We recommend: Lightweight, neutral-colored clothing (khaki, olive, tan) A warm layer for early‑morning and late‑afternoon drives Sun protection: hat, sunglasses, high‑SPF sunscreen Comfortable walking shoes or lightweight hiking boots Binoculars and a camera with extra batteries/memory cards Insect repellent and any personal medications A small daypack for essentials

Zanzibar Safari: Midrange Adventure to Lake Manyara & Ngorongor

Zanzibar Safari: Midrange Adventure to Lake Manyara & Ngorongor - Serengeti Wildlife Safaris

2-Day Midrange Safari: Zanzibar – Lake Manyara – Ngorongoro

2 Days 1 Night

Overview

This Zanzibar safari is run by Serengeti Wildlife Safaris, a locally based Tanzanian operator. You travel with an experienced local guide, and we plan every detail with you.

Why book this Zanzibar safari with us

First, every Zanzibar safari we run is tailor-made, so we can adjust the dates, accommodation and pace. In addition, our local team supports you from arrival to departure. Before you travel, you can also read about the area on the official Tanzania National Parks (TANAPA) website. For more ideas, see our other Ngorongoro Crater tours.

This 2-day midrange safari suits travelers who are short on time but eager to see the beauty and wildlife of northern Tanzania. The trip starts and ends in Zanzibar.

First, you visit Lake Manyara National Park, famous for its tree-climbing lions. Then you explore the world-renowned Ngorongoro Crater, home to Africa’s Big Five.

Along the way, you also enjoy scenic drives, game viewing, a cultural stop and comfortable accommodation. In addition, our team coordinates every detail, so your journey runs smoothly from start to finish.

Itinerary

Day 01 :

Zanzibar-Lake Manyara National Park

After landing at Arusha Airport, our friendly safari team welcomes you. Then you begin a scenic two-hour drive toward Lake Manyara National Park.

This lush park sits at the base of the Great Rift Valley escarpment. It is known for its rich biodiversity and, above all, its famous tree-climbing lions.

As you drive through the park, look out for elephants, baboons and hippos. You will also spot an impressive variety of birdlife. Around midday, you stop at a scenic picnic site with restrooms. It is an ideal spot to relax and enjoy lunch surrounded by nature.

In the late afternoon, you leave the park and head to the nearby village of Mto wa Mbu. Here, a brief stop lets you sample traditional Tanzanian food and drinks. Afterwards, you continue to your lodge for a well-deserved rest.

Overnight: Suricata Boma
Meals: Dinner

Day 02 :

Mto wa Mbu-Ngorongoro National Park-Zanzibar

On your second day, you set out for the legendary Ngorongoro Crater after an early breakfast. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the best places in Africa to spot all of the Big Five.

The earlier we begin, the better your chances of seeing the animals in action. For example, you may find lions, elephants, buffalo, leopards and the rare black rhino.

Next, you descend into the vast, bowl-shaped caldera. Dramatic scenery and an incredible density of wildlife surround you here. The crater covers roughly 260 square kilometres (100 square miles). Moreover, it is home to over 30,000 animals and more than 500 bird species.

At midday, you stop at a designated picnic site near a hippo pool for lunch and a short break. Afterwards, you continue exploring the crater floor. Later, you begin the return drive to Kilimanjaro International Airport.

Finally, you arrive at the airport and catch your flight to Zanzibar, ready for the next chapter of your adventure.

Included & Excluded

All airport transfers (Arusha and Zanzibar)
Domestic flights: Zanzibar – Arusha & Kilimanjaro – Zanzibar
4x4 safari vehicle with pop-up roof
Professional English-speaking safari guide
All park fees and crater service fees
Game drives in Lake Manyara and Ngorongoro Crater
Accommodation (1 night at Suricata Boma)
Meals as specified: Dinner (Day 1), Breakfast & Lunch (Day 2)
Bottled drinking water during the safari
Cultural experience in Mto wa Mbu

International flights to/from Tanzania
Visa fees
Travel and medical insurance
Tips and gratuities for driver/guide and hotel staff
Additional drinks and meals not specified
Optional activities not included in the itinerary
Personal expenses (e.g., souvenirs, laundry, phone calls)

Map

Frequent Asked Question

How fit do I need to be?

No special fitness level is required. First of all, all game drives take place in a comfortable 4×4 vehicle. You also only take short walks at picnic stops.

What is the best time of year for this safari?

The dry season, from June through October, offers the most reliable wildlife viewing because animals gather around water sources. However, the shoulder months (May & November) often bring fewer crowds and lush scenery.

Can children join this safari?

Yes. Most lodges accept children aged 6 and above. However, safety regulations may not permit younger children on game drives. Please tell us the ages in advance, so we can arrange suitable accommodation and guide seating.

What should I pack?

We recommend:

Lightweight, neutral-colored clothing (khaki, olive, tan)
A warm layer for early‑morning and late‑afternoon drives
Sun protection: hat, sunglasses, high‑SPF sunscreen
Comfortable walking shoes or lightweight hiking boots
Binoculars and a camera with extra batteries/memory cards
Insect repellent and any personal medications
A small daypack for essentials

Are meals flexible for dietary restrictions?

Yes. Please tell us about any vegetarian, vegan, gluten‑free or other dietary needs when you book. That way, our lodge chefs can prepare your meals accordingly.