Zanzibar Fly-in Safari | Serengeti Wildlife Safaris

5-Day fly-in Tanzania Safari from zanzibar

5 Days 4 Nights

Overview

This Zanzibar fly-in safari 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 Zanzibar fly-in safari with us

First, every Zanzibar fly-in safari 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 Tanzania National Parks (TANAPA) website. For more ideas, see our other Serengeti National Park tours.

First, you fly from Zanzibar to Arusha. Then a scenic drive takes you to Tarangire National Park, famous for its giant baobab trees and large elephant herds. There you enjoy a full-day game drive, followed by a cultural stay at Suricata Boma Lodge.

Next, you travel to the iconic Serengeti National Park through the breathtaking Ngorongoro Conservation Area. You explore plains known for the Great Migration and the Big Five, with exciting game drives and bush picnics. Meanwhile, your nights at Moyo Tented Camp offer an authentic safari experience.

On day four, an optional hot air balloon safari gives you a stunning sunrise view over the Serengeti. After that, you head out on a final morning game drive. Then you drive to the Ngorongoro Highlands and relax in the peaceful town of Karatu.

On the last day, you descend into the Ngorongoro Crater, one of the world’s richest wildlife sanctuaries, for an unforgettable game drive. Afterwards, you transfer back to Arusha and fly to the idyllic island of Zanzibar to end your Zanzibar fly-in safari.

Itinerary

After an early breakfast, your driver picks you up from your accommodation and drops you at the airport for your flight to Arusha. On arrival, your safari guide meets you. Then you head southwest toward Tarangire National Park, a scenic drive of about 1 to 2 hours through the rolling hills and farmland of northern Tanzania.

At the park gate, you begin your first full-day game drive in one of Tanzania’s most underrated gems. Tarangire is famous for its towering baobab trees, sweeping savannahs and the largest concentration of elephants in northern Tanzania. During the dry season, the Tarangire River draws wildlife from far and wide. For example, you may see large herds of zebras, wildebeests, buffalo and giraffes, as well as lions and leopards.

At midday, you stop at a designated picnic site for lunch in the bush. In the afternoon, you continue through the park’s varied habitats and look out for cheetahs and even tree-climbing pythons. Finally, as the sun sinks behind the baobabs, you leave the park and head to your charming lodge nearby.

Overnight at suricata Boma Lodge
Meals: picnic lunch ,Dinner

After an early breakfast, you leave the lodge in Mto wa Mbu and set off for the world-famous Serengeti National Park. On the way, you pass through the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Here the road winds along the rim of the magnificent Ngorongoro Crater, with sweeping views of this ancient volcanic caldera.

Then you descend into the vast open plains of the Serengeti. Its name means “endless plains” in the Maasai language. This iconic park is one of the most celebrated wildlife sanctuaries on Earth. It is famous for the Great Migration and is also home to the Big Five – lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo and rhino.

When you reach the Serengeti gate, you enjoy a picnic lunch in the bush. After that, your first game drive in the park begins. Keep your camera ready, because the golden grasslands hold herds of wildebeest and zebras, graceful giraffes, basking hippos and prowling predators.

By late afternoon, you reach your safari-style camp in the heart of the Serengeti. So you have time to freshen up before a delicious dinner under the stars.

Overnight at Moyo Tented Camp, Serengeti
Meals: Breakfast, Picnic Lunch, Dinner

After an early breakfast at Moyo Tented Camp, you set off on a full morning game drive through the Serengeti. The open plains stretch as far as the eye can see. They also hold an extraordinary concentration of wildlife and set the stage for the Great Migration.

During the morning, you track herds of wildebeest and zebras and look for predators such as lions and cheetahs. You also watch elephants, giraffes and plenty of birdlife in their natural habitat. At midday, you stop for a picnic lunch at a scenic spot in the park.

In the afternoon, you continue your game drive on the way back to Moyo Tented Camp. Then you have time to relax before a delicious dinner under the stars.

Overnight: Moyo Tented Camp, Serengeti
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Picnic Lunch, Dinner

Wake at dawn and, if you wish, join an optional hot air balloon safari over the Serengeti (advance booking required, additional cost). As the sun rises, you float above the golden plains. Below, long shadows stretch over herds of wildebeest and antelope, and perhaps a pride of lions starting its day.

After the balloon flight, or a more relaxed morning, you enjoy a hearty breakfast at camp. Then you head out on a final morning game drive through the Serengeti. It is another chance to spot animals you may have missed, since the landscape keeps revealing new surprises.

In the afternoon, you drive southeast toward the Ngorongoro Highlands, through the rich, fertile lands of the conservation area. Along the way, dry grasslands give way to green hills, Maasai villages and terraced farmland.

By early evening, you arrive in the charming town of Karatu. Here the cool highland air and calm setting make a perfect contrast to the wild Serengeti. Finally, settle into your lodge, enjoy a freshly prepared dinner and relax after an exciting day.

Overnight at Karatu Simba Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Picnic Lunch, Dinner

Rise early and set out for the Ngorongoro Crater, often called the "Eighth Wonder of the World." This vast, unbroken caldera is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It also holds a remarkable concentration of wildlife, including lions, elephants, hyenas, hippos, flamingos and even the rare black rhino.

First, you descend 600 meters into the crater, a natural amphitheater where the drama of the African savannah plays out in front of you. Then you enjoy a picnic lunch at a scenic spot near a hippo pool. Afterwards, you continue your game drive until mid-afternoon.

After your crater visit, you transfer back to Arusha, with time to freshen up if needed. Then you head to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) for your flight to Zanzibar or your flight home. When you land on the island, we welcome you and transfer you straight to your accommodation.

Included & Excluded

  • All accommodations
  • Taxes / VAT
  • All ground transport
  • Domestic flights
  • Park entrance fees
  • Professional English-speaking guide
  • Government-imposed taxes & park fee increases
  • All meals during safari
  • High-quality 4x4 safari jeep
  • Airport pickup
  • Air-conditioned transfers
  • Bottled water and drinks during safari
  • Airport drop off
  • International flights
  • Additional accommodation before/after the tour
  • Personal items (souvenirs, travel insurance, visa fees, etc.)
  • Optional activities (hot air balloon safari, spa, etc.)
  • Tips (Recommended: $10 per person/day)

Map

Frequent Asked Question

Is the hot air balloon safari included?

No, the hot air balloon safari over the Serengeti is an optional activity at an additional cost. Also, places are limited, so you need to book it in advance.

Do I need a visa for Tanzania?

Yes, most travelers need a visa to enter Tanzania. You can get a visa on arrival at the airport. Alternatively, you can apply online in advance through Tanzania’s e-visa portal.

What should I pack for the safari?

Pack light, breathable clothing in neutral colors, a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses. Also bring sunscreen, insect repellent, binoculars and a camera. Early mornings can be chilly, so add a warm layer. Finally, don’t forget personal medications and travel documents.

Are game drives shared or private?

Unless we arrange otherwise, you usually share game drives with a small group in a custom safari vehicle. However, we can arrange a private safari for an additional cost.

6% Off
From $2210 $2070
/ Adult
5-Day fly-in Tanzania Safari from zanzibar