Safari Detail
Northern Circuit Budget Safari
Experience Tanzania's iconic wildlife destinations on this affordable camping safari perfect for budget-conscious travelers.
Highlights
What makes this itinerary special
A focused route built around wildlife density, practical pacing, and lodge quality.
Budget-friendly camping experience
Visit three major national parks
Witness Big Five wildlife
Ngorongoro Crater exploration
Authentic safari adventure
Itinerary
Day-by-day safari flow
Day 1: Arusha to Tarangire National Park
Early morning departure from Arusha to Tarangire National Park. Full day game drive with picnic lunch. Famous for large elephant herds and baobab trees. Evening arrival at public campsite.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Stay: Public Campsite Tarangire
Day 2: Tarangire to Serengeti via Ngorongoro
After breakfast, travel through Ngorongoro Conservation Area to Serengeti. Game viewing en route. Afternoon game drive in Serengeti. Overnight at public campsite in Seronera area.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Stay: Seronera Public Campsite
Day 3: Full Day Serengeti National Park
Full day exploring the vast Serengeti plains. Early morning and late afternoon game drives when animals are most active. Picnic lunch in the bush. Search for predators and witness the incredible wildlife.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Stay: Seronera Public Campsite
Day 4: Serengeti to Ngorongoro
Morning game drive in Serengeti as you head towards Ngorongoro. Stop at Olduvai Gorge museum. Arrive at Simba Campsite on the crater rim in time for sunset views.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Stay: Simba Public Campsite
Day 5: Ngorongoro Crater to Arusha
Early descent into the crater for 5-6 hours of game viewing. Excellent opportunities to spot the Big Five. Picnic lunch on the crater floor. Afternoon ascent and drive back to Arusha, arriving early evening.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Stay: N/A
Seasonality
Best time to travel
Dry Season
June to October
- Best game viewing conditions
- Easier camping with dry weather
- Wildlife concentrated around water
- Migration in northern Serengeti
Green Season
November to May
- Lower prices
- Fewer tourists
- Calving season January-February
- Beautiful green landscapes
Accommodation
Where you stay
Public Campsites
All nights
Basic but well-maintained public campsites within the parks. Toilet and shower facilities available. Your team sets up camp and prepares meals.
Included vs Excluded
Know exactly what is covered
Included
- Transport in 4x4 safari vehicle
- Professional guide
- All park fees
- Camping equipment (tents, sleeping mats)
- Camp cook and meals as indicated
- Drinking water
- Flying Doctors insurance
Excluded
- Accommodation in Arusha
- Sleeping bag rental ($15)
- Tips for guide and cook
- Alcoholic beverages
- Personal expenses
- Travel insurance
- Visa fees
Preparation
Packing and safety notes
Clothing
- Light, neutral-colored clothing
- Warm jacket for mornings
- Long pants and long sleeves
- Comfortable shoes
- Hat and sunglasses
Equipment
- Sleeping bag (can be rented)
- Flashlight/headlamp
- Camera and binoculars
- Water bottle
- Small backpack
Health
- Sunscreen and lip balm
- Insect repellent
- Personal medications
- Hand sanitizer
- Wet wipes
Vaccinations
- Yellow fever certificate required
- Malaria prophylaxis recommended
- Hepatitis A advised
- Standard vaccinations
Safety
- Stay within camp boundaries at night
- Never approach wildlife
- Follow guide instructions
- Keep tent zipped at all times
Insurance
- Travel insurance recommended
- AMREF Flying Doctors included
- Medical coverage advised