Tanzania Safari Circuits
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These circuits divide Tanzania into the four corners of the compass and consist of an itinerary of destinations designed to minimise travelling time and maximise the experience. Tanzania is a diverse country, so each circuit offers its own unique magic, divergent scenery, and appealing wildlife encounters. The northern, southern, western, and eastern circuits encompass a selection of national parks, reserves, conservation areas and even, in the case of the eastern circuit, islands and beaches, that visitors can choose based on their interests
Northern Circuit Safari Parks
- Serengeti National Park
Home to Great Wildebeest Migration which has been consistently named “the greatest show on earth” and the World Cup of Wildlife, Serengeti National Park is one of the major attractions in Tanzania. It displays the breathtaking scenery of a wildlife-ridden Africa all year-round and visitors never go zero when it comes to game viewing.
- Ngorongoro Conservation Area
Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Africa’s Garden of Eden, is where you can find the famous Ngorongoro Crater, the world’s largest unbroken, inactive volcanic caldera. It is another UNESCO World Heritage Site that promises sightings of the Big Five and all other wildlife including about 25,000 large mammals. The crater rim sits around 7,500m above sea level and is covered in ancient forests draped in lichen, making it a unique site to spot such incredible diversity and concentration of animals and birds.
- Lake Manyara National Park
Imagine a vast soda lake filled with massive herds of vibrant pink flamingoes, white rhinos, zebras and other wildlife? In Lake Manyara National Park, you get to see this before your very eyes. Aside from such a sight to behold, the main attractions in this park include the tree-climbing lions and the prolific elephant population.
Best time to visit Northern Circuit Parks: June to October and December to March
Southern Safari Parks
- Selous Game Reserve
Selous is one of the largest game reserves in the world. It is widely popular for being the home to the world’s largest population of wild dogs as well as some of the country’s last remaining black rhinos. Considered a hidden gem of Africa, Selous boasts of a variety of vegetation zones, ranging from dense thickets to riverine forests and swamps to open wooded grasslands.
- Ruaha National Park
Covering 20,226 square kilometers (7,809 sq mi) of savannah, Ruaha National Park is Tanzania’s and East Africa’s largest park. It hosts 10% of the planet’s lion population as well as one of the largest elephant populations anywhere. The park can be reached by car on a dirt road from Iringa or by light aircraft in Dar es Salaam. If you drive from the town of Iringa, you will reach the park in 2 hours whereas if you drive from Dar, it will be an approximately 10-hour journey all in all. Via plane, it will be about 2.5 hours through either Msembe airstrip or Jongomeru airstrip.
- Mikumi National Park
Mikumi National Park is the fourth largest park in the entire country. Since its road improvements connecting Dar es Salaam, Mikumi has become a hotspot for Tanzania tourism. Elephants, wildebeest, zebras, and buffaloes along with other mammals are abundant in this park. Although occasional, you can also spot lions potentially preying on other animals, giraffes browsing on the leaves of the acacia trees, and hippos resting on the Mkata River.
Best time to visit Southern Circuit Parks: June to October
Western Circuit Parks
- Mahale Mountains National Park
The popular primates destination in Tanzania, Mahale Mountains National Park hosts about 800 chimpanzees, one of Africa’s big apes. It offers guided treks to the forest and gives you a chance to meet and greet the chimps. The park also supports other primates including red colobus monkeys, red-tailed and blue monkeys.
- Katavi National Park
Katavi National Park is a very remote park, less frequented by tourists. It covers Katuma River as well as Lakes Katavi and Chada. Among the many animals that roam this park are antelopes, buffaloes, zebras, wildebeest, giraffes, cheetahs, leopards, lions, and hyenas.
- Gombe Stream National Park
With only 13.5 square miles (35 km2) of protected land along the hills of the eastern shore of Lake Tanganyika, Gombe Stream National Park is one of Tanzania’s smallest parks. However small, the park is a world-famous chimp reserve that hosts plenty of habituated endangered chimpanzees along with numerous of baboons.
Best time to visit Western Circuit Parks: June to October (Mahale), February to June (Gombe), December to April (Katavi)
The Western Circuit
Tanzania’s Western Circuit, a region that, while more challenging to access, offers a unique and untouched wilderness experience. With vast expanses of untouched nature, this circuit calls to those those seeking a true escape, away from the crowds, and immersing themselves in its raw wilderness and virgin landscapes. The Western Circuit also provides the opportunity for chimpanzee trekking in the lush forests, providing a glimpse into their natural habitat and conservation efforts.
However, it is advisable to explore the Western Circuit if you’ve already explored the Northern Circuit and experienced proper safaris.
Parks: Explore the Western Circuit’s gems, starting with Mahale Mountains National Park, nestled along the shores of Lake Tanganyika. This park boasts dense forests and rugged terrain, providing a sanctuary for chimpanzees and various primates. Head out for a thrilling chimpanzee trekking adventure here, and keep an eye out for red-tailed monkeys, colobus monkeys, and other species, immersing yourself in the diverse primate habitat.
Continuing along the coast of Lake Tanganyika, Gombe Stream National Park invites you to discover the legacy of Dr. Jane Goodall’s groundbreaking research. Participate in guided tours to witness habituated chimpanzees and gain insights into conservation efforts dedicated to protecting these primates. Since the parks are situated on the shores of Lake Tanganyika, you may seize the opportunity to explore the lake through boating and even take a refreshing swim.
Lastly, explore the pristine wilderness of Katavi National Park, the most challenging to access but consequently the most unspoiled. In Katavi’s unspoiled wilderness you will find cape buffaloes, lions, cheetahs, wild dogs, giraffes, and wildebeests, with the possibility of spotting sable antelopes and roan. Katavi offers an expanse of untouched and breathtaking wilderness.
Activities: There’s plenty of activities to enjoy in the Western Circuit. Enjoy classic game drives to observe diverse wildlife and venture into the dense forests for a memorable chimpanzee trekking adventure.
Take scenic hikes to connect with nature closely. Explore the depths of Lake Tanganyika through kayaking and snorkeling, revealing the beauty beneath the water’s surface. Fishing enthusiasts can partake in sport fishing for a thrilling aquatic experience.
Birdwatchers will delight in the diverse avian population, and the beach shores of Lake Tanganyika are great to relax on. You may also learn about the local culture by visiting nearby villages and engaging with the residents there, ensuring a well-rounded and enriching safari experience in the pristine wilderness of the Western Circuit.
Accommodations: Accommodation choices in the Western Circuit are fewer compared to the Northern Circuit, but they do offer a range from safari lodges to tented camps. While luxurious options akin to those in the Northern Circuit may be limited, you’ll still find enough choices fitting into mid-range or budget categories. Prices generally tend to be lower compared to the Northern Circuit, ensuring accessible accommodation options for travellers.
Access: Accessing the Western Circuit, given its remote nature, presents challenges. The best way to reach this region includes flying from either Arusha or Dar Es Salaam. Alternatively, you may choose to stay in Kigoma town and take a boat ride to reach the parks. To reach Kigoma, take a bus or a train from Dar or Dodoma. Please note that the roads might not be in the best condition, so it’s crucial to pick transportation that fits your preferences and comfort.
The Coastal Circuit
The Coastal Circuit is a captivating ensemble featuring islands. This tropical paradise boasts white sandy beaches, inviting blue-green waters, rich historical heritage, and a myriad of water sports activities, promising a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure in this coastal haven.
Islands: Discover the treasures of the Coastal Circuit, beginning with the famous Zanzibar. Known for its UNESCO-listed Stone Town, Zanzibar combines history with relaxation. Whether lounging on the lively of Nungwi, Michamvi, and Kendwa or savouring local dishes, drinks, and vibrant nightlife, there’s plenty to enjoy. Dive into exciting activities like kayaking, snorkeling, parasailing, and exploring coral reefs, making Zanzibar a paradise for coastal adventures.
Pemba provides a serene getaway, away from bustling crowds. Experience tranquility through diving and admiring mesmerising coral reefs, creating an ideal setting for relaxation and exploration. Mafia Island provides an even more remote and peaceful experience, offers excellent diving opportunities and chances to explore captivating coral ecosystems. Though lacking some tourist amenities, both Pemba and Mafia deliver tranquil escapes, ensuring a distinctive coastal experience away from the hustle and bustle of Zanzibar.
Activities: There’s a multitude of activities to enjoy across the Coastal Circuit islands. In Zanzibar’s Stone Town, meander through historic alleys, savour local cuisine, visit forts, and learn about the island’s spice production by visiting plantations. Engage with friendly locals for an authentic experience.
For water enthusiasts, the options are endless. Experience the vibrant underwater world through snorkeling and diving. Delight in kitesurfing, parasailing and other exciting water sports. Explore mesmerising coral reefs, encounter diverse fish species, and even visit turtle conservation sites. The Coastal Circuit offers a perfect blend of cultural exploration and thrilling aquatic adventures.
Accommodations: Accommodation options in Zanzibar cater to every budget, offering a diverse range from luxurious stays to mid-range, budget, and hostels. The island provides easily accessible options for various preferences.
In Pemba and Mafia, options are more limited. While accommodations near diving sites are available, choices are constrained. Pemba may offer a slightly higher number of luxurious options compared to mid-range and budget alternatives, providing a more exclusive experience. So, keep in mind the varying availability of accommodations when planning your stay on these serene islands.
Access: To reach Zanzibar, you can take flights from Arusha or Dar Es Salaam, or opt for a ferry from Dar to Stone Town. Similarly, Pemba and Mafia Islands are accessible by both flights and ferries.
However, it’s essential to note that ferry travel to Pemba and Mafia Island may not always provide the most comfortable journey. Tides and rough seas can pose challenges, and the condition of the ferries may vary. Travellers should consider these factors when planning their journey to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience to these coastal destinations.
