Day Trip Activities: What to Expect
- Game Drives: The primary activity. You will explore the Tarangire River circuit, where animals congregate for water.
- Elephant Tracking: Tarangire has the highest density of elephants in North Tanzania; sightings are virtually guaranteed.
- Bird Watching: With over 550 species, it is a paradise for birders, especially near the Silale Swamps.
- Baobab Sightseeing: Take photos with "The Tree of Life." Some of these trees are over 1,000 years old.
- Picnic Lunch: Enjoying a meal at the Matete Picnic site while overlooking the river plains.
Meals on a Budget Day Trip
On a budget safari, you will typically be provided with a Safari Lunch Box
(Picnic Lunch). These are prepared early in the morning by Arusha-based catering
companies or your tour operator.
A typical Budget Safari Lunch Box includes:
- Protein: A piece of cold fried chicken or a hard-boiled egg.
- Starch: A sandwich (cheese/veggie/meat) or a savory pancake/samosa.
- Fruit: A banana or a small orange.
- Snack: A small bag of nuts, crisps, or a muffin/biscuit.
- Drink: A small juice box.
Budget Tip for Meals: The lunch boxes can be quite "dry." We recommend buying a
few extra pieces of fruit or a large yogurt at a local supermarket in Arusha
(like Shoppers or Village Supermarket) the night before to supplement your meal.
What to Bring
- Passport: You need it for the park gate registration.
- Binoculars: Even "budget" guides usually have one pair, but having your own is a game-changer for spotting leopards.
- Neutral Clothing: Avoid bright colors (scares animals) and blue/black (attracts tsetse flies). Khaki, grey, or olive is best.
- Small Cash (USD or TZS): For the guide's tip and small souvenirs. Ensure USD bills are newer than 2009.