top of page
A female Lion lying on a tree

Tanzania Budget Safari Tours

Tanzania stands as Africa’s ultimate safari destination, with nearly one-quarter of its land protected within national parks and reserves. Among these are four UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the world-renowned Serengeti National Park, the stunning Ngorongoro Crater, the majestic Mount Kilimanjaro, and the vast Nyerere National Park (formerly Selous Game Reserve). Boasting 20% of Africa’s large mammals, Tanzania offers three main safari circuits. The Northern Circuit is most popular for affordable safaris, featuring Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Tarangire, Lake Manyara, and Arusha National Parks. After your adventure, unwind in Zanzibar, the idyllic spice island, known for its white-sand beaches, snorkeling, and turquoise waters.

Compare 12 Tanzania Budget Tours

Image by Charl Durand

$ 1,000 pp (USD)

Tanzania: Shared tour (max 6 people per group) Budget Camping

You Visit: Arusha (Start), Tarangire, Central Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Manyara, Arusha (End)

1-12 results: “Rankings depend on a combination of performance, relevance, and payment levels.”

  • Whatsapp
  • Email
  • Itinerary icon
  • TripAdvisor

Related Experiences

 • Tanzania Honeymoon Safaris

 • One Day Safaris from Arusha

 • Serengeti Safari Holidays

 • Tanzania Family Safari Tours

 • 2 Day Safaris from Zanzibar

 • Ngorongoro Crater Safari Tours

 • 2 Day Safaris from Dar es Salaam

 • 5 Day Safaris

 • Tanzania Camping Safaris

 • Northern Tanzania Safari Packages

Innocent Alfey profile picture

"Inno’s vision for sustainability ensures that every adventure not only uplifts the spirit but also honors and preserves the soul of Tanzania."

Innocent Alfey

Answered by

ℹ️ 5 Questions About Budget Safari in Tanzania

Answered by

1

2

3

4

5

What is a Tanzania Budget Safari?

A Tanzania budget safari offers an affordable way to explore iconic parks like Serengeti, Ngorongoro, and Tarangire without compromising the adventure. Guests stay in shared or basic lodges, tents, or campsites while enjoying guided game drives. It’s ideal for travelers who want an authentic wildlife experience at a lower cost, with all essentials included.

When is the Best Time to Go?

The best time for a Tanzania budget safari is during the dry season, from June to October. Wildlife gathers around water sources, making game viewing excellent. The Great Migration in Serengeti also peaks during this period. For lower prices, consider the green season (March–May) when landscapes are lush, and fewer tourists visit.

What Parks are Included in Budget Safaris?

Most Tanzania budget safaris focus on the Northern Circuit—home to Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Crater, Lake Manyara, and Tarangire. These destinations offer incredible wildlife diversity and scenic beauty. Some tours may also include Arusha National Park or extend to southern areas like Mikumi or Nyerere National Park for a more off-the-beaten-path experience.

What Type of Accommodation is Provided?

Budget safaris in Tanzania typically include public campsites or basic tented camps with shared facilities. Travelers sleep in sturdy tents or small lodges, often near national parks. Despite the simplicity, most camps offer hearty meals, comfortable bedding, and guided experiences. It’s an affordable yet authentic way to immerse in Tanzania’s natural wilderness.

Why Choose a Budget Safari?

A Tanzania budget safari lets you experience world-class wildlife destinations without breaking the bank. You’ll enjoy guided tours, camping under the stars, and close encounters with the Big Five. It’s perfect for adventurers, backpackers, and small groups seeking value for money, authentic local experiences, and unforgettable memories across Tanzania’s iconic landscapes.

Innocent Alfey profile picture

Innocent Alfey

💡 Top Tips for Tanzania Budget Safaris

A Tourist vehicle interion side with Travelers in a Group during the safari

Travelers in a group during a game drive safari

1: Join a Group Safari

For travelers seeking affordability and adventure, joining a shared group safari is the best choice. You’ll share transport, guides, and park entry fees, which significantly reduces the overall cost. It’s also a great opportunity to meet like-minded travelers and enjoy Tanzania’s wildlife together while keeping your safari experience exciting, social, and cost-effective.

2: Choose Camping Safaris

Camping safaris are ideal for budget-conscious travelers who want to experience Tanzania’s wilderness up close. Public and semi-luxury camping options are available, offering basic yet comfortable amenities. Sleeping under the stars surrounded by nature enhances the adventure while keeping costs low. It’s one of the most rewarding and authentic ways to explore Tanzania’s national parks.

A Pinched tent with chairs in a Camping Ground

A Pinched tent with chairs in a Camping Ground

Gazelle roaming in Serengeti plains

Gazelle in the Serengeti Plains

3: Book Early for Best Deals

To secure affordable safari packages, book your trip several months in advance. Early bookings often come with discounts and better accommodation choices. Budget-friendly tours, especially group safaris, fill up quickly during the high season. Planning ahead allows you to compare operators, customize itineraries, and lock in lower prices before rates rise closer to departure.

4: Pack Smart and Light

Packing efficiently saves time, space, and money on your Tanzania safari. Bring essentials like insect repellent, sunscreen, headlamp, refillable water bottle, and warm clothes for cool nights. Avoid overpacking—light luggage makes travel between parks easier. Smart packing ensures comfort and convenience while helping you stay prepared for Tanzania’s diverse climates and rugged safari conditions.

Tanzania Safari Packing List

Tanzania Safari Packing List

Two Leopards on a tree

Two Leopards on a top of atree

5: Respect Park Rules

Following park regulations keeps both travelers and wildlife safe. Avoid feeding animals, stay inside vehicles during game drives, and never litter. Respecting rules preserves Tanzania’s fragile ecosystem for future visitors. Responsible tourism ensures a more meaningful experience while supporting conservation efforts that protect animals and habitats essential to the country’s thriving safari tourism industry.

6: Try Local Meals

Eating at local restaurants or camp kitchens helps reduce costs while offering a true taste of Tanzania. Dishes like ugali, nyama choma, and pilau are delicious and affordable. Dining locally supports small businesses and enhances cultural immersion. You’ll enjoy fresh, flavorful food prepared by locals, making your budget safari both economical and authentic.

Tanzania's Local Meals

Tanzania's Local Meals

Our Reviews

0x0_edited.png

Safari Roam has 5 Star Reviews on TripAdvisor

default-avatar-2020-42.jpg

Bakari, the best Guide 

Holger B / Aug 2025

3-Day-Safari, Serengeti and Ngorongoro: We had a lot of fun with our guide Bakari. He knew anything about the animals, found the best spots and showed us the beautiful sunrise and also sunset in the serengeti...

Read Review

TripAdvisor-Logo.png
default-avatar-2020-27.jpg

An Amazing Experience

Vacation 61974955803  / Dec 2024

From the first moment I contacted Gadiel the truth that super attentive and very resolute at all times. In each accommodation we made things much easier and the safari spectacular!...

Read Review

TripAdvisor-Logo.png
default-avatar-2020-37.jpg

Top notch

Thundercatgo / Oct 2024

Two 18yr olds had a superb trip to climb Kilimanjaro and then go on safari. Gadiel was superb organising everything. We felt very confident entrusting our boys with him and his team...

Read Review

TripAdvisor-Logo.png
65411d_673e38c9181c489eb98c6299d7bb15e7~mv2.avif

🌍 "Ready to

start planning your next

great journey?"

🚀 "Your adventure, your way—send us your ideas and receive a tailor-made itinerary in 2 hours."

bottom of page