7 Tips on How to Travel in Tanzania on a Budget

Tanzania’s breathtaking landscapes, from the Serengeti’s Great Migration to Mount Kilimanjaro’s summit, are a dream for travelers, but safaris and treks can seem costly. With smart planning, you can explore Tanzania’s wonders affordably in 2025. These seven budget travel tips will help you save on safaris, trekking, and cultural experiences without missing out on the adventure.

1. Join Group Safaris

Group safaris are a cost-effective way to explore parks like Serengeti, Ngorongoro, or Tarangire. By sharing vehicles, guides, and park fees with others, you significantly reduce costs compared to private tours. Look for 3- or 4-day group safaris, which often include camping accommodations and meals, ideal for budget travelers seeking the Big Five or the Great Migration.

Tip: Book with operators like Top Serengeti Safaris for group packages starting at $200-$300 per person per day.

2. Opt for Camping Over Lodges

Camping safaris are far cheaper than staying in luxury lodges or tented camps. Public campsites in Serengeti or Ngorongoro offer basic facilities and immerse you in the wilderness, with sounds of hyenas or lions at night. Many budget operators provide tents, sleeping mats, and group meals, keeping costs low while maintaining safety and comfort.

Tip: Confirm what gear is provided to avoid overpacking, and bring a lightweight sleeping bag for chilly nights.

3. Travel in the Low Season

The wet season (April to May, November) offers lower prices on safaris, accommodations, and flights, with fewer crowds in parks like Mikumi or Arusha. While some rain is expected, wildlife is still abundant, and lush scenery enhances photography. For Kilimanjaro treks, shoulder seasons (late March or October) provide discounts and decent weather.

Tip: Pack a waterproof jacket and check road conditions for overland safaris during rains.

4. Use Local Transport for Short Distances

Instead of private transfers or domestic flights, use local buses or dala-dalas (minibuses) for short distances, such as Arusha to Moshi or Dar es Salaam to Mikumi. These cost a fraction of private transport ($2-$10 vs. $100+). For safaris, combine local transport to base cities like Arusha with group tours to parks.

Tip: Carry small Tanzanian Shilling notes for fares and travel early to avoid crowded buses.

5. Eat Local and Save on Meals

Skip expensive tourist restaurants and enjoy local eateries in towns like Moshi or Arusha. Try affordable dishes like ugali (maize porridge) with nyama choma (grilled meat) or beans, costing $1-$5 per meal. For safaris, choose packages with included meals or shop at local markets for snacks to supplement camp food.

Tip: Visit markets like Arusha’s Central Market for fresh fruits and budget-friendly supplies.

6. Prioritize Affordable Destinations

Focus on parks with lower entry fees, like Arusha National Park ($50-$60 per person) or Mikumi ($30-$40), compared to Serengeti or Ngorongoro ($70-$80). Day trips to Materuni Waterfalls or Lake Eyasi cultural tours are budget-friendly alternatives to multiday safaris. For Kilimanjaro, choose shorter routes like Marangu (5-6 days) over longer, pricier options.

Tip: Combine a 1-day Arusha NP safari with a Materuni Waterfall hike for a diverse, low-cost itinerary.

7. Book with Local Operators

Local operators like Top Serengeti Safaris often offer better rates than international agencies, with insider knowledge of budget-friendly options. They can customize itineraries to include camping, group tours, or lesser-known destinations like Ruaha or Gombe, saving you money while supporting local communities.

Tip: Ask for discounts on multi-person bookings or last-minute deals, especially in the low season.

Explore Tanzania Affordably!

With these seven tips, you can experience Tanzania’s wildlife, culture, and landscapes on a budget. From group camping safaris in Serengeti to affordable Kilimanjaro treks, Top Serengeti Safaris makes your dream adventure accessible. Contact us to plan your budget-friendly Tanzania trip today!