3 Days Crater & Lake Manyara Safari Combo

Embark on a thrilling 3-day safari adventure through Tanzania’s iconic Crater Highlands and Lake Manyara National Park. This compact yet immersive tour is perfect for wildlife enthusiasts, photographers, and nature lovers seeking a mix of breathtaking landscapes, close wildlife encounters, and cultural experiences. Explore the majestic Ngorongoro Crater, witness the tree-climbing lions at Lake Manyara, and enjoy the rich biodiversity of Tanzania’s northern circuit.

Safari Highlights

• Game drives in Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

• Boat safari and wildlife viewing at Lake Manyara.

• Spot flamingos, elephants, lions, and diverse bird species.

• Scenic drives through the Great Rift Valley.

• Cultural encounters with local Maasai communities.

Belief Itinerary

We believe a safari should combine adventure, comfort, and sustainability. Our 3-day combo balances game drives with time to relax in scenic lodges, ensuring you experience Tanzania’s wildlife responsibly while enjoying unforgettable comfort.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arusha – Ngorongoro Crater

• Morning: Depart Arusha early and drive to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Enjoy scenic views of the Crater Highlands.

• Afternoon: Descend into the crater for an afternoon game drive. Spot rhinos, elephants, zebras, and lions in their natural habitat.

• Evening: Check into your lodge on the crater rim or nearby.

• Accommodation: Ngorongoro Serena Lodge or similar.

• Meals: Lunch (packed picnic in crater), Dinner at the lodge.

Day. 2: Ngorongoro – Lake Manyara

• Morning: Breakfast at lodge, then drive to Lake Manyara National Park.

• Afternoon: Enjoy a game drive and boat safari. Look out for hippos, flamingos, giraffes, and tree-climbing lions.

• Evening: Check into your lodge or tented camp near the lake.

• Accommodation: Lake Manyara Kilimamoja Lodge or similar.

• Meals: Breakfast at lodge, Lunch picnic inside park, Dinner at lodge.

Day 3: Lake Manyara – Arusha

• Morning: Optional early morning game drive or birdwatching.

• Midday: Enjoy breakfast and depart for Arusha.

• Afternoon: Arrive in Arusha, concluding your safari.

• Meals: Breakfast included, Lunch on arrival (optional).

Safari Inclusions

• All park entry fees.

• Professional safari guide/driver.

• 4×4 game drive vehicle with pop-up roof.

• Accommodation as stated.

• Meals as per itinerary.

• Bottled water during game drives.

Safari Exclusions

• International flights to/from Tanzania.

• Visa fees.

• Personal expenses (souvenirs, tips, beverages).

• Travel insurance.

• Optional activities not mentioned in the itinerary.

What to Pack

• Light, neutral-colored clothing.

• Comfortable walking shoes.

• Sunhat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.

• Binoculars and camera with extra batteries.

• Light jacket for evenings.

• Reusable water bottle.

Travel Guidelines & Important Notes for Tanzania Safaris

We want your Tanzania safari experience to be smooth, safe, and memorable. To help with planning, please take note of the following guidelines and conditions:

1. Flexibility of the Itinerary

• The program provided is a sample itinerary, tailored to showcase Tanzania’s highlights. It can always be adjusted according to your preferences—whether you wish to extend your stay, change activities, or upgrade accommodations.

• While we always strive to follow the planned schedule, changes may occur due to weather, road conditions, government regulations, or operational requirements. In such cases, the route or order of activities may be adjusted for your comfort and safety.

2. Seasonal Activities & Advance Booking

• Some experiences, such as Serengeti Great Migration crossings, depend heavily on seasonal animal movements and cannot be guaranteed.

• Peak seasons (Christmas, Easter, and school holidays) see high demand, so early booking is strongly recommended to secure preferred lodges, flights, and activities.

3. Accommodation Options

• For most of our itineraries, we can provide luxury, midrange, or budget accommodation depending on your preferences and budget.

• All accommodation is carefully selected for comfort, location, and service standards. Availability may vary, but we will always offer the best alternatives.

4. Park Rules & Respect for Nature

• Tanzania’s national parks have strict conservation guidelines. Guests are required to respect wildlife and follow their guide’s instructions at all times.

• Feeding or disturbing animals is prohibited. Always maintain a safe distance when viewing wildlife.

• Park opening hours and regulations must be observed for the safety of both travelers and wildlife.

5. Health & Safety Guidelines

• A Yellow Fever vaccination certificate may be required if you are traveling from or transiting through a Yellow Fever risk country.

• We recommend being up-to-date with routine vaccinations (such as tetanus and hepatitis A/B).

• Malaria prevention is strongly advised—please consult your doctor for medication.

• Carry a personal medical kit and sufficient supply of prescription medicines.

6. Travel Documents & Visa Requirements

• A valid passport with at least 6 months validity from your date of entry into Tanzania is required.

• Most visitors need a tourist visa, which can be obtained online (e-visa) or on arrival at the airport/entry border.

• Ensure you also carry a copy of your travel insurance policy.

7. What to Pack

• Light, breathable clothing in neutral colors (avoid bright colors during game drives).

• Warm sweater/jacket for early morning and evening drives.

• Sun protection: hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.

• Insect repellent.

• Comfortable walking shoes and sandals.

• Swimwear for lodges with pools or Zanzibar extensions.

• Camera/binoculars for wildlife photography.

• A reusable water bottle to reduce plastic waste.

8. Money & Payments

• The official currency is the Tanzanian Shilling (TZS), but US Dollars are widely accepted in lodges, camps, and parks.

• Carry small denominations in clean, newer USD notes (issued after 2006).

• Credit cards are accepted in most lodges, but surcharges may apply. ATMs are available in major towns.

9. Responsible Travel

• We encourage sustainable tourism. Please respect local cultures and communities, ask before taking photos, and support local businesses where possible.

• Reduce plastic use by carrying a reusable water bottle or shopping bag.

• Tipping is customary in Tanzania, with guidelines available from your safari consultant.

10. Terms & Conditions

• By booking a safari, clients accept Pillars of Africa Safaris’ Terms & Conditions of business. These include details on cancellations, payments, liabilities, and service provisions.