How to Plan Your 2 Days 1 Night Tarangire Ngorongoro Crater Tour in Arusha

If you’re planning a trip to Tanzania and want to experience the thrill of viewing African wildlife, a 2 Days 1 Night Tarangire Ngorongoro Crater safari is an excellent option. This short trip allows you to explore two destinations and enjoy a variety of experiences in a short amount of time.

Experience

During this safari, you’ll have the chance to view a wide range of wildlife in their natural habitats, including elephants, zebras, and lions. You’ll also have the opportunity to explore two unique destinations, Tarangire National Park and Ngorongoro Crater, and learn about their histories and ecosystems from knowledgeable local guides.

Highlights

The highlights of this safari include: – A full day of game viewing in Tarangire National Park with the chance to see elephants, baobab trees, and other unique wildlife. – An overnight stay at a lodge or campsite in Tarangire National Park. – A visit to Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Africa’s most impressive natural wonders. – The opportunity to see a wide variety of wildlife, including lions, leopards, and black rhinos.

Day 1: Tarangire National Park

After breakfast, your driver-guide will collect you from your accommodations in Arusha or Moshi and head to Tarangire National Park. The park is located about 120 km from Arusha, which takes approximately 3 hours of driving. Tarangire National Park is known for its large population of elephants, with herds of up to 300 individuals commonly seen during the dry season. Additionally, the park is home to many other species, including lions, leopards, cheetahs, zebras, wildebeest, giraffes, buffalos, and various antelopes. Tarangire also has a high density of baobab trees and a number of wetlands, which are a magnet for wildlife. As you venture through the park, you’ll stop for a picnic lunch and enjoy views over the Tarangire River. After lunch, you’ll continue your safari and have more opportunities to spot wildlife as you make your way to your lodge or campsite for dinner and an overnight stay.

Day 2: Ngorongoro Crater

After breakfast, you’ll leave your lodge or campsite and drive to Ngorongoro Conservation Area. The journey takes approximately 3 hours, during which you’ll pass through the town of Karatu and the village of Mto wa Mbu. Upon arrival at Ngorongoro, you’ll descend into the crater and spend your day exploring this remarkable area. Ngorongoro is a UNESCO World Heritage site and the largest unflooded and unbroken caldera in the world, with walls rising up to 600 meters. The crater is home to a diverse range of animals, including the “Big Five” (lions, leopards, elephants, buffalos, and black rhinos), as well as numerous other species such as hyenas, zebras, wildebeests, warthogs, and gazelles. In addition to game drives, you may also have the opportunity to visit a Maasai village and learn about the local culture and customs. After a day of exploring Ngorongoro Crater, you’ll return to Arusha, arriving in the late afternoon or early evening.

Booking Your Tour

If you’re interested in booking the 2 Days 1 Night Tarangire Ngorongoro Crater tour, you can do so online through GetYourGuide at book the tour here. This third-party company offers a variety of tours and experiences throughout Tanzania and can provide you with additional information about the itinerary, accommodations, and other details related to your safari.

Book Your Tour Now

Overall, the 2 Days 1 Night Tarangire Ngorongoro Crater tour is an excellent way to experience some of Tanzania’s most incredible natural and cultural attractions. With knowledgeable local guides, comfortable accommodations, and the chance to see a wide range of wildlife up close, this safari is sure to be an unforgettable experience for anyone who loves adventure, nature, and exploration.

Arusha City FAQs

Arusha is a city in Tanzania known for its diverse culture, wildlife, and outdoor adventure activities. Whether you’re planning a visit or already in the city, you may have some questions about what to do, where to go, or what to expect. This Arusha City FAQ guide provides answers to some of the most common questions that travelers ask.

1. What is the best time to visit Arusha?

The best time to visit Arusha is during the dry season, which runs from June to October. During this season, the weather is cool and the skies are clear, providing excellent visibility for wildlife viewing and outdoor activities. However, this is also the peak tourist season so expect higher prices and more crowded attractions. The wet season, from November to May can still be a great time to visit, with lower prices and fewer crowds, but expect afternoon thunderstorms and unusable roads in some parks.

2. What are the popular attractions in Arusha?

There are several popular attractions in Arusha, including:

i) Serengeti National Park:

famous for its annual wildebeest migration, Serengeti National Park is home to the Big Five and many other animals.

ii) Mount Kilimanjaro:

the highest peak in Africa, with three main climbing routes.

iii) Tarangire National Park:

home to large elephant herds and baobab trees.

iv) Ngorongoro Conservation Area:

known for the Ngorongoro Crater, a collapsed volcano that is a habitat for several wildlife species.

v) Arusha National Park:

famous for its Mount Meru, the second-highest mountain in Tanzania.

3. How do I get around Arusha?

Arusha has several modes of transportation, including buses, taxis, and bike rentals. Buses and taxis are the most common and affordable methods of transportation. Taxis can be hailed from the street or booked in advance through your hotel or online platforms such as Uber. It’s also possible to rent a car, but be aware of the traffic and road conditions in the city.

4. What should I pack for Arusha?

When packing for Arusha, you should consider the climate and the activities you’ll be doing. Here are some essential items to pack:

• Lightweight clothing for the day, such as shorts and t-shirts
• Warm clothing for the evenings, as the temperature can drop dramatically
• Hiking boots or comfortable walking shoes
• Sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect from the sun’s strong rays
• Insect repellent to keep mosquitoes away
• A camera with extra batteries to capture the amazing wildlife sightings

5. Is it safe to travel to Arusha?

Arusha is generally considered safe for travelers. However, it’s always important to take precautions such as staying in well-lit areas at night, not displaying valuables, and being aware of your surroundings. It’s also recommended to hire a guide or join a group tour when visiting parks and wildlife areas.

6. What is the local currency in Arusha?

The official currency of Tanzania is the Tanzanian shilling (TZS). It’s recommended to exchange currency at banks or authorized forex bureaus. Credit cards are accepted in some hotels, restaurants, and tour operators, but don’t rely solely on them, Always carry some cash, USD is generally accepted but make sure to bring some small bills.

7. What are the local customs and etiquette in Arusha?

Tanzania is a diverse country with more than 120 tribes, each with its own traditions and customs. Here are some general customs and etiquette to keep in mind:

• Greet people with a handshake and a smile, and also when departing.
• Locals are friendly and helpful, so expect to engage in small talk, be polite and respectful.
• Dress conservatively, avoiding revealing clothes or torn items.
• Do not openly display affection. It is culturally not accepted.
• Ask for permission before taking photos of people or their possessions, most times you will be required to offer payment.

8. What are the local dishes in Arusha?

Tanzanian cuisine is heavily influenced by Indian, African, and European flavors. Among the most popular dishes in Arusha are:

• Ugali: a staple food made of maize flour that’s usually served with meat or vegetables.
• Nyama Choma: grilled meat, usually beef or goat, is very popular in Tanzania.
• Mchicha: A traditional vegetable-based dish made with green leafy vegetables, tomatoes, and spices
• Pilau: A fragrant rice dish cooked with spices and meat or vegetables.
• Chips Mayai: A combination of French fries and an omelet.

9. Where can I buy souvenirs in Arusha?

Arusha has plenty of gift shops, markets, and street vendors selling souvenirs such as Maasai jewelry, African fabrics, and wooden carvings. Among the markets to check are:

i) Tanzanite Experience:

a market for Tanzanite stones, unique to Tanzania

ii) Cultural Heritage Center:

A collection of galleries, shops, and museums displaying African art.

iii) Masai Market:

A traditional African market with a variety of handmade crafts and souvenirs.

10. What languages are spoken in Arusha?

Tanzania has over 129 ethnic groups that speak different languages, but English and Swahili are the official languages, with Swahili being the most commonly spoken language in Arusha.

Wrapping up

Arusha is a city full of adventure, wildlife, and cultural experiences. Whether you’re planning a visit or already in the city, this FAQ guide is a great starting point to answer some of the most common questions about Arusha. Remember that while traveling, it’s always important to be respectful of local customs and traditions and to take safety precautions.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Arusha

Arusha is a city located in Tanzania, East Africa. It is a hub for tourists who wish to climb Mount Kilimanjaro, visit the Serengeti, or explore the northern Tanzanian wildlife. Arusha is the city of safari and has many attractions that every tourist should see. Here’s a guide on how to spend your time as a tourist in Arusha.

1. Visit the National Parks and Reserves

Arusha is home to some of the famous national parks and reserves in Tanzania. The Serengeti National Park, Tarangire National Park, and Ngorongoro Conservation Area are well-known for their diverse wildlife and spectacular natural scenery. Each park offers a unique safari experience with a chance to see different animals in their natural habitats. You can spot lions, elephants, cheetah, giraffe, buffalo, and several species of birds.

2. Explore Arusha National Park

If you’re short on time, one of the best places to visit in Arusha is the national park of the same name. Arusha National Park is a hidden gem, and it offers breathtaking views of Mount Kilimanjaro, Mount Meru, and the Momela Lakes. It’s the only park in Tanzania where you can trek to see both giant elephants and flamingos in the same day. Visitors can take a canoe ride in one of the lakes or hike on the legendary Mt. Meru.

3. Visit Cultural Heritage Centre

Arusha hosts a significant cultural center for art enthusiasts. The Cultural Heritage Centre offers opportunities to learn about the different cultures in Tanzania. The center displays a wide range of African art, such as paintings, wooden carvings, and African jewelry, which is handmade in Tanzania. You can also learn about the cultures from authentic artifacts that they have on the ground.

4. Enjoy the Coffee Plantations and Marketplaces

Arusha has several coffee plantations, and it’s an ideal place to learn about coffee processing, starting from the farm to the final product. You can tour different coffee farms and have the opportunity to taste freshly brewed coffee. Additionally, there are several marketplaces where tourists can buy souvenirs and other African textiles.

5. Trekking in Mount Kilimanjaro

Trekking to the roof of Africa – mount Kilimanjaro – offers a unique experience of its kind. Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro offers tourists the chance to experience the fresh mountain air, fascinating flora, and fauna, snowfields, and glacial valleys. Trekking to Kilimanjaro’s summit is a challenge suitable for the intrepid traveler, and it offers an unforgettable personal accomplishment.

6. Experience Restaurants and Nightlife

Arusha has many restaurants, bars, and nightclubs offering different cuisines and entertainment. From local to international cuisine, tourists can try a range of dishes from Swahili to Italian restaurants. Moreover, various nightclubs offer entertainment options for tourists who enjoy a vibrant nightlife scene.

7. Visit Lake Natron

Lake Natron is a beautiful place located in the heart of Tanzania’s Great Rift Valley. The lake is world-renowned for its stunning pink and red colors, caused by the presence of algae and mineral deposits. The lake is home to millions of flamingos and is an ideal place to experience nature at its finest.

8. Relax on the Beaches of Zanzibar

Zanzibar is one of the beautiful and historical archipelagoes situated off the coast of Tanzania. It’s a paradise for tourists with its serene beaches, coral reefs, world-class diving sites, and beautiful architecture. Visitors to Arusha can take an hour’s flight to enjoy Zanzibar’s beautiful beaches.

Book Your Tour Now

Arusha is unquestionably one of the most beautiful tourist destinations in Tanzania. From cultural center, wildlife parks, and beautiful landscapes that include Mt Kilimanjaro and Mt Meru, the city is truly a heaven for every travel enthusiast. Whether you’re an intrepid explorer, foodie, or art lover, Arusha has something unique for everyone. Ensure to visit these places and experience Tanzania’s unmatched natural beauty and fascinating culture.