9 Days Northern Circuit Safari – Tarangire Start

Embark on a thrilling 9-day Northern Circuit Safari starting from Tarangire National Park, exploring the heart of Tanzania’s iconic wildlife destinations. Witness the Great Migration, encounter the Big Five, stroll through Ngorongoro Crater, and relax in exclusive lodges and luxury camps. Perfect for wildlife enthusiasts and nature photographers seeking an unforgettable safari adventure.

Safari Highlights

• Safari in Tarangire National Park, famous for elephants and baobab trees.

• Ngorongoro Crater game drive, home to lions, rhinos, and abundant wildlife.

• Serengeti National Park’s endless plains, ideal for spotting predators and the Great Migration.

• Cultural visits to Maasai villages for authentic local experiences.

• Luxury and comfort at exclusive lodges and camps.

Belief Itinerary

This itinerary is crafted for adventure, wildlife immersion, and cultural connection. Each day balances game drives, relaxation, and sightseeing. Guests experience exclusive access to the best lodges, ensuring comfort in the wild. Meals, guided safaris, and transfers are fully inclusive for a seamless experience.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival – Tarangire National Park

Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by your safari guide and begin your journey to Tarangire National Park, a hidden gem known for its majestic baobab trees and large elephant herds. After settling into your lodge, enjoy an evening game drive where you might encounter lions, giraffes, wildebeest, and the park’s famous elephants.
Overnight: Tarangire Safari Lodge (or similar)
Meals: Dinner

Day 2: Full-Day Safari in Tarangire

Spend the day exploring Tarangire’s diverse habitats on morning and afternoon game drives. The park is a wildlife haven, especially during the dry season, attracting large numbers of animals around the Tarangire River. Expect to see zebras, buffalo, and predators on the hunt, while bird lovers will appreciate the park’s over 500 species.
Overnight: Tarangire Safari Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3: Lake Manyara National Park

After breakfast, drive towards the lush landscapes of Lake Manyara National Park, famous for its dramatic escarpment backdrop, soda lake, and tree-climbing lions. On your game drive, look out for flamingos, hippos, elephants, and troops of playful baboons. The park offers a contrast of forests, wetlands, and savannah, making it a rewarding stop.
Overnight: Lake Manyara Serena Lodge (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4–6: Serengeti National Park

Your journey continues across the Ngorongoro highlands into the world-famous Serengeti National Park. These three days are dedicated to exploring the endless plains, home to one of the greatest concentrations of wildlife on earth. Depending on the season, you may witness the Great Migration, where wildebeest and zebras move in vast numbers across the savannah, pursued by predators. Game drives bring you close to lions, cheetahs, leopards, elephants, and an array of antelopes.
Optional: Experience a hot air balloon safari at sunrise for a bird’s-eye view of the Serengeti followed by a champagne breakfast.
Overnight: Serengeti Migration Camp (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 7: Ngorongoro Crater – “Africa’s Eden”

Today you descend 600 meters into the Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site often referred to as “Africa’s Eden.” The crater floor is home to nearly 25,000 animals, including the endangered black rhino. With its mix of savannah, wetlands, and forests, this is one of the best places in Africa to spot the “Big Five” in a single day. After an unforgettable safari, return to your lodge perched on the crater rim.
Overnight: Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 8: Cultural & Leisure Experience

Immerse yourself in Tanzanian culture with a visit to a traditional Maasai village. Learn about their customs, dances, and lifestyle before returning to your lodge for an afternoon at leisure. Relax, enjoy the views, or reflect on the adventures of the past days.
Overnight: Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 9: Departure

After breakfast, your guide will transfer you back to Arusha or Kilimanjaro International Airport in time for your onward flight.

Safari Inclusions

• All park entrance fees and permits

• Professional English-speaking driver/guide

• Accommodation in lodges/camps as mentioned

• Daily meals and bottled water during the safari

• Game drives in a 4×4 safari vehicle with a pop-up roof

Exclusions

• International flights

• Travel insurance

• Gratuities for guides and lodge staff

• Alcoholic and soft drinks at lodges

• Optional activities (balloon safari, bush dinners, etc.)

What to Bring

• Lightweight, neutral-colored safari clothing

• Wide-brim hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen

• Comfortable walking shoes

• Binoculars and a camera with extra batteries/memory

• Warm jacket for early morning drives and evenings

• Insect repellent

Travel Guidelines & Important Notes for Tanzania Safaris

We want your Tanzania safari experience to be smooth, safe, and memorable. To help with planning, please take note of the following guidelines and conditions:

1. Flexibility of the Itinerary

• The program provided is a sample itinerary, tailored to showcase Tanzania’s highlights. It can always be adjusted according to your preferences—whether you wish to extend your stay, change activities, or upgrade accommodations.

• While we always strive to follow the planned schedule, changes may occur due to weather, road conditions, government regulations, or operational requirements. In such cases, the route or order of activities may be adjusted for your comfort and safety.

2. Seasonal Activities & Advance Booking

• Some experiences, such as Serengeti Great Migration crossings, depend heavily on seasonal animal movements and cannot be guaranteed.

• Peak seasons (Christmas, Easter, and school holidays) see high demand, so early booking is strongly recommended to secure preferred lodges, flights, and activities.

3. Accommodation Options

• For most of our itineraries, we can provide luxury, midrange, or budget accommodation depending on your preferences and budget.

• All accommodation is carefully selected for comfort, location, and service standards. Availability may vary, but we will always offer the best alternatives.

4. Park Rules & Respect for Nature

• Tanzania’s national parks have strict conservation guidelines. Guests are required to respect wildlife and follow their guide’s instructions at all times.

• Feeding or disturbing animals is prohibited. Always maintain a safe distance when viewing wildlife.

• Park opening hours and regulations must be observed for the safety of both travelers and wildlife.

5. Health & Safety Guidelines

• A Yellow Fever vaccination certificate may be required if you are traveling from or transiting through a Yellow Fever risk country.

• We recommend being up-to-date with routine vaccinations (such as tetanus and hepatitis A/B).

• Malaria prevention is strongly advised—please consult your doctor for medication.

• Carry a personal medical kit and sufficient supply of prescription medicines.

6. Travel Documents & Visa Requirements

• A valid passport with at least 6 months validity from your date of entry into Tanzania is required.

• Most visitors need a tourist visa, which can be obtained online (e-visa) or on arrival at the airport/entry border.

• Ensure you also carry a copy of your travel insurance policy.

7. What to Pack

• Light, breathable clothing in neutral colors (avoid bright colors during game drives).

• Warm sweater/jacket for early morning and evening drives.

• Sun protection: hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.

• Insect repellent.

• Comfortable walking shoes and sandals.

• Swimwear for lodges with pools or Zanzibar extensions.

• Camera/binoculars for wildlife photography.

• A reusable water bottle to reduce plastic waste.

8. Money & Payments

• The official currency is the Tanzanian Shilling (TZS), but US Dollars are widely accepted in lodges, camps, and parks.

• Carry small denominations in clean, newer USD notes (issued after 2006).

• Credit cards are accepted in most lodges, but surcharges may apply. ATMs are available in major towns.

9. Responsible Travel

• We encourage sustainable tourism. Please respect local cultures and communities, ask before taking photos, and support local businesses where possible.

• Reduce plastic use by carrying a reusable water bottle or shopping bag.

• Tipping is customary in Tanzania, with guidelines available from your safari consultant.

10. Terms & Conditions

• By booking a safari, clients accept Pillars of Africa Safaris’ Terms & Conditions of business. These include details on cancellations, payments, liabilities, and service provisions.