Ever felt overwhelmed by confusing or outdated online information about Tanzania’s national parks? You’re not alone. We’ve noticed that many websites still share old fees, permits, and regulations that can easily mislead travellers.
To make planning easier, we’ve gathered the most up-to-date and practical information on Tanzania’s most visited parks, including the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, and Lake Natron. This guide is designed to help you plan your self-drive safari with confidence and clarity.
Ready to explore? Let’s dive in and start planning your Tanzania adventure!
This article focuses specifically on park fees and permits. If you’re looking for activity recommendations, itineraries, or tailored travel advice, feel free to contact us directly on WhatsApp: +255 786 898 045.
Tanzania National Park Fees Overview
- TANAPA National Parks Fees
- Ngorongoro Conservation Area Fees
- Lake Natron Community & WMA Fees
- Lake Eyasi Community Fees
TANAPA National Park Fees
Most of Tanzania’s protected areas are managed by the Tanzania National Parks Authority (TANAPA), except Ngorongoro and Lake Natron.
Popular northern circuit parks include Serengeti, Tarangire, Lake Manyara, and Arusha. In the southern circuit, you’ll find Ruaha, Mikumi, Nyerere, and Udzungwa.
Important for Self-Drive Travellers
No advance booking is required for TANAPA parks. There is no visitor limit, so entry is generally guaranteed at the gate.
Payments are made at the entrance using Visa or Mastercard only (cash and debit cards are not accepted).
Average TANAPA Entry Fees (per person)
- Serengeti, Kilimanjaro, Nyerere: USD 82.60
- Gombe Stream: USD 118
- Mahale: USD 94.40
- Arusha, Tarangire, Lake Manyara: USD 59
- Mikumi, Ruaha, Katavi, Udzungwa, Saadani, Mkomazi, Rubondo: USD 35.40
Children:
- Under 5 years: Free
- 5–15 years: USD 15–20 (approx.)
A day permit is valid for 12 hours, while overnight stays extend validity to 24 hours.
TANAPA Concession & Camping Fees
If you stay overnight inside a park (lodge or tented camp), a concession fee applies.
Per person per night:
- Serengeti & Nyerere: USD 70.80
- Arusha, Tarangire, Lake Manyara, Kilimanjaro: USD 47.80
- Mahale, Ruaha, Katavi, Gombe: USD 35.40
- Mikumi, Saadani, Mkomazi, Udzungwa: USD 29.50
Camping:
- Public campsites: USD 35.40 per person/night
- Special campsites: USD 59 per person/night
Children (5–15 years): USD 11.80
Under 5: Free
Vehicle Entry Fees (TANAPA)
- Below 2,000 kg: USD 10/day
- Above 2,001 kg: USD 20/day
Optional Activities (TANAPA)
- Ranger escort: USD 23.60
- Walking safari: USD 23.60 per person
- Night game drive (selected parks only): USD 59 per person
Ngorongoro Conservation Area Fees
The Ngorongoro Conservation Area is managed separately from TANAPA.
Standard Fees
- Entry fee: USD 70.80 per person / 24 hours
- Vehicle fee: USD 10–20 per day (depending on weight)
Ngorongoro Crater Descent
- Crater service fee: USD 295 per vehicle per trip
Important Notes
- Fees must be arranged at the Ngorongoro Office (Karatu or Arusha), not at the gate.
- If you pass through without entering the crater, you still pay the entry fee each time unless routing via Klein’s Gate.
- Rangers are optional for self-drive visitors inside the crater.
A ranger (if requested): USD 40 cash only
Lake Natron Fees (WMA Community Area)
Lake Natron is a community-managed wildlife area, meaning fees directly support local villages.
Typical Costs:
- Village fees: approx. USD 10 + USD 15 + USD 10 per person
- Wildlife entry fee: USD 11.80 per person
- Vehicle fee: TSh 17,700 per car
- Overnight camping: USD 23.60 per person/night
- Lodge stay: USD 17.70 per person/night
Children:
- Under 5: Free
- 5–17 years: reduced fees apply
Permits are valid for 24 hours and can be paid in cash or card (signal-dependent).
Lake Eyasi Community Fees
- Entry per vehicle: USD 20
- Cultural activities (Hadzabe & Datoga visits): USD 110 per vehicle
Local guides can be arranged through Mili Adventure Africa for an authentic experience.
Important Travel Tip
When entering any national park in Tanzania, you must declare your exit date and ensure you receive an exit stamp when leaving.
If no ranger is visible at the gate, proceed to the ranger post. Missing an exit stamp can result in penalties and fines, which may be passed on to the traveller.
Ready for Your Tanzania Self-Drive Safari?
Now that you have a clear understanding of Tanzania’s park fees and permits, you’re one step closer to planning your adventure.
If you need help with routes, vehicles, or tailor-made itineraries, feel free to reach out or explore our 4×4 rental options.
We’re here to help you build the ultimate Tanzania road trip experience.