Serengeti and Zanzibar | Safari & Beach Escape in Tanzania - Serengeti Wildlife Safaris

lifetime 15-day adventure with Serengeti Wildlife Safaris

15 Days 14 Nights

Overview

This Serengeti and Zanzibar is run by Serengeti Wildlife Safaris, a locally based Tanzanian operator. You travel with an experienced local guide, and we plan every detail with you.

Why book this Serengeti and Zanzibar with us

First, every Serengeti and Zanzibar we run is tailor-made, so we can adjust the dates, accommodation and pace. In addition, our local team supports you from arrival to departure. Before you travel, you can also read about the area on the official Stone Town of Zanzibar (UNESCO World Heritage) website. For more ideas, see our other Serengeti National Park tours.

Venture into a once-in-a-lifetime 15-day adventure through Tanzania’s stunning landscapes and wildlife-rich parks with Serengeti Wildlife Safaris. Your journey begins in the vibrant city of Arusha. First, you explore the remarkable Arusha National Park. Then you relax at Ngarasero Mountain Lodge before heading to the famous Tarangire National Park.

Next, you experience the awe-inspiring Serengeti across its western, southern and central plains. Here you can watch incredible wildlife, including the Big Five. Afterwards, marvel at the Ngorongoro Crater, a natural wonder teeming with animals.

After your safari, unwind in Zanzibar with spice farms, pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters. You also swim with dolphins at Kizimkazi, relax on Nakupenda Island and dive into the depths of Mnemba. So this epic journey with Serengeti Wildlife Safaris combines adventure, relaxation and unforgettable moments in nature’s paradise.

Itinerary

When you arrive at Kilimanjaro Airport or Arusha Airport, your guide from Serengeti Wildlife Safaris welcomes you warmly. Then your guide transfers you to the Greenside Hotel in Arusha, a comfortable base for your journey into the heart of Tanzania.

After check-in, take some time to relax and adjust to the time zone. Depending on your arrival time, you can stroll around the hotel’s lush grounds. You can also enjoy a meal at the hotel restaurant, which serves local and international cuisine. This peaceful start gives you time to refresh, so you feel ready for Tanzania’s extraordinary wildlife.

Today, you explore Arusha City, Tanzania’s safari capital, with an expert guide. First, enjoy a hearty breakfast at the hotel. Then your day begins with a tour of Arusha’s vibrant markets, where you can shop for handicrafts, jewelry and traditional Tanzanian fabrics.

Next, visit the Arusha National Natural History Museum, housed in a former colonial-era building. It offers fascinating insights into the region’s geological history and wildlife. In the afternoon, you visit a local coffee farm to learn about Tanzania's coffee culture. You also sample some of the freshest brews you'll ever taste. Finally, return to your hotel in the evening for a relaxing dinner before your safari begins.

On Day 3, you set off for Arusha National Park, just a short distance from the city. The park is famous for its stunning landscapes, such as volcanic craters, lush rainforests and tranquil lakes. As you enter, look out for giraffes, buffaloes, zebras and baboons.

The park’s diverse ecosystems also offer excellent birdwatching, with over 400 species recorded. A highlight is the beautiful Momella Lakes, home to large flocks of flamingos. You can also enjoy a relaxing canoe ride on the lakes and get close to the birds and other wildlife. After your day in the park, you return to the Greenside Hotel for dinner and a restful night.

Accommodation: Greenside Hotel

Today is dedicated to relaxation and exploration in the tranquil surroundings of Arusha. Spend the morning at leisure at the Greenside Hotel. For example, you can visit the hotel’s lush garden or relax by the pool.

In the afternoon, take a short drive to Ngarasero Mountain Lodge, a peaceful retreat at the base of Mount Meru. Here, you enjoy a relaxing canoe trip on Lake Ngarasero, surrounded by mountain views and lush vegetation. You can also join a guided nature walk or simply soak up the calm atmosphere. Later, return to your hotel in Arusha for a quiet evening and a delicious dinner.

On Day 5, you set off for Tarangire National Park, known for its dramatic landscapes and large elephant herds. After breakfast, you drive through the picturesque Tanzanian countryside to the park. Then you start a thrilling game drive.

The park is home to lions, giraffes and zebras, as well as its iconic baobab trees. The Tarangire River draws wildlife, especially during the dry season, when elephant herds gather along its banks. Meanwhile, your game drive crosses different habitats, so you have many chances to spot a variety of species.

After your safari, you head to Mawe Mawe Lodge in the Mto wa Mbu area. Here you enjoy comfortable rooms and stunning views of the surrounding landscapes. The lodge’s calm setting is also perfect for unwinding after a day on safari.

Today, your exploration of the world-famous Serengeti National Park begins. After breakfast, you travel to the western Serengeti. There you check into your tented camp, Moyo Tented Camp or Heritage Serengeti.

The Serengeti is famous for its vast plains and rich wildlife. The western region is also quite secluded, so it offers a more exclusive safari experience. In the afternoon, you set out on your first Serengeti game drive. Look out for the Big Five: lions, leopards, elephants, buffalo and rhinos.

The park’s varied landscapes, from savannah to woodland, provide excellent game viewing. Finally, return to your tented camp in the evening to relax, enjoy a delicious meal and reflect on the day.

On Day 7, you continue exploring as you head to the southern Serengeti. This region is famous for its seasonal wildebeest migration, a spectacle that draws wildlife lovers from around the globe.

Although the migration varies, the south offers plenty of chances to see large herds of wildebeest, zebras and gazelles. Predators such as lions and cheetahs often follow close behind. You spend the whole day on game drives in this rich and diverse ecosystem. After an exciting day, you return to your tented camp for a relaxing evening under the Serengeti stars.

Today, you explore the central Serengeti, known for its high concentration of wildlife. This area is famous for its lion prides, so you may witness dramatic predator-prey action.

First, spend the morning on a game drive, spotting lions, cheetahs and other animals on the plains. In the afternoon, you drive to the Ngorongoro Crater for an overnight stay at the Ngorongoro Farmhouse. The crater is one of the world’s most iconic wildlife destinations. Its unique ecosystem also provides a haven for an incredible variety of animals. Later, enjoy dinner at the lodge and relax before tomorrow’s crater adventure.

Today, you descend into the Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its exceptional concentration of wildlife. The crater is home to the famous “Big Five”. It also shelters other animals, such as hippos, flamingos and cheetahs. The lush greenery and unique geography of the crater floor make it an extraordinary place for game viewing.

After a morning of exploring, you drive back to Arusha in the afternoon. Then you spend the night at the Greenside Hotel. It is an ideal place to relax and reflect on your incredible safari in the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater.

On Day 10, you fly from Arusha to Zanzibar. Then you check into Nungwi Dream by Mantis in the scenic Nungwi area. Zanzibar is famous for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters and rich cultural history.

After arriving, you have time to relax on the beach and enjoy the ocean breeze after your wildlife adventures. In the afternoon, you can take a leisurely walk through Nungwi village to explore local markets. Alternatively, simply enjoy the calm setting of the resort. Finally, the evening brings a delightful seafood dinner on the beach, so you can savor fresh local dishes as the sun sets.

Today, you take a fascinating tour of one of Zanzibar’s spice farms. Known as the “Spice Island,” Zanzibar grows many aromatic spices, such as cloves, cinnamon, nutmeg and cardamom. During the tour, you walk through lush plantations and learn how farmers grow and use these spices. You also taste fresh spices and chat with local farmers along the way.

After the tour, you return to your resort for lunch and spend the afternoon at leisure. For example, you can relax by the pool, explore more of the island or visit nearby beaches. Later, enjoy a peaceful evening at the resort and take in the beauty of Zanzibar.

Day 12 combines relaxation and adventure with a boat trip to Nakupenda Island, one of Zanzibar’s most pristine and secluded islands. Nakupenda is known for its white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters. So it offers a peaceful escape for swimming, snorkeling and sunbathing.

The island is also a paradise for marine life. Here you can swim with tropical fish and explore the coral reefs. It is the perfect day to unwind and enjoy Zanzibar’s natural beauty, away from the hustle and bustle. After a relaxing day, return to your resort for a quiet evening and a refreshing dinner by the beach.

On Day 13, you visit Mnemba Island, a small but stunning island off Zanzibar’s coast. It is known for its exceptional diving and snorkeling, because vibrant coral reefs surround the island.

Whether you’re an experienced diver or a beginner, Mnemba offers dives to suit all levels. You can also swim with sea turtles, colorful fish and other marine life in the crystal-clear water. After a day of diving or snorkeling, return to Nungwi for a relaxing evening. Then unwind with a delicious dinner while you watch the sunset over the Indian Ocean.

Today’s adventure takes you to Zanzibar’s southern coast for a Kizimkazi Dolphin Swimming Tour. This is a unique chance to swim with wild dolphins in their natural habitat.

Experienced guides lead the tour and take you to the best spots, where dolphins often appear. If you’re lucky, you may even swim alongside these playful creatures, which makes for a magical experience. After your dolphin tour, you return to Nungwi Dream by Mantis for an afternoon of relaxation. Then spend the rest of the day on the beach or enjoying the resort’s amenities.

After breakfast, you head to Stone Town, Zanzibar’s historic heart, for a guided tour. Stone Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its winding alleys, intricate doors and rich history.

During the tour, you visit the spice market, the House of Wonders and the old slave market to learn about Zanzibar’s past. After exploring the town, you have some time to shop for souvenirs. Finally, you head to Zanzibar International Airport for your flight home. You leave Zanzibar with unforgettable memories of your Serengeti safari and island adventure.

Included & Excluded

  • Airport pick-up and drop-off (Kilimanjaro or Arusha)
  • All ground transportation and transfers during the trip
  • Accommodation for 14 nights in lodges, camps, and resorts
  • Domestic flight from Arusha to Zanzibar
  • Daily meals as per itinerary (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
  • All park entrance and conservation fees
  • Game drives in Arusha NP, Tarangire NP, Serengeti (West, South, Central), and Ngorongoro Crater
  • Guided tour of Arusha City, spice farm tour in Zanzibar
  • Visits to Nakupenda Island, Mnemba Island, and Kizimkazi dolphin swim
  • Canoeing activities (Lake Ngarasero and Momella Lakes)
  • Professional English-speaking guide/driver
  • Bottled drinking water during safaris
  • All government taxes and service charges
  • International flights to/from Tanzania
  • Visa fees and processing
  • Travel and medical insurance (mandatory)
  • Personal expenses (laundry, phone calls, minibar, etc.)
  • Alcoholic and soft drinks (unless specified)
  • Tips for guides, drivers, and hotel staff (recommended: $10–$20 per day)
  • Optional activities not mentioned in the itinerary (e.g., scuba certification)
  • Diving equipment rental (if not included by the diving center)

Map

Frequent Asked Question

What is the best time of year to go on this safari?

This safari runs year-round. However, the best wildlife viewing months in the Serengeti are usually June to October. For the wildebeest migration in the south, January to March is ideal.

Is the safari suitable for children and families?

Yes, the trip is family-friendly. However, some activities, such as diving, may have age or health restrictions. We can also tailor the trip for families with younger children.

Do I need a visa to enter Tanzania?

Yes. Most travelers need a tourist visa to enter Tanzania. You can get it online (e-visa) or when you arrive at the airport.

Is travel insurance required?

Yes, we strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance. It should cover medical emergencies, cancellations and activities such as diving.

4% Off
From $5912 $5700
/ Adult
lifetime 15-day adventure with Serengeti Wildlife Safaris