3 days Ngorongoro Safari

3 days safari in Ngorongoro, touring this massive caldera that is full of wildlife will leave you mesmerised especially if you want a nice short safari coupled with activities and plenty of wildlife to see. The one advantage of Ngorongoro is that there is plenty to do, since it is a conservation area, the Maasai tribal people co-exist with the wild animals which helps in conservation efforts with a close watchful eye of the government and conservation area authority. That is why it is possible to combine cultural tours with your Ngorongoro safari. You can visit the nearby villages like Endulen, and Nainokanoka and mingle with the Maasai people en route to your wildlife safari game drive. You can also include a walking safari to the crater rim and the nearby villages.  Experience the 3-day adventure safari to the iconic Ngorongoro Crater in Tanzania. Nestled within the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, this natural wonder is often referred to as the “Eden of Africa” and is renowned for its incredible concentration of wildlife. As you descend into the Crater, you’ll be greeted by a mesmerizing landscape teeming with diverse habitats, including grassy plains, acacia woodlands, and a picturesque lake. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to an array of wildlife, including the famous Big Five – lions, elephants, buffaloes, leopards, and rhinos. Prepare to be captivated by the sight of these majestic creatures in their natural habitat, as well as the multitude of other species that roam freely in this unique ecosystem. From thrilling game drives to breathtaking views from the Crater rim, every moment in Ngorongoro promises an unforgettable safari experience. NB: This three-day tour to Ngorongoro Conservation Area usually begins in Arusha, but it can also begin in Moshi if you are combining your Kilimanjaro hike with this 3 day short safari. Also if you are on a honeymoon safari, let us know beforehand.

Book this 3-day Ngorongoro Safari

Day by day, 3-day Ngorongoro Safari Itinerary

Day 1: Arusha – Ngorongoro Crater Depart from Arusha in the morning and drive to Ngorongoro Crater.

Day 2: Ngorongoro Crater Descend into the Ngorongoro Crater for a full day of game drives.

Day 3: Ngorongoro – Arusha After breakfast, choose between visiting a Maasai village or going for a nature walk in the forests of Ngorongoro. Drive back to Arusha with stops at Karatu and Mto wa Mbu market towns. End of the safari.

Three days Ngorongoro Safari highlights

• Explore the stunning Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Africa’s natural wonders
• Witness the incredible concentration of wildlife in the crater, including the Big Five (lion, elephant, buffalo, rhino, and leopard)
• Enjoy game drives on the crater floor, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes and diverse ecosystems
• Visit the hippo pool and observe these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat
• Have a chance to interact with the Maasai people and learn about their traditional way of life
• Experience the thrill of spotting a wide variety of wildlife, including zebras, wildebeest, giraffes, hyenas, and more
• Marvel at the panoramic views from the Ngorongoro Crater rim
• Immerse yourself in the rich biodiversity of the region, with opportunities to see rare bird species and unique plant life
• Stay in comfortable lodges or camps that provide a relaxing and authentic safari experience
• Create lifelong memories and capture stunning photographs of the wildlife and landscapes in Ngorongoro Crater.

Did you know: You can also do a 1 day ngorongoro safari, here is the day trip

Combining the 3-day Ngorongoro Crater Safari with other experiences in Tanzania is a great way to make the most of your trip. Here’s how you can combine it with a Mount Kilimanjaro climb and a Zanzibar beach getaway:

Ngorongoro Crater Safari + Mount Kilimanjaro Climb:

After completing the Ngorongoro Crater Safari, you can choose to trek Mount Kilimanjaro thereafter. Depending on your preference and fitness level, you can choose from various routes like the popular Marangu Route, Machame Route, or Lemosho Route. The climb typically takes several days, allowing you to conquer the highest peak in Africa and enjoy breathtaking views along the way. This combination of safari and mountain adventure offers a perfect blend of wildlife exploration and physical challenge. Some of the Ngorongoro and safari combos include:

• 13 Days Mount Kilimanjaro Machame Trek & Safari
• 12 Days Mount Kilimanjaro Marangu Trek & Safari
• 13 Days Mount Kilimanjaro Lemosho Route Trek & Safari
• 10 Days Mount Kilimanjaro Rongai Route Trek & Safari

Ngorongoro Crater Safari + Zanzibar Beach:

Following the Ngorongoro Crater Safari, you can head to Zanzibar, an idyllic island paradise known for its pristine beaches and rich cultural heritage. Relax and unwind on the white sandy shores, swim in the crystal-clear turquoise waters, and indulge in water sports like snorkelling and diving to explore the vibrant marine life. Immerse yourself in the island’s history and culture by visiting Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and exploring the spice plantations. This combination allows you to experience the best of Tanzania’s wildlife and beach destinations, providing a diverse and unforgettable vacation.

By combining the Ngorongoro Crater Safari with either a Mount Kilimanjaro climb or a Zanzibar beach getaway, you can create a comprehensive itinerary that caters to your interests and offers a well-rounded Tanzanian adventure.

Best time for the 3 days Ngorongoro Safari

The best time to do a 3-day Ngorongoro Crater safari is during the dry season, which generally falls between the months of June to October and January to February. During these months, the weather is typically dry and sunny, making it easier to navigate the park and enjoy wildlife sightings.

The dry season is an ideal time for game viewing as animals gather around water sources, including the Ngorongoro Crater’s floor. The vegetation is also less dense, allowing for better visibility of wildlife. Moreover, the risk of rain and muddy roads is lower during this period, ensuring smoother travel experiences.

It’s important to note that the Ngorongoro Crater can be visited year-round, and each season offers its own unique experiences. However, the dry season is generally preferred by visitors due to the favourable weather conditions and increased animal activity.