How to Plan a Budget Safari in Tanzania

Tanzania is one of the best safari destinations in Africa, offering incredible wildlife, breathtaking landscapes, and unforgettable cultural experiences. However, many travelers assume that a safari is only for luxury tourists. The truth is, you can explore Tanzania’s top national parks without breaking the bank! With smart planning, you can enjoy an authentic and affordable safari experience. Here’s how to plan a budget-friendly safari in Tanzania with EATL Tours.

1. Travel During the Low Season

Tanzania has two main safari seasons:

• High Season (June – October, December – February): Best for wildlife viewing, but prices for accommodation and tours are at their peak.
• Low Season (March – May, November): Fewer crowds, lower prices on lodges, and incredible green landscapes, though some roads may be muddy.

For a budget safari, traveling in the low season can save you up to 40% on park fees, lodges, and flights while still offering fantastic wildlife encounters.

2. Choose Budget-Friendly Parks

Tanzania has multiple safari destinations, each with different costs. To cut expenses, consider parks that offer amazing wildlife without the high entrance fees of Serengeti or Ngorongoro.

Affordable Safari Destinations in Tanzania:

✔ Tarangire National Park – Famous for elephants and baobab trees.
✔ Lake Manyara National Park – Home to tree-climbing lions and flamingos.
✔ Mikumi National Park – Often called “Serengeti’s little brother,” with similar landscapes and wildlife.
✔ Ruaha National Park – Offers an untouched wilderness experience at a lower cost than Serengeti.

For the ultimate budget safari, combine these parks instead of focusing only on Serengeti or Ngorongoro Crater.

3. Opt for Group Safaris

Joining a group safari instead of booking a private tour significantly lowers costs. Group tours allow you to share transportation, fuel, and guide expenses, making safaris much more affordable.

EATL Tours offers budget group safaris where you can experience Tanzania’s wildlife while meeting other travelers.

4. Stay in Budget Accommodations

Luxury safari lodges can cost over $1,000 per night, but Tanzania offers plenty of affordable options:

• Camping Safaris – Stay in tents at designated campsites within or near the national parks. Budget-friendly and immersive!
• Budget Lodges & Tented Camps – Basic yet comfortable stays starting from $30–$100 per night.
• Public Campsites – Government-run campsites near parks provide the most affordable accommodation.

If you’re looking for an authentic safari experience at a lower price, camping is the best way to go!

5. Use Road Transport Instead of Flights

While flying between destinations saves time, it’s expensive. Instead, choose overland safaris where you travel by safari vehicle or public transport.

• Public Buses: Travel between major cities (like Arusha to Dar es Salaam) on budget-friendly long-distance buses.
• Overland Safaris: Travel in a safari vehicle from park to park instead of taking domestic flights.

By choosing road travel, you can save hundreds of dollars on domestic flights.

6. Limit the Number of Parks You Visit

Each national park in Tanzania has entrance fees ranging from $30 to $80 per day. Visiting multiple parks quickly adds up. Instead, focus on 1–2 key parks to minimize costs while still seeing incredible wildlife.

For example, a 4-day budget safari can include Tarangire, Lake Manyara, and Ngorongoro Crater, giving you diverse wildlife without excessive costs.

7. Pack Your Own Essentials

To avoid additional costs, bring:
✅ Binoculars – Instead of renting them.
✅ Refillable Water Bottle – Some parks charge extra for bottled water.
✅ Snacks – Buying food inside parks can be expensive.
✅ Warm Clothes – If camping, it gets cold at night.

By being prepared, you can avoid unnecessary expenses during your safari.

8. Book with a Budget Safari Operator

The best way to save money on a safari is to book with an experienced, affordable tour operator like EATL Tours. We specialize in budget-friendly safaris without compromising on experience.

With EATL Tours, you can enjoy:
✔ Affordable packages tailored to your budget
✔ Camping and budget lodge safaris
✔ Group safaris to cut costs
✔ Knowledgeable guides for the best experience

Plan Your Budget Safari in Tanzania with EATL Tours!

Ready for an unforgettable safari without breaking the bank? EATL Tours makes it possible! Whether you want a group safari, camping adventure, or an affordable private tour, we’ll help you plan the perfect trip.

📞 Call/WhatsApp: +255 682 980 318 / +4917677877827
📧 Email: [email protected]