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Northern Circuit Tanzania

The Ultimate Safari Experience

What is the Northern Circuit?

The Northern Circuit is Tanzania's most popular and accessible safari route, encompassing the country's most iconic national parks and conservation areas. This circuit forms the backbone of Tanzania's tourism industry and offers visitors the chance to experience some of Africa's most spectacular wildlife and landscapes in a relatively compact geographical area.

Geographical Coverage

  • Located in northern Tanzania near Arusha
  • Easily accessible from Kilimanjaro International Airport
  • Connected by well-maintained roads
  • Ideal for short to medium-length safaris (3-10 days)

Key Characteristics

  • Exceptional wildlife viewing opportunities
  • Diverse ecosystems from forests to savannahs
  • Variety of accommodation options
  • Year-round accessibility with seasonal variations

Why the Northern Circuit is Special

The Northern Circuit offers an unparalleled safari experience because it combines multiple distinct ecosystems within a relatively small area. Visitors can see everything from the tree-climbing lions of Lake Manyara to the massive elephant herds of Tarangire, the endless plains of the Serengeti, and the concentrated wildlife of the Ngorongoro Crater - all within a few days' drive.

This circuit is particularly famous for offering excellent chances of seeing the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino) and witnessing the Great Migration during peak seasons. The infrastructure is well-developed, making it perfect for first-time safari visitors and those with limited time.

Tanzania Safari Circuits Comparison

Northern Circuit

  • Most popular and accessible
  • Iconic parks (Serengeti, Ngorongoro)
  • Excellent wildlife viewing
  • Year-round accessibility
  • Best for first-time visitors

Duration: 3-10 days

Starting point: Arusha/Moshi

Southern Circuit

  • Less crowded and more remote
  • Ruaha and Selous (largest park)
  • Excellent for boat safaris
  • Wild dog and greater antelope
  • Off-the-beaten-path experience

Duration: 5-14 days

Starting point: Iringa/Dar es Salaam

Western Circuit

  • Most challenging and adventurous
  • Mahale and Katavi National Parks
  • Chimpanzee trekking by Lake Tanganyika
  • Remote wilderness experience
  • Best for experienced safari-goers

Duration: 7-21 days

Starting point: Kigoma/Mpanda

Northern Circuit Parks

Serengeti National Park

Serengeti National Park

Famous for the Great Migration, endless savannahs, and large lion populations. It is the heart of Tanzania's safari experience.

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Ngorongoro Conservation Area & Crater

Ngorongoro Conservation Area & Crater

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, home to the Ngorongoro Crater, a natural wonder with incredible density of wildlife including the Big Five.

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Tarangire National Park

Tarangire National Park

Known as the "Elephant Paradise", with iconic baobab trees and large gatherings of wildlife during the dry season.

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Lake Manyara National Park

Lake Manyara National Park

Famous for tree-climbing lions, flamingos, and diverse landscapes ranging from forests to lakeshore. The alkaline lake hosts thousands of flamingos.

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Arusha National Park

Arusha National Park

Home to Mount Meru, with beautiful crater lakes, montane forests, and colobus monkeys. A perfect introduction to Tanzania's natural diversity.

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Ready to explore the Northern Circuit?

Contact us today to plan your luxury safari adventure.

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Why Choose the Northern Circuit

Unparalleled Wildlife Viewing

Experience the best wildlife viewing opportunities in Africa
Chance to see the Big Five and Great Migration
Diverse ecosystems from forests to savannahs
Year-round accessibility with seasonal variations

Diverse Ecosystems

Traverse through multiple distinct ecosystems
From lush forests to vast savannahs
Volcanic craters and alkaline lakes
Montane forests and alpine deserts

Expert Local Guides

Learn from experienced guides with deep knowledge
Insights about wildlife behavior and local culture
Conservation efforts and community support
First aid training and emergency support

Comfortable Transportation

Well-maintained 4WD safari vehicles
Pop-up roofs for optimal game viewing
Champagne on game drives
Complimentary Wi-Fi and charging stations

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Frequently Asked Questions

The best time for the Northern Circuit is during the dry season from June to October when wildlife viewing is optimal. However, the parks are beautiful year-round, with green landscapes during the wet season (November to May).

Pack light, neutral-colored clothing (khaki, beige), a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, insect repellent, comfortable walking shoes, binoculars, and a camera. A light jacket is recommended for early morning and evening game drives. For luxury accommodations, bring elegant evening wear for dining experiences.

Yes, this safari is suitable for children aged 6 and above. Children under 6 may find the long drives and camping experience challenging. Please inform us in advance if traveling with young children so we can make necessary arrangements.

Ngorongoro Crater has excellent chances of seeing the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino). Serengeti, Lake Manyara, and Tarangire also offer good opportunities for seeing most of the Big Five. While wildlife viewing is never guaranteed, our experienced guides maximize your chances.

Accommodation is included in selected luxury lodges/camps in Tarangire, Lake Manyara, Serengeti, and near Ngorongoro. We offer options from budget to luxury lodges. Please specify your preference when booking, and we'll confirm availability and pricing.

Yes, all meals are included from breakfast on day 1 to dinner on day 8. We provide packed lunches during game drives and dinners at your accommodation. Special dietary requirements can be accommodated if notified in advance.

Our safari vehicles accommodate a maximum of 6-7 passengers to ensure everyone has a window seat and optimal viewing experience. Private safaris are available at an additional cost.

Consult your doctor or travel clinic for specific recommendations. Commonly recommended vaccinations include yellow fever, hepatitis A & B, typhoid, and routine immunizations. Malaria prophylaxis is also recommended for Tanzania.

What's Included & Not Included

What's Included

  • Accommodation in selected luxury lodges/camps
  • All park entrance fees and conservation fees
  • Professional safari guide and driver
  • All meals as per itinerary
  • Transportation in luxury safari vehicle
  • Drinking water throughout the safari
  • Bush showers and basic campsite facilities
  • Complimentary laundry service

What's Not Included

  • International flights to/from Tanzania
  • Personal travel insurance
  • Tips and gratuities for guides and staff
  • Tanzania visa fees
  • Alcoholic and soft drinks
  • Personal expenses and souvenirs
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