3 Days Tanzania Big Five Safari Overview
This 3-day Tanzania Big Five Safari is a perfect short wildlife tour designed for travelers with limited time who still want to experience the thrill of African safari and witness the legendary Big Five: lion, elephant, buffalo, rhino, and leopard. Starting and ending in Arusha, this itinerary takes you through two of Tanzania’s most iconic safari destinations: Lake Manyara or Tarangire National Park and the Ngorongoro Crater.
Expect breathtaking scenery, close wildlife encounters, and excellent photographic opportunities as you explore the most accessible parts of the Northern Tanzania safari circuit in just three days.
Tour Highlights
Opportunity to spot the Big Five in just 3 days
Game drives in Ngorongoro Crater — the best place to see black rhinos
Explore either Lake Manyara or Tarangire National Park (seasonal option)
Stunning landscapes, baobab trees, flamingos, and tree-climbing lions
Accommodation in comfortable lodges or mid-range tented camps
Ideal short safari for business travelers, volunteers, or weekend getaways
3 Days Tanzania Big 5 Safari Day-by-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Arusha to Tarangire or Lake Manyara National Park
Your safari begins with pickup from Arusha in the morning. Depending on the season and your preference, you’ll visit either:
Tarangire National Park, famous for its ancient baobabs and large elephant herds during the dry season
orLake Manyara National Park, known for its lush groundwater forest, flamingo-lined lake, and tree-climbing lions
Enjoy a full-day game drive followed by dinner and overnight at a lodge or camp in Karatu.
Meals: Lunch & Dinner
Overnight: Lodge/Camp in Karatu
Day 2: Ngorongoro Crater Game Drive
After an early breakfast, descend into the Ngorongoro Crater, one of the world’s largest intact volcanic calderas and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The crater floor hosts a rich variety of wildlife including lions, hippos, elephants, buffaloes, and possibly endangered black rhinos.
Enjoy a half-day crater tour followed by a picnic lunch at a scenic spot near the hippo pool. Later, ascend the crater and return to your lodge in Karatu.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight: Lodge/Camp in Karatu
Day 3: Return to Arusha – Optional Cultural Stop
After breakfast, begin your return journey to Arusha with an optional cultural visit to a Maasai village or local market along the way (time permitting). Arrive in Arusha by early afternoon and transfer to the airport or your hotel.
Meals: Breakfast
Short Important Information
Duration: 3 Days / 2 Nights
Destinations: Lake Manyara or Tarangire, Ngorongoro Crater
Start/End: Arusha
Best Time: Year-round (dry season for best game viewing: June–October)
Accommodation: Mid-range lodges or tented camps
Included: All park fees, accommodation, meals, transport in 4×4 vehicle, guide, crater service
Excluded: Tips, personal expenses, travel insurance, visa, optional cultural visits
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I choose between Lake Manyara and Tarangire?
Yes. Tarangire is recommended during the dry season (June–October) for elephants and general wildlife, while Lake Manyara is better for scenic views and birdlife.Will I see all the Big Five on this safari?
There’s a good chance, especially for lions, elephants, buffalo, and leopards. Black rhinos may be seen in the Ngorongoro Crater, though they are elusive.Is this safari suitable for families or first-time visitors?
Absolutely. It’s a great short safari, perfect for first-time travelers, couples, families, or those on business trips.What type of vehicle is used for game drives?
A 4×4 Land Cruiser with a pop-up roof for optimal wildlife viewing and photography.Are vegetarian or special meals available?
Yes, dietary requirements can be accommodated with prior notice.What should I pack for a 3-day safari?
Bring light layers, a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, comfortable shoes, and a camera with extra batteries or memory cards.
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Price Includeds
Park entry fees and government taxes
Private 4×4 safari vehicle with a pop-up roof
Professional English-speaking driver-guide
Full-board accommodation during the safari
Bottled drinking water during game drives
Airport transfers (arrival and departure)
Price Excludeds
International and domestic flights
Travel insurance and visa fees
Tips for the guide and lodge staff
Alcoholic and soft drinks at lodges
Personal expenses (e.g. souvenirs, laundry)
Optional activities (e.g. balloon safari, Maasai village visit)