Safari Overview
Escape to the tropical paradise of Zanzibar, where the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean meet powdery white sands and centuries of history blend seamlessly with vibrant Swahili culture. This curated 6-day holiday is designed to offer the perfect balance of adventure, cultural discovery, and pure relaxation.
From wandering the labyrinthine, spice-scented alleyways of historic Stone Town—a UNESCO World Heritage site—to snorkeling in the crystal-clear, protected reefs of Mnemba Atoll, this journey captures the very best of the “Spice Island.” Whether you are swimming with gentle sea turtles in natural lagoons, exploring ancient architectural wonders, or simply unwinding under the shade of palm trees on a sun-drenched beach, this itinerary promises an unforgettable island escape.
Day by Day Safari Itinerary
DAY 1: ARRIVAL IN TANZANIA
Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport, where you’ll be greeted by your professional safari guide. After a warm welcome and briefing about your upcoming adventure, you’ll transfer to Arusha. The drive offers a first glimpse of Tanzania’s stunning scenery, with views of Mount Meru in the distance. Spend the evening relaxing as you prepare for the start of your safari journey.
Meal Plan: Half Board
Accommodation
Kibo Palace Hotel
DAY 2: ARUSHA TO TARANGIRE NATIONAL PARK
After breakfast, drive to Tarangire National Park, famous for its vast landscapes dotted with ancient baobab trees and large elephant herds. Enjoy a full day of game drives through the park’s rolling plains and along the Tarangire River, where animals gather to drink. Watch for lions lounging in the shade, graceful giraffes feeding on acacias, and zebras grazing beside wildebeest. The park’s birdlife is remarkable, with colorful species like lilac-breasted rollers and yellow-collared lovebirds. Meal Plan: Full Board
Accommodation
Optn 2: Sangaiwe Tented Lodge
DAY 3: TARANGIRE TO MTO WA MBU VILLAGE
Start the morning with more game drives in Tarangire before exiting the park and heading to Mto wa Mbu, a lively cultural melting pot near Lake Manyara. Enjoy a traditional Tanzanian hot lunch prepared by local women, then explore the village. You can walk, bike, or ride in a tuk-tuk through banana plantations, rice fields, and bustling markets. Meet artisans, learn about local farming, and experience the community’s warm hospitality. Later, drive to Karatu for an evening at leisure.
Meal Plan: Full Board
Accommodation
Optn 2: Marera Valley Lodge
DAY 4: LAKE EYASI AND THE HADZABE TRIBE EXPERIENCE
After an early breakfast, drive to Lake Eyasi for a cultural encounter with the Hadzabe tribe, one of the last hunter-gatherer communities in East Africa. Join them on a traditional hunt, watch them make fire using sticks, and learn how they live in harmony with nature. You’ll also visit the Datoga tribe, skilled metalworkers who craft jewelry and tools. This day offers a rare insight into Tanzania’s indigenous cultures. Return to Karatu for dinner and overnight. Meal Plan: Full Board
Accommodation
Optn 2: Marera Valley Lodge
DAY 5: KARATU TO CENTRAL SERENGETI VIA NGORONGORO
Depart after breakfast and drive through the scenic Ngorongoro Conservation Area, stopping at a Maasai village to learn about their customs and nomadic lifestyle. Continue your journey into Serengeti National Park, where the vast savannahs stretch endlessly before you. As you enter the park, enjoy your first game drive and begin spotting wildlife including lions, elephants, giraffes, and herds of wildebeest. Arrive at your lodge or camp in the heart of the park in time for sunset and dinner. Meal Plan: Full Board
Accommodation
Optn 2: Enkirari Wilderness Camp
DAY 6: CENTRAL SERENGETI TO NORTHERN SERENGETI (KOGATENDE)
After breakfast, begin the drive north through the Serengeti’s diverse landscapes. Along the way, enjoy game drives across open plains and river valleys rich with wildlife. The northern region around Kogatende is known for the Mara River, where the Great Migration crosses between Tanzania and Kenya. Keep your eyes open for crocodiles basking in the sun and herds gathering near the riverbanks. Arrive in the north by evening for relaxation and dinner.
Meal Plan: Full Board
Accommodation
Optn 2: Mara Katikati Tented Camp
DAY 7: THE GREAT WILDEBEEST MIGRATION – NORTHERN SERENGETI
Spend the day following the movement of the Great Migration in the northern Serengeti. This is one of nature’s most breathtaking events, as thousands of wildebeest and zebras cross the Mara River while predators wait nearby. Your guide will take you to the best viewing points to witness the action and drama of the crossings. Alongside the migration, you may also spot elephants, hippos, lions, and leopards in this wildlife-rich area. Meal Plan: Full Board
Accommodation
Mara Katikati Tented Camp
DAY 8: NORTHERN SERENGETI AND OPTIONAL BALLOON SAFARI
Begin your day before sunrise with an optional hot air balloon safari over the northern plains. Soar silently above the herds as the golden light of dawn spreads across the landscape, followed by a champagne breakfast in the bush. Continue your day with more game drives, tracking the migration and exploring the northern kopjes and woodland areas where predators often rest.
Meal Plan: Full Board
Accommodation
Mara Katikati Tented Camp
DAY 9: NORTHERN SERENGETI TO CENTRAL SERENGETI
After breakfast, begin your return journey south with game drives along the way. The route back to Central Serengeti offers another chance to encounter big cats, elephants, and hyenas as they roam the grasslands. Stop for a picnic lunch in the wild before continuing toward the Seronera area, where you can enjoy an afternoon game drive before settling in for the night.
Meal Plan: Full Board
Accommodation
Enkirari Wilderness Camp
DAY 10: NGORONGORO CRATER GAME DRIVES – DRIVE TO KARATU
After an early breakfast, leave Serengeti behind and travel toward the Ngorongoro Crater. Descend 600 meters to the crater floor for a full day of wildlife viewing in one of the most remarkable natural sanctuaries in the world. The crater is home to an incredible density of wildlife, including elephants, buffaloes, zebras, flamingos, hippos, and the rare black rhino. Enjoy a picnic lunch near the hippo pool before ascending the crater walls and driving to Karatu for an evening of relaxation. Meal Plan: Full Board
Accommodation
Marera Valley Lodge
DAY 11: LAKE MANYARA NATIONAL PARK AND FLY TO ZANZIBAR
After breakfast, drive to Lake Manyara National Park for a half-day game drive. The park is known for its lush groundwater forests, tree-climbing lions, and flocks of flamingos shimmering on the lake’s surface. After your safari, drive to Arusha Airport for your flight to Zanzibar. Upon arrival, meet your driver and transfer to your beach resort for a relaxing evening on the island’s pristine shores. Meal Plan: Full Board
Accommodation
Paradise Beach Resort
DAY 12-13: ZANZIBAR BEACH HOLIDAY
Wake up to the soothing sound of ocean waves. Spend the day relaxing on the beach, swimming in turquoise waters, or joining optional activities such as snorkeling, diving, or sailing on a traditional dhow. The day is yours to enjoy the island’s tropical beauty and laid-back atmosphere.
Meal Plan: Half Board
Accommodation
Paradise Beach Resort
DAY 14: STONE TOWN AND SPICE TOUR
After breakfast, head out for a guided tour of Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its winding alleys, bustling bazaars, and rich history. Visit the Old Slave Market, the House of Wonders, and the Old Fort. Later, drive to one of Zanzibar’s spice farms where you’ll learn about the island’s famous spices such as cloves, cinnamon, and cardamom. Taste tropical fruits and enjoy the fragrant atmosphere before returning to your resort for the evening.
Meal Plan: Half Board
Accommodation
Paradise Beach Resort
DAY 15: DEPARTURE
Enjoy your final morning on the island with a leisurely breakfast and perhaps one last walk along the beach. Later, transfer to Zanzibar Airport for your flight home, carrying unforgettable memories of Tanzania’s wildlife, culture, and paradise coast.
