3-Day Budget Camping Safari in Tanzania

Day 1: Arrival in Arusha and Drive to Tarangire National Park

Morning: Arrival in Arusha
Upon your arrival in Arusha, you’ll be greeted by your safari guide at the airport or your hotel.
After a quick briefing, you’ll prepare for your journey to Tarangire National Park.
Drive to Tarangire National Park (2 hours)
The drive from Arusha to Tarangire National Park will take around two hours, passing through
scenic countryside. As you approach the park, you will start to see the first glimpses of Africa’s
wildlife, including elephants, giraffes, and various bird species.
Afternoon: Game Drive in Tarangire National Park
Tarangire is famous for its vast herds of elephants and unique baobab trees. During the
afternoon, you’ll embark on your first game drive, where you’ll have the chance to see large
herds of elephants, wildebeests, zebras, and a variety of predators. The park is also a
birdwatcher’s paradise with over 500 species of birds.
Evening: Setting Up Camp
After your game drive, you’ll head to a designated campsite within or near the park. Many of
these campsites offer basic amenities, providing a truly authentic experience. You’ll have dinner
at camp, followed by a relaxing evening under the stars.

Day 2: Tarangire to Lake Manyara National Park

Morning: Early Game Drive and Breakfast
Start your day with an early morning game drive to catch the wildlife at their most active.
Tarangire is particularly well-known for its birdlife and elephants, and you may also see
predators like lions, leopards, and cheetahs during this time. Afterward, return to camp for a
quick breakfast.
Drive to Lake Manyara National Park (1.5 hours)
After breakfast, it’s time to pack up and drive to Lake Manyara National Park. The journey takes
about an hour and a half. On arrival, you’ll enjoy another thrilling game drive.
Afternoon: Game Drive in Lake Manyara
Lake Manyara is a diverse park that offers a mix of landscapes—from dense forests to open
woodlands and grassy plains. The park is famous for its tree-climbing lions and large flocks of
flamingos that gather around the lake. You’ll also encounter a variety of other wildlife, including
elephants, buffalo, giraffes, and hippos.
Evening: Camp Setup and Dinner
In the late afternoon, you’ll set up camp near Lake Manyara. Like the previous day, you’ll enjoy
a traditional Tanzanian dinner at the campsite, and you can take in the sounds of the African
wilderness around you.

Day 3: Game Drive and Return to Arusha

Morning: Early Morning Game Drive
On your final day, start early with a morning game drive in Lake Manyara National Park. This is
a fantastic opportunity to see the park’s wildlife at dawn when many animals are most active.
Depending on the time of year, you might spot flamingos, giraffes, or even predators on the hunt.
Mid-Morning: Visit to the Village or Local Culture
After your game drive, you’ll visit a nearby Maasai village or engage with local communities.
This provides a deeper understanding of the culture and way of life in rural Tanzania. You might
get a chance to interact with the villagers, learn about their traditions, and see their crafts.
Afternoon: Return to Arusha
After your visit, you’ll start the journey back to Arusha. The drive takes around 2-3 hours,
depending on the road conditions. Upon arrival, you’ll be dropped off at your hotel or the airport
for your onward travel

1. 1. 1. What is the best time of year to go on a safari in Tanzania? The best time for a safari in Tanzania depends on your preferences. The dry season (June to October) is ideal for wildlife viewing as animals gather around water sources, but it’s also the busiest time. The wet season (November to May) offers lush landscapes and fewer tourists, but wildlife may be harder to spot due to thick vegetation.

      2. What should I pack for a safari in Tanzania? Essential items include lightweight and neutral-colored clothing, sturdy walking shoes, a wide-brimmed hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, binoculars, a camera with extra batteries and memory cards, and any necessary medications. It’s also advisable to pack layers as temperatures can vary throughout the day.

      3. Do I need a visa for Tanzania? Most visitors to Tanzania require a visa, which can be obtained upon arrival at the airport or purchased online in advance. Visa requirements vary depending on your nationality, so it’s important to check the latest information before traveling.

      4. Is it safe to go on a safari in Tanzania? Tanzania is generally safe for tourists, including safaris, but it’s important to take standard precautions such as staying updated on travel advisories, avoiding isolated areas at night, and following the guidance of your tour guides.

      5. What types of accommodations are available on safari? Accommodation options range from luxury lodges and tented camps to budget-friendly campsites. Luxury lodges typically offer comfortable amenities such as en-suite bathrooms, gourmet meals, and swimming pools, while tented camps provide a more authentic safari experience with canvas tents and communal dining areas.

      6. What wildlife can I expect to see on safari in Tanzania? Tanzania is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including the Big Five (lion, elephant, buffalo, rhino, and leopard), as well as cheetahs, giraffes, zebras, wildebeests, hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species. The specific animals you’ll encounter will depend on the location and time of year.

      7. Are safaris suitable for children? Many safari operators offer family-friendly safari options, including accommodations with family rooms, shorter game drives, and child-friendly activities. However, it’s important to consider the age and interests of your children when planning a safari and to choose activities that are suitable for them.

      8. What is the typical duration of a safari in Tanzania? Safari durations can vary depending on your preferences and itinerary. Most safaris range from a few days to a week or more, with shorter safaris focusing on specific national parks or wildlife areas and longer safaris covering multiple destinations. Customized itineraries are also available to suit individual preferences and schedules.