3-Day Budget Safari in Serengeti & Ngorongoro

Overview

An unforgettable group safari through iconic landscapes, rich wildlife, and the heart of Africa’s Big Five territory.

Embark on an exhilarating 3-day group safari adventure that immerses you in two of Tanzania’s most celebrated wildlife destinations—Serengeti National Park and the Ngorongoro Crater. Ideal for budget-conscious travelers, solo adventurers, and backpackers, this shared safari experience offers maximum exploration at minimal cost. With expertly guided game drives, scenic vistas, and authentic camping under the stars, this tour combines affordability with rich encounters in the African wilderness. Departing and ending in Arusha, it's the perfect short escape for those eager to witness the Big Five in their natural habitat.

Itinerary

Day 1 :

Arusha to Serengeti National Park

Your safari begins with an early departure from Arusha, heading toward the world-famous Serengeti via the beautiful Ngorongoro Highlands. Enjoy scenic views along the way and spot wildlife even before you reach the park. Upon arrival in Serengeti, you’ll embark on your first thrilling game drive, with opportunities to witness elephants, lions, giraffes, cheetahs, zebras, and possibly the Great Migration (seasonal). As the sun sets, settle into your public campsite for dinner and overnight.
Meals: Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Public campsite in Serengeti

Day 2 :

Serengeti National Park – Ngorongoro Conservation Area

Wake up early for a sunrise game drive across the Serengeti plains. The early morning is prime time for spotting predators on the hunt. After breakfast at camp, enjoy a half-day safari as you gradually exit the Serengeti and travel toward the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Stop at scenic viewpoints and Maasai villages along the way (optional). Arrive at the crater rim by late afternoon for dinner and overnight at a designated campsite overlooking the crater.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Simba Campsite (Ngorongoro Crater rim)

Day 3 :

Ngorongoro Crater Tour – Return to Arusha

After an early breakfast, descend into the Ngorongoro Crater—a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to over 25,000 animals, including black rhinos, lions, hippos, and herds of wildebeest and zebra. Enjoy a full morning game drive on the crater floor with a picnic lunch beside a hippo pool. By afternoon, ascend the crater and begin your return journey to Arusha, arriving by early evening.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Included & Excluded

All park entry fees and public campsite fees
Guaranteed group departure (shared safari)
Accommodation at Nyani (Serengeti) and Simba (Ngorongoro) public campsites
Transport in a 4x4 pop-up roof Land Cruiser
Professional English-speaking safari guide/driver
All game drives, crater descent, and listed activities
All meals: Breakfast (B), Lunch (L), Dinner (D)
2 liters of bottled water per person per day
Government taxes and VAT

International flights and visa fees
Airport transfers (available on request)
Extra accommodation before/after the tour
Travel insurance, personal expenses, and tips
Optional activities not listed in the itinerary

Map

Frequent Asked Question

What is the starting and ending point of the safari?

The safari begins and ends in Arusha, Tanzania. Hotel pickup and drop-off within Arusha are included in the package.

Is this a private or group safari?

This is a group joining safari, perfect for solo travelers, backpackers, and budget-conscious adventurers looking to share the experience with others.

What types of accommodations are provided?

You’ll stay at public campsites: