Tanzania is a safari paradise, home to diverse wildlife, stunning landscapes, and vibrant cultures. The 12-day Tanzania northern and southern combo safari offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore both the northern circuit parks—Tarangire, Lake Manyara, Serengeti, Ngorongoro—and the southern parks—Selous (now Nyerere National Park) or Ruaha. This itinerary combines classic safari experiences with off-the-beaten-path adventures, giving travelers a complete Tanzanian wildlife experience.
This itinerary is ideal for travelers who want to experience:
Northern Circuit Highlights: Big Five, migration herds, and iconic landscapes.
Southern Circuit Adventures: Remote wilderness, fewer tourists, and diverse ecosystems.
Cultural Encounters: Maasai villages, local markets, and traditional Tanzanian life.
Diverse Wildlife: From predators to rare antelope species, hippos, crocodiles, and over 500 bird species.
Photography Opportunities: Scenic plains, crater views, river systems, and untouched wilderness.
Timing is essential to maximize wildlife sightings and park accessibility:
Northern Circuit (Tarangire, Serengeti, Ngorongoro): June – October (dry season) for excellent game viewing and migration tracking.
Southern Circuit (Ruaha, Nyerere National Park): June – October for dry conditions, as animals congregate around rivers and waterholes.
Wet Season (November – May): Lush landscapes and fewer tourists, though some roads may be challenging.
For this comprehensive safari, the dry season (June–October) is highly recommended.
Here’s a detailed day-by-day breakdown:
Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) or Arusha Airport.
Transfer to a hotel in Arusha for overnight rest.
Meet your safari guide for a detailed itinerary briefing.
Drive to Tarangire National Park (approx. 2-3 hours).
Check into your lodge or tented camp (e.g., Tarangire Safari Lodge or Swala Camp).
Afternoon game drive to spot elephants, lions, giraffes, and zebras.
Dinner and overnight stay.
Early morning game drive to see wildlife at sunrise.
Explore baobab forests, riverine habitats, and floodplains.
Picnic lunch in the park.
Optional night drive for nocturnal species.
Overnight at your lodge.
Drive to Lake Manyara National Park (approx. 1.5 hours).
Game drive to spot tree-climbing lions, flamingos, and diverse birds.
Optional visit to Mto wa Mbu village for cultural interactions.
Overnight near Lake Manyara.
Depart for Ngorongoro Conservation Area (approx. 1-2 hours).
Descend into the Ngorongoro Crater for a full-day game drive.
Picnic lunch inside the crater.
Check into a lodge on the crater rim (e.g., Ngorongoro Serena Lodge).
Dinner and overnight stay.
Early morning drive to Serengeti National Park (approx. 4-5 hours).
Afternoon game drive in the central Serengeti for lions, cheetahs, elephants, and wildebeest.
Overnight at a lodge or tented camp (e.g., Serengeti Serena Safari Lodge).
Early morning game drive for predator activity at sunrise.
Explore Seronera Valley and Moru Kopjes.
Picnic lunch in the park.
Optional hot air balloon safari for a unique perspective.
Overnight at your lodge.
Morning transfer to southern circuit park via light aircraft or road transfer.
Arrive at Ruaha or Nyerere National Park for an afternoon game drive.
Spot lions, wild dogs, elephants, hippos, and crocodiles.
Check into your lodge or camp for overnight stay.
Explore the southern wilderness, which is less crowded and pristine.
Witness rare antelope species, large elephant herds, and diverse birdlife.
Picnic lunch or return to lodge for meals.
Overnight at your lodge or camp.
Morning game drive in the southern park.
Optional visit to local communities or villages to learn about traditional Tanzanian life.
Afternoon drive for photography and wildlife observation.
Overnight at your lodge.
Morning game drive in the southern park.
Fly or drive back to Arusha (depending on transfer method).
Check into hotel for overnight rest.
Optional shopping or relaxation in Arusha.
Breakfast at the hotel.
Transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport for onward flights.
Optional extension: Zanzibar beach holiday or Kilimanjaro trekking.
Big Five: Lions, elephants, leopards, buffaloes, and rhinos in northern parks.
Southern Wildlife: Wild dogs, hippos, crocodiles, and rare antelopes.
Birdlife: Over 500 species across northern and southern parks.
Scenic Highlights: Tarangire’s baobabs, Ngorongoro Crater, Serengeti plains, and Ruaha/Nyerere river systems.
Serengeti Serena Safari Lodge: Panoramic views and luxury amenities.
Ngorongoro Serena Lodge: Overlooks the crater with modern facilities.
Tarangire Safari Lodge: Elevated lodges with river views.
Southern Lodges: Vuma Hills Lodge (Ruaha), Mtemere Camp (Nyerere).
Maramboi Tented Camp (Tarangire): Comfortable eco-lodges.
Lake Manyara Kilimamoja Lodge: Cozy and conveniently located.
Serengeti Sopa Lodge: Centrally located with good facilities.
Southern Camps: Ruaha River Lodge, Sand Rivers Selous.
Guesthouses, small lodges, and campsites provide authentic safari experiences for budget-conscious travelers.
Pack Wisely: Safari clothing, neutral colors, sunhat, sunscreen, binoculars, and camera.
Health & Safety: Anti-malaria medication, vaccinations, and travel insurance recommended.
Stay Hydrated: Carry water during game drives.
Early Morning Drives: Wildlife is most active at sunrise.
Respect Wildlife and Local Communities: Always follow your guide’s instructions.
Book Early: Peak safari season requires advanced booking for lodges and camps.
Comprehensive Wildlife Experience: Northern parks for iconic wildlife, southern parks for remote wilderness.
Cultural Exposure: Maasai and local community visits.
Diverse Landscapes: From baobab forests to craters and untouched southern rivers.
Photography Opportunities: Big Five, migration herds, predators, and scenic vistas.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Adventures: Southern parks offer fewer crowds and unique wildlife encounters.
Q: Can I see the Big Five on this safari?
A: Yes. Northern parks like Ngorongoro and Serengeti offer the best chances for Big Five sightings.
Q: Are southern parks crowded?
A: No. Ruaha and Nyerere are remote, less visited, and ideal for travelers seeking tranquility.
Q: Are guided safaris necessary?
A: Yes. Guides improve wildlife spotting, ensure safety, and provide cultural and ecological insights.
Q: Can I extend the trip to Zanzibar or Kilimanjaro?
A: Absolutely. Many travelers combine northern and southern safaris with beach or mountain extensions.
The 12-day Tanzania northern and southern combo safari is perfect for wildlife enthusiasts seeking a comprehensive Tanzanian adventure. From Tarangire’s elephants and Serengeti’s plains, to Ngorongoro Crater’s biodiversity and Ruaha/Nyerere’s remote wilderness, this itinerary delivers unforgettable wildlife encounters and cultural experiences.
Book your 12-day northern and southern Tanzania safari today for the ultimate African adventure!
Tanzania is a year-round safari destination with many adventures being offered all over the country. For optimal wildlife sightings, the dry season from June to October is your best bet! Read more on when to visit Tanzania
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