The most popular safari circuit featuring iconic parks like Serengeti and Ngorongoro.
National Parks & Conservation Areas
Discover 5 incredible wildlife destinations in the Northern Circuit
Lake Manyara National Park
Famous for its tree-climbing lions and diverse ecosystems from groundwater forest to shallow alkaline lake, Lake Manyara offers incredible wildlife density in a compact area. The park showcases flamingo flocks, massive elephant herds, hippos, and over 400 bird species making it a birdwatcher paradise. Its dramatic Rift Valley escarpment backdrop creates stunning photographic opportunities. Despite being one of Tanzania smaller national parks at 330 square kilometers, Manyara delivers exceptional wildlife viewing experiences, particularly during dry season when animals concentrate around permanent water sources and the famous tree-climbing lions lounge in acacia branches creating unforgettable safari memories.
Ngorongoro Conservation Area
UNESCO World Heritage Site encompasses world largest intact volcanic caldera spanning 260 square kilometers of pristine wilderness where approximately 25,000 large animals live within crater walls. This natural amphitheater creates unparalleled wildlife viewing with all Big Five visible in single game drive. Permanent water sources support resident populations including rare black rhinos, massive-tusked elephants, and dense predator concentrations. The crater floor diverse habitats range from grasslands to swamps to acacia forests. Maasai pastoralists graze cattle alongside wildlife in unique conservation model. Archaeological sites at Olduvai Gorge nearby reveal human evolutionary history. Breathtaking viewpoints from rim overlook this Eden-like ecosystem.
Serengeti National Park
Tanzania most celebrated national park spans 14,750 square kilometers of endless golden plains where dramatic wildlife spectacles unfold year-round. The legendary Great Migration sees over two million wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles traverse the ecosystem following seasonal rains creating one of nature most magnificent phenomena. Dense predator populations including lions, leopards, cheetahs, and hyenas thrive across diverse habitats from kopjes to riverine forests. The Seronera region offers exceptional year-round game viewing. The Western Corridor features dramatic river crossings during migration season. Ndutu area hosts spectacular calving season gatherings. UNESCO World Heritage status recognizes outstanding universal value.
Tarangire National Park
Famous for hosting Tanzania largest elephant populations and ancient baobab trees creating iconic African landscapes, Tarangire offers exceptional wildlife viewing especially during June-October dry season when animals concentrate around Tarangire River. Over 550 bird species make this ornithological paradise. Diverse habitats from seasonal swamps to acacia woodlands support large populations of buffalo, wildebeest, zebras, and giraffes. Pythons climb trees here—a unique phenomenon. Tree-climbing lions occasionally spotted. The park quieter atmosphere compared to Serengeti provides intimate safari experiences. Enormous baobab trees some over 1,000 years old dominate landscapes. Walking safaris and night drives available. Seasonal wetlands attract spectacular waterbird gatherings.
Arusha National Park
Tanzania most accessible national park offers breathtaking Mount Meru views, diverse habitats from montane rainforest to alpine desert, and unique walking safari opportunities rarely available elsewhere. Located just 40 minutes from Arusha town, this varied park showcases graceful giraffes, endangered colobus monkey troops, vibrant flamingo populations in Momella Lakes, and over 400 recorded bird species. The dramatic Ngurdoto Crater provides spectacular panoramic viewpoints compared to miniature Ngorongoro, while lush montane forests harbor rich birdlife and primates. Perfect for travelers with limited time seeking authentic intimate safari experiences with excellent wildlife viewing close to urban amenities and airport access.
Other Destinations
Additional destinations and areas to explore in the Northern Circuit
Lake Eyasi
A shallow seasonal lake offering authentic cultural experiences with the last hunter-gatherer Hadzabe tribe and Datoga pastoralists, Lake Eyasi provides insights into ancient lifestyles. The lake attracts diverse birdlife and wildlife during wet seasons, while surrounding areas host traditional communities maintaining ancestral practices. Visitors can join Hadzabe hunters using poisoned arrows and learn fire-making techniques unchanged for millennia. The Datoga blacksmiths demonstrate bronze jewelry crafting. This off-the-beaten-path destination combines cultural immersion with scenic beauty in the Great Rift Valley.
Lake Natron
This otherworldly alkaline lake with striking red and pink hues is the only regular breeding ground for East Africa millions of lesser flamingos, creating spectacular wildlife gatherings during breeding season. The caustic soda lake with pH reaching 10.5 creates harsh environments where few species survive, yet supports specialized flamingo populations nesting on salt islands. The dramatic landscape features volcanic ash plains, hot springs, and sacred active volcano Ol Doinyo Lengai rising nearby. Adventure seekers enjoy waterfall hikes at Engare Sero, flamingo viewing, volcano climbing, and authentic Maasai cultural encounters in this remote wilderness region of northern Tanzania showcasing nature extremes.