4-Day Tanzania Northern Circuit Safari with Big Five Game Drives

4 Days Round trip from Arusha Moderate pace

The journey

Trip highlights

01 Discover the Northern Circuit with rich wildlife viewing across Tarangire, Serengeti, and Ngorongoro
02 Explore the endless plains of the Serengeti during exciting game drives
03 Experience a sunrise safari and witness diverse wildlife in natural habitats
04 Descend into Ngorongoro Crater for an immersive Big Five wildlife adventure

Discover Tanzania's iconic Northern Circuit on this 4-day safari through Tarangire, Serengeti, and the Ngorongoro Crater. Witness giant elephant herds, explore the endless plains of the Serengeti, and enjoy thrilling game drives across diverse landscapes. Experience a sunrise safari, spot the Big Five, and descend into the spectacular Ngorongoro Crater for unmatched wildlife viewing. This journey offers rich encounters with nature, breathtaking scenery, and unforgettable moments in Africa's most celebrated national parks and conservation areas.

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 4 Days

Tour type Private

Activity level Moderate

Accommodation Included · Budget

Transport Included

Wheelchair access Yes

Cities Arusha, Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Tarangire National Park

Languages English

Day by day

The itinerary

Day 01

Arusha to Tarangire Game Drive and Karatu Stay

Depart from Arusha after breakfast and drive for approximately two to three hours to Tarangire National Park, known for its massive elephant herds and rich savannah wildlife.
Enjoy a full-day game drive in the park with opportunities to spot diverse wildlife.
Lunch and dinner are included during the day.
Proceed to your lodge or camp in Karatu for dinner and an overnight stay.

Day 02

Karatu to Serengeti via the Ngorongoro Highlands

Drive for approximately four to five hours after breakfast towards Serengeti National Park via the Ngorongoro Highlands.
Enjoy scenic views along the route before entering the vast plains of the Serengeti.
Experience an afternoon game drive across the famous Serengeti landscape.
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included during the day.

Stay overnight in a lodge or tented camp inside the Serengeti.

Day 03

Sunrise Safari and Transfer to Ngorongoro

Begin the day with an early morning sunrise game drive in the Serengeti.
Enjoy breakfast and lunch before continuing your journey.
Drive towards the Ngorongoro Conservation Area after lunch.
Stop at Olduvai Gorge if desired, an important archaeological site.
Dinner is included during the day.

Stay overnight at a lodge or tented camp on the crater rim or in Karatu.

Day 04

Ngorongoro Crater Safari and Return to Arusha

Spend the day on a combined drive and game drive experience in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area.
Descend approximately 600 metres into the Ngorongoro Crater for a stunning wildlife viewing experience.
Explore the crater floor, known for its dense concentration of wildlife.
Breakfast and lunch are included during the day.
Return to Arusha in the afternoon, marking the end of your safari.

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map — Round trip from Arusha 4 cities · 4 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

Transport in a modified 4WD Land Cruiser or Land Rover with a photographic roof.
Services of a professional guide and chef.
All wildlife reserve entry fees.
All camping gear (please bring your own sleeping bags).
3 meals a day during the trip.
All game drives as mentioned.
Airport transfer and drop-off.
All taxes and VAT.
Drinking water while on safari (2 litres per person per day).
Concession/camping fees.

What's Not Included

International airfare and flights.
Personal items (souvenirs, travel insurance, visa fees, etc.).
Gratuities for the safari guide and camp staff.
Travel insurance.
Alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks and beverages at the camp.
Government-imposed increases in taxes and/or park fees.

What to bring

Lightweight neutral-coloured clothing such as khaki and olive for layering, including long-sleeved shirts and trousers to protect against sun and insects.

Know before you go

Focus on the Northern Circuit, including Serengeti and Ngorongoro, for the best experience.
Pack neutral-coloured layers suitable for cold mornings and hot days.
Bring sunscreen, binoculars, and a camera.

Logistics