Classic Northern Circuit Luxury Safari
The quintessential Tanzania safari experience through iconic parks
Tour Overview
Embark on the ultimate Tanzania safari adventure through the legendary Northern Circuit. This carefully crafted 8-day journey takes you through some of Africa's most iconic wildlife destinations, from the elephant-rich plains of Tarangire to the world-famous Serengeti.
Your adventure begins in the vibrant town of Arusha, gateway to Tanzania's northern parks. From here, you'll travel to Tarangire National Park, renowned for its ancient baobab trees and massive elephant herds - over 3,000 elephants call this park home, making it one of the best places in Africa to observe these magnificent creatures.
Continue to Lake Manyara, a compact gem described by Ernest Hemingway as "the loveliest [lake] in Africa." The park is famous for its tree-climbing lions, found nowhere else in East Africa with such frequency. The alkaline lake draws thousands of flamingos during the wet season, creating unforgettable pink-tinged vistas.
Descend into the Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Africa's Seven Natural Wonders. This 600-meter-deep volcanic caldera is home to approximately 25,000 large animals, including the highest density of lions in Africa and the critically endangered black rhino. Enjoy a full day of game viewing in this natural amphitheater, where Big Five sightings are almost guaranteed.
Your safari culminates in the legendary Serengeti, home to the greatest wildlife spectacle on Earth. Spend two unforgettable days in this endless plain, tracking lions, leopards, cheetahs, and during the right season, witnessing the Great Migration of over two million wildebeest and zebras.
Throughout your journey, you'll stay at handpicked luxury lodges and tented camps, each offering exceptional service, gourmet cuisine, and unforgettable bush experiences. Your private guide and 4x4 vehicle ensure an intimate, personalized safari experience.
Tour Highlights
Your Journey
8 DaysArrival in Arusha - Gateway to Safari
Welcome to Tanzania! Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you will be met by your personal safari guide and transferred to your luxury hotel in Arusha. Depending on your arrival time, enjoy the rest of the day at leisure to relax and acclimatize. In the evening, meet your guide for a detailed safari briefing over dinner.
Arusha to Tarangire National Park
After breakfast, depart for Tarangire National Park, famous for its giant baobab trees and large elephant herds. The park is home to over 3,000 elephants, making it one of the best places in Africa to see these magnificent creatures up close. Enjoy afternoon game drives along the Tarangire River, where wildlife congregates during the dry season.
Tarangire to Lake Manyara National Park
Continue your safari to Lake Manyara National Park, a compact gem described by Ernest Hemingway as the loveliest in Africa. The park is renowned for its tree-climbing lions, a unique behavior rarely seen elsewhere. Explore diverse habitats from groundwater forests to the soda lake shore, home to thousands of flamingos.
Lake Manyara to Ngorongoro Crater
Drive to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, ascending to the crater rim for breathtaking views. Settle into your lodge perched on the crater's edge, offering spectacular vistas of this ancient caldera. Afternoon at leisure to enjoy the lodge amenities or take a guided nature walk along the crater rim.
Ngorongoro Crater Floor Exploration
Descend 600 meters into the Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Africa's Seven Natural Wonders. This natural amphitheater is home to approximately 25,000 large animals, including the highest density of lions in Africa and the endangered black rhino. Spend the full day exploring this unique ecosystem with a picnic lunch by the hippo pool.
Ngorongoro to Serengeti National Park
Journey across the stunning Ngorongoro Highlands to the Serengeti, stopping at Olduvai Gorge, one of the most important paleoanthropological sites in the world. Enter the Serengeti through the Naabi Hill Gate and begin game viewing immediately. The endless plains are home to the largest concentration of plains game in Africa.
Full Day Serengeti Safari
Spend a full day exploring the Serengeti's diverse ecosystems. Track lions, leopards, and cheetahs across the vast plains. If visiting during migration season (December-July), witness the spectacular movement of over two million wildebeest and zebras. Optional early morning hot-air balloon safari (additional cost) followed by champagne bush breakfast.
Serengeti to Arusha - Departure
Enjoy a final early morning game drive before flying back to Arusha (scenic flight included). Upon arrival, transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your onward journey, or extend your stay with a Zanzibar beach holiday.
What's Included
- Meet and greet at Kilimanjaro International Airport
- 7 nights luxury lodge/tented camp accommodation
- All meals as specified (Full Board)
- Private 4x4 Land Cruiser with pop-up roof
- Professional English-speaking safari guide
- All park entrance fees and crater service fees
- Government taxes and levies
- Unlimited game drives
- Complimentary bottled water during game drives
- Flying Doctors emergency evacuation insurance
- All ground transfers
Not Included
- International and domestic flights
- Visa fees ($50 for most nationalities)
- Travel insurance (mandatory)
- Gratuities for guide and lodge staff
- Premium drinks and champagne
- Hot-air balloon safari ($600 per person)
- Personal expenses and souvenirs
- Optional Zanzibar beach extension
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