Tanzania Northern VS Southern Safari Circuits : Tanzania is undoubtedly one of the most popular African safari locations. The diversified scenery, diverse animals, plenty of luxury lodges and camps, and rich culture have all led to it being a popular destination for all sorts of travelers, from first-timers to seasoned safari enthusiasts.
Although multi-country safari experiences in Africa are the preferred mode of travel, guests may easily spend their Tanzania safari tours exploring the immensely wide wilderness regions.
Tanzania has a total geographical area of 947,300 square kilometers and a coastline that runs up to 1,424 kilometers. A full safari covering all of the country’s best national parks and towns might easily take up to four weeks to accomplish.
Because few individuals have the time or money to undertake such a lengthy travel, the majority of people choose to have a safari experience in Tanzania’s northern or southern circuits. Here, we’ll look at the distinctions between the two methods to help you decide which one is best for you – but be warned: you’ll probably want to do both!
Tanzania Northern vs Southern Safari Circuits.
In the event that you didn’t know better, you’d think Tanzania was created with safari in mind. With so much to see and do around the nation, it’s practically impossible to cover it all unless you have a limitless cash and time.
This is why Tanzania is typically separated into two safari routes: the northern circuit and the southern circuit. These two circuits represent the geographical coverage of the country’s national parks. Whichever circuit you select, you can expect true safari experiences, great wildlife encounters, and breathtaking vistas of the natural surroundings.
Difference Between Tanzania’s Northern and Southern Safari Circuits.
There are no significant distinctions between Tanzania’s northern and southern circuit safaris; both itineraries provide breathtaking game viewing, stunning landscapes, luxurious accommodations, and amazing experiences.
Accessibility
The main difference between the two is that one route is more accessible than the other. This is because national parks along the southern circuit are located in exceedingly isolated sections of the country. As the parks are not accessible by road, you will need to travel between them by light aircraft. The northern circuit, on the other hand, offers convenient access to national parks. Not to mention that the animal parks are positioned closer together, saving time and avoiding long travels.
Wildlife Numbers in Northern Vs Southern Circuits.
Tanzania’s northern national parks feature bigger densities of wildlife, and the animals there are accustomed to seeing safari vehicles on a daily basis, so they are not readily scared off. Wildlife is more spread out in the south, making it more difficult to locate during game drives.
And because the area receives few visitors, the animals are wary and will flee as vehicles approach. However, both circuits provide excellent game watching possibilities for all of your favorite African species, including the Big 5 (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino) and big cats.
Cost of Safaris in the Northern Vs Southern Circuits.
Because the southern circuit is so isolated, fly-in safaris are required, which means that travel along this route will be more expensive. Fewer flights to this region and higher distances between parks raise the expense. The northern circuit is more accessible and has more flights to this portion of the nation, making it the less expensive choice.
Tourist Traffic in both Northern Vs Southern Circuits.
Comparing the two itineraries, the northern circuit is far more popular since it is less expensive and features well-known attractions. Because of the circuit’s popularity, you may expect to witness a large number of other travelers fighting for the same sites and experiences. On the southern circuit, you won’t have this difficulty; in fact, you can feel like you’re the only one present at times.
Which Safari Destinations are in Tanzania’s Northern Circuit?
Serengeti National Park.
The Serengeti National Park, an undeniable safari business powerhouse, is a highlight of the northern Tanzania itinerary. It’s no secret that the Serengeti is one of Tanzania’s most popular safari destinations.
From the annual Great Wildebeest Migration and fantastic year-round game watching to breathtaking hot-air balloon flights over the plains and cultural encounters with the Maasai, the Serengeti’s romance and charm are unparalleled.
Lake Manyara National Park.
Lake Manyara National Park completes Tanzania’s northern safari circle. This park, located at the foot of the Great Rift Valley escarpment, contains a broad range of ecosystems, including forest, marsh, floodplain, and acacia woodland.
Add to it its namesake, the vast Lake Manyara, and you have a haven for amazing animal populations. Many of Africa’s most popular species wander the park, but Lake Manyara is especially good for birdwatchers, with big flocks of flamingos and many birds of prey to see.
Ngorongoro Conservation Area.
The Ngorongoro Conservation Area is home to the world’s biggest complete volcanic crater, the Ngorongoro Crater. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is not only one of Africa’s Seven Natural Wonders, but it also provides some of the greatest safari experiences available.
The floor of the old volcanic caldera is home to 30,000 wildlife animals, including the coveted Big 5. When not on all-day game drives, there are lots of other thrilling things to keep you entertained. This includes walks around the crater rim, hikes through the woods, scenic vistas of lush foliage, cultural tours, and mountain riding, to mention a few.
Arusha National Park.
Arusha, with its picturesque rolling green farmlands and mild temperature, serves as the entrance to Tanzania’s northern safari circuit. You’re likely to stay a night or two at one of the luxury lodgings located on a picturesque coffee plantation before venturing farther into the countryside.
While here, you should visit Arusha National Park, an undervalued Tanzanian park that is home to a broad assortment of animals, including hippos, elephants, and leopards.
Tarangire National Park.
Tarangire National Park is sometimes overshadowed by its more well-known equivalents, the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater, and few safari-goers are aware that it delivers one of the most gratifying safari experiences in the country.
This works to your benefit because there are no crowds, which means you’ll have fantastic seats to some of the best game viewing. Keep an eye out for Tarangire’s most famous inhabitants: enormous elephant herds and tree-climbing lions.
Mount Kilimanjaro and Mount Meru
Mount Kilimanjaro and Mount Meru will undoubtedly be two of the highlights of your northern Tanzania safari. Kilimanjaro’s snow-capped top is well-known across the globe as Africa’s tallest mountain, and it is also one of the most popular hikes.
Travelers come from all over the world to climb Mount Kilimanjaro (a 5 to 8-day trip). If climbing Kilimanjaro seems too overwhelming, you may start with Mount Meru. Fortunately, both summits provide the most stunning vistas.
Which Safari Destinations are in Tanzania’s Southern Circuit?
Dar es Salaam.
Tanzania’s largest metropolis and logistical hub serves as the gateway to the southern circuit as well as Zanzibar’s gorgeous beaches. Like Arusha on the northern route, you will most certainly spend the night in this old town at the beginning or finish of your safari. Dar es Salaam is a busy city with bustling streets, yet all of the tourist attractions are located outside of the municipal limits.
Ruaha National Park
Ruaha National Park is one of Tanzania’s best-kept secrets, receiving just around 1% of all visitors to the nation. However, this location offers leisurely, uncrowded game watching in a rural, unspoiled environment.
In addition to experiencing East Africa’s greatest elephant herds and all of the big cats, you will enjoy luxurious experiences and outstanding hospitality at riverfront lodges and tented camps.
Zanzibar
Zanzibar is not strictly part of a conventional southern Tanzania safari, but it is a simple logistical addition to your schedule. It also provides an excellent treat after a week in the wilderness.
When visiting Zanzibar’s gorgeous beaches, it’s all about rest and leisure. During your visit, you may enjoy spice tours, great local food, colorful markets that line cobblestone streets, beautiful beaches, luxurious resorts, and a range of water-based activities.
Nyerere National Park.
Formerly known as Selous Game Reserve, Nyerere National Park is Africa’s largest national park and a true highlight of the southern circuit. The huge Rufiji River is the lifeline of this lonely, rugged, and wildlife-rich region, providing a consistent water source for a diverse range of creatures. From the Big 5 to the continent’s largest colonies of endangered wild dogs, Nyerere provides some of the greatest game watching in an off-the-beaten-path location.
Which is better for a safari in Tanzania: Northern vs Southern Circuit?
The correct response to this question is determined on your expectations for your Tanzania safari trip. The northern circuit is ideal for first-timers seeking the traditional Tanzanian safari, as it encompasses the country’s most famous locations, such as the Serengeti and Mount Kilimanjaro.
However, for the seasoned safari-goer or traveler who desires a more off-the-beaten-path experience, the southern circuit is an excellent choice. With hidden jewels in distant, untouched districts like Ruaha and Nyerere, you’ll get a genuine yet unique safari experience in some of the most stunning, uncrowded locations.
Nevertheless, if you have the funds to do so, it is strongly advised that you combine the northern and southern circuits into a single blockbuster luxury safari in Tanzania.
