National Parks of Northern Tanzania
The well-established safari circuit of Northern Tanzania offers some of the world’s most diverse safari experiences with various national parks, game reserves and protective wildlife areas. World-famous are the iconic Serengeti and the legendary Ngorongoro Crater, but there is certainly more! Less well-known, but also worth a visit are Arusha, Manyara and Tarangire which offer also fantastic wildlife encounters!
Maybe you like to travel off-the-beaten-path and discover the more unknown? How about a visit of Lake Eyasi and Lake Natron where you can engage in some cultural activities? Or maybe you would like to encounter the water birds on the shores of Lake Victoria? Below are some of the most popular national parks of Northern Tanzania. Reach out with your travel motivation and wildlife preferences and lets get started to plan your customized holiday!
Which National Park in Northern Tanzania would you like to explore?
Arusha National Park
Arusha National Park is located just outside Arusha Town – the starting point for any Northern Tanzania safari. This small park is often overseen, but regards visitors with a stunning variety of habitats. Game viewing can be combined with a canoe or walking safari – a fantastic safari introduction.
Mount Kilimanjaro
Mount Kilimanjaro is the tallest free-standing mountain in the world and often referred to as “Roof of Africa”. This dormant volcano has three major volcanic centers: Shira, Mawenzi and the snow-capped Kibo. Highlight for any hiker is the trek to Uhuru Peak – located 5,895 m above sea level.
Lake Manyara National Park
Lake Manyara National Park is wedged between the dramatic Rift Valley Escarpment Wall and the alkaline soda lake. It is a paradise for ornithologist with over 400 recorded bird species. A visit is best combined with a bush walk along the Rift Valley Rim or a cultural experience in the village of Mto wa Mbu.
Lake Natron
Lake Natron is located remotely and off-the-beaten path just below the Rift Valley Escarpment within the heart of the Maasai territory. This area is hot, very dry and dusty. The lake is a major breeding place for lesser flamingos. Activities focus mainly around walking and cultural interactions with the here resident Maasai.
Lake Victoria
Lake Victoria is the second largest freshwater lake of the world and the source of the mighty Nile. Its abundant ecosystem including various lush islands supports a rich diversity of birds and fishes. A visit offers guests a welcoming contrast to classical game viewing with various activities outside the vehicle.
Ngorongoro – Crater
The Ngorongoro Crater, once a giant volcano, is undeniably a must visit for many travelers to Tanzania. It famously stands out with its breathtaking scenery. The crater floor is a sanctuary for over 25,000 animals and home to Africa’s “Big Five”! Wildlife can be explored within a few hours of game viewing.
Ngorongoro – Ndutu
Ndutu is part of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area and stretches into the southern part of Serengeti. It’s the prime game viewing location if you would like to encounter the Great Wildebeest Migration that will gather on the short grass plains between December to March – highlight is the Calving Season in February.
Serengeti National Park
Serengeti with its seemingly unending savannah plain is home to a large variety of wildlife including the greatest spectacle on earth – the legendary Great Wildebeest Migration. A visit in Tanzania’s most stunning park is arguably a must include in every Northern Tanzania safari. Game viewing is superb throughout the year.
Tarangire National Park
Tarangire offers one of the greatest wildlife concentrations outside the Serengeti ecosystem with less visitors. Its baobab filled landscape is home to a giant elephant population. Tarangire is often used as a gap-filler on the way to Serengeti, however, it’s definitely worth to spend two or more nights here.