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Tanzania Southern, Western and Northern Parks Camping Safari

22 Days | 21 Nights

From $4,531 / person 

Your trip overview

Welcome to the ultimate Tanzanian safari experience, where you will explore the pristine wilderness of the Southern, Western, and Northern regions of Tanzania. This 22-day camping safari offers an unparalleled journey through three of Tanzania’s most iconic wildlife circuits, providing an exciting opportunity to witness some of Africa’s most diverse landscapes and wildlife in their natural habitats.

Your adventure kicks off in the Southern Circuit, where you’ll explore Mikumi, Ruaha, and Katavi National Parks. These parks offer a more intimate, less crowded safari experience, where you’ll encounter an incredible array of wildlife, including elephants, lions, buffaloes, and rare species. With a focus on raw, untamed beauty, you will trek through forests, savannahs, and wetlands, spotting iconic African wildlife at every turn.

Next, journey through Western Tanzania, home to the Mahale Mountains and Gombe Stream National Park. Known for their remote, pristine environments, these parks offer the chance to track chimpanzees in their natural habitat, an experience that will stay with you forever. Mahale is particularly famous for its breathtaking landscapes, featuring clear waters of Lake Tanganyika against the backdrop of lush mountain forests.

Finally, you’ll venture into the Northern Circuit, where iconic parks such as the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater await. The Serengeti is a world-renowned destination for its Great Migration, where millions of wildebeest and zebras roam the plains in search of grazing grounds. You’ll also visit Ngorongoro Crater, often referred to as the “Garden of Eden”, with its rich wildlife and volcanic landscape, home to the Big Five and countless other species.

This 22-day adventure takes you through Tanzania’s varied ecosystems, from the grassy plains of the Serengeti to the dense forests of Gombe, showcasing the diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes that have made this country a premier destination for safari enthusiasts. You’ll also experience traditional cultural encounters, giving you the chance to meet the local tribes and learn about their rich history and heritage.

With camping under the stars, you’ll be fully immersed in the Tanzanian wilderness, surrounded by the sounds of nature. Whether you’re tracking big cats in Ruaha, watching chimpanzees in Gombe, or witnessing the Great Migration in Serengeti, this safari will provide an unforgettable, authentic African adventure.

Trip Destinations

where to visit

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Planning Your Safari

Organizing a safari in Tanzania, can be overwhelming due to the many choices available for transport, accommodation, and activities.

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Full Itinerary

Day by Day

Day 1: Arrival in Dar es Salaam

Your adventure begins with your arrival in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania’s largest city and major transportation hub. Our friendly staff will greet you and transfer you to your accommodation for a relaxing evening in preparation for the adventure ahead. The driver will be there to give you a briefing on the safari.

Accommodation: FQ Hotel

Where to stay

Day 2: Dar es Salaam - Nyerere National Park

After breakfast, you’ll depart for Nyerere National Park, a journey that offers glimpses of rural Tanzanian life and stunning landscapes. Upon arrival, you’ll settle into your camp and enjoy a delicious lunch before starting your first game drive.

Nyerere is renowned for its abundant wildlife, including lions, elephants, giraffes, zebras, and a variety of bird species. You’ll spend the afternoon exploring the park capturing memorable moments amidst the savannah plains, acacia woodlands, and winding rivers.

Accommodation: Budget camping

Where to stay

Day 3: Full-Day in Nyerere National Park

You’ll wake up early to catch the beautiful sunrise and the active wildlife at Nyerere National Park. Ensure you have your camera, binoculars, water, and any other essentials for the day ahead. You’ll enjoy a game drive as the sun begins to rise, illuminating the vast plains and casting a golden glow on the landscape.

Keep your eyes peeled for the park’s diverse wildlife, including elephants, lions, giraffes, zebras, buffalos, and other species. Your guide will skillfully navigate through the park’s terrain, stopping frequently to allow for wildlife sightings and photo opportunities.

You’ll pause for a picnic lunch at a designated site within the park. You’ll enjoy delicious meals and refreshing beverages surrounded by nature’s tranquility. You’ll take this opportunity to rest before continuing your adventure. As darkness falls, you’ll make your way back to your camp. You’ll freshen up before dinner and relax under the starlit sky, recounting the highlights of your safari adventure.

Accommodation: Budget camping

Where to stay

Day 4: Nyerere - Mikumi National Park

After breakfast, you will drive to Mikumi. Today is dedicated to further exploration of Mikumi National Park. You will set out on afternoon game drives, each offering unique opportunities to spot elusive predators and witness the incredible diversity of flora and fauna. In between drives, you will enjoy leisure time at your accommodation, soaking in the serenity of the surroundings or engaging in optional activities such as guided nature walks or cultural experiences.

Accommodation: Budget camping

Where to stay

Day 5: Mikumi - Tungamalenga

You will depart Mikumi National Park and journey towards Ruaha National Park Via Tungamalenga for an overnight at one of Tanzania’s largest and most remote wilderness areas. En route, you will soak in the scenic beauty of the Tanzanian countryside. You will enjoy lunch on the way. You will arrive at Tungamalenga Village in the evening, pitch your tent, and relax after dinner waiting for another adventure tomorrow in Ruaha National Park.

Accommodation: Budget camping

Where to stay

Day 6: Tungamalenga - Ruaha National Park

After breakfast, the journey starts towards Ruaha National Park, one of Tanzania’s largest and most remote wilderness areas. En route, you’ll soak in the scenic beauty of the Tanzanian countryside before arriving at your accommodation in the heart of the park.

After lunch, you will embark on your first game drive in Ruaha, renowned for its large concentrations of elephants, big cats, and diverse birdlife. As the sun sets over the rugged landscapes, you will savor the magic of the African bush during a memorable sundowner experience.

Accommodation: Budget camping

Where to stay

Day 7: Ruaha National Park

Today is dedicated to exploring the vast expanse of Ruaha National Park, a true wilderness where adventure awaits around every corner. You will set out on morning and afternoon game drives, traversing varied terrain that includes open plains, dense woodlands, and meandering rivers.

With luck, you may encounter a pride of lions lounging in the shade, herds of buffalos grazing on the plains, or elegant antelopes darting through the bush. In between drives, you’ll relax at your accommodation and relish the serenity of your surroundings.

Main Destination: Ruaha National Park

Accommodation: Budget camping

Where to stay

Day 8: Ruaha - Mbeya

After breakfast, you will bid farewell to Ruaha National Park as you transfer back to Mbeya, where your unforgettable journey through the Southern circuit national parks of Tanzania continues. You’ll depart with cherished memories of breathtaking landscapes, thrilling wildlife encounters of Ruaha National Park,
You’ll experience the untamed beauty and wildlife wonders of Tanzania’s Southern Circuit National Parks on this unforgettable journey of discovery. Book your adventure today and embark on the safari of a lifetime!
Transit driving distance and time: 350Kms – 6 hours’ drive
Road condition: Tar-marked Road (Asphalt).

Accommodation: Budget camping

Where to stay

Day 9: Mbeya - Kipili

After having breakfast, you’ll pack your lunch and drive to Kipili, passing through Sumbawanga. You’ll take a short break at Sumbawanga for some shopping, lunch, and drinks. Then, you will continue your journey to Kipili, where you will arrive in the evening. You will pitch your tent, wait for dinner, and relax. The next day, get ready for an adventure!
Transit driving distance and time: 472Kms – 7 hours’ drive
Road condition: Tar-marked Road (Asphalt).

Accommodation: Budget camping

Where to stay

Day 10: Kipili - Katavi National Park

In the morning, you will depart from Kipili by road to Katavi. After arriving at Katavi in the afternoon, you will take a short break and have some drinks and lunch. Later in the evening, you will go for a game drive. After the drive, you will head back to the campsite for an overnight stay. The next day, you will embark on another adventure.
Transit driving distance and time: 147Kms – 2 hours’ drive
Road condition: Tar-marked Road (Asphalt).

Accommodation: Budget camping

Where to stay

Day 11: Katavi National Park

You will have an early start for a game drive in Katavi National Park. After the drive, you will return to the camp for breakfast and a short break later. Then, you will depart for an all-day game drive with lunch boxes provided.

During the drive, you will have the chance to witness large herds of elephants, buffalos, and other wildlife and also explore the Katuma River home to hippo and crocodile populations. In the late afternoon, you will return to the camp for dinner and an overnight stay.

Accommodation: Budget camping

Where to stay

Day 12: Katavi - Kigoma

After an early breakfast, you will embark on a 6-hour drive covering a distance of 382 km to the Kigoma region. The roads are in good condition and are tar-marked. You will arrive in Kigoma in the late afternoon. Once you arrive, you can relax a little and have lunch and drinks. Afterward, you will drive to the campsite or a moderate hotel for dinner and an overnight stay.
Transit driving distance and time: 382Kms – 6 hours’ drive
Road condition: Tar-marked Road (Asphalt) and Rough road.

Accommodation: Budget camping

Where to stay

Day 13: Kigoma - Mahale National Park

After having breakfast, you will drive to Mahale National Park at the park headquarters. You can relax for a little while and have a lunch box while the driver confirms the reservations. After that, you will leave the jeeps at the headquarters in Mahale and then take a private boat to reach the Mahale campsite. Here, you can relax and wait for the next adventure, which involves trekking for chimpanzees.
Nestled in the heart of Tanzania, Mahale Mountain National Park offers a haven for nature enthusiasts and adventurers alike. With its diverse landscapes, rich biodiversity, and captivating scenery, Mahale promises an unforgettable trekking experience.

Accommodation: Budget camping

Where to stay

Day 14: Mahale Mountains National Park Trekking

You’ll begin your trek into the lush rainforest of Mahale. You will follow your experienced guide as they lead you through winding trails adorned with towering trees and exotic flora. You’ll take a break from your trek to enjoy a scenic picnic lunch amidst the natural beauty of Mahale. You’ll relax by the glistening waters of a tranquil stream, savoring delicious local cuisine prepared by your guide.

You will continue your trek deeper into the forest, keeping a keen eye out for the diverse wildlife that calls Mahale home. You’ll spot colorful butterflies fluttering amongst the foliage and listen to the melodic songs of birds overhead. You’ll return to your camp as night falls, where a delicious dinner awaits you. You’ll gather around a crackling campfire under the starlit sky, sharing stories and laughter with fellow adventurers.

Accommodation: Budget camping

Where to stay

Day 15: Mahale - Kibondo

You will take a boat transfer to Mahale headquarters after breakfast and enjoy the beauty of Lake Tanganyika. Then, you will arrive at the Mahale office and take a jeep to Kibondo for an overnight stay.
Transit driving distance and time: 240km – 4 hours’ drive.
Road condition: Tar-marked Road (Asphalt).

Accommodation: Budget camping

Where to stay

Day 16: Rubondo - Mwanza

After having breakfast and preparing a packed lunch, you will drive to Kibondo town for a quick tour before proceeding to Mwanza. You will stop for lunch and refreshments in the afternoon before continuing with a safari. You will arrive in Mwanza late in the afternoon and pitch your tent before dinner.
Transit driving distance and time: 263km – 5 hours’ drive.
Road condition: Tar-marked Road (Asphalt).

Accommodation: Budget camping

Where to stay

Day 17: Mwanza - Serengeti National Park

You will depart for the world-renowned Serengeti National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Africa’s premier safari destinations. You’ll enjoy en-route game drives, soaking in the vast savannahs and endless plains teeming with wildlife. You will watch for the Big Five and witness the annual wildebeest migration (seasonal). You’ll arrive at Nguchiro public campsite in the heart of the Serengeti and unwind under the starlit sky.

Accommodation: Budget camping

Where to stay

Day 18: Serengeti National Park

You will spend the entire day exploring the Serengeti’s pristine wilderness on morning and afternoon game drives. You’ll marvel at the sheer abundance of wildlife, from graceful antelopes to powerful predators, in their natural habitat. Be sure to visit the Serengeti Visitor Center to learn more about the park’s ecosystem and conservation efforts. You will return to camp for a delicious dinner and tales of the day’s adventures around the campfire.

Accommodation: Budget camping

Where to stay

Day 19: Serengeti - Ngorongoro Highlands

You will start your day early with a game drive in Serengeti in search of animals. After that, you will head back to the camp for breakfast. Later, with a packed lunch, you will proceed with your game drive in central Serengeti. You will drive to Ngorongoro for dinner and an overnight stay at the Simba public campsite in the evening.
Transit driving distance and time: 145km – 2 hours’ drive
Road condition: Rough road.

Accommodation: Budget camping

Where to stay

Day 20: Ngorongoro Crater Tour- Manyara

You will depart for the Ngorongoro Crater, often referred to as the “Eighth Wonder of the World” for its stunning beauty and unparalleled biodiversity. You’ll descend into the crater floor, a natural sanctuary home to an incredible array of wildlife including rhinos, lions, and hippos. You’ll enjoy a picnic lunch surrounded by the breathtaking scenery of this ancient caldera. In the late afternoon, you’ll ascend to the crater rim and drive to Manyara where you can relax and savor the final evening of your safari.
Transit driving distance and time: 70km – 1 hour drive.
Road condition: Rough road.

Accommodation: Budget camping

Where to stay

Day 21: Lake Manyara National Park Tour-Tarangire

Today, you’ll journey to Lake Manyara National Park, famous for its tree-climbing lions and diverse birdlife. You will explore the park’s lush forests, open grasslands, and alkaline lake, home to flocks of flamingos. Keep your camera ready as you encounter buffalos, elephants, and other wildlife against the backdrop of the Great Rift Valley. In the afternoon, you’ll drive to Tarangire National Park at Tarangire public campsite for dinner and a well-deserved rest.
Transit driving distance and time: 95km – 1-hour drive.
Road condition: Tar-marked Road (Asphalt).

Accommodation: Budget camping

Where to stay

Day 22: Tarangire - Arusha - JRO

After breakfast, you will depart for Tarangire National Park, known for its large elephant herds and majestic baobab trees. You’ll enjoy a full day of game drives, spotting a variety of wildlife including lions, leopards, giraffes, and more. In the early afternoon, you will depart from Tarangire and drive to Arusha then proceed to JRO for departure back home.
Transit driving distance and time: 175km – 3-hour drive.
Road condition: Tar-marked Road (Asphalt).

Accommodation: No accommodation (End of tour)

Rates Per Person

Start Dates 2 people 1 room 3 people 2 rooms 4 people 2 rooms 5 people 3 rooms 6 people 3 rooms
Jan 1, 2025 – Dec 31, 2025
$7,439
$5,985
$5,258
$4,822
$4,531
Jan 1, 2026 – Dec 31, 2026
$7,439
$5,985
$5,258
$4,822
$4,531
Jan 1, 2027 – Dec 31, 2027
$7,439
$5,985
$5,258
$4,822
$4,531

Safari/Trip

Inclusions & Exclusions

Inclusions

Park fees (For non-residents)

All activities (Unless labeled as optional)

All accommodation (Unless listed as upgrade)

Camping equipment

A professional driver/guide

All transportation (Unless labeled as optional)

All Taxes/VAT

Roundtrip airport transfer

Meals (As specified in the day-by-day section)

Drinks (As specified in the day-by-day section)

Exclusions

International flights (From/to home)

Sleeping bag

Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour

Bath towels

Tips (Tipping guideline US$10.00 pp per day)

Personal items (Souvenirs, travel insurance, visa fees, etc.)

Government imposed increase of taxes and/or park fees

Some meals (As specified in the day-by-day section)

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