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2 Day Trips in Tanzania
Exploring Tanzania on a 2 day trip is a perfect option for those with limited time who want a taste of the country’s incredible wildlife and stunning landscapes. Whether you start your journey from Arusha or Dar es Salaam, there are various itineraries and packages to choose from. These trips take you to famous national parks like Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater, offering the chance to encounter diverse wildlife in their natural habitats. Ideal for a quick getaway, these short trips allow you to experience the essence of Tanzania’s natural beauty.
Tanzania is renowned for its rich biodiversity and iconic safari destinations, making it a top choice for travelers seeking an unforgettable wildlife experience. From the world-famous Serengeti National Park to the lesser-known gems like Lake Natron and Mikumi National Park, there are plenty of options for a short but impactful safari adventure. In this guide, we will provide detailed itineraries and essential information to help you plan your 2 day trip to Tanzania, ensuring you make the most of your limited time while experiencing the best the country has to offer.
Trip Ideas
Idea #1: 2 Day Trip to Serengeti National Park
The Serengeti is one of the most iconic safari destinations in Africa, known for its vast savannahs and the Great Migration. Starting from Arusha, you will journey through breathtaking landscapes to reach this world-renowned park.
Day 1: Depart early from Arusha and drive to the Serengeti, arriving by mid-morning. Begin with a game drive en route to your lodge, where you can spot lions, elephants, giraffes, and other wildlife. After checking in and enjoying lunch, head out for an afternoon game drive, where you can witness more of the park’s diverse fauna. Spend the night at your lodge.
Day 2: Rise early for a morning game drive to catch the early risers and predators. After a packed lunch, continue exploring the Serengeti before returning to Arusha in the evening.
Idea #2: 2 Day Trip to Lake Natron
Lake Natron, located near the Kenyan border, is a unique destination known for its striking landscapes and large flocks of flamingos.
Day 1: Depart from Arusha and drive to Lake Natron, arriving by late morning. Explore the area, visit the Engare Sero Waterfall for a refreshing swim, and enjoy a guided walk to see the flamingos at Lake Natron. Spend the night at your lodge.
Day 2: After an early breakfast, hike to the base of the Ol Doinyo Lengai volcano for stunning views. Enjoy a packed lunch and a leisurely walk around the lake to observe more birdlife before returning to Arusha in the late afternoon.
Idea #3: 2 Day Trip to Lake Manyara & Lake Eyasi
This itinerary combines the lush beauty of Lake Manyara National Park with the cultural experience of visiting Lake Eyasi.
Day 1: Depart from Arusha and arrive at Lake Manyara by mid-morning for a game drive, where you can spot elephants, hippos, and flamingos. After checking in and enjoying lunch, continue with an afternoon game drive. Spend the night at your lodge.
Day 2: Drive to Lake Eyasi to visit the Hadzabe tribe. This experience offers a unique insight into the hunter-gatherer lifestyle of the Hadzabe people. After enjoying a packed lunch and spending more time with the tribe, return to Arusha in the late afternoon.
Idea #4: 2 Day Trip to Mikumi National Park
Mikumi National Park is a great option for those starting their safari adventure from Dar es Salaam.
Day 1: Depart from Dar es Salaam early and drive to Mikumi, arriving by mid-morning. Begin with a game drive en route to your lodge, where you can spot lions, giraffes, elephants, and zebras. After checking in and enjoying lunch, head out for an afternoon game drive. Spend the night at your lodge.
Day 2: Enjoy an early morning game drive to catch the early risers and predators. After a packed lunch and another game drive, return to Dar es Salaam in the late afternoon.
Idea #5: 2 Day Trip to Nyerere National Park
Formerly known as Selous Game Reserve, Nyerere National Park is one of the largest protected areas in Africa.
Day 1: Depart from Dar es Salaam and drive to Nyerere National Park, arriving by mid-morning. Begin with a game drive en route to your lodge, where you can spot elephants, lions, and hippos. After checking in and enjoying lunch, head out for an afternoon game drive. Spend the night at your lodge.
Day 2: Enjoy a morning boat safari on the Rufiji River to spot crocodiles and birdlife. After a packed lunch and another game drive, return to Dar es Salaam in the late afternoon.
Idea #6: 2 Day Trip to Tarangire and Lake Manyara
This itinerary allows you to explore two diverse ecosystems in Northern Tanzania.
Day 1: Depart from Arusha and drive to Tarangire National Park, known for its large herds of elephants and baobab trees. After a morning game drive and lunch, head to Lake Manyara National Park. Spend the night at a lodge near the park.
Day 2: Enjoy a morning game drive in Lake Manyara, where you can see tree-climbing lions, flamingos, and diverse birdlife. After lunch, return to Arusha in the late afternoon.
Idea #7: 2 Day Trip to Lake Manyara & Ngorongoro Crater
This itinerary combines the scenic beauty of Lake Manyara with the unique experience of the Ngorongoro Crater.
Day 1: Depart from Arusha and drive to Lake Manyara National Park for a morning game drive, followed by lunch. In the afternoon, proceed to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Spend the night at a lodge on the crater rim.
Day 2: Descend into the Ngorongoro Crater for a game drive, where you can see a variety of wildlife, including the Big Five. After lunch, return to Arusha in the late afternoon.
Idea #8: 2 Day Trip to Tarangire & Ngorongoro
This itinerary offers a chance to explore the diverse landscapes of Tarangire National Park and the unique Ngorongoro Crater.
Day 1: Depart from Arusha and drive to Tarangire National Park for a morning game drive, followed by lunch. In the afternoon, continue to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Spend the night at a lodge on the crater rim.
Day 2: Descend into the Ngorongoro Crater for a game drive, where you can see a variety of wildlife, including the Big Five. After lunch, return to Arusha in the late afternoon.
FAQs
How much is a 2 day Trip in Tanzania?
A 2 day trip in Tanzania typically costs between $400 and $800+ per person. This price range includes park fees, accommodation, meals, and transportation. Prices can vary based on the level of accommodation, the parks visited, and whether the safari is private or part of a group.
Is a 2 day trip to Tanzania enough?
Although a 2-day trip is shorter than the ideal safari duration of 5 to 7 days, it still offers a rewarding experience. This quick getaway allows you to explore one or two national parks and encounter a variety of wildlife. For those with limited time, a 2-day safari is an excellent option to experience Tanzania’s natural beauty and wildlife.
When is the best time to go on a safari in Tanzania?
The best time to go on a safari in Tanzania is during the dry season, from June to October. During this period, wildlife is easier to spot as animals gather around water sources. The Great Migration in the Serengeti also peaks around this time. The short rainy season (November to December) and the long rainy season (March to May) can make some roads impassable, but the landscape is lush and beautiful.
What animals should I expect to see?
On a 2 day trip in Tanzania, you can expect to see a wide variety of animals, including:
- The Big Five: lions, elephants, buffaloes, leopards, and rhinos
- Giraffes, zebras, and wildebeest
- Hippos and crocodiles
- Numerous bird species, including flamingos and ostriches
- Cheetahs, hyenas, and jackals
What type of car will be used on a Tanzania safari?
Safaris in Tanzania typically use 4×4 Land Cruisers or similar vehicles. These vehicles are equipped with pop-up roofs for optimal game viewing and photography. They are well-suited to handle the rugged terrain of the national parks.
Is it possible to join a group?
Yes, it is possible to join a group for a 2 day Tanzania safari. Group safaris are a cost-effective option as the expenses are shared among the participants. This is a great way to meet other travelers and share the experience.
Is this Tanzania safari private?
While group safaris are available, you can also opt for a private safari. A private safari offers a more personalized experience, allowing you to tailor the itinerary to your preferences and travel at your own pace. It is ideal for couples, families, or small groups of friends.
What is included in the itinerary?
A typical 2-day safari itinerary includes:
- Transportation in a 4×4 safari vehicle
- Professional driver/guide
- Park entry fees
- Accommodation (lodge or campsite)
- Meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
- Game drives and activities as per the itinerary
- Drinking water during the safari
Conclusion
A 2 day trip to Tanzania offers a compact yet fulfilling adventure, allowing you to experience some of the best national parks and wildlife in the country. Whether you choose to explore the Serengeti, Lake Natron, Lake Manyara, Mikumi, or Nyerere National Park, you are guaranteed an unforgettable journey. With the provided itineraries and essential information, you’re well-equipped to plan and enjoy your short safari in Tanzania.
