Embark on a 5-day camping safari adventure.

Travelers dreaming of an authentic Tanzanian adventure often look for a balance between quality wildlife encounters and affordability. This 5-day camping safari offered by The East African Safari and Touring Company promises just that — a chance to witness some of Africa’s most iconic landscapes and animals without breaking the bank.

What we love about this tour is its well-planned itinerary that covers three of Tanzania’s top national parks, expert guides who are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, and the authentic camping experience that brings you closer to nature. Plus, with all-inclusive pricing, it simplifies budgeting for a wildlife-packed trip.

One thing to consider is the group size, which is limited to six travelers, making this a more intimate experience but possibly less flexible for those who prefer private tours. Designed mainly for those eager to encounter the Big Five and enjoy stunning vistas, this safari suits adventurous travelers seeking genuine outdoor experiences and meeting new friends on the trail.

Key Points

• All-inclusive price of $1,250 offers great value, covering park fees, guides, meals, and camping gear.
• Expert guides like Wilson and Bernard are highlighted for their skill, friendliness, and ability to spot wildlife.
• Authentic tented camping in prime locations provides an immersive experience.
• Stunning landscapes across Tarangire, Serengeti, and Ngorongoro offer diverse wildlife and scenery.
• Small group size (max 6 travelers) creates a personalized atmosphere.
• Flexible, well-structured itinerary allows for plenty of game viewing and relaxing moments, with some reviews mentioning impressive wildlife sightings.

The Experience: A Detailed Look at the 5-Day Safari

Starting Point and First Day: Tarangire National Park

Your adventure kicks off from Arusha, with a pickup service included, so no need to worry about organizing transport. The first stop is Tarangire National Park, renowned for its massive elephant herds and ancient baobab trees. Expect to spend around eight hours game viewing, with a picnic lunch along the way.

The landscapes in Tarangire are striking — the mix of riverine forests, grassy plains, and rocky outcrops create a varied setting for wildlife. Many reviews praise the expert guidance of guides like Wilson, who are known for their sharp eye and storytelling skills. One reviewer mentions Wilson’s “great knack with birds and cats,” highlighting the value of knowledgeable guides in spotting elusive animals.

In the afternoon, you’ll move to the Migombani Campsite, situated conveniently with views of Lake Manyara. Here, you can unwind by the infinity pool overlooking Manyara, a feature that sets this camping experience apart from typical rough-and-tumble safaris. Expect basic but comfortable tented accommodation, with all bedding provided, allowing you to connect with nature without sacrificing comfort.

Day Two and Three: The Serengeti — A World Famous Wilderness

Bright and early, you’ll set off for the Serengeti, arguably the most iconic safari park globally. The drive takes a few hours, but the scenery along the way, combined with the anticipation of spotting the Big Five, makes it worthwhile. You’ll arrive in Seronera Valley, the prime area for game viewing, with picnic lunches to keep you energized.

The Serengeti’s vastness — over 35,000 sq km — makes every game drive a new adventure. The landscape varies from rolling plains, wooded river valleys, to less-visited areas like Lobo and Kirawira, offering a diversity not found in many parks. Expect to see herds of wildebeest, zebras, lions, cheetahs, and possibly the elusive leopards, as the park is renowned for its predator populations.

During the second day, we loved the way the itinerary emphasizes full-day game drives, with opportunities to witness the wildebeest migration and other spectacular wildlife displays. The guides’ expertise and local knowledge make all the difference, as mentioned in reviews praising guides like Bernard for their “great driving skills” and “ability to find animals in challenging terrain.”

Overnight stays are at the campsite within the Seronera area. Campers rave about the authentic camping vibe combined with the chance to fall asleep under the stars, a true highlight for outdoor enthusiasts.

Day Three: Full Day in Serengeti

This day is dedicated to exploring different parts of the Serengeti, including the southern plains and remote riverine valleys. The focus is on big game sightings and photo opportunities. Reviewers repeatedly mention how guides help spot animals that travelers might miss, enhancing the experience.

Expect another picnic lunch to maximize your game viewing time. The park’s size means there’s always something new around each bend, from lions lounging on acacia trees to cheetahs sprinting across the plains.

Day Four: Ngorongoro Crater

After an early breakfast, the journey continues toward Ngorongoro Conservation Area, home to one of the densest animal populations in Africa. The Ngorongoro Crater is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and dubbed the “Eighth Wonder of the World” by many, thanks to its incredible density of wildlife.

The crater, a collapsed volcano, offers a unique ecosystem where elephants, lions, rhinos, and flamingos are often seen in close proximity. The drive down the crater walls is a highlight, with some reviews noting how game viewing from the crater floor is impressively productive, making it a must-see for wildlife lovers.

Your accommodation on the crater’s rim at Simba Campsite offers spectacular views. Expect to spend the afternoon game viewing within the crater, with plenty of chances for iconic wildlife photos.

Day Five: Ngorongoro and Return to Arusha

Your final day involves descending back into the Ngorongoro Crater for a few hours of game viewing. Many reviewers mention how Ngorongoro’s ease of access and abundance of wildlife makes it stand out as a premier location to see a mix of species in a single day.

After lunch, you’ll head back to Arusha, arriving in the late afternoon. The journey home is a good time to reflect on the memorable landscapes and animal encounters you’ve experienced.

Why This Safari Offers Great Value

The $1,250 price point includes all taxes, park fees, bottled water, guiding, and camping accommodations — an impressive package given the extensive itinerary and prime locations visited. The inclusion of all meals (breakfasts, lunches, dinners) and professional guides (notably praised for their expertise and friendly demeanor) adds to the value.

While the tour is primarily geared toward those comfortable with camping, reviewers mention that the tented accommodations are comfortable and that the campsites offer spectacular views and a true outdoor experience. This option suits travelers who want an immersive adventure without the luxury price tag.

The small group size enhances the experience, allowing guides like Wilson and Bernard to offer personalized attention, spot wildlife efficiently, and share expert insights. Many travelers comment on how guides go above and beyond, sharing local stories, birding tips, and animal spotting tricks.

The Authentic Touch

What makes this safari stand out is its authentic camping experience combined with top-tier guides. Meeting other travelers around campfires, sharing stories of the day’s sightings, and sleeping under a canopy of stars create memories unlike those from larger, tour-bus style safaris.

Practicalities and Considerations

The timing of early starts is crucial for maximizing wildlife sightings, and this tour respects that with early mornings and full days of game viewing. The limited group size ensures a more intimate experience but may mean less flexibility for last-minute changes.

While the tour is not private, it’s perfect for travelers eager to share a real adventure with like-minded explorers. The pickup from Arusha ensures a seamless start, and the drop-off at the same meeting point makes logistics straightforward.

Who Will Love This Safari?

This tour is ideal for adventurous travelers who don’t mind camping and are eager to see iconic African landscapes and wildlife in a relaxed, small-group setting. Wildlife enthusiasts, outdoor lovers, and those wanting a genuine safari experience will find this trip highly rewarding.

If you’re after luxury lodges, this may not be the best fit, but for those seeking authenticity, expert guides, and stunning scenery, it’s a fantastic choice. The inclusive price and well-paced itinerary make it a practical option for travelers wanting a comprehensive Tanzania safari without hidden costs or complicated arrangements.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from Arusha, with transportation provided during the game drives and transfers between parks.

What is the group size?
The tour operates with a maximum of six travelers, ensuring a more personalized and intimate experience.

Are meals included?
Yes, all breakfasts, lunches (picnic style), and dinners are included, along with bottled water during the tours.

Does the tour include park and conservation fees?
Absolutely, all taxes, park entrance fees, and handling charges are covered in the price.

Is camping comfortable?
While camping involves tents, all bedding and linens are provided. Many reviews mention the campsites’ convenience and the spectacular views, along with the chance to relax by the campfire after a day of game viewing.

What wildlife can I expect to see?
Expect to see the Big Five (lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, rhino), along with cheetahs, giraffes, zebras, and countless bird species, especially in Tarangire, Serengeti, and Ngorongoro.

Can I customize this tour?
This particular experience is a fixed itinerary. However, the company offers different tours and can sometimes tailor certain aspects, especially if booked privately.

Is this tour suitable for families or solo travelers?
Most travelers can participate, and it’s especially suited for those who enjoy outdoor adventures and wildlife photography. The small group size fosters camaraderie, making it friendly for solo travelers and families alike.

Final Thoughts

This 5-day camping safari offers an exciting, authentic taste of Tanzania’s wildlife and landscapes at a reasonable cost. With knowledgeable guides, stunning vistas, and the chance to stay close to nature, it’s perfect for travelers craving a genuine outdoor adventure.

While camping might not appeal to everyone, those who embrace the experience will find themselves immersed in Africa’s wilderness, creating stories to last a lifetime. The carefully planned itinerary balances iconic game drives with relaxed moments, making it ideal for both first-time safarists and seasoned wildlife enthusiasts.

If you’re after a well-priced, high-value safari with authentic camping, expert guides, and a small-group atmosphere, this trip is worth serious consideration. It’s an adventure that promises not just sights but meaningful connections with Africa’s timeless wilderness.