IAI African Wild AdventureArusha · Tanzania
Tarangire & Manyara Short Safari

3 days · Private departure

Tarangire & Manyara Short Safari

A two-park taster close to Arusha — perfect first safari

Duration
3 days · 2 nights
Group size
Private departure — 1 to 7 travellers
Accommodation
Mid-range lodges or luxury tented camps
Best time
Year-round; June – October is driest and busiest
Starts in
Arusha / Kilimanjaro Airport
From
From USD 890 per person

Trip overview

A short, affordable taster for travellers with limited time or a long transit in Arusha. Two full days of game drives cover Tarangire's elephant herds and baobab country, then the tree-climbing lions and flamingo shores of Lake Manyara beneath the Rift Valley escarpment. No long drives, no rushing — just the two most accessible and rewarding parks in the north, with comfortable lodge nights between.

Highlights

  • Tarangire's huge elephant herds and baobab landscape
  • Tree-climbing lions and flamingos at Lake Manyara
  • Closest parks to Arusha — minimal driving
  • Great first safari or add-on to Kilimanjaro
  • Family-friendly and gentle on the budget

Day-by-day itinerary

  1. 1

    Day 1 · Arusha → Tarangire

    Pick-up and a full game drive through baobab country and elephant herds; overnight near the park.

  2. 2

    Day 2 · Tarangire → Lake Manyara

    Morning in Tarangire, then drive to Manyara for an afternoon among tree-climbing lions and flamingos.

  3. 3

    Day 3 · Manyara → Arusha / Airport

    A relaxed morning and optional canopy walkway, then transfer back to Arusha or JRO.

What is included

  • Private 4x4 Land Cruiser with pop-up roof and guaranteed window seat
  • Professional English-speaking driver-guide (wildlife certified)
  • All park, crater and conservation fees plus government taxes
  • Accommodation and all meals as listed in the itinerary
  • Unlimited bottled drinking water in the vehicle
  • Airport or hotel pick-up and drop-off in Arusha, Moshi or JRO
  • Flying-doctor emergency evacuation cover while on safari

What is not included

  • International flights and Tanzania visa (USD 50 – 100 on arrival)
  • Travel and medical insurance (compulsory)
  • Alcoholic drinks, laundry and personal shopping
  • Tips for your guide, cook and camp crew
  • Optional extras such as balloon safaris or night game drives

Questions about this trip

How far in advance should I book?

For June to October and the December holidays we recommend 6 – 9 months ahead, because the best camps sell out. Outside those windows 2 – 3 months is usually enough, and we can often arrange a trip at two weeks' notice.

How do I pay and is a deposit required?

A 30% deposit confirms your dates and accommodation, with the balance due 30 days before arrival. We accept bank transfer, credit card and secure payment links, all in US dollars.

Is this trip suitable for families and children?

Yes. Private vehicles mean we set the pace, and we choose family-friendly lodges with pools and interconnecting rooms. For children under six we suggest shorter driving days and parks close to Arusha.

What vaccinations and health precautions do I need?

Yellow fever certification is required if you arrive from an endemic country, and anti-malarial prophylaxis is strongly advised. Speak to a travel clinic 6 – 8 weeks before departure.

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Ready for your Tanzanian adventure?

Every itinerary is private and tailor-made. Call, WhatsApp or email us and we will design your trip around your dates, budget and pace.