Completely flexible itinerary that starts from Arusha, Tanzania’s safari gateway 15km from Kilimanjaro International Airport and gives you 7 days to visit Arusha National Park, multi-day Serengeti plains and Ngorongoro Crater National Park all with shared 4×4 transportation, simple camping, all meals and guide and park fees for less than US$2000 per person. The best months to travel in March-May or November to save 20% on regular prices is to book through the Arusha operator directly for best value.
Day One: Arrival in Arusha
Welcome to Arusha! Once you arrive, check into your budget-friendly guest house ($20 to $30 per night). You may also take an optional city walk in the afternoon to prepare for your wildlife adventures. Dinner will be provided in preparation for an early rise in the morning.
Day Two: Arusha National Park
In the morning, you will leave for Arusha National Park to look for animals such as giraffes, zebras, and colobus monkeys within the forests of Mount Meru. You will have a picnic lunch in the bush, and will return to your campsite before nightfall. The entrance fee is minimal (approximately $50).
Day Three: Serengeti Entry Drive
Serengeti Entrance Drive 5 to 6 hour scenic trip to Serengeti via Ngorongoro gate (entry fee $70, payable via credit/debit/ATM). Afternoon safari results in lions and elephants amongst the endless plains for our overnight accommodation of park-style camping ($30 per night).
Day Four: Full Serengeti Day
Full DaySerengeti From dawn to dusk, we have the opportunity to chase the massive herd of migrating wildebeests along with many predators. Lunch and bush breakfast will be included. We will also enjoy camping in the stars and ranger led talks. This is also peak time for seeing the big 5!
Day Five: Serengeti Migration Focus
Explore meandering migration paths of Cheetahs and Leopards. Optional 1 hour Short Night Drive ($20 additional). Share meals socially or organize your own meals to save on costs. Immerse yourself fully in the drama of the Savannahs.
Day Six: Ngorongoro Crater
Exit Serengeti in the morning, Descend to Ngorongoro Crater ($70 general admission) for a full day’s drive on the floor of the Doing a full day drive from one of the largest Craters to view the world in date; Rare Rhino, Hippo and dense game. Lodge at Crater Rim overnight ($50)
Day Seven: Arusha Return
Return to Arusha via the final views from the crater. It will take 4-5 hours to drive back to Arusha from the Ngorongoro Crater. You will be dropped off at the airport with memories of the Big 5. The total cost for park fees is $300-400.
Cost Breakdown Details
Transport and guide run $400-500 in a shared vehicle with fuel. Camping and three daily meals add $300-400 using basic tents. Park fees hit $300-400 (Serengeti $71/day, Ngorongoro $70). Tips, water, and misc total $100-200 group sharing slashes 20-30%. Grand total stays $1,200-1,900, flights extra.
Budget Tips
Opt for 6-8 person groups to hit $220-280 daily rates. Shoulder seasons cut costs; avoid July-October peaks. Direct operator bookings skip middlemen. Carry cash for tips ($10-20/day group), insect repellent, and binoculars. Skip self-driving unless experienced.
Packing Essentials
Pack light layers, a hat, and sunscreen for heat. Binoculars and cameras capture the action. Sleeping bag for chilly camps; malaria prophylaxis key. Bottled water only.
Summary
7-day Tanzania Serengeti safari under $2000: Arusha start, Serengeti drives, Ngorongoro Crater, budget camping & tips for epic Big Five views.
