With our Tanzania budget safaris, we offer you a pocket-friendly opportunity to explore unique destinations on Earth. Tanzania, known for its great treasures, is a safari paradise with diverse experiences. Millions of tourists come for game viewing, and you probably will too, unless your sole focus is mountain climbing or hardcore bird watching.
Nearly all Tanzanian destinations provide excellent opportunities for budget Tanzania safaris, with the only limitations being distances, especially for road travelers. The best places for Tanzania budget safari tours are in the northern circuit, where competition leads to numerous price offers and discounts. Let us plan your affordable Tanzania safari holiday. Contact us now for a quotation.
Budget Safari Tanzania – How to Plan & Save Money
Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro Crater, among others, are ideal budget safari destinations in Tanzania for game viewing and sightseeing.
They are home to a variety of mammals, birds, and reptiles, including lions, wildebeests, zebras, antelopes, giraffes, elephants, and buffaloes.
Serengeti National Park is famous for hosting the “wilderness world cup” every June to September when wildebeests and other mammals migrate to the Masai Mara in Kenya in search of greener pastures and freshwater.
It’s a time of survival of the fittest as predators hunt for their meals, and prey animals run for their lives.
Mountain hiking enthusiasts should head to Mount Kilimanjaro, the tallest mountain in Africa, offering panoramic views of three countries: Uganda, Tanzania, and Kenya.
Tanzania offers a range of activities like nature walks, photography, primate trekking, honeymoons, birding, cultural encounters with the Maasai people, city tours, and nightlife.
Budget-friendly Tips for your Tanzania safari
Here are some budget-friendly tips for your Tanzania safari:
Enjoy local cuisine from street vendors and local restaurants, offering nutritious and affordable options like roasted chicken, beef, and pork.
Purchase water, juice, and soda from local shops and supermarkets.
Explore the city and nearby attractions on foot or use affordable transportation options like motorcycles, special hires, or public transportation.
Consider camping to cut accommodation costs while maximizing your experience. You can rent tents or bring your own. Alternatively, budget lodges, guesthouses, hostels, and home-stays offer quality facilities and services.
Don’t miss the opportunity to visit Tanzania.
Your budget is enough for an unforgettable safari adventure.
TANZANIA SAFARI COST
Tanzania is known for its diversity in animal life, bird-life, and stunning landscapes, from the mighty Kilimanjaro to the Great Rift valley.
The cost of a Tanzania safari varies depending on various factors such as:
The duration of your safari
Your choice of accommodation
The season you plan to travel
The number of people in your safari group
The different national parks or game reserves you plan to visit during your Tanzania safari.
The cost of a safari can range from budget-friendly to luxury.
Budget Tanzania Safaris
The budget safaris typically involve basic accommodations such as budget safari lodges / tented camps, guesthouses, and campsites within national parks or outside the national parks.
This is best for those traveling on a tight budget and are only looking for the thrill and adventure that comes with exploring Tanzania’s national parks.
On average, a budget safari in Tanzania will cost $200 per person per day. The prices of the budget safari can start from around 150 US dollars to 300 US dollars per person per day.
Consider joining a budget group tour to get more out of your budget safari experience in Tanzania.
Mid-Range Tanzania Safaris
The mid-range Tanzania safaris include comfortable safari lodges and tented camps with more amenities than the budget options. They offer visitors comfortable and quality wildlife experiences without all the luxury.
On average, the prices can range from 300 US dollars to 700 US dollars per person per day. Some of the private safari tours or small-group safaris fall into the mid-range safaris.
Luxury Tanzania Safaris
The luxury Tanzania safaris offer high-end safari lodges and canvas tented camps with personalized experiences and services. The prices of a luxury safari can exceed 1,000 US dollars per person per day, sometimes reaching several thousand dollars.
Exclusive game reserves expeditions, private vehicles, private flight transfers, private concessions, personalized services, and more may be part of luxury safari experiences.
Additional Costs:
In addition to the daily Tanzania safari costs, consider other expenses for your entire travel such as visa costs, travel insurance costs, flights, national park entry fees, tips, vaccinations, and any activities you could add to enhance your experience like guided walking safaris or nature walks, hot air balloon safaris, or guided cultural tours.
Your Tanzania safari cost can also be influenced by the time of year you choose to travel; that is peak / high season travel (June to October) will be more expensive.
The above is just to give you an overview of the potential costs of the Tanzania safari.
TANZANIA SAFARI TOURS BUDGET – HOW MUCH DO YOU NEED TO BUDGET FOR A TANZANIA SAFARI?
The cost of a Tanzania safaris varies depending on a number of factors which make the Tanzania safari costs to vary from budget-friendly safaris, affordable safaris, mid-range safaris and high-end luxury safaris.
Averagely;
Tanzania Budget Safaris: Start from around $150 to $300 per person / day.
Tanzania Mid-Range Safaris: Typically range from $350 to $600 per person / day.
Tanzania Luxury Safaris: Can go beyond $1,500 per person / day depending on the level of luxury a visitor wants to experience in the wilderness.
There are a number of factors that can see the above prices of the Tanzania safari tours rise.
Main factors that influence the budget of Tanzania safaris
Duration of your Tanzania safari; The longer your safari is, the more expensive it will be and the shorter the safari, the cheaper it will be.
Choice of accommodation type; Budget-friendly accommodation is to a budget Tanzania safari and high-end accommodation is to a luxury Tanzania safari.
Season of travel; If you plan on traveling during the dry season (June to October) in Tanzania, which is also considered the peak season, then expect to spend more on your Tanzania safari. For a budget or affordable Tanzania safari, consider travelling in the low or off-peak season.
National parks you plan to visit; The popular and most visited national parks in Tanzania like Ngorongoro conservation area and Serengeti national park have a higher park entrance fee as compared to the less frequented national parks.
Safari type: Joining safari group tours means you will have a budget-friendly Tanzania safari and solo or private tours mean a luxury and expensive Tanzania safari.
Choice of transportation; Opting for flight transfers from one destination to another make your Tanzania safari expensive while opting for overland travel will make your Tanzania safari less expensive thus more affordable and environmentally friendly.
Additional costs that can affect the budget of your Tanzania safari include;
International flight costs
Visa costs
Insurance costs
Airport transfers
Tpis, souvenirs and gift shopping
Optional activities like guided walking safaris, birding safaris, hot air balloon trips, canoe or boat safaris and night game drives.
All in all, the budget of a Tanzania safari largely depends on your likes, tastes and preferences.
BACKPACKING IN TANZANIA
Tanzania is one of the best safari destinations in Africa and a backpacking safari in Tanzania can be an incredible adventure, offering the backpacker a range of landscapes, diverse wildlife and different cultural experiences and amazing beach holidays.
For the best backpacking experience in Tanzania, give yourself a minimum of a week (7 days) to be able to visit a good number of places on the inland and also check out the white sandy beaches of Zanzibar or go scuba diving in Mafia Island. The more days you plan for on your backpacking safari in Tanzania, the more fun and adventure and the more of Tanzania you will get to explore without having to go through the different places in a rush.
Places to visit while backpacking in Tanzania
Dar es Salaam, the largest and busiest city in Tanzania. While here, you can visit the museums and markets, do some shopping.
The tropical island of Zanzibar, a must visit during your backpacking safari for a perfect beach holiday. There is a lot to do and see in Zanzibar with a tour of the famous Stone town not to be missed.
Mafia Island, another tropical island in Tanzania that is worth the visit. Its marine life is worth the marvel. Go snorkeling, scuba diving or swim with the whale sharks while on the island. You can fly to the island or take a ferry from Dar es Salaam.
Pemba island, this is the least visited island in Tanzania but so much worth the visit.
Arusha, the safari gateway to Tanzania’s Northern safari circuit which includes the famous parks of Serengeti national park, Lake Manyara, Ngorongoro conservation area, Kilimanjaro Mountain national and Tarangire national park among others. While in Arusha, you can visit the cultural heritage center.
Arusha national park
Mto wa Mbu town, a cultural vibrant town in Northern Tanzania
Ngorongoro conservation area, Serengeti national park, Tarangire national park and Lake Manyara
Visit lakes like Lake Natron, Eyasi and Lake Victoria
Mkomazi national park
Visit the Western part of Tanzania like the Mahale mountains national park and Gombe Stream national park.
Maasai villages, Hadzabe people and the Datoga people
Mikumi national park, Udzungwa mountains and Ruaha national park
What to consider when planning a backpacking trip in Tanzania
Number of days you plan to stay in Tanzania. Remember, the more days you have, the better.
Check out the weather conditions of Tanzania and plan your trip accordingly putting in mind the means of transport you plan to use and the activities you want to engage in.
Pack enough clothing for all weather conditions
Personal first aid kit
Toiletries, wet wipes, sunscreen and insect repellents
Any necessary camping equipment if you plan to camp out some nights.
Hydration bottles and water treatment supplies or always make sure you buy bottled mineral water,
Guide map of Tanzania
Camera to capture all the moments and memories. Don’t forget extra batteries
Carry some local currency with you when visiting remote places in Tanzania. They will be very helpful. US dollars are acceptable in urban centers and most tourist places.
If you can and possibly have limited time, rent a car to drive yourself around, otherwise public transport is readily available and inexpensive.
For accommodation, budget hotels, guesthouses and hostels are available in cities and major towns and camping is available too.
To save up on more money, cook your own food or eat like the locals.
Book your transportation early as tickets are much cheaper, that is your air ticket or bus ticket.
Kiswahili is the official language in Tanzania, nonetheless, English is widely spoken in Tanzania.
Tanzanians are welcoming and friendly people, but do respect their traditions, customs and privacy especially when taking pictures, first get their consent.
Asante, Kiswahili word for “thank you”
Enjoy your backpacking trip in Tanzania.
TOP 5 TANZANIA SAFARI DESTINATIONS FOR BUDGET SAFARIS
Tanzania is renowned for its stunning wildlife and landscapes, and there are several budget-friendly safari destinations that offer a fantastic experience without breaking the bank.
Listed below are five top Tanzania safari destinations for budget Tanzania safaris:
Tarangire National Park
Known for its large herds of elephants and baobab trees, Tarangire National Park is a budget-friendly alternative to more popular parks in Tanzania’s North Tourism circuit like Serengeti national park and Ngorongoro Conservation area. It offers diverse wildlife and excellent birding opportunities.
Activities in Tarangire national park include:
Game drives
Night game drives
Bird watching safaris
Nature walks (guided)
Hot air balloon safaris
Cultural tours
Lake Manyara National Park
Famous for its tree-climbing lions, Lake Manyara National Park is a compact park that provides a great safari experience at a lower cost. Covered mostly by the famous Lake Manyara which supports the park’s inhabitants, the park is home to a variety of bird species, making it a haven for birdwatchers.
Activities in Tarangire national park include:
Game drives
Birding safaris
Guided walking safaris
Canoeing on Lake Manyara
Tree-top walk way
Community visits
Mikumi National Park:
Mikumi National Park is easily accessible to visitors from Dar es Salaam, a major port city on Tanzania’s coast. It offers a variety of wildlife, including lions, elephants, and giraffes, and is an excellent option for those looking for a more economical safari option.
Activities in Mikumi national park include:
Game drives
Guided nature walks
Camping
Picnicking
Night game drives
Bid watching
Cultural tours
Ngorongoro Conservation Area
Ngorongoro conservation area is a prime destination in Tanzania which can also be visited on a budget safari. Just carry your camping equipment and enjoy the scenic Ngorongoro highlands.
Activities in Ngorongoro conservation area include:
Game drives
Maasai community tours
Bird watching
Guided nature walks
Hiking
Camping
Serengeti national park
Experience the famous Serengeti national park on a budget camping safari. You can visit Serengeti national park to experience this vast wilderness teeming with animals and beautiful birds and get to witness the migration while camping.
Activities in Ngorongoro conservation area include:
Game drives
Bird watching
Guided nature walks
Cultural tours
Camping
LAKE MANYARA BUDGET SAFARIS
Lake Manyara national park is one of the famous national parks mostly visited in Tanzania with a diverse habitat that supports a rich wildlife including numerous pink and lesser flamingoes that always flock Lake Manyara which covers about two-thirds of the entire park area.
Below are some general tips and steps you can consider when planning a budget safari to Lake Manyara national park.
Research Tour Operators: Look for reputable local Tanzania tour operators that offer budget-friendly packages to Lake Manyara national park. The reputable tour operators will help you plan for your safari and make sure you have the best experience even on a tight budget.
DIY Safari: If you’re adventurous and on a tight budget, consider planning a do-it-yourself budget safari to Lake Manyara national park. You can rent a vehicle, explore the park on your own and arrange accommodation separately, preferably camping at a public campsite. However, be sure to research and adhere to park rules, regulations and safety guidelines and check for the current entrance fees to Lake Manyara National Park and plan for this expense in your budget.
Join Group Tours: Joining a budget group safari is most certainly cost-effective if you are planning to go on a budget safari to Lake Manyara national park. Group tours allow you to share costs with other travelers like fuel and transportation costs thus reducing the safari expenses.
Where to stay: Choose budget-friendly accommodations in the nearby towns or villages. Many lodges, campsites, and guesthouses offer more affordable options compared to luxury resorts. The best option will be camping to further reduce your safari costs.
How to get to Lake Manyara: Consider overland transportation options, such as shared vans or buses, to get to Lake Manyara national park. These options may be more economical than private transfers for your budget safari.
Budget safari timing: Travel during the low (off-peak) seasons if possible. Rates for safaris and accommodation are lower during this time and the park will be lush and vibrant because of the rains offering beautiful photography scenes.
Negotiate and Compare package prices: Obtain quotes from multiple tour operators and compare them to ensure you’re getting the best value for your budget safari to Lake Manyara and don’t hesitate to negotiate prices with your chosen local tour operator.
Meals: Look for accommodation options that include meals in their packages. This can help you save on food expenses during your stay.
Remember to check for any travel advisories, entry requirements and updated pricing before planning your Lake Manyara budget safari. It’s also advisable to stay informed about any changes or developments in the region. You can visit Lake Manyara national park any time of the year avoiding the months of April and May which are characterized by long heavy rains.
MOUNT KILIMANJARO BUDGET TOURS
Mount Kilimanjaro, located in Tanzania, is the highest peak in Africa and a popular destination for trekkers and climbers from around the world as it is a member of the Seven summits. Climbing Mountain Kilimanjaro on a budget will depend on the route you choose, the number of days you spend on the mountain and number of people in the climbing group.
If you’re looking for budget tours to Mount Kilimanjaro, there are a few things you need to put into consideration:
Choose reputable Tour Operators: Check online reviews, testimonials, and ratings to ensure the reliability and quality of the tour operator or Kilimanjaro climbing company. The right one will make sure you have the best experience on the mountain and will provide you with the best experience climbing guides and support crew.
Compare Mt. Kilimanjaro climbing costs: A Kilimanjaro climbing budget package will range between $1,500 to 2,000 per person per climb, therefore get quotes from multiple tour operators and compare the prices, inclusions covered by the cost and reviews before making a decision. Be cautious about extremely low prices, as they may indicate a lack of safety measures or substandard mountain climbing services.
Package cost inclusions and exclusions: Take time to find out what is included and not included in the tour package so that you can be aware of any additional costs.
Join an open Mt Kilimanjaro climbing group: Group tours allow the costs to be distributed among participants, making it more affordable for individuals. In this way, you will be able to get better quality equipment at reasonable and affordable costs to fit in your tight budget.
Choose the Right Kilimanjaro Route: There are several routes up Kilimanjaro, each with its own characteristics and difficulty levels. The Marangu route is considered more budget-friendly compared to other routes like Machame or Lemosho. It is the only route on the mountain that has permanent hut accommodations, so it is not necessary for you to carry other camping equipment like sleeping bags and all.
When to go: For a Kilimanjaro Mountain budget tour, consider traveling during the shoulder seasons for potentially lower prices and less crowded climbing routes.
Accommodation before the climb and after: There are a number of affordable accommodation facilities in towns near Kilimanjaro like hostels or guest houses that will fit within your budget.
Use public transport: To further reduce your costs, take a bus shuttle from the airport to your accommodation and back rather than hiring a private airport taxi.
Book with a local Kilimanjaro trekking company: These offer lower competitive prices than international companies.
Opt for Kilimanjaro day trips: In case you find the Mount Kilimanjaro budget tour doesn’t fit in your budget but you would really like to experience the thrill of Mount Kilimanjaro, then your best option is to take on the Kilimanjaro day trips that are also quit impressive and scenic. You do not need any hiking gear or camping equipment, just a pair of comfortable hiking boots / shoes, a day backpack with water and some snacks and energy bars.
Pack efficiently: Layered clothing, hydration bottle, sleeping bag, personal first aid kit, wet wipes, hand sanitizer, sunscreen, sun glasses, head sock, personal toiletries among other things.
Remember that climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is a challenging endeavor, and safety should always be a priority. Even on a budget tour, ensure that the operator provides experienced guides, proper equipment, and adheres to safety standards. Always check the latest reviews and gather as much information as possible before making a decision.
NGORONGORO BUDGET SAFARIS
Ngorongoro Conservation Area in Tanzania is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular destination for safaris famously known for the Ngorongoro crater, the world’s largest intact caldera teeming with about 30,000 animals and over 500 bird species.
If you’re looking for budget-friendly safari to Ngorongoro conservation area, below are some considerations to keep in mind:
Use Local Tanzania Tour Operators: Consider using local Tanzanian tour operators, as they may offer more affordable rates for your budget safari to Ngorongoro. Do some research to ensure the tour operator is reputable and provides a good service and experience.
Camping Safaris: Consider joining a camping safari where you stay in basic tents. Camping safaris are generally more budget-friendly and will reduce the cost of your safari to Ngorongoro conservation area. Discuss with your local Tanzania tour operator for camping safari options in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. They often provide affordable packages that include camping equipment, meals, and game drives.
Budget Accommodations: Go for budget accommodations on the outskirts of Ngorongoro, such as basic lodges or guesthouses in Karatu or Ndutu area.
Group Tours: Joining a group tour can help reduce your Ngorongoro budget safari costs as expenses are shared among a larger number of participants like transport and fuel costs. Look for budget-friendly group safari packages that include Ngorongoro as part of their itinerary.
Off-Peak Travel: Consider traveling during the low season when tours and accommodation costs are lower and you may also experience fewer crowds giving a private safari feel. This off-peak season is during the wet season so pack accordingly, that is warm clothing and waterproof ponchos or raincoats.
Consider a Self-Drive Safari: If you’re comfortable driving in Tanzania, you might consider a self-drive safari. Renting a vehicle and driving yourself can be a cost-effective way to explore the Ngorongoro Conservation Area.
Compare Budget Packages: Contact different local tour operators and compare their budget safari packages for Ngorongoro conservation area. Look for inclusions such as accommodation, meals, park fees and the number of game drives.
Be Flexible: You should be flexible with your travel dates especially if you are looking to join a group budget safari to Ngorongoro as they are always scheduled which can lead to significant safari cost savings.
Remember to prioritize safety and the quality of your experience when selecting a Ngorongoro budget safari. Research thoroughly, read reviews, and communicate with your chosen local tour operator to ensure they meet your expectations. Always check what is included in the package cost to avoid any unexpected costs during your safari.
SERENGETI BUDGET SAFARIS
Serengeti Budget Safaris typically refer to affordable and cost-effective safari options in the Serengeti National Park, which is located in Tanzania. The Serengeti is renowned for its vast savannahs, diverse wildlife, and the spectacular Great Wildlife Migration, where millions of wildebeest and other animals (zebras, gazelles, elands) move across the plains following the rains in search of food and water enough for all the migrating animals.
When opting for a budget safari in the Serengeti, travelers often look for tour operators or safari companies that offer more economical packages without compromising the essential safari experience.
Below are some general features of Serengeti national park Budget Safaris
Tour Guide Services: Even in budget safaris, experienced guides are typically included. These guides are knowledgeable about the wildlife and terrain, enhancing the overall safari experience. They will help you spot the animals and birds while out in the wild.
Accommodations: Budget safaris usually include more basic accommodations such as tented camps or budget lodges. Serengeti national park has about 9 public campsites, making accommodation for those on a budget safari to Serengeti readily available. The budget lodges in Serengeti provide a comfortable stay without the luxury amenities that might be offered in higher-priced accommodations and also a number of budget accommodations can be found on the outskirts of the park.
Meals: Meals on a budget Serengeti safari might be simpler, but they will still offer a variety of local and international dishes and the cost of meals is often included in budget safari packages.
Transportation: Budget safaris to Serengeti national park will mostly involve the use of shared transportation means or a shared travel vehicle where you will be travelling with other visitors on the same budget group tour. These can be in the form of minivans or open-roof safari vehicles.
Budget Group Tours: Budget safaris often involve group tours, which can help reduce overall costs through shared driver allowance cost, transport costs and fuel. Travelers share the experience with others, making it a social and economic choice.
Duration of the budget safari: Serengeti budget safaris may offer shorter safari durations to keep costs down, but they still aim to cover key areas of Serengeti national park to provide a fulfilling wildlife experience for the visitors.
Serengeti Budget safari cost: The budget safari will cost you between 200-280 US dollars per day.
Reading reviews, checking credentials, and understanding the specific details of what is included in the budget safari package are crucial steps when planning a budget safari to the famous Serengeti national park in Tanzania.
TARANGIRE BUDGET SAFARIS
Tarangire national park is one of the tourist destinations in the North safari circuit of Tanzania but is not as frequently visited as Serengeti and Ngorongoro, however it is a unique park with amazing landscapes and interesting wildlife including a large population of African Elephants.
If you’re looking for budget safaris in Tarangire, here are some general tips to help you plan for the best wildlife experience in Tarangire:
Travel during the low season: Safari prices can vary based on the time of year. Consider traveling during the off-peak season for your Tarangire national park budget safari when prices are lower and you might still have the best wildlife experience.
Join Group Tours: These group tours allow you to share expenses such as tour vehicle rentals, guide fees and fuel with other participants.
Employ services of a local tour operator: Look for reputable local safari operators that offer budget-friendly options to Tarangire national park for competitive prices. Check reviews and testimonials from previous travelers to ensure the quality of their services and credibility.
Compare budget safari prices: Request for package quotes from multiple tour operators and compare their prices. Keep in mind that the cheapest option might not always be the best, so consider the overall value and services included in the cost of the package.
Accommodations: Choose budget accommodations such as tented camps or budget lodges. The best accommodation for your Tarangire budget safari is camping for it is more pocket friendly and an adventurous option sleeping out in the open wilderness under the starry skies.
Flexible Itinerary: If you have flexibility in your schedule, inquire about last-minute deals or discounted packages. Some operators may offer reduced prices for trips booked on short notice.
Look out for packaged deals: Some operators offer packaged deals that include accommodation, meals, park fees, and transportation. These packages can sometimes be more cost-effective than booking each component separately.
Pack according: Planning on a camping budget safari to Tarangire national park, make sure you pack all the essentials for a comfortable camping experience like a sleeping bag, self-catering equipment or you can decide to hire the camping equipment once you are in Tanzania. Your tour operator can help you find what you need.
Always make sure to inquire about what is included in the safari package, such as park fees, transportation, accommodation, meals, and the services of a knowledgeable guide. Additionally, verify the operator’s reputation to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. The budget safari in Tarangire national park can cost anywhere from 150 US dollars per day.
Packing List of Budget Tanzania Safaris
Packing for a Tanzania safari requires careful consideration to ensure you have everything you need for a comfortable and enjoyable Tanzania safari experience.
Here’s a general packing list to help you prepare for your Budget Tanzania safari:
Clothing
Pack neutral colored clothing, that is browns, khaki, tan or darker shades of green.
Lightweight, long-sleeved shirts and pants to protect you from sunburns and insects.
T-shirts and shorts for warmer days.
Comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots. Take a walk in them while at home to rule out the possibility of discomfort.
Sandals / flip-flops or light sneakers for relaxing at the safari camp / lodge.
Comfortable breathable socks.
Hat with a wide brim to shield your face and neck from the sun.
Swimsuit as some lodges have swimming pools and for your beach holiday in Zanzibar.
Lightweight rain jacket or poncho for unexpected rain.
Safari Gear
Binoculars for wildlife viewing.
Camera with extra batteries and memory cards.
Lightweight daypack for carrying essentials during game drives and for time away from your room.
Hydration pack or reusable water bottle.
Power bank for charging electronic devices.
Pocketknife for campers
Flashlight or headlamp with extra batteries for night excursions especially if you are going for a Mount Kilimanjaro or Mount Meru climbing adventure.
Personal Items
Prescription medications and a basic personal first aid kit.
Insect repellent with DEET or another effective ingredient.
Sunscreen with a high SPF.
Lip balm with UV protection.
Personal toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, lotion etc.).
Wet wipes or hand sanitizer.
Documents and Money
Passport and visa (if required).
Travel insurance documents.
Vaccination certificates, if necessary, especially for yellow fever incase you are passing through or coming from endemic zones.
Cash for tips and small purchases (some places may not accept credit cards like in local markets).
Miscellaneous
Travel adapter for charging devices.
Lightweight, quick-dry towel.
Bin liners for dirty or wet clothes.
Snacks and refillable water bottle.
Books or guides on local fauna and flora.
Optional
Neck pillow for long drives between locations.
Scarf or bandana for dust protection.
Portable umbrella for shade.
It’s important to note that safari lodges and camps often have laundry services, so you may not need to pack a lot of clothing. Check with your specific tour operator for any additional items or specific recommendations based on the time of year and the areas you’ll be visiting. Additionally, consider the baggage weight restrictions of your airline if you’re flying between safari destinations.
BEST TIME TO HAVE BUDGET SAFARIS IN TANZANIA
The best time for budget safaris in Tanzania is during the off-peak tourism season which is usually during the wet season. Tanzania’s wet season is divided into 2, that is the short rains of November to December and the long heavy rains of March to May.
Considerations for your budget safari in Tanzania
Low Season (April – May):
This period is considered the low season because of the long heavy rains which in most cases disrupt the visitor’s schedule. While it might not be the ideal time for wildlife viewing because animals disperse to the different available water sources spread across the national parks, it can be a good time for budget safaris as prices for accommodations and tours tend to be lower since the traffic of the tourists visiting the parks during these months is low.
Shoulder Season (January – February):
The months of January and February are a short dry spell / break between the 2 rainy seasons in Tanzania. By this time, the high rates of the festive season have dropped as most visitors have gone back to their countries or other destinations. Expect lush green vibrant plains and excellent wildlife viewing as the vegetation thins out.
Green Season (November – May):
This is the wet or green season, and it’s considered low season for tourism. While the landscapes are lush and vibrant, wildlife is more dispersed, and some areas may become inaccessible due to flooding. Prices are generally lower during this time. Keep in mind that November and early December can be a bit unpredictable in terms of rainfall.
If you’re looking for budget-friendly options, consider traveling during the wet / low seasons. Keep in mind that wildlife viewing might not be as optimal during the low season, but you can still have a rewarding safari experience while enjoying lower prices and fewer tourist crowds in the national parks or game reserves.
Recommendations to make sure you enjoy a budget safari in Tanzania; Join a travel group, book a camping safari, go on a self-drive camping safari and lastly but not least, camp outside the national parks to spend a little less more.
TOP 10 TANZANIA BUDGET SAFARI LODGES
Tanzania is a top tourist destination in East Africa featuring great nature wonders like the Ngorongoro crater, the annual wildebeest migration and the Kilimanjaro Mountain.
It also features as a budget-friendly tourist destination that travelers can visit and still have the best safari and wildlife experience staying in any of its budget-friendly safari lodges or safari camps.
We list for you our top 10 budget friendly safari lodges in Tanzania which offer comfortable stays, basic amenities and great wildlife experiences:
Serengeti Kati Kati Tented Camp: Located in the heart of the Serengeti, this camp offers a budget-friendly option with comfortable tents and great wildlife viewing opportunities for the central region of Serengeti always teems with a number of different animals supported by the Seronera River.
Twiga Campsite and Lodge: Situated near Arusha, the base for most safaris in Tanzania, Twiga provides budget accommodation for those looking to explore the northern safari circuit parks. It is easily accessible and provides a good base for your safaris to the national parks in North Tanzania like Tarangire national park, Lake Manyara, Serengeti national park, Ngorongoro and Arusha national park.
Panorama Safari Camp: This budget camp is situated in Tarangire National Park, offering you opportunities to explore the unique less frequented park that has great wildlife sightings. Panorama safari camp offers affordable accommodation to budget travelers with basic amenities.
Budget Safari Lodge: Located in Karatu within the vast Ngorongoro conservation area, this lodge is known for its affordability and proximity to the Ngorongoro Crater which you can explore on a rewarding morning game drive. The lodge is a good budget-friendly accommodation to stay if you wish to experience the calving season of the wildebeest migration.
Wildlife Camp Tanzania: Located in the Ruaha National Park, an unspoiled vast wilderness and is known for its budget-friendly rates. Explore the impressive Ruaha national park staying at Wildlife camp.
Arusha Backpackers Hotel: An affordable option in Arusha, suitable for travelers looking for budget-friendly accommodation before or after their Tanzania safari.
Ziwa Bush Lodge: Looking to explore the southern Tanzania national parks, Ziwa Bush lodge found in Mikumi National Park, offers budget-friendly options for a comfortable stay while you enjoy the less crowded stunning park.
Mara River Camp: Located near the Mara River in the Serengeti, this camp provides a budget-friendly option for exploring the wildlife-rich region and a good spot for experiencing the great wildebeest migration without spending much.
Morona Hill Lodge: Looking for a budget-friendly hiking expedition, stay at Morona hill lodge located in the Udzungwa Mountains in South Tanzania west of Nyerere national park. You get to explore the vibrant nature and animal life on guided hiking tours in Udzungwa Mountains.
Tented Camp Lake Manyara: The budget-friendly camp is located suitably near Lake Manyara, providing an affordable base for those exploring the surrounding areas like Mto wa Mbu town, Lake Tarangire national park and Lake Manyara national park itself.
The above mentioned are just a few of the budget-friendly safari lodges in Tanzania that you should look out for when planning your budget safari to Tanzania.
