2 Day Tanzania Safari from Arusha: Tarangire and Ngorongoro Crater (Drive In)

Short on time, rich in sightings

Start and end in Arusha. Day 1 explores Tarangire National Park with elephants, baobabs and open river views. Day 2 descends into the Ngorongoro Crater which concentrates wildlife in a compact caldera. This 2 day Tanzania safari from Arusha uses a private 4x4 and early starts to keep you in the right places at the best hours.

Looking for an alternative route that pairs Lake Manyara with the crater. See your other two day drive in page so users can compare choices by habitat and season.

Long tail cues: 2 day Ngorongoro itinerary from Arusha, Tarangire and Ngorongoro 2 day safari, short Tanzania safari cost for 2 days.

Trip highlights

Efficient road times, diverse habitats, private guiding

Private 4x4 and guide Short transfers Big Five focus

Why this route works in 2 days

  • Smart routing. Arusha to Tarangire about 2 to 2.5 hours, Karatu to crater gate about 45 to 60 minutes, crater to Arusha about 3.5 to 4 hours
  • Diverse sightings. Tarangire river wildlife and baobabs on day 1, crater megafauna on day 2
  • Flexible pacing. Private vehicle means time where the action is

Day by day itinerary

Times adjust with season and road conditions

Day 1. Arusha to Tarangire. Elephants, river loops and baobabs

Meet your guide after breakfast and drive to Tarangire. Follow the river loops and open plains. Expect elephants, giraffe, zebra and strong birding. In the dry season wildlife concentrates along the river. Continue to Karatu for overnight to shorten the drive to the crater tomorrow.

Day 2. Ngorongoro Crater loop then return to Arusha

Early drive to the rim and descend into the crater. High densities of wildlife in a compact area with a chance of black rhino. Picnic near a hippo pool, complete a habitat circuit then ascend the rim and drive back to Arusha in the afternoon or evening.

More long tail cues. best 2 day Tanzania safari from Arusha, Ngorongoro crater tour 2 days, Tarangire and crater weekend safari.

Best time to go

Great year round, different styles by season

June to October

Dry season clarity, Tarangire river wildlife is reliable, crater is consistently productive

November and April to May

Green seasons bring moody skies and fewer vehicles, birding is strong in Tarangire

December to March

Warmer conditions, early crater descents are crisp and calm

Year round

Aim for first light entries to increase predator and rhino chances

Ask for a date matched plan

Transparent costs for 2 days

Typical per person from ranges for a private trip with two travelers. Final quote varies by month and lodge level

Upper mid
$720 to $940
Deluxe
$980 to $1,320
Luxury
$1,360 to $2,050
  • Includes private 4x4 with pop top, pro driver guide, park and crater fees, one night full board lodge in Karatu, bottled water in vehicle
  • Affects price. travel month, lodge category, room type, availability

For wider ranges, open the 2 to 13 day cost guide or request a tailored quote

What is included and not included

Included

  • Private 4x4 with pop top and fridge
  • Professional driver guide
  • Tarangire park fees and Ngorongoro crater fees
  • One night full board lodge or camp in Karatu area
  • Drinking water in the vehicle

Not included

  • International flights and visas
  • Some drinks and personal expenses
  • Travel insurance recommended
  • Optional activities like village visits or ballooning on longer trips

Why book with Hazina Afrika

Direct operator, prime locations, expert guides, private and flexible, filmmaker eye

On the ground team

Arusha based operations for quick support and clear communication

Location over labels

Lodges near gates and key habitats for more wildlife time

Seasoned driver guides

Positioning and light that improve your viewing and photos

Filmmaker pacing

Patience at sightings that suits first timers and photographers

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Frequently asked questions

Is 2 days enough

Yes. Tarangire day one and Ngorongoro day two give strong variety with short transfers.

How long are the drives

Arusha to Tarangire about 2 to 2.5 hours. Karatu to crater gate about 45 to 60 minutes. Crater to Arusha about 3.5 to 4 hours. Conditions vary by season and traffic.

Family friendly

Private vehicle pacing, picnic stops and family friendly lodges make this a good short safari with children.

What if I want more time

Add a day for Lake Manyara or add Tarangire to a longer circuit that reaches the Serengeti. We match routing to your dates.

Big Cats

Cultural Experiences

Big Five

Finest Accommodation

Game Drive

Start your adventure here

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