Book a 2-Day Serengeti & Ngorongoro Safari From Zanzibar
If you are in Zanzibar and searching for the best short safari experience, the 2-day Serengeti & Ngorongoro Crater safari from Zanzibar is the most powerful way to experience Tanzania’s legendary wildlife in the shortest possible time.
This safari is designed for travelers who:
-
Have limited time in Zanzibar
-
Want to see real African wildlife, not a zoo-style park
-
Prefer a fly-in safari with no long road transfers
-
Want to visit both Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater in one trip
Thanks to well-coordinated domestic flights and expert logistics, a 2-day Serengeti & Ngorongoro Crater safari from Zanzibar is not only possible — it is one of the most popular fly-in safari options for beach holiday travelers.
This page explains exactly how it works, what you will see, costs, itinerary, inclusions, and whether it is worth it, so you can book with confidence.
Is a 2-Day Serengeti & Ngorongoro Crater Safari from Zanzibar Really Possible?
Yes — a 2-day Serengeti & Ngorongoro Crater safari from Zanzibar is absolutely possible when done as a fly-in safari.
The key is flying, not driving.
Instead of spending 10–12 hours on the road, you:
-
Fly from Zanzibar to Serengeti (via Arusha)
-
Land directly inside Serengeti National Park
-
Enjoy a full game drive on Day 1
-
Visit Ngorongoro Crater on Day 2
-
Fly back to Zanzibar the same day
This is why the 2-day Serengeti & Ngorongoro Crater safari from Zanzibar works so well for travelers staying on the island.
How the 2-Day Serengeti & Ngorongoro Crater Safari from Zanzibar Works
Day 1 Logistics: Zanzibar to Serengeti
-
Early morning hotel pickup in Zanzibar
-
Flight from Zanzibar to Arusha
-
Connecting flight to Serengeti National Park (Seronera area)
-
Land inside the park
-
Immediate game drive
Day 2 Logistics: Ngorongoro Crater & Return to Zanzibar
-
Early breakfast
-
Drive to Ngorongoro Conservation Area
-
Descend into Ngorongoro Crater
-
Full crater game drive
-
Afternoon flight back to Zanzibar
This smooth flow is why the 2-day Serengeti & Ngorongoro Crater safari from Zanzibar is one of the most efficient safaris in Tanzania.
Route Overview
Zanzibar To Serengeti 🇹🇿
-
Start: Zanzibar (Day 1)
-
Day 1: Serengeti NP
-
Day 2: Ngorongoro Crater to Zanzibar (Day 2)
2 Day Safari From Zanzibar to Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater Itinerary
Below is our most recommended 2 day Serengeti & Ngorongoro safari for travellers based in Zanzibar Island.
Day 1: Fly From Zanzibar → Serengeti National Park
Your 2-day Serengeti & Ngorongoro Crater safari from Zanzibar begins early in the morning.
After a short flight sequence, you land directly in Central Serengeti (Seronera) — the wildlife heart of the park.
What to expect:
-
Extensive game drive across open plains
-
High chances of seeing:
-
Lions
-
Elephants
-
Giraffes
-
Zebras
-
Wildebeest
-
Leopards (often spotted in trees)
-
-
Picnic lunch in the bush
Seronera offers year-round wildlife, making it perfect for a short safari.
Overnight at Mbuni Tented Lodge
Day 2: Ngorongoro Crater safari→ Zanzibar
Early breakfast in the Serengeti, then drive toward the Ngorongoro Conservation Area.
You descend 600 meters into the Ngorongoro Crater, often called Africa’s Eden.
What makes Ngorongoro special:
-
One of the best places to see the Big Five
-
High probability of black rhino sightings
-
Lions, buffalo, elephants, hippos in a compact area
-
Stunning crater landscapes
After the game drive and lunch, you transfer to the airstrip and fly back to Zanzibar, completing your 2-day Serengeti & Ngorongoro Crater safari from Zanzibar.
Flights from Zanzibar to Serengeti: Routes, Options & How to Get There
One of the most common questions travelers ask before booking a 2-day Serengeti & Ngorongoro Crater safari from Zanzibar is simple:
How do you actually get from Zanzibar to Serengeti National Park?
The answer is straightforward and efficient when done correctly — by domestic flights, not by road.
Are There Direct Flights from Zanzibar to Serengeti?
There are no nonstop direct flights from Zanzibar to Serengeti National Park.
However, daily scheduled safari flights connect Zanzibar to Serengeti with one short stop, making the journey fast and comfortable.
These routes are specifically designed for safari travelers and are the only practical way to reach Serengeti from Zanzibar within a short time frame.
Main Flight Routes from Zanzibar to Serengeti
Zanzibar → Arusha → Serengeti (Most Common Route)
This is the most reliable and frequently used route for safaris.
How it works:
-
Early morning flight from Zanzibar to Arusha
-
Short connection in Arusha
-
Light aircraft flight to Serengeti National Park
-
Land directly at a Serengeti airstrip (usually Seronera)
Why this route works best:
-
Daily departures
-
Excellent coordination with safari schedules
-
Direct access to wildlife areas
-
No long road transfers
This route is ideal for travelers booking a 2-day Serengeti safari from Zanzibar.
Zanzibar → Serengeti via Northern Circuit Connections (Seasonal)
On certain days and seasons, flights may operate as multi-stop safari routes, touching down at:
-
Arusha
-
Lake Manyara
-
Tarangire
before continuing to Serengeti.
These are still scheduled safari flights, not commercial airlines, and are commonly used in fly-in safaris.
Serengeti Airstrips You Will Land At
Flights from Zanzibar to Serengeti typically land at one of these airstrips:
-
Seronera Airstrip (Central Serengeti) – most common
-
Kogatende Airstrip (Northern Serengeti – seasonal)
-
Ndutu Airstrip (Southern Serengeti – seasonal)
For short safaris, Seronera Airstrip is preferred because:
-
It has year-round wildlife
-
It minimizes transfer time
-
Game drives start immediately upon landing
Total Travel Time from Zanzibar to Serengeti
When using scheduled safari flights:
-
Zanzibar → Arusha: ~1 hour
-
Arusha → Serengeti: ~1.5–2 hours
-
Total travel time: approximately half a day
This is why a 2-day Serengeti safari from Zanzibar is realistic and efficient.
Why Flying Is Essential (Not Driving)
Driving from Zanzibar to Serengeti would require:
-
Ferry to Dar es Salaam
-
10–12+ hours of road travel
-
Overnight stops
This is not practical for short safaris.
Flying allows you to:
-
Maximize game-drive time
-
Avoid fatigue
-
Start safari the same day
-
Enjoy aerial views of Tanzania’s landscapes
-
Important Things to Know About Zanzibar–Serengeti Flights
-
Flights use small aircraft
-
Luggage limits apply (soft bags required)
-
Early morning departures are common
-
Seats are limited and sell out quickly
-
Flight schedules depend on season and demand
Because of this, advance booking is strongly recommended, especially during peak season.
How Flights Are Included in Your Safari Package
When you book a 2-day Serengeti & Ngorongoro Crater safari from Zanzibar, flights are:
-
Fully arranged by your safari operator
-
Timed to match game drives
-
Included in the total safari cost
-
Confirmed before final payment
You do not need to book flights separa
Airlines Used For Zanzibar To Serengeti Flights
We work with reliable safari airlines for Serengeti & Ngorongoro crater safaris from Zanzibar.
Best Time to Do a 2-Day Serengeti & Ngorongoro Crater Safari from Zanzibar
Dry Season (June – October)
-
Best wildlife viewing
-
Higher demand
-
Peak season
Green Season (November – May)
-
Lush landscapes
-
Fewer crowds
-
Excellent value
-
Great wildlife year-round
This safari works all year, thanks to the permanent wildlife in Seronera and Ngorongoro.
What Wildlife Can You See in a 2-Day Serengeti & Ngorongoro Crater Safari from Zanzibar?
Despite the short duration, wildlife sightings are excellent.
Common sightings include:
-
Lions (very high chance)
-
Elephants
-
Buffalo
-
Giraffes
-
Zebras
-
Wildebeest
-
Hippos
-
Hyenas
Possible sightings:
-
Leopard (Serengeti)
-
Cheetah (Serengeti)
-
Black rhino (Ngorongoro)
The pairing of Serengeti + Ngorongoro is what makes this safari so powerful in just 2 days.
Who Is This 2-Day Serengeti & Ngorongoro Crater Safari from Zanzibar Best For?
This safari is ideal for:
-
Travelers staying in Zanzibar with limited time
-
Honeymooners wanting a luxury fly-in safari
-
First-time safari travelers
-
Beach holiday visitors wanting a real safari experience
It may not be ideal for:
-
Ultra-budget travelers
-
Travelers who prefer very slow-paced safaris
-
Families with very young children (due to early flights)
Safari Accommodation (1 Night)
Accommodation for the 2-day Serengeti & Ngorongoro Crater safari from Zanzibar is selected for:
-
Comfort
-
Proximity to wildlife areas
-
Easy logistics
Options include:
-
Mid-range lodges
-
Luxury tented camps
-
Permanent safari lodges near Ngorongoro
All accommodations offer:
-
Private bathrooms
-
Comfortable beds
-
Excellent food
-
Secure environments
What Is Included in the 2-Day Serengeti & Ngorongoro Crater Safari from Zanzibar
-
Domestic flights (Zanzibar ↔ safari circuit)
-
Serengeti National Park fees
-
Ngorongoro Crater fees & service charge
-
Professional English-speaking safari guide
-
Private safari vehicle
-
Game drives as per itinerary
-
1 night accommodation
-
All meals during safari
-
Airport & airstrip transfers
What Is Not Included
-
International flights
-
Travel insurance
-
Personal expenses
-
Tips (optional)
Transparency builds trust — nothing hidden.
How Much Does a 2-Day Serengeti & Ngorongoro Crater Safari from Zanzibar Cost?
The cost of a 2-day Serengeti & Ngorongoro Crater safari from Zanzibar depends on:
-
Season
-
Accommodation level
-
Number of travelers
Main cost drivers:
-
Domestic flights
-
Ngorongoro Crater fees
-
Quality of accommodation
This safari is premium value, not budget — but it delivers maximum experience in minimum time.
Other Safaris You May Like
2 Days 1 Night Serengeti fly-in safari from Zanzibar
Best For: Family-friendly • Fly-in • Big 5 • Big Cats • Great Migration
You Visit: Zanzibar → Serengeti → Hot Air Baloon → Fly back to Zanzibar
2 Days 1 Nights Tarangire & Ngorongoro safari from Zanzibar
Best For: Family-friendly • Fly-in • Big 5 • Big Cats • Great Migration
You Visit: Zanzibar → Tarangire → Ngorongoro → Manyara → Zanzibar
2 Days 1 Night Tarangire & Serval wildlife safari from Zanzibar
Best For: Family-friendly • Fly-in • Big 5 • Big Cats • Close animal encounter
You Visit: Zanzibar → Tarangire → Serval sanctuary → Zanzibar
Frequently Asked Questions – 2-Day Serengeti & Ngorongoro Crater Safari from Zanzibar
Is a 2-day Serengeti & Ngorongoro Crater safari from Zanzibar really possible?
-
Yes. A 2-day Serengeti & Ngorongoro Crater safari from Zanzibar is possible when done as a fly-in safari, allowing you to reach Serengeti quickly, enjoy game drives on day one, visit Ngorongoro Crater on day two, and return to Zanzibar the same day.
How do you get from Zanzibar to Serengeti for a 2-day safari?
-
You fly from Zanzibar to Arusha, then connect on a light aircraft to Serengeti National Park, avoiding long road transfers and making a short safari itinerary realistic.
Are there direct flights from Zanzibar to Serengeti?
-
There are no nonstop direct flights, but daily scheduled safari flights operate via Arusha and land directly inside Serengeti National Park.
Which Serengeti area is visited on a 2-day safari from Zanzibar?
-
Most 2-day safaris visit Central Serengeti (Seronera), which offers year-round wildlife, excellent predator sightings, and minimal transfer time.
Is Ngorongoro Crater included in the 2-day safari from Zanzibar?
-
Yes. The itinerary includes a full Ngorongoro Crater game drive on day two, combining two of Tanzania’s top wildlife destinations in one short safari.
Is the 2-day Serengeti & Ngorongoro safari rushed?
-
The safari is fast-paced but well planned, with flights minimizing travel time so you can enjoy meaningful game drives without unnecessary rushing.
What wildlife can I expect to see in just 2 days?
-
Expect to see lions, elephants, buffalo, giraffes, zebras, wildebeest, hippos, hyenas, and potentially black rhinos in Ngorongoro Crater.
Is this safari suitable for first-time safari travelers?
-
Yes. The Serengeti and Ngorongoro combination offers classic wildlife experiences, making it ideal for first-time safari visitors with limited time.
Who is this 2-day safari from Zanzibar best for?
-
It’s best for Zanzibar beach holiday travelers, honeymooners, couples, and anyone seeking a premium safari experience in a short time.
Is this safari suitable for families with children?
-
It can be suitable for families with older children, but early flights and a fast pace may not be ideal for very young children.
How much does a 2-day Serengeti & Ngorongoro safari from Zanzibar cost?
-
Costs vary by season, accommodation level, and group size, with flights and Ngorongoro Crater fees being the main cost factors.
What is included in the 2-day Serengeti & Ngorongoro safari from Zanzibar?
-
The safari usually includes domestic flights, park fees, crater fees, game drives, a professional guide, a private safari vehicle, accommodation, meals, and transfers.
What is not included in the safari package?
-
International flights, travel insurance, personal expenses, and optional tips are typically not included.
Where do you stay during the 2-day safari?
-
You stay one night at a selected lodge or tented camp near Ngorongoro, chosen for comfort, safety, and convenient access.
Is one night enough for Serengeti and Ngorongoro?
-
One night is enough for a high-impact safari when time is limited, offering meaningful wildlife experiences despite the short duration.
What is the best time of year for this safari from Zanzibar?
-
The safari operates year-round, with June to October offering peak wildlife viewing and November to May providing greener landscapes and fewer crowds.
Can this 2-day safari be customized?
-
Yes. Accommodation level, travel dates, and private or shared options can often be customized based on availability.
How early do flights depart from Zanzibar for the safari?
-
Flights usually depart early in the morning to maximize game-drive time and ensure the itinerary runs smoothly.
Are luggage limits applied on flights from Zanzibar to Serengeti?
-
Yes. Light aircraft flights have strict luggage limits and require soft bags, with details confirmed before travel.
Is Ngorongoro Crater better than Serengeti for a short safari?
-
They complement each other, with Serengeti offering open plains and predators and Ngorongoro providing dense wildlife in a compact area.
Can I see the Big Five on this 2-day safari?
-
Yes. There is a strong chance to see lions, elephants, buffalo, leopards, and potentially rhinos in Ngorongoro Crater.
Is this safari better than a 1-day safari from Zanzibar?
-
Yes. A 2-day safari allows visits to two iconic parks, longer game drives, and a more complete safari experience.
How far in advance should I book the 2-day safari?
-
Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak season, due to limited flight seats and crater permits.
Is this safari worth the price for such a short time?
-
Yes. It delivers exceptional value by combining two world-class safari destinations with minimal travel time from Zanzibar.
How do I book a 2-day Serengeti & Ngorongoro safari from Zanzibar?
-
The best way is to contact a Tanzania safari specialist who can confirm flights, availability, pricing, and secure your booking quickly.
Is the 2-day Serengeti & Ngorongoro Crater safari from Zanzibar suitable for families with children?
-
Yes. This safari is suitable for families with older children, especially those already holidaying in Zanzibar. The fly-in format minimizes long road travel, lodges are family-friendly, and wildlife viewing is rewarding even on a short itinerary. Early flights and a fast pace mean it’s best for children who are comfortable with structured travel days.
Can wheelchair users do a 2-day Serengeti & Ngorongoro safari from Zanzibar?
-
Yes, with proper planning. Wheelchair accessible safaris from Zanzibar are possible using fly-in flights, private safari vehicles, and carefully selected lodges. Game viewing is done from the vehicle, and assistance is provided throughout. Accessibility suitability depends on individual mobility needs and must be arranged in advance.
Are German-speaking safari guides available for this 2-day safari from Zanzibar?
-
Yes. German-speaking safari guides can be arranged on request for the 2-day Serengeti & Ngorongoro Crater safari from Zanzibar, subject to availability. This option is popular with travelers from Germany, Austria, and Switzerland who prefer guided explanations in their native language.
Can I book this safari with Spanish, Italian, or French-speaking guides?
-
Yes. Spanish, Italian, and French-speaking safari guides are available on request for this itinerary. Availability depends on travel dates and should be confirmed in advance. Multilingual guiding enhances understanding of wildlife, culture, and conservation, especially for first-time safari travelers.