“Experience wildlife adventure on a budget”
6 Day Budget Camping Safari in Tanzania at Tarangire, Serengeti, and Ngorongoro Crater
Green Mountain Hotel, Nelson Mandela Road, Milla Ave, Arusha, Tanzania
Tanzania Safari Adventure
Embark on a thrilling safari adventure through Tanzania's most iconic parks. Explore the diverse wildlife of Tarangire, the endless plains of Serengeti, and the breathtaking Ngorongoro Crater. Witness the Big Five, marvel at stunning landscapes, and immerse yourself in nature’s wonders. Enjoy comfortable budget camping under the African stars, guided by expert safari guides. Perfect for those seeking unforgettable wildlife experiences on a budget.
Key information
- Group safari
- Group size: 1 - 6 participants
- Children from the age of 12 years are allowed to participate under the supervision of a parent or guardian
- Starting and ending points: Arusha
- English speaking guide
- All park fees are included
Highlights
- 7 game drives
- Chance to see elephants, lions, zebras, giraffes, and ostriches,
- Ride in a pop-up roof 4X4 vehicle
- Visit Tarangire National Park, Serengeti National Park, and Ngorongoro Crater Rim
- 5 nights accommodation
- Daily meals
- Aiport pick-up and drop-off
Styles
6 activity days
Group size: Maximum of 6 participants
Airport transfer included:
Kilimanjaro International Airport
Accommodation
Check-in Time:
08:00
Check-out Time:
16:00
Green Mountain Hotel (1 night)
Green Mountain Hotel is approximately five minutes' drive from the Arusha City and 30 minutes (45 kilometers) from Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) and 14 minutes from Arusha Airport (ARK). The hotel was near to the famous and large club in Tanzania known as The World Garden Club and the famous tourist meeting point known as Maasai Camp. Nestled in the bustling town of Arusha, Green Mountain Lodge offers an inviting and tranquil escape, perfect for travelers embarking on or concluding their Tanzanian safari adventure.
With its serene gardens, warm hospitality, and convenient location, the lodge provides a blend of comfort and charm to complement your safari journey. Situated in the heart of Arusha, Green Mountain Lodge is just minutes away from local attractions, shops, and cultural sites. Its central location makes it an ideal base for exploring Tanzania’s renowned Northern Safari Circuit. The lodge features cozy and well-appointed rooms designed to offer maximum comfort. Each room is equipped with plush beds, en-suite bathrooms, and essential amenities, ensuring a restful stay before and after your safari adventure.
Surrounded by lush greenery, the lodge’s garden provides a peaceful haven where guests can relax, read, or enjoy a refreshing drink in a natural, calming environment. Guests can savor a variety of delicious meals at the lodge’s restaurant, which serves a mix of local and international cuisine. Start your day with a hearty breakfast or wind down with a flavorful dinner in a relaxed atmosphere. The lodge’s staff are known for their exceptional hospitality and personalized care, ensuring that every guest feels at home.
- Accommodation level: Mid-range
Facilities
- Business center
- Car parking
- Conference room
- Gift shop
- Laundry and dry cleaning
- Restaurant
- Secretarial services
- 24-hour room service
- Free Wi-Fi to stay connected
- Airport transfer and shuttle services (available upon request)
- Tour desk for assistance with planning local excursions
Twiga Lodge and Campsite (1 night)
Twiga Lodge and Campsite is located at Mto wa Mbu, one and a half hour drive from Arusha town. Its extensive facilities and beautiful setting has made Twiga a very popular stopover along the route to many Northern Circuit tourist attractions. Walkers and cyclists might be pleased to note that the excellent site and provides fresh air and good views of the wonderful surroundings. If you would like to sleep under the stars, they have a few extremely affordable options for you: You can choose to pitch your own tent, bring a camper van, or hire one of their budget tents.
They also have excellent rooms complete with air-conditioning, bathroom, and Wi-Fi for those that prefer cuddle up in a cozy room. Twiga also offers supplies to overland travelers and their vehicles as well as equipment and solution for their many travelling needs. Whether you are setting out on your great Tanzanian adventure or returning from a safari, make sure that Twiga Lodge and Campsite figures prominently on your itinerary. Nestled in the heart of Mto wa Mbu village, Twiga Campsite and Lodge offers an ideal place to stay for visitors to Lake Manyara National Park.
This unique combination of camping and lodge accommodations provides a versatile option for travelers, whether you're looking for a rustic experience under the stars or a more comfortable stay in a cozy lodge room. The campsite and lodge are conveniently located near the entrance of Lake Manyara, making it a great base for exploring the park and enjoying the surrounding area. Twiga Campsite and Lodge is strategically located near the village of Mto wa Mbu, providing easy access to Lake Manyara National Park and the vibrant local community.
Guests can explore the famous park’s diverse ecosystems, including its lush forests, soda lakes, and wildlife-filled plains, while enjoying a tranquil retreat in the village. The location also allows visitors to experience the authentic culture of Mto wa Mbu village, making it a perfect blend of nature and local immersion. The lodge offers comfortable, well-furnished rooms with modern amenities. Each room comes with a private bathroom, a cozy bed, and a relaxing atmosphere, ideal for guests seeking comfort and convenience after a day of adventure.
For a more authentic, outdoor experience, the campsite provides spacious tents that offer basic yet comfortable amenities. Guests can enjoy the sounds of nature as they sleep under the stars, and there are shared bathroom and shower facilities for convenience. Staying at Twiga Campsite and Lodge offers guests the unique opportunity to experience both nature and the rich culture of Mto wa Mbu village. Guests can participate in guided tours around the village, explore local farms, visit the vibrant markets, and interact with the community.
This cultural immersion adds an enriching layer to the overall experience, making it more than just a typical safari stopover. The onsite restaurant serves a variety of local and international dishes, using fresh ingredients sourced from the area. Meals are served in the open-air dining area, allowing guests to enjoy delicious food while taking in the scenic beauty of the surroundings. After a day of safari activities, guests can relax in the lounge area or around the campfire in the evenings, sharing stories and reflecting on the day’s adventures.
- Accommodation level: Budget
Facilities
- Swimming pool
- Bar
- Restaurant
- Conference room
- Free Wi-Fi in public areas to stay connected
- Gift shop offering local crafts and souvenirs
- Cultural tours and village experiences including farm visits and market tours
- Private and shared transfers to nearby parks including Lake Manyara, Ngorongoro, and Serengeti
- 24-hour security and friendly, helpful staff available for assistance
Seronera Campsite
The public campsites which are collectively called Seronera Campsite are located in the Central Serengeti area known as the Seronera. Seronera Campsite is one of the most famed campsites in Tanzania for animal encounters. Animals will pass through the campsite at night on their nocturnal wanderings. This campsite is guarded. Tents have mats, and bathrooms are outside the tent. Located in the central Serengeti, Serengeti Seronera Campsite offers an authentic camping experience in one of Africa’s most renowned wildlife havens.
Known for its incredible proximity to wildlife and the central plains' scenic beauty, this campsite allows guests to experience the Serengeti’s raw wilderness while maintaining essential comforts. Serengeti Seronera Campsite is ideally situated in the Seronera region, a wildlife-rich area of the Serengeti National Park. It offers easy access to the heart of the action, including year-round sightings of big cats and a front-row seat to the Great Migration during certain seasons. Guests stay in spacious, well-maintained tents with comfortable sleeping arrangements.
The campsite allows travelers to immerse themselves in the sounds and sights of the Serengeti, from the distant roar of lions to the rustle of zebras grazing nearby. A communal dining area is available where guests can enjoy freshly prepared meals. Whether it is a hearty breakfast before a morning game drive or a warm dinner under the stars, meals are crafted to keep adventurers energized.
The open setting of the campsite brings you closer to nature, where wildlife often roams nearby. Guests may encounter zebras, giraffes, or even the occasional elephant right outside their tents, creating unforgettable memories.
- Accommodation level: Budget
Facilities
- Hot showers
- Solar-powered 220V electricity
- Shared clean bathroom and toilet facilities
- Outdoor seating areas for relaxation and socializing
- Basic solar-powered lighting and charging points for devices
- Firepit for cozy evening gatherings and storytelling
- Trained staff for assistance and security
Simba Campsite
Simba Campsite lies on the very rim of Ngorongoro Crater and has an excellent view across the caldera. A fantastic sunrise over the crater rim makes a fine breakfast scene. Often, there are elephants wandering around the camp. This campsite is guarded. Tents have mats, and bathrooms are outside the tent. Facilities at Simba Campsite are basic, but this is more than made up for by the atmosphere of this camp in the clouds. Ngorongoro Simba Campsite A is a scenic and budget-friendly accommodation perched on the rim of the famous Ngorongoro Crater.
Offering travelers an authentic camping experience in the heart of Tanzania’s wilderness, this campsite provides breathtaking views, proximity to unparalleled wildlife, and a genuine sense of adventure. Situated right on the crater rim, Ngorongoro Simba Campsite A boasts an unbeatable location that allows guests to enjoy sweeping views of the world-famous Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its strategic position makes it an excellent base for early morning game drives into the crater.
The campsite provides spacious and well-maintained areas for pitching tents, along with basic facilities to ensure a comfortable stay in the wild. The setting immerses guests in nature, with the occasional visits from wildlife enhancing the authentic safari experience. Guests can enjoy hearty, freshly prepared meals at the shared dining area.
Meals are typically served buffet-style, featuring a mix of local and international dishes. For self-catering travelers, a shared kitchen is available for cooking. Wake up to misty mornings and stunning sunrises over the crater. Evenings at the campsite offer a unique opportunity to relax by a campfire while marveling at the star-filled African sky.
- Accommodation level: Budget
Facilities
- Eating area
- Hot water showers
- 220V generator power in the evening
- Clean and well-maintained shower and toilet facilities
- A shared lounge area for relaxing and socializing
- 24/7 security to ensure guest safety
- Solar-powered lighting and charging stations for electronics
- Assistance with safari logistics and cultural tours
Program
Daily itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Arusha
Your adventure begins with a warm welcome at Kilimanjaro International Airport by your safari guide. Transfer to your budget accommodation in Arusha, a bustling gateway to Tanzania’s renowned national parks. If your arrival is early, optional, you can explore Arusha’s vibrant local markets, sample Tanzanian cuisine, or visit attractions like the Cultural Heritage Center. Settle into your lodge and relax after your journey, enjoying a briefing from your guide about the days ahead. Overnight stay at a budget-friendly lodge in Arusha with dinner included.
Day 2: Arusha - Tarangire National Park
Start your day with a hearty breakfast before departing for Tarangire National Park, a two-hour drive from Arusha. Known for its dense wildlife population and iconic baobab trees, Tarangire offers incredible safari experiences. Enjoy a full-day game drive, where you can spot elephants, lions, zebras, giraffes, ostriches, and even elusive leopards.
Take in a picnic lunch amidst the natural beauty of the park, often accompanied by views of wildlife grazing nearby. In the evening, head to your campsite located near the park. Settle into your comfortable tent as the staff prepares a delicious dinner. Overnight stay in a budget campsite under the African stars.
Day 3: Tarangire - Serengeti National Park
After breakfast, embark on a scenic journey to the Serengeti National Park, traveling through the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. En route, marvel at the rolling highlands, Maasai villages, and dramatic landscapes. Arrive at the Serengeti and enjoy a picnic lunch before starting an afternoon game drive. Witness the famous Serengeti plains, where predators like lions, cheetahs, and hyenas roam in search of prey.
Depending on the season, you may catch the Great Migration, with herds of wildebeest and zebras crossing the plains. After the game drive, settle into your campsite for dinner and an overnight stay. Experience the thrill of sleeping amidst the sounds of the wild.
Day 4: Full day in Serengeti National Park
Start your day early with a sunrise game drive, the perfect time to witness predators in action and animals starting their day. Return to the campsite for breakfast, then continue exploring the park with morning and afternoon game drives. Search for the Big Five - lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos (rarely seen), and buffalos - as well as countless other animals. A picnic lunch will be served at a scenic spot, allowing you to soak in the Serengeti’s unspoiled beauty. After a full day of adventure, return to the campsite for a delicious dinner. Swap stories of the day’s sightings around a campfire before retiring for the night.
Day 5: Serengeti - Ngorongoro Crater Rim
Begin with an early morning game drive in the Serengeti to catch more wildlife action at sunrise. Return to the campsite for breakfast, then journey toward the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, stopping for a packed lunch en route. Enjoy breathtaking views of the crater from its rim, with opportunities to spot wildlife even from this vantage point. Your campsite for the night is perched near the crater rim, offering cool, refreshing highland air. Dinner and overnight stay at the Ngorongoro budget campsite, preparing for the crater adventure the next day.
Day 6: Ngorongoro Crater - Arusha
Rise early and descend 600 meters into the Ngorongoro Crater, one of the world’s most extraordinary natural wonders. Spend half the day exploring the crater floor, home to nearly 25,000 large animals, including rare black rhinos, hippos, lions, flamingos, and more. Enjoy a picnic lunch beside a tranquil hippo pool, surrounded by stunning scenery and wildlife. After an exhilarating morning, ascend the crater and drive back to Arusha. Depending on your schedule, you will be dropped off at your accommodation in Arusha or transferred to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your flight home.
About the safari
- Iconic destinations: Visit Tarangire National Park, Serengeti National Park, and the Ngorongoro Crater, three of Tanzania's most renowned safari destinations
- Incredible wildlife: Spot the Big Five, witness the great migration (seasonal), and encounter diverse wildlife species in their natural habitats
- Breathtaking landscapes: Experience the vast Serengeti plains, the dramatic Ngorongoro Crater, and the baobab-filled Tarangire landscapes
- Authentic camping experience: Enjoy budget-friendly camping under the African stars, blending comfort with a close-to-nature adventure
- Expert safari guides: Travel with knowledgeable guides who provide insights into wildlife behavior, local culture, and the ecosystem
- Crater floor exploration: Descend into the Ngorongoro Crater for a once-in-a-lifetime game drive in this unique wildlife haven
- Spectacular game drives: Daily opportunities to explore different terrains and ecosystems, each offering unique sightings and experiences
- Memorable sunrises and sunsets: Capture stunning photos of golden savannahs and colorful skies at dawn and dusk
Full-day safari in Tarangire National Park
Immerse yourself in Tarangire’s remarkable landscapes, known for towering baobab trees and vast herds of elephants. Enjoy game drives through the park, spotting wildlife such as lions, giraffes, zebras, and waterbucks. Visit the Tarangire River, a vital water source that attracts animals, offering excellent photo opportunities.
Multiple game drives in Serengeti National Park
Explore the iconic Serengeti Plains, famous for their breathtaking landscapes and dense wildlife. Witness predators like lions, cheetahs, and leopards in their natural habitats during morning and afternoon game drives. Depending on the season, observe the Great Migration, a spectacular phenomenon of wildebeest and zebra herds.
Sunrise game drive in Serengeti National Park
Start your day with a magical early-morning game drive to observe predators on the hunt and the park’s vibrant wildlife waking up. Capture the Serengeti’s golden sunrise, a sight that will stay with you forever.
Ngorongoro Crater safari
Descend into the Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and marvel at its unique ecosystem. Spot rare black rhinos, lions, elephants, and large herds of wildebeest and zebras within the crater. Enjoy a picnic lunch by a hippo pool, surrounded by stunning crater walls and wildlife.
Cultural immersion en route to Serengeti
Drive through the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, passing Maasai villages and witnessing their traditional way of life. Learn about the region’s rich cultural and ecological history as narrated by your guide.
Scenic highlights and photo stops
Stop at breathtaking viewpoints along the journey, including the Ngorongoro Crater Rim, for panoramic views. Take advantage of photo opportunities in the Serengeti’s endless savannahs and Tarangire’s iconic landscapes.
Location
The safari will take place in Tanzania.
Tarangire National Park
Tarangire National Park is renowned for its vast herds of elephants, iconic baobab trees, and a rich variety of wildlife. Located in northern Tanzania, it is part of the northern safari circuit and offers a tranquil escape into the wild. Tarangire is home to one of the largest elephant populations in Tanzania. Visitors can also spot lions, giraffes, zebras, leopards, wildebeests, and a host of bird species, making it a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts.
The park is dotted with ancient baobab trees and crossed by the Tarangire River, a lifeline for wildlife during the dry season, creating an excellent opportunity for game viewing. During the dry season (June to October), Tarangire hosts a mini-migration as thousands of animals converge near the river, providing a spectacular wildlife experience.
Serengeti National Park
The Serengeti National Park is one of Africa’s most iconic safari destinations, renowned for its vast savannahs, incredible wildlife, and the awe-inspiring Great Migration. Located in northern Tanzania, the Serengeti is part of a larger ecosystem that stretches into Kenya’s Masai Mara, forming an unparalleled wilderness. The Serengeti hosts the world-famous annual migration of over two million wildebeests, zebras, and gazelles. Witnessing this natural phenomenon, particularly the dramatic river crossings, is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
The Serengeti is teeming with wildlife, including the "Big Five" (lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo), cheetahs, hyenas, and countless other species. It’s one of the best places for spotting predators in action. From sweeping grasslands and rocky outcrops (kopjes) to riverine forests and woodlands, the Serengeti's landscapes offer breathtaking views and diverse habitats for wildlife. The golden hues of the Serengeti during sunrise and sunset provide stunning backdrops for photography and unforgettable memories.
Ngorongoro Conservation Area
The Ngorongoro Conservation Area (NCA) is one of Tanzania’s most iconic and diverse regions, located in the northern highlands of the country. It is renowned for its unique blend of stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and extraordinary wildlife. The area is dominated by the Ngorongoro Crater, a massive volcanic caldera that is home to some of the highest concentrations of wildlife in Africa, earning it the title "Garden of Eden."
Ngorongoro's location within the Great Rift Valley gives visitors a chance to experience breathtaking views of the valley’s floor, dotted with wildlife, and panoramic vistas from the Crater rim. The Crater, with its unique ecosystem, offers a rare opportunity to see both predators and prey co-existing in a small, enclosed environment. The Ngorongoro Crater is the heart of the conservation area. It is the world’s largest intact volcanic caldera, and it has a rich and diverse ecosystem, supporting a variety of wildlife, including lions, elephants, buffaloes, giraffes, and an impressive array of bird species.
It is a remarkable place to see the "Big Five" in a single day. Ngorongoro is also home to the Maasai people, who live within the conservation area and practice traditional nomadic pastoralism. Visitors have the unique opportunity to learn about Maasai culture, visit Maasai villages, and experience their way of life, which has coexisted with the wildlife for centuries. The Ngorongoro Crater lies within the Great Rift Valley, one of the most geologically significant regions on the planet. The valley is home to spectacular landscapes, including salt flats, volcanic mountains, and lakes.
It is a perfect place for exploring unique geological formations and understanding the history of Earth’s evolution. Ngorongoro is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and its conservation area is managed in a way that balances wildlife preservation with the Maasai community’s cultural and pastoral needs. The interaction between the people and the animals in such a delicate ecosystem is a key aspect of what makes this place unique.
Food
Meals are tailored to keep you nourished and energized for your daily safaris. Meals are prepared with locally sourced ingredients, and all drinking water provided is safe for consumption. The safari team can accommodate dietary preferences or restrictions (vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, etc.) if notified in advance.
Breakfasts
Begin each day with a wholesome breakfast at the campsite. Options typically include eggs, toast, pancakes, sausages, fresh fruit, tea, and coffee.
Lunches
Enjoy picnic-style lunches during your game drives, which maximize your time in the parks. These may include sandwiches, salads, fruits, and light snacks, packed to keep you refreshed and satisfied.
Dinners
Evenings feature freshly cooked meals at the campsite. Expect a mix of local Tanzanian and international dishes such as rice, pasta, grilled meat, vegetables, and a dessert.
Excluded meals
For instances when meals may not be included or you want to explore local dining, here are some recommended restaurants in nearby towns:
Restaurants Near Tarangire
- Maasai Central Market Cafés (close to Tarangire Gate): Offers simple yet delicious local dishes like pilau and nyama choma.
- Wild Palm Restaurant: Located in Manyara, this spot provides a mix of Tanzanian and Western-style meals.
Restaurants Near Serengeti
- Seronera Wildlife Lodge Restaurant: Serves hearty meals with an incredible view of the Serengeti plains.
- Lobo Wildlife Lodge Café: Offers a range of snacks and hot meals in a cozy setting.
Restaurants Near Ngorongoro
- Happy Days Bar and Restaurant (Karatu): Serves both local favorites and international dishes in a casual setting.
- Farmhouse Valley Lodge Restaurant (Karatu): Known for its organic, farm-to-table approach with a variety of options.
Self-catering options
If you prefer self-catering, local markets in Karatu and Manyara provide fresh fruits, vegetables, and snacks to stock up for the journey.
The following meals are included:
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Drinks
The following drinks are included:
- Water
- Coffee
- Tea
The following dietary requirement(s) are served and/or catered for:
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten Free
- Hallal
- Lactose Free
- Other dietary requirements on request
If you have special dietary requirements it's a good idea to communicate it to the organiser when making a reservation
Things to do (optional)
Tarangire National Park
- Guided walking safaris: Experience the park on foot with a trained guide, offering a closer look at the flora and fauna
- Night game drives: Explore the park after dark for a chance to spot nocturnal wildlife
Ngorongoro Conservation Area
- Visit a Maasai Village: Learn about the Maasai culture, traditions, and lifestyle through guided village tours
- Olduvai Gorge Museum: Explore the "Cradle of Mankind," a significant archaeological site showcasing human evolution
- Hiking in the Highlands: Take guided hikes in the Ngorongoro Highlands for breathtaking views and unique landscapes
Serengeti National Park
- Hot-air balloon safari: Witness the Serengeti from the skies with a sunrise balloon ride, followed by a champagne breakfast
- Cultural visits to local communities: Engage with nearby tribes to learn about their way of life and traditional practices
- Extra game drives: Extend your wildlife exploration with additional game drives
General activities in the area
- Photography sessions: Arrange guided photography tours to capture the best moments of your safari
- Birdwatching excursions: Explore special birding spots to discover the area's diverse avian species
Local markets and shopping
- Visit local markets near the parks to purchase handcrafted souvenirs, jewelry, and textiles.
Relaxation and wellness
- Some lodges and campsites may offer massage services or basic wellness treatments for relaxation after your adventures.
What's included
- 7 game drives
- Excursions
- 5 nights accommodation
- Daily breakfast, lunch, and dinner as specified in the itinerary
- Unlimited bottled water during the safari
- Private, comfortable 4x4 safari vehicle with a pop-up roof for game viewing
- Transfers to and from Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO)
- All park and conservation fees
- Services of an experienced, English-speaking safari guide
- Dedicated cook to prepare meals during camping
- Tents, camping chairs, tables, and cooking gear.
- Provision of sleeping bags and pillows
- 24/7 customer support during the trip
- Emergency medical evacuation insurance
What's not included
- International flights
- Personal travel insurance (highly recommended)
- Visa fees for Tanzania (if applicable)
- Items such as souvenirs, personal shopping, or tips
- Meals and drinks outside of the specified safari itinerary (e.g., meals at hotels, snacks, or alcohol not included in the package)
- Optional activities
- Tipping for your guide, cook, and camp staff is not included (though appreciated)
- Any upgrades to premium accommodations beyond the budget camping experience
- Laundry services
How to get there
Recommended Airports
JRO
Kilimanjaro International Airport
40 km
Transfer included
NBO
Jomo Kenyatta International Airport
230 km
Transfer not provided
Airport: Kilimanjaro International Airport
Airport transfer included: Kilimanjaro International Airport
No additional charges. You can request this in the next step.
Cancellation Policy
- A reservation requires a deposit of 14% of the total price.
- The deposit is non-refundable, if the booking is cancelled.
- The rest of the payment should be paid 30 days before arrival.
For this organizer you can guarantee your booking through BookAllSafaris.com. All major credit cards supported.
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