Northern Circuit

RUAHA NATIONAL PARK Your Ruaha National Park Safari Adventure Here Ruaha National Park stands as Tanzania’s largest national park, boasting an untamed atmosphere that captivates all our guests. Untouched and rugged, it offers a wilder and more remote experience compared to its southern neighbor, the Selous Game Reserve, yet boasts superior wildlife sightings, albeit without boating safaris. Safaris in Ruaha present exceptional value for money and rank among the finest in the country. Situated west of the Selous Game Reserve and south of the Serengeti, Ruaha’s relative seclusion ensures fewer tourists than the Selous and less foot traffic than any comparable park in the Northern circuit. The allure of this remote destination lies in its wild landscape, adorned with baobab-studded hills and rocky escarpments, teeming with extraordinary wildlife. Named after the Great Ruaha River, which flows along its southeastern margin, the park revolves around this lifeline, offering unparalleled game-viewing opportunities. Lion sightings are particularly rewarding, with predator concentrations surpassing many other parks in the country. Characterized by semi-arid vegetation, baobab trees, and acacia, Ruaha boasts over 1,650 identified plant species. Discover the Rich Wildlife of Ruaha National Park Ruaha safaris promise thrilling encounters with impressive predator concentrations. The park is a sanctuary for 10% of the world’s lion population, with prides often exceeding 20 lions. Additionally, it harbors one of East Africa’s four cheetah populations and ranks third globally in wild dog numbers. During the dry season, elephants gather in high densities around dry riverbeds, utilizing their trunks and front feet to excavate water sources. What truly excites wildlife enthusiasts is Ruaha’s unique blend of species from East and Southern Africa. Here, you may spot Grant’s gazelle, greater kudu, and lesser kudu coexisting with East Africa’s common species like zebra, defassa waterbuck, impala, and giraffe. Venture deeper into the park to encounter elusive species such as sable, roan, hartebeest, and over 570 bird species, including the iconic Ruaha red-billed hornbill, making it a premier birdwatching destination. Migrant birds flock to Ruaha during the rainy season from February to April, adding to the park’s biodiversity. Reptiles and amphibians, including various snakes, monitor lizards, crocodiles, agama lizards, and frogs, further enhance the park’s ecological richness. Best Time to Visit Ruaha National Park June-Nov: Dry Season December: Annual Rains Jan-March: Green Season April-May: Closed Ruaha shines brightest during the dry season from June to November, offering optimal wildlife sightings, especially of large mammals and big cats. As water sources dwindle, game concentrates around rivers, making them easier to spot. Birding enthusiasts should visit during the rainy season from February to March to witness the arrival of migrant birds. During this time, the park transforms into a lush paradise adorned with blooming baobabs and vibrant wildflowers, providing stunning landscapes for photography. Traveling to Ruaha during the off-season guarantees solitude and the chance to encounter wildlife in serene surroundings. Whether visiting in or out of season, Ruaha promises an unforgettable safari experience, showcasing the raw beauty of Tanzania’s wilderness. Ruaha seamlessly complements a Serengeti safari or a tranquil Zanzibar beach retreat. It also harmonizes perfectly with the Selous. Despite being Tanzania’s largest national park and teeming with wildlife, Ruaha remains one of the least crowded destinations in the country, offering remote and exclusive safari experiences. Its untamed ambiance distinguishes it from other reserves, making it a preferred choice for seasoned East African safari enthusiasts. If you have any inquiries about Ruaha National Park, don’t hesitate to reach out. What are you waiting for? Begin crafting your next grand adventure today! Request a tour Contact us. Our team is always here to help.

LAKE EYASI Begin your Lake Eyasi Safari Adventure Now Lake Eyasi, surpassing Lake Manyara in size, boasts fluctuating saline borders determined by annual rainfall. During dry spells, water levels plummet, allowing the Datoga and Hadzabe tribes to traverse the lake on foot. Amidst this harsh environment, distinctive doum palms offer cooling shade, while breathtaking sunsets paint the sky, making Lake Eyasi a haven for photography enthusiasts on a Tanzania safari. Set against the imposing western flank of the Rift Valley, Lake Eyasi’s northeastern tip basks in the shadow of Oldeani Mountain, bordering the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Nestled within the ancient Eastern Rift Valley, Lake Eyasi stretches northeast to southwest below the 3000-foot escarpment, adjacent to Serengeti National Park and the Maswa Game Reserve. To the southeast lies the Yaida Valley, home to the Hadzabe tribe of hunter-gatherers. Though not primarily a wildlife destination, Lake Eyasi offers a wild, scenically stunning backdrop providing insight into the lifestyles of Tanzania’s fascinating tribes, notably the Hadzabe and Datoga. For travelers seeking genuine cultural immersion off the beaten path, a visit to the Hadzabe bushmen near Lake Eyasi is essential. Explore further authentic experiences with Mirable Safaris, all designed to connect with local communities while leaving a positive impact. Discover the Datoga Tribe at Lake Eyasi Similar to the Maasai, the Datoga tribe are pastoralists, but they also possess a unique skill: silversmithing. Unlike the Maasai, the Datoga are adept at crafting iron tips, knives, and spears, which they trade with the Hadzabe in exchange for honey and fruits. Their roots trace back to the Horn of Africa, believed to have migrated some 3,000 years ago. Adorned in traditional attire adorned with vibrant beads, Datoga women often sport facial scarification as a symbol of beauty. Their attire, blending seamlessly with the environment, consists of reddish-brown garments reminiscent of the soil, complemented by patchwork leather dresses, ornate necklaces, intricate beadwork, and embellished bracelets. Notably, circular facial scarification patterns around the eyes distinguish the Datoga from other tribes, adding to their rich cultural heritage. Exciting Activities to Experience at Lake Eyasi On an early morning hunt alongside the Hadza men, witnessing their remarkable skills with bow and arrows. Engage in lessons led by Hadza men and boys, learning the art of using the traditional bow and arrow. Explore unique cultural treasures as you purchase intricately beaded items from Hadza women and miniature spears and jewelry from the Datoga tribe. Immerse yourself in the traditional Datoga way of life with a visit to a homestead run by the women of the tribe. Witness the craftsmanship of the Datoga Silversmiths at their outdoor workshop, gaining insight into their traditional techniques. Contribute to the community by distributing solar lights to the Datoga tribe, making a positive impact on their daily lives. Unwind with sundowners at the serene lakeshore, soaking in the tranquil beauty of Lake Eyasi. We strive to showcase the beauty of Lake Eyasi and its vibrant inhabitants. If you’re interested in including this captivating destination in your tailor-made Tanzania safari, don’t hesitate to reach out. Contact us for more information or to create your personalized itinerary. Let Mirable Safaris be your guide as you embark on your next unforgettable adventure! Design the safari of your dreams Looking for a little more choice? A little more luxury? We can help: Our private safaris are personalized to your every desire. DESIGN A PRIVATE SAFARI

LAKE MANYARA NATIONAL PARK Discover the Tranquil Beauty of Lake Manyara National Park Located en route from Arusha to the iconic Ngorongoro Crater and Serengeti National Park, Lake Manyara National Park is a gem nestled between the majestic Great Rift Valley and the alkaline waters of Lake Manyara. Esteemed by Ernest Hemingway as “the loveliest I had seen in Africa,” this picturesque park extends 50 kilometers along the Rift Valley escarpment, offering a scenic backdrop unmatched in its beauty. Although it may not boast the dense wildlife concentrations found in some of Tanzania’s larger parks, Lake Manyara is renowned for its unique tree-climbing lions, friendly troops of baboons, sizable elephant herds, and diverse birdlife, making it a quintessential addition to any Tanzania photography safari. The park’s varied ecosystems and stunning vistas provide an idyllic setting for visitors. As you traverse the game-viewing circuit, you’ll enter through a gate leading to a road winding through a verdant groundwater forest, where you’re likely to see baboons relaxing by the roadside, blue monkeys darting through mahogany trees, bushbucks moving stealthily through the underbrush, and forest hornbills calling from the treetops, creating a microcosm of Tanzanian wildlife and landscapes. Experience Premier Birdwatching at Lake Manyara National Park Experience on a birdwatching adventure in Lake Manyara National Park, a renowned haven for avian enthusiasts. This lush park offers an exceptional variety of habitats that attract hundreds of bird species, making it a prime spot for birdwatching on a Tanzanian safari. From the alkaline shores of Lake Manyara, home to vibrant flocks of flamingos, to the dense canopies of the groundwater forest bustling with forest species, birdwatchers can delight in discovering a rich tapestry of feathered inhabitants throughout the park. Discover the Unique Wildlife of Lake Manyara: From Tree-Climbing Lions to Baboons and Beyond Lake Manyara National Park boasts a distinctive wildlife spectacle, including the world-famous tree-climbing lions. Unique to this region, these lions are often spotted lounging in the branches of mahogany and acacia trees during the rainy season, offering a rare and fascinating sight. The park also claims the highest density of baboons globally, making it a prime location for those particularly interested in primate safaris. Beyond the dense woodlands, the open grassy floodplains provide panoramic views eastward across the lake toward the dramatic volcanic peaks rising starkly from the expansive Maasai steppes. Here, large herds of buffalo, wildebeest, and zebra converge, mingling with unusually dark-colored giraffes that appear nearly black from a distance. Mongoose bands dash among the acacias while the petite Kirk’s dik-dik seeks shade underneath. Towards the southern end of the park, klipspringer are often observed poised on rocky outcrops above the sizzling hot springs that steam beside the lakeshore. Lake Manyara’s diverse habitats and unique wildlife are ideal for both first-time visitors on a Tanzanian family safari and seasoned explorers seeking new adventures. Exploring Lake Manyara National Park Accessibility: Lake Manyara National Park is compact and conveniently located, making it an ideal stop when traveling from Arusha to Ngorongoro or the Serengeti. Though small, the park is rich with sights, allowing visitors to experience its highlights within a day or half-day tour. Our expertise in the region enables us to showcase its wonders efficiently, ensuring you don’t miss out on any of the park’s attractions even during brief visits. Best Time to Visit: While the peak season runs from July to October, Lake Manyara offers rewarding wildlife viewing opportunities year-round. Its status as a small park means that seasonal variations have less impact on the visitor experience. It serves as an excellent introduction to a Tanzanian safari, especially for those embarking on the Northern Tanzania circuit. Accommodations: Lake Manyara Tree Lodge stands out as the only lodge situated within the park boundaries, offering an immersive nature experience. However, many choose to stay outside the park close to the main gate, which allows for early morning access and full-day exploration. The Rift Valley escarpment nearby hosts numerous accommodations, featuring spectacular views over the valley and the lake. Opting to stay outside the park near the Rift Valley or in the adjacent Karatu area can enhance your visit with additional activities like village tours, hiking, and mountain biking. Plan Your Visit: Let Lake Manyara National Park be a highlight on your grand Tanzania Safari Tour. For further inquiries or to tailor a unique itinerary that suits your preferences, don’t hesitate to contact us at Mirable Safaris. What are you waiting for? Begin planning your next unforgettable adventure today! Request a tour Contact us. Our team is always here to help.

TARANGIRE NATIONAL PARK Join us on a Tarangire Safari! Often described as Tanzania’s most underrated national park, Tarangire National Park is one of Africa’s hidden gems and a must-visit on any northern circuit itinerary. With only a fraction of the Serengeti’s visitors, it offers a more exclusive and spacious experience. Tarangire boasts a diverse array of wildlife and landscapes, and it is home to the largest population of elephants in Tanzania, making it arguably the best place in the world to see African elephants. With four of the Big Five residing in the park, it’s an excellent spot for a day trip from Arusha or as an addition to a Serengeti/Ngorongoro-focused itinerary. Tarangire National Park is situated between the Maasai Steppe meadows to the southeast and the lakes of the Great Rift Valley to the north and west, about 120 kilometers from Arusha. As one of the most seasonal parks in northern Tanzania, Tarangire experiences significant migratory movement within its ecosystem. This dynamic environment makes Tarangire a fantastic park to revisit on a second or third safari, as it always has something new to offer. WILDLIFE IN TARANGIRE NATIONAL PARK The wildlife you encounter in Tarangire National Park varies with the seasons. From November to May, some animals leave the park, but they return to the Tarangire swamps during the dry season, from June to October, especially around the river system. During this time, herds of up to 300 elephants search the dry riverbed for underground streams, while migratory buffalo, impala, wildebeest, zebra, gazelle, hartebeest, and eland gather around the shrinking lagoons. The park hosts the greatest concentration of wildlife outside the Serengeti, making it a haven for predators. It’s also the only place in Tanzania where dry-country antelope like the fringe-eared oryx and long-necked gerenuk are regularly seen. The swamps attract 550 bird species, boasting the highest number of breeding species in one habitat anywhere in the world, making Tarangire a renowned safari destination for bird enthusiasts. Common animals in Tarangire include leopards, lions, hyenas, and cheetahs, which are often found in the southern open areas. However, the thick vegetation can make spotting these predators more challenging compared to other parks in northern Tanzania. The park’s large elephant populations and colossal baobab trees make it a popular destination for photography safaris. If time permits, we recommend staying for a few days in the southern part of the park, as it is less crowded and offers a more immersive backcountry experience. PLANT LIFE IN TARANGIRE NATIONAL PARK The name of the park comes from the Tarangire River, which flows through it and serves as the only water source for wildlife during the dry seasons. Although the river itself can become extremely dry, even more so than the Serengeti, the vegetation in Tarangire remains much greener. The park is characterized by lush elephant grass, extensive mixed acacia woodlands, and iconic baobab trees. The baobab, also known as the Tree of Life, is especially prominent in Tarangire. These trees can store between 300 and 1000 liters of water in their trunks and can live up to 600 years. Additionally, the park features numerous wide swamps that transform into green plains during the dry season, particularly in the south. The vegetation is dominated by dry open woods, acacia thickets, and significant baobab trees. ACTIVITIES IN TARANGIRE Tarangire offers more than just traditional game drives. It is an ideal destination for those looking to explore the region through various activities. Walking safaris provide the opportunity to study the smallest creatures and learn about animal tracking up close. For a completely different perspective, you can take a dawn hot-air balloon ride or go on a night drive to observe nocturnal wildlife. With so many incredible ways to explore Tarangire, Mirable Safaris has the local knowledge and resources to make your adventure unforgettable! Request a tour Contact us. Our team is always here to help.

SERENGETI NATIONAL PARK Experience the ultimate adventure with a Serengeti safari tour, exploring the greatest wildlife destination on the planet. Experience on an unforgettable journey to the Serengeti National Park, where you’ll witness the awe-inspiring spectacle of millions of wildebeest migrating across the acacia plains. This phenomenon alone makes it a destination of unparalleled beauty and significance, but the Serengeti offers so much more. It’s not just a sanctuary for wildlife; it’s also the cradle of human life and arguably the closest you’ll get to experiencing an untouched African wilderness. In the Serengeti, time seems to stand still amidst the perpetual movement of thousands of animals. Describing the magic of this place is a challenge, as it’s truly a feast for the senses. The breathtaking views are matched only by the symphony of sounds created by the mass migration of wildebeest, vibrating through the very core of your being. It’s an experience you’ll attempt to convey to loved ones, only to realize its ineffable nature. And let’s not forget the mesmerizing sunsets that bathe the plains in golden hues, a sight worth the journey in itself. Beyond its natural wonders, the Serengeti is also home to the Maasai people, warm and welcoming natives eager to share their way of life with visitors. While the Serengeti enchants year-round, the period between July and October holds particular significance, as it marks the time of the Great Migration’s river crossings in the Northern Serengeti. And as you journey to this iconic park, don’t miss the opportunity to explore our guide to the neighboring Ngorongoro Conservation Area, adding another layer of wonder to your African adventure. The Ngorongoro Conservation Area holds the prestigious status of being a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Since 1979, the Ngorongoro Conservation Area (NCA) has held UNESCO World Heritage Site status for its rich wildlife and land. Now, its cultural heritage is set to be included, making it the only place globally where human communities and a diverse wildlife population coexist harmoniously. Its innovative multiple land use systems, established early on, serve as a model for balancing natural resource conservation and human development. Moreover, the NCA boasts numerous archaeological, paleontological, and anthropological sites of exceptional significance. For travelers intrigued by Tanzania’s cultural offerings, particularly the Ngorongoro Crater, Mirable Safaris offers a unique opportunity. Immerse yourself in Tanzanian culture, either through experiences that positively impact local lives or by firsthand exploration in a sensitive and responsible manner. YOUR NGORONGORO CRATER HOLIDAY The Ngorongoro Crater, once a towering volcanic mountain comparable in height to Kilimanjaro, now stands as the world’s largest inactive, unbroken, and unfilled volcanic caldera. Formed approximately three million years ago when a massive volcano erupted and collapsed, the crater plunges to a depth of 610 meters, encompassing a base area of 260 square kilometers. Its original volcano likely soared between 4,500 to 5,800 meters in height. Within the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, aside from the main caldera, lie two other volcanic craters: Olmoti and Empakai. Olmoti is renowned for its picturesque waterfalls, while Empakai captivates with its deep lake and verdant walls. Nestled on the leeward side of the Ngorongoro Highlands, protected from the wind, is Ol Doinyo Lengai, Tanzania’s third-highest peak after Kilimanjaro and Meru, and an active volcano. Revered by locals as the “Mountain of God,” it last erupted significantly in 2007. At its base lies Lake Natron, a primary breeding ground for flamingos in East Africa. Explore our guide to Lake Natron for further insights. Encounter the captivating wildlife during your Ngorongoro safari. Within the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, thrive over 25,000 large animals, among which approximately 26 black rhinoceros roam, though their exact numbers remain undisclosed for their protection. Venturing higher into the rainforests of the crater rim reveals a diverse array of wildlife, including majestic elephants, elusive leopards, mountain reedbuck, formidable buffalos, rare wild dogs, cunning spotted hyenas, jackals, cheetahs, and other feline predators. Notably, the crater boasts the densest-known lion population in the region. Witness the awe-inspiring spectacle of the annual zebra and wildebeest migration as it traverses Ngorongoro. Around December, approximately 2 million ungulates journey south into the area, only to migrate back northward come June. This migratory procession gracing the plains of the NCA comprises 1.8 million wildebeest, 200,000 zebras, and 350,000 gazelles. In the western expanse, the Lake Ndutu area teems with a substantial population of cheetahs and lions. Moreover, the Ngorongoro Conservation Area hosts a rich avian population, with over 500 species of birds documented, including the majestic white pelican, graceful ostrich, and the striking greater and lesser flamingos adorning Lake Magadi within the crater and Lake Ndutu. Explore the diverse vegetation of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Ngorongoro boasts a rich tapestry of vegetation, encompassing desert plants alongside lush greenery nourished by rainfall. The landscape comprises abundant short grasslands ideal for grazing, arid and semi-arid plant communities, uncultivated lowland vegetation, and flourishing highland forests. On Oldeani Mountain and Makarut Mountain’s Pencil Cedar slopes to the west, vast expanses of pure bamboo thrive. Dove-weeds dominate the lower slopes, while upland woodlands host Red Thorn Acacia and Gum Acacia, vital for watershed protection. The slopes of the crater are adorned with scrub heath, expansive open moorlands, grasslands, and remnants of dense evergreen forests. Notable highland trees including Yellow-Wood, Kousso (Hagenia abyssinica), Peacock Flower, and Sweet Olive add to the area’s uniqueness, making it an enchanting stop on our Photography Safaris in Tanzania. The crater basin features open short grass plains interspersed with freshwater lakes, swamps, marshes, and two patches of Acacia woodland. Laiyanai Forest boasts Pillar Wood and Acacia Lahai, while Lerai Forest is home to the Yellow Fever tree and Acacia species. To the west, the grass-covered plains occasionally feature Umbrella Acacia and Commiphora Africana trees. In drier conditions near Lake Eyasi, Blackthorn Acacia and Zebrawood dominate. These extensive grasslands and bush areas remain largely untouched by cultivation, providing vital habitat for thriving animal populations. THE NGORONGORO CRATER: THE CRADLE OF HUMANITY At the NCA’s far end lies the renowned archaeological

ARUSHA NATIONAL PARK Exploring the idea on a safari in Arusha National Park? Situated just a brief drive away from Arusha and Moshi, Arusha National Park stands as Tanzania’s most accessible national reserve, making it an ideal destination for a day excursion or the initial leg of an extended Tanzanian safari. Despite its compact size, this park boasts a wealth of attractions, featuring the majestic slopes, summit, and ash cone of Mt. Meru, Ngurdoto Crater, the picturesque Momella Lakes, and the verdant highland forests that blanket its lower elevations. Often overlooked by many safari enthusiasts, Arusha National Park presents a multifaceted gem, offering a diverse range of habitats to explore within just a few hours. Following your adventure in Arusha NP, consider extending your journey to discover other awe-inspiring national parks in Tanzania. Delve into our guides on Tarangire National Park and Serengeti National Park to uncover more unforgettable experiences awaiting your exploration. Arusha National Park Wildlife Experience a serene and unhurried game viewing adventure around the tranquil Momella Lakes in Arusha. Amidst the forested terrain, many visitors pause to catch glimpses of rare colobus monkeys frolicking in the treetops. While elephants are a rarity and lions are absent, the early morning and late afternoon offer opportunities to spot leopards and spotted hyenas. Graceful giraffes traverse the grassy hills, mingling with herds of grazing zebras, while the agile dik-diks dart into the undergrowth. Arusha National Park boasts exceptional birding opportunities year-round, with peak sightings occurring between November and April when migratory birds from Europe and North Africa grace the skies alongside local species in their vibrant breeding plumage. Venture beyond the park’s entrance gate to discover a mystical montane forest inhabited by inquisitive blue monkeys and adorned with the vibrant plumage of turacos and trogons. Here, amidst the forest’s verdant embrace, the acrobatic black-and-white colobus monkeys steal the spotlight. Nestled within this forest wonderland lies the breathtaking Ngurdoto Crater, its rocky cliffs encircling a marshy expanse inhabited by herds of warthogs and buffalo. Journeying northward, you’ll encounter rolling grassy hills cradling the serene beauty of the Momella Lakes, each adorned with a unique hue of green or blue. At times, these lakes host shallow waters teeming with thousands of flamingos. The lakes serve as a haven for a diverse array of migrant and resident waterfowl, as well as majestic waterbucks showcasing their distinctive lyre-shaped horns. Exploring Activities at Arusha National Park CLIMBING ARUSHA’S MOUNT MERU Experiencing on the ascent of Mount Meru stands as one of the most popular activities for visitors to Arusha National Park. The three-day journey to the summit of the crater offers a quieter and potentially more challenging alternative to nearby Mount Kilimanjaro. For those not inclined to tackle the rigorous climb, the park’s lower slopes boast smaller trails leading to rivers and waterfalls, providing a leisurely day hike option. Other highlights include the ancient fig tree forests, pristine mountain streams, and the chance to spot colobus monkeys. At dawn and dusk, the eastern horizon often unveils the majestic snow-capped peaks of Kilimanjaro, situated just 30 miles (50 km) away. However, it’s Mount Meru, Kilimanjaro’s lesser-known cousin, that commands the park’s skyline. As the fifth highest mountain in Africa at 14,990 feet (4,566 meters), Mount Meru offers breathtaking views of its renowned neighbor while serving as an excellent hiking destination in its own right. The climb up Meru begins in wooded savannah terrain frequented by giraffes and buffaloes before ascending into forests adorned with vibrant red-hot pokers and draped in Spanish moss. The landscape transitions into open heath punctuated by towering lobelias, with klipspringers marking the hike’s progression. As the ascent continues, the alpine desert reveals everlasting flowers, culminating in a summit experience where Kilimanjaro stands resplendent in the sunrise. CANOEING THE MOMELLA LAKES Canoeing the Momella Lakes presents another enchanting activity within Arusha National Park. These seven shallow alkaline lakes, each displaying a unique shade of green or blue due to algae growth, offer sightings of diverse birdlife and animals such as waterbucks, giraffes, zebras, and dik-diks. Small Momella Lake offers the opportunity for a tranquil canoe safari amidst picturesque surroundings. ARUSHA WALKING SAFARI Arusha National Park also provides an ideal setting for a walking safari, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the park’s natural beauty. With a low predator population, walking safaris are permitted, offering close encounters with moss-covered trees, vibrant flora like red-hot pokers, and diverse wildlife including buffaloes, warthogs, giraffes, and an array of bird species. The walk often includes a visit to the Tululusia waterfalls before returning to the Momella gate. If you’re considering an Arusha safari adventure, explore our range of Mirable Safaris for a tailored experience. Your dream Tanzania safari awaits, and we’re here to help you plan every step of the journey! Request a tour Contact us. Our team is always here to help.