The perfect 3 day Tanzania safari awaits! From the sweeping savannahs of the Serengeti to the breathtaking Ngorongoro Crater, experience Tanzania’s most iconic parks and spot the Big Five in their natural habitat.
With international arrivals soaring by an impressive 49% in the first half of 2024, Tanzania is leading Africa’s tourism resurgence. I’ve done safaris in both Kenya and Tanzania. Here is my guide to the best 3 day Tanzania safari, including where to stay, what to expect and how much it will cost.
This post may contain affiliate links. That means, if you make a purchase, I may receive a small commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, read my disclaimer.
Where to stay in Tanzania
The main entry point to Tanzania is usually Arusha. Known as the ‘safari capital’ of Tanzania, Arusha is a lively city that’s the gateway to Tanzania’s iconic parks, including the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater.
Best budget accommodation in Arusha
The superb Mufasa City Hostel and Apartments has clean and spacious rooms. Guests like the friendly staff, on-site restaurant and laundry facilities. The convenient location gives you easy access to city attractions.
Swahili Villa is another exceptional property with a garden, terrace and bar. Guests enjoy the cozy and clean rooms, welcoming host and delicious meals.
Banana Farm Eco Hostel is a superb eco-friendly hostel 30 minutes out of the city. Guests love its eco-farm garden, cottages and barn cabins, excellent food and the scenic beauty.
Explore the map below to find the best accommodation deals in Arusha for your dates:
Where to stay during your safari
Your 3-day safari accommodation is typically included in your package price. For Serengeti nights, budget safaris use public camping sites with shared facilities, mid-range safaris provide safari lodges or permanent tented camps, whilst luxury safaris offer premium lodges with full amenities.
Introduction to your 3 Day Tanzania safari itinerary
A 3 day Tanzania safari is the perfect introduction to East Africa’s wildlife wonders. In three days, you’ll experience two of Africa’s most famous parks: Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro Crater.
This duration offers a budget-friendly option that’s more affordable than longer safaris while covering the main highlights.
Here is the day-by-day itinerary:
Day 1: Arusha to Serengeti National Park
Morning (6:00 AM – 12:00 PM) Your 3 day Tanzania safari begins with an early departure from Arusha, known as the ‘safari capital’ of Tanzania. The drive to the Serengeti takes about 6-7 hours, passing through the stunning Ngorongoro Conservation Area with incredible scenery along the way.
Afternoon (12:00 PM – 6:00 PM) Arrive in the Serengeti for your first game drive. The central Serengeti offers excellent wildlife viewing year-round, with opportunities to spot lions, cheetahs, elephants, and vast herds of wildebeest and zebras.
Evening Overnight at a safari camp or lodge within the Serengeti, falling asleep to the sounds of the African wilderness.
Book your place on a 3 day safari of the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater here.
Day 2: Serengeti National Park full day
Morning (6:00 AM – 12:00 PM) Wake up to the sounds of the African bush and enjoy a full morning game drive in the Serengeti. The morning hours are prime time for wildlife activity, with predators often active and herds on the move.
Afternoon (12:00 PM – 6:00 PM) After lunch, continue exploring the vast Serengeti plains. You’ll have opportunities to spot different wildlife as animals become active again in the cooler afternoon temperatures. The golden hour provides incredible photography opportunities.
Evening Second night camping in the Serengeti, with another chance to experience the magical African night sky.
Don’t miss out – reserve your place now on a 3 day Tanzania safari here.
Day 3: Ngorongoro Crater and return to Arusha
Morning (6:00 AM – 12:00 PM): Ngorongoro Crater Game Drive Standing on the rim of the Ngorongoro Crater, I felt like I was staring into another world. After breakfast, depart for the Ngorongoro Crater and descend into this UNESCO World Heritage Site – often called “Africa’s Eden” – for incredible wildlife viewing in a compact area.
Game drives here offer the chance to see lions, elephants, and even the elusive black rhino. It’s like stepping into a real-life Eden. The crater floor hosts an incredible concentration of wildlife, making it perfect for your final safari day.
Afternoon (12:00 PM – 7:00 PM) After lunch and final game viewing, begin your journey back to Arusha, arriving by early evening with memories to last a lifetime.
Reserve your place on a 3 day safari of the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater here.
The best time of year for a 3 day Tanzania safari
Peak season (June – October) is best for wildlife viewing and hot air balloon safaris, offering dry season weather with excellent game viewing. However, you’ll encounter higher tourist numbers but better wildlife concentration during this time.
Shoulder season (January – March) provides great opportunities for the Great Migration calving season with fewer crowds. The weather features a short dry season with occasional rains, and you’ll witness the calving season in southern Serengeti from January to March.
Green season (April – May, November) is ideal for budget travellers and bird watching enthusiasts. The rainy season creates lush landscapes, though some roads may be challenging and there are fewer tourists around.
For most 3 day Tanzania safari experiences, June to October has the most reliable weather and wildlife viewing opportunities.
How much does a 3 day Tanzania safari cost?
Budget safaris typically cost £420-480 per person and include camping accommodation with group tours. Mid-range safaris range from £600-960 per person and feature lodge accommodation with smaller groups. Luxury safaris exceed £960 per person and provide premium lodges with private vehicles.
What’s typically included in your base safari package is transportation in a safari vehicle, a professional English-speaking guide, park entrance fees, accommodation in tents or lodges, most meals, game drives, and camping equipment with sleeping bags.
Important optional add-ons that are not included in the base price include hot air balloon safaris costing £400-480 per person, alcoholic beverages, travel insurance, tips and gratuities, and airport transfers which may incur extra cost from some locations.
You can pre-book online to secure your preferred dates or book in Arusha for more flexibility (though availability is limited during peak season). Look for licensed operators with experienced guides and clear pricing. To save money, consider booking group tours, travelling during shoulder seasons, and choosing budget camping accommodation.
Don’t miss out – reserve your place now on a 3 day Tanzania safari here.
Hot Air Balloon Safari – an optional add-on
This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience to have a breathtaking perspective of Tanzania’s iconic landscapes. Imagine floating silently above the savannah at sunrise, as the golden light unveils herds of wildebeests, zebras and elephants below.
My experience on a Serengeti hot air balloon safari
The next morning began with a 4am start for our Serengeti hot air balloon safari. As someone who doesn’t function well before sunrise, I questioned my life choices as we trudged sleepily onto the field. That feeling quickly melted away when I saw the balloons being inflated.
Once we were airborne, the world changed. It felt like being in a dream—smooth, serene and unbelievably quiet, interrupted only by the occasional whoosh of the burner.
Below us, the Serengeti came alive: herds of gazelles darted across the plains and a lone hyena prowled for breakfast. I wasn’t expecting the balloon to fly so close to the ground at times. It was amazing to get such an intimate view of the animals. At one point, we swooped low over a pond and spotted crocodiles lounging by the water and hippos emerging from their slumber. Higher up, we could see the cracks and scars of the land.
After an hour it was time to descend the Serengeti hot air balloon. We floated gracefully towards the ground and landed with barely a bump. Pretty much perfect.
When the ride ended, we celebrated with champagne and a decadent breakfast under the open sky. Sitting there with the sun warming my face and a plate of fresh fruit and pastries in front of me, I felt like I’d already had a full day’s adventure—and it wasn’t even 9am.
Cost: £400-480 per person (not included in basic safari price)
Don’t miss out – book your Serengeti hot air balloon sunrise trip.
Beyond your 3 day Tanzania safari
After all the excitement of your safari, you might want to head to Zanzibar for a bit of downtime. The white-sand beaches and turquoise waters are exactly what you need to unwind. Plus, the island’s fascinating culture and spice tours add a unique touch to your stay.
Essential packing list for a 3 day Tanzania safari
For clothing, pack lightweight layers for varying temperatures, neutral-coloured clothing in khaki, brown, or green, a warm jacket for early morning game drives, comfortable walking shoes, plus a hat and sunglasses for sun protection.
Essential safari items include sunscreen with high SPF, insect repellent, a camera with extra batteries and memory cards, binoculars for wildlife viewing, and a power bank for device charging.
Don’t forget health and safety items such as a first aid kit, personal medications, hand sanitiser, and a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated throughout your adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions About 3 Day Tanzania Safari
Is 3 days enough for a Tanzania safari?
Yes, 3 days is perfect for experiencing Tanzania’s highlights! You’ll visit two of Africa’s most famous parks (Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater), enjoy diverse wildlife viewing, and have time for special experiences like hot air balloon safaris. It’s ideal for first-time visitors or those with limited time.
Do I need malaria protection for a 3 day Tanzania safari?
Yes, malaria protection is essential for Tanzania safaris. Consult your doctor about antimalarial medication before travel. Also pack insect repellent, long sleeves for evenings, and consider permethrin-treated clothing. The risk is present year-round in safari areas.
How physically demanding is a 3 day Tanzania safari?
A 3 day Tanzania safari is not physically demanding. Most time is spent in safari vehicles with comfortable seating. The main physical activities are getting in/out of vehicles and short walks at accommodation. The hot air balloon safari requires climbing into a basket but is manageable for most fitness levels.
Final thoughts on the best 3 day Tanzania safari
Tanzania has a way of capturing your heart. From gazing into the Ngorongoro Crater, to watching a pride of lions on the hunt, or witnessing the vast herds of the Serengeti, each moment of your 3 day Tanzania safari will be unforgettable.
If you’re looking for a destination that combines adventure, wildlife and stunning landscapes in a short timeframe, a 3 day Tanzania safari should be at the top of your list. Pack your sense of wonder and prepare for a journey you’ll be talking about for years to come
Next up, read about all the relaxing things to do on Tanzania’s neighbouring island of Zanzibar.
No Comments Yet