Tanzania's parks are grouped into the Northern Circuit around Arusha, the Southern Circuit reached from Dar es Salaam, and the Western Circuit near Lake Tanganyika. The coast and islands, including Zanzibar, are popular for beach extensions.

The Northern Circuit is ideal for first-timers, combining the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire and Lake Manyara within easy reach of Arusha. It offers excellent wildlife, varied scenery and good lodges at every budget.

The Great Migration moves through the Serengeti ecosystem all year: calving in Ndutu from about January to March, the central and western Serengeti around April to June, and river crossings in the north from July to October.

Ngorongoro Crater is one of the best places to see all Big Five in a single day, including the rare black rhino. The Serengeti and Tarangire also offer excellent lion, leopard, elephant and buffalo sightings.

The Southern Circuit is quieter and more remote, with large elephant and lion populations, wild dogs, boat safaris on the Rufiji River in Nyerere and walking safaris. It suits repeat visitors and travelers seeking wilderness.

Gombe Stream and Mahale Mountains national parks on the shores of Lake Tanganyika are Tanzania's chimpanzee trekking destinations. They are usually reached by flight and boat and combine well with Katavi.

Tarangire is famous for large elephant herds, especially in the dry season. Ruaha and Nyerere in the south also have important elephant populations, and elephants are commonly seen in the Serengeti and Ngorongoro.

Northern parks are connected by road in a private 4x4 safari vehicle, with game drives along the way. Southern and western parks are usually reached by scheduled or charter flights, which also connect to Zanzibar.

June to October is the best general time, with dry weather and easy game viewing. January to March is ideal for calving in Ndutu. Southern and western parks are best in the dry season, when roads are accessible.

Yes. Many travelers combine the Northern Circuit with Zanzibar, or add a southern park by flight. With 10 to 14 days, you can explore two circuits and still enjoy a relaxing beach stay.

Tarangire, Lake Manyara and Ngorongoro Crater are close to Arusha, with shorter drives and abundant wildlife, making them great for families. Zanzibar's beaches are a perfect addition.

Honeymooners love the Serengeti's secluded camps, Ngorongoro Crater rim lodges and Zanzibar's beach resorts. Remote southern parks add romance and privacy for couples seeking a quieter experience.

Costs vary by location, season, lodge level and flights. Northern Circuit road safaris offer good value, while remote southern and western parks usually require flights and cost more. Park fees are set by the authorities and change.

Foot Slopes Tours and Safaris is a Tanzania-based local operator with first-hand knowledge of every circuit. We recommend the best locations for your interests and season, and offer transparent pricing and 24/7 support.

Send your travel dates, group size, budget and interests through our enquiry form. Our team designs a tailor-made itinerary across the best locations with a detailed quote. A deposit confirms your booking, and we support you until you return home.