Tanzania Camping Safari: An Authentic and Affordable Adventure
Engage on an unforgettable Tanzania camping safari and experience the raw beauty of nature firsthand. Our budget camping safaris offer an affordable way to explore Tanzania’s world-famous northern parks while staying close to the wilderness.
How Tanzania Camping Safaris Work
On our basic camping safaris, you will be accompanied by a professional driver-guide and a dedicated cook who will ensure your comfort and delicious meals throughout the journey. Each day after thrilling game drives, you’ll arrive at a scenic campsite where your tent will be set up for you.
What’s Included in a Tanzania Camping Safari?
- A 4×4 safari vehicle with a pop-up roof for optimal wildlife viewing
- Driver-guide and personal cook
- 2-person dome tents with foam mattresses, sleeping bags, pillows, tables, and chairs
- Three freshly prepared meals per day
- Park fees, camping fees, and conservation charges
- 2 liters of drinking water per person daily
Campsite Locations in Tanzania’s Iconic Parks
We carefully select public and private campsites that provide a genuine bush experience. Depending on your itinerary, our Tanzania camping safari typically includes the following:
- Serengeti National Park: Seronera public campsite, located in the heart of the park for incredible wildlife encounters.
- Ngorongoro Crater: Simba public campsite, perched on the crater rim, offering stunning views and proximity to game drives.
- Lake Manyara: Private campsite just five minutes outside the park. Campsites inside the park are available at an extra cost.
- Tarangire National Park: Private campsite located outside the park, with the option to stay within the park for an additional fee.
- Ndutu Region: Simba public campsite, the closest option (1.2 hours) to the Ndutu plains for seasonal wildlife migrations.
- North Serengeti: Lobo public campsite, the only public option near the Mara River (about 1.5 hours away), perfect for observing the Great Migration.
Meals and Dining on a Tanzania Camping Safari
Enjoy three hearty meals each day prepared by your dedicated safari cook:
- Breakfast & Dinner: Served at the campsite, either outdoors under the stars or in a communal dining area if available.
- Lunch: Packed lunch boxes are provided for picnic-style dining during your game drives.
We cater to dietary preferences upon request. Additional drinking water and beverages can be arranged with prior notice.
Facilities at the Campsites
Expect basic washroom facilities with shared toilets and showers. While these are functional, they may not match the cleanliness of private lodge bathrooms, and hot water is not always guaranteed. For nighttime safety, your guide will offer practical tips, including using a bottle for emergencies to avoid wandering in the dark due to nearby wildlife.
Charging Devices
Stay connected during your Tanzania camping safari! Our safari vehicles are equipped with charging ports to keep your phones and cameras powered throughout the trip.
The Wilderness Experience: How Close to Nature Will You Be?
A Tanzania camping safari offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the wilderness. At Serengeti, both basic camping and tented lodges are located within the park, providing the same proximity to wildlife. In Ngorongoro, basic camping at Simba campsite (inside the crater rim) brings you closer to nature than budget lodges in Karatu. For Tarangire and Manyara, choosing an inside-the-park campsite enhances the adventure, offering an unparalleled bush experience.
Luggage Considerations
Since basic camping requires additional gear and an extra crew member, space in the safari vehicle is more limited compared to luxury accommodations. We recommend packing light for maximum comfort during your Tanzania camping safari.
Weather Considerations: Camping in the Rain
While our tents are waterproof, heavy rains (especially from March to May) can make the campgrounds muddy and damp. Tented camps and lodges often offer discounts during the rainy season, making them a more comfortable option. For the best camping experience, we suggest booking your Tanzania camping safari during the dry months.
Cost Comparison: Budget Camping vs. Lodge Safaris
Tanzania camping safaris are approximately 10-20% cheaper than similar itineraries with budget lodges, especially for trips that include Serengeti. However, for shorter safaris outside Serengeti, costs may be similar or slightly higher due to the additional logistics involved. Staying inside the parks on all nights during a camping safari saves around 20-25% compared to the lowest-priced ensuite accommodations.
Blending Basic Camping with Tented Lodges
If you wish to experience both camping and luxury, we can customize your Tanzania camping safari. However, since cook and equipment fees are charged daily, mixed itineraries may not significantly reduce overall costs. Contact our expert consultants to design a tailored safari at a competitive rate.
Why Choose a Tanzania Camping Safari?
- Affordable Adventure: Enjoy an authentic safari experience at a fraction of the cost of luxury lodges.
- Closer to Nature: Sleep under the stars and hear the sounds of the African bush.
- Personalized Service: Our professional guides and experienced cooks ensure a seamless and memorable journey.
Book your Tanzania camping safari today and let us bring your dream adventure to life. Remember, we’re only one email away from making your dream trip a reality!