Arusha is the gateway to the northern parks. Here is how far each one is, how long to allow, and how they fit into a trip.
Our team is based in Arusha, so you can plan a trip from here with people who know the roads, the timing and the parks. Distances and times below are approximate and depend on road works, weather and traffic.
| Park or excursion | From Arusha (approx.) | Works as | What it is known for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Arusha National Park | About 35 km, under an hour | A day trip | Black-and-white colobus monkeys, the Momella lakes, giraffe, and views of Mount Meru |
| Tarangire National Park | About 120 km, around 2 hours | A day trip, or the first stop of a longer safari | Elephant herds and baobab trees, best from about June to October |
| Lake Manyara National Park | About 125 km, around 2 hours | A day trip, or part of a northern circuit | Groundwater forest, hippos, flamingos in season and the Rift Valley escarpment |
| Ngorongoro Crater | About 190 km, around 3 to 3.5 hours | An early day trip, or 2 to 5 days with the Serengeti | A volcanic caldera floor of about 260 sq km with a dense wildlife population |
| Central Serengeti (Seronera) | About 335 km by road, roughly 6 to 7 hours, or a flight from Arusha | 3 days or more | Big cats all year, and the wildebeest migration in season |
Road conditions change. We confirm the timings for your dates in your proposal.
For help choosing, read our comparison of the northern parks and the guide to the best time for a safari.
Most travellers arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), roughly an hour from Arusha. Tell us your flight details and we will arrange your pick-up.
Northern Tanzania Safari Circuit
Explore Tanzania on the 5 Day Tanzania Safari: Serengeti, Ngorongoro & Tarangire in a private open-roof 4x4 safari cruiser with Haradali.
From $1,850 per person
Northern Tanzania Parks
Experience the ultimate Tanzania safari adventure through Tarangire, Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, and Lake Manyara. This 4-day safari itinerary combines breathtaking wildlife encounters, stunning landscapes, and unforgettable game drives across some of Africa’s most iconic national parks.
From $1,480 per person
Northern Tanzania Safari Circuit
Explore Tanzania on the 3 Day Tanzania Safari: Tarangire, Ngorongoro & Lake Manyara in a private open-roof 4x4 safari cruiser with Haradali.
From $1,150 per person
Northern Tanzania Safari Circuit
Explore Tanzania on the 7 Day Classic Tanzania Safari: Tarangire, Manyara, Serengeti & Ngorongoro in a private open-roof 4x4 safari cruiser with Haradali.
From $2,650 per person
Lake Eyasi, Great Rift Valley
Step back in time at Lake Eyasi: track wild game on a dawn hunt with the Hadzabe bushmen and discover ancient blacksmithing techniques with the Datoga pastoralists.
From $520 per person
Tingatinga, West Kilimanjaro Maasailand
Sleep inside an authentic Maasai boma in West Kilimanjaro, join warriors on an indigenous medicine bush walk, and experience Maasai folklore around a roaring campfire.
From $430 per person
Tell us your dates, group size and what you most want to do, and we will suggest a plan in writing. We will reply We reply within 24 hours..
Common questions
Most of our packages include accommodation, meals, park fees, private 4x4 safari transport, professional guides, airport or hotel transfers, and activities mentioned in the itinerary. Specific inclusions may vary depending on the tour.
Tanzania can be visited year-round, but the best time for safaris is usually during the dry season from June to October. Zanzibar is also beautiful during this period, while Kilimanjaro climbs are ideal from January to March and June to October.
Yes! We specialize in personalized experiences and can tailor your safari, Zanzibar holiday, or Kilimanjaro trek based on your travel style, budget, and preferences.
We offer a variety of accommodations including budget camps, mid-range lodges, luxury safari lodges, beachfront resorts, and mountain camps during Kilimanjaro treks.
We offer both private and group safari options. Private safaris provide a more personalized experience, while group safaris are a great option for travelers looking for a more affordable adventure.
Climbing Kilimanjaro is physically challenging but achievable for most people with proper preparation and determination. Choosing the right route and itinerary greatly improves acclimatization and summit success.
Plan with confidence
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Tanzania is a year-round safari destination. The best time depends on what you want to see and how much you value quiet roads, lush landscapes and good weather.
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Ngorongoro Crater is one of the best places in Africa to see a wide range of wildlife in a small area. Here is what to expect and how to make the most of a day in the crater.
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