Northern vs Southern Safari Circuit: Which to Choose

Tanzania's safari country divides into two main regions, and choosing between them comes down to a few practical trade-offs.

Fame and Facilities

The Northern Circuit, with the Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Tarangire and Manyara, is the country's best-known safari region, with the most lodges and easy access from Arusha. The Southern Circuit gets far fewer visitors, mainly because it is harder to reach.

Wildlife

Both regions have rich, abundant wildlife. The north is simply better known; the south is just as wild but far less photographed.

Crowds

This is the biggest difference. In the north, especially in migration season, popular sightings can draw many vehicles. In the south you often have the scene to yourself.

Access

The north is a short drive or flight from Arusha. The south usually means a flight from Dar es Salaam or a longer drive.

Our Advice

For a first safari, the northern parks are hard to beat. If you have been before and want fewer people around you, the south is well worth considering.