TANZANIA NORTHERN CIRCUIT: Wildebeest, hiking and more

Tanzania is the largest country with in East Africa and is popularly known to be one of the best safari destinations in the world.

Different tourists visit Tanzania because of various reasons including going for the great migration of wildebeest that take place in the northern part of Tanzania and southern kenya in areas like Ngorongoro conservation area, Serengeti national park and Masai Mara national park.  There are so many other attractive things to look for while on a safari in Tanzania such as the Africa’s tallest peak (Mt Kilimanjaro), the second largest and deepest lake (Lake Tanganyika) and its diverse wildlife.

Tanzania is blessed with the largest concentration of animals in the whole world hence being divided into different sectors that is the northern circuit, southern circuit, western circuit and the coastal circuit.

In this blog, we duel through what to expect while on your safari to adventure the Tanzania northern circuit

The northern part of Tanzania is very famous since it harbours Tanzania’s most iconic national parks, game reserves and the conservation areas thus being referred to as an ultimate safari destination of Africa. Some of these include Serengeti national park, Ngororongoro crater, Tarangire national park, lake Manyara national park, Mt Kilimanjaro to mention but a few.

ATTRACTIONS THAT MAKE UP THE TANZANIA NORTHERN CIRCUIT

This northern circuit is basically composed of national parks, game reserves, conservation areas that are defined with different landscape, biodiversity and the famous wildebeest migration. These include.

SERENGETI NATIONAL PARK

Popularly known for being a home to the wildebeest migration and is among the must-see experiences on a safari while in Tanzania northern circuit. Seeing herbivores migrating from one are to another while searching for green pasture while being closely followed by the cats as their hunting their prey including the witnessing of river crossing at river Grumeti and river Masai Mara is a once in lifetime experience.

You will witness the uniqueness of the nature as the wildebeest struggle to cross the river while being hunted by the crocodiles while the cats are waiting for them at the other side of the river. Serengeti national park is also known for its exceptional game viewing, hot air balloon safaris, nature walks, cultural encounters, birding and many more.

The great migration take place in Ngorongoro conservation area and extends to Serengeti national park. For those interested in witnessing the calving period. The period between January and march is the perfect time to go to Tanzania northern circuit as this time is described as the calving period

ARUSHA NATIONAL PARK

This is the main gate way to the Tanzania’s northern safari circuit, and it is situated in northeast of Arusha city. It is famous for being the home to the second highest mountain in Tanzania in for of Mount Meru. It is just 40 minutes drive away from Kilimanjaro international airport (KIA) which makes it a perfect spot for both 0ne day visitor and multi day visitors.

The park is unique for its biodiversity with wildlife that can not be found anywhere else in Tanzania. Animals you are likely to encounter include leopard, buffalo, elephant and more. Primates you likely to see include black and white colobus monkey, vervet monkey, blue monkey and more.

The park is also a haven to the bird enthusiast with bird like grey crowned crane, African fish eagle and flamingos, all call the park home.

LAKE MANYARA NATIOANL PARK

Another great destination found in Tanzania norther circuit is Lake Manyara national park with the size of 330sqkms.  Imagine a look at the spirited pink flamingos, the vibrant white rhinos, zebras, a numerous bird species all around a soda lake is indeed thrilling all of this is possible while in lake Manyara national park.

The park is a hub of many attractions including its large concentration of elephants, the tree climbing lions and being a bird haven. A boat cruise is a must do activity while at this park.

NGORONGORO CONSERVATION AREA

The highlight of Ngorongoro conservation area is Ngorongoro crater (from which it gets its name) which is the world largest inactive, intact and unfilled volcanic caldera. It was established in 1959 covering vast expanses of craters, gorges, forests, lakes, rivers, streams, savanna grasslands and woodlands.

Adding to that Ngorongoro conservation area is also a UNESCO world heritage site because of its out standing attractions. The crater is composed of a rich biodiversity including the ancient forests, different bird species and it covers 75000m above sea level.

Not forgetting its one of the unique places in Tanzania where you can have a look at the big 5 animals, as you enjoy your game drive.

The combination of landscape and wildlife rivals that of Serengeti national park and Masai Mara national reserve

TARANGIRE NATIONAL PARK

Tarangire national park is another perfect area for a safari that is situated in the northern parts of Tanzania. The park is an ideal destination for people especially on short safaris since it is just 2 hours drive from Arusha to the park. There is a lot to see while in this off beaten park including   the famous river Tarangire, the large herds of elephants, the tree climbing lions and many more.

Some of the activities to enjoy in this park include the game drives and it is the best place for a night game drive among other parks with in the northern circuit, birding balloon safaris, and many more.

MOUNT KILIMANJARO

This is one of the main attractions with in the northern circuit. Mount Kilimanjaro is Africa’s highest peak snow-capped mountain. Different tourists in the world visit Tanzania to hike this amazing mountain. There are many things to enjoy while hiking as you view different bird species. The mountain can be hiked by both the seasoned hikers and junior hikers.

The unique landscape and diversified ecosystem makes a perfect place for the tourist which makes it a must go to place while on your Tanzania northern circuit vacation safari.

The park is also famous for harboring different mountain animals for instance the duckers, hyrax, however you can still see different primate species.

RUBONDO ISLAND

This is one of the main bucket lists while on a safari in the northern Tanzania circuit though a few people usually visit it. The island is situated in the south western parts of Lake Victoria and it is made up of a national park. This park is Africa’s largest island national park filled with different attractions.

Tourism activities to enjoy in Rubondo island include fishing, game drives, bird watching, canoe rides, chimpanzee trekking and many more.

HOW TO GET TO THE NORTHERN TANZANIA CIRCUIT

To get to the northern Tanzania circuit is easy because it entails using either road or air. However, you need to know that the starting point is Arusha city. From Kilimanjaro international airport, you will be able to reach any of the park by road within 40 minutes to 3 hours depending on which park you are visiting. Local charters can also be arranged to take to the destination of your choice.

BEST TIME TO VISIT THE NORTHERN TANZANIA CIRCUIT

The Tanzania northern circuit is open for the tourist all year round. However, the choice of when to go will entirely depend on your personal interests and desire

For the wildlife lover and climbers, the dry season between June to September and December to February is the perfect time to visit the region. During this time the trails are dry and less muddy which enables you to move freely. Secondly during this time of the year animals tend to gather around the water sources for water which will enable you to have a greater view of various wildlife

For the bird lover, wet season is the perfect time to visit the region. Migrating birds visit the region which will increase the variety of birds you will encounter.  Furthermore, the green savanna grassland that is associated with the rainy season will enhance the experience of the visitors during the wet season. The wet season is also perfect for the budget travelers as prices for accommodation tend to drop down and discounts are usually offered during this time.

Conclusion

Tanzania northern circuit is a must go to place on your African safari with the various attraction that are found in this region. The region is perfect for the mountain climbers, wildlife enthusiasts, bird lovers and those interested in water activities. Some of these activities can only be done in this area and no where else in the world. The region is also a home to the great migration of wildebeest, the largest island national park, the tallest peak in Africa and many more.

Common Tanzania northern Safari Packages

This 10 days Kilimanjaro & Gorilla safari brings you to the highest peak of the tallest mountain in Africa standing at 5895m above sea level. Mountain Kilimanjaro is the longest single-standing mountain in the world. Although there are 6 routes for hiking the mountain Kilimanjaro, which are; the Shira (Londorossi) route, Lemosho route, Machame route, Umbwe route

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A 1-day Ngorongoro crater visit will take you to the world’s biggest intact caldera and home of wild animals like leopards, elephants, lions and rare black rhinos in the northeastern Tanzania. Driving down to the crater is absolutely the most wonderful and fascinating adventure with beautifully incredible landscapes giving room free for memorable experiences and photography.

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Embark on an extraordinary Tanzanian odyssey with our meticulously crafted 10-day itinerary, offering a perfect blend of natural wonders, cultural immersion, and leisurely escapes. Your journey begins on Day 1 with a warm welcome at Kilimanjaro International Airport, leading you to the vibrant town of Moshi for an overnight stay.

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