Two-Day Adventure:

Safari summary

Embark on an unforgettable 2-day last-minute Tanzania safari from the tropical island of Zanzibar to two of Northern Tanzania’s most iconic wildlife destinations—Lake Manyara National Park and the Ngorongoro Crater. Perfect for travelers seeking a quick yet immersive wildlife experience, this safari combines the lush beauty of Lake Manyara’s diverse ecosystem with the dramatic landscapes and high wildlife density of Ngorongoro, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Designed for spontaneity and adventure, this compact safari allows you to discover the magic of Tanzania’s natural wonders in just two days, while still enjoying comfort, expert guidance, and stunning scenery every step of the way.

Your journey begins with a morning flight from Zanzibar to Arusha, the safari capital of northern Tanzania. Upon arrival at Arusha Airport, you are greeted by your professional safari guide and begin the drive toward Lake Manyara National Park, which lies along the base of the Great Rift Valley escarpment. This park, although relatively small compared to other Tanzanian reserves, is celebrated for its incredible biodiversity and unique ecological variety packed into a compact area. The lush groundwater forest welcomes you with baboons, blue monkeys, and rich birdlife, while the open grasslands and acacia woodlands are home to elephants, giraffes, zebras, and the park’s famous tree-climbing lions. Flamingos, pelicans, and other aquatic birds flock to the shallow, alkaline lake, adding vibrant color to the landscape.

During your game drive through Lake Manyara, you’ll have the chance to witness an array of wildlife interactions, framed by striking views of the escarpment cliffs and the shimmering lake. A scenic picnic lunch inside the park allows you to soak in the atmosphere without missing a moment of the action. After your exploration, you’ll leave the park in the late afternoon and travel up to the Ngorongoro Highlands. This picturesque journey winds through small villages and fertile farmland as you ascend toward the cooler climate of the crater rim. You’ll arrive at your lodge in Karatu or the Ngorongoro Conservation Area in time for dinner. Relax with stunning views over the rolling hills, breathe in the crisp highland air, and prepare for the next day’s adventure.

Day two begins with an early breakfast before you head to the entrance of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Descending 600 meters into the world’s largest inactive, intact volcanic caldera is a breathtaking experience. The Ngorongoro Crater, often called Africa’s "Eighth Wonder of the World," spans 260 square kilometers and supports an incredible density of wildlife, making it one of the best places in East Africa to see the Big Five in a single game drive. The crater’s varied habitats—grassland plains, acacia forests, swamps, and a central soda lake—support thousands of animals year-round.

Your morning game drive inside the crater offers the chance to spot endangered black rhinos, large prides of lions, herds of wildebeest and buffalo, graceful gazelles, and wallowing hippos. Elephants with massive tusks roam the forest edges, and leopards are occasionally spotted in the trees. The crater also provides fantastic birding opportunities, especially around Lake Magadi, where flamingos and storks often gather. A picnic lunch at a scenic spot inside the crater, perhaps near the hippo pool, gives you time to relax and enjoy the surroundings while keeping an eye out for passing wildlife.

After lunch, you’ll slowly make your way out of the crater and begin the return journey to Arusha. The drive offers one last opportunity to take in the spectacular scenery of the highlands before reaching the airport. From Arusha, you’ll board your late afternoon or early evening flight back to Zanzibar, concluding your whirlwind two-day safari adventure. Despite the short duration, this itinerary offers rich wildlife encounters, diverse landscapes, and cultural insights, making it an ideal option for travelers with limited time who still want to experience the essence of a Tanzanian safari.

This 2-day last-minute safari is suitable for solo travelers, couples, and small groups, and can be customized based on travel preferences—whether you're looking for a budget-friendly option or a luxurious escape with upgraded lodges and private game drives. All logistics, including park fees, meals, ground transport, expert guides, and return flights to Zanzibar, are handled to ensure a smooth and memorable experience. This itinerary is also an excellent add-on for those already enjoying a beach holiday in Zanzibar and wishing to add a burst of adventure and wildlife exploration to their trip. Whether it’s the sight of a lion on the hunt, the peaceful beauty of flamingos wading in Lake Manyara, or the awe of standing on the rim of Ngorongoro Crater, this safari promises moments you’ll never forget.

About this tour

	Tour type	Custom, tailor-made, private
	Main focus	Game drives
	Activity level	Easy activity
	Best months	All months
	Countries	Tanzania
	Parks	Lake Manyara Ngorongoro Crater

Fine details

Safari highlights

• Wildlife sanctuaries

What’s included?

• Accommodation
• Airport transfers
• All drinks
• Internal flights
• Meals
• Park fees

What’s not included?

• Alcoholic beverages
• Hot air balloons
• International flights
• Laundry
• Premium alcoholic beverages
• Spa treatments
• Tips and gratuities
• Visas