2 Days Private Midrange Safari to Tarangire & Ngorongoro

Planning a safari in Tanzania often feels like a dream—vast savannahs, iconic wildlife, and breathtaking landscapes. This detailed review covers a 2-day private midrange adventure from Moshi that takes you to Tarangire National Park and the Ngorongoro Crater. It’s designed for those seeking a balance of comfort, incredible wildlife sightings, and genuine Tanzanian scenery without breaking the bank.

What really makes this tour shine are the expert guides who bring the parks alive with insightful commentary, the chance to see the Big Five in their natural habitat, and the comfort of mid-luxury lodges. A potential snag? The early mornings and long drives could feel a bit tiring for some, but the payoff is authentic wildlife encounters and stunning vistas.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive safari experience in a short time, with good-quality accommodations and a knowledgeable guide helping navigate the parks. If you’re after a memorable, value-packed adventure with a focus on genuine wildlife sightings, this could be your perfect trip.

Contents show

Key Points

Includes major parks: Tarangire and Ngorongoro, two of Tanzania’s most iconic wildlife destinations
Big Five sightings: Lions, elephants, leopards, buffalos, and rhinos are possible
Comfortable mid-range lodges: staying at Eileens Trees Inn offers a cozy, authentic experience
No hidden fees: transparent pricing covering park fees, transportation, and meals
Expert guides: knowledgeable, engaging guides enhance the experience with local insights
Flexible booking: booking is straightforward with a pay-later option and cancellation flexibility

You can check availability for your dates here:

Introduction: A Short but Rich Safari Experience

This 2-day private safari promises a whirlwind glimpse into Tanzania’s legendary wildlife and landscapes. While it’s designed for travelers with limited time, it doesn’t skimp on the essentials—like seeing elephants in their herds or spotting predators stalking prey**.

We love how the tour combines scenic drives, guided game viewing, and comfortable overnight stays—all tailored for a midrange budget. You’ll appreciate the expert local guides, who know the parks intimately, making every game drive feel like a personalized adventure.

One thing to note: early mornings mean packing your patience (and perhaps a bit of coffee), but the spectacular wildlife sightings and stunning landscapes make it worth it. This experience is best suited for those who want a balanced, authentic safari experience without the luxury price tag.

Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Moshi

Exploring the Itinerary: What to Expect from Start to Finish

Day 1: Journey to Tarangire National Park

The adventure kicks off with a 6:00 AM pickup from Moshi, a drive that lasts around four hours. Expect to pass through rural Tanzania, with glimpses of local life and scenic bush landscapes, setting the scene for your safari.

Upon arriving at Tarangire, the real fun begins. This park’s fame lies in its massive elephant herds and iconic baobab trees. The guide, often someone like Joseph, is well-versed and attentive, pointing out rare bird species and explaining the significance of the park’s geology and ecology.

Your game drive includes spotting lions lounging in the shade, giraffes munching on acacia trees, and zebras grazing in herds. The guides are adept at finding wildlife even in busy park conditions.

A highlight is the picnic lunch at a picturesque spot—imagine sitting beneath a giant baobab with wildlife nearby—making the meal part of the adventure. Afterward, the drive continues with more game viewing before heading to the cozy Eileens Trees Inn in Karatu for the night. Reviewers mention the warm welcome and comfortable rooms make it a relaxing end to a busy day.

Day 2: Descending into Ngorongoro Crater

Early breakfast at the lodge kickstarts your day, as your driver departs around 6:00 AM for the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. The drive is short, but the anticipation is high—this is where the real magic happens.

Descending into the Ngorongoro Crater, often called Africa’s “Garden of Eden,” is a highlight. The crater floor is a lush, fertile bowl filled with wildlife, including lions, hyenas, hippos, flamingos at the lake, and even rhinos—if luck is on your side.

The guides, often local experts, are praised for their keen spotting skills and their storytelling, which adds depth to the experience. You’ll enjoy a picnic lunch at the hippo pool, watching hippos wallow and birds soar overhead—a truly breathtaking setting.

By early afternoon, the safari winds down, and you’ll begin the drive back to Moshi or Arusha, arriving in the evening with memories of an impressive wildlife spectacle.

More Great Tours Nearby

What Does This Tour Offer in Terms of Value?

Prefer keeping things personal? Here are more private experiences we've reviewed in Moshi

Price and Inclusions

At $1,200 per person, this safari offers excellent value for a two-day adventure. The price covers park fees, all activities, accommodation, transportation, meals, and taxes—meaning no hidden costs.

The accommodation at Eileens Trees Inn is described as mid-luxury, providing a comfortable base while still feeling authentic and connected to local life. Reviewers mention the clean rooms, good food, and welcoming staff, which elevate the experience beyond just a standard camping or budget lodge.

Guides and Transportation

Having a professional driver/guide is one of the most valued aspects. They’re not just drivers but storytellers and wildlife sleuths, making game viewing more engaging. The vehicle is likely a well-maintained safari jeep, ideal for game drives and able to handle the park roads comfortably.

Meals and Amenities

Meals are included, with packed lunches and dinners at the lodge. Reviewers note that drinking water is provided on all days, and bathrooms are available at every gate and picnic site, adding convenience. WiFi is accessible during the safari, a bonus for those wishing to share their sightings in real-time.

Authentic Experiences and Highlights

Big Five Safari

The chance to see all five of the Big Five—lions, elephants, leopards, buffalos, and rhinos—is a significant draw. While no safari can guarantee sightings, local guides’ knowledge improves your odds considerably.

Wildlife Diversity

Beyond the Big Five, expect to see giraffes, zebras, hyenas, flamingos, and hippos. Several reviews mention spotting hyenas and flamingos at the crater, which adds a vibrant splash of color and activity.

Stunning Views and Photography

Guided by experienced guides, you’ll find plenty of photo opportunities—from the towering baobabs in Tarangire to the crater’s lush floor. Reviewers highlight the guides’ ability to help capture perfect moments, especially when lions are lounging or elephants parade across the plains.

Practical Tips for the Tour

Wear comfortable shoes and clothes suitable for early mornings and variable weather.
Bring sunscreen and a hat—protection from the sun is essential in Tanzania’s open parks.
Avoid flash photography to respect wildlife and park rules.
Pack a sense of patience; game viewing can require time, but the sightings are worth it.
Tipping guides is customary; a guideline of about US$10 per day per person is appreciated.

Important Considerations

The safari isn’t suitable for travelers with back or heart problems or those over 95 years old.
Bathroom facilities are available at every park gate and picnic site, but don’t expect luxury amenities deep inside the parks.
The tour is flexible with a pay-later reservation and offers full refunds if canceled 24 hours in advance.

The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Safari?

This 2-day private adventure offers a solid balance of wildlife encounters, comfortable accommodations, and expert guiding. It’s perfect for travelers with limited time who want to maximize their Tanzania experience without sacrificing comfort or authenticity.

The inclusion of big parks like Tarangire and Ngorongoro ensures you see a wide variety of wildlife, while the professional guides and good lodges make the journey enjoyable and stress-free. The transparent pricing is a bonus, making it easier to plan your trip without surprises.

However, if you’re seeking an ultra-luxury experience or have mobility issues, this might not be the best fit. For those craving a well-rounded, value-driven safari with plenty of wildlife and stunning scenery, this tour hits the mark.

Overall, it’s a worthwhile choice for anyone eager to see Tanzania’s most famous parks in a short, memorable trip—balancing adventure, comfort, and affordability.

FAQ

What is included in the price?
Park fees, all activities, accommodation, transportation, meals, taxes, and drinking water are included.

Are there any hidden costs?
No, the tour is transparent—what you pay covers everything except optional extras like tips or personal items.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunscreen, lightweight clothes, and a sense of adventure.

Is WiFi available during the safari?
Yes, WiFi is available while on safari, making it easier to share your wildlife moments.

Can I book this tour and pay later?
Yes, you can reserve your spot now and pay later, with flexible cancellation options if needed.

How long does the journey from Moshi to Tarangire take?
Approximately four hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
It’s not recommended for people over 95 or those with back or heart problems.

What wildlife can I expect to see?
Big Five (lions, elephants, leopards, buffalos, rhinos), giraffes, zebras, hyenas, flamingos, and hippos.

Will I stay in luxury lodges?
While not ultra-luxury, the accommodations are comfortable, mid-range lodges offering a cozy, authentic experience.

This safari from Major Treks & Safaris delivers a genuine taste of Tanzania’s wildlife and landscapes, perfect for those seeking a balanced, memorable adventure.