- Seguku Katale. Kampala
4 Days Lake Manyara NP,Serengeti NP and Ngorongoro Crater Safari
Tanzania is renowned as one of Africa’s top safari destinations, offering breathtaking landscapes and some of the continent’s most iconic wildlife experiences. This 4-day safari takes you on an unforgettable journey through three of the country’s most famous national parks—Lake Manyara National Park, the Serengeti, and the Ngorongoro Crater. From tree-climbing lions and vast savannahs to the dramatic caldera teeming with wildlife, you’ll witness the magic of Africa’s natural beauty and encounter its incredible wildlife, including the Big Five.
This safari promises a well-rounded experience that captures the essence of Tanzania’s wild landscapes, making it perfect for first-time visitors or seasoned safari enthusiasts.
Day 1: Arrival in Arusha and Transfer to Lake Manyara National Park
Your adventure begins with an early morning pick-up from your hotel in Arusha, Tanzania’s safari hub. After a short briefing about the exciting days ahead, you’ll depart for Lake Manyara National Park, a 2-3 hour scenic drive from Arusha. Known for its stunning beauty and diverse wildlife, Lake Manyara is a small but picturesque park located at the base of the Great Rift Valley escarpment.
Upon arrival, you’ll embark on an afternoon game drive through the park’s varied landscapes. The park is famous for its tree-climbing lions, which are often seen lounging in the acacia trees, as well as large herds of elephants, giraffes, and buffaloes. The alkaline Lake Manyara is also home to thousands of flamingos and other bird species, making it a paradise for birdwatchers. Keep your eyes peeled for hippos, baboons, and playful blue monkeys along the shoreline.
As the day comes to a close, you’ll head to your lodge or tented camp for dinner and an overnight stay, surrounded by the tranquil sounds of the African wilderness.
Accommodation Options:
- Luxury: Lake Manyara Serena Lodge, Escarpment Luxury Lodge
- Midrange: Lake Manyara Wildlife Lodge, Kirurumu Manyara Tented Lodge
- Budget: Migunga Forest Camp, Twiga Campsite
Highlights:
- Scenic drive from Arusha to Lake Manyara National Park
- Afternoon game drive with sightings of elephants, flamingos, and tree-climbing lions
- Overnight stay at a lodge or tented camp near Lake Manyara
Day 2: Transfer to Serengeti National Park and Afternoon Game Drive
After breakfast, you’ll depart Lake Manyara and begin the journey to Serengeti National Park, one of Africa’s most iconic safari destinations. The drive takes you through the beautiful Ngorongoro Conservation Area, offering breathtaking views of the Ngorongoro Crater before descending onto the vast plains of the Serengeti.(Tanzania Safari)
The Serengeti is famed for its endless golden savannahs and as the stage for the Great Migration, one of the world’s most spectacular wildlife events. Depending on the season, you may witness the awe-inspiring sight of millions of wildebeests, zebras, and gazelles moving in search of greener pastures, closely followed by predators such as lions, cheetahs, and hyenas.
Upon arrival, you’ll embark on an afternoon game drive, offering your first opportunity to explore the park’s vast landscapes and encounter its abundant wildlife. The Big Five—lions, leopards, elephants, buffaloes, and rhinos—are often spotted here, along with cheetahs, giraffes, hippos, and a wide variety of bird species.(Tanzania Safari)
As the sun sets over the Serengeti, you’ll make your way to your lodge or tented camp for a relaxing evening under the stars.
Accommodation Options:
- Luxury: Four Seasons Serengeti Lodge, Serengeti Serena Safari Lodge
- Midrange: Kati Kati Tented Camp, Serengeti Sopa Lodge
- Budget: Seronera Campsites, Nyani Campsite
Highlights:
- Scenic drive from Lake Manyara to Serengeti National Park via Ngorongoro Conservation Area
- Afternoon game drive with opportunities to spot the Big Five and the Great Migration (seasonal)
- Overnight stay at a lodge or tented camp in the heart of the Serengeti
Day 3: Full Day Safari in Serengeti National Park
On the third day of your safari, you’ll rise early for a full day of game drives in Serengeti National Park. The day begins with an early morning game drive, one of the best times to spot predators like lions, leopards, and cheetahs as they are most active during the cooler morning hours.
As you drive deeper into the Serengeti’s vast plains, you’ll encounter herds of zebras, wildebeests, and giraffes, as well as elephants and buffaloes grazing on the grasslands. If your visit coincides with the Great Migration, you may witness dramatic river crossings or predator-prey interactions as the herds move across the park in search of fresh grazing grounds.
In the afternoon, you’ll stop for a picnic lunch at one of the Serengeti’s scenic viewpoints, where you can relax and enjoy the stunning surroundings. After lunch, continue your game drive, exploring different regions of the park and tracking more wildlife. Your expert guide will help you spot and identify the animals while sharing fascinating insights into their behavior and the Serengeti’s unique ecosystem.
As the day comes to a close, you’ll return to your lodge or camp for dinner and an overnight stay.
Highlights:
- Early morning game drive to spot predators such as lions, leopards, and cheetahs
- Full-day exploration of the Serengeti’s wildlife-rich plains
- Picnic lunch amidst the stunning landscapes of the Serengeti
- Opportunities to witness the Great Migration (seasonal)
Day 4: Ngorongoro Crater Safari and Return to Arusha
Your final day of the safari starts with an early morning drive to the Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the world’s largest intact volcanic calderas. Formed millions of years ago, the crater is home to an extraordinary concentration of wildlife, making it one of the best places in Africa to spot the Big Five.(Tanzania Safari)
Upon arrival, you’ll descend 600 meters into the crater for a half-day game drive. The crater’s lush floor is teeming with wildlife, including lions, rhinos, elephants, buffaloes, and hippos. The permanent water sources within the crater attract large herds of animals, making it a prime location for predator-prey interactions. Flamingos and other waterbirds flock to Lake Magadi, while the Lerai Forest is a favorite haunt for elephants.
After an exhilarating morning of wildlife viewing, you’ll enjoy a picnic lunch near one of the crater’s scenic spots. In the afternoon, you’ll ascend from the crater and begin your journey back to Arusha, with an optional stop at local craft markets along the way to purchase souvenirs or interact with local artisans.
Upon arrival in Arusha, you’ll be transferred to your hotel or the airport for your onward journey, marking the end of your unforgettable 4-day safari adventure.(Tanzania Safari)
Highlights:
- Early morning descent into the Ngorongoro Crater for a half-day game drive
- Opportunities to spot the Big Five and other wildlife within the crater
- Picnic lunch in the heart of the Ngorongoro Crater
- Return journey to Arusha with optional cultural stops
FAQs
When is the best time to visit these parks?
The best time to visit Lake Manyara, Serengeti, and Ngorongoro Crater is during the dry season, from June to October. This is also the peak season for the Great Migration in the Serengeti. However, the parks can be visited year-round, with the green season (November to May) offering lush landscapes and fewer tourists.
What wildlife can I expect to see on this safari?
You’ll have the chance to see the Big Five (lions, leopards, elephants, buffaloes, and rhinos) as well as a variety of other wildlife, including cheetahs, giraffes, hippos, zebras, wildebeests, and flamingos. Depending on the season, you may also witness the Great Migration in the Serengeti.
What should I pack for the safari?
Pack lightweight, breathable clothing in neutral colors, comfortable walking shoes, a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a camera with extra batteries. Evenings and mornings can be cool, so bring a warm jacket. Binoculars are also recommended for better wildlife viewing.
Is this safari suitable for families?
Yes, this safari is suitable for families. However, it’s important to check with your tour operator for specific age requirements for children, particularly for younger kids participating in game drives.
What accommodation options are available during this safari?
This safari offers a range of accommodation options, from luxury lodges like the Four Seasons Serengeti and Lake Manyara Serena Lodge to more midrange and budget-friendly camps such as Kati Kati Tented Camp and Seronera Campsites. All accommodations provide comfortable amenities and are located within or near the parks for easy access to game drives.
Can I take photos during the safari?
Yes, photography is encouraged during the safari, and you’ll have plenty of opportunities to capture stunning wildlife and landscapes. However, be mindful of using flash photography, as it can startle the animals. Make sure to bring extra memory cards and batteries for your camera.
This 4 Days Lake Manyara, Serengeti, and Ngorongoro Crater Safari offers a thrilling opportunity to explore three of Tanzania’s most iconic national parks. From tree-climbing lions in Lake Manyara to the vast plains of the Serengeti and the wildlife-rich Ngorongoro Crater, this safari promises incredible wildlife encounters, breathtaking landscapes, and memories that will last a lifetime. Whether you’re a first-time safari-goer or a seasoned traveler, this tour provides the perfect snapshot of Tanzania’s unparalleled natural beauty.(Tanzania Safari)
