3 Days Tanzania Big 5 Budget Safari: Itinerary, Prices & Tips
Overview of the 3 Days Tanzania Big 5 Budget Safari
Looking for an exciting and affordable way to explore Tanzania’s top national parks? Our 3 Days Tanzania Big 5 Budget Safari is the perfect option. This tour gives you the chance to spot Africa’s Big 5—lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino—while enjoying a well-organized and budget-friendly adventure. This safari is open now and perfect for anyone wanting a short but unforgettable wildlife experience.
This tour includes Tarangire National Park, Ngorongoro Crater, and Lake Manyara National Park. It is among the top-rated 3 days Tanzania safari tours, with excellent reviews and a competitive 3 days Tanzania safari price. Whether you’re coming from Arusha or even from Zanzibar, this itinerary is designed for comfort, excitement, and value.
Why Choose This 3 Days Tanzania Big 5 Budget Safari
- Top-rated 3 days Tanzania safari with excellent reviews
- Affordable 3 days Tanzania safari price with full-board meals and comfortable lodge stays
- Covers three major parks in just three days
- Great option for "3 days Tanzania safari from Zanzibar" with flight arrangements
- Perfect for short holidays and weekend escapes
This tour also fits well with those searching for “3 days Tanzania lodge safari,” “3 day safari Tanzania,” or comparing with “4 days Tanzania safari” options.
Tour Summary
Duration
3 Days
Vehicle Type
4WD Safari
Tour Type
Private
Languages
Any Language
Quick Itinerary Overview
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Duration | 3 Days / 2 Nights |
| From / To | Arusha ↔ Tarangire, Ngorongoro, Lake Manyara |
| Main Parks | Tarangire National Park, Ngorongoro Crater, Lake Manyara NP |
| Highlight | Big Five Safari & Scenic Landscapes |
| Style | Budget Lodge Safari |
| Lodge | Eileen’s Trees Inn – Full Board |
| Best Time | Year-Round (Especially June–October & January–March) |
Tour Itinerary
Day-by-Day Tanzania Safari Itinerary
Day 1:
Arusha to Tarangire National Park
After breakfast at your Arusha hotel, your friendly Seko Tours guide will pick you up for a scenic three-hour drive to Tarangire National Park. Along the way, you’ll pass small towns, local farms, and Maasai villages—offering a glimpse into rural Tanzanian life.
Upon arrival at the park, your game drive begins. Tarangire is known for its massive elephant herds and ancient baobab trees. You might also spot lions lounging under trees, giraffes grazing on acacias, zebras, wildebeests, and various antelope species. Bird lovers will enjoy spotting colorful species like lilac-breasted rollers, hornbills, and storks.
A tasty picnic lunch will be enjoyed at a shaded viewpoint, with wildlife likely close by. In the afternoon, continue your game drive before heading to Karatu for your overnight stay.
This day is ideal for travelers searching for “3 days Tanzania safari open now” or looking to book “online appointments 3 days Tanzania safari” experiences.
DAY ACTIVITIES
- Tarangire Game Drive
Tarangire National Park Photos
OVERNIGHT & MEAL PLAN
- Location: Karatu
- Room Type: Standard
- Meal Plan: FB – Dinner, Breakfast and Lunch
- It's Reviews: TripAdvisor Reviews
Pro Tip from Seko Tours Adventures:
Tarangire National Park is a wildlife-rich gem, known for its large elephant herds, ancient baobab trees, and seasonal water sources that attract diverse animals.
It hosts four of the Big Five: elephants, lions, leopards, and buffaloes—but not rhinos. Other wildlife includes cheetahs, giraffes, zebras, wildebeests, and unique species like the fringe-eared oryx and gerenuk.
With fewer crowds, Tarangire offers a peaceful safari experience with stunning landscapes and exceptional game viewing.
Day 2:
Full-Day Game Drive in Ngorongoro Crater
Today is all about the breathtaking Ngorongoro Crater. After an early breakfast, you’ll drive to the crater gate and descend 600 meters into the world’s largest intact volcanic caldera—home to an incredible diversity of wildlife.
The Ngorongoro Crater is famous for being one of the best places to see the Big Five in a single game drive. Look out for endangered black rhinos, prides of lions, large elephant bulls, buffaloes, and elusive leopards hiding in the forest edges. Other animals include hippos, hyenas, jackals, zebras, and abundant birdlife.
A picnic lunch will be served near the tranquil Ngoitoktok Hippo Pool, a great spot to relax and enjoy the views. After more wildlife viewing, you’ll ascend from the crater and return to your lodge in Karatu.
This day is a highlight of all 3 days Tanzania safari packages and offers excellent value for the 3 days Tanzania safari cost compared to more expensive options like a 3 day Serengeti safari price.
DAY ACTIVITIES
- Full-Day Game Drive in Ngorongoro Crater
- Picnic Lunch at the Hippo Pool
Tarangire National Park Photos
OVERNIGHT & MEAL PLAN
- Location: Karatu
- Room Type: Standard
- Meal Plan: FB – Dinner, Breakfast and Lunch
- It's Reviews: TripAdvisor Reviews
Pro Tip from Seko Tours Adventures:
Ngorongoro Conservation Area is a breathtaking wildlife haven, famous for its vast crater, lush landscapes, and rich biodiversity.
It is home to all of the Big Five: elephants, lions, leopards, buffaloes, and rhinos. The crater’s enclosed ecosystem makes it one of the best places to spot these iconic animals in a single game drive.
Beyond the Big Five, Ngorongoro hosts cheetahs, zebras, wildebeests, hippos, and a variety of bird species. Its unique geography and year-round wildlife make it a must-visit safari destination.
Day 3:
Lake Manyara National Park to Arusha
After breakfast, your guide will take you on a short drive to Lake Manyara National Park—famous for its diverse wildlife and tree-climbing lions.
Start with a game drive through the park’s lush groundwater forest. Here, you may encounter blue monkeys, bushbucks, and elephants. The forest opens to grassy plains and then to the shores of Lake Manyara, where pink flamingos, pelicans, and storks gather.
One of the park’s hidden gems is the Lake Manyara Treetop Walkway, a series of suspension bridges that offer a bird’s-eye view of the forest and its wildlife.
After lunch at a scenic picnic site, you’ll begin your return to Arusha, arriving by late afternoon.
This is the perfect conclusion to your 3 days Tanzania safari tour, filled with unforgettable encounters and beautiful landscapes.
DAY ACTIVITIES
- Lake Manyara Game Drive
- Lake Manyara Treetop Walkway
- Picnic Lunch
Lake Manyara National Park Photos
Looking for a 3 Days Tanzania Big 5 Budget Safari: Itinerary, Prices & Tips for your dates?
Receive a free Tanzania safari quote straight to your email within 6 hours! Customize your preferences, and we’ll craft a unique experience just for you. Prices vary based on group size and accommodation choice.
Tanzania Safari Price for This 3-Day Itinerary
Here’s what’s included in this Tanzania safari package for 2025/[next_year]:
| Package Details | Price Per Person |
|---|---|
| 2 People (Sharing) | 👉 Get a Free Quote |
| 4 People (Sharing) | 👉 Get a Free Quote |
| Single Traveler | 👉 Get a Free Quote |
These are average Tanzania safari prices for a budget tour. If you want more comfort, you can upgrade to a luxury Tanzania safari with top-rated Tanzania safari lodges.
👉 For best rates, travel during the low season or join shared tours.
We've got you covered
Our tours are top-notch but give you great value. The price we tell you upfront covers most of the costs for one person, like flights and all transfers.
Includes
- Park fees
- All activities (unless labeled as optional)
- All accommodation as stated in the itinerary
- A professional driver/guide
- All transportation (unless labeled as optional)
- All Taxes/VAT
- Roundtrip airport transfer
- All Meals (as specified in the day-by-day section)
- Air Ambulance Service by AMREF Flying Doctors;
Excludes
- International flights (from/to home)
- Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour
- Tips to your safari guide ($30-50 per day per car).
- Personal items (souvenirs, travel insurance, visa fees, etc.)
- Government imposed increase of taxes and/or park fees
- Alcohol drinks
- Visas and visa fees where relevant
- Additional activities not offered as scheduled by the accommodation
- Lunch and dinner in hotel (only before and after safari);
- Hot Air Balloon Safari ($599 optional)
Plan Your 3 Days Tanzania Safari with Seko Tours
Whether you’re interested in a 3 days Tanzania lodge safari, a 3 days Tanzania safari from Zanzibar, or even a 3 days group joining Tanzania safari, this itinerary is flexible and affordable. Many travelers ask, “What is the best time for safari in Tanzania?” The good news is this trip runs year-round with the best wildlife visibility from June to October and January to March.
We welcome couples, families, and solo travelers to join this unforgettable journey. Rated among the top 3 days Tanzania safari reviews, this safari delivers excellent value and lifetime memories.
Suggested Add-ons & Upgrades
Upgrade to Fly-In Safari: From Zanzibar to Serengeti Central (Seronera)
Luxury Option: Ole Serai Luxury Camp – All Inclusive
Add 4th Day: Visit Serengeti or extend to Zanzibar beach
3 Days Tanzania Safari Price Breakdown
The average cost of safari in Tanzania can vary, but our package is made to fit budget-conscious travelers without compromising the experience.
Sample Price (per person):
Group Joining Safari: from $690 – $850 USD
Private Safari Option: from $900 – $1,100 USD
Price includes:
Accommodation in lodges
Full board meals
Safari vehicle and guide
All park entry fees
Bottled water
Optional:
Flight from Zanzibar to Arusha (extra charge)
Travel insurance
Looking for group tours? Join our 3 days group joining Tanzania safari for a fun, social, and budget-friendly adventure!
Best Time to Do a 3 Days Tanzania Safari
Wondering what is the best time for safari in Tanzania? Here are our recommendations:
June to October: Best wildlife viewing (dry season)
January to March: Calving season in Ndutu (South Serengeti)
November & December: Short rains, fewer tourists
You can also enjoy a 3-day Serengeti safari from Arusha during these times, or even choose an extended 4-day safari Tanzania price option.
Tanzania Safari Tips for First-Timers
Here are some helpful Tanzania safari tips to make your trip more enjoyable:
Pack light, breathable clothing
Bring a good camera and binoculars
Use insect repellent
Always follow your guide’s instructions
Be respectful of nature and local culture
For more info, check our blog post on Tanzania safari cost per day and the general safari cost in Tanzania.
Why Book With Seko Tours Adventures?
At Seko Tours Adventures, we’re local experts with a passion for showing guests the best of Tanzania. When you travel with us, you enjoy:
🗺️ Personalized safari itineraries
🧭 Professional driver-guides
🛏️ Handpicked luxury lodges
🧳 Smooth transfers and logistics
🤝 Friendly support from start to finish
We help you plan the best Tanzania safari, whether you’re coming from Zanzibar or anywhere in the world.
✨ Plan your dream 3-Day safari with Seko Tours today — your adventure awaits!
Plan your unforgettable adventure with Seko Tours Adventures. Whether you’re curious or ready to book, we’ll give you a free quote with no obligation. Let us help you design your perfect Africa safari—just the way you like it!
How to plan your Tanzania safari
Connect
Call us or enquire online. Share your wish list and we’ll start planning your adventure.
Customise
Your dedicated travel expert will be in touch within 12hrs to start designing your bespoke African itinerary.
Confirm
We won’t stop refining your plans until we get the perfect trip at the best price.
Travel
Receive your Seko Tours documents, pack your bags and set off on your trip of a lifetime.
Popular questions about Tanzania Safari 3 Days Tanzania Big 5 Budget Safari: Itinerary, Prices & Tips
The price of the 3 days Tanzania safari varies depending on the group size, lodge selection, and travel season. Budget safaris start from around $650 to $950 per person sharing.
This package includes park fees, game drives, accommodation, meals, and a professional guide. Flights, tips, and drinks are usually excluded unless mentioned
Yes, we offer group joining safaris, which help reduce costs while offering a social experience. These are perfect for solo travelers or couples.
You will share the vehicle and guide with other guests, but still enjoy a full itinerary including Tarangire, Ngorongoro, and Manyara.
Yes, we offer fly-in safaris from Zanzibar with quick flights to Arusha. You can start and end your safari in Zanzibar while still enjoying all the activities.
This option is ideal for honeymooners or beach lovers looking to add a short wildlife adventure to their Zanzibar holiday.
You can expect to see the Big Five—lion, leopard, rhino, buffalo, and elephant—especially in Ngorongoro and Tarangire.
Other wildlife includes giraffes, zebras, hippos, wildebeests, and many bird species. Lake Manyara is famous for its flamingos and tree-climbing lions.
We use comfortable 4x4 Land Cruisers with pop-up roofs for great wildlife viewing. Each guest gets a window seat.
The vehicles also carry a fridge, charging sockets, and sometimes Wi-Fi. Your guide is knowledgeable and speaks English.
Yes, this safari is great for families. Children will enjoy the animals, nature, and activities like the treetop walkway in Lake Manyara.
We can provide child seats and family rooms at the lodge. Some discounts are available for kids under 12.
7. What should I pack for this safari?
We recommend light clothes for the day, a warm jacket for early mornings, comfortable shoes, sunscreen, and binoculars.
Don’t forget your camera! It’s also good to carry insect repellent and personal toiletries.
The safari runs all year, but the best time is June to October (dry season) and January to March (calving season).
These months offer better wildlife viewing and less rain. However, the parks are beautiful even during the green season.
Yes, all park entry fees are included in our safari package. You won’t need to pay extra at the gate.
This makes your safari stress-free and budget-friendly, especially for first-time visitors.
All meals are included—breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Most meals are served at the lodge.
Picnic lunches are provided during game drives. Special dietary needs can be arranged in advance.
Eileen’s Trees Inn in Karatu is a cozy and well-reviewed lodge offering good food and service. Rooms are clean with private bathrooms.
It is a popular choice for budget travelers and has beautiful gardens and friendly staff.
Internet is available at the lodge via Wi-Fi. Some safari vehicles also offer Wi-Fi, but coverage may be limited in remote areas.
We recommend using your time to enjoy nature and disconnect from screens whenever possible.
Yes, you can upgrade to mid-range or luxury lodges, add more days, or start the tour from Zanzibar.
Let us know your preferences and we’ll create a custom itinerary for you.
Tipping is not mandatory but is appreciated. For safari guides, $10–$15 per day per group is common.
At lodges, $1–$2 per day for staff is a kind gesture. Your tips make a big difference for local workers.
It’s best to book at least 2–3 months in advance, especially if you want to travel during the Migration or holiday seasons, when camps and flights fill up fast.
Yes, most visitors need a visa. You can get it online or on arrival at the airport.
Make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months and has one blank page.
Just click 👉 Request a Quote Here and fill in your details. Our team will send you everything you need to confirm your trip.
If your question is not listed, please contact us from here.
