Why Choose a Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater Safari Package?
A Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater safari package combines two of Tanzania’s most spectacular destinations into one unforgettable adventure. The Serengeti National Park (14,763 km²) is renowned for the Great Migration and vast predator populations, while the Ngorongoro Crater (260 km²), a UNESCO World Heritage Site, hosts the Big Five in a compact volcanic caldera. These packages, starting from Arusha or Moshi, offer seamless itineraries, expert guides, and diverse lodging options.
Wildlife Highlights of Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater
These destinations offer distinct wildlife experiences:
| Destination | Key Wildlife | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Serengeti National Park | Lions (3,000+), cheetahs, leopards, wildebeest (1.5M+), zebras | Great Migration (seasonal), predator-prey action, vast savannas. |
| Ngorongoro Crater | Black rhinos (~30), lions (60–80), elephants, leopards, flamingos | Big Five in one game drive, dense wildlife, Lake Magadi scenery. |
Fun Fact: Ngorongoro Crater has one of Africa’s highest lion densities, while Serengeti is home to the world’s largest terrestrial mammal migration.
Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater Safari Package Costs
Costs for a 3–5 day safari package range from $ 1,200–$3,500+ per person, depending on duration, accommodation, and season. Below is a breakdown (per person, based on two adults sharing):
1. Cost by Safari Type
| Safari Type | 3-Day Cost (USD) | 5-Day Cost (USD) | Inclusions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Budget Camping | $1,200 | $1,600 | Dome tents, shared facilities, meals, 4×4 Land Cruiser, guide, park fees. |
| Mid-Range Lodges/Camps | $1,800 | $3,000 | En-suite tents/lodges, meals, private 4×4, guide, park fees. |
| Luxury Lodges/Camps | $3,500+ | $6,000+ | Premium lodges, gourmet meals, 4×4, guide, park fees, extras (e.g., balloon ride). |
2. Park Fees
- Serengeti: $70.80/adult/day.
- Ngorongoro Conservation Area (NCA): $70.80/adult/day; Crater service fee: $295/vehicle/day.
- East African Citizens (16+): TZS 11,800/day/park.
- Note: Fees exclude 18% VAT, payable via credit card or CRDB bank prepaid cards.
3. Additional Costs
- Transport: 4×4 Land Cruiser ($150–$250/day, included); flights to Serengeti ($150–$300/person one-way).
- Add-Ons: Hot air balloon ride ($540/person), Olduvai Gorge ($35/person), Maasai village ($25/person).
- Tips: $10–$20/day for guides, $5–$10/day for camp staff (optional).
Tip: Group safaris (4–6 people) save $100–$200/person by sharing vehicle and guide costs.
Popular Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater Safari Packages
These itineraries, starting from Arusha, cater to various budgets and preferences:
1. 3-Day Budget Safari Package
- Cost: $1,200/person.
- Itinerary: Day 1: Drive to Serengeti (6 hours), afternoon game drive. Day 2: Full-day Serengeti game drives. Day 3: Ngorongoro Crater game drive, return to Arusha.
- Accommodation: Seronera Campsite (Serengeti), Simba Campsite (Ngorongoro).
- Highlights: Big Five, wildebeest migration (seasonal), crater views.
2. 4-Day Mid-Range Safari Package
- Cost: $2,200/person.
- Itinerary: Day 1: Drive to Serengeti, game drive. Day 2: Full-day Serengeti. Day 3: Transfer to Ngorongoro, rim walk. Day 4: Crater game drive, return to Arusha.
- Accommodation: Serengeti Tortilis Camp, Ngorongoro Wildlife Lodge.
- Highlights: Predator sightings, Maasai culture, crater wildlife.
3. 5-Day Luxury Safari Package
- Cost: $6,000+/person.
- Itinerary: Day 1: Fly to Serengeti, game drive. Days 2–3: Serengeti game drives, optional balloon ride. Day 4: Drive to Ngorongoro, crater rim. Day 5: Crater game drive, return.
- Accommodation: Four Seasons Serengeti, &Beyond Ngorongoro Crater Lodge.
- Highlights: Great Migration, exclusive lodges, private 4×4.
Note: Add Tarangire or Lake Manyara for 6–7 day packages ($2,000–$7,000+/person).
Best Time for a Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater Safari
Season affects wildlife, costs, and conditions:
| Season | Best For | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dry Season (June–October) | Wildlife Viewing | Great Migration (June–August), clear roads, animals at water sources. | Higher costs ($1,200–$3,500+/person), crowds. |
| Wet Season (November–May) | Budget Travel | Lush landscapes, fewer tourists, calving season (January–February), lower rates ($650–$2,000). | Muddy roads, rain showers. |
| Shoulder Season (January–February) | Balanced Experience | Wildebeest calving, moderate crowds, good weather, mid-range costs ($900–$2,500). | Occasional rain. |
Recommendation: Book for June–August to catch the Great Migration in Serengeti, or January–February for calving and fewer crowds in both parks.
Tips for Booking Your Safari Package
- Book Early: Reserve 6–12 months ahead for peak season (June–October) to secure lodges and permits.
- Choose Local Operators: Reputable Tanzanian companies offer competitive rates and NCAA/TANAPA-approved guides.
- Join Group Tours: Save $100–$200/person by sharing costs with 4–6 travelers.
- Customize Your Package: Add balloon rides ($540/person) or cultural tours ($25–$35/person) for a richer experience.
- Check Inclusions: Ensure park fees, meals, and transport are covered to avoid hidden costs.
- Pack Smart: Bring layers for cool Ngorongoro mornings (11–14°C), binoculars, and a 200–400mm camera lens.
Pro Tip: Start your Ngorongoro Crater game drive at 6 AM via Seneto Descent Road to spot active lions in Mandusi Swamp.
Why Choose This Safari Package?
A Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater safari package offers:
- Diverse Wildlife: From Serengeti’s migrating wildebeest to Ngorongoro’s black rhinos, see Africa’s iconic species.
- Scenic Variety: Vast Serengeti plains contrast with Ngorongoro’s 600m-deep caldera.
- Efficient Travel: Only 2–3 hours between parks, maximizing game drive time.
- Flexible Options: Budget camping to luxury lodges suit all travelers.
Extend Your Trip: Combine with Kilimanjaro trekking or Zanzibar beaches for a complete Tanzania experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is a Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater safari package?
3-day packages cost $650–$3,500+/person; 5-day packages range from $1,200–$6,000+, depending on accommodation and season.
What’s included in the safari package?
Park fees, accommodation, meals, 4×4 Land Cruiser, guide, and transport from Arusha are standard.
When is the best time for this safari?
June–October for Great Migration and dry weather, or January–February for calving and fewer crowds.
Can I do a budget safari package?
Yes, camping safaris start at $650/person for 3 days, ideal for budget travelers.
Is the Great Migration included?
Yes, in June–August (Serengeti river crossings) or January–February (calving), but confirm itinerary with your operator.
Book Your Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater Safari Package
Ready to explore Tanzania’s wildlife wonders? Contact our safari experts to customize a Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater safari package for your adventure.
