14 Days | The Best of the Northern Circuit & Zanzibar

Shimmering alkaline lake

Lake Natron, which has a length of 58 kilometers and only a depth of 50 cm, shines on the sunlit Kenyan border northeast of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. This natural splendor must be a stop on every adventurer’s itinerary. The drive from Arusha, Mto wa Mbu or the northern Serengeti takes you through remote areas characterized by otherworldly beauty and an unparalleled sense of space and age. You will traverse traditional Maasai country, where you will encounter small boma’s and giant mountains.

At the lake itself, about two million flamingos gather from June to November, resulting in one of East Africa’s most impressive wildlife spectacles. On the southern shore of the lake, you can also enjoy stunning views of the volcano Ol Doinyo Lengai.

Ol Doinyo Lengai

“Ol Doinyo Lengai” means “The Mountain of God” in the Maasai language. The summit of this volcano is 2962 meters above sea level and offers a direct view of the caldera of Tanzania’s only officially recognized active volcano. This volcano has erupted twice in this century and is known for its unique low-temperature carbonation lava. A night moonlit climb to the summit of the famous Ol Doinyo Lengai is an unforgettable and mystical experience. But also one of the most challenging 1-day climbs in East Africa!

This hike is not for fearful or inexperienced hikers. It is worth it for the unparalleled views from the summit at sunrise. On a clear day, you can see the peaks of Mt. Meru and Kilimanjaro pierce the horizon to the east.

The hidden gem of northern Tanzania

The Pololeti Game Reserve is part of the Loliondo Game Controlled Area, now under the NCAA (Ngorongoro Conservation Area Authority). An important area for wildebeest and an intermediate area for animals from Serengeti NP. Because wildlife knows no boundaries, you will find a wide variety of wildlife here, including hunting lions, roaming elephants, grazing buffalo, running antelope and more.

Pololeti Game Reserve is a vast and beautiful nature reserve and is known for its pristine natural beauty and diverse wildlife populations. This area includes a wide range of ecosystems, including savannahs, forests and wetlands, which provide habitat for a rich variety of animals.

The game reserve is home to the iconic Big Five, including lions, elephants, leopards, buffalo and rhinos. It is also a haven for many other animal species, including giraffes, zebras, cheetahs and numerous bird species. The region offers exceptional safari experiences, with opportunities for game drives, guided walks and cultural encounters with local Maasai communities.

With a visit to this area, you’ll be treated to a truly authentic safari adventure, away from the crowds, where the focus is on conserving the remarkable wildlife and preserving the pristine natural environment.

Wildlife you can spot:

Lions | Elephants | Leopards | Buffalo | Rhinos | Giraffes | Zebras | Wildebeests | Cheetahs | Hyenas | Elk | Gazelles | Impalas | Crocodiles | Hippos | Dikdiks | Numerous bird species | Meerkats

From vast plains to rocky ‘kopjes’

With vast open plains stretching to the horizon and an abundance of wildlife, Serengeti National Park crowns itself a true paradise for any safari enthusiast. Hence, we recommend that you set aside several days for this.

Serengeti National Park covers an impressive area of nearly 15,000 square kilometers and is rightly the largest and perhaps most popular national park in Tanzania’s northern circuit and perhaps in all of Africa.

The Serengeti is known worldwide as host to the Great Migration and many big cats such as lions, cheetahs and cheetahs. However, elephants, giraffes, hippos, crocodiles, buffalo and impala are also common residents here. This area is extremely popular because of the high probability of witnessing a hunting party of these predators. The landscape in northern Serengeti NP is characterized by “kopjes,” rocky granite formations that are more than 550 million years old and often serve as lookouts for these feline hunters during their search for prey.

Wildlife you can spot:

Wildebeests | Zebras | Thomson’s gazelles | Lions | Cheetahs | Cheetahs | Cheetahs | Cheetahs | Elephants | Giraffes | Hippos | Crocodiles | Buffalo | Impalas | Hyenas | Rhinos | Warthogs | Waterbucks | Vultures | Baboons | Mongoose | Aardvarks | Serval Cats | Meerkats

The Great Trek of the Serengeti National Park

This is a natural spectacle that many people like to see during their safari trip in Tanzania. One of the highlights in Serengeti NP, but also one of the most difficult to spot. Every year, the six million wildebeest, and thousands of zebras and gazelles migrate through Serengeti National Park in search of fresh grass and water.

Seasonally, we know approximately where the Great Migration is located, but never exactly. This is due to many natural factors, which makes seeing the Great Migration very unique. Our drivers/guides always do their best to locate the Great Migration.

• January/February | Calf season in Southern Serengeti / Ndutu area
• March/April | From south to central Serengeti NP via the west side
• June/July | From central to north Serengeti NP
• August to October | The river crossing in Northern Serengeti NP
• November/December | From north to south Serengeti NP via the east side

World’s largest volcanic crater

Nothing can prepare you for the breathtaking beauty of Ngorongoro Crater. As you stand at the viewpoint and contemplate the Crater, you see the clouds drifting away around the crater rim and feel a cool, mountainous breeze. Mother Nature at her best. The Ngorongoro Crater is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the world’s largest volcanic crater that has dried up and created a whole new ecosystem. It is also called the 8th wonder of the world.

With its lush green grasslands, shimmering lakes and meandering rivers, the crater is home to many wild animals, including the Big Five (lions, elephants, buffalo, leopards and rhinos). It is also an essential resting place for migrating birds. In short, Ngorongoro Crater is an enchanting piece of nature that will surprise you with its unparalleled beauty and biodiversity.

Wildlife you can spot:

Lions | Leopards | Black Rhinos | Elephants | Buffalo | Zebras | Wildebeest | Waterbucks | Impalas | Hippos | Hyenas | Flamingos | Birds of Prey

Wildlife of Ngorongoro Crater

Ngorongoro Crater is home to an impressive variety of wildlife, making it one of the most remarkable wildlife sanctuaries in the world. In this natural amphitheater-like setting, you can witness powerful lions guarding their territory, elegant leopards deftly prowling through the grass, imposing black rhinos, herds of grazing buffalo and robust elephants strolling peacefully.

It is a place where the Big Five converge and where countless other animals, including zebras, giraffes, hippos and numerous bird species, also thrive. A safari in the Ngorongoro Crater is an unforgettable opportunity to come face to face with the magnificent animals that call this unique landscape home. Ngorongoro Crater is an absolute must-see on any tour of northern Tanzania.

Tree-climbing lions in Lake Manyara

Lake Manyara National Park is an underrated gem when it comes to safari parks in Tanzania. This park offers great ecological diversity in a compact area. The lake attracts many birds that thrive on the water. More than 400 species have been identified and one of the highlights are the thousands of flamingos.

From the park’s main entrance, the road winds through an area of pristine forest. On the grassy shores of the lake you can see wildebeest, giraffes, zebras and the great buffalo grazing throughout the day. The park also offers excellent opportunities to spot hippos. The mahogany and acacia trees are inhabited by the famous tree-climbing lions. With a little luck, you can see them lazing on a tree branch!

Wildlife you can spot:

Elephants | Lions | Leopards | Giraffes | Baboons | Waterbucks | Impalas | Warthogs | Hippos | Crocodiles | Bushbucks | Dikdiks | Wildebeest | Zebras | Hyenas | Flamingos | Pelicans | Ospreys

Wildlife in Lake Manyara National Park

Lake Manyara National Park, located in Tanzania, is known for its diverse and abundant wildlife. The park is home to numerous animal species, including elephants, lions, leopards, giraffes and baboons. One of the park’s most striking features is the presence of tree-climbing lions that often nest in the acacia trees.

In addition to large mammals, Lake Manyara NP also offers a paradise for bird lovers, with more than 400 species of birds, including flamingos, pelicans and ospreys found along the shores of the beautiful lake. The diversity of wildlife and the scenic beauty of the lake make a visit to Lake Manyara National Park an unforgettable experience for nature and safari enthusiasts.

Marching herds of elephants

Tarangire National Park is a fun and impressive wildlife park! On the way from Arusha to Lake Manyara you will pass this beautiful wildlife park, which is known for its large groups of elephants and ancient Baobab trees. There is plenty of wildlife to see, as a large river flows through it and the terrain is open.

In the dry season, the Tarangire River is the only permanent source of water for all wildlife and thus the place to easily spot wildlife. Tarangire National Park is 2850 square kilometers, making it the sixth largest park in Tanzania. After Serengeti National Park it offers the highest concentration of wildlife. Tarangire is known for its Baobab trees. Their impressive, thick trunks store water and provide a source of food and shade for many animal species. These iconic trees are not only a natural treasure, but also a symbol of the beauty and resilience of the African wilderness.

Wildlife you can spot:

Wildebeest | Zebras | Buffalo | Gazelles | Rhinos | Warthogs | Impalas | Pythons | Lions | Leopards | Nearly 500 bird species

Wildlife of the Tarangire National Park

Tarangire National Park in Tanzania is known for its abundance of wildlife and as wonderful safari experiences. Here you can see huge elephants roaming in large herds, feasting on the succulent vegetation. The park is also home to troops of baboons playfully swinging through the trees, leopards lurking in the shade, lions dominating the savannah and countless giraffes walking elegantly along the horizon. With its rich and varied wildlife, Tarangire NP offers an unforgettable adventure for nature and safari lovers.

Kilimanjaro National Park: discover the roof of Africa

Mount Kilimanjaro is the highest mountain in Africa and a real eye-catcher of Tanzania. The densely forested base of the mountain slowly turns into grassy plains and rocky outcrops. Only to end with a summit covered in “eternal snow. You can see this snow-capped mountain peak from afar, provided it is not cloudy! This typical Tanzanian landscape with Kilimanjaro included, invites you to stop for a moment during your drive to the first accommodation or on the way back to the airport.

This free-standing mountain, which is also the highest free-standing mountain in the world, is part of Kilimanjaro National Park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The area offers beautiful hiking trails. From impressive hikes to imposing waterfalls to multi-day treks to the summit located at 5,895 meters. The base of Kilimanjaro has many coffee plantations, where you can get educational tours. Of course with a delicious fresh cup of coffee at the end.

Experiencing Kilimanjaro without summit ambitions

For travelers who prefer to keep both feet on the ground, there are several ways to experience the beauty of Kilimanjaro up close.

One of the most popular options is a day trip to Mount Kilimanjaro. You take a day hike to Mandara Hut via the Marangu Route. This trek takes you through cloud forest and bamboo forests, past tropical wildlife and monkeys. With no risk of altitude sickness, you will enjoy a fantastic introduction to the mountain landscape here. You walk up to about 2,700 meters altitude and return after lunch. This day hike is perfect for those who want to be active but are not looking for a multi-day trek.

Prefer a cultural experience? Then opt for a combination of the Materuni waterfall and a traditional coffee tour. After a short walk through the forest, you will be rewarded with a view of an impressive waterfall. Afterwards, you will visit a Chagga family who will tell you all about growing, roasting and brewing local Arabica coffee.

You can also experience Kilimanjaro by 4×4. The drive to the Shira Plateau takes you to an altitude of about 3,500 meters without too much effort. Here a panorama of the national park awaits, a unique place for a picnic or photo stop if you ask us.

For relaxation after an active day, a visit to the Kikuletwa hot springs is highly recommended. The warm, clear water offers a wonderful contrast to the fresh mountain air of the Kilimanjaro region.

For those who want to climb: routes and tips

Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest mountain, is an epic adventure that attracts adventurers from all over the world. This majestic mountain, rises to a height of 5,895 meters above sea level and offers a unique opportunity to traverse diverse climatic zones, from tropical rainforests to alpine deserts.

Kilimanjaro is not a technical climb and requires no mountaineering experience, but it is a physical and mental challenge. You will be rewarded with breathtaking views and a sense of accomplishment when you reach the summit, called Uhuru Peak. Along the way, you will pass through a stunning variety of landscapes and ecosystems and have the chance to enjoy the rich flora and fauna of Kilimanjaro National Park.

Climbing Kilimanjaro is an unforgettable adventure that is a true bucket list experience for beginners and experienced mountaineers alike. It is a journey that tests not only the physical strength but also the determination and perseverance of those trying to reach the summit.

Combine Kilimanjaro with your tour

Thanks to its location close to Kilimanjaro International Airport, a visit to the national park is ideal as the start or end of your safari. Many of our travelers opt for a day hike on the day of arrival, or just as a rest before the return flight. The coffee tour or hot springs are also easy to combine with our accommodations in the region.

At Paradise & Wilderness we take the organization out of your hands, so you only have to focus on enjoying yourself. So ask us about the possibilities to make your visit to Kilimanjaro as suitable as possible.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is climbing Kilimanjaro dangerous?
Not if you are well prepared. The climb is physically challenging, but not technical. With proper guidance and acclimatization, it is achievable for many people.

Is it possible to hike Kilimanjaro in one day?
Yes, you can explore part of Kilimanjaro on a day trip. You then walk up to a certain point on the mountain, depending on your route and fitness level. Reaching the summit in one day is not possible (and medically irresponsible), but you will experience the magic of the mountain.

Can I visit Kilimanjaro even with a fear of heights?
Sure. Day trips stay below 3,000 meters and have no steep precipices. You decide how far you go.

What is the lightest activity around Kilimanjaro?
A coffee tour or a drive to the hot springs is low-key and cultural, ideal for families or those seeking peace and quiet.

Are day trips suitable for children?
Yes, especially the waterfall and coffee tours are great for young travelers.

What do I take with me on a day trip?
Sturdy shoes, a daypack with a small first aid kit, sunscreen, raincoat, food, at least 1.5 liters of water and your camera. A walking stick may also be nice. We provide a professional guide.

How hard is the hike physically? Do I need to be fit?
You don’t have to be an athlete, but a reasonable basic level of fitness is important. You will be walking for hours uphill and at altitude, which can be tiring. With enough rest and a leisurely pace, it is doable for active travelers.

Will I get a guide during the day trip?
Yes, a certified guide is mandatory on every trek on Kilimanjaro. He or she will accompany you, explain nature and ensure your safety.

What are the chances of fog, rain or cold?
The weather can change quickly. It is often clear in the morning, but fog or rain sets in in the afternoon. It can get chilly, so dress in layers.

Other excursions near Kilimanjaro

Want to extend your visit to Kilimanjaro National Park with other special activities in the region? Paradise & Wilderness offers several day trips that combine well:

• Materuni Waterfall & Coffee Tour.
  A guided hike to the impressive Materuni Waterfall, followed by a traditional coffee tour with a Chagga family.
• Kikuletwa Hotsprings.
  Relax in natural hot springs, also known as Chemka Springs, surrounded by tropical greenery.
• Hike at Lake Duluti
  A peaceful forest and canoe hike around the atmospheric crater lake near Arusha, easily accessible from the Kilimanjaro region.
• Canoeing on Lake Duluti
  For those who prefer to go out on the water alone: a calm canoeing experience in a unique natural setting.

Wondering what best suits your trip? Check out all our excursions and easily put together your ideal day program.

Plan your trip to Kilimanjaro National Park

Want to experience Kilimanjaro without worries? Opt for a fully arranged day trip through Paradise & Wilderness. Let us know what you’re looking for (active, cultural or relaxing) and we’ll take care of the rest.

What to do on Zanzibar.

We find that question very easy to answer: “A lot!” Zanzibar is a super versatile island where you can spend days getting lost in culture, nature and tropical relaxation. Think snorkeling in clear blue water, walking through ancient cities or spotting monkeys in the rainforest, it’s all possible here. In this blog we give you tips for the most beautiful sights and activities on Zanzibar and tell you how Paradise & Wilderness helps you get the most out of your safari.

Zanzibar in facts & figures

• Population: About 1.3 million people live on Zanzibar.
• Language: The official language on Zanzibar is Swahili, but English is also widely spoken.
• Climate: The weather on Zanzibar is wonderful. There is a tropical climate with an average temperature between 25°C and 33°C. The sun shines here all year with the exception of the rainy season from March to early May.
• Coastline: Zanzibar has more than 25 beaches, with powder-white sand and turquoise waters. The east and north are especially popular with travelers.
• UNESCO World Heritage: Stone Town, the old town of Zanzibar City, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site thanks to its unique blend of Arab, African and European influences.
• Spices: Zanzibar is also called the “Spice Island” because of its production of cloves, cinnamon, nutmeg and pepper, among others.
• Wildlife: Zanzibar is home to the rare red colobus monkey (Red Colobus monkey), an endemic species.
• Distance from Tanzania (mainland): Only 25 to 50 km from the coast, reached by ferry (about 2 hours) or domestic flight (about 30 minutes to an hour and a half).
• Safety: Zanzibar is a safe destination for tourists.

Is Zanzibar really that beautiful?

Absolutely. Think swaying palms, powder-soft sand and an Indian Ocean full of shades of turquoise, plus a mix of sultan history and Swahili culture you won’t find anywhere else. No wonder Zanzibar pops up as a must-see so often on travel bucket lists. This blog will help you choose from the huge range of Zanzibar activities and show you which getaways Paradise & Wilderness can arrange for you.

The days at the beach at the Reef and Beach hotel were paradise! – Esther P. via Tripadvisor

What must you have seen on Zanzibar?

• Stone Town: Wander the labyrinthine alleys and discover doors full of carvings, ancient slave markets and the House of Wonders. Our guides will bring the stories of this ancient city to life.
• Prison Island: Sail in twenty minutes to an island with giant Aldabra tortoises and ruins of a prison that was never used.
• Jozani Forest: Spot the rare Red Colobus monkey in the lush mangrove forest, one of the most interesting sights on Zanzibar.

This already gets you the headline “Must see Zanzibar,” but there is more.

What can you do on Zanzibar?

Zanzibar has a rich history and culture combined with beautiful beaches and an azure blue sea. So it is the perfect destination for the adventurous traveler and the laid-back vacationer. Some of our most popular excursions include:

• Spice Tour: Smell, taste and pick cloves, cinnamon and exotic fruits at a local spice farm; perfect for food lovers.
• Blue Safari: Board a traditional dhow, snorkel above coral gardens around a sandbar and finish with a fresh lobster lunch.
• Mnemba snorkeling trip: Crystal clear waters and high chances of seeing dolphins around this private islet make it the topper among all Zanzibar activities.
• Stone Town tour: Explore the spice markets, seafood and fish market, fresh breads in wicker baskets and the neat piles of fruits and vegetables sold by locals from their mini stalls.

These activities should also not be missing from your schedule

• Lovely horseback riding on the beach
• Visit to the Kuza Cave and the Seaweed Farm
• Meeting giant tortoises at Prison Island
• Sunset underwater adventure
• Relaxing on a lovely sandbar
• Cooking class traditional Swahili cuisine
• Mangapwani Historical Cave

With this list, you’ll tick off various Zanzibar sights as well as adventurous Zanzibar activities.

What is the best month to go to Zanzibar?

For sun, sea and beach lovers, June to February are ideal: little rain, pleasant 28-30 °C and excellent underwater visibility. The wettest months are March, April and early May; November has short, mild showers.

If our travel consultant Anouk were allowed to fill in her ideal day on Zanzibar, it would look like this:

09.00 Relaxed start to the day at Paradise Beach Resort
13.00 Stone Town Tour with our friendly guide
18.00 Sunset boat ride
8 p.m. Delicious dinner at Paradise Beach Resort
22.00 Afterglow about the great experiences of the day over a cocktail on the beach

Thus Anouk effortlessly combines culture, nature and relaxation, exactly the paradise-and-wilderness feeling we stand for. Would you like to experience this too? Book your excursions and tick off your own “Zanzibar must see” list!

Why Paradise & Wilderness is the expert:

At Paradise & Wilderness you experience Zanzibar as it really is. Our colleagues live and work on the island, so they know not only the hotspots, but also the hidden gems. Your trip is planned from the Netherlands so you have quick and clear contact, all our guides are local, our accommodations are in the most beautiful places and all excursions are sustainable and personally arranged. Because we own everything from domestic flights and transfers, to accommodations and excursions, you not only get a competitive price, but also the best quality and service. Moreover, we are Travellife-certified and CO2-neutral during game drives. So you travel responsibly and unforgettably.

Click here and plan your unforgettable day trips, snorkeling trips and cultural getaways, directly with our Zanzibar experts.

FAQ:

What are the most beautiful sights in Zanzibar?
Zanzibar’s top attractions are Stone Town, Prison Island, the Jozani Forest with red colobus monkeys, and the spice farms. These places combine culture, nature and history.

What can you do on Zanzibar?
Zanzibar offers a mix of relaxation and adventure: snorkeling at Mnemba Island, taking a Spice Tour, boating on the Blue Safari or wandering the alleys of Stone Town. There are also unique animals to spot in the rainforest.

How many days do you need for Zanzibar?
For a good combination of relaxation and experience, 5 to 10 days are ideal. This gives you time for culture, nature, beach and excursions. But shorter or longer is of course always possible, together we make a suitable schedule for your travel duration.

Is Zanzibar suitable for families?
Yes, Zanzibar is safe and child-friendly. Excursions such as snorkeling, turtles on Prison Island and the Jozani Forest are also fun and educational for children.

Why book your trip to Zanzibar with Paradise & Wilderness?
Because with us, you don’t just book, you experience. We arrange everything ourselves, are sustainably certified and provide authentic experiences, with guides who know the real Zanzibar.

Is Zanzibar suitable in combination with a safari in Tanzania?
Sure! We offer several trips that combine safari and relaxation, but we are also happy to consider your personal preferences. The north of Tanzania is about a 1.5-hour flight from Zanzibar and the south is about a 30-minute flight.