Tanzania's Two Great Safari Circuits
Tanzania's national parks divide naturally into two geographic safari circuits: the Northern Circuit, centred around Arusha, and the Southern Circuit, accessible primarily from Dar es Salaam. Both are world-class. Both offer extraordinary wildlife. They are simply very different experiences — and understanding those differences will help you choose the right circuit for your safari.
The Northern Circuit: Tanzania's Classic Safari Route
The Northern Circuit is Tanzania's most visited and most celebrated safari route. It encompasses the Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire National Park, and Lake Manyara — four of Africa's greatest wildlife destinations within a few hours' drive of each other from Arusha.
The Southern Circuit: Tanzania's Wild Secret
The Southern Circuit encompasses Nyerere National Park (formerly Selous Game Reserve), Ruaha National Park, and Mikumi National Park. These are among Africa's largest and most remote protected areas — rarely visited and extraordinarily rewarding.
Questions from the notebook
Can I combine the Northern and Southern Circuit?
Yes — and Lucky Wild Safaris' 8-Day Tanzania Explorer combines highlights of both.
TAKE THE NEXT STEP
What would this look like for you?
Bring your questions to our Arusha team. We’ll help you turn the reading into a route, with the practical details written down.
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