2 Day Tanzania Safari from Arusha (Drive-In): Lake Manyara & Ngorongoro
Short & powerful: forests, Rift views & Big Five • Private 4×4 • Expert guide
Short on Time, Big on Wildlife — Your Perfect 2-Day Plan
Start and end in Arusha and cover two contrasting ecosystems in just 48 hours. Day 1 explores Lake Manyara National Park—groundwater forests, floodplains, and Rift escarpment scenery with monkeys, hippos, elephants and (with luck) tree-climbing lions. Day 2 descends into the Ngorongoro Crater for concentrated Big Five viewing.
This 2 day Tanzania safari from Arusha (drive-in) is paced to maximise field time: early starts, smart routing, and lodges close to park gates. It’s ideal as a quick wildlife-focused add-on or a first taste of the Northern Circuit.
Long-tail cues: “2 day Ngorongoro itinerary from Arusha”, “Lake Manyara day trip + Ngorongoro”, “short Tanzania safari cost for 2 days”.
Trip Highlights
Efficient road times • Diverse habitats • Private guiding
Why This Works in 2 Days
- Smart routing: Arusha → Manyara (~2–2.5h), Karatu → Crater gate (~45–60m), Crater → Arusha (~3.5–4h).
- Diverse sightings: forests & floodplains day one; caldera megafauna day two.
- Flexible pacing: private vehicle means more time where it’s productive.
Related: Ngorongoro guide • Tarangire (longer options)
Day-by-Day Itinerary (2 Days)
Exact lodge/meal logistics adjusted to season and availability.
Day 1: Arusha → Lake Manyara — Forests, Floodplains & Rift Views
Meet your guide after breakfast and drive to Lake Manyara National Park. Game drive through groundwater forests and open floodplains. Watch for elephants, hippos, blue monkeys and abundant birdlife; with some luck, see famed tree-climbing lions. Overnight in the Karatu area for a short drive to the crater tomorrow.
Day 2: Ngorongoro Crater — Big Five Focus → Return to Arusha
Sunrise drive to the rim and descend into the Ngorongoro Crater. High densities of wildlife in a compact area: lions, buffalo, zebra, hyena and a chance of black rhino. Picnic by a hippo pool; complete a habitat loop before ascending the rim and driving back to Arusha in the afternoon/evening.
Long-tail cues: “2 day Ngorongoro crater safari price”, “best 2 day Tanzania safari from Arusha”, “Lake Manyara and Ngorongoro weekend safari”.
Best Time to Go
Great year-round; sightseeing style varies by season.
Jun–Oct
Cool, dry, clear visibility; Manyara elephants frequent water sources; Crater is consistently productive.
Nov & Apr–May
Green seasons bring moody skies and fewer vehicles; birding can be superb around Manyara.
Dec–Mar
Warmer; Crater mornings are crisp, afternoons pleasant; good for family travel windows.
Year-round
Ngorongoro delivers reliable Big Five potential; early starts are key.
Transparent Costs for a 2-Day Drive-In Safari
Typical per-person “from” ranges (private trip, two travellers). Final quote varies by month and lodge level.
- Includes: private 4×4, expert driver-guide, park & crater fees, bottled water, full-board lodge on safari night.
- Affects price: travel month, lodge category/room type, availability, and special permits.
See broader ranges in our 2–13 Day Cost Guide or request a tailored quote.
What’s Included & Not Included
Included
- Private 4×4 with pop-top roof & fridge
- Professional driver-guide
- Park & Ngorongoro Crater fees
- 1 night full-board lodge/camp in Karatu area
- Drinking water in the vehicle
Not Included
- International flights & visas
- Some drinks & personal expenses
- Travel insurance (recommended)
- Optional activities (e.g., village visits)
Why Book with Hazina Afrika
Direct operator • Prime locations • Expert guides • Private & flexible • Filmmaker’s eye
On-the-ground team
Arusha-based operations for swift support and value.
Location over labels
We pick lodges for proximity to gates & wildlife—more game time.
Seasoned driver-guides
Field craft that positions you for light, behaviour and photos.
Filmmaker’s pacing
Patience at sightings—perfect for first-timers and photographers.
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Is a 2 day Tanzania safari enough?
Yes—this plan targets two high-yield parks with short transfers: Lake Manyara variety on Day 1 and Ngorongoro Big Five density on Day 2.
How long are the drives?
Arusha → Manyara ~2–2.5h; Karatu → Crater gate ~45–60m; Crater → Arusha ~3.5–4h. Times vary by season and traffic.
Can families do this itinerary?
Absolutely. Private vehicle pacing, picnic options and family-friendly lodges make it a great short safari with kids.
What if I want more time?
Consider 3–5 days to add Tarangire or the Serengeti. We’ll tailor routing to your dates and interests.
Why Book With Us?
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Book This Tour?
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