2 Day Safari from Zanzibar to Tarangire & Ngorongoro Crater
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2-Days Safari from Zanzibar
Our 2-day safari from Zanzibar is the perfect solution for budget and midrange travellers eager to experience Tanzania's magnificent wildlife, including the elusive Big 5. This short 2-day safari starting from Zanzibar itinerary takes you from the beautiful beaches of Zanzibar directly to 2 of the best parks in Tanzania, the heart of the Northern Safari Circuit โ Tarangire National Park and the iconic Ngorongoro Crater, maximising your wildlife viewing opportunities in just 2 short days.
Experience the thrill of a lifetime on this compact yet comprehensive 2-day fly-in safari tour from Zanzibar. Witness the legendary elephant herds of Tarangire National Park and descend into the breathtaking Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its dense concentration of wildlife, offering excellent chances to spot the Big 5. This itinerary, designed for both budget and midrange travelers, ensures a seamless journey with return flights from Zanzibar, comfortable transportation, expert guiding, and all park fees, providing an unforgettable Tanzania safari experience in a condensed timeframe.
Safari Highlight:
- Trip Summary: on this 2-day Tanzania safari from Zanzibar you visit 2 parks, Tarangire and Ngorongoro Crater.
- Level of Accommodation: Mid-range lodges, safe and clean with great food.
- Upgrade to luxury are available.
- Best time/availability: Depart any day.
2-Day Safari from Zanzibar Itinerary Overview:
This 2-day safari from Zanzibar to Tarangire & Ngorongoro Crater is ideal for those with limited vacation time but who want to have both beach experiences and a Tanzania safari.
Our best 2-day safari from Zanzibar offers a blend of Zanzibarโs beach experience and a glimpse into the wildlife of the Northern Circuit with a big chance to encounter the Big Five and flora within a short period.
2 Day Fly-in From Zanzibar at a glance
Day 1: Fly from Zanzibar to Arusha, then go on a Tarangire game drive.
Day 2: Ngorongoro Crater game drive, then fly to Zanzibar.
End of your 2-day safari from Zanzibar.
Why Book a 2-Day Safari Starting from Zanzibar?
A 2-day fly-in safari from Zanzibar offers unique advantages for travellers with limited time:
- Time Efficiency: Flying directly to Arusha saves significant travel time compared to road transfers, allowing you to maximize your precious safari days in the parks. This is ideal for travelers with short holiday windows.
- Big 5 Focus: This itinerary is specifically designed to hit two of Tanzania's most prolific wildlife areas, increasing your chances of spotting the Big 5 (lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo) in a short period.
- Convenience from Zanzibar: Seamless integration with your Zanzibar beach holiday, offering a perfect land and sea combination without extensive domestic travel.
- Reduced Travel Fatigue: Less time spent driving on rough roads means more energy for game drives and enjoying the wilderness.
- Cost-Effective for Short Stays: While flights add to the cost, a shorter safari duration can balance the overall expense, making it a viable option for budget and midrange travellers who prioritise a quality wildlife experience.
Best Time to Book a 2-Day Fly-In Safari:
For optimal wildlife viewing in both Tarangire and Ngorongoro Crater, the dry season (June to October) is generally considered the best time to visit. During these months:
- Animal Concentration: Wildlife congregates around permanent water sources (like the Tarangire River), making them easier to spot.
- Thinner Vegetation: Drier conditions mean less dense bush, offering clearer views.
- Comfortable Weather: Sunny days and cooler nights create pleasant safari conditions.
However, a 2-day safari can be rewarding year-round:
- Green Season (November to May): Offers lush landscapes, migratory birds, and often fewer tourists, potentially leading to better prices. Short rains (Nov-Dec) and long rains (March-May) can bring spectacular skies and dramatic photography opportunities, though some roads might be more challenging.
Booking Advice: Due to the popularity of these parks and the limited number of flights, it's highly recommended to book your 2-day fly-in safari from Zanzibar at least 2-4 weeks in advance, especially if you're traveling during peak season (June-October) or over holidays.
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2-days safari from Zanzibar best itinerary
Day 1: Fly from Zanzibar to Arusha airport then Tarangire.
Start your 2-day Tanzania safari from Zanzibar with a pick-up from the hotel (included) and drive to Zanzibar Airport. Arrive at Arusha airport in the morning, around 9 am. After being familiar with your safari guide, start a drive to Tarangire National Park and proceed with a full-day game drive.
The park covers an area of 2,600 square kilometers, and the parkโs animal concentration during the dry season can rival that of the famous Serengeti. Among the predators in this park are lions, cheetahs, and leopards. These animals share watering holes with various bird species, including green wood hoopoes, fisher lovebirds, tall herons, white-bellied go-away birds, and giant kingfishers.
Tarangire is renowned for its baobab trees and picturesque views of expansive savannahs and acacia woodlands. The peculiar, ancient baobab trees are considered by the Maasai people to be the first trees on earth.
What else could be more exciting than visiting the home of elephants and baobab trees? Explore the wildlife and nature till evening when you will head to Farm Of Dreams for dinner and your overnight stay.
Day 02: 2 day safari tour - Ngorongoro Crater then Fly back to Zanzibar
After an early breakfast, drive to Ngorongoro and descend into the Crater on a journey to find the black rhino.
Referred to as the eighth natural wonder of the world, the Ngorongoro Crater stands as the largest intact caldera globally formed approximately 2 million years ago when the Ngorongoro volcano erupted and its walls collapsed.
Currently boasting a width of over 19 kilometers, the Ngorongoro Crater features diverse landscapes, including expansive acacia forests, swamps teeming with hippos, and vast open grasslands.
Animals found are elephants, warthogs, flamingos, a spectacular array of bird species, the elusive black rhinoceros, and all the apex predators.
Additionally, the Maasai people can often be observed tending to their cattle, peacefully coexisting with buffalo and wildebeest in this remarkable natural sanctuary.
In the afternoon, you will stop for lunch with the Hippo Lake view and then enjoy another game drive as you ascend back up to the crater.
Drive back to Arusha Airport for your evening flight back to Zanzibar marking the end of your 2 days safari fly-in from Zanzibar to Tarangire and Ngorongoro.
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2-Day Tanzania Safari from Zanzibar Includes
- All Park fees & entrances
- Roundtrip flights to & from Zanzibar
- Midrange lodge accommodation
- All activities, unless indicated as optional
- Meals (As specified in the day-by-day section)
- Professional safari guide
- All taxes/VAT
- Unlimited bottled drinking water
- Private 4ร4 Safari Jeep
- Roundtrip airport transfers in Zanzibar
- Pair of Binoculars
- Beers/wines
- Unlimited game drives
2-Day Safari in Tanzania starting from Zanzibar Excludes
- International flights (From/to home)
- Tips (Tipping guideline US$15.00 pp per day)
- Personal items (Souvenirs, travel insurance, visa fees, etc.)
- Travel Insurance
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Best 2-Day Safari from Zanzibar itineraries, costs and prices.
Option 1: 2-day Lodge Safari from Zanzibar (Private)
- Price: USD per person
- Accommodation: Semi-luxury lodges like Farms of Dreams Lodge, Serengeti Safari Haven, and Ngorongoro Safari Lodge.
Experience: This is a private tour, giving you full flexibility and exclusivity.
Option 2: 2-day group shared Lodge Safari (Group Join)
- Price: USD per person
- Accommodation: Same semi-luxury lodges as Option 1.
- Experience: Join a small group for a more social and cost-effective lodge safari.
Option 3: 2-day Budget Camping Safari from Zanzibar (Private)
- Price: USD per person
- Accommodation: Comfortable tented camps like Karatu Safari Camp and Lodge, Nyani Campsite, and Ngorongoro Simba Campsite.
- Experience: A private, immersive camping adventure, offering a closer connection to nature.
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Your 2-Day Safari from Zanzibar: FAQs for Budget Explorers
What is a "2-Day Safari from Zanzibar", and who is it best for?
While a longer safari always allows for deeper immersion, 2 days is worth it for a high-quality fly-in safari from Zanzibar to Tarangire and Ngorongoro Crater. These two parks are incredibly rich in wildlife, offering excellent Big 5 viewing opportunities.
Tarangire: Known for its vast elephant herds and unique baobab landscapes, offering fantastic game drives.
Ngorongoro Crater: A UNESCO World Heritage Site with an incredibly high concentration of animals in a relatively small area, making Big 5 sightings highly probable.
You’ll have dedicated time in each park, making the most of every moment. While you might wish for more time (as most safari-goers do!), you’ll leave with unforgettable memories and significant wildlife encounters.
When is the best time to book and go on this 2 day Tanzania safari from Zanzibar?
For the best wildlife viewing and comfortable weather in Tarangire and Ngorongoro Crater, the dry season (June to October) is optimal. Animals tend to be closer to water sources.
Peak Season (June – October): Excellent wildlife viewing, sunny skies, cooler nights. Book 2-4 months in advance due to high demand for flights and accommodation.
Shoulder Seasons (Jan – Feb, Nov – early Dec): Good wildlife viewing, fewer crowds, lush landscapes, and sometimes better rates.
Green Season (March to May): Lower price opportunities and migratory birds. While some roads can be challenging, a fly-in safari minimises this impact.
Regardless of the season, for a 2-day fly-in safari from Zanzibar, it’s crucial to book well in advance to secure domestic flights and preferred accommodation.
What is the "Big 5" and how likely am I to see them on this 2-day safari?
The Big 5 refers to:
Lion
Leopard
Elephant
Rhino (Black Rhino)
African Buffalo (Cape Buffalo)
These animals were historically the most challenging and dangerous to hunt on foot during the colonial era. On this 2-day fly-in safari starting and ending in Zanzibar, your chances of spotting the Big 5 are remarkably high in just 2 days, especially in the Ngorongoro Crater.
What type of accommodation can I expect on this budget and midrange safari?
For our budget and midrange 2-day lodge safari or camping from Zanzibar, we prioritise comfortable, well-located accommodation that provides a true safari atmosphere without the luxury price tag. You can expect to stay in:
Midrange Lodges: These offer private rooms/tents with en-suite bathrooms, comfortable beds, restaurant facilities, and often swimming pools. They are typically situated just outside the national parks, offering a relaxing retreat after your game drives.
Permanent Tented Camps: A fantastic option that combines the adventure of camping with the comforts of a lodge. These feature spacious canvas tents on solid bases, usually with proper beds and private bathrooms, offering an immersive bush experience with modern amenities.
We ensure your accommodation is carefully selected for quality, service, and proximity to the safari parks.
What should I pack for a 2-day fly-in safari from Zanzibar?
Packing light is crucial due to domestic flight baggage restrictions (often 15kg/33lbs in soft-sided bags). Here’s an optimized packing list:
- Clothing:
- Neutral colors (khaki, tan, olive green) for game drives.
- 1-2 pairs of lightweight, breathable long pants/trousers.
- 1-2 short-sleeved shirts/T-shirts.
- 1 long-sleeved shirt (for sun/insect protection).
- 1 warm fleece or light jacket (for chilly mornings/evenings).
- Pajamas, underwear, socks.
- Comfortable closed-toe shoes (sneakers are fine) and sandals/flip-flops.
- Sun Protection: Wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, high SPF sunscreen, lip balm with SPF.
- Insect Protection: High-quality insect repellent (with DEET).
- Health & Hygiene: Personal medications, small first-aid kit, hand sanitizer, basic toiletries.
- Gear:
- Binoculars (highly recommended!)
- Camera with extra batteries, memory cards, and charger. A power bank for your phone/camera is a lifesaver.
- Small daypack for daily essentials.
- Reusable water bottle.
- Small flashlight/headlamp.
- Documents: Passport (valid for 6+ months), Tanzanian visa (see Q10), flight tickets, travel insurance details, and copies of all documents.
- Money: Small USD denominations for tips and incidentals.
Is a Tanzanian visa required for this short safari from Zanzibar?
Yes, most foreign nationals require a visa to enter Tanzania, even for short safaris or when flying from Zanzibar.
- eVisa (Recommended): The most convenient way to apply online through the official Tanzania Immigration website (https://visa.immigration.go.tz/) before your trip. Apply at least 2-3 weeks in advance.
- Visa on Arrival: Available for some nationalities at major entry points like Arusha Airport (ARK) and Zanzibar International Airport (ZNZ). However, applying for an eVisa in advance is generally recommended to avoid potential queues or delays upon arrival.
Always check the latest visa requirements based on your nationality via the official Tanzanian Immigration website before you travel. Your passport must also be valid for at least six months beyond your intended departure date from Tanzania.
Are there any specific health precautions for a safari in Tanzania?
Yes, it’s important to be aware of health considerations for a safari in Tanzania:
Malaria: Tanzania is a malaria-risk area. Consult your doctor about anti-malarial medication options. Use insect repellent and wear long sleeves/trousers, especially at dawn and dusk.
Yellow Fever: A Yellow Fever vaccination certificate may be required if you are arriving from or transiting through a country with a risk of Yellow Fever transmission. Check current health regulations well before travelling to Tanzania.
Routine Vaccinations: Ensure your routine vaccinations are up-to-date (e.g., Tetanus, Diphtheria, Polio, Hepatitis A & B).
Hydration: Drink plenty of bottled water to avoid dehydration in the hot climate.
Sun Protection: The African sun is strong; use high SPF sunscreen, wear a hat, and sunglasses.
Consult Your Doctor: Always consult your healthcare provider or a travel clinic well in advance (ideally 4-6 weeks) of your trip for personalized medical advice and prescriptions.
What kind of accommodation is used on this budget 3-day group safari?
We prioritize comfort and value. Our budget-friendly group safaris utilize carefully selected tented camps or lodges located just outside the national parks. These accommodations offer a genuine safari atmosphere with essential amenities like comfortable beds, en-suite bathrooms, and delicious meals, providing an excellent balance of quality and affordability.
Can this 2-day safari be customized for private travelers or different budgets?
Yes, while this itinerary is optimised for budget and midrange group travellers, it can certainly be customized.
- Private Safari: We can arrange this same 2-day itinerary as a private safari for couples, families, or small groups who prefer exclusivity and more flexibility. This often means a higher cost but provides a more personalized experience.
- Accommodation Upgrades: If you’re a midrange traveler looking for a slightly more luxurious experience, we can often arrange upgrades to higher-tier lodges or tented camps within your budget.
- Specific Interests: While condensed, a private 2-day safari could allow for minor adjustments if you have a specific wildlife focus (e.g., birding, photography).
Check out our 2-day group shared safari from Zanzibar or 3-day group safari, and contact us to discuss your preferences, and we’ll tailor the perfect Tanzania fly-in safari for you!
What is the typical tipping etiquette for safari guides and lodge staff in Tanzania?
Tipping is a customary practice in Tanzania and is highly appreciated by safari guides and lodge staff as a significant part of their income. While it’s always at your discretion, here’s a general guideline for a high-quality safari experience:
Safari Guide/Driver: The most common recommendation is $20 – $30 USD per guest, per day. If you are a single traveler, you might consider tipping slightly more per day to compensate for the smaller group. Your guide works long hours, providing invaluable knowledge and ensuring your safety and enjoyment.
Lodge/Camp Staff (General Tip Box): For the entire lodge staff (waiters, housekeepers, cooks, porters), a pooled tip is usually left in a designated box at reception. A good guideline is $10 – $15 USD per guest, per day, to be distributed among all staff members.
Specific Staff (e.g., Porter): If someone provides exceptional individual service, a small additional tip directly to them (e.g., $1-2 USD) is also appreciated.
It’s best to tip in US Dollars (crisp, new bills are preferred by locals as older bills can be hard to exchange) or Tanzanian Shillings. Consider having an envelope for your guide’s tip and for the lodge tip box.
