Affordable Tanzania safari itinerary

A Tanzania safari can be an extraordinary adventure without breaking the bank. With the right planning and guidance, you can experience the beauty of Tanzania’s iconic national parks and diverse wildlife without compromising on quality. Future African Safari offers affordable options that provide excellent value for money while still delivering a truly memorable experience.

Day 1: Arrival in Arusha

Your Tanzania safari adventure begins upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport. Arusha, known as the “safari capital” of Tanzania, is a perfect starting point for your journey. After you’re met by your guide, transfer to your budget-friendly accommodation in Arusha for an overnight stay.

If time permits, take a short tour around Arusha to explore the vibrant city, local markets, and cultural sites. Enjoy the relaxed atmosphere while preparing for your upcoming safari adventure.

Day 2: Arusha to Tarangire National Park

After breakfast, head to Tarangire National Park, which is just a few hours away from Arusha. Known for its large herds of elephants, stunning baobab trees, and diverse wildlife, Tarangire is a budget-friendly option for those seeking an authentic safari experience.

Spend the day exploring the park with a game drive, keeping an eye out for the park’s famous elephants, lions, leopards, and a variety of bird species. Tarangire is less crowded than some other parks in Tanzania, providing a peaceful, immersive experience.

Accommodation: Choose from mid-range lodges or campsites that offer comfort and affordability, such as Maramboi Tented Camp or Tarangire Safari Lodge, where you can enjoy scenic views and local cuisine.

Day 3: Tarangire to Serengeti National Park

The next stop on your affordable Tanzania safari itinerary is Serengeti National Park, one of the most famous wildlife destinations in the world. Serengeti is renowned for its vast savannahs, spectacular wildlife sightings, and the annual wildebeest migration.

A long drive will take you through the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, where you can stop at viewpoints to admire the stunning landscape. After arrival at Serengeti, enjoy a late afternoon game drive to spot wildlife, including the Big Five (lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhinoceros).

Accommodation: Opt for budget-friendly options like Seronera Campsite or Seronera Wildlife Lodge, which offer basic amenities and great access to the Serengeti’s rich wildlife.

Day 4: Full Day Safari in Serengeti

Today is dedicated to exploring the endless plains of the Serengeti. With a packed lunch, spend the day on a game drive through the park, encountering various animal species and the chance to witness the iconic predator-prey dynamics of Africa’s wildlife. If you visit during the wildebeest migration, you might be able to witness one of the most extraordinary wildlife spectacles on earth.

In the late afternoon, return to your lodge or campsite for dinner and relaxation. After dinner, enjoy stargazing under the African sky.

Day 5: Serengeti to Ngorongoro Crater

On your final safari day, head to Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that’s home to an incredibly diverse range of wildlife. The Crater is often referred to as “Africa’s Garden of Eden” due to its stunning landscape and abundance of animals. It’s one of the best places to see the Big Five in a single day.

Descend into the crater floor and embark on a game drive, where you can spot lions, elephants, zebras, wildebeests, and flamingos at the crater’s soda lake. The Ngorongoro Crater is also a great spot for bird watching, with more than 500 species recorded.

Accommodation: Budget accommodations like Ngorongoro Simba Campsite or Ngorongoro Wildlife Lodge provide excellent value, offering convenient access to the crater while maintaining affordability.

Day 6: Ngorongoro to Arusha

After your final safari in Ngorongoro, return to Arusha for your last night in Tanzania. Depending on your departure time, you can explore Arusha city or relax at your accommodation before your flight. If time allows, visit a local craft market or enjoy a coffee at one of the many cafés in Arusha before your transfer to the airport for your departure.

Tips for an Affordable Tanzania Safari:

• Travel During the Low Season: Visit Tanzania during the shoulder or low season (April to early June or November) to take advantage of lower prices and fewer crowds.
• Opt for Budget Accommodation: Staying in campsites or basic lodges is a great way to save money while still experiencing comfort and the safari adventure.
• Group Safaris: Join a group safari to share the costs of transportation, park fees, and guides, reducing your overall expenses.
• Public Transportation: Instead of private transfers, consider using public transport for parts of the journey to save money.
• Travel Light: Some budget accommodations or safaris may have limited space, so packing light will help you avoid extra baggage fees.