Where to go

Safari circuits

With so many parks and itineraries to choose from, safaris to Tanzania are often divided into regional circuits, or groups of game parks whose geographical proximity and topographical variations make up a varied and diverse group. Some of the circuits are of course more travelled to than in others. Tanzania’s northern circuit alone easily attracts the majority of tourists. But the northern circuit’s fame and popularity means that other equally stunning but less well-known locations remain little-visited attractions whose beauty is known to only a few. The southern circuit contains the Selous Game Reserve – Africa’s largest game reserve which is larger than Denmark! Although the northern circuit is the most famous, venturing off the familiar path inevitably rewards visitors with the phenomenal scenery and wildlife experiences.

What follows is a brief write-up of the main attractions of each region in Tanzania, divided into circuits accordingly. Although the western and eastern circuits are not developed as full itineraries per se, there is still much in each region that warrants a discerning visitor’s attention. Of course, none of these circuits are a complete itinerary in itself, nor is it set in stone. Rather, they are regional suggestions for travellers wishing to explore a certain part of the country, or for return visitors to travel to some new place. Most safari operators will encourage you to select regions and areas to incorporate into your safari from a few or all of the circuits. Longer descriptions of each of the locations can be found in the ‘National Parks and Reserves’ section below.