Popular Tanzania Safari Routes
By the Foot Slopes Tours and Safaris team
Written by our Arusha-based guides and safari planners from first-hand experience in Tanzania.
Most Tanzania safaris start in Arusha and explore the northern circuit, often finishing with a few days on the beach. Below are the routes our guests choose most often. Every one can be adjusted into a private tailor-made itinerary with your choice of lodges, pace and extra activities.
Northern Circuit Routes
Classic 7-day northern circuit
The most popular first safari, combining the four main northern parks. See our 1-week Tanzania safari ideas.
- Arrive at Kilimanjaro Airport and rest in Arusha
- Tarangire for elephants and baobabs
- Lake Manyara or the Ngorongoro highlands
- Two or three nights in the Serengeti
- Ngorongoro Crater game drive
- Return to Arusha for your flight
Short 2 to 4 day safari
Ideal after a Kilimanjaro climb or for travellers with limited time. Read about short safaris in Tanzania.
- Tarangire or Lake Manyara
- Ngorongoro Crater
- Optional night in the Serengeti on longer trips
Safari Combinations
Two weeks: safari and Zanzibar
The perfect mix of wildlife and relaxation. See our 2-week Tanzania itinerary.
- A week on the northern circuit
- Fly from the Serengeti or Arusha to Zanzibar
- Stone Town and several nights on the beach
Kilimanjaro climb and safari
A true adventure that pairs Africa’s highest peak with its greatest wildlife. Browse our Kilimanjaro trekking packages.
- Climb Kilimanjaro on a six to nine day route
- Rest in Moshi or Arusha
- Short safari to Tarangire, Ngorongoro or the Serengeti
Southern and Western Routes
The southern circuit pairs Nyerere and Ruaha, usually by light aircraft from Dar es Salaam or Zanzibar, for boat safaris, walking safaris and big predators. The western route links Katavi with chimpanzee trekking in Mahale Mountains, one of Africa’s most remote safari experiences.
Safari Routes FAQs
How many days do I need for a Tanzania safari?
Seven days is ideal for the northern circuit, giving time for Tarangire, Ngorongoro and the Serengeti. Short safaris of two to four days work well after a climb, and two weeks lets you add Zanzibar or a southern park.
Where do Tanzania safaris start?
Most northern safaris start in Arusha, about an hour from Kilimanjaro International Airport. Southern safaris usually begin in Dar es Salaam or Zanzibar, with light aircraft flights into the parks.
Should I drive or fly between parks?
Driving is part of the experience on the northern circuit and lets you game view along the way. Flying saves time on longer distances, such as the Serengeti to Zanzibar, and is the norm in the south and west.
Can I change a sample route?
Yes. All our routes are examples. As a private tailor-made safari, we can change parks, lodges, number of nights and activities to suit your interests and budget.
Create Your Own Route
Share your ideas and travel dates, and our Arusha team will design a private tailor-made Tanzania route just for you.
Plan My Private SafariView Tanzania Safaris