16 Day Tanzania Tanzania Family Safari + Zanzibar
Overview
Tanzania Family Safari + Zanzibar 16 Day Experience the ideal mix of wildlife, culture, adventure and tropical relaxation on this unforgettable Tanzania Family Safari + Zanzibar. This itinerary has been especially designed for families looking for a full Tanzanian holiday including the country’s most spectacular national parks, real cultural experiences and five relaxing days on the breath-taking island of Zanzibar. Every day brings a new adventure, from seeing Africa’s iconic wildlife in their natural habitat to learning about ancient tribal traditions and relaxing on pristine white sand beaches – creating memories that last a lifetime for the whole family.
Your journey begins in the city of Arusha, the gateway to the famous Northern Safari Circuit of Tanzania. You then travel to the magnificent Tarangire National Park. The park is known for its large herds of elephants, ancient baobab trees and the life-giving Tarangire River. It is one of the most rewarding safari experiences in East Africa. It takes two days in here for your family to explore different ecosystems in the search for lions, leopards, elephants, giraffes, zebras, buffaloes, wildebeest, ostriches, warthogs and over 500 species of birds.
The adventure continues to Lake Manyara National Park – a small but very diverse park with lush groundwater forests, an alkaline lake, tree climbing lions, large troops of baboons, flamingos, hippos and elephants. The beautiful scenery and plentiful wildlife make Lake Manyara a great destination for families and wildlife photographers alike.
From here you will continue to the charming highland town of Karatu for one of Tanzania’s most interesting cultural excursions. Meet the Hadzabe people, one of the last remaining hunter-gatherer groups in Africa and learn about their traditional way of life with demonstrations of hunting techniques, fire making, bush survival and knowledge of medicinal plants. Visit the nearby Datoga tribe to see expert blacksmiths crafting farming tools, jewellery and traditional weapons using techniques handed down through the generations. This special cultural experience can give children and adults a better insight into the rich cultural diversity of Tanzania.
Another highlight of the wildlife adventure is a full-day safari in the breathtaking Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the world’s largest intact volcanic caldera. The crater also boasts one of the highest concentrations of wildlife in Africa and the chance to see the Big Five – including the endangered black rhino – as well as elephants, lions, buffaloes, hippos, flamingos, hyenas and many species of antelope, all in one stunning natural setting, is second to none.
Then, journey to the legendary Serengeti National Park, one of the world’s greatest wildlife destinations. Spend 3 unforgettable days discovering endless golden plains home to extraordinary wildlife year round. Depending on the season you may witness the spectacular Great Wildebeest Migration, while year round game viewing includes lions, cheetahs, leopards, elephants, giraffes, zebras, buffaloes, hippos, crocodiles and hundreds of bird species. Every game drive offers new discoveries and unforgettable moments in one of Africa’s most iconic landscapes.
After your safari, relax on a scenic domestic flight direct from the Serengeti to the tropical island of Zanzibar where five days of relaxation await. Zanzibar, with its warm turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean is the perfect end to your Tanzanian adventure. Relax on world-renowned white-sand beaches, swim in crystal-clear waters, snorkel or scuba dive amongst colourful coral reefs, explore the historic streets of Stone Town, visit fragrant spice plantations, or simply unwind at your luxury beachfront resort and enjoy the island’s warm Swahili hospitality.
During your safari your family will be driven in a private 4×4 Toyota Land Cruiser Safari Vehicle specially built for comfort and wildlife viewing. It has a pop-up roof, charging ports, comfy seats, big panoramic windows, a fridge with bottled drinking water and plenty of space for luggage. Benefit from personalised service, flexible game drives, expert wildlife interpretation and fantastic hospitality on your journey with an experienced English speaking safari guide for your family.
The 16 Day Tanzania Family Safari + Zanzibar is a perfect blend of wildlife, culture, education, relaxation and adventure. From watching elephants beneath ancient baobab trees to meeting indigenous communities, exploring the endless plains of the Serengeti or relaxing on Zanzibar’s spectacular beaches, this carefully crafted itinerary offers an unforgettable family holiday in one of Africa’s most extraordinary destinations.
Safari Itinerary
On arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) you will be met and greeted by your professional safari guide and transferred to your comfortable hotel in Arusha. Arusha, at the base of Mount Meru, is the gateway to Tanzania’s Northern Safari Circuit. On arrival and check-in, spend the rest of the day relaxing in the peaceful surrounds of your lodge after your international journey. Depending on your arrival time, you can explore the gardens or relax by the swimming pool. Your guide will give a full safari briefing in the evening, introducing you to the exciting wildlife and cultural experiences that await your family, before dinner and your first overnight in Tanzania.
Meals: Not Included
Comfort Accommodation: Masailand Safari Lodge
Premium Accommodation: Ngaresero Lodge
After breakfast depart Arusha for the spectacular Tarangire National Park, famous for its giant baobab trees and impressive elephant population. As you enter the park start your first thrilling game drive through diverse landscapes where elephants, lions, giraffes, zebras, buffaloes, wildebeest, impalas, warthogs and many species of birds thrive. Wildlife comes to the Tarangire River all year round and it’s one of the best safari destinations in Tanzania. Enjoy a tasty picnic lunch in the park before heading off on your afternoon wildlife adventure. Later transfer to your comfortable lodge for dinner and your first overnight stay close to Tarangire National Park.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Comfort Accommodation: Ang'ata Tarangire Camp
Premium Accommodation: Acacia Tarangire Luxury Camp
Spend a whole day exploring different sections of Tarangire National Park to improve your chances of seeing the park’s incredible wildlife. Morning and afternoon game drives offer excellent opportunities to see huge herds of elephants, lions resting under the shade of acacia trees, leopards lurking among the branches, graceful giraffes, colourful birds and many species of antelope. Your expert safari guide will take you to places known for great animal activity, providing fascinating insights into animal behaviour and conservation work. After a scenic picnic lunch, explore some more before returning to your lodge in the evening for dinner and another tranquil night’s sleep.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Comfort Accommodation: Ang'ata Tarangire Camp
Premium Accommodation: Acacia Tarangire Luxury Camp
After breakfast leave Tarangire and drive to the beautiful Lake Manyara National Park, one of the most diverse wildlife destinations in Tanzania. Explore lush groundwater forests, open grasslands and the shores of the alkaline lake, and look for elephants, hippos, giraffes, baboons, blue monkeys, flamingos and the park's famous tree-climbing lions. Lake Manyara is small and beautiful, and is best for families and wildlife photography. Enjoy a game drive and picnic lunch, and continue through the Great Rift Valley to the charming town of Karatu. Relax at your lodge before dinner and overnight.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Comfort Accommodation: Marera Valley Lodge
Premium Accommodation: Kitela Lodge
After an early breakfast, travel to Lake Eyasi region for one of Tanzania's most authentic cultural experiences. Spend the morning with the Hadzabe people, one of Africa’s last hunter-gatherer communities, and learn about traditional hunting techniques, bush survival skills, medicinal plants and unique click language. Keep visiting the neighbouring Datoga tribe and you will see traditional blacksmithing, jewellery making and local craftsmanship that has been handed down for generations. Return to Karatu in time for lunch, then relax at your lodge in peaceful highland surroundings and enjoy dinner and an overnight stay.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Comfort Accommodation: Marera Valley Lodge
Premium Accommodation: Kitela Lodge
After breakfast, drive to the spectacular Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Descend some 600 metres into the breathtaking Ngorongoro Crater. Often referred to as Africa’s Garden of Eden, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to one of Africa’s richest wildlife concentrations. Spend the day in search of black rhinos, lions, elephants, buffaloes, hippos, hyenas, flamingos, jackals and many species of antelope. Have lunch by the famous hippo pool and then continue your game drive through this incredible volcanic landscape. Later afternoon ascend out of crater walls and drive back to Karatu for dinner and another comfortable overnight stay.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Comfort Accommodation: Marera Valley Lodge
Premium Accommodation: Kitela Lodge
Depart Karatu after breakfast and journey through the scenic Ngorongoro Highlands toward the legendary Serengeti National Park. As you enter the endless plains, your safari begins immediately with exciting wildlife sightings along the route. Search for lions, elephants, giraffes, zebras, buffaloes, cheetahs, leopards, and countless other animals while enjoying one of Africa's most iconic landscapes. Your professional safari guide will explain the unique Serengeti ecosystem and its incredible biodiversity throughout the journey. Arrive at your lodge or luxury tented camp before sunset for dinner and your first unforgettable overnight stay in the Serengeti.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Comfort Accommodation: Serenity Camps and Lodges
Premium Accommodation: Serengeti Luxury Retreat
Get up early to experience the Serengeti at its most active. Drive around the various areas of the park for the day looking for the Big Five and watching incredible animal behaviour. Depending on the season you may see the spectacular Great Wildebeest Migration or predators stalking their prey across the open plains. Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the stunning scenery before continuing your afternoon game drive. In the evening return to your lodge for dinner and an unforgettable night under the African stars.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Comfort Accommodation: Serenity Camps and Lodges
Premium Accommodation: Serengeti Luxury Retreat
Another great day on the endless plains of the Serengeti with your experienced guide. Discover rocky kopjes, home to lions at rest; seasonal rivers, teeming with hippos and crocodiles; and expansive grasslands, haven to thousands of grazing animals. Each game drive presents new opportunities for spectacular wildlife encounters and unforgettable photography. During the day your guide will share fascinating insights into animal behaviour, migration patterns and conservation efforts. Enjoy a second picnic lunch and your wildlife adventure before returning to your lodge for dinner and a relaxing evening.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Comfort Accommodation: Serenity Camps and Lodges
Premium Accommodation: Serengeti Luxury Retreat
After breakfast, you will be transferred to the nearby Serengeti Airstrip for your scheduled domestic flight to the beautiful island of Zanzibar. Before arriving on the tropical island, surrounded by the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean, enjoy spectacular aerial views of Tanzania's landscapes during the flight. Upon arrival meet your local representative and transfer to your beach front resort. Spend the rest of the day relaxing by the swimming pool, strolling along the pristine white-sand beach or just enjoying the refreshing ocean breeze before dinner and your first overnight stay in Zanzibar.
After breakfast, you will be transferred to the nearby Serengeti Airstrip for your scheduled domestic flight to the beautiful island of Zanzibar. Before arriving on the tropical island, surrounded by the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean, enjoy spectacular aerial views of Tanzania's landscapes during the flight. Upon arrival meet your local representative and transfer to your beach front resort. Spend the rest of the day relaxing by the swimming pool, strolling along the pristine white-sand beach or just enjoying the refreshing ocean breeze before dinner and your first overnight stay in Zanzibar.
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Comfort Accommodation: The Z Hotel Zanzibar
Premium Accommodation: Zuri Zanzibar
The next five days in the tropical paradise of Zanzibar, with its pristine white-sand beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters and warm Swahili hospitality, make the perfect family escape. Or simply relax at your beach resort, take a dip in the gentle Indian Ocean or soak in the peaceful atmosphere beneath the rustling palm trees. Families can also choose from an array of optional excursions including snorkelling, scuba diving, paddleboarding, kayaking, traditional dhow sunset cruises, dolphin tours or visits to a spice farm or the fascinating streets of Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, bursting with culture, history and architecture. These relaxed days provide a perfect way to end your unforgettable Tanzanian adventure.
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Comfort Accommodation: The Z Hotel Zanzibar
Premium Accommodation: Zuri Zanzibar
After breakfast, enjoy your last moments in Zanzibar before transfer to Zanzibar International Airport (ZNZ) according to schedule. Depending on your flight time you can either relax on the beach, or take one last stroll along the shoreline, or just enjoy the spectacular views of the ocean before departing. Your driver will comfortably transfer you to the airport for your onwards flight home. As your amazing family holiday draws to a close, depart with unforgettable memories of Tanzania's amazing wildlife, authentic cultural experiences, stunning landscapes and the tropical beauty of Zanzibar. This perfectly planned itinerary is the ultimate mix of safari adventure, cultural discovery and beach relaxation for travellers of all ages.
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
"Yes. Tanzania is one of Africa’s best family safari destinations, with incredible wildlife, family-friendly lodges, private safaris and unforgettable educational experiences. Both children and adults can see the Big Five, the Great Wildebeest Migration and breathtaking landscapes while making lifelong memories together.
Most family safaris are suitable for children aged 5 years and above, although some lodges welcome younger children. Families with toddlers or teenagers can enjoy customized itineraries designed around their pace, interests, and comfort.
Tarangire National Park, Serengeti Nation Park, Ngorongoro Crater, Lake Manyara National Park and Arusha National Park are the most popular parks for family. Both offer excellent wildlife viewing, comfortable accommodations and exciting activities that are perfect for families.
Yeah. A private Tanzania family safari gives you the absolute flexibility to travel at your own pace, to stop wherever your family feels like it, to change game drive schedules and to have a dedicated professional safari guide who is totally focused on your family’s experience.
There are great opportunities for families to see the Big Five—lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo and rhinoceros, as well as giraffes, zebras, cheetahs, hippos, crocodiles, wildebeests, monkeys, hyenas, antelopes and hundreds of colorful bird species.
Tanzania has amazing safaris throughout the year. Wildlife viewing is best in the dry season (June-October) and the Great Migration calving season is best from January to March. The green season is a popular time for many families who prefer less crowded travel.
Yeah. Tanzania offers a wide range of family-friendly lodges, luxury tented camps and safari resorts with family suites, interconnecting rooms, swimming pools, children’s menus and activities especially for younger guests.
Sure. Many families combine a Tanzania safari with a Zanzibar beach holiday where kids and parents can relax on white-sand beaches, swim in the Indian Ocean, snorkel, do some water sports and explore the rich culture of the island after the safari adventure.
Yeah. Tanzania is one of the safest safari destinations in Africa for families. With an experienced professional guide, reputable lodges and standard safari safety guidelines you can be assured of a comfortable and safe family holiday.
Bring light, neutral-colored clothing, comfortable walking shoes, hats, sunscreen, sunglasses, insect repellent, reusable water bottles, cameras, binoculars, personal medications and warm layers for early morning game drives. Remember to bring entertainment items for younger children during transfers.
Yeah. Children can enjoy game drives, cultural village visits, nature walks, junior ranger programs, wildlife education activities, birdwatching, and family-friendly conservation experiences, depending on their age and lodge policies, so the safari will be fun and educational.
Tanzaniatrail Experience is a specialist in tailor-made Tanzania family safaris, tailored to your family’s interests, comfort and travel style. We offer private 4x4 safari vehicles, experienced professional guides, carefully chosen family friendly accommodation, flexible itinerary, child friendly activities and excellent service to ensure that your family has a safe, memorable and unforgettable African safari adventure.
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.