Overview
2 Day Crater & Tarangire Safari
The 2 Day Crater & Tarangire Safari offers two flexible itinerary options, giving you the chance to tailor your experience. In the first option, you spend both days exploring Tarangire National Park, famous for its immense elephant herds, ancient baobab trees, and abundant predators. This route allows more time to fully enjoy Tarangire’s landscapes and wildlife, with an overnight stay at comfortable lodges near the park before continuing your adventure on day two.
The second option combines Tarangire National Park with the legendary Ngorongoro Crater. After game viewing in Tarangire on the first day, you overnight in Karatu or on the Ngorongoro Highlands, then descend into the crater on day two. Known as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the world’s largest intact volcanic caldera, the Ngorongoro Crater offers incredible chances to spot the Big Five, including the rare black rhino. Both routes include options for basic, budget, or comfort accommodations, making this short safari perfect for travelers with limited time.
2 Day Crater & Tarangire Safari
Experience the best of northern Tanzania in just two days with game drives in Tarangire National Park and an unforgettable wildlife adventure inside the world-famous Ngorongoro Crater.
Day 1 – Arusha / Moshi → Tarangire National Park

Your safari adventure begins in the morning (pick-up from Moshi, Arusha, or Kilimanjaro Airport between 08:00–10:00) with a drive to Tarangire National Park. Famous for its massive elephant herds, ancient baobab trees, and predator sightings, Tarangire offers a rich wildlife experience in a relatively uncrowded setting. Enjoy a picnic lunch and an afternoon game drive before heading to your lodge or tented camp for dinner and overnight.
Quick facts
- Approx driving distance: Arusha to Tarangire 2–3 hrs (depending on start point)
- Expected game drive: Afternoon (with extended time if departure is early)
- Meals usually included: Picnic lunch, dinner
- Optional activities: Maasai cultural visit, short ranger-guided walk, sundowner at the lodge/camp (on request)
- Commonly seen animals: Elephant, giraffe, zebra, wildebeest, buffalo, impala, waterbuck, ostrich, lion, leopard, cheetah, baboon, vervet monkey, warthog, over 500 bird species including lilac-breasted roller and kori bustard
Night 1 - Overnight accommodation options
Overnight: Ngorongoro Coffee Lodge

Style: Mid range lodge
Location: Karatu, Ngorongoro Highlands, Tanzania (nestled next to Ngorongoro Forest and coffee plantation)
Website: Visit website
TripAdvisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Ngorongoro Farmhouse

Style: Country-style / mid-range lodge
Location: Karatu, Ngorongoro Highlands, Tanzania (on a working coffee farm near the Lolduare Crater Gate)
Website: Visit website
TripAdvisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: The Retreat at Ngorongoro

Style: Mid range Upscale nature lodge
Location: Tloma, Karatu, Ngorongoro Highlands, Tanzania
Website: Visit website
TripAdvisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Farm of Dreams

Style: Budget range
Location: Karatu, Tanzania
Website: Visit website
TripAdvisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Marera Valley Lodge

Style: Budget range lodge
Location: Karatu, Tanzania (on the outskirts of Karatu town, between Lake Manyara and Ngorongoro)
Website: Visit website
TripAdvisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Country Lodge

Style: Budget range lodge
Location: Karatu, Tanzania (on the outskirts of Karatu, between Lake Manyara and Ngorongoro)
Website: Visit website
TripAdvisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Kankari Lodge

Style: Budget range lodge
Location: Karatu, Tanzania (on the outskirts of Karatu town, between Lake Manyara and Ngorongoro)
Website: Visit website
TripAdvisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Eileens Tree Inn

Style: Budget range lodge
Location: Karatu, Tanzania (just at the edge of Karatu town, in the Crater Highlands)
Website: Visit website
TripAdvisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Bougainvillea Lodge

Style: Budget range lodge
Location: Karatu, Tanzania (on the outskirts of Karatu town, between Lake Manyara and Ngorongoro)
Website: Visit website
TripAdvisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Gibbs Farm

Style: Luxury lodge
Location: Karatu, Tanzania (historic coffee & flower farm on the Ngorongoro Crater highlands)
Website: Visit website
TripAdvisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Ngorongoro Oldeani Mountain Lodge

Style: Luxury lodge
Location: Oldeani, Karatu, Ngorongoro Highlands, Tanzania (just north of the Ngorongoro Crater Gate)
Website: Visit website
TripAdvisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: The Plantation Lodge

Style: Luxury lodge
Location: Karatu, Ngorongoro Highlands, Tanzania (close to the Ngorongoro Crater Gate)
Website: Visit website
TripAdvisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: The Manor at Ngorongoro

Style: Luxury lodge
Location: Shangri-La Coffee Estate, Karatu, Ngorongoro Highlands, Tanzania
Website: Visit website
TripAdvisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Ngorongoro Simba Campsite

Style: Campsite
Location: Ngorongoro Conservation Area
No website available
No reviews available
Day 2 – Tarangire National Park → Ngorongoro Crater → Arusha / Moshi / JRO

After an early breakfast, descend into the world-famous Ngorongoro Crater, a natural amphitheater filled with wildlife. The crater floor is one of the best places in Africa to spot the Big Five in one location, including the rare black rhino. Enjoy a picnic lunch by the hippo pools, then continue your game drive before returning to Arusha, Moshi, or Kilimanjaro Airport for evening departures.
Quick facts
- Distance from previous location: Tarangire/Karatu to Ngorongoro 3–4 hrs; crater descent ~45 min
- Expected game drive: Full morning to early afternoon
- Optional activities: Maasai cultural visit in Ngorongoro highlands
- Meals usually included: Breakfast, lunch
- Commonly seen :Rhino, elephant, buffalo, lion, wildebeest, zebra, hippo, hyena, jackal, flamingos, ostrich, numerous raptors
Overnight Accommodation options
- None included but you can add post tour accommodation to any of our safaris on request in Arusha, Moshi or around Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO)
Prices, Inclusions & Custom Options
Enjoy transparent 2 Day Crater & Tarangire Safari prices that cover park fees, 4×4 transport, and full-board accommodations. Personalize your trip with cultural add-ons, crater or Tarangire extensions, or lodge upgrades.
Private group (private departure)
please request a quoteScheduled group (shared departure)
please request a quote* All prices are in USD ($) and serve as indications only for a standard package excluding pre/post accommodation, add-ons and comfort upgrades.
Scheduled departures for Complete North safari are currently not available however for small groups we can consider offering your dates for others to join.
Standard packages usually include
- Exciting game drives in Tarangire National Park, with vast elephant herds, ancient baobabs, and diverse birdlife.
- A full-day safari in the Ngorongoro Crater, offering Big Five sightings and incredible wildlife density.
- Comfortable lodges, tented camps, or campsites near major highlights, blending convenience with authentic safari experiences.
- All government taxes, VAT, and local levies
- Full safari itinerary coverage, including crater descent fees
- Private 4x4 Land Cruiser with pop-up roof, radio calls, English-speaking driver-guide, charging ports, and luggage space (soft bags, max 20kg per person).
- 1.5 litres bottled water per person per day
- Comfortable, handpicked full-board lodges depending on category selected)
- For basic camping at special campsites: Portable camping shower and toilet (with porter to service)
Optional extras, add-ons and comfort upgrades
Looking for more comfort or a tailored experience? Explore our optional upgrades, add-ons, and customization ideas below.
Standard packages usually exclude
- Tips and gratuities for guides, cooks, hotel staff and other crew
- Beverages such as soft drinks, bottled juices, and alcoholic drinks (unless your accommodation is booked with an all inclusive drinks package)
- International flights. Learn more about international airports.
- Insurance. Learn more about insurance.
- Visas. Learn more about visas.
- Personal items not specifically listed in the inclusions
Trip Add-Ons & Comfort Upgrades
Enhance your 2 Day Crater & Tarangire Safari with optional extras such as Maasai village visits, Ngorongoro walking safaris, treetop walkways, cultural encounters, or luxury lodge upgrades for added comfort and adventure.

Ngorongoro Highlands Hike

Lake Natron Extension

Materuni Waterfall & Coffee Tour

Lake Eyasi Cultural Experience

Laetoli footprints (prehistoric site)

Lake Manyara walking safari

Mto wa Mbu Village & Activities

Chemka (Kikuletwa) Hot Springs

Olduvai Gorge & Shifting Sands

Maasai cultural village visit

Tarangire Hot Air Balloon Safari

Tarangire walking safari

Tarangire hot bush lunch

Lake Manyara Canoeing safari

Lake Manyara treetop walkway
Essential Information for Your 2 Day Crater & Tarangire Safari
Key tips, packing advice, park rules, and travel details ensure a seamless short safari through Tarangire’s elephant-filled savannahs and the wildlife-rich Ngorongoro Crater.

Travel Info for Tanzania

Which Airport to Choose?

Vaccinations & Health Tips
Photos & Videos at 2 Day Crater & Tarangire Safari
Discover stunning Photos & Videos from the 2 Day Crater & Tarangire Safari, showcasing Tarangire’s elephants and baobabs alongside the breathtaking wildlife and landscapes of the Ngorongoro Crater.
Why Book Your 2 Day Crater & Tarangire Safari with Shah Tours?
Choose Shah Tours for expert guides, reliable vehicles, and seamless planning on this compact two-day adventure. Experience Tarangire’s elephants, Ngorongoro’s wildlife-rich crater, and personalized service that ensures every moment counts.

Decades of Cultural Safari Expertise

Local Guides Who Understand the Land

Safe, Comfortable & Respectful Travel
Frequently Asked Questions About 2 Day Crater & Tarangire Safari
Get quick answers to common questions about the 2 Day Crater & Tarangire Safari, including itinerary options, key highlights, wildlife encounters, best travel seasons, accommodations, park fees, cultural add-ons, and essential planning tips.
Difference Between the Two Itinerary Options
The 2 Day Crater & Tarangire Safari offers two flexible choices. Option 1 spends both days in Tarangire National Park, allowing more time with elephants, baobabs, and diverse wildlife. Option 2 combines Tarangire with the Ngorongoro Crater, letting you enjoy elephants, predators, and birdlife on day one, then descend into the UNESCO-listed caldera on day two for Big Five encounters. Both options ensure a rich safari experience in just two days.
Chances of Seeing the Big Five in 2 Days

Yes, the Big Five can be seen during a 2 Day Crater & Tarangire Safari. Tarangire offers elephants, lions, and buffalo, while Ngorongoro Crater significantly increases your chance of spotting black rhino and leopard. While sightings are never guaranteed, the crater’s high wildlife density makes it one of the best places in Africa to achieve Big Five encounters, even within a compact two-day safari timeframe.
Driving Distances and Travel Times
Travel on the 2 Day Crater & Tarangire Safari includes several hours of scenic driving. From Arusha to Tarangire is around 2–3 hours, with additional game drives inside the park. If you continue to Ngorongoro (Option 2), expect another 3–4 hours to reach the crater highlands. Drives are balanced with wildlife viewing stops, ensuring you maximize sightings while traveling comfortably across northern Tanzania’s iconic safari circuit.
Suitability for Children and Older Travelers
The 2 Day Crater & Tarangire Safari is suitable for families and older travelers, but conditions should be considered. Game drives involve bumpy roads and long hours, which may be challenging for young children or seniors with mobility issues. Many operators recommend a minimum age of six. Choosing comfort-level accommodations and private safari vehicles enhances flexibility, safety, and overall enjoyment for families or senior guests exploring Tarangire and Ngorongoro.
Accommodation Options on This Safari
Accommodation during the 2 Day Crater & Tarangire Safari is flexible, ranging from basic camping to mid-range lodges and comfort properties. In Tarangire, you’ll find lodges or tented camps near the park. For Ngorongoro options, overnights are typically in Karatu or the crater highlands. All accommodations provide meals and comfortable stays, ensuring guests can relax after game drives and prepare for the next day’s wildlife encounters in Tanzania’s top safari destinations.
Vaccinations and Health Precautions
Travelers on the 2 Day Crater & Tarangire Safari should consult their doctor for recommended vaccinations. A Yellow Fever certificate is required if arriving from certain countries. Malaria prophylaxis, insect repellent, and protective clothing are strongly advised due to mosquito risk. Staying hydrated, practicing food hygiene, and carrying basic medication are essential. By taking health precautions, visitors can safely enjoy unforgettable safari experiences in Tarangire National Park and Ngorongoro Crater.
Start Times and Daily Schedule
The 2 Day Crater & Tarangire Safari begins with early morning departures to maximize game viewing. Day one typically starts around 7:00 AM from Arusha, heading to Tarangire for a full-day safari. On day two, Ngorongoro Crater descents often begin around 6:00 AM, offering excellent opportunities to see predators and rhinos before crowds arrive. Early starts ensure the best lighting for photography, cooler temperatures, and highly rewarding wildlife encounters across Tanzania’s landscapes.
Wildlife Sightings in Ngorongoro Crater
The Ngorongoro Crater is one of the world’s best wildlife viewing destinations. On day two of the safari, travelers can expect to see large numbers of herbivores like zebra, wildebeest, buffalo, and hippos. Predators including lions, hyenas, and cheetahs are commonly spotted. The crater also offers one of the few reliable chances to see the endangered black rhino. Its unique geography makes wildlife sightings frequent, rewarding, and exceptionally memorable.
Park Fees and Inclusions
Most packages for the 2 Day Crater & Tarangire Safari include park entry fees for Tarangire and Ngorongoro, as well as the crater descent fee. Safari vehicles, driver-guides, and meals are also part of standard inclusions. Always confirm with your operator what’s covered. Exclusions may include tips, personal expenses, optional add-ons, and certain drinks. Transparent pricing ensures travelers can enjoy a stress-free safari without unexpected additional costs along the journey.
Weather, Road Conditions, and Flexibility
Weather in Tarangire and Ngorongoro can affect safari routes, especially during the rainy season when roads may become muddy or slippery. The 2 Day Crater & Tarangire Safari is designed with flexibility, allowing guides to adjust timings or routes for safety while still maximizing wildlife viewing. With experienced driver-guides and well-maintained vehicles, travelers can rest assured their safari will remain enjoyable, safe, and rewarding regardless of seasonal weather conditions.
Other Tours Connected to 2 Day Crater & Tarangire Safari
Extend your 2-day adventure with Serengeti or Lake Manyara safaris, Kilimanjaro day hikes, Zanzibar beach escapes, or cultural village visits for a fuller Tanzania experience.

Southern & Eastern Tanzania Safaris

Mount Kilimanjaro Treks

Ngorongoro Highlands Trekking

Cultural Tours in Tanzania

Kilimanjaro Culture & Coffee Walks

Usambara Mountains Hiking
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My group of five colleagues and I climbed Kilimanjaro via the seven-day Machame Route with Shah Tours. Communication with Ramon before and after the climb was seamless and extremely professional. All questions were answered quickly and promptly. Even a glove I forgot in my rental luggage was later delivered to my hotel in Arusha by our guide. Our guides, Baraka, Hillary, and Felix, were excellent mountain guides who provided outstanding support throughout the tour and kept our spirits up even during the most challenging moments. The food during the climb was always freshly prepared. We usually had soup as a starter, followed by either a stew with rice or noodles, or, for example, potatoes with fried fish or meat. A delicious pizza was served the evening before the summit attempt. I would also like to commend the rest of the crew for their consistently positive attitude and courteous service. The rental equipment was of good quality. However, on a future tour, I would opt for better sleeping mats, as the standard ones became quite thin after a while. Overall, it was a great experience to do the climb with Shah Tours.
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Nils Bindauf14 September 2026Verified
Kilimandscharo It was the best experience we have ever had with Shah Tours. We always felt completely comfortable and well taken care of. The guides, porters, and cook were incredibly kind and friendly. They always greeted us with a smile and even sang for us. Even at 4,700 meters above sea level, they baked us a cake because it was our wedding anniversary. That was such a special and unforgettable gesture. I can honestly say that this was one of the most amazing experiences of our lives, and we would recommend Shah Tours to anyone without hesitation! Thank you all and best wishes to Mathayo, Felix and the Team! We miss you guys.
Laura S2 September 2026Verified
7-Day Kilimanjaro Machame circuit climb Our Kilimanjaro trek via the 7-day Machame Route was an unforgettable experience from start to finish. The admission fee for our group of 12 was included in the tour package. The route itself was breathtaking, with incredible scenery that changed every day—from lush rainforest and dramatic valleys to rocky alpine landscapes and the spectacular summit views above the clouds. What truly made the trip exceptional was the professionalism and kindness of the Shah Tour and guides with special mention of Matheyo. The Matheyo and team was organized, supportive, and attentive throughout the hike. Our guides set a steady, comfortable pace, constantly checked on everyone’s wellbeing, and shared valuable encouragement and knowledge about the mountain. Their experience and calm leadership gave us confidence, especially on the more challenging summit night. The porters and camp crew also deserve enormous appreciation. They worked incredibly hard to make sure we were comfortable, well fed, and prepared each day. The meals were delicious and surprisingly varied for a mountain trek, and the camps were always ready when we arrived. Reaching Uhuru Peak was one of the proudest moments of our lives, and we could not have done it without this amazing team. We highly recommend this company to anyone planning to climb Kilimanjaro on the Machame Route. Their care, expertise, and genuine commitment to their guests made this adventure truly special.
2jipatel25 August 2026Verified
Great Kili hike Great hike! Guides and support staff handled all the logistics and we made it up to the summit. A challenging hike, but our experience was great
Cooper N22 August 2026Verified
Pole pole to the roof of africa with Shah, was great. When deciding which company to book for our Kilimanjaro and Safari trip in Tanzanie we have been in contact with several companies. We wanted to do the private tour as a couple. We had 9 full days to organize. Firstly we thought we will do 7 days and 2 days safari (Tarangire and Ngorngoro). Nevertheless, as our priority was Kilimanjaro we selected 8 days Lemosho route to increase our chances to reach the top. This left only 1 day for safari first. I was trying to discuss with companies the options to go faster If we feel well and then possibly have time to do both national Parks of Tarangire and Ngorongoro. Shah Tours tourned out to be the only very flexible operator to offer this option of shortening the trip If everything goes well. So, on the day 6, when arriving to Kosovo camp from Karaga camp, we asked If we could proceed with our summit on the same day, they did not hesitate to support us. During the whole trip the guides (Innocent and Leon) and the porters shared very positive energy and support. A Lot of dancing, laughter and happy faces even in hard moments. Finally, thanks to all that, we manager to finish our hike in 7 days instead of 8 and had enough time to include another day of safari in our itinerary. No planning, no phone calls, no waiting. Shah was monitoring our progress and once the office received the message we are descending on day 7, everything was organized (additional accomodation and guide for safari, food and transport). We had amazing time in tanzanie, Thank you Shah Tours for your work and efforts in making our trip unforgetable.
Anna M17 August 2026Verified
Enjoyed We started our tour with 4 guides, the walk through the different terrains was an amazing experience, i was happy that Shah Tours catered for vegan food through and the chef cooked delicious food apt for mountain climbing. This route was hard for me as a beginner but i made it. All the personal porters were amazing.
Krunali G16 August 2026Verified
An unforgettable experience we wouldn't want to miss Great, motivating guides, superbly organized tour, very customer-focused, friendly, courteous, and very attentive porters… absolutely no complaints! Highly recommended!
Esther D12 August 2026Verified
Unique, years-long contact with Shah Tours. There's nothing better for travel off the beaten track.
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Andreas kurt B6 August 2026Verified
Kilimanjaro I climbed Mount Kilimanjaro with Joker as the main tour operator and Shah Tours as the local partner. It was truly an unforgettable experience, thanks to the amazing team that supported us throughout the entire trek. Our head guide, Calvin, and our second guide, August, were both incredibly experienced, professional, and motivating. Their knowledge and guidance made me feel safe and confident every step of the way. They did everything they could to help us reach the summit safely and successfully. The entire crew, including the porters and cooks, was outstanding. After seven days together on the mountain, they felt like a second family. Their kindness, encouragement, and dedication made this challenging adventure even more special and memorable. I highly recommend Joker and Shah Tours to anyone planning to climb Mount Kilimanjaro. Thank you for an incredible experience—I will never forget it!
Justine A25 July 2026Verified
Just do it whit shah tours! We had a great experience!! From emails at home to pickup, hotel,... Shoutout to our guide Mathayo, he's the best. Amazing work by the porters!! So much respect.
Lennert F24 July 2026


