7 Days Tarangire, Serengeti, Ngorongoro & Manyara Camping Safari Tour Tanzania

Introduction: Discovering the 7-Day Tarangire, Serengeti, Ngorongoro & Manyara Camping Safari

If you’re dreaming of witnessing Africa’s legendary Big Five, vast plains, and endless skies, this 7-day camping safari in Tanzania ticks every box. While we haven’t personally been on this exact tour, it’s clear from glowing reviews that it offers a genuine, well-rounded experience of Tanzania’s most iconic parks.

What we love about this safari: the focus on the Serengeti’s Great Migration, the chance to camp in some of Tanzania’s most breathtaking settings, and the expertise of guides who make animal sightings both frequent and memorable. Plus, the price—around $2,700 per person—is surprisingly reasonable for a full week of adventure in such prime locations.

One thing to consider is the group size, which caps at just six travelers, creating a more intimate experience but also requiring flexibility. This safari suits adventurous wildlife lovers who appreciate authentic camping with the chance to see animals in their natural habitat, not just from a lodge window.

Key Points

• Focus on the Great Migration enhances the safari’s uniqueness.
• Experienced guides like Assad and Mtina are praised for their knowledge and friendliness.
• Camping experience offers a closer connection with nature, with good facilities and food.
• Wildlife sightings include the Big Five, the Ugly Five, and countless other species.
• Flexible options to return to Arusha by land or fly from the remote Serengeti.
• Value for money given the extensive parks visited and included amenities.

Getting to Know the Safari: An In-Depth Breakdown

The Itinerary: A Deep Dive into Tanzania’s Top Parks

This tour is designed with a keen eye for the natural spectacle of the Serengeti, Ngorongoro, and other parks, with at least 4 nights in the bush. It begins early at 7:00 am in Arusha, where you meet your driver-guide and set off into Tanzania’s wilderness with a mobile camping setup—meaning you’ll be sleeping under the stars, a real highlight for many travelers.

Tarangire National Park kicks off the adventure. Known for its enormous elephant herds and iconic baobab trees, Tarangire is a lush haven contrasting the dry plains of the Serengeti. Guests often mention the knowledge of guides, like Assad, who “knew exactly where to find the animals,” making game drives fruitful right from the start.

Following Tarangire, the journey takes you into the Serengeti, the world-famous park home to the Great Migration. Depending on the time of year, you’ll either stay in the central area, which boasts the highest concentration of big cats and predators or follow the migration herds. The itinerary is carefully designed to maximize your chances of witnessing the incredible movement of millions of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles.

Your accommodation isn’t in lodges but in campsites, giving you a genuine safari feel. Reviewers repeatedly mentioned how comfortable the camping setup was, with towels, sleeping bags, and tasty meals provided. The camping experience adds an authentic touch, allowing guests to appreciate the sounds of the bush at night.

Next is the Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage site and often called the “Garden of Eden” for its dense wildlife and stunning views. Here, the group comments highlight the guide’s sharp eyes and expertise, with one reviewer noting, “Omer’s knowledge of the area was incredible,” which made spotting elusive animals like rhinos and cheetahs much easier.

Finally, the tour concludes in the Manyara National Park, famous for its flamingos and tree-climbing lions. This park caps the safari with a diverse array of animals in a smaller, lush setting, perfect for a relaxed game drive.

Transportation & Group Dynamics

Travelers typically start early, and the safari vehicle is spacious enough for comfort, with some reviews noting the guides’ skill in positioning for the best views. The group size is kept small—max six—meaning you get personalized attention and plenty of chances for animal sightings without feeling rushed.

Guides: The Heart of the Experience

According to reviews, guides like Assad, Mtina, and Omer aren’t just drivers—they’re repositories of knowledge and humor. One reviewer remarked, “Our guide Mtina was friendly, personable, and extremely knowledgeable,” which made the entire trip more engaging. They’re praised for their animal identification skills, understanding of animal behaviors, and their ability to find elusive creatures.

Food & Camping Comfort

The included meals—breakfast, lunch, and dinner—are generally well received, with some guests mentioning that lunches could get repetitive but overall enjoyed. Drinking water and wine are provided, adding a touch of relaxation after a day on the plains.

Towels are supplied, and the sleeping gear is comfortable enough for chilly nights under the stars. The camping setup allows for an immersive experience, with some reviews mentioning how close you feel to wildlife during the night, although this requires a sense of adventure.

Activities & Optional Extras

The tour includes a free day tour upon request, which can be customized to suit your interests—whether a cultural visit or additional game drives. The safari also offers flexibility; you can opt to return to Arusha by land or fly from the Serengeti, a perk for travelers with tight schedules.

Price & Value

At approximately $2,700 per person, this safari offers solid value, considering the parks visited, the experienced guides, and the inclusive amenities. The reviews reflect this value, with many guests emphasizing how the experience exceeded their expectations without breaking the bank.

Why This Tour Works Well

This safari is perfect for adventurers who crave authentic camping and want to see the Great Migration in action. The small group sizes and knowledgeable guides ensure a personalized experience, and the park choices promise plenty of wildlife encounters. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly way to spend a week in Tanzania’s wilderness with the comforts of good food and expert guiding, this tour is hard to beat.

What Could Be Better?

Some travelers noted that lunches can be slightly repetitive, which might matter if you’re planning a longer trip. Also, the group size—max six—means spots fill up fast, so early booking is recommended. The remote nature of the Serengeti means travel times can be long and bumpy, but that’s part of the authentic safari charm.

The Sum Up: Who Is This Safari Best For?

This 7-day camping safari stands out for its authenticity, expert guides, and focus on key Tanzanian parks. It’s best suited for travelers who love the idea of camping under the stars and are eager to witness Africa’s iconic wildlife in its natural habitat. With a focus on the Great Migration and the chance to explore diverse ecosystems, it’s a great choice for adventure seekers and wildlife enthusiasts alike.

If you’re after a personalized, genuine safari experience that balances value, adventure, and comfort, this tour delivers in spades. Just pack your sense of humor, a pair of binoculars, and plenty of enthusiasm—your Tanzanian adventure awaits.

FAQ

How many days does the safari last?
It’s a 7-day tour, allowing ample time to explore Tarangire, Serengeti, Ngorongoro, and Manyara with enough overnight stays in the parks.

Is camping comfortable?
Guests report the camping setup is comfortable with provided towels, sleeping bags, and good food. The experience is immersive, with some nights spent under the stars.

Can I customize the return trip?
Yes, the safari offers options to return to Arusha by land or fly from the Serengeti, depending on your schedule.

Are drinks included?
Yes, drinking water and wine are included in the package, making relaxing after game drives easier.

What animals might I see?
Expect the Big Five, the Ugly Five, and many other species. Reviewers frequently mention seeing lions, elephants, cheetahs, and more.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to a maximum of six travelers, ensuring a more personal experience.

Are guides multilingual?
Yes, guides can speak English, Spanish, and French, helping to accommodate international travelers.

What should I pack?
Bring layers for varying temperatures, binoculars, a camera, and essentials for camping—though most camping gear and meals are provided.

This safari is a wonderful choice for those wanting an immersive, budget-friendly adventure in Tanzania’s legendary parks, led by guides who know how to find the wildlife and keep the experience lively and fun.