Introduction
Tanzania’s Northern Safari Circuit is Africa’s most iconic safari route — and for good reason. Home to the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire, Lake Manyara, and Arusha National Park, it offers unmatched wildlife encounters, dramatic landscapes, and world-class safari experiences. Whether you’re a first-time traveler or a returning safari lover, this region is the perfect introduction to Tanzania’s wild side. In this guide, Wild Rhythms Safaris breaks down everything you need to know to plan the perfect Northern Circuit safari.
????️ What Is the Northern Safari Circuit?
The Northern Circuit is a collection of easily connected national parks and conservation areas in northern Tanzania. It typically includes:
- Arusha National Park
- Tarangire National Park
- Lake Manyara National Park
- Ngorongoro Conservation Area
- Serengeti National Park
???? Park-by-Park Overview
???? 1. Arusha National Park
- Great for: Walking safaris, canoeing, Mount Meru climbs
- Highlights: Colobus monkeys, waterfalls, flamingos, giraffes
- Distance from Arusha: ~1 hour
???? 2. Tarangire National Park
- Great for: Elephants, baobabs, dry season wildlife
- Highlights: Tarangire River, massive elephant herds, lions
- Best time: June–October
???? 3. Lake Manyara National Park
- Great for: Birding, monkeys, tree-climbing lions
- Highlights: Hippo pools, flamingos, groundwater forest
- Best time: November–June (green and lush)
???? 4. Ngorongoro Crater
- Great for: Big Five, scenery, black rhinos
- Highlights: Crater floor game drive, Maasai villages
- Best time: Year-round
???? 5. Serengeti National Park
- Great for: Big cats, the Great Migration, endless plains
- Highlights: Mara River crossings (Jul–Oct), calving season (Jan–Mar), predator sightings
- Best time: Year-round (varies by location)
???? How Long Should a Northern Circuit Safari Be?
| Itinerary Length | Ideal For |
|---|---|
| 4 Days | Highlights only (e.g., Tarangire + Ngorongoro) |
| 6–8 Days | Balanced route (Serengeti + others) |
| 10+ Days | In-depth + seasonal migration tracking |
Wild Rhythms Tip: A 7-day safari allows you to enjoy all 5 parks without rushing.
????️ Accommodation Options
- Luxury Lodges: Great for couples & honeymooners
- Tented Camps: Classic safari feel, close to nature
- Mobile Camps: Follow the Great Migration (especially in Serengeti)
- Budget Lodges: Comfortable, affordable, family-friendly
???? Getting There
- International Arrival: Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO)
- Start/End Point: Arusha town
- Transfer Options: Drive-in, fly-in, or combo safaris
???? Pro Tips for a Northern Safari Circuit
- Go in June–October for dry weather and easier game viewing
- Travel January–March to catch the wildebeest calving season
- Book early (especially for July–October if you want to see the Mara River crossings)
- Consider adding Zanzibar at the end for beach relaxation
???? Let Wild Rhythms Plan Your Northern Circuit
At Wild Rhythms Safaris, we offer tailor-made itineraries across the entire Northern Circuit. From private drives and cultural visits to migration-tracking routes and fly-in luxury packages — we’ve got you covered.
???? Contact us today to plan a Northern Circuit safari that fits your dreams, schedule, and budget.
