DAY 1: Arusha to Tarangire National Park and Overnight in Karatu

• Morning Departure from Arusha

  • Start your journey early in the morning from Arusha. The drive to Tarangire National Park takes approximately 2-3 hours (about 120 kilometers). Enjoy the scenic views along the way, which may include glimpses of local villages and agricultural lands.

• Tarangire National Park Game Drive

  • Upon arrival at Tarangire National Park, you will begin a full-day game drive. Tarangire is renowned for its large elephant herds and iconic baobab trees. During your game drive, keep an eye out for other wildlife such as lions, leopards, giraffes, zebras, and various antelope species.
  • The park is also home to over 500 bird species, making it a paradise for birdwatchers. Plan to stop at various viewpoints for photography and to enjoy the landscape.

• Lunch in the Park

  • A packed lunch can be arranged to enjoy amidst nature during your game drive. This allows you to maximize your time observing wildlife without returning to a lodge.

• Afternoon Game Drive

  • Continue exploring Tarangire in the afternoon. Depending on the season (June to October), you may see more animals congregating around water sources.

• Drive to Karatu

  • After an exciting day in Tarangire, depart for Karatu in the late afternoon. The drive takes about an hour (approximately 50 kilometers). Check into your accommodation for dinner and overnight stay. Options range from budget lodges to mid-range hotels or luxury tented camps.

DAY 2: Ngorongoro Crater Exploration and Return to Arusha

• Early Morning Breakfast

  • Enjoy an early breakfast at your accommodation before departing for Ngorongoro Crater.

• Drive to Ngorongoro Crater

  • The journey from Karatu to Ngorongoro Crater takes about 30 minutes (approximately 20 kilometers). Arrive at the crater rim where you can take in breathtaking views before descending into the crater itself.

• Ngorongoro Crater Game Drive

  • Spend the morning exploring Ngorongoro Crater, one of Africa’s most famous wildlife areas. The crater is home to a high concentration of animals due to its unique ecosystem.
  • Look out for all members of the Big Five: lions, elephants, buffaloes, leopards, and rhinoceroses. Other wildlife includes wildebeests, zebras, hyenas, and various bird species.

• Lunch in the Crater

  • A picnic lunch can be enjoyed within designated areas inside the crater while taking in your surroundings.

• Afternoon Game Drive and Departure

  • Continue with your game drive until mid-afternoon when it’s time to head back up to the crater rim.

• Return Journey

  • After exiting Ngorongoro Crater, begin your drive back towards Arusha or Kilimanjaro Airport. Depending on traffic conditions and time available, you might stop briefly in Arusha town for souvenirs or refreshments before concluding your tour.