Wildlife Safari Popular 
- TripsTailor-made for you
- Length4 to 14 days
- WhereAcross Tanzania
- Best timeJune to October
Cheap Tanzania safari: what to know
A cheap Tanzania safari for backpackers: camping in the parks, shared costs and a professional guide and cook. See short trips that fit a small budget.
What to know before you go
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How a cheap Tanzania safari works
On a camping safari you sleep in dome tents at public campsites inside or near the parks, with a cook preparing fresh meals and a guide driving a 4x4 with a pop-up roof. Nights in the bush, with lions and hyenas calling in the dark, are a highlight for many travellers.
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Keeping costs low
Camping avoids lodge prices, and joining others shares the cost of the vehicle and guide. Park fees still apply, so short trips of three to five days to Tarangire, the Serengeti and Ngorongoro give the best value.
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Who it suits
Adventurous travellers on a tight budget who do not mind simple facilities. Bring a warm layer for cold nights and read our packing list.
Trips we can shape around Backpacker
We do not have a ready-made itinerary in this style yet. These trips are a good starting point, and we adapt any of them for you.
Wildlife Safari Popular 
Wildlife Safari Popular 8-Day Tanzania Safari with Lake Eyasi & Maasai Culture
Arusha · Tarangire National Park · Central Serengeti (2) · Ngorongoro Crater · Lake Eyasi · +1 more
Great Migration Popular 10-Day Serengeti Migration Safari, Lake Eyasi & Zanzibar
Arusha · Tarangire National Park · Central Serengeti (2) · Ngorongoro Crater · Lake Eyasi · +1 more
Beach & Island Popular 8-Day Zanzibar & Northern Tanzania Safari
Zanzibar (2) · Tarangire National Park · Central Serengeti (2) · Ngorongoro Crater · Lake Eyasi
Great Migration Popular 8-Day Fly-In Serengeti Safari & Zanzibar Beach Holiday
Zanzibar (3) · Serengeti National Park (2) · Karatu · Lake Eyasi
Beach & Island Popular 10-Day Tanzania Safari & Zanzibar: Serengeti, Dolphins & Spice
Arusha · Tarangire National Park · Central Serengeti (3) · Zanzibar (3) · Stone Town
Talk to a safari expert
Our team in Arusha answers in English, French, German and Spanish.
Questions about Backpacker
Backpacker: how many days do I need?
Our Backpacker trips run from 4 to 10 days, and most guests choose about 7. Fewer days mean more time on the road; more days let you slow down and stay longer where the animals are.
Backpacker: when is the best time to go?
The best time is June to October. Every month has something, though, so read our guide to the best time to visit Tanzania before you choose your dates.
Backpacker: how much does it cost?
The price depends on the season, the number of people and the lodges you choose. We send a clear, all-inclusive proposal for your dates within 24 hours, and our guide to the cost of a Tanzania safari explains the main costs.
Backpacker: can I add Zanzibar or Kilimanjaro?
Yes. Zanzibar is about an hour's flight from Arusha or the Serengeti, and Kilimanjaro is an hour's drive from Arusha. See our Zanzibar holidays and Kilimanjaro routes.
Backpacker: is the trip private?
Yes. Every trip we run is private, with your own vehicle and guide, and we adapt the route, the lodges and the pace to you. Start with the trip planner or contact us.
Other budgets and styles
Shall we plan your trip?
Tell us your dates and what you would like to see. A specialist in Arusha sends a route and a clear proposal within 24 hours.
Plan this trip
