Tanzania Safari Packages Guide: Northern Circuit, Southern Parks and Zanzibar

Tanzania is large and varied, so the order of parks, the length of drives and the choice of camp matter a great deal. A well-planned package keeps time on the road reasonable and positions you where the wildlife is at the time of your visit.

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This guide is part of our East Africa travel guides. When you are ready to plan, see our Uganda safari packages or the Ameera Africa Safaris Uganda tours homepage.

The Northern Circuit

The northern circuit is the most visited route. Tarangire is known for elephants and baobabs, Lake Manyara for birdlife and tree-climbing lions in some seasons, Ngorongoro for dense wildlife inside the crater, and the Serengeti for endless plains and the migration. Most itineraries start and end in Arusha. See Tanzania northern circuit safari.

Southern and Western Parks

Ruaha, Nyerere (formerly part of the Selous), Mikumi and Katavi are quieter and often reached by light aircraft. They suit repeat visitors and travellers who prefer fewer vehicles. Katavi in particular is remote and wild. See Katavi National Park.

Following the Migration

The wildebeest migration moves in a loop through the Serengeti and into the Mara. Calving usually occurs in the southern Serengeti early in the year, river crossings happen in the north from roughly July to October. Ask operators how they position camps to match the herd.

Lodges, Camps and Concessions

Options include permanent lodges, tented camps, mobile camps and private concessions. Mobile camps move with the migration. Concessions allow walking and night drives. Choose according to your interests. See private concessions and walking safaris.

Choosing Camps by Location

Within the Serengeti, camps in the south, centre, west and north see different wildlife through the year. Ask where your camp sits relative to the herds during your dates. Tarangire and Manyara are short drives from Arusha and suit short itineraries. Ngorongoro lodges perch on the crater rim with spectacular views, while crater floor drives require early starts.

Extensions and Add-Ons

Add a cultural visit with Maasai or Hadza communities, a Kilimanjaro day hike, a balloon flight over the Serengeti or a stay on Zanzibar. Think about how each add-on fits your energy and time. See Serengeti balloon safari.

Checking What Is Included

Confirm park fees, concession fees, airport transfers, meals, drinks, laundry and flights. Ask whether Serengeti fees apply per night and whether crater fees are included. See how many nights you spend in each camp. A transparent itinerary lists everything clearly, so ask for details until you are comfortable.

Beach Finish

Zanzibar, Pemba and Mafia are common endings. Allow a day to transfer. See African beach resorts and Mnemba Island.

Planning a Uganda safari? Send us your dates and we will build the route, permits and transport around what you want to see.

Related Tours, Guides and Resources

• Ameera Africa Safaris homepage: Uganda safaris, tours and holidays
• Uganda safari packages
• Uganda travel guide
• How to book a Uganda safari
• Plan your safari with our team