3-Day Tarangire, Lake Manyara & Ngorongoro Safari

3 Days 2 Nights

Elephants, Flamingos & the Big Five

This 3-day safari blends three of northern Tanzania's most diverse ecosystems. From elephant herds under Tarangire's baobab trees, to Lake Manyara’s soda shores filled with flamingos, to the volcanic wonder of Ngorongoro Crater where the Big Five roam - each day brings a new perspective on Tanzania's natural heritage. Along the way, we enrich the journey with cultural encounters, ensuring your safari connects not only to wildlife, but also to the people who call these landscapes home.

Highlights

  • Marvel at Tarangire's elephants and ancient baobabs
  • Explore Lake Manyara's flamingos, groundwater forest & Rift escarpment
  • Descend into Ngorongoro Crater for Big Five encounters
  • Enjoy a cultural visit to Mto wa Mbu village markets and farms
  • Travel with JoyTrekking’s expert local guides for authentic insight

Itinerary

  • Day
    One

    Arusha to Lake Manyara National Park

    • Morning departure from Arusha with your JoyTrekking guide, sharing stories of our home region en route.
    • Enter Lake Manyara, driving through lush groundwater forest where baboons, monkeys, and hornbills thrive.
    • Continue to the open plains, keeping an eye out for lions perched in acacia trees.
    • Picnic lunch at a scenic spot overlooking the lake, often shimmering with flamingos.
    • Afternoon game drive exploring hippo pools and savanna grasslands.
    • Evening transfer to a lodge near Ngorongoro. Dinner features local dishes - spiced rice, stews, chapati, and tropical fruit.

  • Day
    Two

    Ngorongoro Crater to Arusha

    • Early breakfast before descending into Ngorongoro Crater, a dramatic volcanic caldera teeming with wildlife.
    • Morning game drive across the crater floor, with high chances of seeing the Big Five - lions, elephants, buffalo, rhinos, and leopards.
    • Visit the hippo pool and soda lake, alive with birdlife and grazing herbivores.
    • Picnic lunch inside the crater with sweeping views of the wildlife plains.
    • Afternoon ascent out of the crater and return drive to Arusha, arriving by early evening.

Cost Includes

  • Professional local safari guide
  • 4x4 safari vehicle with open roof
  • All park entry fees
  • Comfort Hotel
  • Full Board
  • Drinking water during safari
  • Cultural visit to Mto wa Mbu village
  • Airport/hotel transfers (Arusha)

Cost Excludes

  • International flights
  • Travel insurance
  • Personal expenses (souvenirs, drinks beyond water)
  • Tips for guide and lodge staff

Dates

FAQs

How much driving is involved?

About 2.5-4 hours between parks, with game drives en route.

When is the best season for this safari?

June-October offers peak wildlife viewing, though the parks are rewarding year-round.

Will I see the Big Five?

Ngorongoro offers the best chance, though sightings depend on luck and nature.

What kind of lodges are included?

Comfortable mid-range lodges; upgrades to luxury tented camps available.

Is the cultural visit authentic?

Yes, Mto wa Mbu tours are hosted by local residents, ensuring respectful, community-based encounters.

Can this trip be customized?

Absolutely - we can extend nights, adjust routes, or add Zanzibar extensions.