6-Day Northern Tanzania Safari: Arusha, Tarangire, Manyara, Ngorongoro & Serengeti
Adventure Brief
Traverse Tanzania’s northern circuit in six days—Tarangire’s elephants, Manyara’s tree lions, the Ngorongoro caldera, and Serengeti plains where migration writes the calendar. This practical guide prepares you for logistics, wildlife timing, and what to pack.
The Land Cruiser's engine rumbles awake before dawn and the horizon begins to sharpen—acacia silhouettes carve the sky, and a fine dust rises from the track like a local weather. On a six-day loop through Tanzania's northern parks you move between ecosystems as if flipping channels: the riverine thickets of Tarangire, the steaming bowl of Ngorongoro, the gallery forests around Lake Manyara, and the endless plains of the Serengeti where migration patterns dictate the calendar.
Key Highlights
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
6 days
Fitness Level
Basic fitness for long game-drive days and short walks; ability to get in/out of a safari vehicle repeatedly.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- African elephant
- lion
History
The northern circuit sits on landscapes central to human origins—Olduvai Gorge yielded fossils that shaped our understanding of early hominins—and pastoral Maasai culture remains integral to local life.
Conservation
Tourism funds and community-based conservancies are vital here; stick to designated roads, minimize single-use plastics, and support operators that pay community levies.
Operated By
Traverse Tanzania’s northern circuit in six days—Tarangire’s elephants, Manyara’s tree lions, the Ngorongoro caldera, and Serengeti plains where migration writes the calendar. This practical guide prepares you for logistics, wildlife timing, and what to pack.
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Adventure Tips
Book around migration dates
If seeing river crossings is a priority, plan for June–July or September–October; availability fills quickly during peak migration.
Pack layers for crater mornings
Ngorongoro's rim can be chilly at sunrise—bring a warm mid-layer even if days are hot.
Carry local currency for park fees
Some park and community fees aren't always included; bring cash (Tanzanian shillings) for small purchases and tips.
Maintain wildlife distance
Always follow your guide’s instructions—approach animals only from the vehicle and keep noise low to avoid stressing wildlife.
Recommended Gear
Binoculars (10x)
Essential for spotting distant wildlife on the Serengeti plains and along riverbanks.
Telephoto lens (200–400mm)
Brings predators and distant subjects into clear frame without disturbing animals.
Sun hat and high-SPF sunscreen
Open savannah offers little shade—protect skin and eyes during long midday drives.
summer
Light insulated jacket
Warmth for pre-dawn and crater-rim evenings when temperatures drop.
winter
Frequently Asked Questions
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