3 Days Tanzania Safari in May to Serengeti and Ngorongoro

Join a 3-day Tanzania safari in May to Serengeti and Ngorongoro. See the Big Five in a lush green landscape with fewer crowds and expert local guides.

3 Days Experience the Lush Green in Tanzania Safari In May

This 3-day Tanzania safari in May offers a unique perspective of the Serengeti and Ngorongoro during the peak of the green season. With fewer tourists and vibrant landscapes, you can enjoy a more private and peaceful wildlife experience. You will see the Big Five against a backdrop of blooming flowers and deep green grass. This 3-day safari in May in Tanzania is ideal for photographers and bird enthusiasts who appreciate clear air and the natural beauty of the rainy season's end.

Tour Highlights:

Day 1
Arusha to Ngorongoro Crater (Full Day Tour)
Day 2
Ngorongoro to Serengeti (Half-day Game Drive)
Day 3
Serengeti (Morning Game Drive) – Back to Arusha
Duration 3 Days
🚙
Tour Mode -
🎯
Main Tour Focus -
Tour Type -
Destination/Accommodation
Start
kilimanjaro
Tour Starting Point
1
Day 1
Ngorongoro Crater
Overnight: Ngorongoro Tortilis Camp
2
Day 2
Central Serengeti
Overnight: Serengeti Sopa Lodge
3
Day 3
Central Serengeti
Overnight: Arusha Serena Hotel
End
arusha
Tour Ending Point

Arrival Day: Kilimanjaro Airport to Arusha

Kilimanjaro Airport to Arusha

Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), your driver will pick you up and transfer you to your hotel in Arusha. This drive covers approximately 50 kilometers and takes about 1 hour. During the journey, you will notice the lush, tropical environment that May brings to the Arusha region. A positive and unexpected moment often happens when the clouds lift to reveal the base of Mount Meru, showing off vibrant waterfalls created by the seasonal rains. You will spend the evening resting and receiving a briefing about your upcoming 3-day safari in May.

Destination: Kilimanjaro Airport

Accommodation: Arusha Serena Hotel

  luxury 4 star lodge

Arusha Serena Hotel Images
Arusha Serena Hotel Images
Arusha Serena Hotel Images
Arusha Serena Hotel Images
Arusha Serena Hotel Images
Arusha Serena Hotel Images
Arusha Serena Hotel Images
Arusha Serena Hotel Images
Arusha Serena Hotel

Meals & Drinks: Lunch, Dinner

Day 1: Arusha to Ngorongoro Crater (Full Day Tour)

Arusha to Ngorongoro Crater (Full Day Tour)

After breakfast, you will travel from Arusha to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. The 180-kilometer drive takes about 3.5 hours. You will spend a full day exploring the Ngorongoro Crater floor. In May, the crater is transformed into a green paradise with many wildflowers. This is a perfect time on your 3-day Tanzania safari in May to see the rare black rhino and large prides of lions. A positive moment often experienced by tourists is seeing the crater floor covered in yellow and purple blooms, providing a stunning contrast to the wild animals. You will enjoy a picnic lunch before heading to your lodge for dinner.

Destination: Ngorongoro Crater

Accommodation: Ngorongoro Tortilis Camp

  mid rage 3 star lodge

Ngorongoro Tortilis Camp Images
Ngorongoro Tortilis Camp Images
Ngorongoro Tortilis Camp Images
Ngorongoro Tortilis Camp Images
Ngorongoro Tortilis Camp Images
Ngorongoro Tortilis Camp Images
Ngorongoro Tortilis Camp Images
Ngorongoro Tortilis Camp Images
Ngorongoro Tortilis Camp Images

Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 2: Ngorongoro to Serengeti (Half-day Game Drive)

Ngorongoro to Serengeti (Half-day Game Drive)

Today, your 3-day safari in May continues as you travel toward the central Serengeti National Park. The journey covers about 145 kilometers and takes roughly 4 hours through the scenic highlands. In the afternoon, you will enter the Seronera Valley for a game drive. May is an excellent time to witness the herds moving through the central plains where the grass is fresh. You might experience the exciting sight of a leopard resting in a lush, leaf-heavy acacia tree. The clear air after a brief shower provides excellent visibility for spotting predators. You will spend the night at a safari camp inside the park

Destination: Central Serengeti

Accommodation: Serengeti Sopa Lodge

  luxury 4 star lodge

Mid rage 3 star lodge
Semi luxury 4 star lodge

Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3: Serengeti (Morning Game Drive) – Back to Arusha

Serengeti (Morning Game Drive) – Back to Arusha

The final day of your 3-day safari in May in Tanzania starts with a sunrise game drive at 6:00 AM. This is a great time to see lions and cheetahs before they seek shade. A positive and unexpected highlight often occurs when you see a rainbow stretching across the vast Serengeti plains after a short morning rain. After a late breakfast, you will begin the return journey to Arusha. The drive covers 330 kilometers and takes about 7 to 8 hours. You will pass through the Great Rift Valley, arriving in Arusha in the evening for your flight home or an overnight stay.

Destination: Central Serengeti

Accommodation: Arusha Serena Hotel

  luxury 4 star lodge

Arusha Serena Hotel Images
Arusha Serena Hotel Images
Arusha Serena Hotel Images
Arusha Serena Hotel Images
Arusha Serena Hotel Images
Arusha Serena Hotel Images
Arusha Serena Hotel Images
Arusha Serena Hotel Images
Arusha Serena Hotel

Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

TOUR PRICE/COST

We offer two pricing options:

  •   Private Tour (Sharing Price)
  • The cost is shared within your private group. More people means a lower price per person.

  •   Group Joining Tour
  • Join others on a fixed-date tour at a set per-person rate—ideal for solo travelers or small groups.

    Private (Shared) Price

    Pricing Notice: No activities or park fees were found for this itinerary (ID: 2672). Please check the admin panel and ensure fees are selected and saved.

    PRICE INCLUSIONS & PRICE EXCLUSIONS

    Inclusions
  •  Rescue fee
  •  Meals (as specified in the day-by-day description)
  •  All accommodation mentioned (unless clearly labeled as optional upgrade)
  •  All transportation mentioned (unless clearly labeled as optional)
  •  All Taxes/VAT
  • Exclusions
  •  International flights to/from the start/end of the tour
  •  Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour
  •  Tips: tipping guideline
  •  Personal items
  •  Government imposed increase of taxes and/or park fees
  • The Booking Form

    RELATED FAQS ABOUT 3 Days Tanzania Safari in May to Serengeti and Ngorongoro

    How does the weather in May affect the experience of a three-day May safari to Serengeti and Ngorongoro?

    May marks the end of the long rainy season, which results in lush green landscapes and clear, dust free air across Northern Tanzania. While you may encounter occasional afternoon showers, the vibrant scenery provides a stunning backdrop for all your wildlife sightings. This period offers a unique opportunity to see the parks at their most fertile and beautiful.

    What kind of vehicle is used for a three-day May safari to Serengeti and Ngorongoro?

    We utilize specialized 4x4 Land Cruisers with pop-up roofs to ensure you have an unobstructed view of the animals. These vehicles are equipped with heavy duty suspension to handle the muddy tracks that can sometimes occur during the wet season. Each car also features a fridge for cold drinks and charging points to keep your camera batteries powered up throughout the day.

    Can I customize this short Tanzanian expedition through Serengeti and Ngorongoro to include a hot air balloon flight?

    You can certainly add a sunrise hot air balloon flight over the Serengeti as an extra activity on the second morning of your trip. This aerial perspective allows you to see the green plains from a different angle before you continue with your ground game drives. Please let us know during the booking process so we can secure your space with the balloon operators.

    Is it possible to spot the Big Five during a three-day May safari to Serengeti and Ngorongoro?

    The resident animals in the Ngorongoro Crater do not migrate, so you have an excellent chance of seeing rhinos, lions, and buffaloes in the caldera. In the Serengeti, the predators remain active and are often found lounging on the kopjes to stay dry above the damp grass. Our guides are experts at tracking wildlife even when the vegetation is at its thickest.

    What are the benefits of choosing this specific time for a short Tanzanian expedition through Serengeti and Ngorongoro?

    May is considered the low season, meaning you will encounter far fewer tourists and vehicles at the main wildlife sightings. This allows for a much more private and intimate experience as you explore the vastness of the plains. Many lodges also offer lower rates during this time, making it a great value for travelers seeking high quality service on a budget.

    What type of accommodation is provided during this short wilderness journey?

    We offer a choice of luxury lodges or permanent tented camps that provide excellent protection from the rain and wind. These accommodations feature private en-suite bathrooms, comfortable beds, and quality dining areas where you can relax after a day in the bush. Staying in permanent structures during May ensures you remain dry and warm regardless of the weather outside.

    What essential items should I pack for this short expedition in Northern Tanzania?

    It is vital to bring a high quality waterproof jacket and a pair of sturdy, waterproof shoes to handle the damp conditions. We also recommend packing warm layers for the chilly mornings on the Ngorongoro crater rim. Do not forget to bring insect repellent and your camera with plenty of memory cards to capture the vibrant green scenery.

    How are the roads managed during a short Tanzanian expedition through Serengeti and Ngorongoro in the rainy season?

    Our experienced drivers are skilled at navigating the slippery tracks and know which routes remain accessible even after heavy rainfall. We monitor the weather closely to ensure your safety and comfort while moving between the different park locations. The 4x4 vehicles are specifically maintained to handle these challenging conditions without any issues.

    Can we alter the daily schedule to spend more time birdwatching in May?

    May is a fantastic time for birding as many resident species are in their bright breeding plumage and migratory birds are still present. We can easily adjust the timing of your game drives to focus on the lakes and forested areas where bird activity is highest. Your guide will share their extensive knowledge of the local avian life to enhance your experience.

    Are all meals included in this three-day May safari to Serengeti and Ngorongoro?

    The package is full board, which means you will be provided with breakfast, picnic lunches for the field, and hot dinners at your lodge. We can accommodate various dietary requirements, including vegetarian and vegan options, if you notify us in advance. Each meal is prepared to high standards using fresh ingredients to keep you energized for your adventure.

    REVIEWS FOR 3 Days Experience the Lush Green in Tanzania Safari In May

    Write a Review

    “From Mombasa to the crater in a single day, it was unforgettable.

    5/5

    The landscape was so green and vibrant that it felt like a dream.

    By: Hans Weber
    From: Flag FR

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    by mid-morning we were already watching a pride of lions.”

    5/5

    : Burigi Chato Safaris CO LTD handled everything perfectly even with the wet tracks on the road. Our guide was an absolute expert at finding lions in the tall grass. I loved that we had the crater almost to ourselves because it was the low season. The vehicle was very comfortable and the food at the lodge was surprisingly fresh and delicious.

    By: Sophie Laurent
    From: Flag AU

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    Masterful Guidance, Stunning Views: A Crater Safari

    5/5

    This was the best wildlife experience I have ever had. Seeing the Serengeti in May was special because the colors were so saturated and perfect for my photography. The logistics were smooth and we felt very safe throughout the whole journey.

    By: Marco thomas
    From: Flag AU

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    A wonderful experience that perfectly balanced professional research needs

    5/5

    We saw four of the Big Five in just the first two days of our trip. Burigi Chato Safaris CO LTD provided a fantastic service and the guide knew so much about the birds and plants. Everything was well organized and the lodges were much more luxurious than I expected.

    By: Amanda muller
    From: Flag DE

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    “A long but unforgettable day exploring the world’s largest intact caldera

    5/5

    The Ngorongoro Crater views were breathtaking in the morning light. We enjoyed the peace and quiet of the park without the usual crowds of vehicles.

    By: Johan connor
    From: Flag IT

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    “Spotting the Big Five in one day was unforgettable

    5/5

    A very well managed trip that exceeded all our expectations for a short safari. The greenery was stunning and the animal sightings were constant despite the occasional rain

    By: Emily Watson
    From: Flag DE

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    “Breathtaking rim views and an amazing abundance of wildlife below

    5/5

    I was impressed by the knowledge of our driver and his ability to spot animals from so far away. The tented camp was very cozy and we enjoyed listening to the sounds of nature at night. Burigi Chato Safaris CO LTD made sure we were comfortable and well fed the entire time. It was a truly authentic African adventure that I will never forget.

    By: David Brown
    From: Flag GB

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    The children loved seeing zebras and wildebeests right beside the car.”

    5/5

    I highly recommend Burigi Chato Safaris CO LTD for anyone looking for a professional and exciting tour. The scenery in May is unmatched and the photography opportunities were endless. We had a great time and will definitely be back for a longer safari next year.

    By: Thomas Klein
    From: Flag AU

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    We even spotted four of the Big Five before heading back to the airport.

    5/5

    Everything went according to the plan and we saw so many animals.

    By: Rachel Adams
    From: Flag AU

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    Early Morning Magic: Views That Take Your Breath Away

    5/5

    Burigi Chato Safaris CO LTD delivered exactly what they promised and more. The 4x4 handled the terrain with ease and our guide was very patient with all our questions. It was a fantastic way to see the best of Tanzania in just three days.

    By: James Miller
    From: Flag AU

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