Route And Distance Between Different Tanzania Attractions.
Embarking on a safari in Tanzania is a journey through some of the most stunning Tanzania Safari Routes and Distances and diverse landscapes on earth. From the iconic Serengeti National Park to the enchanting Ngorongoro Crater, each destination offers unique experiences that promise to leave lasting memories. Planning your routes and understanding the distances between these incredible locations is essential for a seamless and enjoyable safari adventure. In this comprehensive guide, we will detail the main routes and distances for a Tanzania safari, ensuring you are well-prepared for an unforgettable experience.
Arrival Day: Kilimanjaro Airport
Your safari adventure begins at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), the primary gateway to Tanzania’s northern safari circuit. Located near Arusha, this airport is perfectly positioned for easy access to various national parks. After arriving, you will typically spend your first night in Arusha, a vibrant city that serves as the hub for safari expeditions.
Arusha to Lake Manyara National Park
Distance: Approximately 126 kilometers (78 miles)
Travel Time: 2 to 3 hours
Lake Manyara National Park is renowned for its diverse ecosystems, breathtaking scenery, and rich wildlife. The journey from Arusha to Lake Manyara takes you through scenic landscapes and local villages, providing a glimpse into the daily lives of Tanzanian communities. Tanzania Popular Routes. The park is famous for its tree-climbing lions, large elephant herds, and the alkaline lake itself, which attracts flocks of flamingos and other bird species.
Arusha to Tarangire National Park
Distance: Approximately 118 kilometers (73 miles)
Travel Time: 2 to 2.5 hours
Tarangire National Park is a gem known for its vast elephant population and iconic baobab trees. The drive from Arusha to Tarangire is relatively short, allowing for ample time to explore the park’s diverse habitats. Visitors can expect to see a variety of wildlife, including lions, leopards, and numerous bird species. The Tarangire River, which flows through the park, is a crucial water source for animals, especially during the dry season.
Arusha to Central Serengeti National Park
Distance: Approximately 320 kilometers (199 miles)
Travel Time: 6 to 7 hours
The journey from Arusha to the Central Serengeti is a long but rewarding one. The Central Serengeti, also known as Seronera, is the heart of the park and offers some of the best wildlife viewing opportunities. This region is famous for the Great Migration, where millions of wildebeest and zebras cross the plains in search of fresh grazing. In addition to the migration, visitors can see predators like lions, cheetahs, and hyenas, making the Central Serengeti a must-visit.
Arusha to Northern Serengeti National Park
Distance: Approximately 400 kilometers (249 miles)
Travel Time: 8 to 9 hours
The Northern Serengeti is known for the dramatic river crossings during the Great Migration. Here, herds of wildebeest and zebras brave the crocodile-infested waters of the Mara River. The journey from Arusha to the Northern Serengeti is lengthy but offers a chance to see a less crowded and equally spectacular part of the park. The landscapes here are rugged and beautiful, providing a different perspective on the Serengeti ecosystem.
Arusha to Lake Natron
Distance: Approximately 250 kilometers (155 miles)
Travel Time: 5 to 6 hours
Lake Natron is a strikingly beautiful and remote destination, known for its harsh yet stunning environment. The lake’s high alkalinity creates a breeding ground for flamingos, making it a birdwatcher’s paradise. The drive to Lake Natron takes you through rough and scenic terrain, including the Rift Valley escarpment. Visitors can also explore the nearby Ol Doinyo Lengai, an active volcano considered sacred by the Maasai people.
Arusha to Lake Eyasi
Distance: Approximately 150 kilometers (93 miles)
Travel Time: 3 to 4 hours
Lake Eyasi is a lesser-known but culturally rich destination. The area around the lake is home to the Hadzabe and Datoga tribes, who offer visitors a unique opportunity to experience traditional ways of life. The journey from Arusha to Lake Eyasi is relatively short and passes through varied landscapes, including agricultural areas and rocky outcrops. This destination is ideal for those interested in cultural tourism and off-the-beaten-path experiences.
Lake Manyara National Park to Tarangire National Park
Distance: Approximately 70 kilometers (43 miles)
Travel Time: 1 to 1.5 hours
Traveling between Lake Manyara and Tarangire National Park is quick and straightforward, allowing visitors to easily combine these two parks into their safari itinerary. Both parks offer unique wildlife viewing opportunities and diverse landscapes, making them excellent complementary destinations.
Lake Manyara National Park/Karatu to Serengeti North (Lobo and Mara) / North East (Bolongonya)
Distance: Approximately 260 kilometers (162 miles)
Travel Time: 6 to 7 hours
From Lake Manyara or Karatu, the journey to the Northern Serengeti takes you through the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, providing a scenic and varied drive. The Northern Serengeti is less frequented by tourists, offering a more exclusive experience with abundant wildlife and breathtaking landscapes.
Lake Manyara National Park to Lake Natron
Distance: Approximately 130 kilometers (81 miles)
Travel Time: 3 to 4 hours
Traveling from Lake Manyara to Lake Natron involves a drive through the Great Rift Valley. With dramatic views and diverse terrains. The journey offers a chance to see more of Tanzania’s natural beauty and to explore the unique and harsh environment of Lake Natron.
Tarangire National Park to Serengeti Central
Distance: Approximately 300 kilometers (186 miles)
Travel Time: 6 to 7 hours
The drive from Tarangire to the Central Serengeti is long but rewarding. Taking you through varied landscapes and potentially through the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. The Central Serengeti offers rich wildlife viewing opportunities and is a key area for witnessing the Great Migration.
Lake Manyara National Park to Serengeti Central
Distance: Approximately 230 kilometers (143 miles)
Travel Time: 5 to 6 hours
From Lake Manyara to the Central Serengeti, the journey passes through the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, offering beautiful scenery and potential wildlife sightings along the way. The Central Serengeti, with its abundant wildlife and iconic landscapes, is a highlight of any safari.
Tarangire National Park to South Serengeti (Ndutu)
Distance: Approximately 220 kilometers (137 miles)
Travel Time: 5 to 6 hours
The route from Tarangire to the Southern Serengeti takes you through the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, providing opportunities to see diverse wildlife and landscapes. The Ndutu region is particularly known for its role in the Great Migration, where wildebeest calving occurs, attracting numerous predators.
Lake Manyara National Park to South Serengeti (Ndutu)
Distance: Approximately 200 kilometers (124 miles)
Travel Time: 4 to 5 hours
Traveling from Lake Manyara to the Southern Serengeti is a relatively short and scenic journey, offering excellent opportunities to explore the Ndutu region. This area is a prime location for witnessing the early stages of the Great Migration and the associated predator-prey interactions.
Serengeti Central to Western Serengeti
Distance: Approximately 130 kilometers (81 miles)
Travel Time: 3 to 4 hours
The journey from the Central Serengeti to the Western Serengeti takes you through the heart of the park, with opportunities to see a variety of wildlife and diverse habitats. The Western Serengeti is known for its riverine forests and the Grumeti River, which attracts numerous animals, including large Nile crocodiles.
Serengeti Central to Southern Serengeti
Distance: Approximately 100 kilometers (62 miles)
Travel Time: 2 to 3 hours
Traveling from the Central Serengeti to the Southern Serengeti is a shorter journey. Allowing for more time to explore the Ndutu region. This area is particularly important during the Great Migration, offering unique wildlife viewing experiences.
Ngorongoro to Tarangire National Park
Distance: Approximately 140 kilometers (87 miles)
Travel Time: 3 to 4 hours
The drive from the Ngorongoro Conservation Area to Tarangire National Park provides a chance to see more of Tanzania’s varied landscapes. Tanzania Safari Routes and Distances. This route is relatively short, making it easy to combine these two incredible destinations in your safari itinerary.
Lake Manyara National Park to South Serengeti (Ndutu)
Distance: Approximately 200 kilometers (124 miles)
Travel Time: 4 to 5 hours
From Lake Manyara to the Southern Serengeti, the journey is scenic and offers excellent opportunities to explore the Ndutu region, a key area for the Great Migration and predator interactions.
Lake Natron to Serengeti National Park North (Lobo and Mara) and North East (Bolongonya)
Distance: Approximately 270 kilometers (168 miles)
Travel Time: 6 to 7 hours
Traveling from Lake Natron to the Northern Serengeti is a long but scenic drive. Offering opportunities to see diverse landscapes and wildlife. The distances of the safari in northern Tanzania. The Northern Serengeti is known for its dramatic river crossings during the Great Migration and provides a more exclusive safari experience.
Serengeti Central to Ngorongoro
Distance: Approximately 140 kilometers (87 miles)
Travel Time: 3 to 4 hours
The journey from the Central Serengeti to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area takes you through stunning landscapes and offers opportunities to see a variety of wildlife. Tanzania Safari Routes and Distances. The Ngorongoro Crater is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most famous safari destinations in the world.
Serengeti Central to Serengeti North (Lobo and Mara) and North East (Bolongonya)
Distance: Approximately 130 kilometers (81 miles)
Travel Time: 3 to 4 hours
From the Central Serengeti to the Northern Serengeti. The journey offers a chance to explore Safari Routes Tanzania Distance different parts of the park and see diverse wildlife. The Northern Serengeti is less crowded and provides spectacular wildlife viewing, especially during the Great Migration.
Ngorongoro Crater to Lake Eyasi
Distance: Approximately 90 kilometers (56 miles)
Travel Time: 2 to 3 hours
The drive from the Ngorongoro Crater to Lake Eyasi is relatively short and offers opportunities to explore the unique cultural experiences around the lake. Tanzania Safari Routes and Distances. This area is home to the Hadzabe and Datoga tribes, providing a glimpse into traditional ways of life.
Lake Eyasi to Arusha / Kilimanjaro Airport
Distance: Approximately 190 kilometers (118 miles)
Travel Time: 4 to 5 hours
Traveling from Lake Eyasi back to Arusha or Kilimanjaro Airport is a scenic drive that marks the end of your safari adventure. This route offers a chance to reflect on the incredible experiences and diverse landscapes you have encountered.
Arusha to Zanzibar
Distance: Flight only
Travel Time: Approximately 1.5 hours
For those looking to combine their safari with a beach holiday. A, a short flight from Arusha to Zanzibar is the perfect option. Zanzibar offers pristine beaches, historic Stone Town, and a rich cultural heritage, making it an ideal complement to a safari adventure.
Central Serengeti to Zanzibar
Distance: Flight only
Travel Time: Approximately 2 hours
From the Central Serengeti, a flight to Zanzibar allows for a seamless transition from the wild savannah to the tropical paradise of Zanzibar. Tanzania Safari Routes and Distances. This combination provides a perfect balance of adventure and relaxation.
How far is it from the Serengeti to the Ngorongoro Crater?
The distance from Serengeti National Park to the Ngorongoro Crater varies depending on your exact starting and ending points within these vast areas, but typically. It is around 150 kilometers (93 miles). Travel time can range from 3 to 4 hours by car. Considering the road conditions and the need for potential stops for wildlife viewing. The main route usually taken is from the central Serengeti (Seronera) to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, passing through the Naabi Hill Gate.
What is the best safari route in Tanzania?
Northern Safari Circuit – the most popular Tanzania safari route comprising the Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Lake Manyara, Tarangire and Kilimanjaro. Tanzania Coast and Islands – the country’s beaches, especially those on islands like Zanzibar, are breath-taking and very accessible.
How many days is enough for Tanzania safari?
3 to 5 days for a quick taste of wildlife safari, covering a couple of national parks or. 6 to 8 days for visiting the top parks including Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Tarangire. 9 to 11 days for covering the top parks with a relaxed schedule. 12+ days for once in a lifetime trip with maximum wildlife spotting potential.
What is the best month for a safari in Tanzania?
Tanzania’s dry season lasts from the end of June all the way through to October. This is the best time to do a safari for a variety of reasons. Firstly, most of the country gets warm weather with cool evenings and very little rainfall.
