The Grand Northern Loop
Ten unhurried days exploring every wild corner of the Northern Circuit, from Tarangire to the far northern Mara riverbanks.
Based on 2 sharing private 4x4 expedition vehicle. Group-size and season adjust the final price.
Expedition Overview
The definitive overland journey across northern Tanzania. Spanning from Tarangire up through the caldera and right into the dramatic rocky corridors of the northern Mara River where the Great Migration braves crocodile waters.
Route Highlights
- Northern Serengeti Kogatende river crossing vantage points
- Both central predator valleys and remote northern boundary wilderness
- Tree-climbing lions and underground forest springs in Lake Manyara
- Ten nights in intimate tented retreats with personal camp stewards
The Trail & Stop Sequence
Arusha Base
Arusha1 nightTarangire Valley
Tarangire2 nightsNgorongoro Rim
Ngorongoro1 nightCentral Serengeti
Serengeti2 nightsNorthern Mara River
Serengeti3 nightsArusha Base
Tarangire Valley
Ngorongoro Rim
Central Serengeti
Northern Mara River
Day-by-Day Expedition Plan
Morning:Depart Arusha after sunrise coffee, heading into the southern wilderness areas of Tarangire where mass tourism rarely ventures.
Midday:Lunch in the deep bush beside Silale Swamps surrounded by oryx and herds of dwarf mongooses.
Evening:Sunset drive along the sand river watching herds of four hundred elephants dig for clean water beneath the dry sand.
Route Photography Gallery
Field perspectives from this specific itinerary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Practical advice for this specific route.
Price Breakdown
What is Included
- ✓Private 4x4 expedition vehicle with pop-up photography hatch throughout
- ✓Domestic scheduled bush flight Kogatende (Northern Serengeti) back to Arusha
- ✓All 9 nights in hand-picked luxury tented camps and rim lodges
- ✓All national park, conservation, and river crossing concession permits
- ✓All meals, filtered water, teas, and vehicle coffee service
- ✓Dedicated expert safari guide
- ✓Flying Doctors emergency medical evacuation cover
Not Included
- ✕International flights
- ✕Tanzania tourist visa
- ✕Guide and camp staff tips
- ✕Personal travel insurance
- ✕Hot air balloon flight over Mara (available as add-on)