Tanzania · Safari

2-Day Lake Manyara and Ngorongoro Crater Safari from Arusha

2 Days Round trip from Arusha Easy pace

The journey

Trip highlights

01 Explore Lake Manyara National Park, known for its scenic diversity and rich wildlife
02 Observe large herds of elephants, buffaloes, hippos, and giraffes in their natural habitat
03 Admire flamingos and other colorful birdlife along the alkaline lakeshore
04 Descend into the Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
05 Experience one of the highest concentrations of wildlife in Africa within a volcanic caldera

Embark on a rewarding 2-day safari from Arusha that showcases the beauty and wildlife diversity of Northern Tanzania. Explore Lake Manyara National Park, known for its scenic diversity, tree-climbing lions, elephant herds, hippos, and flocks of flamingos along its shimmering lakeshore. Continue to the world-famous Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site often described as the Eighth Wonder of the World, where an incredible concentration of animals lives within the ancient caldera.

Continue to the world-famous Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site often described as the Eighth Wonder of the World, where an incredible concentration of animals lives within the ancient caldera.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 2 Days

Tour type Private

Activity level Easy

Accommodation Included · Standard

Transport Included

Wheelchair access Not applicable

Cities Arusha, Mount Kilimanjaro, Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Lake Manyara

Languages English, German, Italian, Russian

Day by day

The itinerary

Day 01

Arusha to Lake Manyara National Park Safari

Begin the morning with breakfast at your hotel in Arusha.
Meet your safari guide and depart for Lake Manyara National Park.
Drive through beautiful rural landscapes along the Rift Valley escarpment.
Enter Lake Manyara National Park and enjoy a full game drive.
Look for elephants, buffaloes, giraffes, hippos, and a variety of antelope species.
Keep an eye out for the park's famous tree-climbing lions resting on acacia branches.
Admire the diverse birdlife, including flamingos along the lakeshore.
Enjoy panoramic views of the Great Rift Valley wall.
Travel to Karatu in the late afternoon.
Check in at your lodge for relaxation, dinner, and an overnight stay.

Day 02

Ngorongoro Crater Game Drive and Return to Arusha

Have an early breakfast and depart for the Ngorongoro Conservation Area.
Descend into the Ngorongoro Crater, a natural wildlife sanctuary with rich ecosystems.
Enjoy a half-day game drive on the crater floor.
Observe wildlife such as lions, zebras, elephants, wildebeests, hippos, and possibly the rare black rhinoceros.
Stop at a scenic picnic site near the hippo pool for lunch.
Begin the drive back to Arusha in the afternoon.
Arrive in Arusha in the early evening, where the safari concludes.

Meal Plan: Breakfast and Lunch

Where this trip takes you

Lake Manyara National Park, Ngorongoro Crater, Great Rift Valley wall

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map — Round trip from Arusha 4 cities · 2 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

Transport in a 4×4 safari vehicle with a pop-up roof for game viewing
Professional English-speaking safari driver/guide
One night of accommodation at Heart and Soul Lodge (or similar)
All park entry fees (Lake Manyara and Ngorongoro Crater)
Crater service fees
All meals as per itinerary (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
Bottled drinking water during the safari
Government taxes and levies

What's Not Included

International and domestic flights
Tanzania visa fees
Travel insurance
Accommodation in Arusha before and after the safari (can be arranged upon request)
Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages
Gratuities for the driver/guide and lodge staff
Personal items (souvenirs, laundry, etc.)

What to bring

Comfortable safari clothing (neutral colors recommended)
Sun hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen
Light jacket or sweater for cool mornings and evenings
Insect repellent
Camera and extra batteries or memory cards
Binoculars for wildlife viewing
Personal medications and a basic first aid kit
Reusable water bottle
Small backpack for daily use

Know before you go

Safari Duration: This 2-day safari is ideal for travelers with limited time who still wish to experience Tanzania's incredible wildlife and landscapes.
Best Time to Visit: The parks are open year-round, but the best wildlife viewing is generally from June to October (the dry season), when animals gather around water sources.
Wildlife Viewing: While sightings cannot be guaranteed, Ngorongoro and Lake Manyara offer excellent chances to spot elephants, lions, zebras, hippos, flamingos, and more.
Road Conditions: The drive between the parks and Arusha can be bumpy at times, but the scenery and wildlife encounters make it well worth the journey.
Health & Safety: Both parks are located in malaria zones; bringing mosquito repellent and consulting your doctor about anti-malarial medication is recommended.
Electricity & Charging: Most lodges offer charging facilities for cameras and phones, though power may be limited in the evenings.
Packing Light: A small duffel bag or soft suitcase is recommended, especially if you are sharing the safari vehicle with other guests.
Cultural Sensitivity: Respect local customs and ask for permission before taking photos of people, particularly in Maasai or local village areas.
Safari Vehicles: You will travel in a custom-built 4×4 Land Cruiser with a pop-up roof for the best game-viewing and photography experience.
Travel Insurance: Comprehensive travel insurance is strongly recommended to cover medical emergencies, cancellations, or lost luggage.