The parks, the wildlife, and the people are fascinating, diverse, and incredibly welcoming. This special 3-day safari is the perfect introduction to Tanzania’s breathtaking landscapes and rich wildlife.
Imagine a colorful world of dense wildlife, set apart from the rest of Africa. Welcome to the Ngorongoro Crater, the largest complete volcanic crater on Earth. We descend into this extraordinary natural amphitheater, home to big cats, elephants, and even shimmering pink flamingoes.
Often described as the prettiest small wildlife park in Africa, Lake Manyara National Park enchants visitors with its vivid scenery—lush acacia forests, the sparkling lake, flamingoes, and the dramatic backdrop of the Great Rift Valley escarpment. Expect the unexpected here, including the park’s famous tree-climbing lions.
For three enriching days, you’ll be immersed in the sounds, colors, and wonders that Tanzania offers all who explore her national parks. Join Collective African Tours & Safaris (CATS) for an easy yet deeply rewarding safari experience.
Itinerary:
Day 1
Arusha – Ngorongoro Conservation Area
Approx. 3½-Hour Drive
Meals: Lunch & Dinner
7:30 am – Your Collective African Tours & Safaris (CATS) driver/guide will pick you up from your hotel or preferred location in Arusha to begin your Tanzanian adventure. Travel in a comfortable 4×4 Land Cruiser Jeep as we head into Maasai country, where you’ll spot these traditional people in colorful attire tending their cattle.
Soon we arrive at the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, a vast volcanic caldera spanning approximately 256 km² (101 sq. miles). From the crater rim, enjoy breathtaking views of the world’s largest intact caldera.
Hold on as we descend the steep crater walls into a world of acacia forest, open grasslands, and marshes—home to over 25,000 animals. Expect incredible sightings of lions, leopards, wildebeest, zebras, elephants, buffalo, hippos, and pink flamingoes.
In the late afternoon, we ascend the crater walls just in time to witness one of Africa’s most spectacular sunsets. We then proceed to our Ngorongoro lodge or tented camp for dinner and relaxation.
Day 2
Ngorongoro – Lake Manyara National Park
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Early risers may enjoy a magical sunrise at the Ngorongoro crater rim before departing for Lake Manyara National Park.
This compact but stunning reserve greets you with striking contrasts—the green acacia forests, the blue lake waters, and the vibrant pink hues of thousands of flamingoes. Ernest Hemingway once called it “the loveliest I had seen in Africa.”
Wildlife here includes giraffes, elephants, warthogs, baboons, and—if luck is on your side—the famous tree-climbing lions resting in the acacia branches.
After a rewarding game drive, we head to our Lake Manyara lodge or tented camp for dinner and an overnight stay.
Day 3
Lake Manyara – Arusha
Approx. 2-Hour Drive
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Lake Manyara is especially beautiful in the early morning, as sunlight filters through the forest and reflects off the lake. Enjoy this serene atmosphere before breakfast.
We’ll enjoy one final game drive in the park, soaking in any last wildlife moments before departing for Arusha. Lunch will be enjoyed along the way.
You’ll be dropped off at your hotel, residence, or the airport in the afternoon.
You’re now true safari travelers—with unforgettable stories and memories to match. From all of us at Collective African Tours & Safaris (CATS), thank you for choosing to explore Tanzania’s remarkable natural world with us. We hope this is just the beginning of your safari journey.
Your Tour Includes
- Transport in a 4×4 Land Cruiser Jeep
- Pick-up and drop-off at your Arusha location
- Services of an experienced English-speaking (or other language) driver/guide
- Bottled drinking water during safari
- Park entrance fees
- Game viewing drives
- All meals as specified in the itinerary
- Government taxes and local levies
- Flying Doctors emergency medical evacuation and rescue insurance
