2-Day Tanzania Safari Tours – Best Short Safari Packages
Our 2-day Tanzania safari tours are perfect packages for travelers who want a quick yet unforgettable wildlife adventure. Whether you’re flying in from Zanzibar, Arusha, or Dar es Salaam, these short safaris let you explore iconic parks like Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire, Serengeti, Lake Manyara, or Mikumi — all within two exciting days.
Why Choose a 2-Day Safari in Tanzania?
A 2-day safari in Tanzania is ideal for those who want a taste of the African Big 5 safari and wilderness without committing to a long itinerary. It’s a perfect option for:
-
Travelers with limited vacation time
-
Visitors staying in Zanzibar or Dar es Salaam, looking for a short getaway
-
First-time safari-goers
In just two days, you’ll enjoy thrilling game drives, see the Big Five, follow migration herds, and stay in authentic lodges or tented camps. With our fly-in options, you’ll save travel time and spend more hours in the parks.
Top 2-Day Tanzania Safari Packages
Below are our most popular 2-day safari itineraries — each designed for comfort, convenience, and maximum wildlife viewing.
.jpg)
What to Expect on a 2-Day Safari in Tanzania
Even with limited time, a 2-day safari delivers a full adventure.
Sample 2-Day Safari Itineraries, prices & costs:
Option 1: 2 day Tarangire & Ngorongoro Crater safari.
Day 1: Depart early, enjoy a morning and afternoon game drive in Tarangire or Lake Manyara National park, then relax at your lodge with a sundowner.
Day 2: Early morning Ngorongoro Crater safari before returning to your departure point.
Option 2: 2 day Serengeti Fly-in/Out Safari from Zanzibar, Arusha or Dar Es Salaam.
Day 1: Zanzibar → Serengeti National Park (Central Serengeti Game Drive)
Fly from Zanzibar, Arusha or Dar es Salaam to Serengeti National Park, enjoying breathtaking aerial views of Tanzania’s landscapes. Dinner and overnight at a luxury lodge or tented camp inside the park.
Day 2: Morning Game Drive → Fly Back to Zanzibar
Start your day early with a sunrise game drive — the best time to see predators on the move and witness the Serengeti come alive. After breakfast, continue exploring before transferring to the airstrip for your return flight to Zanzibar, arriving by late afternoon.
Option3: 2-Day Selous Fly-In/Out Safari from Zanzibar – Itinerary
Day 1: Zanzibar → Selous/Nyerere National Park (Afternoon Game Drive & Boat Safari)
Fly from Zanzibar to Selous Game Reserve, one of Tanzania’s largest and most pristine wildlife areas. Upon arrival, embark on an afternoon game drive. Optionally, enjoy a scenic boat safari along the Rufiji River to see hippos and crocodiles up close. Dinner and overnight at a luxury lodge or tented camp within the reserve.
Day 2: Morning Game Drive → Fly Back to Zanzibar
Wake up early for a morning game drive or a walking safari for a more immersive wildlife experience. After breakfast, transfer to the airstrip for your flight back to Zanzibar, arriving by afternoon.
Accommodation Options – Midrange to Luxury
Choose from Budget Camping, Midrange lodges, tented camps, or high-end luxury stays — all offering comfort, great food, and spectacular views.
Wildlife Highlights
Spot elephants, lions, zebras, giraffes, and possibly rhinos. Each park has its own signature species and landscapes.
2 Days Tanzania Safari Tour Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe to book a 2-day safari tour in Tanzania?
-
“All of our Tanzanian safari tours are considered very safe. There is almost no crime in any of the Tanzania’s parks and reserves. However, like anywhere else on earth, cities tend to be crime hot spots especially during the night times. Most of our safari tours start in Arusha or Zanzibar.
-
Many safari goers walk around Arusha or Zanzibar city without any problems, but we suggest you follow some safety precautions. In Tanzania, Dar es Salaam has a bad reputation for crime so we advise you be more careful here. Exploring the city unguided is not recommended.
Is a 2-day Tanzania safari worth it?
-
Whatever time you have, it’s always worth getting out on a Tanzania safari. Even though a proper safari should at least take you out into the bush for a few nights, sometimes a quick short two-day Tanzania safari is all you may have time to do. You might be traveling on business to the biggest city of Dar es Salaam and looking for the best way to spend a free weekend just to spice up your Tanzania stay.
-
Or perhaps you have booked a beach holiday in Zanzibar island and you’d like to combine a small last-minute safari adventure with a 2-day trip to Tanzania's mainland. Or maybe a 2-day safari tour is all the budget allows you. It may surprise you how much you can experience and take in on an overnight safari tour. This 2-day trip will inspire you to do a longer safari and include other parks next time.
How much will this two day safari cost?
-
There is a huge range of prices and costs for a 2-day safari in Tanzania. The cheapest and most affordable 2-day budget camping tours in Tanzania start at around US$200 when two people share. Private tours in Tanzania are usually a bit more pricey than group shared tours where a vehicle might be shared by six to eight people maximum.
-
-
Mid-range private safari tours, where you stay in no-frills lodges, start at around US$390 for two people, but luxury Tanzania safaris start at around US$700 per person. Fly-in safari from Zanzibar or Dar es Salaam packages start at around US$650 per person for an overnight trip.
Is it possible to see the Big Five in two days?
-
Tanzania offers some of the most remarkable wildlife experiences, and a 4- to 5-day safari around the Northern Circuit significantly boosts your chances of spotting the Big Five. However, achieving this on a shorter 2-day safari can be more challenging. Black rhinos, for example, are rare across most Tanzanian parks and reserves, but the Ngorongoro Crater remains the only reliable spot to see them in their natural habitat. The other members of the Big Five are also commonly seen here, though spotting a leopard often requires a bit of luck.
-
During the Dry Season, Tarangire National Park stands out for its impressive elephant herds, and buffalo are frequently sighted as well. Big cat encounters in this park, however, can be unpredictable. Lake Manyara National Park offers diverse wildlife viewing, including the unique chance to spot tree-climbing lions.
-
While Arusha National Park is not a traditional Big Five safari destination, it boasts a variety of animals, including the striking black-and-white colobus monkeys. Buffalo sightings are possible, but other Big Five members are rare. For those exploring Mikumi National Park, three of the Big Five are commonly seen, though leopards remain elusive.
-
In Saadani National Park, wildlife densities are lower, but you might still encounter elephants, giraffes, and a variety of antelope species. A standout experience here is the scenic boat safari along the mangrove-lined Wami River, offering a unique perspective on Tanzania’s natural beauty.
Is a 2-day Tanzania trip too short?
-
A 2-day safari in Tanzania is very short, but whether it is too short depends on your expectations. If you have the option, we recommend adding a few extra 1 or 2 days. Two two-day tours will allow you to get out there and get a feel for what Tanzania safari is all about.
-
Hopefully, this 2 day safari in Tanzania will inspire you to return someday with more time on your hands.
Which parks are best for a 2-day safari in Tanzania?
-
The best choices depend on your starting point:
-
From Arusha or Zanzibar: Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire, or Lake Manyara.
-
From Dar es Salaam: Mikumi National Park.
-
Fly-in safari: Serengeti National Park for high-end travelers.
Each offers excellent game viewing and short driving times for a 2-day schedule.
How much does a 2-day Tanzania safari cost?
-
Prices vary depending on park, accommodation, and transport type:
-
By road (midrange): from $490–$650 per person.
-
Fly-in safaris: from $748–$1,400 per person.
All packages typically include meals, park fees, accommodation, and guide services.
Can I see the Big Five on a 2-day safari?
-
Yes — if you visit Ngorongoro Crater or Serengeti, there’s a good chance to spot lions, elephants, buffalo, and sometimes rhinos or leopards. Your guide will focus on maximizing your sightings during each game drive.
When is the best time of year for a 2-day safari?
-
The dry season (June–October) is best for wildlife visibility as animals gather near water sources. However, the green season (November–March) offers lush landscapes, fewer crowds, and great birdwatching — often at lower prices.
Can I combine two short safaris into a longer trip?
-
Yes — you can combine two different 2-day safaris (e.g., Tarangire + Ngorongoro and Serengeti + Manyara) to create a custom 4-day circuit safari. Many travelers do this to explore more parks without committing to a full week.
Are 2-day safaris private or group tours?
-
Both options exist. Private safaris offer flexibility and comfort, while group safaris are more budget-friendly and social. We will let you know which options are available on your chosen date.
Add-On Activities for Your 2-Day Tanzania Safari
Even on a short two-day safari, you can add extra experiences that make your adventure truly unforgettable. These optional add-ons are perfect for enhancing your safari with cultural, scenic, or luxury experiences before or after your wildlife tour.
Hot Air Balloon Safari
Float silently above the savannah as the sun rises over the Serengeti or Tarangire. Watch elephants, giraffes, and herds of wildebeest from the air.
Best for: Romantic trips, photographers, and luxury travelers.
Extra time required: Early morning (adds about 2–3 hours).
Bush Lunch or Sundowner Experience
Enjoy a private bush lunch or sundowner drink set in the wild — surrounded by nature’s sights and sounds. It’s the perfect way to relax after your game drive and capture stunning photos as the sun dips below the horizon.
Best for: Couples, honeymooners, and private safaris.
Cultural Experience: A Visit to Maasai Village
Learn about Tanzania’s famous Maasai tribe by visiting a local village near Ngorongoro or Tarangire. Meet villagers, see traditional dances, and gain insight into their nomadic lifestyle and customs.
Best for: Travelers interested in local culture and photography.
Mto wa Mbu Cycling Tour
Explore vibrant local life on a guided cycling trip through banana farms, villages, and the Lake Manyara area, with a stop for a traditional local lunch.
Materuni Waterfalls & Coffee Tour (Near Moshi or Arusha)
Add this before or after your safari to experience Tanzania’s lush side. Hike to the scenic Materuni Waterfalls, then enjoy a guided tour on how local coffee is grown, roasted, and brewed — with a fresh cup at the end!
Best for: Travelers returning to Zanzibar or flying out from Kilimanjaro Airport.
Located near Arusha, Serval Wildlife Sanctuary offers a close-up experience with rescued and protected animals in a safe environment.
Enjoy a relaxed afternoon walk, interact with gentle wildlife, and learn about conservation.
Best for: Families and those who love animal encounters.
