2 Day Safari from Zanzibar to Tarangire & Ngorongoro Crater
Related Safari from Zanzibar packages
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.
