2 Days Tarangire and Ngorongoro Mid Luxury Safari & Flights

Traveling from Zanzibar to Tanzania’s iconic parks in just two days might sound ambitious, but this Mid Luxury Safari package from Major Treks & Safaris packs a surprising punch. It offers the chance to see some of Africa’s most famous wildlife while enjoying comfortable accommodations and smooth logistics, all at a reasonable price of $1,610 per person.

We particularly appreciate how this tour combines the best of Tarangire National Park and the Ngorongoro Crater, two of Tanzania’s most stunning wildlife destinations, with flights included for seamless transfers. The fact that it’s tailored as a “mid-luxury” experience means you’ll get the comforts of higher-end lodges without the hefty price tag, making it an excellent value for those looking to indulge a little without going full-on luxury.

One thing to keep in mind is the tight schedule—flying between Zanzibar and Arusha means less time on the ground, which could be a consideration if you’re craving a more relaxed pace. But overall, this safari is well-suited for travelers eager to pack in a wildlife adventure with efficient logistics and a touch of comfort. Perfect for those with limited time but high expectations for seeing Africa’s wildlife in their habitat.

Key Points

• Convenient flight transfer from Zanzibar to Arusha simplifies logistics.
• Includes park fees and all activities, reducing surprises on the ground.
• Luxury lodges with comfortable amenities complement the wildlife experience.
• Focus on Big Five and large elephant herds makes this a classic safari.
• Cultural experience with an optional Maasai Village visit.
• Short but packed itinerary perfect for travelers with limited time.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Honest Breakdown of the 2-Day Safari

Starting with the Travel: Flights and Transfers

The tour begins with an early morning pickup from your Zanzibar hotel, followed by a flight to Arusha. For many travelers, this is a major plus—flying saves hours of driving, and the included flights mean no stress about transportation logistics. Upon arrival, a comfortable drive takes you straight to Tarangire.

Travel tip: Flights are domestic only, so if you’re planning international travel, you’ll need to coordinate your flights accordingly. The transfer from the airport to Tarangire is smooth, with a professional guide ready to brief you on the day ahead.

Day 1: Tarangire National Park

Tarangire is famous for its large elephant herds and ancient baobab trees. Your full day here will be filled with game drives where you’ll witness zebras, wildebeests, giraffes, and waterbucks. Predators like lions, cheetahs, and leopards are also common sights, especially during the early morning and late afternoon.

The park’s varied landscape, with its lush swamps and dry plains, attracts a wide array of birdlife—flocks of colorful lovebirds, tall herons, and the giants of the bird world, ostriches. Reviewers mention the park’s “amazing birdlife” and “vast herds of elephants” as highlights. One guest noted, “We loved the way the elephants seemed to be everywhere, especially around the waterholes.”

After an exhilarating day, you’ll head back to Jungle Pearl Resort, where the blend of luxury accommodations and natural surroundings makes for a peaceful stay. Expect comfortable rooms, good food, and maybe even a safari sunset from your lodge’s veranda.

Day 2: Ngorongoro Crater and Cultural Encounter

The second day kicks off with a drive to the Ngorongoro Crater, often called Africa’s ‘Garden of Eden’ due to its lush, fertile floor home to a multitude of wildlife. The crater’s unique ecosystem supports endangered black rhinos, giant tusked elephants, lions, cheetahs, and a variety of gazelles—all within a relatively small area.

This full-day game drive offers some of the best chances to see the Big Five. The consistent water supply and abundant grazing make the crater a wildlife magnet. Many reviews emphasize how astonishing it is to see such diverse animals in one place—”It’s like a zoo, but all in the wild.”

Optional visits to a Maasai Village can enrich your understanding of local culture, where you’ll meet Maasai elders and learn about their traditions—an authentic bonus that complements the wildlife safari.

After the game drive, you’ll be transferred to the airport for your flight back to Zanzibar, ending your whirlwind trip with memories of incredible wildlife and stunning landscapes.

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What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Comfortable, Well-Planned Logistics

The inclusion of domestic flights is a game changer—no long drives or bumpy roads, which means you get more time on game drives. The timing is tight but efficient, allowing you to maximize wildlife viewing without feeling rushed.

Quality Accommodation and Food

Staying in beautiful luxury lodges offers a nice balance—enjoying comforts after long days of exploring. Guests express appreciation for the “clean, comfortable rooms” and the “delicious local cuisine” served at the lodges.

Focused on Iconic Wildlife

From the elephants of Tarangire to the big cats and rhinos of Ngorongoro, this tour hits the highlights. According to reviews, the game viewing is excellent, with many guests noting that the animals often come surprisingly close during drives.

Cultural Exposure

The optional Maasai Village visit offers a peek into one of Tanzania’s last nomadic communities. Reviewers have praised this as a meaningful addition, providing insight into local life and traditions.

Value for Money

For $1,610, travelers receive park fees, all activities, accommodation, meals, and flights, making it a cost-effective way to see some of Africa’s top wildlife spots with minimal planning hassle.

Possible Drawbacks and Considerations

While the itinerary is packed and efficient, some travelers might find the schedule a bit rushed—particularly if you prefer a more leisurely pace to soak in the scenery and take photographs. The tour is designed for those who want a snapshot of Tanzania’s wildlife in a short time.

Plus, since it’s a mid-luxury experience, expectations of comfort are higher than budget safaris, but it’s not full luxury either, which can be a good balance for most travelers.

Finally, this tour isn’t suitable for people with back problems or heart issues due to the nature of game drives and vehicle transfers. It’s also not recommended for those over age 95 or with visual impairments.

Practical Tips for Your Safari

• Pack comfortable shoes for walking and light, breathable clothing for game drives.
• Bring swimwear if your lodge has a pool or hot springs.
• Respect park rules: no littering, feeding animals, fireworks, noise, or fires.
• Keep in mind that upgrades to luxury accommodations may be available, so enquire if you want extra comfort.
• Confirm your flight times beforehand and arrive at the airport early on departure day.

The Bottom Line: Who Is This Safari Best For?

This 2-day safari offers a smart mix of wildlife viewing, cultural insight, and comfortable travel, all wrapped into a well-organized package. It’s an excellent choice for short-term travelers who want a taste of Tanzania’s wildlife without sacrificing comfort or convenience. Perfect for those with limited time but high wildlife ambitions, especially if flying between Zanzibar and Arusha fits into your overall trip plan.

If you’re someone who appreciates modern amenities after long days of spotting animals, this tour ticks the box. It’s also a good fit for travelers who want a balanced experience—combining game drives with a cultural visit and enjoying good food and cozy lodges.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable if I want to see the Big Five?
Yes, the Ngorongoro Crater is renowned for its high concentration of Big Five animals, and the tour specifically aims to maximize chances of seeing lions, elephants, rhinos, buffalo, and leopards.

Are flights included in the price?
Yes, the tour covers all domestic flights during the itinerary, making logistics smoother and saving time.

What type of accommodation is provided?
You’ll stay in beautiful luxury lodges that offer comfort and good amenities. Upgrades to even more luxurious options may be available.

How long are the game drives?
You can expect full-day game drives in both Tarangire and Ngorongoro, typically lasting several hours with breaks for meals and rest.

Is this tour suitable for children or seniors?
It’s not recommended for people with back or heart problems, or those over 95. For children, it depends on their age and health; consult with the provider beforehand.

What should I bring for the safari?
Comfortable shoes, lightweight clothes, sun protection, and a camera are essentials. Swimwear might be nice if your lodge has a pool or hot springs.

Can I visit a Maasai Village?
Yes, this tour offers an optional visit, providing insight into the Maasai culture and traditions.

Is this a private or group tour?
This particular offering appears to be a group experience, but details may vary—check with the provider for private options.

What’s the best time of year to take this safari?
While not specified, Tanzania generally offers great wildlife viewing during the dry seasons—June to October and December to February.

In total, this safari offers a compact, comfortable, and wildlife-rich experience that’s hard to beat for those short on time but eager to witness Tanzania’s incredible animals and landscapes.

You can check availability for your dates here: