3 days Joining Safari in Lake Manyara, Ngorongoro Crater & Tarangire
Dive into the heart of Tanzania’s wilderness with a Joining Safari that takes you through Tarangire, the breathtaking Ngorongoro Crater, and the serene Lake Manyara.
Joining Safari Cost:
US $ 600 per person ( Minimum Six people)
Note For Private Safari Option: $ 955 per person (Minimum two people)
The Lure of Joining Safari
Joining safaris are structured group tours that allow multiple individuals to share the adventure, making this an accessible option for solo travelers, couples, and families. The concept revolves around collective experiences—providing guests an opportunity to foster new friendships, share their love for nature, and relive every breathtaking moment together. The multitude of benefits also includes lower costs, organized itineraries, and the chance to engage with local guides who impart invaluable knowledge about the natural environment and cultural context of the areas visited.
Destinations to Visit
Starting this adventure joining safari in Tarangire National Park presents an impressive gateway to the wonders of East African wildlife. Iconic features such as the towering baobab trees and huge elephant herds create picturesque landscapes that delight all visitors. Tarangire is renowned for its prolific wildlife viewing opportunities, offering travelers close interactions with a myriad of species—elephants, lions, zebras, and more. As participants drive through the rugged terrain, they become members of a collective story, witnessing daily life in the wild unfold before their eyes. Such exposure not only offers thrilling adventures but also fosters a profound respect and appreciation for conservation efforts within these extraordinary ecosystems.
As one progresses on this remarkable journey, the majesty of Ngorongoro Crater awaits. Often dubbed the Eighth Wonder of the World, this UNESCO World Heritage site is distinguished by its unique geological features, which serve as important habitats for numerous wildlife species. Exploring the crater means encountering major attractions like the rhythmically wandering wildebeest, the vividly colored flamingos adorning Lake Magadi, and majestic lions lazing in the sun. Beyond the breathtaking wildlife encounters, the Ngorongoro Crater holds cultural significance as well, being an area deeply woven into the heritage and traditions of the Maasai people—further enriching the experience of every guest who steps foot here.
Completing the epic experience, Lake Manyara offers a tranquil retreat, known for its stunning birdwatching opportunities and vibrant boasting of unique flora and fauna. Participants in joining safaris can indulge in the serenity of this picturesque lake, encountering hundreds of bird species drawn from across the globe. Gentle hikes during this segment reveal beautiful ecosystems and splendid views of the rift valley, enhancing the overall safari experience. For those preparing to embark on joining safaris, incorporating tips such as essential packing items and being informed about the best wildlife viewing seasons can transform a good adventure into an unforgettable journey, ensuring they are ready for anything the wild may offer.
3 Day Joining Safari Itinerary
Day 1: Tarangire National Park
Your adventure begins in Tarangire National Park, known for its vast savannas and iconic baobab trees. Did you know that Tarangire has one of the highest concentrations of elephants in Africa? You might spot herds of these gentle giants roaming through the park.
As a part of your joining safari, you’ll start with an early morning game drive. This is the best time to catch a glimpse of wildlife before the sun gets too hot. Keep your camera ready for the elusive leopards, cheetahs, and lions that also call this park home.
Highlights of Tarangire:
- Elephants: Over 3,000 elephants live in this park.
- Diversity: Tarangire has a unique variety of wildlife, thanks to its diverse habitats, including rivers, swamps, and woodlands.
- Birdlife: Over 500 bird species can be spotted here.
Day 2: Ngorongoro Crater
After a night under the stars in Tarangire, your joining safari continues to the majestic Ngorongoro Crater. This UNESCO World Heritage site is often referred to as one of the natural wonders of the world. It’s a massive volcanic caldera filled with lush grasslands, lakes, and wildlife.
What makes Ngorongoro Crater special is its population of the Big Five: lions, leopards, rhinoceros, elephants, and buffalo. During your game drive, you’ll have the best chance to see all of these magnificent animals in one place.
Must-See Features of Ngorongoro:
- Wildlife: Over 25,000 large animals enjoy the rich habitat in the crater.
- Unique Ecosystem: The varying altitudes in the crater support diverse ecosystems, from grassy plains to forests.
- Culture: You might also meet the Maasai people, who inhabit the area and have a rich cultural heritage.
Day 3: Lake Manyara National Park
On the final day of your joining safari, you’ll visit Lake Manyara National Park. This stunning National Park covers an area around a soda lake and is filled with incredible surprises.
Lake Manyara is famous for its flamingos that gather in large numbers, creating a beautiful pink hue against the blue waters. You may also encounter baboons and tree-climbing lions, both essential highlights of this unique park.
Key Attractions at Lake Manyara:
- Flamingos: The best chance to see these vibrant birds is usually between November and April.
- Diverse Ecosystems: The park contains different habitats such as a ground water forest and open grasslands.
- Unique Flora: You might encounter the famous acacia trees, as well as various plant species.
Cost Includes:
- All park entrance fees
- Full board accommodation during the safari
- English-speaking driver/guide service
- Transport in a 4WD safari vehicle with an open roof for wildlife viewing
- All meals during the safari
- 1 liter of pure drinking water per person daily
- Tours in designated protected area
Cost Excludes:
- Airport transfers
- Accommodation before and after the safari in Arusha
- Tips for the driver/guide and cook
- Services of the flying doctors
- Personal expenses
Tips for an Amazing Joining Safari Experience
Packing Essentials
To ensure that your joining safari experience is amazing, it’s essential to prepare adequately and be well-informed. One of the crucial aspects of preparation is packing the right essentials, which can significantly enhance your comfort and enjoyment during the trip. Packing items like
- Lightweight, breathable clothing suitable for varying temperatures,
- A wide-brimmed hat, sturdy walking shoes,
- A good pair of binoculars can make a world of difference
- Sunscreen
- Insect repellent
- A reusable water bottle to stay hydrated throughout your excursions.
Best Times to Join the Safari
The timing of your safari is another vital factor that can influence the experience. Tanzania boasts a myriad of regions that are home to spectacular wildlife, and the best times to visit often depend on the specific locations and seasons. Generally, many safari-goers favor the dry season, which runs from June to October, as animals tend to gather around watering holes, making wildlife spotting much easier. Additionally, witnessing the Great Migration during September and October in the Serengeti is an unforgettable experience. However, visiting during the green season, from November to April, can also be delightful, showcasing lush landscapes and an array of newborn animals eager for their first adventurous explorations.