Northern Circuit Safaris

3-Day Serengeti & Ngorongoro Safari Starting from Zanzibar

Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro Crater

Safari in national parks: Ngorongoro Crater and Serengeti National Park

This 3-day safari from Zanzibar is crafted for travelers seeking a concentrated yet unforgettable experience of Northern Tanzania’s iconic wildlife destinations. Beginning with a flight to Arusha, you will venture into the heart of Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park, where endless golden plains, rocky kopjes, and a remarkable variety of wildlife await. Lions, cheetahs, elephants, and zebras roam freely, creating a breathtaking spectacle for both first-time and seasoned safari-goers.

The adventure continues to the Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the world’s most extraordinary wildlife havens. Descend into the caldera to witness an incredible concentration of animals, including the Big Five lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino set against dramatic crater walls, lakes, and savannah landscapes. Throughout your journey, your expert guide will share insights into the ecosystems, conservation efforts, and animal behaviors, making your safari both thrilling and educational.

With carefully selected lodges, professional safari guides, and fully equipped 4×4 vehicles, this safari guarantees comfort, safety, and convenience while maximizing wildlife encounters. Ideal for travelers with limited time, this 3-day adventure captures the very essence of Tanzania’s Northern Circuit in a compact, action-packed experience, brought to you by Savanna Legacy Safaris.

Trip Itinerary

  • Day 1: Zanzibar → Arusha → Serengeti National Park

    Begin your adventure with a morning flight from Zanzibar to Arusha, where you’ll be warmly welcomed by your professional safari guide from Savanna Legacy Safaris. Embark on a scenic drive through rolling hills, lush farmland, and quaint villages as you make your way toward the iconic Serengeti National Park. Along the journey, your guide will highlight unique flora, wildlife, and cultural landmarks, offering a vivid introduction to Tanzania’s rich natural and cultural heritage.

    Upon arrival in the Serengeti, settle into your lodge or luxury tented camp before embarking on your first afternoon game drive. Explore the vast central plains, where golden grasses stretch to the horizon and rocky kopjes provide perfect vantage points to observe wildlife. Witness prides of lions lounging under the sun, cheetahs stealthily stalking their prey, and elephants gracefully roaming the savannah. Return to your lodge for a sumptuous dinner beneath a canopy of stars, fully immersing yourself in the sights and sounds of the Serengeti wilderness with Savanna Legacy Safaris.

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    Recommended Properties to Stay


  • Day 2: Full-Day Serengeti Game Drives

    Wake up early to make the most of your wildlife encounters in the Serengeti. Spend the day on morning and afternoon game drives exploring iconic areas such as the Seronera Valley, famous for its high concentration of predators and abundant wildlife. Witness wildebeest grazing alongside zebras, listen for the distant roar of lions, and catch glimpses of leopards resting gracefully in acacia trees. The Serengeti’s shifting light creates extraordinary photographic opportunities, with landscapes that transition from golden savannahs to rocky outcrops and seasonal rivers.

    Pause for a scenic picnic lunch in the heart of the plains, surrounded by uninterrupted views of nature and wildlife. Your expert guide provides fascinating insights into animal behaviors, the ecological balance of the park, and intriguing facts about the Serengeti’s ancient ecosystem. In the late afternoon, continue your safari adventure, spotting elephants at a waterhole, cheetahs sprinting across the plains, or other remarkable wildlife, before returning to your lodge for dinner and a restful overnight stay, immersed in the sights and sounds of Africa’s untamed wilderness.

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    Recommended Properties to Stay


  • Day 3: Serengeti → Ngorongoro Crater → Arusha → Zanzibar

    Depart the Serengeti after breakfast and journey toward the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, passing rolling highlands, charming Maasai villages, and stunning scenic vistas along the way. Arrive at the magnificent Ngorongoro Crater, where you’ll descend into this extraordinary caldera for a morning game drive. Encounter one of the densest wildlife populations on Earth, from elephants and buffaloes to lions and the elusive black rhino, all framed by the dramatic crater walls, seasonal lakes, and expansive grassy plains.

    Enjoy a picnic lunch within the crater, soaking in the panoramic views and capturing unforgettable photographs. In the afternoon, ascend the crater rim and drive back to Arusha, reflecting on your remarkable journey through Northern Tanzania. Conclude your safari with an evening flight back to Zanzibar, carrying memories of extraordinary wildlife encounters, breathtaking landscapes, and immersive cultural experiences.

    Important Note

    Accommodation on the final day of the tour is not included in the standard package. Clients who wish to stay overnight can request arrangements in advance. Additional charges may apply depending on the chosen hotel or lodge, availability, and room type. We recommend booking early to secure preferred accommodations and ensure a smooth end to your safari experience.

What is Included

Transfers

  • All transfers as outlined in the program.
  • Flight from Zanzibar → Arusha and back.

 

Accommodation & Meals

  • Accommodation in lodges as described in the program.
  • Meals as specified in the itinerary.
  • Bottled water, soft drinks, hot coffee, and tea provided while on safari in the jeep.

 

Guiding & Game Drives

  • Services of a certified and experienced English-speaking safari guide.
  • Comfortable 4×4 Land Cruiser with pop-up roof, equipped with fridge, Wi-Fi, and power outlets.
  • All national park fees, including park entry and crater service fees.
  • Free Wi-Fi availability in 60–75% of the traveled areas (depending on wilderness cell coverage).
    24/7 phone support throughout your safari.
  • Binoculars (1 per vehicle) for enhanced wildlife viewing.
  • Onboard medical kit for added safety.

What is Not Included

  • International and domestic flights
  • Tanzania tourist visa
  • Travel insurance
  • Tips/gratuities for guide and lodge staff
  • Optional activities not mentioned in the itinerary (balloon safari, cultural tours, etc.)
  • Alcoholic beverages at lodges/camps (unless specified)
  • Personal expenses such as laundry, souvenirs, or additional meals not listed

Important Notes

  • All tours include shared accommodation in twin or double rooms unless a different arrangement is requested and confirmed. Single-room supplements are available upon request.
  • Accommodation in Arusha and Moshi generally includes breakfast only, unless otherwise specified. Please refer to your detailed itinerary for meal plans associated with each night.
  • Most safari lodges do not include tea, coffee, soft drinks, or alcoholic beverages in their standard packages. Guests may order and pay for these directly at the lodge or camp.
  • Many tented lodges within Tanzania’s wildlife areas operate partially or fully on solar power. This may mean bucket showers, limited Wi-Fi connectivity, and the absence of amenities such as hair dryers. These eco-friendly setups are designed to reduce environmental impact while offering an authentic safari experience.
  • We strongly recommend reviewing the accommodations listed in your itinerary to ensure they meet your personal travel style and expectations.

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