Overview
Lake Manyara to the Ngorongoro Crater
This 3-day safari begins in Arusha and takes in Lake Manyara National Park — famous for tree-climbing lions, flamingos and lush groundwater forest — before the highlight, a full game drive in the wildlife-packed Ngorongoro Crater, home to the Big Five. A perfect introduction to Tanzania’s northern circuit.
Day by Day
Your 3-day Manyara & Ngorongoro itinerary
Arusha to Lake Manyara National Park
Depart Arusha and drive to Lake Manyara National Park for an afternoon game drive among elephants, hippos, flamingos and the park’s famous tree-climbing lions. Dinner and overnight.
Lake Manyara to the Ngorongoro highlands
Enjoy more time in Manyara before transferring to the Ngorongoro highlands, with sweeping views over the Great Rift Valley. Dinner and overnight near the crater rim.
Ngorongoro Crater game drive & return to Arusha
Descend into the Ngorongoro Crater for a game drive among lions, elephants, buffalo, rhinos and flamingos, then ascend and return to Arusha in the evening.
What to expect
What’s included & excluded
Included
- Park & conservation area entry fees
- Professional English-speaking driver-guide
- Safari vehicle with a game-viewing roof hatch
- Full-board accommodation (camping or lodge)
- Game drives as per the itinerary
- Drinking water during game drives
Not included
- International flights & airport transfers
- Tanzania visa and travel insurance
- Personal items, drinks & tips
- Optional activities (balloon safari, cultural visits)
- Anything not listed under “Included”
Why book with us
Why travellers choose Nairobi Tour Promoters
Local experts
A Nairobi-based team running Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda & Rwanda safaris for years.
Honest budget pricing
Affordable camping & lodge options with no hidden costs.
Expert guides
Professional driver-guides who know where the wildlife is.
Good to know
Frequently asked questions
Why is Lake Manyara famous?
Lake Manyara is known for its tree-climbing lions, huge flocks of flamingos, large elephant and hippo populations, and a lush groundwater forest teeming with birdlife.
Will I see the Big Five in the Ngorongoro Crater?
The Ngorongoro Crater is one of the few places you have a chance of seeing all of the Big Five in a single day, including the endangered black rhino.
Where does this safari begin?
It starts and ends in Arusha, Tanzania's northern safari hub, with transfers available from Kilimanjaro International Airport.