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Rating score 5.0 of 5

3 Days A Short Northern Circuit Safari

Safari in national parks: Ngorongoro Crater and Serengeti National Park

This 3-day adventure is the perfect introduction to Tanzania’s Northern Circuit—ideal for travelers with limited time who want to experience diverse wildlife, scenic landscapes, and rich ecosystems. From baobab-dotted savannahs to volcanic craters and lush groundwater forests, each day reveals a new natural wonder.

Begin your journey in Tarangire National Park, renowned for its giant elephant herds and ancient baobab trees. Continue to the Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site teeming with the Big Five and other wildlife in a stunning caldera setting.

Conclude your safari with a visit to Lake Manyara National Park, home to tree-climbing lions, flamingos, and a variety of birdlife. With expert guides, scenic drives, and comfortable accommodations, this safari offers a compact but unforgettable taste of Tanzania’s natural beauty.

Trip Highlights

  • Three iconic parks in just 3 days
  • Elephant herds & baobabs in Tarangire
  • Big Five sightings in Ngorongoro Crater
  • Tree-climbing lions in Lake Manyara
  • Family-friendly game drives & picnics
  • Great for short stays or Zanzibar extensions

Trip Features

Start Date

Can start any day

Duration

3 Days

diamond-gem

Challenging

Can be Optimizated

Tour Type

Private Tour

workflow

Tour Plan

Customizable
Itinerary

trolleybus

Transport

Toyota Land Cruiser 4x4

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch
& Dinner

Airport

Kilimanjaro Int.
Airport

Trip Itinerary

Day 1: Arusha – Tarangire National Park

Depart Arusha after breakfast and drive to Tarangire National Park, one of Tanzania’s most scenic parks, known for its large elephant population and towering baobab trees. Enjoy a game drive along the Tarangire River, where herds of wildlife gather. Spot lions, zebras, giraffes, and a variety of birds. After a picnic lunch or hot meal at the lodge, continue with an afternoon game drive. Later, drive to your lodge or camp near Lake Manyara or Karatu for dinner and overnight.

  • Accommodation: Budget, Midrange or Luxury in karatu
  • Meal Plan: Lunch & Dinner

Kudu lodge & campsite

Kudu Lodge & Campsite is a charming boutique retreat nestled in the heart of Karatu, ideal for safari travelers exploring Northern Tanzania. The lodge offers cozy accommodations, serene gardens, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Located just 15 km from the Ngorongoro Crater gate, it provides easy access to nearby national parks. Guests enjoy modern comforts blended with local character and natural beauty. Whether for adventure or relaxation, Kudu Lodge is a perfect stop on your safari journey.

Eileen’s Trees Inn

Eileen’s Trees Inn is a peaceful and welcoming lodge located in the vibrant town of Karatu, ideal for exploring the Northern Safari Circuit. Just 15 km from the Ngorongoro Crater entrance, the inn offers comfort, charm, and personalized hospitality. Surrounded by lush gardens and native trees, it provides a relaxing retreat after a day of adventure. Guests enjoy cozy rooms, fresh local cuisine, and warm service. Eileen’s Trees Inn is a favorite for both nature lovers and safari travelers.

Ngorongoro Coffee Lodge

Ngorongoro Coffee Lodge is a stylish and tranquil retreat set amidst a working coffee plantation in Karatu, perfect for safari travelers. Located just 20 km from the Ngorongoro Crater entrance, the lodge combines rustic elegance with modern comfort. Guests enjoy spacious cottages, fresh farm-to-table cuisine, and scenic views of the highlands. The peaceful setting offers a relaxing break between safari adventures. Ngorongoro Coffee Lodge is an ideal base for exploring Tanzania’s northern wonders.

After an early breakfast, depart from Karatu and descend into the Ngorongoro Crater one of Africa’s most breathtaking natural wonders. Enjoy a full-day game drive on the crater floor, home to an incredible density of wildlife including elephants, lions, rhinos, zebras, and hippos. Along the way, your guide will teach the kids how to spot animal tracks and understand wildlife behavior. Enjoy a scenic picnic lunch near the hippo pool before continuing your exploration. In the late afternoon, ascend the crater walls and return to your lodge in Karatu for a relaxing evening, dinner, and storytelling under the stars.

  • Accommodation: Budget, Midrange or Luxury in Karatu
  • Meal Plan: Break Fast, Lunch and Dinner

Kudu lodge & campsite

Kudu Lodge & Campsite is a charming boutique retreat nestled in the heart of Karatu, ideal for safari travelers exploring Northern Tanzania. The lodge offers cozy accommodations, serene gardens, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Located just 15 km from the Ngorongoro Crater gate, it provides easy access to nearby national parks. Guests enjoy modern comforts blended with local character and natural beauty. Whether for adventure or relaxation, Kudu Lodge is a perfect stop on your safari journey.

Eileen’s Trees Inn

Eileen’s Trees Inn is a peaceful and welcoming lodge located in the vibrant town of Karatu, ideal for exploring the Northern Safari Circuit. Just 15 km from the Ngorongoro Crater entrance, the inn offers comfort, charm, and personalized hospitality. Surrounded by lush gardens and native trees, it provides a relaxing retreat after a day of adventure. Guests enjoy cozy rooms, fresh local cuisine, and warm service. Eileen’s Trees Inn is a favorite for both nature lovers and safari travelers.

Ngorongoro Coffee Lodge

Ngorongoro Coffee Lodge is a stylish and tranquil retreat set amidst a working coffee plantation in Karatu, perfect for safari travelers. Located just 20 km from the Ngorongoro Crater entrance, the lodge combines rustic elegance with modern comfort. Guests enjoy spacious cottages, fresh farm-to-table cuisine, and scenic views of the highlands. The peaceful setting offers a relaxing break between safari adventures. Ngorongoro Coffee Lodge is an ideal base for exploring Tanzania’s northern wonders.

After breakfast, head to Lake Manyara National Park, nestled at the base of the Great Rift Valley escarpment. The park is known for its rich vegetation, groundwater forests, flamingo-filled lake, and elusive tree-climbing lions. Enjoy a morning game drive spotting elephants, monkeys, birds, and more. After lunch, begin the drive back to Arusha, arriving by late afternoon. Drop-off at your hotel or airport marks the end of your quick but wildlife-rich safari adventure.

  • Accommodation:  N/A
  • Meal Plan: Dinner

Trek Cost Include

  • Transport to and from the Parks
  • Allowance for the Crew
  • First Aid Kit and Emergency Oxygen
  • Park Fees and VAT
  • Rescue Support – In case of emergencies within the park, a rescue vehicle is on standby.
  • Accommodation During Safari
  • Airport Pick-up and Drop-off
  • Camping Equipment (if applicable)
  • Daily Meals

Trek Cost Does Not Include

  • Drinks at the Hotel – Beverages before or after the safari at your accommodation.

  • Personal Belongings – We are not responsible for loss or damage to personal items.

  • Tips for the Crew – Gratuities for your driver-guide, cook, or porters are appreciated but not included.

  • Taxi Service – Local transport outside scheduled transfers is not covered.

  • Health Insurance – Please ensure you have valid travel and medical insurance.

  • Flight Tickets – Domestic and international flights are not part of the safari cost.

  • Flying doctor emergency evacuation cover

Gear Add-ons

Enhance Your Day Trip Safari Experience with Optional Gear Add-ons
All equipment is subject to availability. Early booking is recommended.

  • Binoculars – $10 per day
    Get a closer look at wildlife with high-quality binoculars—ideal for spotting birds and distant animals.
  • Safari Blanket – $5 per blanket
    Stay warm during early morning game drives with a soft, cozy safari blanket.
  • Cooler Box with Bottled Drinks – $15 per trip
    Enjoy chilled beverages throughout your safari with a fully stocked cooler box.
  • Photography Bean Bag – $8 per trip
    Perfect for stabilizing your camera while shooting wildlife from the vehicle window.
  • Child Safety Seat – $10 per seat
    Ensure your little ones are safe and comfortable with a professionally fitted car seat.
  • Thermal Lunch Pack – $12 per person
    Upgrade your picnic with a gourmet thermal lunch including hot meals, fresh fruit, and snacks.
  • Portable Power Bank – $5 per day
    Keep your phone or camera charged all day long with a durable, high-capacity power bank.

Our day trip vehicles come equipped with standard safari amenities. If you’d like to enhance comfort during your game drives or picnic stops, optional gear add-ons—such as blankets, binoculars, and gourmet lunch packs—are available at an extra cost as listed above. Early booking is recommended to ensure availability.

Transfers

We offer the following transfer options
  • Kilimanjaro Airport (JRO) to Moshi – $50
  • Moshi to Kilimanjaro Airport (JRO) – $50
  • Arusha to Moshi – $100
  • Moshi to Arusha – $100
All transfers are private and operated by trusted drivers. Pre-booking is recommended.

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Explore Trekking Adventures (ETA) offers expertly guided treks, authentic cultural experiences, and responsible travel. With local knowledge, quality gear, and personalized service, ETA ensures safe, unforgettable journeys across East Africa.

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