Tanzania 7-Day Shoestring Budget Itinerary

  • Day 1: Moshi to Arusha
    1 hour (28.8 miles)

    Start your Tanzania adventure in Moshi where you can visit the Kilimanjaro National Park, home to Africa's highest mountain. Afterward, head to the vibrant town of Arusha where you can explore local markets and sample authentic Tanzanian cuisine.

  • Day 2: Arusha to Serengeti National Park
    5.5 hours (205 miles)

    No trip to Tanzania is complete without a safari at the Serengeti National Park. Witness the Great Migration where millions of wildebeest migrate as predators like lions and cheetahs lurk in the shadows.

  • Day 3: Serengeti National Park to Ngorongoro Crater
    3.5 hours (123 miles)

    After an early morning game drive, travel to the Ngorongoro Crater, one of Tanzania's most scenic destinations. Enjoy breathtaking views of the world's largest inactive volcanic caldera and visit a Maasai village to learn about their culture.

  • Day 4: Ngorongoro Crater to Lake Manyara National Park
    1 hour (31 miles)

    Explore the Lake Manyara National Park, known for its dense forests, scenic landscapes, and diverse wildlife. Spot flamingos, elephants, and tree-climbing lions in their natural habitat.

  • Day 5: Lake Manyara National Park to Mto wa Mbu
    30 minutes (18.6 miles)

    Travel to Mto wa Mbu, a bustling town that is home to over 120 different ethnic groups. Take a guided cultural tour where you can discover local crafts, traditional houses, and taste the local food.

  • Day 6: Mto wa Mbu to Bagamoyo
    4.5 hours (190 miles)

    Make your way to Bagamoyo, a UNESCO World Heritage site that tells the story of Tanzania's slavery past. Visit the Kaole ruins and learn about Swahili culture at the Bagamoyo Arts Festival.

  • Day 7: Bagamoyo to Dar es Salaam
    1 hour (43.7 miles)

    End your trip in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania's largest city. Visit the Tinga Tinga Arts Cooperative Society to see colorful Tanzanian art or relax on the beautiful beaches of Kunduchi.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Kilimanjaro National Park (1-2 days, $50-100)
  • Serengeti National Park (2-3 days, $60-200)
  • Ngorongoro Crater (1-2 days, $70-150)
  • Lake Manyara National Park (1-2 days, $40-100)
  • Bagamoyo Arts Festival (1 day, Free)
  • Tinga Tinga Arts Cooperative Society (1-2 hours, $5-10)
  • Total Estimated Costs: $225-$570

Transportation

Transportation in Tanzania is largely dependent on where you're going. Buses and taxis are available in major cities like Arusha and Dar es Salaam, while safari tours often include transportation. Expect to spend around $10-15 for a one-way trip by taxi or bus between major cities.

Useful Tips

If you have more time, consider taking a trip to Zanzibar to explore the beautiful beaches and historic Stone Town. If you have less time, consider skipping Bagamoyo or Mto wa Mbu to spend more time in the national parks. It's important to pack light, bring comfortable shoes for walking, and be prepared for hot weather.

Airports

Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) is the main airport in Moshi and Arusha, and it's about 28 miles from Arusha city centre. Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR) is the main airport in Dar es Salaam, and it's about 8 miles from the city centre.

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