15 Day Tanzania Private Safari + Zanzibar
Overview
This special 15-day Tanzania Private Safari + Zanzibar is the ultimate East African holiday, featuring the very best of Tanzania’s world-renowned wildlife destinations, complemented by the tropical paradise that is Zanzibar. This itinerary is designed for travellers looking for an in-depth safari experience and a relaxing beach getaway. It takes you through the breathtaking landscapes of Tarangire National Park, the world-famous Serengeti National Park, the beautiful Ngorongoro Crater, the stunning Lake Manyara National Park, the bustling city of Arusha, and the beautiful white-sand beaches of Zanzibar Island.
Your journey starts in Arusha, the safari capital of Tanzania, and then continues to the incredible Tarangire National Park, a secret jewel of northern Tanzania. The park is known for its iconic baobab trees, vast savannahs, seasonal swamps and the life-giving Tarangire River. Tarangire is home to one of the highest concentrations of elephants in East Africa. The dry season, when thousands of animals gather around the river, is a spectacular time for wildlife viewing. With lions, leopards, giraffes, buffaloes, zebras, wildebeests, impalas, elands, ostriches and over 550 species of birds, Tarangire is a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers alike. Two nights here is sufficient to really enjoy the amazing diversity and peacefulness of the park.
Then it’s onto world-famous Serengeti National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Africa’s top safari destinations. The Serengeti covers nearly 15,000 square kilometres of endless grasslands, acacia woodlands, granite kopjes and river systems. It is home to the spectacular Great Wildebeest Migration, where over two million wildebeest, accompanied by zebras and gazelles, move across the ecosystem in search of fresh grazing. Depending on the season, you might see dramatic river crossings, calving season, or vast herds covering the plains. The Serengeti is also one of the best places to see wildlife all year round. Lions, leopards, cheetahs, elephants, giraffes, buffaloes, hippos, crocodiles, hyenas, jackals and hundreds of bird species thrive in this extraordinary ecosystem.
You will spend three unforgettable nights in the Serengeti before you continue on through the magnificent Ngorongoro Conservation Area and descend into the breathtaking Ngorongoro Crater, the world’s largest intact volcanic caldera. This UNESCO World Heritage Site has one of the highest concentrations of wildlife in Africa and provides one of the best opportunities to see the Big Five, including the critically endangered black rhinoceros. The crater’s diverse habitats, ranging from grasslands and forests to wetlands and soda lakes, provide a spectacular backdrop for wildlife experiences you’ll never forget.
Then you drive to Lake Manyara National Park, a scenic jewel beneath the Great Rift Valley Escarpment. The park is small but notable for the diversity of habitats it includes, from lush groundwater forests and open floodplains to acacia woodlands, hot springs and the alkaline lake itself. Lake Manyara is famous for its tree-climbing lions and big elephant populations, as well as playful baboons, hippos and a wealth of birdlife, giving a nice change from the larger parks visited earlier in the safari.
You will have time to enjoy Arusha, the lively safari hub of Tanzania, before leaving the continent. On a guided city tour, you will learn about the local markets, cultural landmarks, craft centres, museums and the daily life of one of East Africa’s most dynamic cities, giving you a deeper appreciation of Tanzania’s people, history and culture before continuing your journey.
Your holiday draws to a close in the idyllic island of Zanzibar, where four unforgettable days of tropical relaxation are in store for you. Surrounded by crystal-clear turquoise waters and powder-white beaches, Zanzibar is home to luxurious beach resorts, vibrant coral reefs, rich Swahili culture, spice plantations and the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Stone Town. Zanzibar is the perfect way to end your safari adventure, whether you want to relax under swaying palm trees, snorkel amongst the colourful marine life, take sunset dhow cruises, explore historic streets or simply chill out by the Indian Ocean.
During your safari you’ll be travelling in a private 4×4 Toyota Land Cruiser with a professional driver-guide, exclusively for your journey. This private safari is all about flexibility, comfort and personal service, letting you experience Tanzania’s wildlife and landscapes at your own pace, creating unforgettable memories.
This 15-day Tanzania private safari + Zanzibar is a great choice for honeymooners, couples, families, photographers and wildlife lovers and offers the perfect mix of luxury, adventure, culture, wildlife and beach relaxation for a once-in-a-lifetime African experience.
Safari Itinerary
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), you will be warmly welcomed by a Tanzaniatrail Experience representative and transferred to your hotel in Arusha. After checking in, relax following your international journey while enjoying the peaceful surroundings of Tanzania's safari capital. Depending on your arrival time, you may enjoy the hotel facilities or simply unwind before meeting your private safari guide for a detailed briefing about the exciting adventure ahead. Dinner and an overnight stay will be at your selected hotel in Arusha.
Meals: Not Included
Comfort Accommodation: Forest Hill Hotel
Premium Accommodation: Ngaresero Lodge
After breakfast, leave Arusha and drive to Tarangire National Park for your first full day of safari. Embark on an exhilarating game drive amongst the giant baobab trees in search of elephants, lions, giraffes, buffaloes, zebras, wildebeest, leopards, impalas, ostriches and many other species of wildlife. The Tarangire River attracts an amazing variety of animals all year round, making for great game viewing. Enjoy a picnic lunch inside the park after your morning safari. Later, arrive at your safari lodge for dinner and a relaxing overnight.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Comfort Accommodation: Ang'ata Tarangire Camp
Premium Accommodation: Acacia Tarangire Luxury Camp
Spend the day with your expert private safari guide discovering the incredible wildlife and diverse landscapes of Tarangire National Park. Track the wildlife movements and visit various parts of the park while enjoying some great photo opportunities of the elephants, predators, giraffes, antelope and many species of birds. The landscape is breathtaking all day as you look out over rolling hills, seasonal swamps, open savannahs and magnificent baobab trees. Bring a picnic lunch to eat in the wild, then return to the lodge for dinner and another overnight stay.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Comfort Accommodation: Ang'ata Tarangire Camp
Premium Accommodation: Acacia Tarangire Luxury Camp
After breakfast, depart Tarangire and continue through the scenic Ngorongoro Conservation Area on your way to the legendary Serengeti National Park. Enjoy stunning views of the highlands along the way before descending onto the endless plains that characterise one of Africa’s greatest wildlife destinations. As you arrive in the Serengeti begin your first game drive in search of lions, elephants, giraffes, buffaloes, zebras, wildebeests, cheetahs, leopards and many other species of wildlife. Carry on with your safari before reaching your luxury lodge or tented camp for dinner and an overnight stay.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Comfort Accommodation: Serenity Camps and Lodges
Premium Accommodation: Serengeti Luxury Retreat
Explore the world famous Serengeti National Park with your experienced private safari guide for the whole day. Travel through different areas of the park in search of the seasonal Great Wildebeest Migration, predators, elephants, giraffes, hippos, crocodiles, hyenas and hundreds of bird species. Enjoy a picnic lunch in the centre of the spectacular African wilderness before heading out for your afternoon game drive. Return to your accommodation for dinner and a further unforgettable overnight stay.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Comfort Accommodation: Serenity Camps and Lodges
Premium Accommodation: Serengeti Luxury Retreat
After breakfast, enjoy another full day of exciting safari drives across the endless plains of the Serengeti National Park. Depending on recent animal movements, your guide will follow different areas, so you will have the best chances of seeing amazing wildlife encounters and stunning scenery. Watch the predators interact, the vast herds of herbivores and the incredible biodiversity that has made the Serengeti famous the world over. After a picnic lunch, continue your safari in the afternoon before returning to your lodge for dinner and your final night in the park.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Comfort Accommodation: Serenity Camps and Lodges
Premium Accommodation: Serengeti Luxury Retreat
After breakfast, enjoy a last morning game drive as you leave Serengeti National Park and head for the magnificent Ngorongoro Crater. See the Big Five, including the endangered black rhinoceros, and experience a memorable wildlife adventure as you dive 600 metres into this UNESCO World Heritage Site. See the crater floor where elephants, lions, buffaloes, hippos, zebras, wildebeest, flamingos and many other species live. Enjoy a picnic lunch and climb out of the crater walls and head to Karatu for dinner and overnight.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Comfort Accommodation: Marera Valley Lodge
Premium Accommodation: Kitela Lodge
After breakfast drive to Lake Manyara National Park for a memorable game drive through the lush groundwater forests, open plains and scenic lakeshore. Look out for elephants, giraffes, hippos, baboons, blue monkeys, buffaloes and the park’s famous tree-climbing lions and enjoy spectacular views of the Great Rift Valley Escarpment. The park’s many habitats shelter hundreds of species of birds, and it’s a bird lover’s paradise. You will return to Arusha for dinner and an overnight comfort stay.
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Comfort Accommodation: Forest Hill Hotel
Premium Accommodation: Ngaresero Lodge
Today is a good day to take a look at the busy city of Arusha and get a taste of Tanzania outside the national parks. Visit colourful local markets, the Cultural Heritage Centre, local craft shops, museums and other landmarks while learning about the region’s history, traditions and everyday life. Explore the local artisans, search for genuine souvenirs and relish the warm ambiance of Tanzania’s safari capital. After lunch in a local restaurant, continue your exploration before returning to your hotel for dinner and another overnight stay in Arusha.
Meals: Breakfast
Comfort Accommodation: Forest Hill Hotel
Premium Accommodation: Ngaresero Lodge
After breakfast transfer to airport for your domestic flight to Zanzibar. On arrival you will be met and transferred to your luxury beach front resort. The rest of the day is spent relaxing along the crystal-clear waters of the Indian Ocean, enjoying the tropical atmosphere and world-famous white-sand beaches. Dinner and overnight stay will be at your chosen Zanzibar beach resort.
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Comfort Accommodation: The Z Hotel Zanzibar
Premium Accommodation: Zuri Zanzibar
Relax and explore the tropical paradise of Zanzibar at your own pace for the next four days. Relax on the pristine white-sand beaches, swim in the warm turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean, or simply indulge in the luxurious facilities of your beachfront resort. Optional activities: Snorkelling, scuba diving, traditional dhow sunset cruises, spice plantation tours, dolphin excursions, kayaking, paddleboarding, deep-sea fishing and discovering the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Stone Town with its fascinating Swahili, Arab, Persian and European history. Whatever you are looking for, whether it is adventure or total relaxation, Zanzibar provides the perfect end to your memorable Tanzanian holiday.
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Comfort Accommodation: The Z Hotel Zanzibar
Premium Accommodation: Zuri Zanzibar
Enjoy your last morning in Zanzibar after breakfast before transferring to the airport. Depending on your departure time, you can relax on the beach, take a final stroll along the shoreline, or simply enjoy the stunning ocean views before leaving the island. At the appropriate time you will be transferred by your private driver to Zanzibar International Airport (ZNZ) for your onwards flight. Your unforgettable 15 Days Tanzania Private Safari + Zanzibar will conclude with your departure from Tanzania, carrying with you memories of amazing wildlife, stunning scenery, real cultural interactions and the tropical beauty of Zanzibar.
Meals: Breakfast
MID-RANGE INCLUDES
- All Meals as per Itinerary
- Airport Transfers
- National Park Fees
- Private 4x4 safari Jeep with pop-up roof
- Professional English-speaking safari guide
- Government taxes and levies
- Soft Drinks & Wines/Beers
- Domestic Flight
MID-RANGE EXCLUDES
- Travel Insurance
- International Flights
- Tipping
- Personal Equipments
- Visa fees
LUXURY INCLUDES
- All Meals as per Itinerary
- VIP airport pick-up and drop-off
- All national park and conservation area fees
- Private 4x4 safari Jeep with pop-up roof
- Professional English-speaking safari guide
- Government taxes and levies
- Soft Drinks & Wines/Beers
- Premium accommodation in high-end lodges or luxury tented camps
- Domestic Flight
LUXURY EXCLUDES
- Travel Insurance
- International Flights
- Tipping
- Personal Equipments
- Visa fees
- Premium wines and spirits (unless specified)
FAQs
A private safari is a tailor-made wildlife experience where you travel exclusively with your family, friends or travel companions in a dedicated 4x4 safari vehicle with your own professional guide. Unlike group safaris you are in complete control, meaning you can linger as long as you want at wildlife sightings and move at your own pace.
Any time of the year is safari time in Tanzania. The dry season (June to October) is a great time for wildlife viewing and coincides with the Great Migration river crossings in Northern Serengeti. Southern Serengeti (Ndutu) hosts the spectacular Wildebeest calving season from January to March which visitors can witness. The green season is from November to May, with lush landscapes, fewer crowds and fantastic birdwatching.
Most private safaris explore Tanzania's famous Northern Circuit, including Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire National Park, Lake Manyara National Park, Arusha National Park, and cultural experiences around Mto wa Mbu, Lake Natron, or Materuni Waterfalls depending on your itinerary.
A 5-8 day safari is perfect for visiting Tanzania’s most famous parks. For visitors to Zanzibar or those interested in cultural activities, we suggest a 10 to 14 day itinerary for a more relaxed and comprehensive East African experience.
Tanzania is home to the Big Five—lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino—as well as cheetahs, giraffes, zebras, wildebeest, hippos, crocodiles, hyenas, jackals, hundreds of bird species, and many other fascinating animals depending on the season and location.
Yeah. Private safari packages normally include all park entrance fees, Ngorongoro Crater service fees, concession fees (if any), government taxes and conservation charges. Your quote will clearly lay out everything that is included.
Tanzania offers accommodation for every budget, including comfortable mid-range lodges, luxury safari lodges, exclusive tented camps, and ultra-luxury properties. Your accommodation can be customized according to your travel style and budget.
Sure. Private safaris are ideal for families as the itinerary can be adapted to suit the children’s interests, pace of travel and preferred activities. Many lodges also offer family rooms and child-friendly services.
We suggest lightweight, neutral-colored clothing, comfortable walking shoes, hat, sunglasses, sunscreen and insect repellent, and a light jacket for cool mornings. Bring a camera, binoculars, personal medications, and a small daypack. Soft-sided luggage is recommended, particularly if you will be travelling domestically by air.
Yes. Combining a Tanzania safari with Zanzibar is one of our most popular holiday packages. After exciting wildlife adventures, you can relax on Zanzibar's white-sand beaches, explore Stone Town, enjoy snorkeling, diving, spice tours, or simply unwind by the Indian Ocean.
Most international visitors need a tourist visa, which you can get either online or when you arrive, depending on what country you come from. Vaccination for Yellow Fever is only required if you are arriving from or transiting through a country with Yellow Fever transmission. We also recommend that you discuss malaria prevention with your health care provider before travelling.
At Tanzaniatrail Experience we specialise in creating private safaris that are tailor-made to suit your interests, travel style and budget. Our professional experienced guides, well maintained 4x4 safari vehicles, carefully selected accommodations and personalised service guarantees that every journey is safe, comfortable and unforgettable. From your arrival to your departure we take care of all the details so that you can focus on enjoying the beauty of Tanzania.
Giving Back Through Every Journey
At Tanzaniatrail, we believe that travel should create lasting memories and make a positive difference. That’s why 1% of every safari package you book goes directly back to local communities in Tanzania. We regularly visit and support orphanages and community centers, and our dream is to establish a dedicated children’s home under Tanzaniatrail’s care. When you travel with us, you’re not only exploring Tanzania’s beauty — you’re also helping provide education, food, and brighter futures for vulnerable children. Your adventure changes lives. Travel with purpose.