3 Days Tanzania Big 5 Safari – Midrange Lodge Experience
Overview of the 3 Days Tanzania Big 5 Safari - Midrange Lodge Adventure
Are you short on time but still dream of seeing Africa’s famous Big 5? This 3 days Tanzania Big 5 safari is the perfect choice. From the vast savannahs of Tarangire to the incredible Ngorongoro Crater and the scenic Lake Manyara, this adventure gives you a taste of Tanzania’s best in just three days.
Enjoy your stay at a cozy midrange lodge where comfort meets nature. Travel in a private 4×4 safari vehicle with a professional guide. This 3 days Tanzania safari midrange lodge itinerary includes game drives, amazing landscapes, delicious meals, and unforgettable wildlife sightings.












Why Choose This 3 Days Midrange Lodge Safari in Tanzania?
- Big 5 Sightings: See lions, elephants, leopards, buffaloes, and rhinos in 3 iconic parks
- Midrange Comfort: Stay in a clean and comfortable lodge with excellent meals
- Private Guide & Vehicle: Personalized experience with expert safari guides
- All-Inclusive: Meals, park fees, transport, and accommodation included
- 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

Languages
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 | Marera View Lodge |
Best Time | Year-Round (Especially June–October & January–March) |
Tour Itinerary
Day-by-Day Tanzania Safari Itinerary
Day 1:
Arusha to Tarangire National Park
Your safari adventure begins in the morning from Arusha. After breakfast, your guide will meet you and drive about 3 hours southwest to Tarangire National Park. This park is famous for its high number of elephants and ancient baobab trees.
Upon arrival, you’ll start your Tarangire game drive. The park is home to lions, leopards, giraffes, buffaloes, zebras, and many antelope species. It’s a peaceful area where you can enjoy wildlife with fewer crowds.
A picnic lunch will be served at a scenic spot within the park. After lunch, continue your game drive, exploring different areas of this stunning 2,600 km² park. In the late afternoon, you’ll head to Marera View Lodge, located in Karatu, for dinner and overnight.
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 Ngorongoro Crater Experience
After a hearty breakfast, set off for one of Africa’s most breathtaking wildlife areas: the Ngorongoro Crater. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is often called the 8th wonder of the world. Once you descend into the crater, get ready for an action-packed game drive.
Ngorongoro is home to the Big 5: lion, leopard, buffalo, elephant, and black rhino. You may also see hippos, zebras, flamingos, hyenas, and many birds. The lush green floor of the crater and its lake make it a perfect home for animals.
You’ll enjoy a picnic lunch at the hippo pool, where you can relax and watch hippos in their natural habitat. After the full-day exploration, drive back to Karatu and return to Marera View Lodge for dinner and rest.
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 Game Drive to Arusha
On your final day, enjoy breakfast before heading to Lake Manyara National Park. Though small, this park is packed with surprises. It’s famous for its tree-climbing lions, large flocks of flamingos, and scenic lake views.
Your Lake Manyara game drive will take you through green forests, open plains, and along the lakeshore. Keep your camera ready for elephants, baboons, and colorful birds. You’ll also experience the unique Manyara Treetop Walkway, giving you a new view from high up in the trees.
After a tasty picnic lunch in the park, begin your drive back to Arusha (around 3 hours). You’ll arrive in the afternoon, filled with unforgettable memories of your 3 days Tanzania safari.
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 Safari – Midrange Lodge Experience for your dates?
Tanzania Safari Price for This 3-Day Itinerary
Here’s what’s included in this Tanzania safari package for 2025/2026:
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):
- Private Safari Option: from $900 – $1,300 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
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Confirm
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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 Safari – Midrange Lodge Experience
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.