12-Day Budget Tanzania Migration Safari 2025/2026 - Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Maasai Mara
Embark on an unforgettable 12-day budget-friendly safari through Tanzania and Kenya, witnessing the incredible Great Migration and exploring some of the most iconic wildlife destinations in Africa. This Tanzania budget safari offers an affordable way to experience the beauty and adventure of the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, and Maasai Mara.
Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, a photographer, or simply looking for an adventurous escape, this tour brings you up close with the Big Five and the spectacular wildlife of East Africa. From the endless plains of the Serengeti to the lush grasslands of Maasai Mara, you’ll experience diverse ecosystems, rich wildlife, and breathtaking landscapes, all while staying in budget lodges and comfortable camping accommodations.
Designed for travelers seeking affordable safari tours without compromising on experience, this budget Tanzania safari tour allows you to witness one of nature’s most extraordinary spectacles—the Great Migration—and explore Tanzania’s most famous parks in a sustainable, value-packed way.
Explore the wonders of Tanzania and Kenya on this affordable 12-Day Budget Migration Safari. This meticulously crafted safari will take you through Tanzania's iconic Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, and Kenya's world-renowned Maasai Mara, all while keeping your budget in mind. Witness the Great Migration, spot the Big Five, and experience East Africa’s incredible wildlife and landscapes.
Day 1: Arrival in Arusha – Welcome to Tanzania
Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) where you will be greeted by your safari guide. Transfer to your hotel in Arusha to relax before the adventure begins.
Accommodation: Budget lodge in Arusha
Meals: Dinner (depending on arrival time)
Day 2: Arusha to Tarangire National Park – The Land of Giants
After breakfast, journey to Tarangire National Park, known for its massive elephant herds and iconic baobab trees. This park offers fantastic game viewing with lions, giraffes, zebras, and wildebeests.
Accommodation: Budget lodge or tented camp near Tarangire
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Highlight: Tarangire’s wildlife concentration along the river offers excellent photo opportunities.
Day 3: Tarangire to Lake Manyara National Park – Birdwatcher’s Paradise
Next, drive to Lake Manyara National Park, famous for its tree-climbing lions and diverse birdlife. Enjoy a game drive, spotting flamingos, elephants, and buffaloes by the lake.
Accommodation: Budget lodge or tented camp near Lake Manyara
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Highlight: The park’s stunning scenery and wildlife make it a must-visit for bird watchers.
Day 4: Lake Manyara to Serengeti National Park – The Heart of the Migration
Drive to the legendary Serengeti National Park, home to the Great Migration. Explore the park’s endless plains, teeming with wildlife including the Big Five.
Accommodation: Budget lodge or tented camp in Serengeti
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Highlight: Serengeti offers incredible game drives with a chance to witness the migration in action.
Day 5-6: Serengeti – Exploring the Great Migration
Spend two full days in Serengeti tracking the herds of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles. Your safari guide will ensure you’re at the best spots to witness dramatic river crossings, predator-prey interactions, and breathtaking views.
Accommodation: Budget lodge or tented camp in Serengeti
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Highlight: Witness the Great Migration up close, with chances to see river crossings (July-October).
Day 7: Serengeti to Ngorongoro Crater – A Natural Wonder
After breakfast, head towards Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Descend into the crater for a game drive, where you’ll spot a variety of wildlife, including lions, rhinos, and elephants.
Accommodation: Budget lodge on the crater rim
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Highlight: Ngorongoro Crater is one of the world’s most unique wildlife conservation areas.
Day 8: Ngorongoro Crater to Maasai Mara – Crossing into Kenya
Drive to Maasai Mara, Kenya’s premier wildlife destination. Cross the border into Kenya and make your way to your lodge. Enjoy an evening game drive to get a taste of the park’s wildlife.
Accommodation: Budget lodge or tented camp in Maasai Mara
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Highlight: The Mara offers a unique combination of wildlife viewing and cultural experiences.
Day 9-10: Maasai Mara – The Great Migration & Big Cats
Spend two days exploring the Maasai Mara, witnessing the Great Migration (July-October), and spotting the Big Five. Enjoy game drives to track lions, cheetahs, and wildebeests, with plenty of opportunities for photography.
Accommodation: Budget lodge or tented camp in Maasai Mara
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Highlight: Maasai Mara’s open plains and abundant wildlife make it one of the world’s top safari destinations.
Day 11: Maasai Mara to Nairobi – The Capital Awaits
After breakfast, drive to Nairobi, Kenya’s vibrant capital. Enjoy a visit to the Giraffe Centre or David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust to learn about conservation efforts before transferring to your hotel.
Accommodation: Budget hotel in Nairobi
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Highlight: Nairobi’s wildlife conservation efforts offer a unique experience before heading home.
Day 12: Departure from Nairobi
After breakfast, depending on your flight schedule, transfer to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport for your return flight home.
Meals: Breakfast
What’s Included in the 12-Day Tanzania Budget Migration Safari
✅ All park fees and government taxes
✅ Budget-friendly lodges and camps
✅ Private 4x4 safari vehicle with a pop-up roof
✅ Professional English-speaking guide
✅ All meals during safari (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
✅ Bottled drinking water on all game drives
✅ Airport transfers and transportation
✅ Game drives in Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, and Maasai Mara
What’s Not Included
❌ International flights
❌ Visa fees
❌ Travel insurance
❌ Tips and personal expenses
❌ Optional activities (e.g., hot air balloon safari)
Best Time for This Budget Safari
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June to October: Best for the Great Migration and predator sightings in the Serengeti and Maasai Mara.
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January to March: Ideal for calving season in Serengeti, with a chance to see newborn animals.