Northern Tanzania
The well-established ‘Northern Circuit’ safari of northern Tanzania offers some of the world’s most diverse safari experiences, consisting of National Parks, game reserves, conservation areas and private concessions. Among these are the world-famous and iconic Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro Crater, and of course their less well-known neighbors, Tarangire National Park and Lake Manyara National Park.
Serengeti National Park
Serengeti National Park is one of the most famous and iconic wildlife reserves in the world. Located in the northern part of Tanzania, the park covers an area of over 14,000 square kilometers and is home to a stunning array of wildlife, including lions, elephants, leopards, buffalo, rhinos, cheetahs, zebras, giraffes, wildebeest, and many more.
One of the main draws of Serengeti National Park is the annual wildebeest migration. Each year, over a million wildebeest, along with thousands of zebras and gazelles, make a journey of over 1,000 kilometers across the Serengeti in search of food and water. This is one of the greatest wildlife spectacles on earth and is a must-see for any visitor to the park.
Aside from the migration, Serengeti safari package offers a wide range of activities for visitors. Game drives are a popular option, with experienced guides taking visitors out into the park to see the wildlife up close. Walking safaris are another great way to explore the park, allowing visitors to get closer to nature and experience the Serengeti on foot.
Hot air balloon rides are also available, providing a unique and unforgettable way to view the park from above. This is an ideal option for those looking for a romantic or special experience. Additionally, cultural tours are available, allowing visitors to learn about the local Maasai people and their traditions.
There are several lodges and campsites located within the park for overnight stays. These range from basic campsites to luxurious lodges, providing a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences.
The park is divided into several regions, each with its own unique landscape and wildlife. Some of the most popular regions within the park include the Seronera Valley, which is home to a large concentration of animals and is an ideal spot for game viewing, and the Grumeti River, which is known for its large crocodile population.
Serengeti National Park is a must-visit destination for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers. With its stunning landscapes, incredible wildlife, and range of activities and accommodation options, it offers an unforgettable safari experience in the heart of Africa.
Lake Manyara National Park
Lake Manyara National Park is a beautiful and unique wildlife reserve located in northern Tanzania, near the city of Arusha. The park covers an area of over 330 square kilometers and is known for its diverse landscapes, stunning scenery, and abundance of wildlife.
One of the main features of Lake Manyara National Park is, as the name suggests, Lake Manyara itself. The lake is a shallow, alkaline lake that is home to a variety of bird species, including flamingos, pelicans, storks, and more. Visitors to the park can take a boat tour on the lake to see the birds up close, or simply enjoy the views from the shore.
Aside from the lake, Lake Manyara National Park is also known for its diverse landscapes. The park includes forests, grasslands, and acacia woodlands, all of which provide habitats for a wide range of animals. Some of the most common animals in the park include elephants, giraffes, buffalos, zebras, hippos, and many more. The park is also home to tree-climbing lions, a unique and rare behavior that can be seen in only a few places in the world.
Visitors to Lake Manyara National Park can enjoy a range of activities, including game drives, walking safaris, and bird watching. The park is a great option for those looking for a more off-the-beaten-path safari experience, as it is less crowded than some of the more well-known reserves in Tanzania.
There are several lodges and campsites located within the park for overnight stays, ranging from basic campsites to luxurious lodges. The park is located near other popular tourist destinations in Tanzania, such as the Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro Conservation Area, making it a great addition to any safari itinerary.
Overall, Lake Manyara National Park is a stunning and unique destination that offers a range of experiences for visitors. With its diverse landscapes, abundant wildlife, and range of activities, it is a must-visit destination for any nature lover or safari enthusiast.
Tarangire National Park
Tarangire National Park is a beautiful and unique wildlife reserve located in northern Tanzania, near the city of Arusha. The park covers an area of over 2,800 square kilometers and is known for its diverse landscapes, stunning scenery, and abundance of wildlife.
One of the main features of Tarangire National Park is its large herds of elephants, which can often be seen roaming across the park’s grasslands and savannas. In addition to elephants, the park is home to a variety of other animals, including giraffes, buffalos, zebras, wildebeest, lions, leopards, cheetahs, and many more.
Tarangire National Park is also known for its baobab trees, which can be found scattered throughout the park. These unique trees provide a striking backdrop to the park’s landscapes and are a popular spot for photography.
Visitors to Tarangire National Park can enjoy a range of activities, including game drives, walking safaris, and bird watching. The park is known for its birdlife, with over 500 species of birds recorded within its borders. Some of the most common species include yellow-collared lovebirds, red-and-yellow barbets, and African grey hornbills.
There are several lodges and campsites located within the park for overnight stays, ranging from basic campsites to luxurious lodges. The park is located near other popular tourist destinations in Tanzania, such as the Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro Conservation Area, making it a great addition to any safari itinerary.
Tarangire National Park is a stunning and unique destination that offers a range of experiences for visitors. With its large herds of elephants, baobab trees, and diverse wildlife, it is a must-visit destination for any nature lover or safari enthusiast.
Arusha National Park
The park is comprised of three distinct areas with varying altitudes: Ngurdoto Crater surrounded by forest, the alkaline Momela Lakes, and the lush forest and bare rock of Mount Meru. This creates a diverse range of vegetation throughout the park, making it an exciting destination to explore.
Despite its relatively small size, the park is home to a variety of common animals including giraffes, buffalos, zebras, warthogs, black-and-white colobus monkeys, blue monkeys, flamingos, African elephants, and lions. While leopards are also present, they are rarely spotted. The forest is teeming with birdlife, including many species that are more easily seen here than elsewhere on the tourist route. For avid birders, spotting a Narina trogon or bar-tailed trogon would be a particularly exciting highlight.
Kilimanjaro National Park
Mount Kilimanjaro National Park is located in northern Tanzania and is home to the highest mountain in Africa, Mount Kilimanjaro. The park covers an area of 1,688 square kilometers and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Mount Kilimanjaro is a dormant volcano that stands at 5,895 meters tall and is a popular destination for trekkers and climbers from around the world. The mountain is known for its distinctive three peaks: Shira, Mawenzi, and Kibo, which is the highest peak and the ultimate goal for climbers.
There are several trekking routes available for those who wish to climb Mount Kilimanjaro, ranging in difficulty and duration. The most popular routes are the Marangu, Machame, and Lemosho routes, each offering a unique experience and stunning scenery.
Mount Kilimanjaro National Park is also home to a variety of flora and fauna, including several species of monkeys, antelopes, and over 140 species of birds. The lower slopes of the mountain are covered in dense forests, while the upper slopes are characterized by alpine desert and glaciers.
The best time to climb Mount Kilimanjaro is during the dry season, which runs from June to October and from December to February. The park is open year-round, but climbing during the rainy season is not recommended due to difficult conditions and safety concerns.
In addition to climbing the mountain, visitors to Mount Kilimanjaro National Park can also enjoy activities such as game drives, bird watching, and cultural visits to local communities. There are several lodges and campsites located within the park for overnight stays.
Mount Kilimanjaro National Park is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves adventure and nature. With its stunning scenery, unique flora and fauna, and the opportunity to climb Africa’s highest mountain, it is a truly unforgettable experience..
Ngorongoro Conservation Area
Ngorongoro Conservation Area is a unique and spectacular wildlife reserve located in northern Tanzania. This UNESCO World Heritage Site covers an area of 8,300 square kilometers and is home to a diverse range of wildlife and habitats.
At the heart of the conservation area is the Ngorongoro Crater, a massive volcanic caldera that is home to an abundance of wildlife. The crater is one of the world’s largest intact volcanic calderas and is often referred to as the “Eighth Wonder of the World.”
The Ngorongoro Crater is home to a variety of animals, including elephants, lions, leopards, buffalos, zebras, wildebeest, hyenas, and many more. The crater is also home to a high concentration of predators, making it a great place to see hunting action.
In addition to the Ngorongoro Crater, the conservation area also includes vast plains, savannas, forests, and mountain ranges. The conservation area is also home to the Masai people, who have lived in the area for centuries and continue to maintain their traditional way of life.
Visitors to Ngorongoro Conservation Area can enjoy a range of activities, including game drives, walking safaris, and cultural visits to Masai villages. The area is also a popular spot for bird watching, with over 500 species of birds recorded within its borders.
There are several lodges and campsites located within the conservation area for overnight stays, ranging from basic campsites to luxurious lodges. The conservation area is located near other popular tourist destinations in Tanzania, such as the Serengeti National Park and Tarangire National Park, making it a great addition to any safari itinerary.
Ngorongoro Conservation Area is a stunning and unique destination that offers a range of experiences for visitors. With its spectacular scenery, diverse wildlife, and cultural significance, it is a must-visit destination for any nature lover or safari enthusiast.
Southern Tanzania
Embark on a safari to the southern part of Tanzania, where you can explore the Selous Game Reserve, Udzungwa Mountains National Park, and Mikumi and Ruaha National Parks. These parks offer unparalleled game viewing opportunities without the crowds that are often found in the northern parks. In fact, it’s not uncommon for your vehicle to be the only one on the landscape.
In addition to exciting game drives, the southern region of Tanzania boasts diverse habitats ranging from the lush Eastern Arc Forests of the Udzungwa and Uluguru Ranges to the expansive plains of Mikumi and the Selous Game Reserve. Take part in unforgettable activities such as boat safaris, fly camping, and walking tours. At night, fall asleep to the enchanting sounds of lions roaring in the distance.
Selous Game Reserve
The Selous Game Reserve is a vast wilderness area located in southern Tanzania, spanning over 50,000 square kilometers. It is one of the largest protected areas in Africa and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The reserve is named after the famous British explorer and hunter, Frederick Courtney Selous, who was instrumental in establishing it as a protected area in the early 20th century. It is renowned for its pristine wilderness and diverse habitats, including miombo woodlands, riverine forests, swamps, and open savannahs.
The Selous Game Reserve is home to an incredible variety of wildlife, including large herds of elephants, buffalos, zebras, wildebeests, and giraffes. It is also one of the few remaining places where you can find the endangered African wild dog, as well as hippos, crocodiles, and an array of bird species.
Visitors to the Selous Game Reserve can enjoy a range of activities such as game drives, boat safaris, walking tours, and fly camping. The Rufiji River, which flows through the reserve, offers a unique opportunity to explore the wildlife from a different perspective.
With its remote location and unspoiled wilderness, the Selous Game Reserve is the perfect destination for those seeking an authentic African safari experience. The reserve offers a chance to escape the crowds and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Africa, making it a must-visit destination for any wildlife enthusiast.
Ruaha Game Reserve
Ruaha National Park is located in southern Tanzania and is the largest national park in the country, covering over 20,000 square kilometers of pristine wilderness. The park is named after the Ruaha River, which flows through the park and is the lifeblood of the ecosystem.
The park is known for its rugged and untouched landscapes, including rocky outcrops, rolling hills, and open plains. It is home to a vast array of wildlife, including large herds of elephants, buffalos, and zebras, as well as predators such as lions, leopards, and cheetahs. The park is also one of the few places where you can spot the elusive African wild dog.
In addition to its wildlife, Ruaha National Park is home to a diverse range of bird species, making it a birdwatcher’s paradise. The park is also an important breeding ground for various species of birds of prey.
Visitors to Ruaha National Park can enjoy a range of activities, including game drives, walking safaris, and fly camping. The park is also famous for its night game drives, where you can observe nocturnal animals in their natural habitat.
One of the highlights of a visit to Ruaha National Park is the opportunity to experience the park’s rich cultural heritage. The park is home to the semi-nomadic Barabaig people, who have lived in the area for hundreds of years and have a deep connection to the land and its wildlife.
Ruaha National Park is an excellent destination for those seeking an authentic African safari experience, with its vast wilderness, diverse wildlife, and unique cultural heritage making it a must-visit destination for any wildlife enthusiast.
Mikumi National Park
Mikumi National Park is located in southern Tanzania, covering an area of 3,230 square kilometers. It is one of Tanzania’s largest national parks and is easily accessible from Dar es Salaam, making it a popular destination for both local and international visitors.
The park is known for its open grassy plains, baobab trees, and acacia woodlands, providing a beautiful and diverse landscape. The park is home to a wide range of wildlife, including lions, leopards, elephants, zebras, giraffes, and many species of antelope.
One of the highlights of a visit to Mikumi National Park is the opportunity to spot the park’s abundant birdlife, with over 400 species recorded in the area. The park is also known for its population of wild dogs, which are rarely seen in other parts of Tanzania.
Visitors can enjoy a range of activities within the park, including game drives, walking safaris, and bird watching. The park’s stunning landscapes and abundant wildlife make it a great destination for photography enthusiasts.
Mikumi National Park is also close to other popular safari destinations such as Selous Game Reserve and Ruaha National Park, allowing visitors to combine multiple parks into a single itinerary. Additionally, the park is easily accessible by road, making it an ideal destination for self-drive safaris.
Gombe Stream National Park
Gombe Stream National Park is a small but stunning national park located in western Tanzania, covering an area of just 52 square kilometers. It is famous for its population of chimpanzees and is one of the best places in the world to observe these primates in their natural habitat.
The park’s lush forests are home to a diverse range of wildlife, including red colobus monkeys, olive baboons, and over 200 bird species. Visitors can enjoy guided walks through the forests, accompanied by knowledgeable guides who can help spot the park’s abundant wildlife.
The chimpanzees of Gombe Stream National Park are the park’s biggest attraction, with several habituated communities living within the park. Visitors can observe the chimpanzees from a safe distance, watching as they interact with each other and their surroundings. It is a truly unique and unforgettable experience.
In addition to chimpanzee trekking, visitors to Gombe Stream National Park can enjoy a range of other activities, including swimming in the park’s clear waters, bird watching, and hiking through the surrounding hills.
Accommodation within the park is limited, with just a handful of campsites and lodges available. However, this only adds to the park’s charm, allowing visitors to experience the beauty and serenity of the park in a more intimate and authentic way.
Saadani National Park
Saadani National Park is a unique and stunning national park located in eastern Tanzania, along the Indian Ocean. The park covers an area of 1,100 square kilometers and is known for its diverse range of landscapes, from coastal beaches to savannah grasslands and mangrove forests.
One of the park’s biggest attractions is its location along the ocean, offering visitors the opportunity to combine a safari experience with a beach vacation. The park’s beaches are a popular spot for swimming and sunbathing, while the waters are home to a range of marine life, including dolphins, humpback whales, and sea turtles.
In addition to the ocean and beaches, Saadani National Park is also home to a diverse range of wildlife, including elephants, lions, giraffes, and buffalo. Visitors can enjoy game drives through the park’s savannah grasslands and riverine forests, as well as boat safaris along the Wami River, which runs through the park.
The park’s location on the coast also means that it has a rich history, with several historic ruins and sites to explore. The ruins of the 19th century Saadani trading town are a popular attraction, as is the nearby Maziwe Island Marine Reserve, which offers visitors the chance to snorkel and dive among coral reefs.
Accommodation within the park is limited, but there are several lodges and campsites available. Visitors can also stay in nearby towns and villages and take day trips into the park.
Saadani National Park is a unique and stunning destination, offering visitors the chance to combine a safari experience with a beach vacation and explore a range of different landscapes and habitats. Its rich history, diverse wildlife, and beautiful scenery make it a must-visit destination in Tanzania.
