Africa Merit Safaris
4-Day Budget Manyara & Ngorongoro

4-Day Budget Manyara & Ngorongoro

Overview

Discover two of Tanzania's most diverse ecosystems on this 4-day budget camping safari. Explore the tree-climbing lions of Lake Manyara National Park and descend into the world-famous Ngorongoro Crater for unparalleled wildlife viewing. With shared transport, public campsites, and meals prepared by your safari chef, this trip delivers incredible value and unforgettable experiences.

Highlights

Spot tree-climbing lions in Lake Manyara National Park
Descend 600 metres into the Ngorongoro Crater for a full-day game drive
Camp on the rim of the Ngorongoro Crater with spectacular views
See flocks of flamingos and hippo pools at Lake Manyara
Shared 4x4 safari vehicle with pop-up roof
All camping equipment and meals provided

Gallery

4-Day Budget Manyara & Ngorongoro — image 1
4-Day Budget Manyara & Ngorongoro — image 2
4-Day Budget Manyara & Ngorongoro — image 3

Day-by-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arusha to Lake Manyara National Park

Depart Arusha after breakfast and drive to Lake Manyara National Park, a scenic journey of approximately two and a half hours. Enter the park for an afternoon game drive. Lake Manyara is famous for its tree-climbing lions, dense elephant populations, and the alkaline lake that attracts thousands of flamingos. Explore the groundwater forest and acacia woodlands. In the evening, head to Lake Manyara Public Campsite for dinner and overnight.

Accommodation

Budget: Fig Tree Lodge

Fig Tree Lodge

Lunch, Dinner

Day 2: Manyara to Karatu Area

Enjoy a relaxed morning at the campsite with breakfast. Take a guided nature walk or visit a nearby village to experience local culture. After lunch, drive to Karatu, a charming town set in the lush highlands between Lake Manyara and the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Settle into the campsite on the outskirts of Karatu and enjoy a hot dinner prepared by your chef.

Accommodation

Budget: Octagon Lodge

Octagon Lodge

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3: Ngorongoro Crater Game Drive

Wake before dawn and drive up to the Ngorongoro Crater rim. Descend 600 metres into the caldera for a full-day game drive on the crater floor. The Ngorongoro Crater is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the best places in Africa to see the endangered black rhino, along with lion, hyena, buffalo, elephant, and hippo. Enjoy a picnic lunch by the hippo pool. In the late afternoon, ascend the crater rim and head to Simba A Public Campsite for dinner and overnight with stunning crater views.

Accommodation

Budget: Simba Public Campsite

Simba Public Campsite

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4: Return to Arusha

After breakfast at the campsite overlooking the crater, begin the drive back to Arusha. Descend through the Ngorongoro highlands, passing through Karatu and Mto wa Mbu. Arrive in Arusha by early afternoon. Transfer to your hotel or the airport for your onward journey.

Included

  • Shared 4x4 safari vehicle with pop-up roof
  • Professional English-speaking driver-guide
  • Safari chef to prepare all meals
  • Camping equipment (tent, sleeping mat, chair)
  • Park entry and camping fees
  • Ngorongoro Crater descent fee
  • All meals during safari as per itinerary
  • Bottled drinking water during game drives

Excluded

  • International flights and visas
  • Sleeping bag (available for hire)
  • Travel and medical insurance
  • Tips and gratuities for guide and chef
  • Personal expenses and laundry
  • Optional village visits

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