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12 Days Premium Tier

12 Days Tanzania Safari & Zanzibar Beach Holiday Tour

12 Days Tanzania Safari & Zanzibar Beach Holiday Tour

Experience the perfect blend of wildlife adventure and tropical relaxation on this unforgettable 12-day Tanzania Safari and Zanzibar Beach Holiday. Your journey begins in Tanzania’s renowned Northern Safari Circuit, where you will explore some of Africa’s most iconic wildlife destinations, including Tarangire National Park, Lake Manyara National Park, the world-famous Serengeti National Park, and the breathtaking Ngorongoro Crater. Along the way, enjoy thrilling game drives through diverse landscapes, encounter the Big Five, witness abundant birdlife, and immerse yourself in the remarkable beauty of Tanzania’s wilderness.
After your safari adventure, fly to the exotic island of Zanzibar, where pristine white-sand beaches, turquoise waters, and rich Swahili culture await. Spend your days relaxing by the Indian Ocean, exploring historic Stone Town, enjoying optional marine activities, or simply unwinding in a tropical paradise. Combining spectacular wildlife experiences with idyllic beach relaxation, this itinerary offers the ultimate Tanzanian holiday, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

map Expedition Route

Expedition Route Map
Route: Arusha → Tarangire National Park → Lake Manyara National Park → Serengeti National Park - Central → Ngorongoro Crater → Zanzibar Island

Daily Expedition Log

Day 1

Arrival – Kilimanjaro International Airport

Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by our professional representative and transferred to your hotel in Arusha, the gateway to Tanzania’s iconic safari circuit.
Enjoy a scenic drive through the foothills of Mount Meru and the lush landscapes surrounding Arusha, offering your first glimpse of Tanzania’s natural beauty. Upon arrival at your hotel, check in and take time to relax after your international journey.
Depending on your arrival time, you may unwind at the lodge or explore Arusha town, a vibrant hub known for its markets, cultural charm, and safari atmosphere. In the evening, enjoy dinner at leisure as you prepare for the adventure ahead.

restaurant

Meals

Bed and Breajfast

hotel

Lodging

Arusha Coffee Lodge

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Transport

Private Tourist Vehicle

Day 2

Tarangire National Park – Land of Giants

After breakfast, depart for Tarangire National Park, a beautiful park known for its ancient baobab trees and large elephant populations. The drive itself offers scenic views of rural Tanzania and Maasai villages along the way. Upon arrival, begin your game drive across the park’s varied landscapes where wildlife gathers around the Tarangire River. During the safari you may encounter large elephant herds, giraffes, zebras, wildebeests, lions, and a variety of antelope species. The park is also a paradise for bird lovers, hosting hundreds of bird species throughout the year. As the day unfolds, the quiet atmosphere and dramatic scenery make Tarangire a wonderful introduction to Tanzania’s wildlife.

restaurant

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

hotel

Lodging

Tarangire Elewana Camp

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Transport

4x4 Safari Jeep

Day 3

Lake Manyara National Park – Jewel of the Rift Valley

After breakfast, journey approximately 70 km to Lake Manyara National Park, one of Tanzania’s most scenic and diverse wildlife destinations.
Spend the day (09:00 AM to 05:00 PM) exploring lush groundwater forests, open floodplains, and the shimmering alkaline lake famous for its pink flamingos. This compact park is known for its incredible biodiversity and dramatic landscapes.
Look out for Lake Manyara’s famous tree-climbing lions, elephants moving through the forest, large troops of baboons, and occasional sightings of leopards and antelopes. The contrast between dense forest and open lake creates a uniquely beautiful safari experience. Return to your lodge in the late afternoon for relaxation and dinner.

restaurant

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

hotel

Lodging

Lake Manyara Serena Lodge

directions_car

Transport

4x4 Safari Jeep

Day 4

Journey to Serengeti National Park

After breakfast, continue your safari toward the legendary Serengeti National Park. The journey passes through the spectacular highlands of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, offering breathtaking views across valleys and endless plains. As you enter the Serengeti ecosystem, the scenery opens dramatically into vast golden savannahs stretching to the horizon. Enjoy a game drive en route to your lodge where wildlife sightings often begin immediately zebras grazing, giraffes wandering the plains, or predators quietly observing their surroundings. By afternoon, you will truly feel the magic of the Serengeti, one of Africa’s most celebrated wildlife destinations.

restaurant

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

hotel

Lodging

Neptune Serengeti Safari Camp

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Transport

4x4 Safari Jeep

Day 5

Full Day in Serengeti National Park

Today is dedicated to exploring the incredible wildlife of Serengeti National Park. Morning and afternoon game drives reveal the rhythm of life on the savannah. Depending on the season, you may witness the famous Great Migration with vast herds of wildebeest and zebras moving across the plains. Predators such as lions, cheetahs, and leopards are often spotted resting, hunting, or watching nearby prey. Elephants roam through acacia woodlands while hyenas patrol the grasslands. Between game drives, relax at your lodge and absorb the peaceful atmosphere of the African wilderness.

restaurant

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

hotel

Lodging

Neptune Serengeti Safari Camp

directions_car

Transport

4x4 Safari Jeep

Day 6

Serengeti to Ngorongoro National Park

Enjoy a final morning game drive in the Serengeti as wildlife becomes active during the cooler hours of the day.
Afterward, begin your journey toward the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, one of Africa's most remarkable natural wonders. As you ascend into the volcanic highlands, enjoy stunning views and changing landscapes.
Arrive at the rim of the Ngorongoro Crater in the afternoon. Standing over 2,300 meters above sea level, the crater rim offers breathtaking panoramic views of the world's largest intact volcanic caldera. Spend the evening relaxing at your lodge while enjoying spectacular views over the crater and surrounding highlands. Overnight at Ngorongoro Crater Rim

restaurant

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

hotel

Lodging

Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge

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Transport

4x4 Safari Jeep

Day 7

Ngorongoro Conservation Area & Crater Safari

After breakfast, depart towards the breathtaking Ngorongoro Conservation Area. The highlight of the day is descending into the magnificent Ngorongoro Crater, a vast volcanic caldera often referred to as one of the most beautiful wildlife havens in the world. Inside the crater you may encounter lions, elephants, buffalo, zebras, flamingos, and a variety of other species living within this natural sanctuary. The landscapes here are extraordinary, ranging from open grasslands and forests to shimmering soda lakes. This unique ecosystem offers one of the best opportunities in Africa to see a wide concentration of wildlife in a single day.

restaurant

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

hotel

Lodging

Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge

directions_car

Transport

4x4 Safari Jeep

Day 8

Flight to Zanzibar – From Wilderness to Ocean Paradise

After breakfast, transfer to the airstrip for your included flight to Zanzibar, the exotic island paradise of the Indian Ocean. As you leave behind the vast savannahs of mainland Tanzania, you will arrive on an island defined by turquoise waters, white sandy beaches, and swaying palm trees. Upon landing at Abeid Amani Karume International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by your professional driver-guide and begin your journey into the cultural heart of Zanzibar.
You will proceed to Stone Town for a guided tour of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its rich blend of Arab, Persian, Indian, and European influences. Walk through its narrow winding streets as you explore iconic landmarks such as the House of Wonders, the Old Fort, and the historic Slave Market, while also experiencing vibrant local markets and admiring the island’s famous carved wooden doors. After this cultural introduction, you will transfer to your beach resort for check-in, where the rest of the day is at leisure to relax, unwind, and enjoy the tranquil beauty of Zanzibar’s coastline.

restaurant

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

hotel

Lodging

Riu Resort Zanzibar

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Transport

Flight + Private Tourist Vehicle

Day 9

Nungwi Beach Adventure, Kendwa Activities & Sunset Dhow Cruise

After breakfast, depart for the northern coast of Zanzibar to explore the beautiful beach destinations of Nungwi and Kendwa, famous for their powdery white sands and crystal-clear turquoise waters. Your day begins with a unique opportunity to swim with sea turtles in a natural lagoon sanctuary in Nungwi, where these gentle marine creatures thrive in clear shallow waters. Following this memorable encounter, continue to Kendwa Beach for an exhilarating jet ski experience, allowing you to glide across the calm Indian Ocean waters while enjoying spectacular coastal views. The adventure continues with a scenic horse riding experience along the beach, offering a peaceful and unforgettable way to enjoy the beauty of Zanzibar’s coastline. Later, you will enjoy a relaxing lunch at Kendwa Rocks Restaurant, a well-known beachfront restaurant with stunning ocean views and a vibrant island atmosphere. In the late afternoon, embark on a traditional sunset dhow cruise where you will sail along the coast aboard a classic wooden dhow, witnessing one of Zanzibar’s most breathtaking sunsets over the Indian Ocean. After this magical experience, transfer to your resort on the east coast for overnight stay.

restaurant

Meals

All Inclusive

hotel

Lodging

Riu Resort Zanzibar

directions_car

Transport

Private Tourist Vehicle

Day 10

Quad Bike Adventure in Pwani Mchangani

Following breakfast at the resort, depart for the coastal village of Pwani Mchangani for an exciting quad bike adventure that takes you beyond the typical tourist routes and into the authentic landscapes of Zanzibar. After a short briefing and safety orientation, you will ride your quad bike along sandy trails that pass through coconut plantations, small villages, and scenic coastal paths, offering a unique opportunity to experience the island’s rural beauty and everyday life. Along the way, you may encounter friendly local communities, traditional homes, and vibrant natural surroundings that showcase the island’s cultural and environmental richness. The ride combines adrenaline and exploration, making it one of the most exciting ways to discover Zanzibar’s countryside. After the adventure, return to your resort where the remainder of the day is at leisure to relax by the pool, enjoy the beach, or simply soak in the peaceful island atmosphere.

restaurant

Meals

All Inclusive

hotel

Lodging

Riu Resort Zanzibar

directions_car

Transport

Private Tourist Vehicle

Day 11

Mnemba Island Snorkelling & Dolphin Experience

After breakfast, set out for an unforgettable marine adventure to the famous Mnemba Island, one of Zanzibar’s most spectacular marine conservation areas known for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral reefs. Your excursion begins with a boat ride into the Indian Ocean where you will search for playful dolphins often seen swimming gracefully through the warm tropical waters. Following the dolphin spotting experience, you will enjoy guided snorkeling around the coral reefs surrounding Mnemba Island, where you can discover an underwater world filled with colorful tropical fish, coral formations, and diverse marine life. This area is widely regarded as one of the best snorkeling spots in Zanzibar due to its exceptional visibility and biodiversity. During the excursion, you will also enjoy a freshly prepared seafood lunch featuring delicious local flavors served in a relaxing seaside setting. After this remarkable marine experience, you will transfer back to Tembo Kiwengwa Resort where you can spend your final evening enjoying the peaceful ocean breeze and reflecting on the unforgettable adventures of your Zanzibar journey.

restaurant

Meals

All Inclusive

hotel

Lodging

Riu Resort Zanzibar

directions_car

Transport

Private Tourist Vehicle

Day 12

Departure from Zanzibar

After breakfast, enjoy your final relaxed moments on the island, taking in the last views of Zanzibar’s turquoise waters, swaying palms, and warm tropical breeze before checking out of your resort.
Depending on your flight schedule, you may have some time to unwind on the beach or make last-minute memories at the resort before your transfer to Abeid Amani Karume International Airport for your onward international flight.
As your journey comes to a close, you depart not just with photographs, but with unforgettable experiences of Tanzania’s untamed wildlife, vast golden savannahs, dramatic landscapes, rich cultural encounters, and the serene beauty of Zanzibar’s coastline—memories that will stay with you long after you leave Africa.

restaurant

Meals

Breakfast

directions_car

Transport

Private Tourist Vehicle

Inclusions & Essentials

check_circle What's Included

  • done All airport transfers and ground transportation throughout the itinerary.
  • done Domestic flight from mainland Tanzania to Zanzibar.
  • done 1 night accommodation in Arusha on Bed & Breakfast basis.
  • done 6 nights safari accommodation in carefully selected lodges/tented camps.
  • done 4 nights beach resort accommodation in Zanzibar on All Inclusive basis
  • done All meals during safari days (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • done Professional English-speaking safari driver-guide.
  • done Professional Zanzibar excursion guides for all island activities
  • done All park entry fees as per the itinerary.
  • done Ngorongoro Crater service fees and crater descent permits.
  • done 4x4 safari Land Cruiser with pop-up roof top.
  • done Unlimited game drives as per itinerary .
  • done Picnic lunches during full-day safari activities.
  • done Bottled drinking water during safari game drives and transfers.
  • done Stone Town guided tour with professional guide
  • done Activities in Zanzibar as per the itinerary.
  • done All applicable government taxes and VAT

cancel Not Included

  • close International flights to and from Tanzania.
  • close Tanzania visa fees.
  • close Travel insurance (highly recommended).
  • close Optional activities not mentioned in the itinerary.
  • close Hot air balloon safari in Serengeti (available at extra cost).
  • close Tips and gratuities for guides, drivers, hotel staff, and boat crews.
  • close Personal expenses such as laundry, telephone calls, souvenirs, and room service.
  • close Early check-in or late check-out at hotels and lodges.
  • close Any increase in park fees, government taxes, or conservation charges after booking confirmation.
  • close Any item or service not specifically mentioned in the inclusions.

FAQs / Essential Information

Everything you need to know before you go.

What are the main highlights of a wildlife safari in Northern Tanzania?
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Key highlights include exploring Tarangire National Park (famous for elephants and baobab trees), witnessing the abundant wildlife of the legendary Serengeti savannahs, and descending into the Ngorongoro Crater, a vast caldera home to a dense concentration of wildlife.

What is the ideal combination trip in Tanzania?
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A very popular combination is a "Wildlife & Beach" adventure, which pairs an exhilarating safari through iconic mainland parks (like Serengeti and Ngorongoro) with a relaxing tropical beach holiday on the island of Zanzibar.

What kind of wildlife can I expect to see on safari?
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While sightings can never be guaranteed, travelers often see lions, elephants, buffalo, giraffes, zebras, wildebeests, and flamingos. The text also mentions baboons in Lake Manyara and the chance to spot leopards and cheetahs, particularly in the Serengeti.

What is the Great Migration, and where can I see it?
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The Great Migration involves vast herds of wildebeest and zebras moving across the plains. In Tanzania, it can be witnessed seasonally within Serengeti National Park.

Are internal transfers easy between safari parks and Zanzibar?
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Yes, trips often include efficient transfers. For example, after the safari portion, travelers can take a direct flight (e.g., from an airstrip near the parks) over to Zanzibar.

What kind of activities can I do in Zanzibar?
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Zanzibar offers a wide range of activities. Besides relaxing on white-sand beaches, options include exploring historic Stone Town, discovering spice plantations, snorkeling and diving in coral-rich waters, taking boat excursions to nearby islands, and enjoying spa treatments.

Are meals included on a Tanzanian safari package?
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For the safari portion of trips, full board meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) are generally included. In Zanzibar, the inclusion varies, with some packages offering breakfast only.

Is there an airport closer to the safari parks, or do I have to fly into Zanzibar?
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For safari trips in Northern Tanzania, travelers typically fly into Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), which is known as the gateway to the iconic safari circuit.

What is the common form of transportation for game drives?
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The common vehicle is a 4x4 Land Cruiser (or similar) with a pop-up roof, specifically designed for excellent wildlife viewing and photography during game drives.

Are international flights usually included in Tanzania tour packages?
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No, international flights are almost always an exclusion from package prices, meaning you must book them separately from your local tour. Internal flights (like between the safari parks and Zanzibar) are more likely to be included.

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