2-Days Safari Tarangire Park and Ngorongoro Crater

Exploring Tanzania in Two Days: A Practical and Authentic Safari Experience

Our review of the 2-Day Safari to Tarangire National Park and Ngorongoro Crater offers a window into what’s truly special about this compact yet comprehensive adventure. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, the detailed information, glowing reviews, and careful planning suggest it’s a fantastic option for anyone eager to see the highlights of Tanzania’s wildlife in a short time.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the inclusion of transportation, meals, and accommodation means no hidden costs or surprises, making it highly accessible for travelers on a budget. Second, the small-group setting fosters a more personalized experience, guided by knowledgeable professionals who know how to spot those elusive Big Five animals. Lastly, the efficient itinerary packs two impressive parks into just 2 days, ideal for those with tight schedules or wanting a quick wildlife fix.

However, some travelers have experienced minor hiccups, such as booking mishaps, which highlight the importance of confirming details beforehand. This safari is best suited for adventurers seeking value, authenticity, and efficient wildlife encounters without sacrificing comfort or expert guidance.

Key Points

• Two Parks in One Trip: Maximize your wildlife sightings by visiting Tarangire and Ngorongoro Crater in just 2 days.
• All-Inclusive Pricing: Fees, meals, and accommodation are included, helping you avoid extra expenses.
• Small-Group Experience: With a maximum of 7 travelers, you’ll benefit from personalized attention and expert guiding.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides greatly increase your chances of seeing Africa’s Big Five, adding value to your experience.
• Convenient Pickup and Return: Starts and ends in Arusha with hassle-free transportation.
• Authentic, Budget-Friendly Safari: At $710 per person, this tour offers a solid balance of affordability and quality.

A Close Look at the 2-Day Safari Experience

The Booking and Pricing

For $710 per person, this 2-day safari packs in a lot. When considering the cost, it’s important to recognize that fees, meals, and accommodations are all included. This means what you see is what you get—no surprise extras—making budgeting easier and stress-free. The small-group size (up to 7 travelers) ensures a more intimate experience, which is a rarity in many commercial safaris.

While some reviews mention booking mishaps, like a missed ticket for a family member, these appear to be isolated issues rather than the norm. Always double-check your booking details and confirm with the operator before the trip begins. The tour starts early at 8:00 am from the Clocktower Roundabout in Arusha, making the most of daylight hours for game viewing.

Day 1: Tarangire National Park

The tour kicks off with a pickup from your hotel in Arusha, accompanied by a private vehicle. The drive to Tarangire takes around 2-3 hours—an easy, comfortable journey. Arriving in Tarangire, you’ll be greeted by a park rich with wildlife; here, the focus is on spotting large herds of elephants, giraffes, impalas, lions, buffalo, and zebras. The park’s diverse terrain supports around 300 bird species, making it a paradise for bird lovers.

What we love about Tarangire is how it offers a wide range of animals in a relatively small area, plus the chance to see endemic species that are unique to this part of Tanzania. The game drive lasts approximately 7 hours with a picnic lunch, so bring your binoculars and camera. The guide’s expertise is crucial here, especially in spotting elusive predators or shy herbivores hiding in the bushes.

After a full day of game viewing, you’ll head to your campsite for dinner and an overnight stay. The campsite provides a rustic yet comfortable base, perfect for resting after an exciting day. Many reviewers point out the guides’ knowledge and their ability to find animals, with one noting that the guides were “excellent” at spotting game even in thick bush.

Day 2: Ngorongoro Crater

Bright and early, you’ll leave the campsite after breakfast and travel to Ngorongoro Crater, about a 2-hour drive. Known as one of the best places on Earth to see wildlife, the crater is a UNESCO World Heritage site and often referred to as Africa’s “Garden of Eden.” It’s a volcanic caldera, approximately 20 km across, hosting a dense concentration of animals.

Here, you’ll enjoy another game drive, this time focusing on the Big Five—lions, elephants, buffalo, leopards, and rhinos. The crater’s unique environment supports a wide variety of species, including zebras, wildebeests, hyenas, and flamingos. The presence of water and lush vegetation means this is one of the most reliable places to spot wildlife in Tanzania.

The guide’s insights during this drive often include interesting facts about the animals and the crater’s geology, making it both an enjoyable and educational experience. After a comprehensive game drive, you’ll begin the return journey to Arusha, arriving in the late afternoon or early evening.

The Guides and Transportation

Throughout the tour, private transportation ensures comfort and convenience. The guides are praised for their expertise, with reviews highlighting their ability to spot animals and provide insightful commentary. Their knowledge significantly enhances the chances of seeing the Big Five and understanding the animals’ behaviors.

The small-group format fosters a friendly atmosphere and allows for more flexibility—whether it’s stopping for photos or adjusting the schedule based on animal sightings. The vehicle’s design and the timing of drives maximize wildlife visibility while respecting the animals’ natural routines.

Practical Considerations

Timing is key: starting at 8:00 am guarantees full days of game viewing. The tour’s inclusive nature means you don’t need to worry about meals or entry fees, which are covered in the price. However, travelers should be aware that beverages are not included and tips are optional, as with most safaris.

Some reviewers mention minor mishaps, such as booking issues, emphasizing the importance of verifying details beforehand. Also, since the tour concludes back at the meeting point in Arusha, it’s ideal for travelers with flexible plans afterward.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This safari appeals most to travelers who want a value-packed, authentic African safari experience without sacrificing comfort or expert guidance. It’s suitable for those with a tight schedule but still eager to experience Tanzania’s top wildlife parks. The small-group setting makes it ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers who prefer a more intimate adventure.

If you’re someone who appreciates knowledgeable guides and a well-organized itinerary, this tour is a good match. However, those seeking a luxury experience or a very personalized, private tour might want to explore other options.

The Sum Up

This 2-Day Safari to Tarangire and Ngorongoro Crater offers a robust snapshot of Tanzania’s iconic wildlife in a short timeframe. For around $710, you gain not only entrance to two of Africa’s most famous parks but also the company of experienced guides who know how to spot game and make the most of your limited days.

The all-inclusive nature reduces stress and planning, making it an excellent choice for travelers who want a straightforward, dependable safari. The small-group format enhances the experience, creating a more personal connection with the guides and fellow travelers.

While minor booking issues have been reported, the overall feedback remains positive, especially regarding the guides’ expertise and the quality of wildlife sightings. If you’re after a balanced, authentic, and value-driven safari, this tour is well worth considering.

FAQ

What is included in the price?
Fees, meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner), accommodation, private transportation, and airport transfer are all included, making the trip straightforward and hassle-free.

How many people will be in the group?
The tour maxes out at 7 travelers, ensuring a small, intimate experience with personalized attention from your guide.

What parks will I visit?
You’ll explore Tarangire National Park on Day 1 and Ngorongoro Crater on Day 2, both famous for their abundant wildlife.

What wildlife can I expect to see?
You can expect to see elephants, lions, buffalo, giraffes, zebras, rhinos, and possibly leopards or cheetahs. Bird enthusiasts will enjoy over 300 species.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While most travelers can participate, you should consider the early mornings, long drives, and exposure to wildlife. Always check with the tour provider if traveling with children.

Can I customize the itinerary?
This is a fixed 2-day tour, but small-group experiences often allow some flexibility—check with Simba Adventures for any special requests.

What should I bring?
Bring your camera, binoculars, sun protection, and comfortable clothes suitable for game drives. Remember, beverages aren’t included, so carry drinking water.

How do I confirm my booking?
Booking confirmation is received upon purchase, but it’s advisable to verify your reservation directly with Simba Adventures to avoid any surprises.

This safari offers a wonderful opportunity to tick off two of Tanzania’s most renowned parks in a manageable, well-organized package. Whether you’re on a tight schedule or just want an authentic taste of African wildlife, it’s a trip that balances adventure, comfort, and expert guidance.