6 Days Budget Tanzania Camping Safari

6 Days Budget Tanzania Camping Safari – An Honest Look

Traveling through Tanzania’s legendary parks on a budget might seem like a tall order, but this 6-day camping safari offers just that—an adventure packed with wildlife, stunning vistas, and authentic experiences, all without breaking the bank. While it scratches the surface of the country’s incredible landscapes, it does so with a focus on simplicity, guided expertise, and immersive nature.

What makes this tour stand out? We love the chance to camp close to the action, the knowledgeable guides who know where the animals hide, and the delicious, home-cooked meals that keep you energized for long days of game viewing. That said, it’s not for those seeking luxury or a completely private experience—shared tents and basic amenities are part of the charm here, and some travelers might prefer a more cushioned stay.

This safari is perfect for adventurous travelers who want to get up close and personal with Tanzania’s wildlife, enjoy the thrill of camping in the wild, and experience the parks without hefty costs. If you’re okay with roughing it a bit but crave genuine encounters, this trip could be just what you need.

Key Points

• Authentic camping experience with comfortable tents, solar showers, and eco-friendly toilets.
• Guided wildlife safaris in iconic parks like Tarangire, Lake Manyara, Serengeti, and Ngorongoro Crater.
• Affordable price point of $1,780 per person, offering good value for a comprehensive 6-day adventure.
• Expert guides and cooks providing insightful game drives and delicious meals in the wild.
• Small group size (max 6 travelers) for more personalized attention and a friendly atmosphere.
• All camping facilities and park entrance fees included, with optional airport transfers.

What to Expect on This Safari

Starting Point: Arusha, Tanzania

The adventure kicks off from Arusha, often considered the safari capital of Tanzania. It’s the hub for most wildlife expeditions, and you’ll be picked up early in the morning—ready for the 6-day journey ahead.

Day 1: Tarangire National Park

Your first stop is Tarangire, a park famous for its massive herds of elephants and iconic baobab trees. Expect a game drive with a picnic lunch, as guides patiently seek out herds of elephants, giraffes, and lions passing through the open plains. The drive takes about 7 hours, giving plenty of time to soak in the landscape and wildlife. You’ll camp overnight at a well-equipped site with stunning views of the bush—solar-heated showers and eco-toilets help keep comfort levels manageable.

Day 2: Lake Manyara

After breakfast, head into Lake Manyara National Park for a full day of game viewing. The park’s varied habitat means you’ll see everything from flamingos and hippos in the lake to tree-climbing lions and baboons in the forest. The guides, like Saadi, are known for their animal-spotting skills, often finding herds and predators overlooked by less experienced guides. The day’s drive lasts around 10 hours, and you’ll camp again at a dedicated site, where reviewers mention the helpfulness of staff and the delicious meals prepared by the cook, Modi, which consistently impresses visitors.

Day 3 & 4: Serengeti National Park

The highlight for many is the Serengeti. The journey here involves a morning departure, with a game drive en route, and the promise of encountering the famous wildlife migration. Guides are well-versed in where to find the big cats, wildebeest, and elephants, making these two days packed with wildlife sightings. The afternoon and sunset drives on Day 3 set the scene, but Day 4 is where you’ll really see the Serengeti’s herds—some reviews describe it as “incredible” and “the most amazing experience,” highlighting the thrill of watching animals in their natural habitat for up to 12 hours.

Day 5: Serengeti to Ngorongoro

After a half-day in Serengeti, you’ll head towards the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its volcanic crater and concentrated wildlife. The drive itself is scenic and offers a chance to reflect on your safari so far. Campgrounds near Ngorongoro provide a comfortable base for the night, with many travelers mentioning how well-organized and supportive Simba Adventures is, especially when facing logistical hiccups like flight delays.

Day 6: Ngorongoro Crater

Your last game drive takes place in the crater, often called Africa’s “Garden of Eden” because of its lush landscape and abundance of wildlife. Expect to see lions, rhinos, elephants, and perhaps even the elusive leopard. The crater floor is a natural sanctuary, and the half-day game drive is a fitting end to your safari. After lunch, you’ll return to Arusha, completing the journey with plenty of memories and photos.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

The $1,780 price includes all camping facilities, park entrance fees, and three meals a day—making it a cost-effective way to see Tanzania’s top parks without sacrificing key comforts. The tour also includes all park entry tickets and transportation in a 4×4 with an open roof, essential for wildlife viewing. Having a dedicated guide and personal cook enhances the experience, ensuring you get expert insights and tasty meals amidst the wild.

Most reviews emphasize the guides’ knowledge—Saadi, Modi, and other team members are praised not only for animal-spotting but also for their helpfulness and friendliness. This adds a warm, personal touch that many travelers love. The small group size creates an intimate atmosphere, allowing for more flexible schedules and better chances of spotting elusive animals.

Campsites and Facilities

The campsites are described as quite comfortable, with solar-heated showers and eco-friendly toilets—a plus for those wary of rustic camping. Tents, cots, and sleeping bags are provided, so all you need is your backpack. Staying in a tent in the midst of the bush offers a unique, raw experience, especially with guards on duty at night. From the reviews, it’s clear that the sense of adventure and closeness to nature outweighs any inconvenience for most travelers.

Food and Comfort

One of the standout points from reviews is how Modi, the cook, manages to produce delicious meals in the middle of the wilderness. Travelers mention raving about the quality of the food, which is surprisingly good considering the setting. This makes a huge difference on long days of game drives, where hearty, home-cooked food keeps spirits high.

Practical Aspects and Considerations

Transportation & Timing

The safari uses a 4×4 safari vehicle with an open roof, ideal for wildlife viewing and photography. The journey begins at 8:30 am, so arriving on time is key. Total driving hours each day vary, with some days exceeding 10 hours, but the stops and game drives make the long hours worthwhile.

Group Size & Personal Touch

Limited to a maximum of 6 travelers, this tour feels more like a private adventure than a mass-market tour. This allows guides to give more personalized attention—an aspect repeatedly appreciated in reviews. It also means you’ll share the experience with a small, like-minded group, probably making new friends along the way.

Additional Costs

While most major expenses are covered, tips, beverages, travel insurance, and pre/post-safari accommodation aren’t included. Budgeting an extra amount for tips and drinks is wise but not a surprise in such tours.

Authentic Reviews & Insights

Reviewers consistently mention knowledgeable guides, delicious food, and stunning wildlife encounters. Saadi, in particular, is noted for his animal-spotting skills and helpful attitude, making each game drive productive and fun. Modi’s home-cooked meals are another highlight—many say he’s a magician in the wilderness, turning simple ingredients into tasty dishes.

One traveler described the experience as “unforgettable,” emphasizing how reliable and helpful Simba Adventures was, especially when faced with flight delays. Several reviews mention that the campsites offer stunning views of the bush and a chance to fall asleep listening to the sounds of nature.

The Sum Up

This 6-day budget camping safari offers a genuine, immersive experience of Tanzania’s most famous parks without the hefty price tag. It’s ideal for adventurous travelers who are comfortable camping, appreciate guided expertise, and want to see top wildlife spots like Serengeti and Ngorongoro. The small group size, expert guides, and delicious meals create a friendly, personalized atmosphere, making it feel more like a trip with friends than a tour.

While it’s not plush luxury, the combination of authentic camping in stunning locations, attentive guiding, and good value makes this safari a memorable choice. Expect long days, incredible wildlife, and a true taste of Tanzania’s wild heart.

This tour is best suited for those who want an adventure-packed, budget-friendly trip that combines wildlife, scenery, and a touch of roughing it, all with reliable support from experienced guides.

FAQ

Is airport pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes airport transfers from Arusha, making planning easier.

What kind of vehicle is used?
A 4×4 safari vehicle with a roof top open for wildlife viewing is used on all game drives.

Are all park entrance fees included?
Yes, all the listed parks’ entrance tickets are included in the price.

What amenities are available at campsites?
Campsites feature solar-heated showers, eco-friendly toilets, tents, cots, and sleeping bags.

How many travelers will be in the group?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 6 travelers, offering a small-group experience.

Are meals provided during the safari?
Yes, breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included for all six days, with delicious, home-cooked style meals.

What should I pack for this camping safari?
Bring essentials like a backpack, personal toiletries, a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, and comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor game drives.

Is this safari suitable for children?
The tour is generally suited for most travelers, but age restrictions aren’t specified, so check with the provider if traveling with children.

Can I cancel?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours before the start date, with a full refund.

In short, this safari combines the adventure of camping, the thrill of wildlife sightings, and the guidance of passionate experts—all at an accessible price point. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time safari-goer eager for a real, unfiltered African adventure, this tour offers a fantastic way to experience Tanzania’s wild beauty.