Imagine embarking on a thrilling safari adventure that allows you to descend into the vast, volcanic Ngorongoro Crater, observe the “Big 5” animals in their natural habitat, witness the world’s greatest natural spectacle of wildebeest migration in Serengeti, and spot tree-climbing lions in Lake Manyara National Park.
You can experience all these wonders and more when you visit Northern Tanzania. In this article, the Pros4Planet Editorial Team will guide you through the six must-visit safari destinations in Northern Tanzania.
Have a great time exploring!
1. Serengeti National Park: The Epitome of African Safari
Serengeti National Park is part of a wildlife-teemed ecosystem in Northern Tanzania, encompassing the regions of Arusha and Mara.
Home to the Great Migration, Serengeti is one of the few places left on earth where a visitor can witness the wonders of Mother Nature in action.
With over 2 million ungulates and numerous African cats like lions, leopards, and cheetahs, the game viewing opportunities are endless.
At Pros4Planet, our destination experts divide Serengeti Tours and Safaris into two main areas: Central Serengeti and Northern Serengeti. Both offer unforgettable experiences, but it is in the latter that you will witness the world’s greatest wildlife spectacle. Timing is crucial, however.
It’s hard to describe just how incredible Serengeti National Park is. The best advice we can give is to think of Serengeti when you think of African safari. It truly is a safari epitome.
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2. Ngorongoro Crater: The Eden of Africa, Populated with the Big 5
Ngorongoro Crater, located in Northern Tanzania, is considered by many as the Eden of Africa due to its exceptional natural beauty and unique features. This World Heritage Site is also one of the Seven Natural Wonders of Africa and the largest unbroken caldera in the world. Need another reason to visit Ngorongoro?
The history of this crater dates back about 2.5 million years, and it offers a unique mixture of natural beauty, cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and archaeological treasures. It is also home to the densest wildlife populations on earth, including the Big 5 (lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant, and buffalo), making Ngorongoro an ideal place to see all the Big Five.
In addition to remarkable game drives, you can enjoy a wide range of activities such as bush dining, safaris of different types, cultural tours, archaeological expeditions, and much more.
Whether you visit Ngorongoro as a standalone trip or combine it with other popular safari destinations like Serengeti, Tarangire, and Lake Manyara, Pros4Planet can help you plan an unforgettable experience.
Ngorongoro Articles and Links
Discover the Best Tours and Safaris in Ngorongoro Crater
Select the Top Ngorongoro Crater Day Trips From Arusha City
3. Tarangire National Park: See a Large Number of Animals Gathering at the Riverbanks
Tarangire National Park was christened for its most unique feature — the River Tarangire — for a good reason. During the dry season which starts from June to October, large concentrations of elephants and other wild animals migrate to the park in search of water and food.
Though overshadowed by that of Serengeti, this wildlife migration makes the Tarangire River a lifesaver for the park’s wildlife while giving travelers a rare opportunity to witness plenty of animals gathered in one place. As a result, the Tarangire Riverbanks present a prime location for wildlife watching.
Beyond the elephant-dominated migration, the park is also a captivating destination for bird watchers and those who appreciate stunning landscapes. You’ll find everything from open plains and riverine forests to massive swamp areas and baobab trees decorating the Tarangire skyline.
Even better, Tarangire is one of the less-crowded parks in the Northern Safari Circuit, so you won’t have to compete with crowds to see all the sights.
One to three days can be enough for this park. However, you can easily combine a visit to Tarangire with neighboring safari destinations such as Lake Manyara National Park and the Ngorongoro Crater. Additionally, it’s common to participate in cultural activities in community lands outside of the park, which we also highly recommend! And our destination experts are HERE to assist you.
Discover the Best Tours and Safaris in Tarangire National Park
4. Lake Manyara National Park: Where Lions Climb Trees!
To experience the northern Tanzania Safari Circuit differently, visit Manyara National Park. It’s the perfect place to spot tree-climbing lions resting on horizontally shaped branches of tall trees. It is a sight you won’t find anywhere else.
But that’s not all – Manyara National Park is also home to a diverse range of animals, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking to blend wildlife experience with bird watching. Why?
When you visit the soda ash Lake Manyara, you’ll be able to spot thousands of beautiful bird species, including flamingos, pelicans, and storks. The lush green park is also known for its scenic beauty, amplified by the Rift Valley escarpment in the distance. The views are truly mesmerizing and photogenic.
In addition to game driving, the park has plenty of unique activities to offer. From nature walking tours amidst the evergreen groundwater forests to tree canopy walkways, Lake Manyara National Park is a great place to experience nature up close and personal.
Whether you decide to explore Lake Manyara National Park on its own or combine it with the neighboring Tarangire National Park and the Ngorongoro Crater, be sure to have an unforgettable safari experience.
Discover the Best Lake Manyara Tours and Safaris
5. Mount Kilimanjaro National Park: A Superlative Natural Phenomenon
Why is Mount Kilimanjaro National Park a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts?
The park is home to the famous Mount Kilimanjaro, which stands tall at 5,895 m above sea level. It is the highest point in Africa, and conquering it is a dream of many.
Mount Kilimanjaro National Park boasts unique combination features, including its three volcanic cones, snow caps, glaciers, multiple vegetation zones, and diverse wildlife. Not surprisingly, UNESCO recognizes the park as a superlative natural phenomenon with Outstanding Universal Value.
Unlike other famous trekking destinations, Kilimanjaro combines hiking with a safari experience in the breathtaking plains, overlooking the savannah. And the neighboring Arusha National Park is one the perfect spots to catch some of the mountain’s most stunning views.
Hiking is the most popular adventure in Kilimanjaro National Park, and there are seven routes to choose from that cater to seasoned hikers and rookies alike. If you’re planning a Kilimanjaro trip, it’s best to consult with a Destination Expert to discuss your preferences and interests.
Apart from hiking, there are several other tourist activities in the park, ranging from one-day trips to multiple-day tours.
Mount Kilimanjaro National Park is conveniently accessible from Moshi Town, Arusha City, and Kilimanjaro International Airport (KIA), making it an ideal destination for anyone visiting Northern Tanzania.
Kilimanjaro Articles and Links
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Top Kilimanjaro Hiking Tours You Don’t Want to Miss
6. Arusha National Park: The Closest Gem to the Safari Capital of Africa
Arusha National Park is a perfect destination for anyone visiting Northern Tanzania — whether for travel, business, or any other purpose. It is easily accessible within a 45-minute drive from Arusha City – the Safari Capital of Africa, and you can also access it from Kilimanjaro International Airport (KIA) or Moshi Town.
One of the park’s main attractions is Ngurdoto Crater, surrounded by viewpoints that provide spectacular views of the forest, Mount Meru, and its neighboring giant, Mount Kilimanjaro. Visitors can explore other stunning features, including Serengeti Ndogo (Little Serengeti) and Momella Lakes.
As Arusha National Park lies at the foot of Mount Meru, Tanzania’s second-highest mountain, it serves as an excellent starting point for anyone who wants to hike the mountain. The four-day hike to the summit is a popular trip you can embark on from Momella Gate.
The park is home to rich biodiversity concentrated within a small area of approximately 552 square kilometers, which means visitors can explore different habitats and get the most out of their exploration in just a few hours.
Due to its easy accessibility and rich habitats, Arusha National Park is ideal for day trips.
As hikers can climb Mount Meru to warm up before taking on the highest-altitude Kilimanjaro challenge, safari-goers can include Arusha National Park in their extended northern safari.
Discover the Best Arusha National Park Tours and Safaris
READY TO EXPLORE THE NORTHERN TANZANIA SAFARI CIRCUIT?
Here are the 6 best safari destinations in Northern Tanzania:
- Serengeti National Park: The Epitome of African Safari
- Ngorongoro Crater: The Eden of Africa, Populated with the Big 5
- Tarangire National Park: See a Large Number of Animals Gathering at the Riverbanks
- Lake Manyara National Park: Where Lions Climb Trees!
- Mount Kilimanjaro National Park: A Superlative Natural Phenomenon
- Arusha National Park: The Closest Gem to the Safari Capital of Africa
To plan an unforgettable safari trip to Northern Tanzania, choose a destination that suits your interests and preferences. As highlighted in this guide, each national park or conservation area in the region boasts unique features and wildlife. You can also plan an extended trip that includes multiple destinations and get the most out of your safari experience.
At this point, let’s mention one important safari tip: you can blend your Northern Tanzania Safari with trips to off-the-beaten-path national parks such as Ruaha and Nyerere or a relaxing beach vacation in Zanzibar. Tanzania as a safari destination has it all.
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