Northern Safari Circuit

Plan your trip to Northern Safari Circuit

The Northern Safari Circuit is Tanzania's premier wildlife destination, featuring the iconic Serengeti, the dramatic Ngorongoro Crater, and Mount Kilimanjaro. This region combines world-class game viewing with cultural experiences and geological wonders, making it essential for any serious safari itinerary.

Getting there & around

Most visitors fly into Arusha's Kilimanjaro International Airport (KIA), Tanzania's main hub for northern tourism. From there, you can rent a 4x4 vehicle with a driver or join organized safari tours that handle all logistics. The circuit's parks are connected by road (4-6 hour drives between major destinations), and internal flights between parks are available for those short on time.

How long to stay

Plan 7-10 days to properly experience the Northern Safari Circuit, allowing 2-3 days each in Serengeti and Ngorongoro plus time for Tarangire, Arusha National Park, and cultural visits. Shorter trips (4-5 days) are possible but rush the experience and miss secondary attractions like Lake Natron and Olduvai Gorge.

When to go

June to October is peak season with dry weather and optimal wildlife viewing, though it's crowded and expensive. December to February offers good game viewing with fewer tourists, while April-May is wet season with lush landscapes but reduced visibility.

Suggested itinerary

1. Arrival in Arusha — Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport and transfer to Arusha, the circuit's main hub. Use the day to settle in, arrange final safari details, and visit Arusha National Park if time permits.
2. Tarangire National Park — Drive to Tarangire (2 hours) and begin game drives featuring large elephant herds, lions, and diverse birdlife. Stay overnight at a lodge within or near the park.
3. Ngorongoro Crater — Travel to Ngorongoro (2-3 hours) and descend into the crater for a full day of wildlife viewing in this natural amphitheater. The crater floor hosts buffalo, wildebeest, zebras, and predators in remarkable density.

Frequently asked questions

How many days do you need in the Northern Safari Circuit?

7-10 days is ideal to visit Serengeti, Ngorongoro, and Tarangire without rushing. Five days covers the main parks but misses secondary sites and cultural experiences like Maasai villages.

Is Mount Kilimanjaro included in a Northern Safari Circuit trip?

No, Kilimanjaro is a separate 5-7 day trek based in Moshi, though the mountain is visible from some safari locations. Most visitors either climb separately or combine it with a shorter safari.

What is the best month to visit the Northern Safari Circuit?

July and August offer the best wildlife viewing with the Great Migration in the Serengeti, though they're peak season and expensive. June and September-October provide excellent game viewing with fewer tourists.

Can you drive yourself in the Northern Safari Circuit?

You can rent a 4x4 and self-drive, but a professional driver-guide is strongly recommended for safety, navigation, and wildlife expertise. Most visitors book organized tours that include accommodation, meals, and guiding.

What is there to do in the Northern Safari Circuit besides game drives?

Visit Olduvai Gorge for paleoanthropology, Lake Natron for flamingos, Gombe Stream for chimpanzee trekking, and arrange Maasai cultural experiences in villages around Ngorongoro. Mount Meru near Arusha offers hiking alternatives to Kilimanjaro.