5-Day Tanzania Budget Camping Safari
Overview
This 5-day Tanzania budget camping safari takes you through some of the country’s most iconic national parks. You’ll experience the rich wildlife of Tarangire, the vast plains of the Serengeti, the unique ecosystem of the Ngorongoro Crater, and the birdlife-filled shores of Lake Manyara—all while camping under the stars and staying connected with nature.
Tour Plan
Morning:
- Depart from Arusha after breakfast for a 2-hour drive to Tarangire National Park.
- Begin your first game drive upon arrival.
Highlights:
- Elephant Herds: Tarangire is famous for its large elephant populations.
- Baobab Trees: Admire the park’s ancient, towering baobab trees.
- Look out for lions, giraffes, zebras, wildebeest, and antelope.
Lunch:
- Enjoy a packed picnic lunch at a designated picnic site.
Afternoon:
- Continue your game drive along the Tarangire River, a magnet for wildlife.
- In the late afternoon, head to your campsite.
Accommodation: Public Campsite (basic shared facilities)
Meals: Lunch & Dinner
Morning:
- After breakfast, depart for Serengeti National Park.
- Drive through the Ngorongoro Conservation Area with game viewing en route.
Lunch:
- Stop for a picnic lunch along the way.
Afternoon:
- Arrive at the Serengeti and embark on an afternoon game drive.
- Explore the central Seronera Valley, known for year-round wildlife and frequent predator sightings.
Serengeti Highlights:
- Spot lions, leopards, cheetahs, elephants, and more.
- Witness the Serengeti’s iconic endless plains and acacia trees.
Evening:
- Settle into your campsite and enjoy dinner under the stars.
Accommodation: Public Campsite
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Morning:
- Start with an early morning game drive to increase your chances of spotting predators hunting.
Breakfast:
Return to camp for breakfast.
Midday:
- Optional visit to a Maasai village (if available) or continue with a longer game drive.
Lunch:
- Enjoy lunch at a picnic site or at camp.
Afternoon:
- Continue exploring the Serengeti’s diverse landscapes and wildlife. Visit river areas, kopjes (rocky outcrops), and hippo pools.
Evening:
- Head back to camp for dinner and storytelling around the campfire.
Accommodation: Public Campsite
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Morning:
- After breakfast, depart Serengeti and drive to Ngorongoro Conservation Area.
- Stop at the Ngorongoro Crater viewpoint for a stunning panoramic view.
Lunch:
- Picnic lunch at the crater rim.
Afternoon:
- Descend into the Ngorongoro Crater for a game drive. This UNESCO World Heritage site is one of Africa’s best places to spot the Big Five.
Ngorongoro Highlights:
- Black rhinos, lions, buffalo, elephants, hippos, and hyenas.
- Visit Lake Magadi for birdwatching, especially flamingos.
Evening:
- Ascend from the crater and drive to your campsite near the rim.
Accommodation: Public Campsite
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Morning:
- After breakfast, head to Lake Manyara National Park.
Lake Manyara Highlights:
- Famous for its tree-climbing lions.
- Spot large groups of baboons, elephants, hippos, and flamingos along the lake.
- Enjoy the lush groundwater forest and acacia woodlands.
Lunch:
- Picnic lunch at a scenic spot in the park.
Afternoon:
- Continue your game drive before departing for Arusha.
Evening:
- Arrive in Arusha by late afternoon or early evening. Drop-off at your hotel or the airport for your onward journey.
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
This 5-day budget camping safari offers an authentic, close-to-nature experience without sacrificing wildlife adventure
Prices
Quantity | 1 PAX | 2 PAX | 3-5 PAX | 6-10 PAX | 10+ PAX |
Price/Day | $450 | $420 | $350 | $300 | $280 |
Included/Excluded
- Transport in a 4x4 safari vehicle with a pop-up roof
- Professional English-speaking safari guide
- Park fees for all national parks
- 4 nights’ accommodation at public campsites
- Meals as specified (4 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 4 dinners)
- Bottled water during the safari
- Camping gear (tent, sleeping bag, mattress)
- International and domestic flights
- Travel insurance
- Sleeping bag rental (optional)
- Tips for guides and camp staff
- Personal expenses and beverages not included in meals