Northern Tanzania Circuit
The Serengeti. Ngorongoro Crater. Tarangire. Four of Africa's most iconic parks in one circuit. Departing Arusha and Moshi.
The classic East African safari. The wildlife density here is real.
The Northern circuit is where most first-time safari visitors go, and for good reason. The Serengeti is one of the last places on earth where you can witness the Great Wildebeest Migration. Ngorongoro Crater holds 25,000 animals inside a single volcanic caldera. Tarangire has the highest elephant density of any park in Tanzania.
We run this circuit ourselves from Arusha and Moshi. The roads between parks are well-maintained and distances are manageable within 5 to 8 days. It is the most straightforward circuit to plan and the most visited, which means the lodges, guides, and infrastructure are the most developed in the country.
Five parks. One circuit.
Each park in the Northern circuit offers something different. You do not need to visit all of them in one trip.
Serengeti National Park
Home of the Great Migration. The largest wildlife destination in Africa.
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Ngorongoro Crater
The world's largest intact volcanic caldera. Over 25,000 animals on a single crater floor.
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Tarangire National Park
Tanzania's largest elephant herds. Ancient baobabs. Far fewer vehicles than the Serengeti.
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Lake Manyara National Park
Tree-climbing lions. Up to 400 flamingos on an alkaline lake. One hour from Arusha.
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Arusha National Park
Three landscapes, seven alkaline lakes, and Mount Meru. Less than an hour from the city of Arusha.
Read moreNorthern Tanzania Packages
All packages include guide, vehicle, park fees, accommodation, and meals.
Packages for this circuit coming soon.
When to visit Northern Tanzania
The Northern circuit is accessible year-round. Timing affects wildlife concentration and crowd levels.
Dry season
June to October
The dry season brings the best game viewing. Vegetation is sparse so animals are easy to spot. The Great Wildebeest Migration river crossings happen at the Mara River in July and August. This is the busiest period in the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater.
Green season
November to May
The short rains in November and December are usually light and do not disrupt travel. January and February are excellent for wildlife with fewer visitors and lower prices. March through May brings heavier rains and some road closures, particularly in the Serengeti.
Right for you if
- Exceptional wildlife density across all parks in the circuit.
- The Great Migration river crossings are among the most dramatic wildlife events on earth.
- Well-developed lodge infrastructure across all budget levels.
- Shorter transfers between parks compared to the Southern circuit.
- Best circuit for first-time safari visitors who want guaranteed Big Five sightings.
Not right for you if
- The Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater are busy with vehicles during peak season (July to September).
- Prices are higher than the Southern circuit, particularly for lodges near the crater.
- The circuit is heavily marketed internationally, which affects the atmosphere at popular sighting spots.
- Not the right choice if you want an empty wilderness feeling.