2 Days to Tarangire National Park & Ngorongoro Crater

Tarangire National Park & Ngorongoro Crater

Duration

2 days

Tour Type

Classic Wildlife Safaris, Cultural & Community Tours, Short Getaways & Day Trips

Reviews

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Overview

This short but rewarding safari takes you to two of Tanzania’s most iconic parks: Tarangire National Park, known for its elephants and ancient baobab trees, and the world-famous Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site packed with wildlife in a spectacular volcanic setting.

Ideal for those on a tight schedule, this two-day trip offers excellent game viewing, beautiful landscapes, and a deep dive into the natural wonders of northern Tanzania all with a knowledgeable guide and comfortable accommodation.

Included/Exclude

All park entry and conservation fees
Private 4x4 safari vehicle with pop-up roof
Professional English-speaking safari guide
Accommodation in mid-range lodge (1 night)
Meals as outlined in itinerary
Bottled drinking water during safari
Government taxes and levies
Crater descent fee

Flights and airport transfers (can be arranged upon request)
Tips and gratuities for guide/driver
Travel insurance
Alcoholic and soft drinks
Personal items (souvenirs, snacks, etc.)

Tour Plan

Day 1: Arusha → Tarangire National Park

07:30 AM – Depart from Arusha
Meet your guide and depart for Tarangire National Park, a scenic 2-hour drive through rural Tanzania.

10:00 AM – Arrive at Tarangire National Park
Start your game drive through this lesser-known gem. Tarangire is especially famous for its large elephant herds, iconic baobab trees, and seasonal swamps. Keep an eye out for lions, giraffes, buffalo, zebras, and over 500 bird species.

01:00 PM – Picnic Lunch in the Park
Enjoy a packed lunch at one of the designated picnic spots inside the park with views of the Tarangire River.

02:00 PM – Afternoon Game Drive
Continue exploring different areas of the park, including the Silale Swamp and riverbanks, which attract animals year-round.

04:30 PM – Drive to Karatu for Overnight
After your safari, head toward the town of Karatu, nestled in the green highlands near Ngorongoro.

06:00 PM – Arrive at Lodge in Karatu
Check in at your lodge. Relax, enjoy a hot meal, and prepare for your next day’s adventure.

Overnight: Comfortable mid-range lodge in Karatu (e.g., Marera Valley Lodge or similar)
Meals Included: Lunch, Dinner

Day 2: Ngorongoro Crater Safari → Return to Arusha

06:30 AM – Early Breakfast and Depart for Crater
Leave the lodge early and drive to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area gate.

08:00 AM – Descend into the Ngorongoro Crater
Enter the Crater for a half-day game drive on the floor of this ancient volcano. The Crater is home to an astonishing range of wildlife, including lions, elephants, wildebeest, hippos, and the rare black rhino. It’s also one of the best places to see the Big Five in one day.

12:00 PM – Picnic Lunch at Ngoitoktok Springs
Enjoy lunch at a scenic spot in the Crater, often shared with hippos nearby.

01:00 PM – Final Crater Game Drive
Continue exploring until it's time to ascend and begin the return drive.

03:00 PM – Begin Drive Back to Arusha
Exit the park and drive back to Arusha, passing through the Rift Valley and highlands.

06:30 PM – Drop-Off in Arusha
Arrive back in town in the evening. Drop-off at your hotel or the airport.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch