Traveling through Tanzania’s breathtaking landscapes and spotting iconic wildlife in just two days sounds ambitious, but this safari manages to deliver an impressive dose of adventure without breaking the bank. For those craving close encounters with elephants, lions, and rhinos, combined with stunning scenery and authentic camp life, this trip could be just the ticket.
What makes this tour stand out? First, the expert guides and friendly staff ensure a safe, smooth experience. Second, the opportunity to see the Big Five in their natural habitat—especially the elusive rhinos—is a treat for wildlife enthusiasts. Third, the delicious, home-cooked meals and comfortable accommodations provide a cozy touch after long days on safari.
That said, the itinerary is quite packed, and you’ll cover a lot of ground in a short time, which might feel rushed for some. Plus, the cost, while reasonable, can seem steep compared to other options, especially considering some travelers noted price variations. This tour suits travelers who are eager for a guided, all-inclusive experience that balances adventure with comfort and who don’t mind early mornings and long game drives.
Key Points
- Expert guides enhance the experience with valuable insights into wildlife and landscapes.
- Two iconic parks—Tarangire and Ngorongoro—offer diverse scenery and incredible animal sightings.
- All-inclusive package covers meals, park fees, accommodations, and transportation.
- Wildlife encounters include elephants, lions, cheetahs, rhinos, giraffes, and more.
- Authentic experiences with local guides and comfortable camping or lodge stays.
- Good for first-timers and wildlife lovers ready for a compact but rich safari adventure.
An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary and Experience
Looking for more options in Arusha Region? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
Starting Point: Hotel Pickup and Transfer to Tarangire
Your adventure kicks off early around 7:30 AM, with a pickup from your Arusha hotel. The transfer to Tarangire National Park takes about two hours, giving you time to settle in and get excited about what’s ahead. The journey itself offers glimpses of rural Tanzania, setting the scene for your safari adventure.
Exploring Tarangire National Park
Once inside Tarangire, your guide—likely Malissa, who receives high praise—will lead the game drive. Tarangire is famous for its massive ancient Baobab trees and the largest concentration of elephants in Tanzania. Expect to see herds of elephants wandering near the Tarangire River, which is alive with wildlife.
Your guide’s knowledge transforms the drive into a storytelling session, pointing out lions lounging in the shade, cheetahs stalking prey, and giraffes nibbling on treetops. As one reviewer noted, Malissa’s friendly, informative guidance made all the difference, enriching the experience with facts and anecdotes.
Later, you’ll stop at the Tarangire River picnic site—a picture-perfect spot where you can relax, enjoy your packed lunch, and soak in the views of animals crossing the river. This moment often becomes a highlight, with travelers remarking on the peaceful vibe and the chance to watch wildlife in their natural habitat.
In the afternoon, you’ll continue your game drive before exiting the park around 4:30 PM. The return to your lodge or campsite sets the stage for a cozy dinner, where many meals are appreciated for their hearty, home-cooked quality—something that reviewers have consistently praised.
Transition to Ngorongoro
After a restful night, your early start on day two means breakfast around 6 AM before heading to Ngorongoro Crater. The drive itself is scenic, with panoramic views that build anticipation for the crater’s famous wildlife spectacle.
More Great Tours NearbyDescending into Ngorongoro Crater
The Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is often described as a natural amphitheater filled with wildlife. As you descend into the crater, you’ll be greeted by breathtaking views and the chance to spot animals that are a challenge elsewhere—particularly the rare black rhinos.
Your guide will help you scan the dense wildlife populations, which include lions basking in the sun, herds of wildebeest, and giraffes strolling across the grassy plains. The crater’s ecology is unique, thanks to its enclosed environment that supports such a high density of animals.
After lunch, another game drive takes you to explore further, giving you ample chances to see the Big Five, even if some animals are shy or elusive. One reviewer described the experience as “outstanding,” especially highlighting the guide’s expert knowledge and the stunning scenery.
Wrapping Up and Return to Arusha
Mid-afternoon, you’ll ascend from the crater and head back to Arusha, reflecting on the incredible sights and wildlife encounters. The entire trip offers a perfect blend of adventure, comfort, and cultural authenticity, especially with the included accommodations.
What’s Included and What’s Not
This safari offers a comprehensive package—all park entrance fees, taxes, meals, soft drinks, water, and accommodations are taken care of. The convenience of having everything organized means fewer logistics for you to worry about.
However, travelers should note that flights and visas are not included, so you’ll need to arrange those separately. The tour is also not suitable for children under three, or travelers with mobility challenges or back problems, due to the nature of the terrain and early mornings.
Transport and Comfort
The transportation is typically in a well-maintained 4×4 vehicle, with enough space for everyone and amenities like electricity, as some reviews mention. The group size tends to be small, fostering a more personalized experience. Reviewers frequently highlight the professionalism and friendliness of guides, with Malisa receiving special praise for his knowledge and patience.
Food and Accommodation
Meals are home-cooked and served in a manner that surprises many—reviewers note the delicious, hearty dinners and the authenticity of the meals served at the lodges. Staying overnight in a comfortable lodge or camp adds to the authentic safari feeling, without sacrificing comfort.
Cost and Value
At $800 per person, this tour strikes a decent balance of affordability and quality. Reviewers have pointed out a wide variation in prices—some paid less, some more—highlighting that the value truly depends on the experience and guides you get. Many feel the experience is worth the cost, especially considering the included meals, park fees, and accommodations.
The guides’ local expertise and attentive service significantly enhance the value, transforming what could be a simple drive into an enriching adventure.
Authentic Encounters and Personal Touches
Beyond mere wildlife sightings, many travelers appreciated the personalized attention and friendly guides like Malisa and Lucas, who made them feel comfortable and well-informed. The small-group format allows for more interaction and tailored observation, often cited as a plus.
Highlights Highlighted by Reviewers
- Wildlife sightings, including lions, cheetahs, and elephants
- Beautiful scenery and panoramic views
- Delicious, home-cooked meals
- Knowledgeable guides who share insights and stories
- Comfortable accommodations that feel authentic but cozy
- Smooth organization and customer service
Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?
This safari is ideal for first-time visitors to Tanzania who want a comprehensive, guided experience. It’s perfect if you’re looking to maximize wildlife sightings in a short time without the hassle of planning logistics yourself. The tour also suits travelers who value authentic, local-guided experiences with a friendly, professional touch.
If you’re comfortable with early mornings, long drives, and want to enjoy the full flavor of Tanzania’s most famous parks, this trip delivers on all fronts. However, those with mobility issues or sensitive backs might want to consider other options.
FAQ
Are meals included in this tour?
Yes, all meals, soft drinks, and water are included, with many reviewers praising the quality and home-cooked style of the food.
Is this a group or private tour?
The tour generally operates in small groups, creating a more intimate experience and allowing guides to tailor the game drives.
Can I see the Big Five on this trip?
Yes, the tour is designed to give you the best chance to see lions, elephants, rhinos, cheetahs, and leopards, with Ngorongoro Crater being particularly renowned for its rhinos.
What should I bring?
Bring bug spray, comfortable clothing, hat, sunglasses, and a camera. Early mornings mean cool temperatures, so layers are recommended.
How is the transportation?
Transport is in a well-equipped 4×4 vehicle, praised for comfort and reliability. Electricity and enough space are common features.
Are accommodations included?
Yes, during the safari, you’ll stay at a lodge or campsite that reviewers found cozy and authentic, often with good dining options.
What if I have booking issues?
Some reviews mention minor booking problems that were resolved, with excellent customer support. It’s advisable to confirm your reservation early.
Is this tour suitable for children?
No, the tour is not suitable for children under 3 years or travelers with mobility challenges.
Final Thoughts
This two-day safari offers a compelling snapshot of Tanzania’s wildlife and landscapes, especially for those who want a well-organized, guided experience. The focus on authentic encounters, combined with knowledgeable guides and comfortable accommodations, makes it a good choice for first-timers or wildlife enthusiasts eager to tick off iconic species like elephants and rhinos.
While it’s not the cheapest option available, the value lies in the in-depth experience, expert guiding, and all-inclusive convenience. Expect early mornings, long drives, and a fair bit of adventure, but also plenty of memorable moments and stunning scenery.
This safari is best suited for travelers who crave a balanced mix of wildlife, comfort, and cultural authenticity, and who appreciate the value of having experienced guides to unlock the secrets of these incredible parks. For anyone wanting a true taste of Tanzanian nature and wildlife in just two days, it’s a trip worth considering.
You can check availability for your dates here: