Tanzania · Tarangire, Lake Manyara, Ngorongoro

4-Day Northern Circuit Camping Safari

4 Days / 3 Nights·Gosheni SafarisVerified Operator

Overview

Explore three of Tanzania's top wildlife parks — Tarangire, Lake Manyara, and Ngorongoro Crater — on this 4-day budget camping safari from $520 per person with all park fees included.

This 4-day camping safari covers the essential trio of northern Tanzania's wildlife parks. Start in Tarangire National Park, where massive elephant herds gather along the river beneath ancient baobab trees. Continue to Lake Manyara, a Rift Valley gem renowned for tree-climbing lions and vibrant flamingo congregations. Finish with the crown jewel — a full morning game drive on the floor of the Ngorongoro Crater, where the Big Five are all present within a single volcanic caldera. Budget camping accommodation and a professional guide keep this tour affordable without compromising on wildlife experiences.

Safari Highlights

  • Three iconic parks in four days
  • Tarangire elephant herds — largest in Tanzania
  • Lake Manyara tree-climbing lions and flamingos
  • Ngorongoro Crater Big Five game drive
  • Budget camping with all meals included
  • Professional guide and 4x4 vehicle

Day-by-Day Itinerary

1

Arusha to Tarangire National Park

Depart Arusha after breakfast and drive to Tarangire National Park. Spend the full day exploring the park along the Tarangire River where large herds of elephants congregate. The iconic baobab-studded landscape is home to lion, leopard, buffalo, zebra, and wildebeest. Tarangire also boasts incredible birdlife with over 550 species. Set up camp near the park as the sun sets.

Accommodation: Budget camping — Tarangire area campsite

Meals: Lunch (packed), Dinner

Transfer to TarangireFull-day game driveElephant watchingBirdwatching
2

Tarangire to Lake Manyara National Park

After breakfast, drive to Lake Manyara National Park. Explore the dense groundwater forest where blue monkeys and olive baboons swing through the canopy. Drive along the lakeshore searching for tree-climbing lions, hippos, and vast flocks of flamingos. The park's diverse habitats support over 400 bird species. Continue to the Ngorongoro area for the night.

Accommodation: Budget camping — Ngorongoro area campsite

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch (packed), Dinner

Morning drive in TarangireLake Manyara game driveTree-climbing lion searchTransfer to Ngorongoro
3

Ngorongoro Crater Floor Game Drive

Descend into the Ngorongoro Crater at dawn for a full morning game drive on the crater floor. This 260 km² caldera is home to roughly 25,000 large mammals — including the Big Five. Search for endangered black rhino near the Lerai Forest, watch lion prides hunting on the open grasslands, and enjoy flamingos at Lake Magadi. Picnic lunch at the hippo pool before ascending to camp on the crater rim.

Accommodation: Budget camping — Simba Campsite, Ngorongoro

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch (packed), Dinner

Dawn crater descentCrater floor game driveBig Five spottingHippo pool picnic
4

Ngorongoro to Arusha

Enjoy a final sunrise from the crater rim with coffee, then depart for Arusha. The drive takes you through the Ngorongoro Highlands, passing Maasai bomas (homesteads) and farmland. Optional stop at a Maasai cultural village (at own expense). Arrive in Arusha by early afternoon.

Accommodation: End of tour — Arusha drop-off

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Crater rim sunriseScenic drive through highlandsOptional Maasai village visitReturn to Arusha

What's Included

  • Arusha hotel transfers
  • All park entry fees and crater service fee
  • Professional English-speaking guide
  • 4x4 safari vehicle with pop-up roof
  • Full-board meals (B, L, D)
  • Camping accommodation with tents and bedding
  • Drinking water during drives

What's Excluded

  • International flights
  • Tanzania visa
  • Travel insurance
  • Tips and gratuities
  • Beverages
  • Sleeping bag rental ($15)
  • Personal expenses
From

$520

per person sharing

Duration4 Days
CountryTanzania
DestinationTarangire, Lake Manyara, Ngorongoro
Difficultyeasy
Group Size112

Group Pricing

Solo Traveller$676
2 People$520
4-6 People$442
Book This Safari

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4-Day Northern Circuit Camping Safari | Exclusive Africa Safaris