Best of Tanzania & Zanzibar Safari - Serengeti Wildlife Safaris

Best of Tanzania & Zanzibar Safari

12 Days 11 Nights

Overview

This Best of Tanzania 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 Best of Tanzania Zanzibar with us

First, every Best of Tanzania 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.

Set off on the adventure of a lifetime and discover the very best of Tanzania. First, you explore the wildlife-rich savannah of legendary national parks. Then you finish on the turquoise water and white sandy beaches of Zanzibar. So this extraordinary journey promises unforgettable memories at every turn.

During thrilling game drives, you watch majestic lions, elephants and giraffes roam freely. Meanwhile, you stay in luxurious lodges that blend comfort with breathtaking views. Seamless fly-ins and fly-outs also give you the most time on safari.

Beyond the wildlife, you immerse yourself in vibrant local cultures and savour authentic Tanzanian cuisine. Finally, you relax on Zanzibar’s idyllic shores. This blend of adventure, relaxation and cultural discovery creates moments that will stay with you forever.

Itinerary

You land at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), and your Best of Tanzania Safari begins. First, your private guide welcomes you warmly. Then you transfer to Gran Meliá Arusha, a luxurious oasis with world-class comfort, modern elegance and sweeping views of Mount Meru.

After you settle in, enjoy a refreshing welcome drink and a full briefing about your safari. Later, spend the evening unwinding in the hotel’s peaceful surroundings. You also savour gourmet cuisine and prepare for the extraordinary wildlife experiences ahead.

Accommodation: Gran Melia Arusha
Meals: Dinner

After a generous breakfast at Gran Meliá Arusha, you take a scenic flight from Arusha Airport to the heart of the Serengeti. This way, you get more time on safari. When you land, your private guide greets you and takes you to Mwiba Lodge. This exclusive luxury retreat has breathtaking views of the Serengeti plains.

Next, you set off on your first game drive and enjoy a specially prepared lunch in the bush, surrounded by wildlife and the vast savannah. Then, in the late afternoon, you return to the lodge to unwind. Finally, savour a gourmet dinner and watch the dramatic sunset over the plains.

Accommodation: Mwiba Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

First, you have an early breakfast at Mwiba Lodge. Then you head out on a full-day game drive in the Southern Serengeti, known for its abundant wildlife and sweeping landscapes. If you visit during the calving season, you can see newborn wildebeest calves and dramatic predator-prey action.

During the day, you cross plains and riverine areas in search of lions, cheetahs, elephants, giraffes and wildebeest. At lunchtime, you enjoy a picnic in the bush, surrounded by the sights and sounds of the Serengeti. After that, your afternoon game drive continues until the sun sets over the savannah. Later, you return to Mwiba Lodge for an evening of luxury, fine dining and relaxation.

Accommodation: Mwiba Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Wake up early for a spectacular hot air balloon safari over the Serengeti. As you drift above the vast plains, you enjoy breathtaking aerial views of grazing wildebeest, zebras and lions. Meanwhile, the sunrise casts a golden light across the savannah. After landing, you toast your adventure with a champagne breakfast in the bush.

Then you spend the rest of the day on morning and afternoon game drives. You explore the park’s iconic landscapes and spot wildlife in its natural habitat. Finally, you spend the night at a luxury lodge with fine gourmet dining and peaceful savannah views.

Accommodation: Four Seasons
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

First, a private transfer takes you to the legendary Ngorongoro Conservation Area. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is famous for its breathtaking crater and exceptional density of wildlife. Here, a personalised game drive tracks the Big Five in a responsible, eco-conscious way that protects the plants and animals.

In the afternoon, you enjoy an exclusive Maasai cultural experience. During your village visit, you learn about their traditions, crafts and daily life, so you gain rare insight into this vibrant community. Finally, you end the day at a luxury lodge on the crater rim. There you unwind in refined comfort, savour gourmet cuisine and watch the sun turn the vast wilderness golden.

Accommodation: Melia Ngorongoro
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

After breakfast, a private transfer takes you to Lake Manyara National Park. The park is known for its acacia forests, flamingo-lined shores and tree-climbing lions. During a personalised game drive, you observe wildlife and diverse birdlife in an eco-conscious way that protects this delicate ecosystem.

At midday, you savour a gourmet picnic lunch amid the stunning scenery. Then you continue exploring the park’s breathtaking landscapes and abundant wildlife in the afternoon. Later, you end the day at a luxury lodge. There you can unwind in refined comfort, enjoy exquisite cuisine and reflect on the day.

Accommodation: Escarpment Luxury Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

After breakfast at your lodge, a private transfer takes you to Arusha Airport. From there, you fly to Zanzibar and soar above Tanzania’s wilderness and coastline. On arrival, we welcome you and transfer you to Zuri Zanzibar. This exclusive beachfront retreat is known for its white sand, turquoise water and a seamless blend of elegance and nature.

Then you spend the afternoon at leisure. For example, relax by the ocean, explore the resort’s peaceful spaces or stroll along the palm-fringed beach. As the start of the Best of Zanzibar Safari, this day is all about relaxation. So indulge in refined comfort, savour exquisite cuisine and let the sea breeze set the tone for your island escape.

Accommodation: Zuri Zanzibar
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 08 :
Nungwi

Begin your day in the vibrant Nungwi area, one of Zanzibar’s best-known coastal destinations. It is famous for crystal-clear water, soft sandy beaches and a relaxed island atmosphere. In the morning, you are free to swim and sunbathe. Alternatively, you can wander through the local village to experience its unique coastal culture.

In the afternoon, you return to Zuri Zanzibar, where elegant design, tranquil gardens and panoramic ocean views help you unwind. Later, you spend the evening savouring gourmet cuisine and relaxing by the beach. You can also enjoy a breathtaking sunset from your private terrace.

Accommodation: Zuri Zanzibar
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

After breakfast, a private boat takes you to Mnemba Atoll, Zanzibar’s pristine marine sanctuary. Here you dive into an exclusive snorkelling or scuba adventure. You explore vibrant coral reefs and tropical fish and, in season, you may also see graceful sea turtles.

Then you return to &Beyond Mnemba Island Lodge, your private island retreat. You settle into a beachfront private cottage/villa with unobstructed ocean views. In the afternoon, you can go kayaking or paddleboarding in the turquoise water. Alternatively, lounge on a secluded sandbank.

Later, you join a marine conservation briefing for an insider’s look at how this paradise is protected. Finally, you end the day with a sunset cruise with dolphins and a gourmet beach dinner under the stars.

Accommodation: &Beyond Mnemba Island Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 10 :
Spice Tour

After breakfast, you set off on a private spice farm tour to discover Zanzibar’s cloves, cinnamon, vanilla and cardamom. First, you stroll through the plantations and take in the aromas. Then expert farmers explain traditional cultivation and sustainable practices.

During hands-on demonstrations, you also taste fresh spices and tropical fruit straight from the trees. Along the way, you take photos and gain insight into Zanzibar’s farming heritage. Afterwards, you return to the Madinat Al Bahr Business & Spa Hotel, your luxurious waterfront retreat. There you relax and enjoy a gourmet lunch made with freshly sourced spices. Later, you can explore the city’s streets or unwind in comfort with ocean views.

Accommodation: Madinat Al Bahr Business & Spa Hotel
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 11 :
Stone Town

After breakfast at the Madinat Al Bahr Business & Spa Hotel, you set out on a private guided tour of Stone Town. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is famous for its maze of streets, vibrant markets and rich history. First, you discover the city’s Arabian architecture and spice markets. Then you visit historic landmarks such as the House of Wonders, the Old Fort and the Sultan’s Palace.

As you stroll through narrow alleyways, you meet local artisans and photograph colourful doors, bustling markets and street scenes. Next, you enjoy a gourmet lunch at a boutique café. Afterwards, you return to your waterfront hotel for a free afternoon. For example, relax by the ocean, explore the hotel’s facilities or enjoy a spa treatment.

Accommodation: Madinat Al Bahr Business & Spa Hotel
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 12 :
Departure

After a final breakfast at the Madinat Al Bahr Business & Spa Hotel, take a last walk along the pristine beach. Alternatively, simply enjoy the resort’s peaceful surroundings. Then your private transfer takes you to Zanzibar International Airport for your onward journey. As you leave, you can reflect on twelve days of extraordinary experiences, from Tanzania’s wildlife-rich savannah to the turquoise water and cultural treasures of Zanzibar. This marks the end of your Best of Tanzania & Zanzibar Safari, a journey full of luxury, adventure and unforgettable beauty.

Included & Excluded

  • Meet and greet services upon arrival
  • Private airport transfers throughout the itinerary
  • Luxury accommodation as specified (lodges, camps, beachfront resorts)
  • All meals as indicated (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
  • All domestic flights within Tanzania (Arusha–Serengeti, Arusha–Zanzibar)
  • Private professional English-speaking safari guide
  • Private 4x4 safari vehicle with pop-up roof for game viewing
  • All park entry fees and conservation fees
  • Scheduled game drives and safari activities
  • Hot air balloon safari with champagne breakfast
  • Maasai cultural experience
  • Guided spice tour in Zanzibar
  • Guided Stone Town tour
  • Mnemba Atoll snorkeling or marine excursion
  • Bottled drinking water during safari
  • Government taxes and levies
  • International flights to/from Tanzania
  • Visa fees and processing
  • Travel insurance (medical, cancellation, evacuation)
  • Optional activities not listed in the itinerary
  • Alcoholic and premium beverages (unless specified by the lodge)
  • Personal expenses (laundry, souvenirs, tips, etc.)
  • Tips and gratuities for guides, drivers, and lodge staff
  • Any increase in park fees or government taxes beyond control
  • Medical expenses and vaccinations
  • Early check-in or late check-out outside standard lodge policies

Map

Frequent Asked Question

What is the best time to take this tour?

This itinerary runs all year round. However, June to October offers the best wildlife viewing in the Serengeti. Meanwhile, January to March is ideal for the wildebeest calving season in the southern plains.

Is this a private or group tour?

This is a fully private luxury safari. So all transfers, game drives and experiences run exclusively for you.

What type of accommodation is provided?

You stay in premium luxury lodges and resorts, such as high-end safari lodges and beachfront properties in Zanzibar. We also choose each one for comfort, privacy and location.

Are flights within Tanzania included?

Yes. All scheduled domestic flights (for example, Arusha–Serengeti and Arusha–Zanzibar) are included. So you spend more time on safari and less time on the road.

What wildlife can I expect to see?

You can expect to see the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, rhino). In addition, look out for giraffes, zebras, wildebeest, cheetahs and diverse birdlife, depending on the season and location.

Is the hot air balloon safari included?

Yes. The itinerary includes a luxury hot air balloon safari in the Serengeti, followed by a champagne bush breakfast.

8% Off
From $17234 $15847
/ Adult
Best of Tanzania & Zanzibar Safari

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