NORTHERN CIRCUIT SAFARI

10 Day The Northern Circuit Safari

Recommended travel season: Year-round
Short travel description
Price indication
Included in this trip
Guides & safari vehicles
About our tailor-made private safaris
Sustainability

“Embark on an unforgettable wildlife adventure through all of Tanzania’s main national parks and experience the very best of what this incredibly country has to offer.”

On this 10-day private safari, you set off with your personal driverguide and your very own 4×4 safari vehicle. Go on an unforgettable journey through Tanzania’s most renowned national parks; the famous northern circuit. The adventure begins at Arusha National Park, where you’ll experience the thrill of a walking safari and come face to face with its local wildlife wildlife. Next, we’ll venture to Lake Manyara National Park, renowned for its diverse habitats and lush forests, and, if we’re lucky, we’ll catch a glimpse of the thousands of flamingos that frequent the area.

The highlight of our safari is a three-day visit to the vast plains of Serengeti National Park, where you’ll witness the epic great migration, one of the most awe-inspiring events in nature. Continuing our journey, we’ll explore the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, home to the famous Ngorongoro Crater and a high chance to spot the elusive rhinoceros in the wild.

Our adventure concludes at Tarangire National Park, a massive sanctuary famous for its large elephant population and breathtaking baobab trees. Join us for an unforgettable experience that showcases the best of Tanzania’s national parks and wildlife.

Enjoy quality accommodation on a full board basis (daily breakfast, lunch and dinner) and spend your nights under the starry skies of Tanzania.

You can also request a tailor-made safari

Pricing

Eco / Mid-range Accommodations
2 persons (€2785 – €3025,-)  |  4 persons (€2198 – €2370,-)    |  6 persons (€1998 – €2155,-)

Luxury Accommodations
2 persons (€3415 – €3798,-)   |  4 persons (€2830 – €3155,-)    |  6 persons (€2636 – €2940,-)

  • Prices are per person. They may vary due to seasonal and other varying external factors.
  • Discounted rates apply for children under the age of 16.
  • Prices are based on Double Rooms, choosing for a different roomtype may affect the price.

Seasons

  • High Season – July, August & 15th Dec- 15th January
  • Low season –  April & May
  • Mid Season – Rest of the year

This safari includes

  • All transfers (pick-up & drop-offs)
  • Private 4×4 Safari vehicle with pop-up roof, fridge & power sockets
  • Private Experienced, English Speaking Driverguide
  • All overnight stays at the lodges
  • FULL BOARD (3 Meals a day during the safari)
  • Game drives in the national parks
  • Activities (unless mentioned ‘optional’)
  • Parkfees & Government Taxes
  • Ngorongoro Crater fee
  • Unlimited Water, Tea & Coffee during the safari
  • Unlimited Gamemileage
  • 24/7 Available assistent on location
  • €7,50 p.p. contribution towards the GGTO guarantee fund

Not included in this package

  • (Inter)national Flights
  • Visas & (Flying Doctors) Insurance
  • Tips for the driver

* Arusha Trips is a member of the GGTO Guarantee Fund, this means that all your paid travel funds are insured with us. More information? Click here

*International flights can be booked via us if preferred. 

*Taking out travel & cancellation insurance is also possible through us. So you can always travel carefree and well covered, even in corona times. Click here for more information.

Our local guides. We believe that the happiest guides create the most memorable safaris. At Arusha Trips, we only work with local guides who are not only knowledgeable, but truly passionate about their work. We believe that a good guide makes for a good safari, but a great guide makes for an unforgettable one.

All of our guides work incredibly hard and always go the extra mile to make sure you feel right at home. They are great at spotting wildlife and know the parks like the back of their hand. That’s something we’re proud of.

Safari vehicles. For our safaris, we use the latest 4×4 Toyota Landcruisers, capable of overcoming the roughest terrains. All vehicles feature large windows and a pop-up roof to get a 360° view. They come equipped with electricity ports to charge your camera & phone, a fridge for cold beverages, two way radio communication, cushy seats, binoculars, animal books and more. This ensures a comfortable ride anytime, anywhere. We also offer unlimited game-mileage, meaning you can drive as far and as long as you want! 

Why a good car is important: The terrain in Tanzania is rugged and consists of off-road trails that can change from sand to deep mud puddles in a heartbeat. To be fully prepared, we service our cars before every trip, to make sure they are in mint condition. A good car is half the battle and a properly maintained vehicle reduces the chance of breakdowns that could delay your safari.

A private, tailor-made safari is simply the best way to experience Tanzania. 

All of our safaris are 100% Tailor-made. This means we offer personalised travel down to the smallest details. Each day and every accommodation can be tailored to suit the individual needs and interests of your group. From the pinnacle of luxury to a raw, local experience. Anything is possible. 

With a private safari, you have complete control over your own schedule. Your personal safari guide goes wherever you wish. Do you want to spend the whole day looking for that one leopard, or just relax by the pool and gaze at the elephants drinking at the waterhole? It’s up to you!

Together with your personal Tanzania-specialist, you create your ideal safari, one on one. We combine your preferences and wishes with our in-dept knowledge of Tanzania to create that perfect holiday.

Sustainable tourism in Tanzania

As travelers, we want to enjoy our holidays as much as possible, but at the same time we have to consider the environmental impact our journeys may have. Therefore, we try to do as much as we can to keep our environmental footprint to a minimum.

Arusha Trips was founded out of love for nature and wildlife. In fact, our entire business relies on it. Naturally, we want Tanzania’s wildlife to thrive and it’s nature to flourish, so we can continue enjoying its incredible natural wonders for generations to come.

For this reason (and many others), we are actively involved in creating a more sustainable future for the safari industry, without compromising our guests’ experiences. Starting by drastically reducing our plastic usage/waste and opting sustainable alternatives in all aspects of our operations, as well as sharing our knowledge & practices with our local partners.

Want to learn more about how we contribute to a sustainable future for Tanzania? Click here.

Price from

10-Day Private Safari with personal jeep & guide
1998/ p.p.
  • Travel Guarantee (GGTO Guaranteefund)
  • Safe & Flexible Booking
Photo Gallery
Travel Schedule
Travel Route
  • Day 1: Arrival in Tanzania > Transfer to the lodge in Arusha
  • Day 2: Arusha > Arusha National Park (Overnight stay in Arusha)
  • Day 3: Arusha > Lake Manyara National Park (Overnight stay in Mto wa Mbu)
  • Day 4-6: Mto wa Mbu > Serengeti National Park (Overnight stay in Serengeti)
  • Day 7: Serengeti National Park > Ngorongoro Crater (Overnight stay in Mto wa Mbu)
  • Day 8: Mto wa Mbu > Tarangire National Park (Overnight stay in Arusha)
  • Day 9: Arusha > Kilimanjaro International Airport (Flight home)

Travel distances

  • Kilimanjaro Int. Airport to Arusha: 1,5 hours
  • Arusha to Lake Manyara: 2.5 hours
  • Lake Manyara to Serengeti: 3.5 hours
  • Ngorongoro to Mto wa Mbu: 45 min
  • Mto wa Mbu to Tarangire: 1 hour
  • Tarangire to Arusha: 2 hours

Highlights of this journey

  • Experience all the national parks of the Northern Circuit
  • 3 Days Serengeti National Park
  • The Ngorongoro Crater, Lake Manyara & Tarangire National Park
  • Unique walking safari in Arusha National Park
  • Chances of spotting the Big 5
  • Optional balloon safari with champagne breakfast

Ask us for a quote or enquire about your tailor-made travel proposal.

Day by day itinerary

Day 1: Home - Kilimanjaro International Airport

Karibu Tanzania

Once you set foot on Tanzanian soil and leave Kilimanjaro Airport, you will be immediately embraced by the friendly and inviting ‘hakuna matata’ atmosphere of Tanzania.

Outside, your dedicated driver awaits you with a broad smile, ready to accompany you to the lodge where you’ll recieve a heartfelt welcome. During the journey, you will catch a glimpse of Tanzania’s stunning landscapes and perhaps even the impressive Mt. Kilimanjaro. Upon arrival, we will provide a briefing on tomorrow’s program while enjoying a delightful local drink.

Karibu Sana! (You’re most welcome)

OVERNIGHT STAYS (CLICK TO VIEW)

Day 2: Arusha National Park

Walkin' in the wild

Get ready for a unique and thrilling experience as we put on our hiking boots and head out for a walking safari in Arusha National Park! Located just a short 30-minute drive away from Arusha Town, this park is home to a variety of wildlife including giraffes, buffalos, zebras, black and white colobus monkeys, and a wide range of birds. During our walk, we’ll be accompanied by an armed ranger who will guide and protect us as we come face-to-face with these incredible animals.

Arusha National Park is divided into three districts, each offering its own unique landscape and sights to explore. The Momella Lakes district, for instance, is home to thousands of flamingos that migrate between Lake Manyara and here, providing an unforgettable sight during the right time of year. Additionally, the Mount Meru and Ngurdoto Crater districts boast their own unique natural wonders, all located at the foot of the impressive Mount Meru.

OVERNIGHT STAYS (CLICK TO VIEW)

Day 3: Arusha - Lake Manyara National Park

Lions in trees, pools of hippos and bathing flamingos

After a 2-hour drive we’ll enter Lake Manyara national park. One of Tanzania’s smaller national parks, named after the huge lake that covers most of the area. Yet, Lake Manyara is one of the parks with the greatest variety of landscapes… and an abundance of wildlife. 

You may find yourself in thick woodlands where elephants feast and lions are lurking among the tree branches. Ride past muddy pools full of hippos, mysterious jungle areas where monkeys rule and the lakeside…. where thousands of vibrant flamingos make their summer homes.

And don’t forget the impressive 400-meter-deep Rift Valley Escarpment. A crack in the earth that stretches for thousands of kilometers across East Africa.

OVERNIGHT STAYS (CLICK TO VIEW)

Let us plan your Tanzania adventure!

Ask us for a quote or enquire about your tailor-made travel proposal. We'll be in touch within 24 hours.
DAY 4: Serengeti National Park

Lion's territory!

Rise and shine! We’ll start our safari early in the morning with a delicious breakfast, before embarking on a short drive from our lodge into the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. This is our gateway to the stunning Serengeti National Park, one of the largest and most diverse parks in Tanzania.

Serengeti National Park is renowned for its vast plains, which are home to numourus predators, including over 3000 lions, cheetahs, leopards and many other animals. As we explore the park, we’ll be on the lookout for these magnificent creatures and soak in the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes.

As the day draws to a close, you’ll witness a unique and unforgettable sunset over the vast plains of Serengeti. When night falls, we’ll gather by the fire and be surrounded by the sounds of the local wildlife, while the flames provide a safe and cozy place to relax. Have you ever heard the roar of a leopard at night?

OVERNIGHT STAYS (CLICK TO VIEW)

Day 5 & 6: Serengeti National Park

Serengeti's great plains

A typical day in the Serengeti begins with a sunrise safari, when the animals are most active and you have the best chance of witnessing some thilling predator-prey action straight out of National Geographic. Here, you may come face to face with the top predators that rule these plains, such as lions, cheetahs, leopards, hyenas, and more.

For the rest of the day, we’ll explore the vast expanse of the Serengeti, and, if we’re lucky to be there at the right time of year, witness the great migration – the undisputed highlight of any safari!

For a different perspective, you can opt to take a balloon safari over the Serengeti’s impressive plains and spot wildlife from above. This early morning experience comes complete with a champagne breakfast, making your trip even more unforgettable.

OVERNIGHT STAYS (CLICK TO VIEW)

Day 7: Ngorongoro Crater

Into the Crater! Spot the BIG 5

After breakfast, we will drive towards a steep and narrow road that takes you into the Ngorongoro crater. A bumpy, but adventureous road with some beautiful views! The slopes are forested, but soon the landscape changes to savannah.

Down in the crater, you’ll be able to spot many animals from a distance. Here is your best chance to spot all the members of the Big 5, including the endangered black rhino!  

After the first gamedrive we’ll have a relaxing picknick-lunch at a hippo-filled lake. After lunch, we’ll slowly drive back to the edge of the crater and stop whenever we pass an interesting sight!

OVERNIGHT STAYS (CLICK TO VIEW)

Day 8: Tarangire National Park

In elephants' footsteps

Tarangire National Park is named after the Tarangire River that flows through its borders. One of its main highlights is undoubtedly the large herds of majestic elephants, who thrive on the abundant food sources available, making them bigger and stronger than in any other place!

The park’s landscape is also filled with many ancient baobab trees, which add a unique and stunning beauty to the landscape.

Keep your eyes peeled as you explore the park, and you may also spot lions, leopards, cheetahs, caracals, giraffes, waterbucks, dik-diks, impalas, elands, Grant’s gazelles, baboons, monkeys, and more.

 

OVERNIGHT STAYS (CLICK TO VIEW)

DAY 9 & 10: Arusha - Kilimanjaro International Airport - Home

Kwaheri Tanzania (Goodbye Tanzania)

The safari is sadly over, but today you can finally sleep in, relax and enjoy your last hours of Tanzania’s incredible beauty and renowned hospitality.

At the end of the day, your guide will be waiting for you once more, for a wonderful farewell. Today you will leave not only with your bags, but also with a head full of everlasting memories, incredible experiences and jaw-dropping stories for your friends and family back home.

Safe Flight! 

Tip: Extend your holiday with a visit to one of Tanzania’s tropical islands such as Zanzibar, Mafia or Pemba Island. 

Welcome to Tanzania from Arusha Trips

Day by day itinerary

Day 1: Home - Kilimanjaro International AirportKaribu Tanzania

Once you set foot on Tanzanian soil and leave Kilimanjaro Airport, you will be immediately embraced by the friendly and inviting ‘hakuna matata’ atmosphere of Tanzania.

Outside, your dedicated driver awaits you with a broad smile, ready to accompany you to the lodge where you’ll recieve a heartfelt welcome. During the journey, you will catch a glimpse of Tanzania’s stunning landscapes and perhaps even the impressive Mt. Kilimanjaro. Upon arrival, we will provide a briefing on tomorrow’s program while enjoying a delightful local drink.

Karibu Sana! (You’re most welcome)


Lodging options (click to view)

Day 2: Arusha National ParkWalkin' in the wild

Get ready for a unique and thrilling experience as we put on our hiking boots and head out for a walking safari in Arusha National Park! Located just a short 30-minute drive away from Arusha Town, this park is home to a variety of wildlife including giraffes, buffalos, zebras, black and white colobus monkeys, and a wide range of birds. During our walk, we’ll be accompanied by an armed ranger who will guide and protect us as we come face-to-face with these incredible animals.

Arusha National Park is divided into three districts, each offering its own unique landscape and sights to explore. The Momella Lakes district, for instance, is home to thousands of flamingos that migrate between Lake Manyara and here, providing an unforgettable sight during the right time of year. Additionally, the Mount Meru and Ngurdoto Crater districts boast their own unique natural wonders, all located at the foot of the impressive Mount Meru.


Lodging options (click to view)

Day 3: Arusha - Lake Manyara National ParkLions in trees, pools of hippos and bathing flamingos

After a 2-hour drive we’ll enter Lake Manyara national park. One of Tanzania’s smaller national parks, named after the huge lake that covers most of the area. Yet, Lake Manyara is one of the parks with the greatest variety of landscapes… and an abundance of wildlife. 

You may find yourself in thick woodlands where elephants feast and lions are lurking among the tree branches. Ride past muddy pools full of hippos, mysterious jungle areas where monkeys rule and the lakeside…. where thousands of vibrant flamingos make their summer homes.

And don’t forget the impressive 400-meter-deep Rift Valley Escarpment. A crack in the earth that stretches for thousands of kilometers across East Africa.


Lodging options (click to view)

DAY 4: Serengeti National ParkLion's territory!

Rise and shine! We’ll start our safari early in the morning with a delicious breakfast, before embarking on a short drive from our lodge into the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. This is our gateway to the stunning Serengeti National Park, one of the largest and most diverse parks in Tanzania.

Serengeti National Park is renowned for its vast plains, which are home to numourus predators, including over 3000 lions, cheetahs, leopards and many other animals. As we explore the park, we’ll be on the lookout for these magnificent creatures and soak in the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes.

As the day draws to a close, you’ll witness a unique and unforgettable sunset over the vast plains of Serengeti. When night falls, we’ll gather by the fire and be surrounded by the sounds of the local wildlife, while the flames provide a safe and cozy place to relax. Have you ever heard the roar of a leopard at night?


Lodging options (click to view)

Day 5 & 6: Serengeti National ParkSerengeti's great plains

A typical day in the Serengeti begins with a sunrise safari, when the animals are most active and you have the best chance of witnessing some thilling predator-prey action straight out of National Geographic. Here, you may come face to face with the top predators that rule these plains, such as lions, cheetahs, leopards, hyenas, and more.

For the rest of the day, we’ll explore the vast expanse of the Serengeti, and, if we’re lucky to be there at the right time of year, witness the great migration – the undisputed highlight of any safari!

For a different perspective, you can opt to take a balloon safari over the Serengeti’s impressive plains and spot wildlife from above. This early morning experience comes complete with a champagne breakfast, making your trip even more unforgettable.


Lodging options (click to view)

Day 7: Ngorongoro CraterInto the Crater! Spot the BIG 5

After breakfast, we will drive towards a steep and narrow road that takes you into the Ngorongoro crater. A bumpy, but adventureous road with some beautiful views! The slopes are forested, but soon the landscape changes to savannah.

Down in the crater, you’ll be able to spot many animals from a distance. Here is your best chance to spot all the members of the Big 5, including the endangered black rhino!  

After the first gamedrive we’ll have a relaxing picknick-lunch at a hippo-filled lake. After lunch, we’ll slowly drive back to the edge of the crater and stop whenever we pass an interesting sight!


Lodging options (click to view)

Day 8: Tarangire National ParkIn elephants' footsteps

Tarangire National Park is named after the Tarangire River that flows through its borders. One of its main highlights is undoubtedly the large herds of majestic elephants, who thrive on the abundant food sources available, making them bigger and stronger than in any other place!

The park’s landscape is also filled with many ancient baobab trees, which add a unique and stunning beauty to the landscape.

Keep your eyes peeled as you explore the park, and you may also spot lions, leopards, cheetahs, caracals, giraffes, waterbucks, dik-diks, impalas, elands, Grant’s gazelles, baboons, monkeys, and more.


Lodging options (click to view)

DAY 9/10: Arusha - Kilimanjaro International Airport - HomeKwaheri Tanzania (Goodbye Tanzania)

Welcome to Tanzania from Arusha TripsThe safari is sadly over, but today you can finally sleep in, relax and enjoy your last hours of Tanzania’s incredible beauty and renowned hospitality.

At the end of the day, your guide will be waiting for you once more, for a wonderful farewell. Today you will leave not only with your bags, but also with a head full of everlasting memories, incredible experiences and jaw-dropping stories for your friends and family back home.

Safe Flight! 

Tip: Extend your holiday with a visit to one of Tanzania’s tropical islands such as Zanzibar, Mafia or Pemba Island

Where will you spend the night?

Choose from a variety of thoughtfully selected accommodation options across different price ranges.

A unique journey calls for unique accommodations. At Arusha Trips we choose only the most characteristic, small-scale lodges and tentedcamps for our safaris. Our team personally tests each lodge to ensure they meet our high standards, guaranteeing you the best safari experience possible. We evaluate their location efficiency, ‘wildlife-experience’, room quality, service, and of course, their safari-factor! Whether you have a specific budget or travel style, we have the perfect lodge for you.

*Kindly note that we have a wide selection of accommodations throughout Tanzania, and the ones mentioned below are just some of our recommended suggestions. We can tailor the accommodations to suit your specific preferences.

Mid-range / Eco Stays

/Enquire From €1998,- p.p.

Optional activities

Extend your safari by adding extra activities related to your travel route

Discover more trips

How to request a safari?

Tailor made safari 1

 1. REQUEST A TAILOR-MADE SAFARI

Tailor made safari 2

2. CALL WITH US ABOUT YOUR TRAVEL PLANS

3. CO-CREATE YOUR DREAMSAFARI

Tailor made safari 4

4. PACK YOUR STUFF, SAFARI NJEMA!

Why travel to Tanzania with Arusha Trips

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