Northern Medium Safari
Route: Arusha → Tarangire → Lake Natron → Serengeti → Ngorongoro → Lake Manyara → Arusha
Ideal For: Wildlife enthusiasts, adventure seekers, photography lovers, first-time safari goers
Duration: 6 Nights / 7 Days | Best Time: Year-round (Migration: June-October)
Journey Overview
WildMiles’ Northern Safari Circuit is an adventure through Tanzania’s most legendary and wildlife-rich backcountries, a once-in-a-lifetime journey that brings you face to face with Africa’s raw, untamed landscapes.
The Classic Northern Safari Circuit is one of WildMiles’ most popular choices for travellers. It offers the highest concentration of wildlife and is home to the Great Wildebeest Migration. This route is not just about visiting famous parks; it is a deep exploration of northern Tanzania’s true essence.
From the endless golden plains of Serengeti National Park to the lush, wildlife-filled floor of the Ngorongoro Crater, every destination reveals a new layer of wonder. Along the way, you will witness extraordinary wildlife encounters, experience breathtaking scenery, and connect with vibrant local cultures.
With WildMiles, every itinerary is tailor-made, blending adventure, comfort, and cultural immersion. Whether it is your first safari or a return to the wild, the Northern Circuit delivers unforgettable experiences at every turn.
This is the essence of Africa. This is Northern Safaris.
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Tarangire National Park
Pick up from your hotel or lodge in Arusha and drive to Tarangire National Park. The journey takes approximately 2.5 to 3 hours covering about 120 km.
Tarangire is well known for its large elephant population and its permanent river, which attracts wildlife throughout the dry season. Enjoy lunch inside the park while observing animals gathering along the riverbanks.
In the afternoon, continue wildlife viewing before driving to your tented camp or lodge for dinner and overnight.
Park Highlights:
Elephant Herds Baobab Trees River Wildlife Bird WatchingDay 2: Lake Natron
After breakfast, depart for Lake Natron. The drive is approximately 200 km and takes 4 to 5 hours, passing along the Great Rift Valley through rural villages and dramatic landscapes.
Lake Natron offers an off-the-beaten-path experience, known for its striking red waters, salt flats, flamingos, and views of Ol Doinyo Lengai. Spend the day exploring the area and learning about local life.
After arrival, relax at your accommodation and enjoy the scenery.
Optional Activities:
Ol Doinyo Lengai Hike: Optional hike to the active volcano can be arranged in advance.
Flamingo Watching: Observe thousands of flamingos at the lake shore.
Dinner and overnight at your lodge.
Day 3: Lake Natron → Serengeti National Park
After breakfast, visit the Engare Sero Waterfalls for a short hike and a refreshing swim. Later, begin your drive to Serengeti National Park, taking approximately 4 to 6 hours with scenic stops and game viewing en route.
The Serengeti is one of the world’s most renowned safari destinations, famous for its vast plains, the Great Migration, and Big Five wildlife.
Arrive at your lodge or camp for dinner and overnight, with the sounds of the African night surrounding you.
Day 4: Serengeti National Park
Enjoy an early sunrise over the savannah. After breakfast, embark on a full day game drive across the Serengeti plains, searching for wildebeest, zebras, gazelles, and their predators.
Optional Add-on:
Hot Air Balloon Safari: Experience the Serengeti from above at sunrise (can be booked in advance).
Return to your lodge or camp in the evening for dinner and relaxation under the African stars.
Day 5: Serengeti → Ngorongoro Conservation Area
Enjoy a short early morning game drive before departing Serengeti. Drive to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, approximately 3 to 4 hours covering about 145 km.
The Ngorongoro Crater is a collapsed volcanic caldera hosting a dense concentration of wildlife including the Big Five. Camps and lodges are located along the crater rim, offering stunning views.
Dinner and overnight at your camp or lodge on the crater rim.
Day 6: Ngorongoro Crater → Lake Manyara
Descend into the Ngorongoro Crater for a game drive in this unique, enclosed ecosystem often referred to as the “Garden of Eden.”
In the afternoon, drive to Lake Manyara National Park, approximately 1.5 to 2 hours covering about 70 km. Lake Manyara is famous for its birdlife, tree-climbing lions, hot springs, and underground water forest.
Check into your accommodation for dinner and overnight.
Day 7: Lake Manyara → Arusha
After breakfast, enjoy a game drive in Lake Manyara National Park, exploring its diverse habitats of forests, wetlands, and lakeshore.
Optional Activities:
Treetop Walkway: Experience the forest canopy from above.
Canoeing: Paddle on Lake Manyara (seasonal).
Maasai Village Visit: Cultural experience with local community.
In the late afternoon, exit the park and drive back to Arusha, marking the end of your unforgettable Northern Safari adventure.
Safari Highlights
What’s Included
Package Inclusions
- Private 4×4 safari vehicle with pop-up roof
- Experienced English-speaking driver/guide
- All park entrance and conservation fees
- Accommodation as specified in itinerary
- All meals during the safari (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
- Bottled drinking water throughout the safari
- Airport transfers on arrival and departure
- Government taxes and VAT
Optional Add-ons
- Hot air balloon safari in Serengeti ($550 per person)
- Ol Doinyo Lengai volcano hike ($150 per person)
- Maasai village cultural experience ($50 per person)
- Treetop walkway at Lake Manyara ($30 per person)
- Canoeing on Lake Manyara ($40 per person)
- Upgrade to luxury lodge accommodation
- Photography guide with specialized equipment
- Zanzibar beach extension (inquire for pricing)
WildMiles Safaris
Experience the beauty of East Africa with our tailor-made safari adventures. Explore the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, and other magnificent destinations with our expert guides.