5 days · Wildlife safari
5-Day Budget Tanzania Safari
Big Five on a Budget - Camping Safari Adventure
Last updated
- Length
- 5 days, 4 nights
- Group size
- 2–6 guests
- Style
- Wildlife safari
- Stays
- Budget camping
- Pace
- Moderate
- Price
- On request
Overview
About this safari
Experience the magic of Tanzania's Northern Circuit without breaking the bank. This camping safari visits Lake Manyara, Serengeti, and Ngorongoro Crater with professional guides and quality camping equipment. Perfect for backpackers and budget-conscious travelers.
Don't let a tight budget stop you from experiencing one of Africa's greatest wildlife destinations. Our 5-day budget safari proves that incredible wildlife experiences don't have to cost a fortune.
You'll sleep under canvas in spacious dome tents at campsites inside or adjacent to the national parks. Our camping safaris include all equipment - quality sleeping bags, mattresses, and tents. A professional camp cook prepares fresh meals, and you'll be amazed at what comes out of a bush kitchen.
This isn't roughing it - it's experiencing Africa the authentic way. Sitting around a campfire listening to hyenas call, waking to birds singing in the acacia trees, and knowing that lions may have walked past your tent at night. Pure adventure at an accessible price.
Highlights
- Serengeti National Park game drives
- Ngorongoro Crater descent
- Lake Manyara tree-climbing lions
- All camping equipment provided
- Fresh meals prepared by camp cook
- Experienced safari guide
- Best value Tanzania safari
Where you'll go
5 days
Day by day
| Day | Plan | Stay | Meals |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Arusha to Lake Manyara - Tree-Climbing Lions | Tented Camp | – |
| 2 | Lake Manyara to Serengeti - Into the Wild | Camp | – |
| 3 | Full Day Serengeti - The Greatest Show on Earth | Camp | – |
| 4 | Serengeti to Ngorongoro - World Heritage Wonder | Camp | – |
| 5 | Ngorongoro Crater - Return to Arusha | – | – |
- Day01
Arusha to Lake Manyara - Tree-Climbing Lions
We depart Arusha after breakfast, heading west along the Great Rift Valley. Lake Manyara National Park is famous for its tree-climbing lions - a behavior seen in only a few places in Africa. The groundwater forest at the park entrance is home to troops of baboons and blue monkeys. Look for elephants in the acacia woodlands and flamingos along the lakeshore.
Stay: Tented Camp
- Day02
Lake Manyara to Serengeti - Into the Wild
The long but rewarding drive to Serengeti takes you through the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. We stop at the crater rim viewpoint and continue to Olduvai Gorge for a quick visit. Entering through Naabi Gate, the Serengeti stretches before you - truly endless. Afternoon game drives begin immediately, searching for lions, cheetahs, and the vast herds of wildebeest and zebra.
Stay: Camp
- Day03
Full Day Serengeti - The Greatest Show on Earth
A full day exploring the Serengeti ecosystem. We'll cover both the Seronera Valley (famous for leopards) and the nearby kopjes where lions rest during the heat of the day. Pack a picnic lunch and stay out all day - you never know what you'll see around the next termite mound. This is classic safari at its finest.
Stay: Camp
- Day04
Serengeti to Ngorongoro - World Heritage Wonder
Morning game drive in the Serengeti before driving to Ngorongoro. We camp on the crater rim at 2,300 meters - bring warm clothing! The sunset views into the crater are spectacular. Sitting around the fire with a hot drink, anticipating tomorrow's crater descent, is a magical experience.
Stay: Camp
- Day05
Ngorongoro Crater - Return to Arusha
Early morning descent into the crater - the world's largest intact volcanic caldera. In just 260 square kilometers, you'll see elephant, lion, buffalo, hippo, and if you're lucky, endangered black rhino. After a packed lunch by Ngoitoktok Springs, we ascend and drive back to Arusha, arriving late afternoon.
Photos
What the price covers
Included
- Airport transfers
- Professional safari guide
- 4x4 safari vehicle
- All park entrance fees
- Quality camping equipment (tents, sleeping bags, mattresses)
- All meals prepared by camp cook
- Drinking water
- Campsite fees
Not included
- International flights
- Tanzania visa
- Travel insurance
- Tips and gratuities
- Alcoholic beverages
- Personal items
- Sleeping bag liner (recommended)
When to go
The months we recommend for this trip are marked. It runs at other times too; ask and we'll tell you what to expect.
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun (recommended)
- Jul (recommended)
- Aug (recommended)
- Sep (recommended)
- Oct (recommended)
- Nov
- Dec
Questions about this safari
How much does a budget Tanzania safari cost?
Our 5-day budget camping safari costs from $1,400 per person, including all park fees, camping equipment, meals, transport, and guide. This is the most affordable way to experience Tanzania's top wildlife destinations.
What is included in a camping safari?
All camping equipment is provided including quality dome tents, sleeping bags, mattresses, and camping chairs. A professional cook prepares all meals. You just need to bring personal items and a sleeping bag liner.
Is camping safe in Tanzania national parks?
Yes, camping is very safe. Campsites are in designated areas with security. Our guides are experienced and wildlife generally avoids human areas. You'll hear animals at night but they won't enter the campsite.
Can I upgrade from camping to lodge accommodation?
Yes, we offer flexible upgrade options. You can do the entire safari in lodges (mid-range from $2,800) or mix camping and lodges. Contact us for a custom quote.
What wildlife will I see on a budget safari?
You'll see the same incredible wildlife as luxury safaris! The Serengeti and Ngorongoro offer Big Five sightings, great migration herds, and diverse birdlife regardless of accommodation type.
Guest reviews
What our guests say
★★★★★
“Traveling with kids ages 8 and 11, we were nervous about a safari. Bald Eagle created a family-friendly itinerary that kept everyone engaged. The kids are still talking about the baby elephants in Tarangire!”
The Anderson Family · USA · December 2024 ★★★★★
“The combination of safari and Zanzibar beach was perfect. We saw all the Big Five in Serengeti and then relaxed on pristine beaches. The team handled every detail flawlessly. Can't recommend highly enough!”
Emma & David Williams · Australia · September 2024 ★★★★★
“I've been on safaris in Kenya and South Africa, but Tanzania with Bald Eagle was something special. The Ngorongoro Crater is like nowhere else on Earth. The attention to detail and personalized service exceeded all expectations.”
Michael Chen · Singapore · June 2024
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