6 Days Tanzania Wildlife Camping Safari

Exploring the 6 Days Tanzania Wildlife Camping Safari: An Honest Review

If you’re thinking about a safari in Tanzania, a six-day camping adventure offers a raw, budget-conscious way to see some of the continent’s most famous wildlife. This particular tour, offered by Inno Africa Safaris, combines the thrill of game drives with the charm of sleeping under the stars — a true immersion into nature. It’s designed for travelers who don’t mind sharing a tent and want a hands-on experience with the wild, rather than plush luxury.

What caught our eye? First, the small group size — only your private group on this tour — which promises a more personalized experience. Second, the visit to Olduvai Gorge, the site of ancient human fossils, adds an unexpected layer of history to the wildlife-focused itinerary.

A possible caveat? The public campsite accommodations mean no luxury lodges, so if you’re craving five-star comforts, this might not be your perfect fit. But for those who value authentic adventure and are happy with basic camping, this tour offers solid value.

This safari is ideal for travelers eager to explore Tanzania’s iconic landscapes, see the Big Five, and embrace a no-frills, immersive approach to African wildlife.

Key Points

• Authentic camping experience in some of Tanzania’s most stunning locations
• Close-up wildlife viewing with expert guides in open 4×4 vehicles
• Visit to Olduvai Gorge, adding a historical touch to your safari
• Private group setting ensures personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere
• All-inclusive—meals, transfers, camping gear, and game drives are covered
• Good value for the price, especially considering the comprehensive itinerary and included extras

A Closer Look at the 6-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arriving in Arusha

Your adventure begins with a warm welcome at either Kilimanjaro or Arusha Airport. The transfer to your hotel or lodge in Arusha sets a comfortable tone for the journey ahead. Expect a relaxed evening with dinner included, giving you time to settle in and prepare for the exciting days to come.

What travelers love: The smooth pick-up process and the chance to start your trip comfortably. One reviewer noted, “They took care of everything from accommodation, transportation, food, etc.” — making the first day stress-free.

Day 2: Lake Manyara National Park

A scenic 2.5-hour drive takes you from Arusha to Lake Manyara, perched on the Rift Valley’s edge. The hotel here offers breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding landscapes. In the afternoon, you’ll settle into the Kizumba campsite for the night, with all camping gear provided.

Highlights: The chance to see flamingos, baboons, and possibly elephants crossing the lakeshore. The altitude and terrain provide a diverse habitat for various animals and bird species.

Travel tip: The drive is non-game viewing, so the focus is on arriving and settling in for your first game drive the following day.

Day 3: Serengeti National Park

Prepare for a full day of game viewing in Serengeti National Park, arguably Africa’s most famous wildlife reserve. The early morning drive sets the tone for encounters with vast herds of plains animals; the park boasts over 4 million animals and 500 species of birds.

You’ll have a packed lunch, so you can stay out longer, maximizing your chance to witness predators in action. The Seronera campsite becomes your home for the night.

What’s special: The Serengeti’s wide-open plains are perfect for viewing predators hunting, lions lounging, and elephants migrating. A reviewer raved about the “big concentration of plain animals” and the thrill of spotting predators in their natural environment.

Day 4: Serengeti and Olduvai Gorge

After breakfast, you’ll head towards the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, passing through Olduvai Gorge — a place with deep archaeological significance, where fossils indicate human ancestors dating back 3.5 million years.

This stop adds a fascinating historical dimension to your trip, contrasting the living wilderness with ancient traces of humankind. The journey continues to the Simba campsite near Ngorongoro Crater.

Insight: This site enriches your understanding of human evolution, a bonus for history buffs or curious travelers.

Day 5: Ngorongoro Crater

Your full day is spent exploring the Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the best places in Africa to see a dense concentration of wildlife, including the Big Five. The crater’s varied habitats, from dense forest to soda lakes, support a broad spectrum of animals and birdlife.

The day also includes a picnic lunch within the crater, with spectacular views as you ascend back to the campsite, the Kizumba Campsite.

What travelers say: Visitors often mention the “spectacular concentration of wildlife” and the chance to see lions, elephants, and rhinos all in one place, often in a single game drive.

Day 6: Tarangire National Park and Return to Arusha

On your final day, you’ll visit Tarangire National Park for a full day of game viewing. Known for its large herds of elephants and distinctive baobab trees, Tarangire offers a different landscape and wildlife experience.

In the late afternoon, you’ll head back to Arusha, completing your safari with plenty of time to relax or explore the city if you wish.

Review note: “Most travelers find Tarangire a great way to wrap up their safari, with its unique scenery and abundant wildlife,” as one review highlights.

What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour is impressively comprehensive for the price of around $2,372 per person. Everything from camping gear and meals to transfers and game drives is covered, making it a stress-free option for budget travelers.

You’ll sleep in public campsites with tents, mattresses, and camping equipment provided, which keeps costs down but requires a willingness to rough it a bit. Meals are included, with water, coffee, and tea to keep you hydrated during long game drives.

Extra charges: International flights, visas, personal expenses, tips, and optional activities like visiting Maasai villages are not included. Also, if you prefer a more luxurious experience, this setup might feel basic, but it offers authentic immersion.

Transportation and Guides

A key strength of this tour is the 4×4 safari vehicle with a guaranteed window seat, making game viewing easier and more comfortable. The guides are described as professional and English-speaking, with many reviews praising their knowledge and friendly demeanor.

Accommodation and Camping

Staying in public campsites provides a sense of adventure — sleeping under the stars and waking up to the sounds of wildlife. All camping equipment is provided, but be prepared for modest facilities compared to lodge stays.

Flexibility and Group Size

Being a private tour, only your group participates, fostering a relaxed atmosphere. The flexibility means you can often customize certain aspects, and guides tend to be attentive to your interests.

Authenticity and Value

Many reviewers have raved about the knowledgeable guides, describing them as “great,” “friendly,” and “prevenant” (considerate). The stunning views, especially over the Serengeti plains and Ngorongoro Crater, are frequently noted as highlights.

In terms of value, the tour’s all-inclusive nature — covering meals, transport, camping gear, and entry fees — makes it a solid deal, especially for travelers eager to see a lot in a short time without worrying about hidden costs.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This safari is best suited for adventurous travelers who don’t mind sleeping in tents and want to experience Tanzania’s wildlife in an authentic way. It’s perfect for those who value guided expertise and close-up wildlife encounters but are comfortable with basic accommodations. If you’re traveling on a budget but still crave a comprehensive safari experience, this tour hits the mark.

Final Thoughts

This 6-day camping safari offers a well-rounded, budget-friendly way to see some of Tanzania’s most iconic landscapes and animals. The combination of game drives, historical sites like Olduvai Gorge, and authentic camping makes for an adventure that’s as enriching as it is exciting.

The guides’ knowledge and the chance to sleep under the stars are standout features, giving a sense of connection to the land that luxury lodges can’t match. With all the essentials included — meals, transport, and camping gear — you can focus on the stunning scenery and incredible wildlife.

While the accommodations are basic, the experience delivers real value for those eager to enjoy Africa’s wilderness without breaking the bank. This trip would suit intrepid travelers, wildlife enthusiasts, and anyone wanting a genuine, hands-on safari in Tanzania.

FAQ

What is included in the price?
All accommodations in public campsites, tents, mattresses, camping gear, meals, transfers, game drives, experienced guides, bottled water, and entrance fees are included.

Are meals included?
Yes, breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included for each day of the safari, along with coffee, tea, and bottled water during game drives.

What kind of vehicle is used?
A 4×4 safari vehicle guarantees windows seats for optimal wildlife viewing and comfort during long drives.

Is this tour suitable for families or solo travelers?
It’s designed for private groups with a maximum of your own party, making it flexible for families or friends. Solo travelers can join as part of their own private group.

What is the accommodation like?
You’ll sleep in public campsites with tents, mattresses, and camping equipment provided. No luxury lodges, but a genuine camping experience.

How experienced are the guides?
Guests frequently praise the guides for their knowledge, friendliness, and professionalism, which enhances the overall experience.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since it’s a private tour, there’s some flexibility, but all activities are outlined in the itinerary. It’s best to discuss specific requests with the provider beforehand.

This safari is a great fit for travelers who want to see the highlights of Tanzania’s wildlife, enjoy authentic camping, and have a knowledgeable guide by their side. It offers a compelling balance of adventure and value, making it a memorable way to explore Africa’s wilderness.