Tanzania: 2 Day Safari Tarangire & Ngorongoro Crater

Planning a quick getaway into the wilds of Tanzania? This 2-day safari to Tarangire National Park and Ngorongoro Crater offers a fantastic snapshot of some of Africa’s most spectacular scenery and wildlife. Whether you’re on a tight schedule or looking for a memorable add-on after climbing Kilimanjaro, this tour packs a punch with its prime locations and expert guidance.

What we love about this experience? First, the chance to see elephants in large herds in Tarangire, with its iconic baobab trees forming the perfect backdrop. Second, the opportunity to explore the world’s largest intact volcanic caldera, Ngorongoro, teeming with predators and prey alike. Lastly, the comfortable mid-range lodging makes the whole journey more relaxing.

One possible consideration is the tight schedule—if you’re interested in detailed photography or more leisurely exploration, this might feel a bit rushed. Still, for those wanting a taste of Tanzania’s best in a short time, it’s a well-organized, value-packed option.

This safari suits travelers seeking efficient, guided wildlife viewing, especially those combining it with other adventures in Tanzania or Africa. Families are welcome, with discounts for children, making it a versatile choice for various groups.

Key Points

Prime Locations: Visit Tarangire’s iconic baobabs and elephants, plus Ngorongoro’s incredible crater floor.
Expert Guides: Led by knowledgeable safari guides with extensive experience, enhancing your chances to spot wildlife.
All-Inclusive: Entrance fees, park fees, food, accommodations, and transport are covered, providing clear upfront costs.
Flexible Booking: Private tours, customizable itineraries, and the option to depart any day suit different schedules.
Short & Sweet: Perfect as a quick safari from Arusha or Kilimanjaro, giving a fulfilling experience in just two days.
Family Friendly: Children of all ages can join, with discounts and suitable arrangements for families.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Experience

Starting Point & Logistics

Your adventure kicks off in Arusha, with pickup from your hotel or directly from Kilimanjaro International Airport. The tour is designed for flexibility—depart any day and enjoy a private safari experience, avoiding crowded group trips. The journey begins early at 7:00 AM, giving you a head start on the wildlife and avoiding the midday heat.

Day 1: Exploring Tarangire National Park

The drive from Arusha to Tarangire takes around 2.5 to 3 hours, covering about 106 km (65 miles). The early start is crucial; by arriving at the park in the morning, you’re likely to encounter animals at their most active.

The full-day game drive in Tarangire is the highlight. Known for its large elephant herds, this park is a photographer’s dream—dwarfing trees and bushes, the elephants wade through the Tarangire River, creating unforgettable scenes. The landscape is marked by towering baobab trees, which give the scenery an almost surreal quality.

As you traverse the park, you’ll stand a good chance of seeing lions, leopards, cheetahs, and various antelopes like lesser kudu and eland. The park’s varied terrain means you’ll also spot buffalo, giraffes, zebras, and oryx.

Lunch is packed, allowing you to enjoy a scenic picnic amidst the wildlife—something many reviews highlight as a memorable part of the day. Travelers often comment on the “delicious food” and the “peaceful setting” for their meal.

Accommodation in Tarangire

After your day of exploring, you’ll head to your lodge or camp, where a hearty dinner awaits. Options include mid-range lodges, with upgrades available if you desire more luxury. Many reviewers note that the lodging provides a good balance of comfort and immersion, with some mentioning the chance to unwind under the stars after a day full of adventure.

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Day 2: Ngorongoro Crater – The Crown Jewel

The drive from Tarangire to Ngorongoro takes about 3.5 to 4 hours, passing through scenic countryside and Maasai villages. Early breakfast is recommended to maximize your time in the crater.

Descending into the Ngorongoro Crater—a massive, 600-meter-high volcanic caldera—you’ll feel the sense of awe immediately. The crater floor, covering approximately 260 square kilometers, makes for one of the richest wildlife habitats in Africa.

Your game drive on the crater floor lasts around 6 hours, giving you ample opportunity to spot the Big Five—elephants, buffalo, lions, leopards, and rhinos—plus hippos, hyenas, cheetahs, and more. As one reviewer insightfully noted, keeping your camera ready is essential, as moments of animal action unfold quickly.

A highlight is stopping at Ngoito Hippo Pool for your picnic lunch, where the sight of hippos lounging in the water is particularly impressive. Afterward, the ascent back to the crater rim is steep but rewarding, with panoramic views over the crater and surrounding landscapes.

The End of the Safari

After a 4-hour drive back to Arusha, your safari concludes with a sense of fulfillment and plenty of stories to tell. The journey is well-paced, with enough time to soak in each location’s unique atmosphere without feeling hurried.

What’s Included & What’s Not

Included

• One night of pre-safari hotel accommodation, easing your transition into the adventure
• An experienced, English-speaking safari guide who offers insightful commentary and spotting skills
• Park and concession fees, saving you the hassle of extra costs
• Comfortable 4×4 Toyota Land Cruiser with a pop-up roof for optimal wildlife viewing
• All meals, including picnic lunches, with plenty of drinking water provided during the game drives
• Roundtrip airport transfers, making logistics straightforward
• Government taxes and VAT, ensuring transparency in pricing

Not Included

• International or domestic flights (you’ll need to arrange these separately)
• Visa fees, which are a separate expense
• Alcoholic drinks, personal expenses, souvenirs, or travel insurance
• Additional accommodations if you wish to extend your stay
• Activities outside of the official itinerary

A Few Practical Tips

Travelers rave about bringing binoculars for spotting animals at a distance and biodegradable sunscreen to protect both skin and environment. Also, packing insect repellent is advised, especially in the warmer months.

The tour is suitable for children of all ages, with discounts for kids aged 0-15, making it accessible for family adventures. However, it’s not recommended for those with back problems, wheelchairs, or pre-existing medical conditions, given the nature of the terrain.

Why Choose This Safari?

This 2-day adventure offers a balanced mix of wildlife viewing, scenic landscapes, and comfortable accommodations. It’s ideal for travelers with limited time who still want to experience some of Tanzania’s most iconic parks. The private aspect means you’ll have personalized attention and the flexibility to customize your experience, whether that’s adding more days or tweaking specific activities.

The inclusion of expert guides with local insight enriches the journey, making it easier to spot elusive animals and understand their behavior. Plus, the value for money is notable, considering park fees, transport, and accommodations are all included in the $848 price—something that many other tours don’t bundle together so comprehensively.

If your main goal is to see large herds, the Big Five, and breathtaking landscapes without sacrificing comfort, this safari is a compelling choice. It’s particularly well-suited for those combining a safari with other adventures in Tanzania, as well as families looking for a safe, guided wildlife experience.

Final Thoughts

This 2-day safari to Tarangire and Ngorongoro is a smart option for those wanting a quick, well-organized glimpse of Tanzania’s wildlife treasures. The tour strikes a good balance between action-packed game drives and comfortable lodging, all led by knowledgeable guides who enhance your understanding of the animals and landscape.

While it might feel a bit rushed for avid photographers or those craving a leisurely pace, the experience delivers incredible value for the price. The parks themselves are spectacular—Tarangire’s massive elephants and the dramatic walls of Ngorongoro make for unforgettable sights—and the convenience of an all-inclusive package means less stress and more focus on enjoying the adventure.

In short, this safari is a practical, exciting, and authentic way to see some of Africa’s best wildlife in a short time frame, perfect for busy travelers or those combining it with other Tanzanian pursuits.

FAQs

What is the starting point of the tour?
The safari begins in Arusha, with pick-up from your hotel or Kilimanjaro International Airport.

Can I depart on any day?
Yes, the tour runs privately and can depart on any day that suits your schedule.

What does the price include?
The price covers park entrance fees, accommodation, meals, a private guide, transportation in a 4×4 vehicle, and government taxes.

Are children allowed on this safari?
Yes, children of all ages can join, with discounts for those aged 0-15.

How many days does the safari last?
It’s a 2-day, 1-night journey.

What type of vehicle is used?
A comfortable 4×4 Toyota Land Cruiser with a pop-up roof for optimal viewing.

Is overnight accommodation included?
Yes, in a mid-range lodge or camp, with options to upgrade.

Are meals provided?
Yes, all meals are included, with picnic lunches during game drives.

Will I see the Big Five?
The chances are excellent, especially in Ngorongoro, which is known for its high density of big game.

What should I bring?
Pack biodegradable sunscreen, insect repellent, binoculars, your passport, and travel insurance for peace of mind.

This safari provides an excellent balance of adventure, comfort, and value. It’s an ideal choice for travelers eager to see Tanzania’s top parks in a brief but meaningful visit.

You can check availability for your dates here: