Moshi: 2-Day Tarangire and Ngorongoro Crater Safari

Planning a quick but impactful safari adventure from Moshi? This 2-day tour promises a concentrated dose of Tanzania’s most iconic wildlife experiences, from the towering elephants of Tarangire to the dense predator-filled Ngorongoro Crater. It’s a popular choice for travelers short on time but eager to see some of Africa’s greatest natural spectacles.

What makes this trip stand out? First, you’ll be with professional guides known for their knowledge and friendly approach. Second, the chance to witness large herds of elephants and rare black rhinos feels truly special. Lastly, the combination of two distinct parks offers a varied safari experience—diverse landscapes, animal populations, and photographic opportunities.

On the flip side, a potential challenge might be the tight schedule—two parks in two days mean a lot of driving and early mornings. Also, if you’re sensitive to long hours in a vehicle or prefer a more relaxed pace, this might feel a bit rushed. Still, for those who want a focused taste of Tanzania’s wildlife treasures, this tour delivers.

This experience is ideal for adventurous travelers, wildlife enthusiasts with limited time, or anyone seeking a cost-effective way to maximize their safari sightings without sacrificing quality.

Key Points

• Two parks in one tour – Tarangire and Ngorongoro Crater, offering a variety of landscapes and animals.
• Large herds and rare species – home to Africa’s largest elephants and last remaining black rhinos.
• Expert guides – knowledgeable and friendly, enhancing your understanding and experience.
• Picnic lunches – enjoyed in natural settings, adding to the authentic feel.
• Convenient from Moshi – perfect for travelers based there, with seamless pickup and drop-off.
• Value for money – considering the scope of wildlife and included meals, the price is competitive.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Day 1: From Moshi to Tarangire National Park

After a prompt morning pickup in Moshi, your adventure kicks off with a scenic drive toward Tarangire. The landscape changes markedly as you leave the mountains behind, transitioning into the low-lying hills and vast plains of the park. Known for its acacia woodland and giant Baobab trees, Tarangire’s landscape is instantly recognizable.

The park’s Tarangire River is the main water source during the dry season, creating a natural magnet for animals. We loved the way guides explain how the river and swamp areas concentrate wildlife, especially during droughts, making game sightings more predictable. The guides are adept at spotting animals early, often pointing out subtle signs of predators or rare birds like bateleurs and martial eagles.

Your day includes two game drives—morning and late afternoon—giving plenty of opportunities to see herds of elephants, along with giraffes, gazelles, and hartebeests. The guides tend to focus on animal behavior and ecology, which adds educational depth to the experience.

Picnic lunch is served in the park—an authentic experience that allows you to enjoy your meal surrounded by the sounds of the wild. By the end of the day, you’ll settle into your hotel for dinner, with plenty of stories to recount.

Day 2: The Iconic Ngorongoro Crater

Bright and early, you descend 600 meters into the Ngorongoro Crater, often called Africa’s “Garden of Eden”. The crater is a natural amphitheater that offers a compact, dense wildlife population within a stunning volcanic landscape.

The guided game drive here is a highlight. Expect to see wildebeest, zebra, buffalo, and eland, along with large elephants and hippos in the crater’s lakes. The guides mention that the crater supports around 30,000 animals—a number that’s easy to believe once you’re inside. Several reviews describe how the diversity of species is astonishing, with many animals visible in just a few hours.

The dense predator population, including lions, hyenas, and cheetahs, makes every drive exciting. A reviewer notes that the guides are “especially good at tracking big cats,” which is a huge plus for wildlife lovers. The opportunity to spot black rhinos, one of Tanzania’s last remaining, is particularly meaningful.

Like the previous day, a picnic lunch is enjoyed within the crater, with panoramic views enhancing the experience. Afterward, you head back to Moshi or Arusha, concluding your safari with plenty of memories and stunning photos.

This safari package covers all essentials—a professional guide, transportation in a safari vehicle, meals, and game drives. It’s designed to be straightforward, focusing on maximizing wildlife sightings without unnecessary fuss.

Travelers should pack comfortable shoes, warm clothing, a hat, sunscreen, and binoculars to get the most out of the game drives. Bring a camera with a good zoom—many reviewers mention that the guides’ spotting skills help you capture amazing wildlife shots.

Some reviews highlight the guides’ enthusiasm and knowledge, making the drives not just about spotting animals but understanding their behaviors and habitats. This adds value, especially for those interested in learning as much as experiencing.

The tour’s price of $1,530 per person reflects the inclusion of park fees, guides, transportation, and meals. Considering the quality of wildlife viewing, this is a reasonable investment—particularly when compared to multi-day safaris that can cost significantly more. It’s a cost-effective option for a substantial wildlife experience in Tanzania.

Important considerations

The tour is not suitable for children under 5, pregnant women, or those with back problems, due to the long hours in the vehicle and the physical demands of the safari. Also, littering, feeding animals, smoking, alcohol, and drugs are prohibited to protect the environment and wildlife.

This 2-day safari from Moshi offers a condensed but comprehensive introduction to Tanzania’s most famous parks. You’ll witness some of Africa’s most iconic animals—huge herds of elephants, the elusive black rhino, and predator-packed plains—all within a tight schedule. The inclusion of expert guides makes a significant difference, enriching your understanding and spotting chances.

The combination of Tarangire’s scenic landscape and Ngorongoro’s dense animal populations means you’ll leave with a well-rounded impression of Tanzania’s wilderness. The picnic lunches, comfortable transportation, and well-organized itinerary make this a practical choice for travelers eager to see a lot in a short period.

However, the intense schedule may be tiring for some, and those seeking a slower, more relaxed pace might prefer longer safaris. But if your goal is to maximize wildlife sightings and experience the highlights of northern Tanzania in just two days, this tour does not disappoint.

Overall, it’s an excellent value for wildlife enthusiasts, first-time safari-goers, or anyone wanting a focused, immersive Tanzanian adventure without a hefty price tag.

What parks are included in this safari?
It includes visits to both Tarangire National Park and Ngorongoro Crater, offering a variety of landscapes and wildlife populations.

How long are the game drives?
Typically, there are morning and afternoon game drives each day, giving ample time to see animals and take photos.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, warm clothing, a hat, sunscreen, a camera, and binoculars are recommended to enhance your experience.

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, it’s not recommended for children under 5 years due to the vehicle time and activity level.

Are meals included?
Yes, breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included, with picnic lunches served inside the parks.

Can I book this tour last-minute?
Yes, you can reserve your spot and pay later, offering flexibility for your travel plans.

What are the main wildlife highlights?
Large herds of elephants, the last remaining black rhinos, lions, cheetahs, hyenas, and various antelope species.

How experienced are the guides?
Guides are noted for their knowledgeable and friendly approach, often providing insightful commentary.

Is transportation comfortable?
Transportation is provided in a safari vehicle, designed for game viewing and long drives, ensuring a comfortable ride.

This 2-day safari from Moshi offers a practical, engaging way to see some of Tanzania’s most famous animals and landscapes. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned safari lover, the combination of wildlife, scenery, and expert guiding makes it a truly memorable experience.