2 Days Tanzania Safari in January from Tarangire to Ngorongoro

Plan a 2-day Tanzania safari in January. Visit Tarangire and Ngorongoro Crater to see lions and rhinos during the green short dry season with expert guides.

2 Days Explore Wildlife in Tanzania Safari in January to Northern Parks

This 2-day Tanzania safari in January takes you to Tarangire National Park and the Ngorongoro Crater during the short dry season. The landscape is lush and green, providing a beautiful backdrop for photography. This 2-day safari in January is ideal for spotting large elephant herds and the rare black rhino. Experience a high-quality 2-day safari in January in Tanzania with professional guides who help you find predators active in the vibrant plains.

Tour Highlights:

Day 1
Arusha to Tarangire National Park
Day 2
Ngorongoro Crater – Back to Arusha
Duration 2 Days
🚙
Tour Mode -
🎯
Main Tour Focus -
Tour Type -
Destination/Accommodation
Start/End
arusha
Tour Starting & Ending Point
1
Day 1
Tarangire
Overnight: Baobab Tented Lodge
2
Day 2
Ngorongoro Crater
Overnight: Gold Crest Hotel

Arrival Day: Arrival at Kilimanjaro Airport to Arusha

Arrival at Kilimanjaro Airport to Arusha

Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), our driver will meet you for a private transfer to your hotel in Arusha. The drive covers 50 kilometers and takes about 1 hour. January typically offers clear skies, and you may see a stunning view of Mount Meru as you enter the city. This day is for resting and receiving a briefing for your 2-day Tanzania safari in January. Your guide will discuss the weather and wildlife expectations for the next two days.

Destination: Kilimanjaro Airport

Accommodation: Gold Crest Hotel

  mid rage 3 star lodge

Meals & Drinks: Lunch, Dinner

Day 1: Arusha to Tarangire National Park

 Arusha to Tarangire National Park

After breakfast, you will travel 120 kilometers to Tarangire National Park, a journey of approximately 2.5 hours. During your 2-day safari in January, you will see Tarangire at its greenest. This park is famous for its elephants and baobab trees. A positive and unexpected moment often happens when you spot tree-climbing lions, a behavior sometimes seen in January as they seek to escape the damp ground. After a picnic lunch, you will continue your game drive before heading to your lodge in Karatu for the night.

Destination: Tarangire

Accommodation: Baobab Tented Lodge

  mid rage 3 star lodge

Baobab Tented Lodge Tarangire Images
Baobab Tented Lodge Tarangire Images
Baobab Tented Lodge Tarangire Images
Baobab Tented Lodge Tarangire Images
Baobab Tented Lodge Tarangire Images
Baobab Tented Lodge Tarangire Images
Baobab Tented Lodge Tarangire Images
Baobab Tented Lodge Tarangire Images
Baobab Tented Lodge Tarangire Images
Baobab Tented Lodge Tarangire Images

Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 2: Ngorongoro Crater – Back to Arusha

Ngorongoro Crater – Back to Arusha

The final day of your 2-day safari in January in Tanzania begins with a descent into the Ngorongoro Crater. You will spend the morning searching for the rare black rhino and large prides of lions. The crater floor is exceptionally vibrant this month. An unexpected positive highlight often occurs at the hippo pool, where you can watch massive hippos surfacing just a few meters away. After a picnic lunch on the crater floor, you will begin the 180-kilometer return journey to Arusha, arriving in the evening for your departure.

Destination: Ngorongoro Crater

Accommodation: Gold Crest Hotel

  mid rage 3 star lodge

Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

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.

    Private (Shared) Price

    Pricing Notice: No activities or park fees were found for this itinerary (ID: 2217). 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 Safari in January from Tarangire to Ngorongoro

    What is the typical weather for a two-day January safari in Tanzania?

    January falls during the short dry season, offering warm temperatures and clear blue skies for most of the day. You can expect occasional brief showers, but they rarely disrupt your game drives in Tarangire or the crater. The dust is relatively low compared to the peak dry season, making the air very fresh and clear for photography. It is a pleasant time to explore the Northern Circuit without extreme heat.

    Will I be able to see the Big Five during this Tarangire and the Ngorongoro Crater trip?

    The Ngorongoro Crater is one of the most reliable places in the world to spot lions, buffaloes, and the rare black rhino in a single afternoon. While leopards are naturally more elusive, your guide will work hard to track them in the forested areas of the crater rim. Since it is only a short itinerary, we focus on high density wildlife zones to maximize your chances of seeing these iconic animals.

    Is January a good time to see baby animals in these parks?

    Yes, many resident animals in the region have their young during this month because of the nutritious green grass available after the short rains. You are likely to see elephant calves in Tarangire and zebra or wildebeest foals grazing in the crater floor. Predatory action can also be quite high during this period as lions and hyenas take advantage of the vulnerable young. It is a fascinating time for nature lovers to witness the circle of life.

    What are the birding opportunities like during a two-day January safari in Tanzania?

    January is peak season for birding because many migratory species from Europe and North Africa are present in the region. You will see colorful species like kingfishers, eagles, and vultures across the diverse landscapes of the parks. Tarangire is particularly famous for having a high concentration of breeding birds during this time of year. Your guide can help identify the various species using the binoculars provided in the vehicle.

    How busy are the parks during this time of the year?

    January is considered a shoulder season, so you will encounter fewer vehicles compared to the peak months of July or August. This provides a much more intimate viewing experience when observing wildlife on the crater floor. You can often enjoy sightings for longer periods without feeling rushed by other safari cars. It is the perfect balance between great weather and manageable tourist numbers.

    What kind of vehicle is used for these game drives?

    We provide a customized 4x4 Land Cruiser with a pop-up roof for unobstructed 360 degree views of the savanna. Each vehicle is equipped with a cooler box for drinks and charging ports for your electronic devices so you never run out of battery. There is also a first aid kit and a radio system to stay in contact with other guides for the latest animal sightings. The sturdy suspension ensures a relatively smooth ride over the rugged terrain.

    What are the accommodation options for this Tarangire and Ngorongoro journey?

    Travelers can choose between luxury lodges, mid-range tented camps, or basic public campsites depending on their personal budget. We prioritize locations that are close to the park gates to save travel time during your short visit. All our partner lodges offer high standards of cleanliness and serve delicious local and international cuisine. You will be able to rest comfortably after a full day of excitement in the bush.

    Are all meals included in the package?

    Your package covers full board meals consisting of breakfast, picnic lunches, and hot dinners at the lodge or camp. We provide plenty of bottled water in the vehicle to keep you hydrated during the warm January afternoons. Special dietary requirements like vegetarian or gluten free options can also be accommodated if you inform us during the booking process. You will always have enough energy for the next adventure.

    Can we visit a local Maasai village during this short itinerary?

    Yes, we can easily arrange a visit to a Maasai boma near the Ngorongoro Conservation Area for an additional fee. This cultural experience allows you to learn about their traditional lifestyle, unique architecture, and vibrant dances. It is a wonderful way to add a human element to your wildlife focused trip. This activity usually takes about an hour and can be fitted into your second day.

    Where does the tour usually begin?

    The safari usually starts from Arusha town or Kilimanjaro International Airport early in the morning of the first day. Your guide will meet you with a sign and assist with your luggage before heading toward Tarangire National Park. We can also help with booking a hotel in Arusha for the night before your safari starts to ensure a smooth departure. This ensures you get to the park gates as early as possible for the best morning light.

    REVIEWS FOR 2 Days Explore Wildlife in Tanzania Safari in January to Northern Parks

    Write a Review

    Perfect Nature Escape

    5/5

    We had an amazing time and saw four of the Big Five in just two days. The guide was very patient and knew so much about the birds in Tarangire. We were picked up right on time from our hotel in Arusha and the vehicle was very clean. The picnic lunch was fresh and filled with a variety of healthy options. I would definitely recommend Burigi Chato Sa...
    ... Read more

    By: Sarah Miller
    From: Flag AT

    Photos related to the place visited

    Review Image
    Review Image
    Review Image

    Great Guides, Great Experience

    5/5

    The guide was very patient and knew so much about the birds in Tarangire. We were picked up right on time from our hotel in Arusha and the vehicle was very clean. The picnic lunch was fresh and filled with a variety of healthy options. I would definitely recommend Burigi Chato Safaris CO LTD to anyone with a tight schedule.

    By: jafety kuyain
    From: Flag AR

    Photos related to the place visited

    Review Image
    Review Image

    Exceptional Safari Service

    5/5

    The crater views were breathtaking and the organization was perfect. Everything ran smoothly and the food at the lodge was delicious after a long day. We saw a rhino within an hour of descending into the crater floor which was lucky. Our driver was a real expert at spotting lions hidden in the grass. It was a wonderful way to see the best of Tanzan...
    ... Read more

    By: James Taylor
    From: Flag AE

    Photos related to the place visited

    Review Image
    Review Image
    Review Image

    Amazing Wildlife Adventure

    5/5

    Burigi Chato Safaris CO LTD provided an excellent experience for my family. The elephants in Tarangire were so close to the car that we could hear them breathing. Our kids loved the pop-up roof and seeing the baby zebras in the crater. The lodge staff were very welcoming and made us feel right at home. It was a short trip but we felt like we saw a ...
    ... Read more

    By: Klaus Weber
    From: Flag ES

    Photos related to the place visited

    Review Image
    Review Image
    Review Image

    Unforgettable Safari Experience

    5/5

    Our kids loved the pop-up roof and seeing the baby zebras in the crater. The lodge staff were very welcoming and made us feel right at home. It was a short trip but we felt like we saw a whole world of wildlife.

    By: Michael Thompson
    From: Flag US

    Photos related to the place visited

    Review Image
    Review Image
    Review Image

    Great Guides, Great Experience

    5/5

    January is such a beautiful and green time to visit these parks. I was worried about the rain but it only lasted for twenty minutes in the afternoon. The air was so clear and my photos of the baobab trees came out perfectly. The guide was very knowledgeable about the history of the Ngorongoro area. This company really knows how to manage a professi...
    ... Read more

    By: Sarah Jenkins
    From: Flag AF

    Photos related to the place visited

    Review Image
    Review Image
    Review Image

    Amazing Wildlife Adventure

    5/5

    January is such a beautiful and green time to visit these parks. I was worried about the rain but it only lasted for twenty minutes in the afternoon. The air was so clear and my photos of the baobab trees came out perfectly. The guide was very knowledgeable about the history of the Ngorongoro area. This company really knows how to manage a professi...
    ... Read more

    By: Samantha King
    From: Flag VU

    Photos related to the place visited

    Review Image
    Review Image
    Review Image

    Unforgettable Safari Experience

    5/5

    This was a well organized trip that exceeded all of my expectations. We saw three different lion prides in the crater and a leopard near the entrance of Tarangire. The vehicle was sturdy and handled the bumpy roads with no issues at all. I appreciated having the charging ports to keep my camera ready for action. It was a fantastic adventure from st...
    ... Read more

    By: Sophie Martin
    From: Flag ZA

    Photos related to the place visited

    Review Image
    Review Image
    Review Image

    Top Safari in Tanzania

    5/5

    A very efficient way to see the most famous parks in the north. We saved a lot of time by staying in a lodge right next to the crater gate. The guide found a rhino for us which made my whole year. We also saw thousands of flamingos in the salt lake which was a beautiful sight. The entire experience was seamless and very rewarding.

    By: Sophie Gagnon
    From: Flag AF

    Photos related to the place visited

    Review Image
    Review Image
    Review Image

    Amazing Wildlife Adventure

    5/5

    The elephants in Tarangire were the highlight of my holiday. I have never seen such large herds so close to the road before. Our guide was very respectful of the animals and never crowded them. The picnic spots were well chosen and had clean facilities for us to use. It was a perfect introduction to the Tanzanian wilderness.

    By: Pierre Dubois
    From: Flag FR

    Photos related to the place visited

    Review Image
    Review Image
    Review Image

    Great Guides, Great Experience

    5/5

    Excellent logistics and a very friendly team made this a great trip. We were able to customize our start time so we could catch the sunrise over the crater rim. The landscape in January is lush and full of life which makes for great scenery. Every meal was high quality and there was always enough water in the car. I would definitely travel with the...
    ... Read more

    By: Pierre Martin
    From: Flag GB

    Photos related to the place visited

    Review Image
    Review Image
    Review Image