3 Day Tanzania Safari from Arusha (Drive-In)
Tarangire • Ngorongoro • Lake Manyara • Private 4×4 & expert guide
3 Day Tanzania Safari from Arusha (Drive-In)
3 Day Tanzania Safari from Arusha is designed for travelers who want the biggest wildlife return in a short window. You’ll cover three distinct ecosystems in one seamless loop: elephant-rich Tarangire, the Big Five in the Ngorongoro Crater, and the groundwater forests and lakeshore birdlife of Lake Manyara.
Because pace matters, we use efficient routing, well-timed park entries, and lodges close to the action. As a result, you’ll spend your prime hours on game drives rather than on long transfers. For live price ranges by season and lodge level, check our 2–13 Day Safari Cost Guide.
Lodges in your quote are examples. Final selection matches your dates, style, and availability. Rates vary by green/shoulder/peak months and room type.
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Arusha → Tarangire – Elephants & Baobabs
Meet your Hazina Afrika guide after breakfast and drive to Tarangire National Park (approx. 2.5–3 hours). The Tarangire River sustains wildlife through the dry season, concentrating elephant families, buffalo, giraffe, and a lively mix of plains game. With giant baobabs as a backdrop, you’ll work river loops and woodlands for predators in golden light.
- Private 4×4 with pop-top roof; unhurried game drive along the Tarangire River
- Picnic lunch at a scenic site or lodge lunch (by routing)
- Late-afternoon drive as temperatures cool and animals gather
- Evening transfer to your lodge in Tarangire / Karatu area
Day 2: Ngorongoro Crater – Big Five in a Natural Amphitheater
Start early for the Ngorongoro Crater rim and descend onto the floor as the light breaks. The caldera concentrates wildlife like nowhere else: zebra herds under volcanic walls, lions near marsh edges, heavily horned buffalo, and a rare chance of black rhino. After a bush picnic at Ngoitoktok, continue your loop through Lerai Forest and open grasslands before returning to your lodge.
- Sunrise crater descent for prime predator and rhino viewing
- Full circuit of key habitats: grassland, swamps, Lerai woodland
- Picnic at a hippo pool with wide crater scenery
- Return to Karatu area for dinner and overnight
Day 3: Lake Manyara → Arusha – Forest Giants & Rift Views
Drive to Lake Manyara National Park for a diverse finale: groundwater forests alive with blue monkeys and hornbills, floodplains dotted with giraffe and zebra, and—when conditions align—pink swathes of flamingos on the alkaline lake. With some luck, you might glimpse the park’s renowned tree-climbing lions. Exit mid-afternoon and return to Arusha for your evening plans.
- Morning game drive through forest, floodplains, and lakeshore
- Look for hippos, elephants, baboon troops, and abundant birdlife
- Scenic picnic with views of the Great Rift escarpment
- Afternoon drive back to Arusha (approx. 2–2.5 hours)
Roads & Logistics
This itinerary is fully drive-in using a private, specially equipped 4×4 with a pop-top roof, charging points, and a fridge. Typical road timings: Arusha→Tarangire ~2.5–3 hrs; Karatu→Crater gate ~45–60 min; Karatu→Manyara gate ~45 min; Manyara→Arusha ~2–2.5 hrs. We tune departures to wildlife rhythms and your preferences.
Considering budget or seasons? Review live ranges and lodge levels in our 2–13 Day Safari Cost Guide, then request a tailored quote.
What’s Included
Included
- Private 4×4 with pop-top roof & pro driver-guide
- All park & crater fees
- Full-board lodges/camps on safari nights
- Drinking water in the vehicle
Not Included
- International flights & visas
- Some drinks & personal expenses
- Travel insurance (recommended)
- Optional activities (e.g., Maasai village visits)
Good to Know
- Flexible pacing (split drives or full-day options)
- Seasonal lodge availability may affect final routing
- Family-friendly options available on request
Extend Your Tanzania Safari
Frequently Asked Questions
How long are the drives on this 3-day safari?
Arusha→Tarangire ~2.5–3 hrs; Karatu→Crater gate ~45–60 min; Karatu→Manyara gate ~45 min; Manyara→Arusha ~2–2.5 hrs. Timings vary by season and sightings.
Is 3 days enough for a Tanzania safari?
Yes for highlights—Tarangire elephants, Ngorongoro Big Five, and Manyara birdlife. If you want sunrise/sunset time on the Serengeti plains, extend to our 5 Day or 8 Day options.
What vehicle is used?
A private 4×4 Land Cruiser (or similar) with a pop-top roof, charging points, and a fridge—ideal for comfort and photography.
Can families do this itinerary?
Absolutely. We tailor pacing, mealtimes, and lodge choices for families. Child policies vary by lodge—your quote will specify details.
How do I estimate the cost?
Costs depend on season, lodge level, and availability. See real-world ranges in our 2–13 Day Safari Cost Guide, then request a custom quote.
Big Cats
Cultural Experiences
Big Five
Finest Accommodation
Game Drive
How To Book
Share your dates, group size, and preferred lodge style. We confirm flight schedules and place temporary holds on rooms. A deposit, usually 30 to 40 percent, secures flights and accommodation. The balance is due 60 to 45 days before arrival. We send a pre departure pack with packing list and contacts.
Pricing Guide
From about USD 2,450 to 3,450 per person for mid range and from about USD 3,450 to 4,750 for deluxe or luxury. Season, flight routing, and camp selection influence the final price. Group size reduces the per person rate.
Details
WHAT'S INCLUDED
- Domestic flights as per itinerary, including air taxes
- Private 4x4 vehicle with professional driver guide
- All park fees and conservation fees listed
- Park entrance fees
- Full board accommodation on safari, bed and breakfast in cities if used
- Bottled drinking water on game drives
- All airstrip and airport transfers
WHAT'S EXCLUDED
- International flights and entry visas
- Premium drinks and extras not stated
- Laundry where not included by the lodge
- Gratuities for guide and camp staff
- Travel insurance and personal purchases
Why Book With Us?
No-hassle best price guarantee
Customer care available 24/7
Hand-picked Tours & Activities
Unforgettable experiences
Book This Tour?
Start your adventure here
Email Us
info@hazinaafrika.com
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+255 769 973884
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