2 Days Tanzania Luxury Big Five Safari – Tarangire and Lake Manyara

Book a 2-day Luxury Big Five safari in Tarangire and Lake Manyara featuring guided 4×4 game drives, scenic picnic lunches, and close encounters with lions, elephants, buffalo, leopards, and rhinos. Explore diverse landscapes of savannahs, baobab trees, and soda lakes for an unforgettable Tanzania wildlife experience.

2 Days Exclusive Big Five Wildlife Adventure in Northern Tanzania

Embark on a 2-day luxury Big Five safari across Tarangire National Park and Lake Manyara National Park, where you have the chance to spot lions, elephants, buffaloes, leopards, and rhinos in their natural habitats. Enjoy comfortable 4×4 game drives led by experienced guides, scenic picnic lunches set in the wilderness, and breathtaking views of open savannahs, ancient baobab trees, and the shimmering soda lake. This journey offers a well-rounded safari experience, combining diverse landscapes, rich wildlife encounters, and memorable moments in the heart of Tanzania.

Tour Highlights

Day 1
Arusha to Tarangire – Full Day Game Drive
Day 2
Tarangire - Lake Manyara – Full Day Game Drive & Return to Arusha

Tour Features

Duration 2 Days
🚙
Tour Mode Drive In – Drive Out
🎯
Main Tour Focus Big 5 Safari
Tour Type Private Safari
🌟
Special For Wildlife
Destination/Accommodation
Start
Kilimanjaro
Tour Starting Point
1
Day 1
Tarangire
Overnight: Lemala Mpingo Ridge
2
Day 2
Lake Manyara
Overnight: Arusha Serena Hotel
End
Arusha
Tour Ending Point
Use two fingers to move the map

Arrival Day: Arrival – Kilimanjaro Airport to Arusha

Arrival – Kilimanjaro Airport to Arusha

Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport, where you are warmly welcomed by your driver-guide and assisted with your transfer. You will then travel approximately 25 km (about 45 minutes) to your hotel in Arusha, passing through scenic surroundings along the way. Upon arrival, check in at a luxury lodge and take time to relax and refresh after your journey. Later, you will receive a detailed safari briefing covering your itinerary, travel routes, and important guidelines for the days ahead, ensuring you are fully prepared for your upcoming safari experience.

Destination:
Kilimanjaro Airport
Overnight:
Arusha Serena Hotel
  luxury 4 star lodge
Meals & Drinks:
Lunch, Dinner
Arusha Serena Hotel Images
Arusha Serena Hotel Images
Arusha Serena Hotel Images
Arusha Serena Hotel Images
Arusha Serena Hotel
Arusha Serena Hotel Images
Arusha Serena Hotel Images
Arusha Serena Hotel Images
Arusha Serena Hotel Images

Day 1: Arusha to Tarangire – Full Day Game Drive

Arusha to Tarangire – Full Day Game Drive

Depart early from Arusha for Tarangire National Park, a drive of about 120 km (approximately 2.5 hours). On arrival, explore the park’s 2,850 km² landscape of open savannahs, riverine forests, and iconic baobab trees. Enjoy a full-day 4×4 game drive with opportunities to see elephants, lions, leopards, giraffes, zebras, buffaloes, and various antelope species. Stop for a picnic lunch at a scenic spot inside the park while taking in the surrounding wilderness. Tarangire is also known for its rich birdlife, with over 500 recorded species, including the lilac-breasted roller. In the evening, proceed to your luxury lodge near Tarangire or Lake Manyara for dinner and overnight stay.

Destination:
Tarangire
Overnight:
Lemala Mpingo Ridge
  luxury 5 star lodge
Meals & Drinks:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Luxury 5 star lodge

Day 2: Tarangire - Lake Manyara – Full Day Game Drive & Return to Arusha

Tarangire - Lake Manyara – Full Day Game Drive & Return to Arusha

Drive approximately 90 km (1.5–2 hours) to Lake Manyara National Park, famous for its tree-climbing lions, flamingos, hippos, and large elephant herds. Enjoy a full-day game drive across the 330 km² park, exploring its diverse habitats of groundwater forest, open plains, and the shimmering soda lake. Stop for a scenic picnic lunch near the lake while taking in breathtaking views of the Great Rift Valley escarpment. Continue with an afternoon game drive, with opportunities to spot giraffes, baboons, and abundant birdlife along the lakeshore. In the late afternoon, exit the park and drive approximately 125 km back to Arusha. Arrive in the evening, reflecting on a rewarding wildlife experience and marking the end of your safari journey.

Destination:
Lake Manyara
Overnight:
Arusha Serena Hotel
  luxury 4 star lodge
Meals & Drinks:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Arusha Serena Hotel Images
Arusha Serena Hotel Images
Arusha Serena Hotel Images
Arusha Serena Hotel Images
Arusha Serena Hotel Images
Arusha Serena Hotel Images
Arusha Serena Hotel Images
Arusha Serena Hotel
Arusha Serena Hotel Images

Departure Day: Arusha to Kilimanjaro/Arusha Airport

Arusha to Kilimanjaro/Arusha Airport

After breakfast, enjoy a final transfer of approximately 25 km to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your onward international flight. Depending on your departure schedule, you may have a short time to relax at the lodge or complete final check-out procedures. Your driver-guide will ensure a smooth and timely transfer to the airport. This marks the end of your luxury Big Five safari, leaving you with unforgettable memories of Tanzania’s rich wildlife, dramatic landscapes, and warm hospitality, as well as a truly remarkable journey through some of Africa’s most iconic national parks.

Destination:
Kilimanjaro Airport

TOUR PRICE/COST

We offer two pricing options:

  •   Private Tour (Sharing Price)
  • The cost is shared within your private group. More people means a lower price per person.

  •   Group Joining Tour
  • Join others on a fixed-date tour at a set per-person rate—ideal for solo travelers or small groups.

    Gamedrive Cost

    Pricing Notice: No activities or park fees were found for this itinerary (ID: 1986). Please check the admin panel and ensure fees are selected and saved.

    PRICE INCLUSIONS & PRICE EXCLUSIONS

    Inclusions
  •  Rescue fee
  •  Meals (as specified in the day-by-day description)
  •  All accommodation mentioned (unless clearly labeled as optional upgrade)
  •  All transportation mentioned (unless clearly labeled as optional)
  •  All Taxes/VAT
  • Exclusions
  •  International flights to/from the start/end of the tour
  •  Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour
  •  Tips: tipping guideline
  •  Personal items
  •  Government imposed increase of taxes and/or park fees
  • The Booking Form

    RELATED FAQS ABOUT 2 Days Tanzania Luxury Big Five Safari – Tarangire and Lake Manyara

    Is two days enough to see both Tarangire and Lake Manyara?

    Yes, it is a perfect duration for these two parks because of their proximity. You will spend one full day exploring the "Elephant Paradise" (Tarangire) and the second day discovering the lush groundwater forests and birdlife of Lake Manyara.

    What are the chances of seeing the "Big Five" on this 2-day circuit?

    You have a very high chance of seeing four of the five (Elephant, Lion, Leopard, and Buffalo). Both parks are famous for large elephant herds and tree-climbing lions. However, Rhinos are not typically found in these two specific parks.

    What does "Luxury" accommodation look like on this trip?

    You will stay in a high-end luxury lodge or a permanent tented camp located either inside the park or on the Great Rift Valley Escarpment. These facilities offer en-suite bathrooms, fine dining, swimming pools, and breathtaking views. You will stay in a high-end luxury lodge or a permanent tented camp located either inside the park or on the Great Rift Valley Escarpment. These facilities offer en-suite bathrooms, fine dining, swimming pools, and breathtaking views.

    Why is Tarangire called the "Elephant Paradise"?

    During the dry season, Tarangire has the highest concentration of elephants in North Tanzania. It is common to see herds of up to 300 elephants gathering around the Tarangire River.

    What is the best time of year for this safari?

    While the parks are beautiful year-round, the dry season (June to October) is spectacular for Tarangire as animals congregate at the river. Lake Manyara is stunning during the wet season (November to May) when the birdlife is most vibrant.

    Will we be traveling in a shared or private vehicle?

    As a luxury safari, this is a private experience. You will have a high-spec 4x4 Land Cruiser exclusively for your group, allowing you to set your own pace for photography and game viewing.

    Is Lake Manyara only about the lake?

    Not at all. The park is geographically diverse, featuring a groundwater forest, acacia woodlands, grassy floodplains, and the dramatic 400-meter-deep Rift Valley Escarpment wall.

    Can we do a night game drive on this 2-day trip?

    Night game drives are available as an optional luxury add-on in certain areas of Lake Manyara or in private concessions near Tarangire. It is a great way to see nocturnal animals like porcupines and genets.

    Are meals included in the luxury package?

    Yes. The package includes all meals: a gourmet hot lunch or high-quality picnic in the bush, a multi-course dinner at your luxury lodge, and a full breakfast before starting your second day.

    How long is the drive between Tarangire and Lake Manyara?

    The drive is quite short and scenic, taking approximately 1 to 1.5 hours. This allows for more time spent watching wildlife and less time on the main road.

    Is two days enough to see both Tarangire and Lake Manyara?

    Yes, it is a perfect duration for these two parks because of their proximity. You will spend one full day exploring the "Elephant Paradise" (Tarangire) and the second day discovering the lush groundwater forests and birdlife of Lake Manyara.

    REVIEWS FOR 2 Days Exclusive Big Five Wildlife Adventure in Northern Tanzania

    Write a Review

    An Incredible Two-Day Escape

    5/5

    This two-day safari was truly unforgettable, with Tarangire’s baobab trees and massive elephant herds feeling like scenes from a nature documentary. The guides were professional and ensured every moment was well planned. Watching the wildlife in such a peaceful setting was inspiring. The luxury lodge overlooking the park added comfort and a world-c...
    ... Read more

    By: Robert Harrison
    From: Flag AU

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    Seamless and Fascinating Safari Experience

    5/5

    Everything about this safari ran seamlessly, from the dry plains of Tarangire to the lush forest of Manyara. The scenery changed beautifully and kept us engaged throughout. Our guide was extremely knowledgeable about the birds and wildlife. The combination of comfort, learning, and stunning landscapes made it a remarkable experience.

    By: Sophie Müller
    From: Flag CH

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    Short but Luxurious Wildlife Adventure

    5/5

    Even in just two days, this safari offered full 5-star comfort and unforgettable wildlife moments. The 4×4 vehicle was very comfortable, allowing us to enjoy every scene without stress. Watching lions lounging in the trees at Manyara was a true highlight of my year. The entire trip was well-paced, luxurious, and easy to enjoy from start to finish.

    By: Jonathan Reed
    From: Flag US

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    Private and Exclusive Safari Experience

    5/5

    I loved the privacy and exclusivity of this tour, which made every moment special. The bush lunch was beautifully arranged with proper cutlery and delicious food. Tarangire offered amazing photographic opportunities, especially with leopards. The combination of comfort, privacy, and wildlife made this an exceptional safari.

    By: Elena Petrova
    From: Flag RU

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    Magnificent Wildlife Diversity

    5/5

    The diversity of wildlife in just 48 hours was absolutely breathtaking. We saw hundreds of zebras, wildebeests, and the pink flamingos at Lake Manyara. Every moment was organized smoothly, and the luxury aspect made it relaxing and enjoyable. The safari was perfectly balanced between exploration and comfort.

    By: Carlos Mendez
    From: Flag ES

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    Magical Luxury Tented Camp Experience

    5/5

    Staying in the luxury tented camp was magical, especially falling asleep to the sounds of the African bush. Waking up to elephants nearby was unforgettable. The staff provided high-quality service throughout, making everything effortless. It was an immersive and comfortable way to experience Africa’s wildlife.

    By: Linda Chen
    From: Flag CN

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    Tarangire’s Hidden Gem

    5/5

    Tarangire is a hidden gem that everyone should see at least once. The sheer number of elephants was astonishing and kept us in awe. The luxury and organization of the tour made the whole experience easy and relaxing. Every moment felt well-planned and immersive, allowing full enjoyment of the park’s beauty.

    By: Mark van der Berg
    From: Flag NL

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    Exceptional Guiding and Comfort

    5/5

    I’ve been on many safaris, but this luxury trip stood out for its guiding and attention to detail. The team found the most elusive animals, providing unique opportunities for observation and photography. The atmosphere was comfortable and high-end throughout. It felt both adventurous and relaxing at the same time.

    By: Gabriella Rossi
    From: Flag IT

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    Breathtaking Landscapes and Cuisine

    5/5

    Manyara’s landscapes were absolutely breathtaking, especially from the escarpment views. The safari offered great value for a luxury experience. The lodge meals exceeded expectations and rivaled top city restaurants. Everything was carefully planned, making the adventure both comfortable and memorable.

    By: Thomas Wright
    From: Flag CA

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    High-End, Peaceful Safari Experience

    5/5

    The service throughout the safari was punctual, polite, and very professional. The 4×4 vehicle was clean and well-equipped, making the drives comfortable. Observing Tanzania’s wildlife in such a high-end, peaceful way was unforgettable. The combination of luxury, safety, and natural beauty made it a remarkable experience.

    By: Yuki Sato
    From: Flag JP

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