Overview
2 Day Tarangire Safari
The 2 Day Tarangire Safari is a short yet rewarding adventure into one of Tanzania’s most iconic national parks. Known as the “home of elephants,” Tarangire offers vast herds roaming beneath ancient baobab trees, along with lions, giraffes, buffalo, zebras, and a rich variety of birdlife.
Overnight stays are arranged in lodges or tented camps inside or near the park, giving you ample time to enjoy sunrise and sunset game drives. On the second day, you can either continue exploring Tarangire’s savannahs or switch to Lake Manyara National Park for a different landscape featuring flamingos, tree-climbing lions, and lush groundwater forests. This compact safari is perfect for travelers with limited time who still want an authentic Tanzanian wildlife experience.
2 Tarangire Safari
Experience the best of northern Tanzania in just two days with game drives in Tarangire National Park, famous for elephants, baobabs, predators, and diverse birdlife, offering an unforgettable short safari adventure.
Day 1 – Arusha / Moshi → Tarangire National Park

Your safari begins in the morning (pick-up from Moshi, Arusha, or Kilimanjaro Airport between 08:00–10:00) as you drive southwest towards Tarangire National Park. The park is renowned for its vast elephant herds, towering baobab trees, and high concentrations of wildlife, especially during the dry season. Expect to see zebras, wildebeest, giraffes, buffalo, and predators such as lions and leopards. With over 500 bird species, Tarangire is also a paradise for bird lovers.
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: Tarangire Sopa Lodge

Style: Mid-range lodge
Location: Tarangire National Park, Tanzania
Website: Visit website
TripAdvisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Karibu Elephant Springs

Style: Mid range lodge
Location: Tarangire National Park, Tanzania
Website: Visit website
TripAdvisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Nasikia Ndovu Tented Lodge

Style: Mid-range to up-market tented camp
Location: Tarangire National Park, Tanzania
Website: Visit website
TripAdvisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Lake Burunge Tented Lodge

Style: Budget tented camp
Location: Lake Burunge, Tarangire corridor, Tanzania
Website: Visit website
TripAdvisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Burunge Baobab Tented Lodge

Style: Budget range
Location: Lake Burunge / Mwada (just outside Tarangire National Park), Tanzania
Website: Visit website
TripAdvisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Sangaiwe Tented Lodge

Style: Budget range
Location: Sangaiwe Gate / Sangaiwe Hill, Tarangire National Park (border), Tanzania
Website: Visit website
TripAdvisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Sangaiwe Mbuyu Tented Lodge

Style: Budget lodge
Location: Western edge of Tarangire National Park, near Sangaiwe Gate, Tanzania
Website: Visit website
TripAdvisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Karibu Elephant Springs

Style: Luxury tented lodge
Location: Inside Tarangire National Park, Tanzania
Website: Visit website
Trip-Advisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Asilia Olivers Camp

Style: Luxury lodge
Location: Tarangire National Park (southeastern area near Silale Swamps), Tanzania
Website: Visit website
Trip-Advisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Elewana Tarangire Treetops

Style: Luxury lodge
Location: Randilen WMA (bordering Tarangire National Park), Tanzania
Website: Visit website
Trip-Advisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Nimali Tarangire

Style: Luxury lodge
Location: Private concession bordering Tarangire National Park, Tanzania
Website: Visit website
Trip-Advisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Tarangire Campsite

Style: Campsite
Location: Tarangire National Park
No website available
No reviews available
Day 2 – Tarangire or Lake Manyara National Park → Arusha / Moshi / JRO

After breakfast, enjoy a morning game drive either in Tarangire (with more chances to see elephants, lions, and raptors) or Lake Manyara National Park, where the Rift Valley escarpment creates diverse habitats. Manyara is famed for its tree-climbing lions, flamingos, and over 400 bird species. After your picnic lunch, return to Arusha, Moshi, or Kilimanjaro Airport for evening departures.
Quick facts
- Distance from previous location: 2–4 hrs from Tarangire/Lake Manyara to Arusha
- Expected game drive: Morning to early afternoon
- Optional activities: Treetop walkway, Mto wa Mbu cultural visit
- Meals usually included: Breakfast, lunch
- Commonly seen:Tree-climbing lions, elephants, giraffes, buffalo, hippos, flamingos, baboons, pelicans, monkeys, diverse birdlife
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 Tarangire Safari prices that include park fees, 4×4 transport, and full-board accommodations. Customize your adventure with cultural add-ons, a Lake Manyara extension, or upgrades to lodges and tented camps.
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, lions, giraffes, and diverse birdlife
- Sunrise and sunset safaris offering excellent wildlife photography and predator sightings in Tarangire’s open savannah
- Comfortable lodges, tented camps, or campsites near the park, 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 Tarangire Safari with optional extras such as Maasai village visits, Lake Manyara treetop walkways, cultural encounters, or luxury lodge upgrades for greater comfort and adventure.

Maasai cultural village visit

Tarangire Hot Air Balloon Safari

Tarangire walking safari

Olduvai Gorge & Shifting Sands

Tarangire hot bush lunch

Materuni Waterfall & Coffee Tour

Lake Eyasi Cultural Experience

Lake Manyara treetop walkway

Lake Manyara walking safari

Mto wa Mbu Village & Activities

Chemka (Kikuletwa) Hot Springs

Ngorongoro Highlands Hike

Lake Manyara Canoeing safari

Lake Natron Extension
Essential Information for Your 2 Day Tarangire Safari
Key tips, packing advice, park rules, and travel details to ensure a seamless short safari through Tarangire’s elephant-filled savannahs early starts, cash for tips, light layers, sun/bug protection, and respectful wildlife distances

Travel Info for Tanzania

Which Airport to Choose?

Vaccinations & Health Tips
Photos & Videos at 2 Day Tarangire Safari
Discover stunning Photos & Videos from the 2 Day Tarangire Safari, highlighting vast elephant herds, iconic baobab trees, diverse birdlife, and unforgettable wildlife encounters across Tarangire’s scenic savannah landscapes.
Why Book Your 2 Day 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 Tarangire Safari
Get quick answers about the 2 Day Tarangire Safari, including daily schedules, best seasons, elephant and predator sightings, accommodation options, park fees, vehicle types, cultural add-ons, packing tips, and practical planning advice for a smooth, time-efficient trip.
Wildlife in Tarangire National Park
Tarangire National Park is famous for its massive elephant herds, towering baobab trees, and diverse wildlife. Visitors can spot lions, leopards, giraffes, buffalo, wildebeest, zebras, and over 500 bird species. Depending on the season, the park also hosts impressive migratory wildlife, creating excellent game-viewing opportunities. Its rich biodiversity ensures that even within two days, you’ll encounter a wide variety of iconic African animals in a natural setting.
Family and Child Suitability

Yes, the 2 Day Tarangire Safari is family-friendly. Many lodges and camps offer child-friendly services such as family rooms, shorter game drives, and flexible meal options. Tarangire’s open savannahs and abundance of elephants make it exciting for children. Parents should ensure young travelers are prepared for bumpy drives, sun protection, and enough water. Guides are experienced in adapting itineraries to make the safari enjoyable and safe for families.
Accommodation Options
Accommodation ranges from comfortable mid-range lodges to tented camps inside or near Tarangire. Popular choices include Lake Burunge Tented Lodge, Sangaiwe Tented Lodge, Karibu Elephant Springs, or Tarangire Sopa Lodge. Each property offers private ensuite rooms, authentic safari ambiance, and hearty meals. Travelers can upgrade to luxury lodges or opt for budget campsites depending on preference and budget, ensuring flexibility for different comfort levels.
Best Time to Visit
The best time for the 2 Day Tarangire Safari is during the dry season, from June to October, when wildlife congregates around the Tarangire River, making game viewing exceptional. However, the green season (November to May) brings lush landscapes, migratory birds, and fewer crowds. Each season offers unique experiences, so whether you seek dense wildlife sightings or stunning green scenery, Tarangire remains rewarding year-round.
Game Drive Duration
Across two days, you’ll enjoy approximately 10–12 hours of game drives in Tarangire. The first day includes an afternoon or extended drive after arrival, while the second day typically offers a full morning safari before returning to Arusha or Moshi. Game drives are flexible, with options for sunrise departures or extended exploration. This schedule ensures guests maximize wildlife encounters while balancing comfort, photography opportunities, and relaxation at the lodge.
Meals and Park Fees
Yes, safari packages usually include park entrance fees, daily game drives, professional driver-guides, and meals as outlined: lunch and dinner on day one, breakfast and lunch on day two. Bottled water is also provided during game drives. Alcoholic drinks, personal purchases, tips, and optional add-ons such as cultural tours are excluded. Confirm inclusions with your tour operator to ensure no surprises during your safari.
Safari Vehicles
Safaris are conducted in custom 4x4 Toyota Land Cruisers with pop-up roofs for unobstructed wildlife viewing and photography. Vehicles seat 5–7 passengers comfortably and are equipped with charging ports, cool boxes for water, and large windows. Each safari is guided by an experienced driver-guide knowledgeable about Tarangire’s landscapes, wildlife behavior, and culture. The reliable vehicles ensure safe travel on both paved roads and rugged park tracks.
Access to Tarangire National Park
Tarangire is located about 120 km (75 miles) southwest of Arusha, roughly a 2.5- to 3-hour drive depending on road conditions. Most itineraries include a private transfer from your Arusha or Moshi hotel directly to the park gate. Transfers are in safari vehicles, allowing wildlife sightings even before entering the park. Some operators can arrange flights to nearby airstrips, but for 2-day safaris, road transfers are standard and practical.
Combining Tarangire with Other Destinations
Yes, the 2 Day Tarangire Safari can be extended or combined with other destinations. Popular extensions include Lake Manyara for birdlife and tree-climbing lions, or Serengeti for big-cat action and migration sightings. Cultural add-ons with the Maasai, Hadzabe, or Datoga tribes are also possible. Short beach escapes in Zanzibar can follow. Flexibility makes it ideal for travelers seeking to build a customized Tanzanian adventure beyond Tarangire.
Packing Essentials
For this safari, pack lightweight neutral-colored clothing, a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and insect repellent. A warm layer is recommended for cool mornings. Bring binoculars, a camera with extra batteries, and reusable water bottles. Comfortable shoes are useful for walking around lodges or optional cultural add-ons. Most lodges provide essentials like towels and toiletries, so focus on safari gear and personal comfort to maximize your two-day Tarangire adventure.
Other Tours Connected to 2 Day 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


