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7-Day Best of Northern Tanzania Budget Camping Safari

7 Days

Safari Overview

This week-long camping safari provides an opportunity to witness the key attractions of the Northern Safari Circuit. You will encounter stunning wildlife set against a backdrop of some of the most varied landscapes; monkeys in the woods, lions perched in trees, elephants among acacia trees, and a vast array of animals within a collapsed volcano. Additionally, you will explore the renowned Serengeti National Park. The scenery is awe-inspiring, and the diversity and abundance of wildlife you will observe are truly memorable. It is an experience of epic proportions.

Safari Highlights

  • Visit the Famous Serengeti National Park
  • Spotting the Big Five (Lion, Elephant, Leopard, Rhino, Buffalo)
  • Birdwatching
  • View Ngorongoro Crater
  • Watch a large herd of elephant families in Tarangire

Itinerary

You’ll be collected from the airport (or hotel).
Accommodation before the tour departs can be arranged for an extra cost

Meals & Drink: Meals not included, Drinks not included

In the morning you will be collected from your accomodation in Arusha by your personal Safari Guide. The drive to Tarangire is on a good tarmac road, across the gently rolling Masai plains with scattered acacia trees. En route, you will pass many Masai in their colurful dress walking on the roadside, riding bicycles, herding their cattle and driving donkeys carts.
Tarangire National Park is well known for its large elephant herds. From the open roof of the vehicle you will experience the seasonal swamps, savanna and Tarangire River in search of many animals including zebra, wildebeest, buffalo, elephant and giraffe. It’s possible that you will catch a glimpse of a lion stalking its prey or leopards watching and relaxing in the trees above. After an extensive game drive, having experienced the various sights and sounds of the wilderness, you will leave the park and head to a nearby campsite, where you will enjoy dinner and an overnight stay

Accomodation: Lilac Campsite or Equivalent
Meals & Drink: All meals included, Drinks not included

After breakfast, you will continue towards the fertile highlands where wheat, coffee and corn are grown by the Iraqw people. Passing through the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, you will be able to see the breath-taking Ngorongoro Crater before traveling onwards to the Serengeti National Park, which you will reach by midday. The Serengeti National Park is the largest park in Tanzania with divers landscapes and habitats, such as grassy plains, swamps, lakes, savannah and mountains. Here the biggest wildebeest and zebra migration takes place and depending on the season, you may have the opportunity to witness thousands of animals on their search for food and water.

After an extensive game drive, you will drive to your campsite where you will enjoy dinner and an overnight stay.

Accomodation: Nyani Campsite or Equivalent
Meals & Drink: All meals included, Drinks not included

The entire day is set aside for more game drives in the Serengeti National Park. The Serengeti is the habitat for an abundance of wildlife, such as impalas, buffalo, crocodiles and hippos, but is more well-known for its great migrating herds of zebras and wildebeest. The animals’ trek is determined by the rainfall and varies from year to year. In November and December the animals move from the northern region, dominated by woodlands and hills, to the grassy plains of the south. During the longer rainy season from April to June, they return to the north. Apart from the migrating herds, you might have the chance to see predators, such as leopards, cheetahs and lions, always lurking close by.

After an unforgettable day, you will return to your campsite for dinner and an overnight stay.

Accomodation: Nyani Campsite or Equivalent
Meals & Drink: All meals included, Drinks not included

After an early breakfast you will head out for another game drive in the Serengeti. You might be able to spot the “Big Five” – lion, elephant, buffalo, rhino and leopard – before embarking on your journey to the Ngorongoro Crater. The animals roam freely through the unfenced reserves offering you an uninterrupted game viewing experience. Arriving at the edge of the crater you will have your first glimpse of what awaits you the following day – glistening streams, open grassland and an infinite amount of animals. You will spend the night at a campsite directly on the crater’s edge with the orange glow of sunset surrounding you as you drift off to sleep.

Accomodation: Simba Campsite or Equivalent
Meals & Drink: All meals included, Drinks not included

Early risers are rewarded with breath-taking views of the rising sun over the crater’s edge and after a hearty breakfast you will drive down the adventurous track into the crater. This UNESCO world heritage site, formed millions of years ago, is 610 m deep and covers roughly around 260 square kilometres. Due to its dense animal population of approximately 25 000, the crater offers the best game viewing of all the parks in Tanzania. In matter of minutes you will be able to see wildebeest, zebras, gazelles, elephants and some of the more than 500 bird species in the area. With a little bit of luck you might catch a glimpse of the endangered black rhino through the grass.

After lunch you will ascend the steep walls of the crater and head to your campsite for dinner and an overnight stay.

Accomodation: Lilac Campsite or Equivalent
Meals & Drink: All meals included, Drinks not included

After breakfast, you will drive to your final destination on this epic safari – Lake Manyara National Park. This is a relatively small but diverse park, 120km west of Arusha. The park’s namesake is a shallow, salt lake. It covers a large area of the park, flooding and drying with the seasons and is home to thousands of flamingos and over 500 other bird species. On your exploration of the park you will see monkeys, giraffe, zebra, wildebeest, buffalo, elephant and with some luck, lions lounging in the trees. The park is known for its diverse landscapes; not only open grassy plains, but also primate-filled woodlands and baobab dotted cliffs.

After an extensive game drive through the park, you will head back to Arusha, where you will arrive in the early evening.

No Accommodation. End of Safari
Meals & Drink: Breakfast & Lunch included, Drinks not included

What's Included

  • Park fees(For non-residents)
  • All activities(Unless labeled as optional)
  • All accommodation(Unless listed as upgrade)
  • A professional driver/guide
  • All transportation(Unless labeled as optional)
  • All Taxes/VAT
  • Roundtrip airport transfer
  • Meals(As specified in the day-by-day section)
  • Drinks(As specified in the day-by-day section)

What's Not Included

  • International flights(From/to home)
  • Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour
  • Tips(Tipping guideline US$15.00 pp per day)
  • Personal items(Souvenirs, travel insurance, visa fees, etc.)

Most Asked Safari Questions

When is the best time to visit Tanzania?

Many travelers ask us when the best time is to visit Tanzania. The answer is … there is not one right answer. It depends on what you want to see, where you want to go, your budget and interests. Please find a comprehensive guide on when is the best time to visit Tanzania here.

Dry Season (June to October & December to February): These months are ideal for safaris and beach visits due to the pleasant weather and excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. However, expect higher hotel rates and more crowded parks and attractions.

Mid Season (March & November): This period offers a balance of moderate hotel rates and fewer tourists. The weather can be variable, and some attractions might have limited availability (due to rains), but you still get great wildlife sightings and a more relaxed safari experience.

Wet Season (April & May): Perfect for budget-conscious travelers, the low season features the lowest hotel rates and the least crowded parks. The heavy rains make the scenery vibrant and lush, but travel plans can be affected by the weather.

What can I expect from a safari in Tanzania with Tanzania Specialist?

Our safaris in Tanzania offer an opportunity to explore the country’s incredible wildlife and stunning landscapes. We specialize in private safaris, which means you have a 4×4 Landcruiser or jeep all to yourselves. You have the flexibility to decide when the safari starts and ends, and our experienced guides can help you make that decision on the day of your adventure. Whether you want to witness the animals at their most active during sunrise and sunset when temperatures are pleasant, or if you fancy ending the day by the pool, it’s entirely up to you. Tanzania’s diverse wildlife is active at various times of the day, so you’ll have plenty of opportunities to spot the animals in action.

How can I personalize my Tanzania trip with your services?

At Tanzania Specialist, we’re all about co-creating your perfect journey. When you plan your Tanzania adventure with us, you’re not just booking a trip; you’re embarking on a personalized experience. We start by understanding your wishes and preferences, and we won’t stop until every aspect of your journey aligns perfectly with your vision. Our team works closely with you to ensure that your entire trip is tailor-made to your satisfaction. And for added convenience, we offer a selection of our most popular Tanzania trips and safaris as a starting point for your consideration.

Can I see the Big Five in Tanzania?

Absolutely, Tanzania is renowned as one of the prime destinations to encounter the Big Five. These magnificent creatures—lion, leopard, elephant, rhinoceros, and buffalo—can be observed in their natural habitats, making Tanzania a preferred choice for wildlife enthusiasts.

Is it safe to travel to Tanzania?

Absolutely, Tanzania is a safe and welcoming destination for travelers. The country offers a hospitable environment, especially in tourist areas like Arusha, and you can explore its beautiful landscapes and wildlife with confidence. Local people are friendly, and safety measures, such as keeping an eye on your belongings, are always advisable, just as you would in any other part of the world. Tanzania’s natural beauty and the warmth of its people make it a fantastic place to visit.

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7-Day Best of Northern Tanzania Budget Camping Safari