2 Day Tarangire & Lake Manyara Safari
A perfectly balanced short safari combining elephant country and lush groundwater forests
- Tanzania
- 2 Days
- From $450 Per Person
Overview
This 2 Day Tarangire & Lake Manyara Safari is designed for travelers who want a high-impact safari experience in a short time. You’ll explore two of northern Tanzania’s most contrasting parks — from Tarangire’s vast savannahs filled with elephants to Lake Manyara’s green forests, soda lake, and famous tree-climbing lions.
Ideal as a standalone safari, a Zanzibar extension, or a pre/post Kilimanjaro climb, this itinerary offers excellent wildlife viewing, comfortable lodge stays, and smooth logistics from start to finish.
Highlights
- Large elephant herds and baobab-dotted landscapes in Tarangire
- Excellent chances to see lions, giraffes, zebras, and wildebeest
- Tree-climbing lions and lush forest scenery in Lake Manyara
- Birdlife paradise with flamingos and over 400 bird species
- Short driving distances, maximizing game-viewing time
- Ideal for first-time safari travelers and Zanzibar extensions
Itinerary
Day 1: Arusha → Tarangire National Park
After an early morning pickup from Arusha (or nearby areas), you’ll drive to Tarangire National Park, famous for its massive elephant population and ancient baobab trees.
Enjoy a full game drive along the Tarangire River, a vital water source that attracts wildlife year-round. Expect to see elephants, lions, buffaloes, giraffes, zebras, and many antelope species.
Later in the afternoon, drive to your lodge or tented camp for dinner and overnight.
Meals: Lunch & Dinner
Overnight: Lodge or Tented Camp near Tarangire / Manyara
Day 2: Lake Manyara National Park → Arusha
After breakfast, head to Lake Manyara National Park, a compact yet incredibly diverse park set beneath the Great Rift Valley escarpment.
Game drives take you through groundwater forests, open plains, and the lake shoreline. Look out for tree-climbing lions, elephants, hippos, baboons, and colorful birdlife including flamingos.
After the safari, enjoy lunch before returning to Arusha in the late afternoon.
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Includes
- Private 4×4 Safari Vehicle with pop-up roof for game viewing
- Professional English-speaking driver/guide (French or German on request)
- All park entry fees
- Accommodations
- Meals
- Bottled drinking water during game drives
- Hotel pick-up & drop-off from Arusha or Moshi
- Government taxes and levies
Excludes
- International flights to/from Tanzania
- Domestic flights (e.g., Dar es Salaam ↔ Arusha) unless added to your package
- Travel insurance & medical coverage
- Visa fees and personal travel documents
- Alcoholic and premium beverages
- Tips & gratuities for driver/guide (customary but discretionary)
- Optional activities
- Personal expenses (laundry, phone calls, souvenirs)
FAQ
Is this safari suitable for first-time visitors?
Yes. This safari is excellent for first-time safari travelers because it offers high wildlife density, short driving distances, and varied landscapes without being rushed.
Can this safari start from Zanzibar?
Yes. Many travelers fly from Zanzibar to Arusha early in the morning. We can arrange airport transfers and adjust pickup times accordingly.
What animals can I realistically expect to see?
Elephants, lions, giraffes, zebras, buffaloes, wildebeest, baboons, hippos, and a wide variety of birds. While wildlife sightings are never guaranteed, both parks are known for consistent game viewing.
Is this safari good year-round?
Yes. Tarangire is excellent in the dry season (June–October), while Lake Manyara remains green and scenic year-round. Wildlife viewing is good in all months.
What accommodation options are available?
You can choose from budget, mid-range, or luxury lodges and tented camps. All options are carefully selected for comfort, location, and service quality.
Is the safari private or shared?
This safari is typically private, allowing flexibility in pace, photography stops, and wildlife tracking. Shared options can be arranged on request.
What should I pack?
Light clothing in neutral colors, a hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, comfortable shoes, a camera, and a light jacket for early mornings.
