2 Day Tarangire safari From Zanzibar
A 2-day one-night Tarangire safari from Zanzibar is one of the most exclusive short safaris in Tanzania. Designed for travelers already enjoying a Zanzibar beach holiday, this fly-in itinerary focuses entirely on Tarangire National Park, allowing you to overnight inside or right next to the park, experience night game drives, and choose an immersive walking safari or optional hot air balloon before flying back to Zanzibar.
Unlike standard short safaris that rush through multiple parks, this experience prioritizes depth over distance. You spend more time inside one exceptional ecosystem, witness wildlife activity after dark, and enjoy rare safari activities that are not available on most itineraries—all while starting and ending in Zanzibar.
Why Choose a 2-Day One-Night Tarangire Safari From Zanzibar?
Not all short safaris are equal. This itinerary is crafted for travelers who want something truly different from a classic “day-only” safari.
Designed for Zanzibar Beach Holiday Travelers
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Seamless extension to a Zanzibar stay
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No overnight stops in Arusha or long road transfers
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Morning departure and afternoon return flights
A Deeper Safari Experience in Just Two Days
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Overnight stay in the Tarangire ecosystem
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Night game drives to observe nocturnal wildlife
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Optional walking safari or balloon flight for immersive exploration.
Fly-In Travel Means More Safari, Less Transit
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Short domestic flights replace 8–10 hour drives
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Immediate access to the park
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Relaxed pacing ideal for photography and wildlife observation.
This safari is ideal for couples, honeymooners, photographers, and travelers seeking a premium, experience-led safari rather than a checklist tour.
Who Is This Safari Best Suited For?
This 2-day Tarangire safari from Zanzibar is perfect for:
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Travelers already staying in Zanzibar
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Couples and honeymooners
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Adventure-minded travelers
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Safari photographers
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Repeat safari guests seeking something unique
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Travelers who prefer fly-in safaris.
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Travellers who are keen with Tarangire National Park
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Travellers who wants a night game drive thrill
It is also suitable for families, seniors, and travelers with limited mobility when planned in advance, as pacing and accommodations can be adapted.
How the Fly-In Tarangire Safari From Zanzibar Works
This itinerary is designed to be smooth, efficient, and stress-free.
You will:
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Fly from Zanzibar to northern Tanzania in the morning
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Transfer directly to Tarangire National Park
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Enjoy daytime and night game drives
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Overnight inside or near the park
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Participate in a walking safari or balloon flight on Day 2
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Fly back to Zanzibar in the afternoon
All logistics—flights, transfers, park permits, guiding, and accommodation—are arranged in advance so you can focus entirely on the experience.
A 2-day one-night Tarangire safari from Zanzibar allows travelers to fly directly into Tarangire National Park, enjoy day and night game drives, overnight near the park, and return to Zanzibar without long road travel.
Route Overview
Zanzibar To Tarangire 🇹🇿
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Start: Zanzibar (Day 1)
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Day 1: Tarangire + Night game drive
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Day 2: Walking safari, hot air balloon then Zanzibar (Day 2)
2-Day One-Night Tarangire Safari From Zanzibar – Detailed Itinerary
This itinerary is carefully structured to maximize wildlife viewing while keeping travel time minimal.
Day 1 – Fly From Zanzibar to Tarangire National Park & Night Game Drive
Your safari begins early in the morning with a domestic flight from Zanzibar to northern Tanzania. Upon arrival, you are met by your private safari guide and transferred directly into Tarangire National Park.
Tarangire is renowned for:
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Large elephant herds
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Ancient baobab trees
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Open savannahs and riverine habitats
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A quieter, more intimate safari atmosphere
You enjoy a daytime game drive, searching for elephants, giraffes, zebras, wildebeest, buffalo, and predators such as lions and leopards. As the sun sets, you head to your lodge or camp located inside or adjacent to the park.
After dinner, you embark on a night game drive, a rare and thrilling experience. Using spotlights and expert guiding, you may encounter nocturnal species such as genets, bush babies, porcupines, civets, and active predators that are rarely seen during the day.
Overnight: Safari lodge or tented camp in the Tarangire area
Experience highlight: Wildlife activity after dark in a natural setting
Accommodation | Day 1
Day 2 – Walking Safari or Hot Air Balloon & Fly Back to Zanzibar
You begin the day early with one of Tarangire’s most immersive activities:
Option 1: Walking Safari
Accompanied by an armed ranger and professional guide, you explore the bush on foot. This experience focuses on tracks, plants, insects, and the finer details of the ecosystem, offering a deeper understanding of the landscape.
Option 2: Hot Air Balloon Safari (Optional)
For travelers seeking a truly unforgettable experience, a hot air balloon flight offers a silent aerial perspective over Tarangire’s plains at sunrise. This activity is seasonal and subject to availability.
After breakfast, you enjoy a final short game drive before transferring to the nearby airstrip. You then take a return flight to Zanzibar, arriving in the afternoon and continuing your beach holiday.
Experience highlight: Close-to-nature safari activities followed by a smooth return to Zanzibar
Tarangire National Park – Elephants, Baobabs & Night Safaris
Tarangire National Park – Elephants, Baobabs & Night Safaris
Tarangire National Park is one of Tanzania’s most distinctive and rewarding safari destinations, particularly for travelers seeking overnight experiences, night game drives, and immersive activities. Located in northern Tanzania, Tarangire offers a quieter, more intimate safari atmosphere compared to larger parks, making it ideal for short but high-quality fly-in safaris from Zanzibar.
Iconic Elephant Population
Tarangire is world-famous for its large elephant concentrations, especially during the dry season.
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Family herds often gather around the Tarangire River
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Excellent opportunities to observe elephant behavior up close
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One of the best parks in Tanzania for elephant photography
Ancient Baobab Landscapes
The park’s landscape is defined by giant baobab trees, some of which are hundreds of years old.
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Unique, dramatic scenery unlike any other park
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Baobabs provide shelter for wildlife and birds
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A key visual identity of Tarangire National Park
The Tarangire River Ecosystem
The Tarangire River is the lifeline of the park.
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Attracts wildlife year-round, especially in the dry season
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Excellent sightings of elephants, buffalo, zebra, wildebeest, and antelope
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Predators frequently patrol riverbanks
Exceptional Wildlife Diversity
Beyond elephants, Tarangire supports a rich variety of wildlife:
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Lions, leopards, and cheetahs
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Large buffalo herds
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Giraffes, zebras, wildebeest, and eland
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Rare species such as fringe-eared oryx and gerenuk
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Over 500 bird species, making it a paradise for birdwatchers.
Night Game Drives (Special Experience)
Tarangire is one of the few safari areas in northern Tanzania where night game drives are possible through select lodges and concessions.
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Observe nocturnal animals rarely seen during the day
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Possible sightings include genets, civets, bush babies, porcupines, and active predators
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A completely different safari atmosphere after dark
Night drives are a major reason Tarangire is ideal for one-night safaris from Zanzibar.
Walking Safaris
Guided walking safaris offer a deeper connection to the landscape.
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Led by armed rangers and professional guides
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Focus on tracks, plants, insects, and smaller wildlife
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Learn how to read the bush and understand animal behavior
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Safe, slow-paced, and highly educational
Walking safaris are especially appealing to travelers who want a hands-on safari experience rather than only vehicle-based game drives.
Hot Air Balloon Safaris (Seasonal & Limited)
In select seasons and locations, hot air balloon safaris may be available.
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Sunrise flights over Tarangire’s plains and river systems
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Silent, aerial views of wildlife and landscapes
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Unique perspective rarely experienced by most travelers
This activity is optional, seasonal, and subject to availability but adds a once-in-a-lifetime element to a short safari.
Fewer Crowds & Relaxed Safari Atmosphere
Compared to Serengeti and Ngorongoro, Tarangire is generally:
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Less crowded
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More relaxed
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Better for unhurried game drives
This makes it ideal for travelers who value quality sightings over quantity of parks.
Exceptional Birdlife for Bird Lovers
Tarangire National Park is one of Tanzania’s most rewarding parks for birdwatching, with over 500 recorded bird species supported by its diverse habitats of riverine woodland, savannah, swamps, and seasonal wetlands.
Bird enthusiasts can expect:
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Large raptors such as martial eagles, bateleurs, tawny eagles, and secretary birds
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Colorful residents including yellow-collared lovebirds, superb starlings, lilac-breasted rollers, and bee-eaters
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Water-associated species like saddle-billed storks, African spoonbills, herons, and egrets along the Tarangire River
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Seasonal migratory birds from Europe and Asia, especially between November and April
Tarangire’s quieter atmosphere and slower game-drive pace make it ideal for unhurried bird observation and photography, particularly during early mornings and late afternoons. For bird lovers combining a Zanzibar holiday with a short safari, Tarangire offers one of the richest birding experiences available on a fly-in itinerary.
Ideal Park for Overnight Safaris
Tarangire is particularly well-suited for overnight stays because:
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Wildlife activity continues after sunset
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Early morning access improves sightings
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Night and walking safaris are permitted through select lodges
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The ecosystem rewards slower exploration
Other Safaris From Zanzibar You May Like
If you have more time in Tanzania or are looking for a different safari style, there are several excellent safari options that also start and end in Zanzibar. These itineraries offer alternative parks, longer stays, or different wildlife experiences.
2 Days 1 Night Tarangire & Ngorongoro safari from Zanzibar
Best For: Family-friendly • Fly-in • Big 4 • Adventure
You Visit: Zanzibar → Tarangire → Hot Air Baloon, walking safari→ Zanzibar
6 Days 5 nights fly-in safari from Zanzibar
Best For: Family-friendly • Fly-in • Big 5 • Big Cats • Close animal encounter
You Visit: Zanzibar → Tarangire → Serengeti →Ngorongoro → Zanzibar
What’s Included in the 2-Day Tarangire Safari From Zanzibar
Included
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Domestic flights (Zanzibar ↔ northern Tanzania)
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All park and night safari fees
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Private safari vehicle and guide
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Overnight accommodation and meals
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Day and night game drives
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Walking safari (or balloon coordination if selected)
Not Included
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International flights
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Travel insurance
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Tips and personal expenses
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Hot air balloon fee (if selected)
There are no hidden costs—everything essential to the safari is clearly outlined.
How Much Does a 2-Day Tarangire Safari From Zanzibar Cost?
The price of this safari depends on:
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Travel season
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Accommodation category
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Number of travelers
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Optional activities such as a balloon safari
Because this is a specialized experience with overnight stays and night drives, it is positioned as a premium short safari offering excellent value for travelers seeking something unique.
A personalized quote ensures the itinerary matches your expectations.
Safety, Comfort & Professional Guiding
Your safari is operated by experienced local professionals who understand both Zanzibar logistics and Tarangire’s special activity regulations.
You benefit from:
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Licensed, knowledgeable safari guides
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Well-maintained 4×4 vehicles
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Professional coordination of night and walking safaris
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Clear communication before and during the trip
Private guiding ensures flexibility, comfort, and a personalized experience throughout the safari.
Best Time to Do a One-Night Tarangire Safari From Zanzibar
This safari operates year-round, with different seasonal highlights.
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June to October: Dry season, excellent wildlife visibility
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January to March: Green landscapes and fewer crowds
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April and May: Lush scenery and quieter parks
Wildlife viewing in Tarangire remains strong throughout the year, particularly around the river.
Frequently Asked Questions – 2-Day Tarangire Safari From Zanzibar
Is this safari suitable for honeymooners?
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Yes, this safari is ideal for honeymooners seeking a romantic and exclusive experience. Overnight stays, night game drives, and optional hot air balloon safaris create unforgettable moments. Privacy and comfort are prioritized throughout the trip.
Is this safari good for bird lovers?
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Absolutely. Tarangire National Park is one of Tanzania’s top birding destinations with over 500 species. Diverse habitats attract raptors, colorful woodland birds, and migratory species, making it excellent for bird photography and observation.
Is the safari suitable for wildlife photographers?
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Yes, Tarangire offers excellent light, open landscapes, and relaxed pacing for photography. Night game drives provide rare opportunities to photograph nocturnal animals. Guides understand positioning and timing for optimal shots.
Can families with children join this safari?
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Yes, families are welcome, and the itinerary can be adjusted to suit children. Private vehicles allow flexible game drive durations and rest breaks. Lodges suitable for families can be arranged in advance.
Is this safari suitable for older travelers or seniors?
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Yes, this itinerary is well-suited for older travelers because it avoids long road journeys. Fly-in flights and comfortable lodges reduce physical strain. Activities can be paced according to individual comfort.
Can travelers with limited mobility or wheelchair users join?
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Yes, with advance notice, this safari can be adapted for travelers with limited mobility. Vehicles, lodges, and activities can be selected to improve accessibility. Walking safaris can be replaced with vehicle-based experiences if needed.
Is this safari safe for pregnant travelers?
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Pregnant travelers may join depending on their stage of pregnancy and medical advice. Fly-in travel reduces fatigue, and game drives are generally smooth. We always recommend consulting a healthcare provider before booking.
How physically demanding is this safari?
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This safari is not physically demanding and requires no special fitness level. Most wildlife viewing is done from a vehicle, with optional walking activities available. Participation in optional activities is always flexible.
Are night game drives safe in Tarangire?
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Yes, night game drives are conducted under strict park regulations by trained guides. Vehicles are equipped for visibility and safety. These drives offer a unique and secure way to observe nocturnal wildlife.
Is the hot air balloon safari guaranteed?
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Hot air balloon safaris are optional and subject to weather and seasonal availability. Confirmation is provided in advance where possible. If unavailable, alternative safari activities are offered.
Will I see elephants on this safari?
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Yes, Tarangire is one of the best parks in Tanzania for elephants. Large family herds are commonly seen around the Tarangire River and open plains. Sightings are frequent year-round.
Does the safari really start and end in Zanzibar?
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Yes, this safari is designed to start and end in Zanzibar using domestic flights. You do not need to overnight in Arusha or mainland towns. This makes it ideal for Zanzibar-based travelers.
What languages do the safari guides speak?
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English-speaking guides are standard, and guides speaking German, French, Spanish, or Italian can be arranged on request. Language preferences should be communicated in advance. This ensures clear communication and comfort.
Can this safari be customized?
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Yes, this safari is fully customizable. Accommodation level, activities, and pacing can be adjusted to suit your interests. Every itinerary is tailored rather than fixed.
Why choose this Tarangire safari over a classic 2-day safari?
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This safari focuses on depth rather than distance, offering overnight stays, night game drives, and immersive activities. It’s ideal for travelers seeking a more exclusive and experiential safari. Classic itineraries focus more on multiple parks in limited time.
Can this 2-day Tarangire safari from Zanzibar be combined with other nearby parks like Manyara or Ngorongoro?
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Yes, this itinerary can be extended to include nearby parks such as Lake Manyara National Park or the Ngorongoro Crater if you have additional time available. These parks are located close to Tarangire and are commonly added to longer fly-in safaris. Combining parks allows for greater wildlife diversity while keeping travel efficient.
Book Your 2-Day One-Night Tarangire Safari From Zanzibar
A 2-day one-night Tarangire safari from Zanzibar is the perfect choice for travelers seeking a deeper, more exclusive safari experience without leaving their beach holiday for long. With fly-in travel, night game drives, and immersive walking or balloon safaris, it offers a rare perspective on Tanzania’s wildlife.
👉 Request Your Personalized Tarangire Night Safari Plan
Travel with confidence, guided by local experts who know Tarangire inside out.