5 Tips for Budget Travel in Tanzania: How to Save Money and Still Have an Amazing Trip
Tanzania is an East African country that is a popular tourist destination known for its majestic wildlife and stunning beaches. While Tanzania offers unique safari experiences and beach escapades, it can be expensive for budget travelers. However, with careful planning and a few tips, you can enjoy Tanzania on a budget. Here are five tips for budget travel in Tanzania that can help you save money and still have an amazing trip.
Tip One: Book Your Trip in the Off-Season
The high season in Tanzania runs from June to September and December to January. During these months, accommodation rates can skyrocket, and availability can be an issue. Booking during the off-season, which runs from April to May, can save you up to 50% on accommodation and flight rates. Apart from lower rates, you will find fewer crowds, which means more personalized experiences.
Tip Two: Explore Public Transportation
While taxis and private cars may seem more comfortable, public transportation in Tanzania is affordable and can save you a lot of money. Buses, Dala Dalas (small mini-buses), and Bajajis (three-wheeled vehicles) are widely available and relatively cheap. Public transportation is an opportunity to explore the Tanzanian lifestyle and culture, meet locals, and gain unique insights into the country.
Tip Three: Accommodate in Hostels or Guesthouses
Accommodation takes up a significant chunk of the travel budget. If you’re looking to save money on accommodation, consider staying in hostels or guesthouses. These types of accommodation are affordable, and many offer basic amenities such as private rooms with shared bathrooms. Staying in a hostel or guesthouse also provides an opportunity to socialize with fellow travelers from all over the world and exchange travel tips and experiences.
Tip Four: Shop at Local Markets and Eat at Local Restaurants
Eating out can be expensive, especially if you dine at upscale restaurants or hotels. However, you can find affordable food options by shopping at local markets and eating at local restaurants. Not only will you save money, but you will also get to experience authentic Tanzanian cuisine. Indigenous foods such as Ugali and Nyama Choma are cost-effective, filling, and delicious.
Tip Five: Book a Group Tour
While it might seem counterintuitive, booking a group tour can be cost-effective. Group tours often come with discounts on accommodation, transportation, and activities. A group tour also provides a structured itinerary, which can be ideal if you’re unfamiliar with the area. Moreover, activities such as safaris often require a group to make them affordable. Booking a group tour can save you a lot of money that you can then invest in some other activity or experience.
Conclusion
Tanzania is an excellent destination for budget travelers who want to experience the country’s unique culture and wildlife, regardless of their budget. By following these five tips, budget travelers can stay within their budget, venture off the beaten path, and still have an amazing trip. It is essential to plan your trip well in advance and keep in mind that travel experiences are about the memories and people you meet along the way, not just the amount of money you spend.
