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Classic Northern Circuit
7 Days / 6 Nights
moderate difficulty

Classic Northern Circuit

The complete Tanzania safari: Arusha → Tarangire → Ngorongoro → Serengeti across all four Acacia destinations.

Overview

The quintessential Tanzania safari experience, this circuit takes you through all four major destinations of the Northern Circuit — from the bustling hub of Arusha, through the elephant-dotted landscapes of Tarangire, into the UNESCO World Heritage Ngorongoro Crater, and finally to the endless plains of the Serengeti.

Each stop features an Acacia Collection property, ensuring consistent luxury and service throughout your journey. This is the circuit we recommend for first-time safari visitors who want the complete Tanzania experience.

Trip Highlights

  • Visit all four Northern Circuit destinations
  • Stay at four different Acacia properties
  • Ngorongoro Crater floor tour
  • Full-day Serengeti game drives
  • Tarangire elephant herds and baobab trees
  • Seamless Acacia hospitality throughout

Day-by-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Arrival in Arusha

Arusha
Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport. Transfer to Acacia Retreat for check-in, briefing, and overnight stay. Relax in the gardens and enjoy a welcome dinner.
Accommodation: Acacia Retreat
Meals: half board

Activities:

Airport transferWelcome briefingGarden walk
Day 2

Arusha to Tarangire National Park

Tarangire National Park
After breakfast, drive south to Tarangire National Park. Enjoy an afternoon game drive among the ancient baobab trees and large elephant herds. Sundowner drinks before returning to camp.
Accommodation: Serian Tarangire Camp
Meals: full board

Activities:

Game driveElephant viewingBaobab forestSundowner
Day 3

Tarangire to Ngorongoro Highlands

Ngorongoro Conservation Area
Morning game drive in Tarangire before departing for the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Arrive at The Castle at Ngorongoro perched on the crater rim with breathtaking views.
Accommodation: The Castle at Ngorongoro
Meals: full board

Activities:

Morning game driveScenic drive to NgorongoroCrater rim views
Day 4

Ngorongoro Crater Floor Tour

Ngorongoro Conservation Area
Descend 600 meters to the crater floor for a full-day game drive in this natural amphitheater. Spot the Big Five, flamingos on Lake Magadi, and the rare black rhino. Picnic lunch on the crater floor.
Accommodation: The Castle at Ngorongoro
Meals: full board

Activities:

Crater floor game driveBig Five spottingPicnic lunchFlamingo viewing
Day 5

Ngorongoro to Serengeti

Serengeti National Park
Drive through the Ngorongoro Conservation Area and descend into the Serengeti plains. Game drive en route to Olkarien Eco Safari Camp in the central Seronera area.
Accommodation: Olkarien Eco Safari Camp
Meals: full board

Activities:

Scenic drive through NCAGame drive en routeSerengeti arrival
Day 6

Full Day Serengeti

Serengeti National Park
Full-day game drives in the Serengeti, exploring the Seronera River valley — the wildlife crossroads of the Serengeti. Excellent chances to spot lions, leopards, cheetahs, and large herds of wildebeest and zebra.
Accommodation: Olkarien Eco Safari Camp
Meals: full board

Activities:

Full-day game driveBig cat trackingSeronera ValleySundowner
Day 7

Serengeti to Arusha / Departure

Serengeti National Park
Early morning game drive before breakfast. Transfer to Seronera airstrip for a scenic flight back to Arusha, or drive back via Ngorongoro. Connect with your onward flight or extend your stay.
Meals: bed breakfast

Activities:

Morning game driveScenic flight or drive to Arusha

What's Included

  • 6 nights accommodation at Acacia Collection properties
  • All meals (full board) at each property
  • 4WD safari vehicle with pop-up roof
  • Professional English-speaking safari guide
  • All national park and conservation area fees
  • Unlimited bottled water and soft drinks during drives
  • Airport/hotel pickup and drop-off in Arusha
  • Laundry service at all camps

Not Included

  • International flights
  • Travel insurance
  • Tips and gratuities
  • Optional activities (balloon safari, walking safari)
  • Alcoholic beverages
  • Personal items

Book This Circuit

Starting from $3,500 / person

Based on double occupancy. Single supplements may apply.

Duration7 Days / 6 Nights
Destinations7
TypeClassic Safari
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