12-Day Tanzania Wildlife and Zanzibar Beach Holiday
This 12-day itinerary offers the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. Begin with thrilling wildlife safaris in Tanzania’s renowned national parks, followed by a serene retreat on Zanzibar’s pristine beaches. Witness the majesty of the African savannah before unwinding in the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean.
Day by Day Itinerary 12-Day Tanzania Wildlife and Zanzibar Beach Holiday
Day 1: Arrival in Arusha
Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport or Arusha Airport, where your guide will greet you and transfer you to your hotel in Arusha. Relax and prepare for the adventure ahead. If time allows, explore Arusha town or enjoy the tranquil surroundings of your lodge.
Day 2: Arusha to Tarangire National Park
Begin your safari with a drive to Tarangire National Park, known for its iconic baobab trees and large elephant herds. Enjoy a full day of game drives, spotting predators, giraffes, zebras, and diverse birdlife. Overnight at a lodge or camp within or near the park.
Day 3: Tarangire to Lake Manyara National Park
After breakfast, travel to Lake Manyara National Park, a scenic gem famous for its flamingos, tree-climbing lions, and lush habitats. Explore the park’s forests, grasslands, and soda lake on a game drive. Retire to your nearby lodge or camp for a restful evening.
Day 4: Lake Manyara to Central Serengeti
Depart for Serengeti National Park, driving through the stunning Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Arrive in Central Serengeti for your first game drive in this world-famous wildlife sanctuary. Check into your lodge or tented camp for dinner and an evening under the African stars.
Day 5: Full-Day Game Drive in Serengeti
Spend a full day exploring the Serengeti’s vast plains, home to the Great Migration (seasonal), lions, leopards, cheetahs, and other wildlife. Discover the park’s rich biodiversity as you visit prime viewing spots. Return to your camp for a relaxing evening.
Day 6: Serengeti to Ngorongoro Conservation Area
After a morning game drive in Serengeti, travel to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Stop at Olduvai Gorge to learn about early human history before arriving at your lodge on the crater rim. Enjoy stunning views and a quiet evening in this natural wonder.
Day 7: Ngorongoro Crater Exploration and Transfer to Arusha
Descend into the Ngorongoro Crater, often called the “Eighth Wonder of the World.” The crater floor is teeming with wildlife, including the Big Five. After a thrilling morning of game viewing, return to Arusha for your flight to Zanzibar the next day.
Day 8: Fly from Arusha to Zanzibar
Take a morning flight to Zanzibar, where you’ll be met and transferred to your beach resort. Spend the day relaxing by the turquoise waters or exploring the local area at your leisure.
Day 9: Relaxation and Beach Activities in Zanzibar
Enjoy a full day of leisure at your beach resort. Engage in activities such as snorkeling, diving, or simply soaking up the sun on Zanzibar’s white sandy beaches.
Day 10: Stone Town Tour and Spice Plantation Visit
Explore Zanzibar’s historic Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its winding alleys, bustling bazaars, and rich cultural history. Visit a spice plantation to learn about the island’s spice trade and sample exotic flavors. Return to your resort for a relaxing evening.
Day 11: Full Day at Leisure on Zanzibar Beaches
Spend another day at your own pace, enjoying the pristine beaches or indulging in optional activities like a sunset dhow cruise or a spa treatment.
Day 12: Departure from Zanzibar
Bid farewell to Zanzibar as you transfer to the airport for your departure flight. Reflect on the incredible wildlife encounters and tranquil beach moments from your Tanzanian adventure.
End of Safari
This 12-day journey offers the best of Tanzania’s wildlife and the idyllic beaches of Zanzibar, creating a perfect combination of adventure and relaxation.