Experience an affordable 2-day Tanzania budget safari. Visit Lake Manyara and Ngorongoro Crater with professional guides and cost-effective accommodation
This 2-day Tanzania budget safari is perfect for travelers seeking a high-quality wildlife experience at a lower cost. You will visit the famous Lake Manyara and the Ngorongoro Crater while staying in affordable campsites or budget lodges. This 2-day budget safari uses shared vehicles and public facilities to keep costs low. Choosing a 2-day budget safari in Tanzania allows you to see the Big Five without overspending
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro Airport, your transfer driver will take you to a budget hotel in Arusha. The drive is 50 kilometers and takes about an hour. You will have a briefing about the camping or budget lodge logistics for your trip. A positive moment is meeting other budget travelers and sharing expectations for the upcoming wildlife adventure in a relaxed environment.
Destination: Kilimanjaro Airport
Accommodation: Arumeru River Lodge
mid rage 3 star lodge
Meals & Drinks: Lunch, Dinner
The journey from Arusha to Lake Manyara is 130 kilometers and takes two and a half hours. On this 2-day Tanzania budget safari, you will enjoy a full day of game viewing in a 4x4 vehicle. You will see baboons, elephants, and many bird species. You will have a picnic lunch at a designated site inside the park. An unexpected highlight is the scenic view of the Great Rift Valley wall as you drive toward your budget camp for the night
Destination: Lake Manyara
Accommodation: Burunge Tented Lodge
mid rage 3 star lodge
Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
You will wake up early to descend into the Ngorongoro Crater. This 2-day budget safari in Tanzania maximizes your time on the crater floor where wildlife is highly concentrated. You can expect to see lions, zebras, and if lucky, a black rhino. After the tour, you will start the 190-kilometer drive back to Arusha, arriving in the late afternoon. A positive moment is sharing a meal with your group while discussing the wildlife sightings of the day.
Destination: Ngorongoro Crater
Accommodation: Arumeru River Lodge
mid rage 3 star lodge
Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
We offer two pricing options:
The cost is shared within your private group. More people means a lower price per person.
Join others on a fixed-date tour at a set per-person rate—ideal for solo travelers or small groups.
The Booking Form
Experience an affordable 2-day Tanzania budget safari. Visit Lake Manyara and Ngorongoro Crater with professional guides and cost-effective accommodation
N.B: After you send your booking we will get back to you with in 24 hours.
What is the typical route for this affordable two-day journey through Manyara and the crater?
The trip starts in Arusha with a drive to Lake Manyara National Park for an afternoon of wildlife spotting. After spending the night at a budget-friendly campsite or lodge, you head to the Ngorongoro Crater for a full day of game driving. You will finally return to Arusha in the early evening of the second day.
Where do we stay during this 2-day low-cost safari?
Most budget travelers stay in public campsites located in Mto wa Mbu or near the crater rim. We provide all the necessary camping gear like tents, sleeping bags, and mattresses to ensure a decent night of rest. Some guests prefer small, basic lodges which can be arranged for a slight price adjustment
What wildlife can we expect to see in Lake Manyara on the first day?
Lake Manyara is famous for its tree-climbing lions and large herds of elephants that roam the groundwater forest. You will also see thousands of pink flamingos at the lake edge and many playful baboons along the road. It is a fantastic introduction to the animals of northern Tanzania.
Is the Ngorongoro Crater floor included in the budget package on day two?
Yes, the package includes the full descent into the crater for a half-day or full-day game drive. This area is the best place to find the rare black rhino and large prides of lions. Even on a budget, you get the same incredible wildlife experience as luxury travelers.
What amenities are included in our two-day budget adventure in Lake Manyara and the Ngorongoro Crater?
For this affordable wildlife trip, we provide quality camping equipment like waterproof tents and comfortable mattresses. A professional chef travels with you to prepare fresh local meals while you explore the parks. You will also have a reliable 4x4 vehicle with a pop up roof for the best viewing
Can we add extra activities like a bike tour in Mto wa Mbu?
You can certainly add a cultural bike ride or a guided village walk on the afternoon of the first day. This is a great way to meet local people and see how they live and farm in the rift valley. These extra activities are usually very affordable and add a lot of value to your trip
How are the meals prepared during a camping safari?
A private chef will accompany the group to handle all the cooking and kitchen logistics. They prepare hot breakfasts, packed lunches for the park, and delicious dinners under the stars. The food is typically a mix of local Tanzanian dishes and international favorites.
Will we share the vehicle with other travelers to keep the cost down?
We offer both private and group-joining options depending on your preference and budget. Joining a group is the most cost-effective way to travel as you split the costs of the car and fuel with others. Private tours are also available if you prefer a more exclusive experience for your family or friends.
What should I bring for a 2-day budget camping trip?
You should pack a small flashlight, a power bank for your phone, and a warm sweater for the cold nights. Even though it is Africa, the crater rim can get quite chilly once the sun goes down. Comfortable walking shoes and sun protection like a hat and sunscreen are also essential.
Can we change the second day to Tarangire instead of Ngorongoro?
It is possible to alter the itinerary if you want to see the giant baobab trees and large elephant herds of Tarangire. Since these parks are in the same region, we can swap them out based on your interests. Please let us know in advance so we can adjust the park permits and pricing.
great value for money and outstanding quality
Photos related to the place visited
great value for money and outstanding quality
Photos related to the place visited
great value for money and outstanding quality
Photos related to the place visited
great value for money and outstanding quality
Photos related to the place visited
great value for money and outstanding quality
Photos related to the place visited
great value for money and outstanding quality
Photos related to the place visited
great value for money and outstanding quality
Photos related to the place visited
great value for money and outstanding quality
Photos related to the place visited
great value for money and outstanding quality
Photos related to the place visited
great value for money and outstanding quality
Photos related to the place visited