Join this 2-day Tanzania Big Five safari to Tarangire and Lake Manyara. Spot lions, elephants, and leopards with expert local guides on this short tour.
This 2-day Tanzania Big Five safari visits Tarangire and Lake Manyara National Park. Spot massive elephant herds and tree-climbing lions with expert local guides. This tour is perfect for travelers with limited time wanting a professional wildlife experience in the northern circuit. Enjoy high-quality game drives and see iconic African predators and herbivores in their natural habitat.
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), our driver will meet you and provide a private transfer to your hotel in Arusha. The drive covers 50 kilometers and takes about 1 hour. This day is for resting and receiving a briefing about your 2-day Tanzania Big Five safari to Lake Manyara & Tarangire. You may see the peak of Mount Meru from the city. This evening allows you to prepare your gear and meet your guide to discuss the departure for the parks.
Destination: Kilimanjaro Airport
Accommodation: Gold Crest Hotel
mid rage 3 star lodge
Meals & Drinks: Lunch, Dinner
The safari departs Arusha at 8:00 AM for a 130-kilometer drive to Lake Manyara National Park, taking about 2.5 hours. You will explore the groundwater forest, home to baboons and blue monkeys. Your guide will search for the famous tree-climbing lions and large elephant families. A positive and unexpected moment often occurs when you see lions resting high on acacia branches to avoid insects. After a picnic lunch and 6 hours of viewing, you will drive to a nearby lodge for dinner and rest.
Destination: Lake Manyara
Accommodation: Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge
luxury 4 star lodge
Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After breakfast, you will travel about 100 kilometers (2 hours) to Tarangire National Park. This park is a core part of your 2-day Big Five safari in Tanzania, known for ancient baobab trees and the Tarangire River. You will look for lions, buffaloes, and leopards gathering near the water. An unexpected positive highlight often happens at the riverbanks, where you can watch hundreds of elephants bathing together. After a picnic lunch and 5 hours of game drives, you will begin the 120-kilometer drive back to Arusha, arriving by 6:00 PM.
Destination: Tarangire
Accommodation: Gold Crest Hotel
mid rage 3 star lodge
Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
We offer two pricing options:
The cost is shared within your private group. More people means a lower price per person.
Join others on a fixed-date tour at a set per-person rate—ideal for solo travelers or small groups.
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The Booking Form
Join this 2-day Tanzania Big Five safari to Tarangire and Lake Manyara. Spot lions, elephants, and leopards with expert local guides on this short tour.
N.B: After you send your booking we will get back to you with in 24 hours.
Is this two day big five safari suitable for families with children?
Yes, this short trip is perfect for families because the driving distances between Arusha and the parks are quite short. Children will enjoy the high density of elephants in Tarangire and the monkeys in Lake Manyara without getting too tired from long hours on the road.
What are the chances of seeing the big five during this short Tanzania safari?
While you are very likely to see lions, elephants, leopards, and buffaloes, rhinos are not typically found in these two specific parks. This itinerary focuses on providing a rich wildlife experience where you can see four of the big five in a very short amount of time.
What kind of vehicle is used for the Lake Manyara and Tarangire game drives?
We use 4x4 safari Land Cruisers that are specially designed with a pop up roof for 360 degree bird watching and photography. Each vehicle is equipped with a radio system, charging ports for your cameras, and a cooler box with bottled water.
Can we customize the 2 day itinerary to add a cultural visit?
You can certainly add a visit to a Maasai boma or a local market on your way to or from the parks. This allows you to experience the rich culture of the Tanzanian people alongside your wildlife viewing schedule.
What should I pack for a 48 hour trip to these northern parks?
It is best to pack light with neutral colored clothing, a warm sweater for the cool mornings, and a good pair of binoculars. Do not forget your sunscreen, a wide brimmed hat, and insect repellent to stay comfortable during the afternoon sun.
Are meals and drinks included in this Tanzania Big Five trip?
It is best to pack light with neutral colored clothing, a warm sweater for the cool mornings, and a good pair of binoculars. Do not forget your sunscreen, a wide brimmed hat, and insect repellent to stay comfortable during the afternoon sun.
What is the best time of year to visit Tarangire and Lake Manyara?
Do not forget your sunscreen, a wide brimmed hat, and insect repellent to stay comfortable during the afternoon sun.
Does the safari package include pick up and drop off services?
We offer complimentary pick up from your hotel in Arusha or the airport to start your adventure. At the end of the second day, our driver will ensure you are safely returned to your preferred location in town or the airport for your flight.
Is it possible to see tree climbing lions in Lake Manyara National Park?
Manyara is one of the few places in Africa where lions have developed the habit of climbing trees to rest. While sightings are not guaranteed, our experienced guides know the specific areas where these majestic cats are often spotted lounging on branches.
What type of accommodation is used for this two day Tanzania safari?
Depending on your budget, you can stay in a luxury lodge, a mid range tented camp, or go for a basic camping experience. Most accommodations are located near the park boundaries to ensure we can start our game drives early the next morning.
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