15 Day Tanzania Safari + Zanzibar Beach Holiday
Overview
Experience Tanzania at its best on this unforgettable 15-day Tanzania Safari + Zanzibar, a trip designed for those who want breathtaking scenery, world-class wildlife experiences, true African experiences and total relaxation on the beautiful beaches of Zanzibar. From the stunning volcanic landscape of Lake Natron to the endless plains of the Serengeti, the world-famous Ngorongoro Crater, the giant baobab trees of Tarangire National Park and finally the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean, this itinerary highlights the very best that Tanzania has to offer.
Your adventure begins in Arusha and heads north across the Maasai plains to the stunning Lake Natron, one of Tanzania’s most unique and pristine destinations. Lake Natron is dominated by the magnificent Ol Doinyo Lengai, Africa’s only active carbonatite volcano, offering breathtaking scenery like nowhere else in East Africa. During your stay you will discover the spectacular Ngare Sero Waterfalls, walk across the dramatic soda lake that attracts thousands of flamingos during the breeding season and experience the rich traditions of the Maasai people who have called this remarkable landscape home for generations.
The safari continues from Lake Natron to the legendary Serengeti National Park, one of Africa’s most famous wildlife viewing destinations and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Experience four unforgettable days in the Serengeti, away from the main tourist routes, following the movements of wildlife across its endless golden plains. Every game drive is a spectacle, from the spectacular Great Migration to lions lazing under acacia trees, elusive leopards, graceful giraffes and large elephant herds. Time in the Serengeti is a wonderful opportunity for wildlife photography, relaxed game viewing and unforgettable moments in one of the world’s great natural ecosystems.
The journey continues to the magnificent Ngorongoro Crater, often referred to as the Garden of Eden of Africa. This incredible UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to one of the continent’s most concentrated populations of wildlife, offering incredible opportunities to see the legendary Big Five within the span of a single day. The floor of the crater is surrounded by lush forests and towering crater walls and is home to lions, elephants, buffaloes, black rhinos, hippos, flamingos, hyenas, wildebeests, zebras, gazelles and countless other species, making it one of the most rewarding safaris in Africa.
Your safari ends in Tarangire National Park, famous for its ancient baobab trees, seasonal marshes and large herds of elephants. The varied landscapes of the park host an amazing diversity of wildlife all year round; it is the ideal last safari before taking the flight to Zanzibar. Enjoy a final game drive amongst the elephants, giraffes, zebras, lions, buffaloes and a wealth of birdlife whilst soaking up the unforgettable beauty of Tanzania’s wilderness.
You will leave the mainland for the tropical island of Zanzibar and enjoy 4 full days of relaxation in the beautiful coastal village of Nungwi. Nungwi is famous for its powder-white beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters and spectacular sunsets. It’s the perfect place to relax after your safari adventure. Relax on the Indian Ocean, swim in warm tropical waters or enjoy a range of optional activities, including snorkelling, scuba diving, traditional dhow sunset cruises, kayaking, paddleboarding, jet skiing, deep-sea fishing and excursions to the world-famous Mnemba Atoll Marine Reserve. Alternatively, you can explore the colourful fishing village, visit the sea turtle conservation centre, indulge in a relaxing spa treatment or simply enjoy fresh seafood and embrace the laid-back island life.
This 15-day Tanzania Safari + Zanzibar is the ideal combination of adventure and relaxation for couples, families, honeymooners or groups of friends. Offering dramatic volcanic landscapes, iconic safari destinations, extraordinary wildlife, authentic cultural experiences and the tropical paradise of Zanzibar, this carefully crafted itinerary promises unforgettable memories and a truly once-in-a-lifetime journey through the heart of Tanzania.
Safari Itinerary
Karibu Tanzania! Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport you will be met and greeted by your professional Tanzaniatrail safari guide and transferred to your hotel in Arusha, the gateway to Tanzania’s famous Northern Safari Circuit. Travelling through the colourful town at the foot of the towering slopes of Mount Meru, you will get your first taste of Tanzania’s stunning scenery and friendly welcome. Depending on your arrival time, you can spend the rest of the day relaxing at your lodge, recovering from your journey or enjoying the peaceful surroundings. Your guide will give you a short safari briefing this evening before your unforgettable adventure begins tomorrow morning.
Meals: Not Included
Comfort Accommodation: Forest Hill Hotel
Premium Accommodation: Ngaresero Lodge
After breakfast, leave Arusha and drive through the dramatic scenery of the Great Rift Valley to the remote and spectacular Lake Natron. Along the way you’ll enjoy fabulous views of Maasai villages, volcanic mountains and endless plains before reaching one of Tanzania’s most distinctive destinations. Afternoon: Hike through a narrow gorge to the stunning Ngare Sero Waterfalls and cool down under the falling water. Enjoy spectacular views of Ol Doinyo Lengai, the only active carbonatite volcano in Africa, as the sun sets. Return to your lodge for a relaxing evening in unforgettable surroundings.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Comfort Accommodation: African Safari Lake Natron
Premium Accommodation: Ngare Sero – Lake Natron Camp
Spend the day discovering the extraordinary beauty of Lake Natron, one of East Africa's most fascinating natural wonders. Accompanied by a local guide, walk across sections of the striking soda lake, famous for attracting thousands of lesser flamingos during the breeding season, while learning about its unique ecosystem and geological significance. Visit nearby Maasai communities to experience their rich traditions and way of life before exploring the surrounding landscapes dominated by volcanic escarpments and dramatic scenery. The combination of breathtaking views, abundant birdlife, and authentic cultural encounters makes Lake Natron one of Tanzania's most rewarding hidden gems.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Comfort Accommodation: African Safari Lake Natron
Premium Accommodation: Ngare Sero – Lake Natron Camp
After breakfast leave Lake Natron and drive through some of the most spectacular scenery in northern Tanzania on your way to the legendary Serengeti National Park. Your exciting first game drive begins as soon as you enter the park, exploring the endless plains in search of lions, elephants, giraffes, buffaloes, zebras, wildebeests, cheetahs, leopards and many other incredible wildlife species. Every kilometre presents new photographic opportunities and your experienced guide will be sharing fascinating insights into the Serengeti ecosystem before you arrive at your lodge for dinner and your first unforgettable night in Africa's most famous national park.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Comfort Accommodation: Serenity Camps and Lodges
Premium Accommodation: Serengeti Luxury Retreat
Wake up to the unforgettable sounds of the African bush and spend a full day exploring the world-renowned Serengeti National Park. With your expert safari guide you will explore endless golden plains in search of the Big Five and incredible diversity of wildlife including lions, leopards, cheetahs, elephants, giraffes, buffaloes, zebras, wildebeests, hyenas, hippos, crocodiles and countless antelope species. Depending on the season you may also see the spectacular Great Migration, with its massive herds moving through the Serengeti ecosystem Enjoy a picnic lunch at a scenic location, before continuing your afternoon game drive and return to your lodge as the African sun dips over the savannah.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Comfort Accommodation: Serenity Camps and Lodges
Premium Accommodation: Serengeti Luxury Retreat
It is another exciting day in one of the greatest wildlife destinations in Africa. Today you can follow the movement of wildlife and seasonal activity, and explore different regions of the Serengeti. Discover hidden valleys, rocky kopjes, seasonal rivers and open grasslands where predator and prey share one of the planet’s most extraordinary ecosystems. Each game drive is different and new surprises await you. You will have great opportunities for wildlife photography and learn about the fascinating behaviours and conservation of the animals that call the Serengeti home. Return to your lodge in the evening for another relaxing night in the sounds of the African wilderness.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Comfort Accommodation: Serenity Camps and Lodges
Premium Accommodation: Serengeti Luxury Retreat
Your last full day in the Serengeti gives you the chance to see the park at a leisurely pace, and visit areas you may not have covered on previous game drives. Spot large herds of elephants, graceful giraffes, prides of lions, elusive leopards, cheetahs, buffaloes and myriad species of birds, all against the backdrop of the stunning scenery that has made the Serengeti one of the world's most famous safari destinations. Every moment is a new opportunity to see nature at its best, before retiring back to your lodge for a memorable final evening under the spectacular African sky.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Comfort Accommodation: Serenity Camps and Lodges
Premium Accommodation: Serengeti Luxury Retreat
Have an early breakfast and enjoy your last wildlife sightings as you leave the Serengeti and travel towards the magnificent Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Fly down more than 600 metres into the breathtaking Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its exceptional concentration of wildlife. Spend the day looking for the legendary Big Five and encounter hippos, flamingos, zebras, wildebeest, hyenas, gazelles and countless other species that thrive within this unique ecosystem. After a scenic picnic lunch on the crater floor, climb up the crater walls and make your way to the lovely town of Karatu for your overnight stay.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Comfort Accommodation: Marera Valley Lodge
Premium Accommodation: Kitela Lodge
After breakfast you will head to the spectacular Tarangire National Park, home to ancient baobab trees, sweeping savannahs and one of East Africa's largest elephant populations. You will have an exciting game drive through the park and spot elephants, lions, giraffes, zebras, buffaloes, wildebeests, impalas, warthogs and more than 550 species of birds. The Tarangire River attracts wildlife all year round, so every game drive is rewarding and full of unforgettable encounters. In the afternoon, return to your lodge near the park and think about yet another wonderful day in the African wilderness.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Comfort Accommodation: Ang'ata Tarangire Camp
Premium Accommodation: Acacia Tarangire Luxury Camp
Enjoy one final morning game drive in Tarangire National Park, when wildlife is at its most active, before leaving the park late in the morning and travelling back to Arusha Airport. Board your scheduled domestic flight to the beautiful island of Zanzibar, where crystal-clear turquoise waters and powder-white beaches await. Upon arrival, a warm welcome awaits you, and you will be transferred to your beachfront resort in Nungwi, one of Zanzibar's most picturesque coastal villages. Spend the remainder of the day relaxing by the Indian Ocean and enjoying the peaceful tropical atmosphere.
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Comfort Accommodation: The Z Hotel Zanzibar
Premium Accommodation: Zuri Zanzibar
Enjoy 4 unforgettable days in the tropical beauty of Nungwi, one of Zanzibar’s most spectacular beach destinations. Relax on pristine white-sand beaches, swim in warm turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean, or just relax under swaying palm trees, soaking up breathtaking ocean views. For those guests in search of adventure there are optional activities including snorkelling, scuba diving, jet skiing, paddleboarding, kayaking, deep sea fishing, traditional sunset dhow cruises and excursions to the world famous Mnemba Atoll Marine Reserve. You can also visit the Nungwi Turtle Aquarium, stroll through the traditional fishing village, treat yourself to a relaxing spa treatment, eat fresh caught seafood or simply enjoy the spectacular sunsets over the Indian Ocean.
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Comfort Accommodation: The Z Hotel Zanzibar
Premium Accommodation: Zuri Zanzibar
You will have breakfast and a relaxed morning at your beach side resort before checking out. Depending on your international flight schedule, enjoy one last walk along the beautiful beaches of Nungwi or just relax and reflect on your unforgettable Tanzanian adventure. When the time comes your driver will take you to Zanzibar International Airport for your onwards flight home. Bring home unforgettable experiences from the Heart of Africa with lifelong memories of amazing wildlife encounters, incredible landscapes, authentic cultural experiences and the tropical paradise 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
Any time of the year is safari time in Tanzania. The dry season from June to October is perfect for wildlife viewing, and the wildebeest calving in Ndutu is best from January to March. The Great Migration is a different place at a different time of year.
Tanzania is home to the famous Big Five—lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and black rhino—as well as cheetahs, giraffes, zebras, wildebeests, hippos, crocodiles, hyenas, antelopes, and over 1,100 bird species. Wildlife sightings vary depending on the season and destination.
Yeah. Tanzania is one of the safest safari destinations in Africa. You will be travelling with a licenced tour operator (Tanzaniatrail Experience Limited) and your guide will ensure your safety on the trip and will adhere to all the National Park rules.
We recommend lightweight neutral-coloured clothing, a light jacket for early mornings, comfortable walking shoes, a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, insect repellent, binoculars, a camera, and any personal medications. Soft-sided luggage is preferred for safari vehicles and domestic flights.
Safaris can be 2 to 14 days or longer. Most travellers opt for between 5 and 8 days to comfortably cover several national parks, but longer safaris offer more time to track the Great Migration or combine wildlife with cultural experiences and Zanzibar.
Sure. Many of our clients opt to end their safari with a relaxing beach holiday in Zanzibar. Domestic flights run daily and it is easy to combine the incredible wildlife of Tanzania with the white sand beaches and turquoise waters of Zanzibar.
Most international visitors require a Tanzanian tourist visa, usually available either online or on arrival, depending on nationality. We also recommend that you discuss recommended vaccinations and malaria prevention with your healthcare provider prior to travel.
Yeah. All our safaris are done in a private 4x4 safari vehicle with a professional English speaking driver-guide unless you specifically ask for a shared safari, so you can travel at your own pace and have a personalised safari experience.
We have selected a variety of accommodation options ranging from comfortable mid-range lodges to luxury lodges, boutique tented camps and ultra-luxury safari camps. Each option has been chosen for great location, hospitality, comfort and dining experience.
At Tanzaniatrail Experience Limited we specialise in designing custom safaris to suit your interests, budget and travel style. From the moment you arrive to the moment you leave, our knowledgeable local guides, reliable safari vehicles, transparent pricing, tailor selected accommodations and personalised service guarantee an authentic, seamless and memorable safari experience.
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.