Itinerary
Overview
Luxury Safari and Island Getaway
This 12-day adventure combines the best of Tanzania’s renowned wildlife safaris with the breathtaking beauty of Zanzibar’s tropical beaches. Begin your journey with a thrilling safari through some of Tanzania’s most famous national parks, including Tarangire, Lake Manyara, and the world-famous Ngorongoro Crater. After experiencing close encounters with wildlife and marveling at diverse ecosystems, unwind on the spice island of Zanzibar, known for its rich history, beautiful coral reefs, and pristine beaches. This itinerary blends adventure with relaxation, offering a perfect mix for travelers seeking both excitement and leisure.
This 12-day Tanzania Safari and Zanzibar Tour offers an unparalleled blend of adventure and relaxation. From exhilarating game drives in Tanzania’s best national parks to unwinding on the idyllic beaches of Zanzibar, this itinerary provides a perfect balance of wildlife exploration and tropical luxury.
Highlights & Activities
What's on offer during this trip?
- Iconic Wildlife Safaris: Explore Tanzania’s most famous parks, including Tarangire, Lake Manyara, and Ngorongoro Crater.
- Luxury Accommodations: Stay in exclusive lodges and tented camps, surrounded by nature and wildlife.
- Elephant Encounters: Get close to Tarangire’s famous elephant herds, one of the largest populations in East Africa.
- Ngorongoro Crater Tour: Descend into the world’s largest intact volcanic caldera, home to an abundance of wildlife including rhinos, lions, and elephants.
- Tropical Island Escape: End your journey with 4 days in Zanzibar, relaxing on pristine beaches, exploring historic Stone Town, and enjoying optional activities like swimming with dolphins.
- Cultural Insights: Learn about the local communities and ecosystems of both mainland Tanzania and Zanzibar.
- Visit the Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
- Experience authentic Maasai culture with a village visit.
- Luxurious tented camps and lodges offering comfort and panoramic views
Itinerary
Day to day
Day 1: Arrival in Tanzania – Arusha
Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport, where you will be greeted by an Ecological Wilderness Adventures representative. Transfer to Arusha Coffee Lodge for an overnight stay. Rest and prepare for the exciting safari adventure ahead.
Overnight: Arusha Coffee Lodge
Day 2-3: Tarangire National Park – Swala Tented Camp
After breakfast, head to Tarangire National Park, famous for its large elephant herds and baobab trees. Enjoy game drives and lunch at Tarangire Safari Lodge. Continue toward the southwestern part of the park to your luxurious tented camp. The next two days will be spent exploring the park’s diverse landscapes, observing herds of elephants, and marveling at the unique ecosystem.
Day 4-5: Lake Manyara National Park – Tloma Mountain Lodge
Drive to Lake Manyara National Park for a full-day game drive. Lake Manyara is known for its dense forests, large flocks of flamingos, and rich wildlife. Explore the diverse habitats, from groundwater-fed forests to the lake’s edge. After your game drive, head to Tloma Mountain Lodge, where you will relax for two nights.
Day 6: Ngorongoro Crater – Ngorongoro Crater Lodge
Today, you will continue to the famous Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The crater is one of the best places in Tanzania to see black rhinos and large prides of lions. Descend into the crater for a full day of wildlife viewing before retreating to the luxurious Ngorongoro Crater Lodge for an evening of relaxation.
Day 7: Ngorongoro Crater Exploration
Spend another day exploring the Ngorongoro Crater, observing its unique landscape and rich wildlife. You’ll have the opportunity to witness the incredible biodiversity of the region, from massive elephants to colorful flamingos.
Day 8-11: Zanzibar Island
Fly from Arusha to Zanzibar, the spice island. Your stay begins in Stone Town, where you’ll have time to explore the narrow alleyways, vibrant markets, and historical landmarks. The next few days will be spent at leisure, with options for a spice tour, Jozani Forest visit, or swimming with dolphins. Soak up the sun on white-sand beaches and explore the vibrant coral reefs.
Day 12: Zanzibar – Departure
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight to Dar es Salaam, where you will connect with your international flight home.
What's Included?
- Accommodation: 6 nights in luxury tented camps and lodges.
- Meals: Full-board (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) throughout the safari.
- Transport: 4×4 safari vehicle with a pop-up roof for game viewing, including airport transfers.
- Professional Guide: Services of an experienced, English-speaking safari guide.
- Park Fees: All national park entrance fees, including the Ngorongoro Crater.
- Game Drives: Daily game drives as per the itinerary.
Drinking Water: Bottled water during game drives. - Maasai Village Visit: A cultural visit to a Maasai village (if time permits on Day 7).
- Internal Flights: Domestic flight from Arusha to Serengeti (if applicable).
- Emergency Evacuation: AMREF Flying Doctors emergency evacuation insurance.
What's Excluded?
- International Flights: Flights to and from Kilimanjaro International Airport.
- Visas: Entry visas for Tanzania.
- Travel Insurance: Comprehensive travel and medical insurance.
- Gratuities: Tips for guides, drivers, and lodge staff.
- Personal Expenses: Items of a personal nature such as souvenirs, additional beverages, and laundry services.
- Optional Activities: Any activities not mentioned in the itinerary (e.g., hot air balloon safari).
- Alcoholic Beverages: Alcoholic drinks at lodges and camps unless otherwise stated.
- Covid-19 Related Expenses: Any testing or quarantine costs related to Covid-19 regulations.