Tanzania is a dream destination for wildlife enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and culture lovers alike. With its world-renowned national parks, scenic landscapes, and rich cultural heritage, the country offers some of the most unforgettable safari experiences in Africa. If you have only a week, a 7-day Tanzania full circuit safari is the perfect way to see the highlights of northern Tanzania, from Tarangire and Lake Manyara to the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater. This article provides a detailed itinerary, wildlife highlights, travel tips, and everything you need to plan your ultimate safari adventure.
A full circuit safari is designed to give travelers a comprehensive Tanzanian experience in just one week. This itinerary covers the northern safari circuit, combining famous parks and cultural stops. Key reasons to choose this safari include:
Diverse Wildlife Encounters: See the Big Five—elephant, lion, leopard, buffalo, and rhino—plus giraffes, zebras, wildebeest, and cheetahs.
Stunning Landscapes: From the plains of the Serengeti to the crater of Ngorongoro, Tanzania’s landscapes are breathtaking.
Cultural Experiences: Visit Maasai villages and learn about local traditions.
Efficient Itinerary: Ideal for travelers with limited time but wanting a complete safari experience.
Timing is essential to maximize wildlife sightings and enjoy favorable weather conditions:
Dry Season (June to October): Best for wildlife spotting as animals gather near water sources. The Serengeti is particularly spectacular during the migration.
Wet Season (November to May): The landscapes are lush and green, and birdwatching is excellent, but animals are more dispersed. Roads may also be challenging due to rains.
For a 7-day safari, the dry season is recommended to ensure you get the most out of your game drives.
Here’s a day-by-day breakdown of the 7-day full circuit safari, balancing game drives, scenic drives, and cultural experiences:
Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) or Arusha Airport.
Meet your safari guide and drive to Tarangire National Park (approx. 2-3 hours).
Check in at your lodge or tented camp. Recommended lodges: Tarangire Safari Lodge or Swala Camp.
Enjoy an afternoon game drive, spotting elephants, zebras, and giraffes along the Tarangire River.
Dinner and overnight stay at your lodge.
Early morning game drive to see wildlife at sunrise.
Explore the park’s baobab forests, swamps, and floodplains.
Lunch in the park or at your lodge.
Afternoon game drive with chances to see lions and other predators.
Optional night drive for nocturnal wildlife sightings.
Overnight at your lodge.
Depart Tarangire after breakfast and drive to Lake Manyara National Park (approx. 1.5 hours).
Enjoy a game drive in this park, famous for flamingos, tree-climbing lions, and birdwatching.
Picnic lunch within the park.
Optional visit to Mto wa Mbu village for cultural experiences, including banana plantations and local crafts.
Dinner and overnight stay near Lake Manyara or Ngorongoro.
Depart early for Ngorongoro Conservation Area (approx. 1-2 hours).
Descend into the Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Full-day crater game drive to see the Big Five, flamingos, hippos, and rare black rhinos.
Picnic lunch inside the crater.
Ascend in the late afternoon and check into your lodge or camp on the crater rim.
Overnight stay with spectacular views of the crater.
Depart early for Serengeti National Park, the highlight of any Tanzanian safari (approx. 4-5 hours drive).
Stop at scenic spots en route for photos and short breaks.
Afternoon game drive in the Serengeti, spotting lions, cheetahs, elephants, and wildebeest.
Check in at a lodge or luxury tented camp in the central Serengeti. Recommended: Serengeti Serena Safari Lodge or Kubu Kubu Tented Lodge.
Dinner and overnight stay.
Begin the day with an early morning game drive to catch predators hunting at sunrise.
Explore the vast Serengeti plains, including Moru Kopjes and Seronera Valley, known for wildlife concentrations.
Picnic lunch in the park.
Afternoon game drive with opportunities to spot giraffes, zebras, buffaloes, and more lions.
Optional hot air balloon safari for a unique aerial view of the Serengeti.
Overnight at your lodge or tented camp.
Optional early morning game drive or leisure breakfast at the lodge.
Drive back to Arusha (approx. 5-6 hours) for your onward flight or transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport.
Optional extension: Fly to Zanzibar for a relaxing beach holiday after your safari adventure.
A full circuit safari maximizes your chances of seeing diverse wildlife. Expect encounters with:
Big Five: Lions, elephants, buffaloes, leopards, and rhinos (Ngorongoro).
Ungulates: Wildebeest, zebras, impalas, gazelles, and giraffes.
Predators: Cheetahs, hyenas, jackals, and wild dogs.
Birds: Flamingos, pelicans, eagles, and over 500 species throughout the parks.
Unique Features: Tarangire’s baobabs, Lake Manyara’s flamingo-rich shores, and Ngorongoro Crater’s unique ecosystem.
Serengeti Serena Safari Lodge: Stunning views of wildlife from lodge terraces.
Ngorongoro Serena Lodge: Located on the crater rim with panoramic views.
Tarangire Safari Lodge: Elevated accommodations overlooking the river.
Maramboi Tented Camp (Tarangire): Comfortable and eco-friendly.
Lake Manyara Kilimamoja Lodge: Cozy lodge with modern amenities.
Serengeti Sopa Lodge: Good value with excellent access to game drive areas.
Local guesthouses and campsites provide authentic experiences and affordable accommodations for adventurous travelers.
Book Early: Especially during peak season (July–October) to secure lodges and camps.
Pack Wisely: Neutral-colored clothing, sunscreen, hat, binoculars, and a camera with a zoom lens.
Stay Hydrated: Carry sufficient water on game drives.
Health & Safety: Anti-malaria medication, travel insurance, and basic first aid are essential.
Respect Wildlife: Always follow your guide’s instructions and maintain safe distances.
Plan for Early Mornings: Wildlife is most active at sunrise, so early game drives are recommended.
A 7-day Tanzania full circuit safari can also be combined with:
Zanzibar Beach Extension: Relax on white sandy beaches after your safari.
Kilimanjaro Trekking: For adventurers who want to combine wildlife and mountain experiences.
Cultural Tours: Visit local Maasai or Chagga villages to experience Tanzanian traditions.
Provides a comprehensive northern circuit experience without feeling rushed.
Allows time to visit multiple parks and reserves, including Tarangire, Lake Manyara, Ngorongoro, and Serengeti.
Perfect for first-time safari travelers and families seeking variety.
Offers a balance between game drives, cultural experiences, and relaxation.
Q: Can I see the Big Five on this 7-day safari?
A: Yes, Ngorongoro Crater is the best place to see all five, while the Serengeti and Tarangire also offer excellent wildlife sightings.
Q: Do I need a guide for the safari?
A: Yes, an experienced guide improves wildlife spotting and ensures a safe and informative experience.
Q: Are lodges included in the safari packages?
A: Most safari packages include accommodations, meals, and game drives, but always confirm when booking.
Q: Is this itinerary suitable for families?
A: Absolutely. Lodges and camps are family-friendly, and the itinerary is flexible for children of different ages.
A 7-day Tanzania full circuit safari offers an extraordinary journey through some of Africa’s most iconic landscapes and wildlife destinations. From Tarangire’s elephants and baobabs to the flamingo-filled Lake Manyara, the dramatic Ngorongoro Crater, and the endless plains of the Serengeti, this itinerary provides a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and cultural encounters.
Whether you’re a first-time traveler or an experienced safari enthusiast, this one-week safari promises memories that will last a lifetime. Book your 7-day Tanzania full circuit safari now and experience the wild heart of Tanzania!
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
Both have their perks with Big Five national parks, the incredible Great Migration and that quintessential African experience we all dream of. Check out our article on Serengeti vs Masai Mara to help you decide.
They both have such different safari experiences! Tanzania offers Big Five game reserves on classic dusty desert plains, rather South Africa partners the Big Five animals with luscious winelands. Both are just as good, but it depends on your safari style.
That’s a tough one! Botswana is home to herds of elephants at Chobe and the sparkling Okavango Delta, and Tanzania has the iconic Mount Kilimanjaro and Great Migration. Check out our article on Botswana vs Tanzania safaris to help you decide.
Tanzania is in general a safe, hassle-free country. However, like most places, you do need to take precautions and listen to your tour guide. It also pays to read our articles on ‘Things to know before going to Tanzania’.
A camera and binoculars are a must. You’ll regret it if you don’t take them! As for clothing, definitely pack lightweight, breathable clothing. Remember, Tanzania is an arid country so the days can get quite hot. Read more on what to pack for a safari in Tanzania in our travel magazine
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