5 Days Tanzania Budget Safari Overview
The 5 Days Tanzania Budget Camping Safari offers an adventurous yet affordable journey through four of Tanzania’s most famous national parks: Tarangire, Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, and Lake Manyara. This tour is crafted for budget travelers who want to enjoy the African wilderness without compromising the core safari experience.
Throughout this trip, you’ll witness breathtaking landscapes, spot the legendary Big Five, and explore Tanzania’s rich wildlife and birdlife ecosystems. The safari includes game drives in specially adapted 4×4 safari vehicles, guided by expert local guides, and nights spent under the stars in fully-equipped public campsites.
Camping in Tanzania is more than just a cost-saving choice—it immerses you in nature. Wake up to the call of birds, dine in the open air, and sleep within reach of the sounds of wild animals. Perfect for backpackers, friends, couples, and small groups seeking an authentic and raw African adventure.
Tour Highlights
Explore four top safari destinations in Northern Tanzania
Spot large elephant herds and baobab trees in Tarangire
Experience game drives across the endless plains of Serengeti
Descend into the wildlife-packed Ngorongoro Crater
Discover Lake Manyara’s diverse habitats and tree-climbing lions
Enjoy guided camping with meals prepared by safari chefs
Travel in 4×4 pop-up roof vehicles with professional driver-guides
Perfect for solo travelers, backpackers, or small groups on a budget
5 Days Budget/Camping Safari – Day-by-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Arusha – Tarangire National Park
Your safari begins with a morning pickup from Arusha and a scenic drive to Tarangire National Park. Known for its towering baobab trees and massive herds of elephants, Tarangire offers a classic African safari atmosphere.
Enjoy a full-day game drive through the park’s acacia woodlands and along the Tarangire River, where you can spot buffaloes, lions, giraffes, and countless bird species.
Meals: Lunch & Dinner
Overnight: Public Campsite (Tarangire or Mto wa Mbu)
Day 2: Tarangire – Serengeti National Park
After breakfast, journey through the Great Rift Valley and the Ngorongoro highlands toward the Serengeti National Park, famous for the annual wildebeest migration and vast savannah.
Upon arrival, enjoy an afternoon game drive in the central Serengeti plains. This is the land of big cats—lions, leopards, and cheetahs roam the grasslands in search of prey.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight: Public Campsite (Serengeti Central)
Day 3: Serengeti – Ngorongoro Conservation Area
Start the day with a sunrise game drive in the Serengeti. This is one of the best times to spot active predators and witness the wild coming to life.
Later, drive toward Ngorongoro Conservation Area, with wildlife sightings along the way. Stop for picnic lunch before continuing to Simba Campsite, perched on the crater rim, where you’ll enjoy views into the Ngorongoro Crater.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight: Simba Campsite (Ngorongoro Rim)
Day 4: Ngorongoro Crater – Lake Manyara
Descend 600 meters into the Ngorongoro Crater for a half-day game drive. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the world’s most remarkable wildlife sanctuaries, home to endangered black rhinos, large prides of lions, and abundant plains animals.
After lunch, ascend from the crater and drive to the town of Mto wa Mbu, near Lake Manyara, where you’ll overnight in a campsite ready for the final day.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight: Public Campsite (Mto wa Mbu / Lake Manyara)
Day 5: Lake Manyara National Park – Arusha
Begin the day with a game drive in Lake Manyara National Park, a lush paradise famed for its groundwater forest, flamingos, hippo pools, and tree-climbing lions.
After the game drive, return to Arusha, arriving in the late afternoon where your safari adventure concludes.
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
End of Safari
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What kind of tents are used on this camping safari?
The tents are dome-style, waterproof, and spacious enough for two people. They come with sleeping bags, mattresses, and pillows.Is there access to electricity at the campsites?
Some campsites have limited electricity; charging can be done in vehicles or at designated spots.Can I do this safari as a solo traveler?
Yes, solo travelers are welcome and can join a group or book a private tour at additional cost.Are there bathroom facilities at the campsites?
Yes, public campsites have basic shared toilet and shower facilities, though they may vary in condition.Will I see the Big Five during this safari?
You are likely to see four out of the Big Five. Spotting a black rhino is possible in Ngorongoro Crater, though rare.Can the itinerary be customized?
Absolutely. Days can be added or removed, and accommodations can be upgraded upon request.What should I pack for this trip?
Bring warm clothing for evenings, lightweight safari clothes, toiletries, a flashlight, insect repellent, sun protection, and a camera with extra batteries.What is the food like on camping safaris?
Meals are prepared by a safari chef and include fresh, tasty local and international dishes—vegetarian options are available.
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Price Includeds
Park entry fees and government taxes
Private 4×4 safari vehicle with a pop-up roof
Professional English-speaking driver-guide
Full-board accommodation during the safari
Bottled drinking water during game drives
Airport transfers (arrival and departure)
Price Excludeds
International and domestic flights
Travel insurance and visa fees
Tips for the guide and lodge staff
Alcoholic and soft drinks at lodges
Personal expenses (e.g. souvenirs, laundry)
Optional activities (e.g. balloon safari, Maasai village visit)