Northern vs Southern Tanzania Safari: Which One to Choose?
Mandari Travel’s Guide to Picking the Right Safari Circuit for You
Tanzania is home to two distinct safari regions — the Northern Circuit and the Southern Circuit — each offering a unique take on African wildlife and landscapes. Whether you’re chasing the Great Migration or seeking remote wilderness, Mandari Travel is here to help you decide: Northern vs Southern Tanzania Safari – which one is right for you?
Here’s a complete breakdown to help you make an informed choice based on your travel style, budget, and interests.
The Northern Tanzania Safari Circuit: Iconic & Action-Packed
Highlights:
- Serengeti National Park – Home to the legendary Great Wildebeest Migration.
- Ngorongoro Crater – A UNESCO World Heritage Site and Big Five hotspot.
- Lake Manyara – Known for tree-climbing lions and flamingos.
- Tarangire National Park – Famous for huge elephant herds and baobab trees.
Ideal For:
- First-time safari-goers
- Travelers looking for classic game viewing
- Those wanting to see the Big Five
- Families, honeymooners, and photographers
Access:
- Easily accessible via Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) or Arusha Airport.
- Well-developed road networks for driving safaris and fly-in options.
Experience:
Expect high wildlife density, excellent guide services, and a wide range of lodges and camps. It’s popular and can get busy during peak seasons (June–October), but the sightings are world-class.
The Southern Tanzania Safari Circuit: Wild & Off-the-Beaten-Path
Highlights:
- Nyerere National Park (formerly Selous Game Reserve) – One of Africa’s largest protected areas with rivers, lakes, and bush.
- Ruaha National Park – Remote, rugged, and home to large predator populations and rare antelope species.
Ideal For:
- Repeat safari travelers
- Adventurers seeking low tourist traffic
- Photographers and wildlife lovers who want space and solitude
- Honeymooners looking for exclusive lodges
Access:
- Reached via domestic flights from Dar es Salaam.
- Some roads are rough and distances are greater, so fly-in safaris are common.
Experience:
The Southern Circuit offers boat safaris, walking safaris, and remote bush experiences. It’s less crowded, more wild, and perfect for deeper exploration.
Northern vs Southern Safari: Quick Comparison
| Feature | Northern Circuit | Southern Circuit |
|---|---|---|
| Wildlife Density | High | Moderate to High |
| Tourism Volume | High | Low |
| Travel Accessibility | Easier (by road) | More remote (by air) |
| Ideal for | First-timers | Off-the-beaten-path fans |
| Activities | Game drives | Game drives, walking, boat |
So, Which Should You Choose?
- Choose Northern Tanzania if you want a classic, world-famous safari experience and the best chance to see the Big Five.
- Choose Southern Tanzania if you’re looking for seclusion, unique safari activities, and fewer tourists.
Better yet, ask Mandari Travel to create a custom itinerary that combines both regions for the ultimate Tanzanian safari.
📧 Email: info@mandaritravel
📞 Call/WhatsApp: +255 750 900 811
👇 Request a Quote Below and Let Us Craft Your Perfect Safari! 👇
North or South — Tanzania is unforgettable either way with Mandari Travel.
