6-Day Tanzania Camping Safari: Lake Manyara, Serengeti, Ngorongoro Cater and Tarangire National Park from Arusha

Planning a trip to Tanzania to see some of Africa’s most iconic landscapes and wildlife? This 6-day camping safari offers an affordable yet immersive way to explore the country’s famed national parks. While it’s a budget-friendly option, it doesn’t skimp on the sights or the chance to get close to nature.

Instead, it invites you into a world of vast plains, giant herds, and breathtaking scenery — all packed into a well-organized, all-inclusive adventure.

What we love about this safari? First, the opportunity to camp close to the action—nothing beats falling asleep to the sounds of wildlife in the background. Second, the variety of parks covered, from the acacia-dotted landscapes of Tarangire to the teeming plains of Serengeti and the volcanic crater of Ngorongoro, giving you a comprehensive taste of Tanzania’s wildlife treasures.

A potential consideration? The long daily drives (up to 10 hours) might be tiring for some, especially if you’re not accustomed to hours in a vehicle.

Still, if you’re seeking an authentic, budget-friendly safari experience, this tour is suited for those ready for adventure, flexible with travel times, and eager to see a broad swath of Tanzania’s wildlife.

Key Points

• Affordable wildlife experience with all-inclusive camping and meals.
• Multiple national parks visited for diverse scenery and animal sightings.
• Close encounters with wildlife from your tent or during game drives.
• Long travel days mean plenty of time on the road, but packed with sightings.
• Group size limited to 8 ensures a more personal experience.
• Ideal for travelers seeking value, adventure, and authentic camping experiences.

Getting a Feel for the Tour: What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour, priced at $2,675 per person, offers a balanced package of transportation, park fees, meals, and camping gear. It’s designed for travelers who want to see the highlights of Tanzania without the hefty price tag of luxury lodges. The all-inclusive nature means you’ll have meals, park entrance fees, and game drives taken care of, which simplifies planning and budgeting.

However, some essentials aren’t included — notably, a sleeping bag (which you’ll need to bring or rent separately) and optional activities like Olduvai Gorge entry (additional fees apply). Tips are also not covered, so if you’re happy with the service, a tip is appreciated but not mandatory.

Your transportation will be in a 4WD vehicle, perfect for navigating Tanzania’s varied terrain. The group size maxes out at 8 travelers, which allows for more personalized attention from your guides and a more intimate atmosphere during game drives.

Daily Breakdown: What to Expect

Day 1: Tarangire National Park

Your adventure begins with a pickup from Arusha at 09:00, heading straight into Tarangire’s iconic landscape. Known for its large herds of elephants and ancient baobabs, Tarangire offers a relaxed start to your safari. Expect a picnic lunch amidst wildlife sightings, with game drives that could include elephants, lions, and giraffes. The park’s open landscapes are ideal for spotting big cats and birdlife, making it a worthwhile first stop.

Day 2: Serengeti National Park (via en-route game drive)

After breakfast, your journey continues with a drive towards the legendary Serengeti, with an en-route game drive to maximize your wildlife viewing time. The Serengeti’s endless plains are world-famous for their concentration of predators and prey. You’ll enjoy a picnic lunch and a short afternoon game drive as you settle into the vastness of this iconic park.

Day 3: Full Day in Serengeti

This is the day to really get into the game. Multiple game drives — early morning, midday, and late afternoon — give you chances to see lions lounging, cheetahs sprinting, and perhaps a zebra crossing. According to reviews, seeing four of the Big Five in one day on the Serengeti is possible here, which is quite an achievement. Be prepared for a full day of wildlife spotting, with plenty of opportunities to photograph and simply enjoy the scenery.

Day 4: Ngorongoro Crater and En-route Game Drive

Early morning game drive in Serengeti might reward you with sightings of elusive predators like leopards. After brunch, you’ll head towards Ngorongoro Crater for a descent onto the floor, where dense wildlife congregates. Known as Africa’s “Garden of Eden,” the crater often hosts elephants, hyenas, lions, and large herds of buffalo and zebras. Your guide will navigate the best spots for wildlife viewing, and you’ll return to the rim for the night.

Day 5: Lake Manyara National Park

This day starts with an early breakfast and a descent into Lake Manyara. The park’s famous for its tree-climbing lions and large flamingo populations. At the hippo pool picnic site, you can relax while watching hippos and other waterfowl. The park’s lush surroundings contrast with the plains of Serengeti, offering a different perspective on Tanzanian wildlife. You’ll ascend back to the rim and head back towards Arusha, passing through diverse landscapes.

Day 6: Final Morning at Lake Manyara and Return to Arusha

Your last day begins with a final game drive, giving you one last chance to spot wildlife. After a picnic lunch, you’ll depart for Arusha by mid-afternoon, ending your safari with a sense of accomplishment and plenty of photos.

The Experience: What Sets It Apart

This safari’s camping setup is a major draw. Staying in tents at designated sites close to the parks allows you to experience Tanzania’s wilderness at a fraction of luxury lodge prices. It’s a more authentic, immersive approach — you’ll fall asleep to the sounds of wildlife and wake up with the sunrise.

The all-inclusive package ensures no surprises, especially for first-time safari-goers. The guides are experienced, friendly, and helpful, making sure you get the most out of each game drive. One reviewer mentioned how the staff was “friendly and very helpful,” which can make a significant difference in the overall enjoyment of the trip.

Travel days are long, but that’s typical of Tanzanian safaris covering multiple parks. We’ve seen reviews praising the “excellent experience,” and some mention that the variety of parks visited makes this trip worthwhile — especially for those who want to see big game and iconic landscapes in a compact time frame.

The Value Proposition

At $2,675, this tour provides excellent value for a safari that covers five parks and includes meals, park fees, transportation, and camping gear. Compared to luxury lodges, this is far more budget-friendly but still delivers authentic wildlife encounters. The camping aspect not only saves money but enhances the adventure, offering a closer connection to nature.

Travelers have noted that the sightings are plentiful, with quotes like “Saw 4 of the big 5 on the Serengeti in one day,” reflecting the quality of the game drives. The inclusion of camping gear, a 4WD vehicle, and park fees in the price reduces the hassle of separate bookings.

Who Should Consider This Safari?

This experience is best suited for adventurous travelers who enjoy camping and are comfortable with long days of driving and wildlife spotting. It’s an excellent option for those wanting to maximize wildlife viewing at a lower cost. If you’re the kind of person who dreams of sleeping under the stars and sharing stories around a campfire after a day of game drives, you’ll find this trip rewarding.

It’s also great for groups or families who want to share a true safari experience without the expense of luxury lodges. However, if you prefer more comfort or shorter daily drives, a different style of safari might suit you better.

The Sum Up: Is This Safari Right for You?

This 6-day Tanzania camping safari from Arusha offers a fantastic blend of adventure, wildlife, and value. It’s perfect for travelers eager to see iconic parks like Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater without breaking the bank. The camping experience adds an authentic touch, making you feel more connected to the wilderness.

While the long days on the road might challenge some, the reward is the chance to witness some of Africa’s most famous landscapes and creatures in a compact and affordable package. The tour’s small group size fosters a more personalized experience, and reviews highlight the friendliness of staff and the quality of sightings.

If your priority is genuine encounters with Africa’s wildlife and you’re comfortable with camping, this tour offers a rewarding, memorable adventure. It’s a great choice for those seeking value, authenticity, and a hands-on safari experience.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes transportation in a 4WD vehicle, park entrance fees, game drives, camping equipment, and meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) for six days. Tents and camping gear are provided, but you need to bring your own sleeping bag.

Does the tour cover multiple parks?
Yes, the itinerary includes Tarangire, Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, and Lake Manyara, offering a broad view of Tanzania’s wildlife and landscapes.

How many people are in the group?
The group size is limited to a maximum of 8 travelers, providing a more intimate experience and better interaction with guides.

What are the long travel days like?
You can expect up to 10 hours of travel per day, including game drives and en-route stops. These long days are packed with wildlife sightings and scenic views.

Is camping comfortable?
While camping gear is provided, some travelers have noted that a mattress and pillow are included, but you’ll need to bring your own sleeping bag. Reviewers suggest requesting camp beds if possible.

Are meals provided?
Yes, all meals are included, with breakfast, lunch, and dinner served throughout the trip. Meals are typically hearty and suitable for the active days.

Can I visit Olduvai Gorge?
Not as part of this tour. There is an additional fee of $18 US if you choose to visit Olduvai Gorge, which is not included in the package.

What should I bring?
Bring essentials like a sleeping bag, camera, comfortable clothes, hat, sunscreen, and a sense of adventure. It’s also wise to prepare for long days in the vehicle.

What’s the best time to do this safari?
While not specified, Tanzania’s dry season (June to October) is generally ideal for wildlife viewing, but the tour operates year-round, depending on weather and park conditions.

This safari offers a genuine, engaging way to experience some of Tanzania’s most famous parks while keeping costs reasonable. It’s a chance to see incredible animals, sleep under the stars, and learn about Africa’s vast wilderness. Perfect for those who want an authentic adventure with plenty of opportunity for wildlife sightings, all delivered with a friendly, experienced team guiding the way.