Tanzania Safari Travel Facts & The Northern Circuit
Explore Tanzania’s Northern Safari Circuit with a local guide — from Arusha to Tarangire, Lake Manyara, Ngorongoro Crater and the endless plains of the Serengeti. A journey shaped by wildlife, landscapes and stories that stay with you forever.
This page shares essential Tanzania safari travel facts, including visa information, best travel time and practical tips for the Northern Circuit.
Tanzania & The Northern Circuit – The Heart of East Africa’s Greatest Safari
Your journey through Tarangire, Manyara, Ngorongoro & Serengeti starts here.
Tanzania is a land of vast savannas, ancient volcanoes and unforgettable wildlife encounters, making it one of Africa’s most iconic safari destinations. The Northern Safari Circuit is the most iconic route in East Africa — a perfect blend of dramatic landscapes, the Big Five, rich Maasai culture, and the world-famous Great Migration.
For us at Lyoseko Safaris Tanzania, this region is home. Every sunrise, every lion’s roar, every dusty road tells a story — and we love sharing it with you.
The Northern Circuit lies in northern Tanzania, stretching from Arusha toward the national parks of Tarangire, Lake Manyara, the Ngorongoro Crater, and the far-reaching plains of the Serengeti. To the northeast, the mighty Mount Kilimanjaro dominates the horizon — Africa’s highest peak. This route is know for:
High wildlife density
Diverse ecosystems
Iconic landscapes
Year-round safari opportunities
Being the best place in Africa for Big Cats
Tarangire National Park – Land of Giants
Tarangire is famous for its massive elephant herds, ancient baobabs and rich wildlife along the Tarangire River—one of Tanzania’s top dry-season safari areas.
“Morning light over Tarangire feels special. Elephants move silently through the dust, baobabs stand like ancient guardians, and the park’s calm rhythm sets the tone for your safari”.
Lake Manyara National Park – Forest Magic & Tree-Climbing Lions
Lake Manyara blends forests, savanna and hot springs, offering flamingos, primates and Tanzania’s rare tree-climbing lions along the Rift Valley escarpment.
“One moment you’re surrounded by monkeys in the shadowy forest, the next you’re staring at a lion resting in a tree. Manyara is unpredictable — and that’s what makes it unforgettable”.
Ngorongoro Crater – The Garden of Eden
Ngorongoro Crater is a wildlife-rich volcanic caldera where lions, elephants and black rhinos thrive—one of Tanzania’s best Big Five safari locations.
“Descending through the morning mist into the crater feels like entering a hidden world. Wildlife spreads out below you, and every turn reveals a new scene straight out of a nature film”.
Serengeti National Park – Endless Plains, Endless Stories
The Serengeti offers vast plains, big cats and the world-famous Great Migration—Tanzania’s most iconic safari destination and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
“Silence in the Serengeti hits differently. The wind moves through the tall grass, lions call in the distance, and the horizon stretches on forever. It’s safari at its purest”.
Mount Kilimanjaro – The Roof of Africa
Mount Kilimanjaro towers above northern Tanzania, offering stunning views from Arusha and the Northern Circuit parks—Africa’s highest and most iconic peak.
“Even from far across the savanna, Kilimanjaro dominates the skyline. On clear mornings, its snowy peak glows as if welcoming travelers to the heart of northern Tanzania”.
Tanzania Safari Facts
Fact 1
Over 30% of Tanzania is protected land, making it one of Africa’s best destinations for wildlife, national parks and year-round safari adventures.
Fact 2
The Serengeti hosts Africa’s largest lion population and the world’s greatest animal movement—the 1.5 million strong Great Migration.
Fact 3
Arusha is Tanzania’s safari hub, connecting travelers to the Northern Circuit parks: Tarangire, Lake Manyara, Ngorongoro and the Serengeti.
Fact 4
Ngorongoro Crater is the world’s largest unbroken volcanic caldera, home to dense wildlife and some of Tanzania’s best Big Five sightings.
Useful Facts for Travelers to Tanzania
Essential things to know before your safari in Tanzania — practical, honest and experience-based.
Visa & Passport
A visa is required for most travelers visiting Tanzania; passport must be valid for at least 6 months.
Best Travel Time
Tanzania is a year-round safari destination, with excellent wildlife viewing in every season; June–October is the classic dry season.
Currency
Tanzanian Shilling (TZS); USD is widely accepted for safari-related expenses.
Cards vs Cash
Cash is essential outside cities; cards are accepted in most lodges.
Electricity
UK-style plug (Type G), 230V. A universal adapter is recommended.
Connectivity & Internet
Mobile data via an e-SIM is a convenient way to stay connected while traveling through Tanzania. Wi-Fi is available in most lodges but limited; an e-SIM helps avoid roaming costs.
Hair Dryers & Solar Power
Most safari lodges in Tanzania operate on solar energy, which limits the use of high-power devices. Personal hair dryers are not allowed due to peak power usage;
many lodges can provide one on request.
Health & Flying Doctors
Comprehensive travel insurance is essential; AMREF Flying Doctors cover is recommended.
Note: AMREF Flying Doctors cover is a recommendation — guests arrange coverage directly with AMREF.
Ready to Plan Your Tanzania Safari?
For me, a safari is never just about ticking off animals. I’ll guide you through Tanzania’s Northern Circuit with patience, local insight and genuine passion — creating a journey that feels unhurried, personal and unforgettable.
