2 Day Tanzania Camping Safari
Overview
Discover the very best of Northern Tanzania on this extraordinary 12 Day Tanzania Camping Safari, a journey that perfectly blends thrilling wildlife encounters, breathtaking volcanic landscapes, authentic cultural experiences, and unforgettable camping adventures. Designed for travelers who want to experience Tanzania beyond the traditional safari, this itinerary explores the dramatic scenery of Lake Natron, the wildlife-rich plains of Northern and Central Serengeti, the spectacular Ngorongoro Conservation Area, the unique cultures of the Hadzabe and Datoga tribes, the beautiful forests of Lake Manyara National Park, the vibrant village of Mto wa Mbu, and the elephant paradise of Tarangire National Park. Every destination reveals a different side of Tanzania, making this one of the country’s most diverse camping safaris.
Your adventure begins with your arrival in Arusha, Tanzania’s safari capital, where you will be welcomed by your professional safari guide before receiving a detailed briefing about your upcoming expedition. Situated beneath Mount Meru, Arusha serves as the perfect gateway to Tanzania’s world-renowned national parks and conservation areas.
The journey begins with a scenic drive through Maasai country to the spectacular Lake Natron, one of East Africa’s most dramatic landscapes. Located at the base of Ol Doinyo Lengai, the only active carbonatite volcano in the world and revered by the Maasai as the “Mountain of God,” Lake Natron offers an adventure unlike any other. Depending on your fitness level and preference, you may enjoy an early morning trek on the slopes of Ol Doinyo Lengai, visit the beautiful Ngare Sero Waterfalls, walk through dramatic volcanic gorges, or explore the lake’s unique ecosystem. The alkaline waters of Lake Natron provide one of the world’s most important breeding grounds for lesser flamingos, while the surrounding Rift Valley scenery offers incredible photographic opportunities.
From Lake Natron, continue into Northern Serengeti (Kogatende), one of Africa’s premier safari destinations. Famous for the spectacular Mara River crossings during the Great Wildebeest Migration, this remote wilderness offers exceptional game viewing throughout the year. During migration season, thousands of wildebeests and zebras brave crocodile-filled waters while lions, leopards, and hyenas wait nearby, creating one of nature’s greatest wildlife spectacles. Even outside migration season, Northern Serengeti remains rich with elephants, giraffes, buffaloes, antelopes, and abundant predators.
Your safari includes two rewarding days exploring Northern Serengeti before continuing south through the beautiful landscapes of Central Serengeti, home to the famous Seronera Valley. This region supports one of Africa’s highest concentrations of resident wildlife, including lions, leopards, cheetahs, elephants, hippos, crocodiles, giraffes, buffaloes, and countless bird species. Every game drive presents exciting opportunities to observe wildlife behavior while surrounded by endless golden plains and granite kopjes.
The journey then continues through the breathtaking Ngorongoro Conservation Area, where panoramic views of volcanic highlands accompany your drive toward Mto wa Mbu. This scenic transition showcases Tanzania’s incredible geographical diversity while connecting the Serengeti ecosystem with the fertile Great Rift Valley.
A cultural highlight of this itinerary is the visit to Lake Eyasi, where you’ll meet the remarkable Hadzabe and Datoga tribes. The Hadzabe are among the last true hunter-gatherer communities in Africa, preserving a traditional way of life that has existed for thousands of years. Joining them during their morning activities offers fascinating insight into ancient survival skills, traditional hunting techniques, medicinal plants, and their deep connection with nature.
Nearby, the Datoga people are renowned for their exceptional blacksmithing craftsmanship and pastoral traditions. Visitors can observe skilled artisans producing handmade farming tools, arrowheads, jewelry, and ornaments using techniques passed down through generations. These authentic cultural experiences provide meaningful connections with Tanzania’s rich indigenous heritage.
The safari continues with a rewarding game drive in Lake Manyara National Park, famous for its lush groundwater forests, giant fig trees, tree-climbing lions, playful baboons, elephants, hippos, giraffes, buffaloes, flamingos, and more than 400 bird species. During the afternoon, enjoy authentic village activities in Mto wa Mbu, including visits to banana plantations, local markets, rice farms, traditional homes, and artisan workshops.
Your final wildlife destination is Tarangire National Park, celebrated for its iconic baobab trees and remarkable elephant population. The Tarangire River attracts thousands of animals throughout the year, making the park one of Tanzania’s finest locations for observing elephants, lions, giraffes, buffaloes, zebras, wildebeests, impalas, and abundant birdlife in beautiful natural surroundings.
During your safari you will be travelling in a custom made Toyota Land Cruiser 4×4 with a pop up roof, with an experienced professional safari guide and dedicated safari cook. This 12 Day Tanzania Camping Safari is an unforgettable journey that highlights the very best that Tanzania has to offer, from comfortable camping equipment and freshly prepared meals, to exceptional wildlife viewing, cultural immersion and breathtaking scenery.
Safari Itinerary
On arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport you will be met and greeted by your professional safari guide and transferred to your accommodation in Arusha. Depending on your arrival time, relax after your international travel or enjoy the vibrant safari capital at the foot of Mount Meru. In the evening your guide will give you a full safari briefing covering the itinerary, camping gear, wildlife expectations, safety procedures and all the essential travel information. Enjoy a tasty welcome dinner and prepare for the thrilling journey to come. Stay the night in Arusha to relax before your memorable journey through northern Tanzania begins the following morning.
Accommodation: Arusha
Meals: Dinner
We will have an early breakfast and then depart Arusha for the spectacular Lake Natron area passing traditional Maasai villages and dramatic Rift Valley scenery. On arrival join activities around Lake Natron like a guided walk to the beautiful Ngare Sero Waterfalls, exploring the alkaline lake famous for lesser flamingos or for the adventurous, a walk on the slopes of the legendary Ol Doinyo Lengai, the sacred 'Mountain of God'. Take in the breathtaking scenery and learn about the area's volcanic geology and Maasai traditions. After an adventurous day, relax at your campsite and enjoy dinner under the stars with one of Tanzania's most dramatic landscapes surrounding you.
Accommodation: Lake Natron Campsite
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
After breakfast, continue to Northern Serengeti for more scenic drives through remote wilderness and spectacular scenery. On the way you can enjoy great wildlife viewing before you enter Serengeti National Park. Upon arrival in the Kogatende region, you will embark on an afternoon game drive in search of elephants, giraffes, buffaloes, lions, leopards, cheetahs, zebras, wildebeest and a wealth of bird species. The Mara River area is an amazing place to witness spectacular river crossings during the migration season. Arrive at your public campsite before sunset where your safari cook will prepare dinner before another unforgettable camping experience deep in the African wilderness.
Accommodation: Kogatende Public Campsite
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Full day in the wildlife abundant plains of Northern Serengeti. Explore the various sections of the Mara River ecosystem and look for predators, elephants, buffaloes, giraffes, hippos, crocodiles, zebras and many species of antelope. Experience one of nature’s most dramatic spectacles during the Great Migration season when thousands of wildebeests cross crocodile-infested rivers. Have a picnic lunch in the beautiful scenery before continuing your afternoon game drive. Your experienced guide will follow recent movements of the wildlife to maximise sightings throughout the day. Dinner and another unforgettable night inside Serengeti National Park before returning to your campsite before sunset.
Accommodation: Kogatende Public Campsite
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
After breakfast, have another rewarding day exploring the diverse habitats of Northern Serengeti. Expect lions resting under acacia trees, leopards hiding in riverine forests, cheetahs surveying the open plains, elephant families, buffaloes, giraffes, zebras and prolific bird life. Your guide will take you to different areas of the wildlife depending on seasonal animal movements and recent sightings so every game drive will be different. Have a scenic picnic lunch before continuing your afternoon safari in one of Africa’s finest wilderness regions. We return to camp in the evening for a tasty dinner and our final overnight in Northern Serengeti.
Accommodation: Kogatende Public Campsite
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Following breakfast, you will start your scenic drive south through Serengeti National Park to the famous Seronera area. Enjoy non-stop game viewing on the way, looking out for lions, leopards, cheetahs, elephants, giraffes, buffaloes, hippos, crocodiles, zebras and many species of antelope. The rolling hills give way to endless plains and the changing landscapes provide spectacular scenery throughout the drive. Relax and enjoy a picnic lunch before heading to explore Central Serengeti and arrival at your public campsite. After a relaxing dinner prepared by your safari cook, spend another unforgettable overnight camping experience under the magnificent night sky of Tanzania.
Accommodation: Central Serengeti Public Campsite
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Following breakfast, enjoy a final morning game drive in the Central Serengeti before beginning your journey to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Journey through beautiful volcanic highlands with sweeping views over the crater rim and surrounding landscapes. Pass through traditional Maasai settlements and then descend into the fertile Great Rift Valley to arrive at Mto wa Mbu. This colourful multi-cultural village makes a nice place to relax after a few days in the wild. Dinner at your campsite, preparing you for tomorrow’s unique cultural experience with the indigenous communities of Lake Eyasi.
Accommodation: Mto wa Mbu Campsite
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Early morning wake up for a trip to Lake Eyasi for an unforgettable day with the Hadzabe and Datoga communities. Join the Hadzabe on their traditional hunting trips and learn about ancient survival skills, medicinal plants and their remarkable hunter-gatherer way of life. Later, visit the Datoga people, famous for their traditional blacksmithing and handcrafted tools, jewellery and ornaments. Discover the beautiful surroundings of Lake Eyasi and experience the rich cultural tradition of these interesting communities. Return to Mto wa Mbu in the afternoon for dinner and another comfortable overnight stay after a fulfilling cultural experience.
Accommodation: Mto wa Mbu Campsite
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
After breakfast drive to the nearby Lake Manyara National Park for a rewarding morning game drive. Look out for elephants, giraffes, buffaloes, hippos, baboons, blue monkeys, flamingos and the park's famous tree-climbing lions, exploring lush forests, open floodplains, acacia woodlands and the alkaline lake. After lunch drive back to Mto wa Mbu for real cultural experiences like visiting banana plantations, rice farms, local markets, artisan workshop and traditional homes. You will meet friendly local residents and learn about the daily life of the village before enjoying dinner and a quiet night at your campsite.
Accommodation: Mto wa Mbu Campsite
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
After breakfast, leave Mto wa Mbu for Tarangire National Park, known for its ancient baobab trees and dramatic herds of elephants. As you enter the park, start your exciting game drive through diverse habitats in search of elephants, lions, giraffes, buffaloes, zebras, wildebeests, impalas, waterbucks, ostriches and numerous bird species. Follow the Tarangire River where wildlife congregates year-round allowing for exceptional photographic opportunities. Enjoy a picnic lunch before continuing with your afternoon safari. Arrive in the evening at your public campsite where your safari cook will prepare a delicious farewell dinner under the African stars.
Accommodation: Tarangire Public Campsite
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Have an early breakfast before a last full game drive in Tarangire National Park. Explore more sections of the park and search for predators, elephants, giraffes, buffaloes, zebras and the many bird species that thrive within this remarkable ecosystem. The morning hours are excellent for wildlife photography, as animals become active before the midday heat. Have a picnic lunch then continue your safari and exit the park in the afternoon. Return to Arusha for the last night of your unforgettable camping adventure in the city in the evening.
Accommodation: Arusha
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Breakfast and morning at leisure on your own depending on your international flight schedule. If time allows you can visit local souvenir shops or just relax before your airport transfer. Your guide will transfer you to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) at the appropriate time for your onwards flight. Leave Tanzania with memories to last a lifetime of spectacular wildlife, breathtaking landscapes, authentic camping experiences, rich cultural encounters and the warm hospitality that makes this remarkable country one of Africa’s premier safari destinations.
Meals: Breakfast
CAMPING INCLUDES
- All Meals as per Itinerary
- Airport Transfers
- National Park Fees
- Private 4x4 safari Jeep with pop-up roof
- Professional English-speaking safari guide
- Government taxes and levies
- Soft Drinks & Wines/Beers
- Services of a professional safari cook
- All camping fees
- Spacious waterproof dome tents
- Sleeping mattresses, sleeping bags, pillows, tables, and chairs
- First aid kit
CAMPING EXCLUDES
- Travel Insurance
- International Flights
- Tipping
- Personal Equipments
- Visa fees
FAQs
A Tanzania camping safari is a real wildlife adventure, staying in fully equipped campsites within or close to Tanzania’s national parks. You can combine exciting game viewing with overnight stays in spacious safari tents, where you can experience the sights and sounds of the African wilderness, while enjoying freshly prepared meals and comfortable camping facilities.
Yes. Our camping safaris are designed to be comfortable yet still authentic bush experiences. Guests are accommodated in quality waterproof tents with comfortable sleeping mattresses, sleeping bags, pillows, tables and chairs. Throughout the trip a dedicated safari cook will prepare delicious meals.
Camping safaris can include some of Tanzania's most famous destinations, including Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Tarangire National Park, Lake Manyara National Park, Arusha National Park, Lake Natron, and Ndutu during the Great Migration calving season.
Wildlife sightings vary by season, but you can expect to see elephants, lions, leopards, buffaloes, rhinos, giraffes, zebras, wildebeest, cheetahs, hyenas, hippos, crocodiles, antelopes, and hundreds of bird species. Depending on the time of year, you may also witness the Great Wildebeest Migration.
Yes, sure. And when camping safaris are done with experienced guides, they are very safe. Campsites are set up in designated areas and your safari team will conduct safety briefings and provide guidance throughout your trip. Wildlife is always respected and trained staff are available to assist.
No. You do not need any camping experience to enjoy a Tanzania camping safari. Our experienced safari team handles tent setup, meal preparation, campsite organisation, and all logistics, allowing you to simply relax and enjoy your adventure.
We recommend packing lightweight clothing in neutral colours, a warm jacket for early mornings and evenings, comfortable walking shoes, a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, insect repellent, binoculars, a camera, personal toiletries, medications, and a reusable water bottle.
Our professional safari cook prepares freshly cooked meals every day, including breakfast, picnic or hot lunches, and delicious dinners. We can accommodate vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and other dietary requirements when informed before your safari begins.
Yes. Most of the public and special campsites have shared toilets and showers. Depending on your itinerary, private mobile camping safaris can also include portable toilets and safari showers for your convenience.
Tanzania offers great camping safaris all year round. The dry season (June to October) is great for wildlife viewing and seeing the Great Migration river crossings, and the green season (January to March) is best for the calving season in Ndutu and great birding.
Yes. Camping safaris are a perfect choice for families with children, couples, solo travellers and groups. Family-friendly itineraries can be customised with shorter driving distances, suitable campsites and activities aimed at creating unforgettable experiences for all ages.
At Tanzaniatrail we specialise in tailor-made camping safaris with professional guides who have a wealth of knowledge about the wildlife and national parks of Tanzania. We offer dependable 4×4 safari vehicles, quality camping equipment, delicious fresh cooked meals, flexible itineraries and a personal service from arrival to departure. We are dedicated to safety, comfort, authentic experiences and outstanding customer service, to ensure that every guest enjoys an unforgettable adventure in the heart of Tanzania.
Giving Back Through Every Journey
At Tanzaniatrail, we believe that travel should create lasting memories and make a positive difference. That’s why 1% of every safari package you book goes directly back to local communities in Tanzania. We regularly visit and support orphanages and community centers, and our dream is to establish a dedicated children’s home under Tanzaniatrail’s care. When you travel with us, you’re not only exploring Tanzania’s beauty — you’re also helping provide education, food, and brighter futures for vulnerable children. Your adventure changes lives. Travel with purpose.