3 Day Big Five Safari to Serengeti & Ngorongoro Crater
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About this experience
A 3-day Group Camping safari to Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro Crater offers an exceptional wildlife experience by bringing together two of Africa’s most celebrated destinations in a short yet rewarding journey. Within just a few days, travelers explore the vast Serengeti plains, renowned for the Great Migration, abundant wildlife, and thrilling predator sightings, before descending into the Ngorongoro Crater—one of the world’s most remarkable natural landscapes. Often referred to as the “Eighth Wonder of the World,” the crater shelters thousands of animals within its unique ecosystem. This perfect combination of expansive savannahs and a wildlife-rich caldera provide outstanding opportunities to encounter the Big Five and discover Tanzania’s natural beauty in a truly memorable way.
Available options
3 Day Big Five Safari to Serengeti & Ngorongoro Crater
Pickup included
What's included
Three meals per day on safari Bottled drinking water throughout the tour
Transportation in a 4×4 Toyota Land cruiser with pop-up roof throughout the safari
All mentioned activities as per itinerary Safari certificates
Pickup from and drop off at your hotel in Arusha
Camping equipment like table, chairs, etc.
Overnight stays in tents and Sleeping tents Sleeping mattresses
Professional and Experienced safari driver-guide All national park entry fees and camping fees
Detailed itinerary
1
Your adventure begins with an early morning pick-up from Arusha. Travel through the scenic Great Rift Valley and lush Ngorongoro Highlands, stopping at Mto wa Mbu for a brief cultural insight into village life and a chance to taste local produce. Continue your journey with a picnic lunch en route, then arrive at Naabi Hill Gate, the entry point to Serengeti National Park. Embark on your first thrilling game drive, spotting elephants, giraffes, lions, zebras, and antelopes roaming freely across the iconic plains. In the evening, unwind at your lodge, tented camp savoring dinner under the glittering Serengeti night sky.
2
Stop 2
After breakfast, continue with game viewing in Serengeti before departing the park and driving towards the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Arrive in the afternoon and enjoy scenic views of the crater highlands as you settle in for the evening.
3
Stop 3
After an early breakfast, descend into the Ngorongoro Crater for a memorable game drive. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to an incredible concentration of wildlife, including lions, elephants, buffaloes, hippos, flamingos, and the rare black rhino. After a picnic lunch inside the crater, ascend and begin the drive back to Arusha, arriving in the late afternoon.
What's not included
Travel, accident, and medical insurance
Tips and gratuities for driver-guide and chef
Available languages
Guide guide
DE
JA
EN
ZH-CN
IT
FR
ES
Important information
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Specialized infant seats are available
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
About Arusha
Arusha is a vibrant city nestled at the foot of Mount Meru in northern Tanzania. Known as the gateway to some of Africa's most famous national parks, including Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater, it offers a blend of urban amenities and natural wonders. The city is also a cultural melting pot, with a mix of African, Arab, and European influences.
Top Attractions
Mount Meru
Mount Meru is an active volcano and the second-highest peak in Tanzania. It offers challenging treks and stunning views.
Nature
2-3 days for trekking
Moderate
Arusha National Park
This compact park offers a variety of landscapes, including mountains, forests, and lakes. It's a great place for wildlife viewing and outdoor activities.
Nature
Half day to full day
Moderate
Serengeti National Park
One of the most famous national parks in the world, the Serengeti is known for its annual wildebeest migration and abundant wildlife.
Nature
Full day to multi-day safari
Expensive
Ngorongoro Conservation Area
This UNESCO World Heritage Site is known for its Ngorongoro Crater, a natural amphitheater filled with wildlife.
Nature
Full day to multi-day safari
Expensive
Tarangire National Park
Known for its large elephant herds and ancient baobab trees, Tarangire offers a unique safari experience.
Nature
Full day
Moderate
Arusha Cultural Heritage Centre
This center showcases the rich cultural heritage of Tanzania, with a focus on the Maasai and other local tribes.
Cultural
1-2 hours
Low
Must-Try Local Dishes
Ugali
A thick porridge made from cornmeal, often served with stews or sauces.
Staple food
Vegetarian
Nyama Choma
Grilled meat, often served with kachumbari (a tomato and onion salad).
Main dish
Contains meat
Pilau
A spiced rice dish cooked with meat and vegetables.
Main dish
Contains meat
Mandazi
Sweet fried dough, often served with tea.
Snack
Vegetarian
Popular Activities
Trekking Mount Meru
Safari in Serengeti National Park
Hot air balloon safari in Serengeti
Visit Lake Momella
Coffee tasting at local cafes
Spa treatments at luxury hotels
Visit Arusha Cultural Heritage Centre
Cultural tour of Mto wa Mbu
Best Time to Visit
June to October
This is the dry season, offering the best wildlife viewing conditions. The weather is warm and sunny, making it ideal for safaris and outdoor activities.
15-25°C
59-77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Swahili, English
- Widely spoken: Swahili, English, Maasai
- English: Widely spoken in tourist areas, moderately spoken elsewhere
Currency
Tanzanian Shilling (TZS)
Time Zone
GMT+3
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe with exercise of caution
Arusha is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and scams can occur. Exercise caution, especially at night and in crowded areas.
Important Precautions:
- • Be cautious of strangers offering help or services
- • Use reputable tour operators and guides
- • Avoid displaying valuables in public
Getting there
By air
- Arusha Airport • 4 km from city center
- Kilimanjaro International Airport • 45 km from Arusha
By bus
Arusha Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
Daladala are minibuses that are the primary mode of public transport in Arusha. They are affordable but can be crowded.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Bolt
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Downtown Arusha
Themi
Ngurdoto
Day trips
Lake Manyara National Park
126 km from Arusha • Full day
Known for its diverse landscapes and abundant wildlife, including tree-climbing lions and large flocks of flamingos.
Mount Kilimanjaro
70 km from Arusha • Multi-day trek
The highest peak in Africa, offering challenging treks and breathtaking views.
Mto wa Mbu
30 km from Arusha • Half day
A vibrant village known for its cultural diversity and traditional markets.
Festivals
Arusha International Film Festival • July
Maasai Cultural Festival • Varies, typically during the dry season
Arusha Festival of Lights • December
Pro tips
- Book tours and accommodations in advance, especially during peak seasons
- Hire a reputable guide for trekking and safaris
- Learn a few basic Swahili phrases to enhance your cultural experience
- Carry small denominations for markets and tipping
- Dress modestly and respect local customs and traditions
$790
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
