16 Day Tanzania Luxury Safari & Zanzibar Beach Holiday
Overview
This 16-day luxury itinerary has been carefully designed to showcase Tanzania’s greatest safari highlights combined with the relaxing beauty of Zanzibar. The journey blends wildlife, culture, adventure, and island charm into a once-in-a-lifetime experience, perfect for those seeking both exploration and indulgence.
The trip begins in Arusha with a gentle introduction at Lake Duluti, where canoeing and a barbecue dinner set the tone for adventure. You’ll then head into the wilderness of Tarangire National Park, a land of ancient baobabs and enormous elephant herds. From there, continue to Karatu and the dramatic Ngorongoro Crater, home to one of the densest wildlife populations in Africa. After lunch, you’ll drive on to the endless plains of the Serengeti, where luxury tented camps immerse you in one of the world’s most iconic safari destinations. Two full days here give you the chance to witness the Great Migration (seasonal) and spot predators in their natural environment.
The safari adventure deepens as you continue to Lake Natron, a hauntingly beautiful alkaline lake with flamingos, rugged volcanic landscapes, and cultural encounters with the Maasai. After exploring its unique scenery, you return to Arusha for a walking safari in Arusha National Park, combining wildlife with scenic views of Mount Meru and Mount Kilimanjaro.
From the bush, your journey takes a new direction as you board a flight to Zanzibar, where luxury beach resorts in Nungwi provide the perfect setting for relaxation. Over four full days, you’ll balance leisure with cultural discovery – visiting historic Stone Town, wandering spice plantations, sailing on traditional dhows, snorkeling in turquoise waters, or simply soaking up the sun with a cocktail in hand.
The final morning allows for one last stroll along the beach before your transfer to the airport for departure. This 16-day itinerary ensures every moment is filled with authentic experiences and luxurious comfort, offering the perfect mix of African adventure and island bliss.
Your adventure continues into the Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, often called the “Eighth Wonder of the World,” with its unique caldera and dense concentration of wildlife. You’ll then head to Tarangire National Park, famed for its massive elephant herds and iconic baobab trees, before returning to Arusha to connect with your flight to Zanzibar.
The second half of your journey is pure relaxation. You’ll stay in Nungwi, one of Zanzibar’s most pristine beach areas, with its turquoise waters and powdery white sands. Here, the days are yours to spend as you please — lounging on the beach, enjoying spa treatments, indulging in fine seafood, or choosing optional excursions such as spice tours, Stone Town visits, snorkeling, or a dhow sunset cruise. The final day will include a seamless transfer to the airport for your international departure, leaving you with unforgettable memories of Tanzania’s wild heart and Zanzibar’s serene paradise.
This itinerary balances luxury, adventure, and cultural immersion, ensuring each day offers comfort, exclusivity, and unforgettable experiences.
Safari Itinerary
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by a Tanzaniatrail representative holding a personalized name tag with our logo. After a short introduction, you will be transferred to your lodge in Arusha to relax and refresh. In the evening, you will meet your safari guide, who will provide a detailed briefing about your trip, covering routes, parks, wildlife highlights, and useful tips, before enjoying dinner at the lodge.
Meals: Not Included
Premium Accommodation: Gran Melia
After a relaxed breakfast, you’ll be driven to the serene Lake Duluti, located just outside Arusha. This crater lake is surrounded by forested slopes and offers both tranquility and adventure. You will have the chance to canoe on the lake, watching for kingfishers, herons, and other bird species. The peaceful setting makes it a perfect introduction to Tanzania’s natural beauty. Afterward, enjoy a freshly prepared barbecue lunch by the lakeside. The afternoon is free for walking around the lake or relaxing with views of the water. Later, return to your lodge in Arusha, where you can unwind and prepare for the exciting safari days ahead. Dinner and overnight at your luxury lodge.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Premium Accommodation: Gran Melia
This morning, you’ll depart for Tarangire National Park, a wildlife-rich area renowned for its giant baobab trees and massive elephant herds. Along the way, pass through small villages and open plains, giving you glimpses of daily Tanzanian life. Upon arrival, you’ll embark on your first game drive in Tarangire, where lions, leopards, giraffes, and zebras roam freely. The Tarangire River serves as a lifeline, attracting wildlife year-round. Lunch will be served at your luxury tented camp, after which you’ll continue exploring the park. End your day with a sundowner in the wilderness, followed by a delicious dinner at your camp under a star-filled sky. Overnight in Tarangire.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Premium Accommodation: Acacia Tarangire Luxury Camp
Today you’ll explore Arusha National Park, which is often overlooked but offers an incredible mix of scenery and wildlife. Begin with a game drive through lush forests, open plains, and volcanic craters. You’ll see giraffes, zebras, buffalo, and baboons, with lucky sightings of bushbuck and colobus monkeys. A highlight of the day is the guided walking safari, where a park ranger will lead you on foot through safe areas of the park. This experience offers a closer connection with nature, learning about tracks, plants, and smaller creatures often missed from a vehicle. Return to your lodge in Arusha for dinner and overnight.
Meals: Full Board
Premium Accommodation: Kitela Lodge
Today begins with an early drive to Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site often called Africa’s “Eden.” Descend 600 meters to the crater floor, where nearly every species of African wildlife can be found. Enjoy a game drive across open grasslands and lakeshores, with opportunities to see lions, hippos, buffalo, flamingos, and even the rare black rhino. A picnic lunch will be served by a hippo pool. Afterward, drive through the crater highlands and into the vast Serengeti. Wildlife viewing begins as soon as you enter the park. Arrive at your luxury tented camp in time for dinner and a night surrounded by the sounds of the wild.
Meals: Full Board
Premium Accommodation: Serengeti Luxury Retreat
Spend two incredible days exploring the Serengeti, one of the most famous safari destinations on Earth. Morning and afternoon game drives will maximize your chances of seeing predators such as lions, cheetahs, and leopards. Depending on the season, you may also witness the Great Migration, where millions of wildebeest and zebras move across the plains in search of fresh grazing. Between game drives, relax at your luxury camp, swim in the pool, or enjoy spa treatments. Evenings are magical, with sundowners in the bush followed by dinners under starry skies. These two days immerse you in the true spirit of Africa.
Meals: Full Board
Premium Accommodation: Serengeti Luxury Retreat
After breakfast, depart the Serengeti and begin your scenic journey towards Lake Natron, a remote and otherworldly landscape at the base of the Great Rift Valley. The drive offers views of volcanic mountains and endless plains, with occasional wildlife sightings along the way. On arrival, you’ll check into your luxury lodge and in the afternoon enjoy a cultural visit to a Maasai village. Here you’ll meet local Maasai families, learn about their traditions, see their bomas (huts), and gain insight into their unique way of life. This enriching encounter blends culture with nature, making your Lake Natron stay truly memorable. Dinner and overnight near Lake Natron.
Meals: Full Board
Premium Accommodation: Ngare Sero – Lake Natron Camp
This morning, embark on a guided hike to the Engaresero Waterfall, one of Lake Natron’s hidden gems. The walk takes you along narrow gorges and across streams, offering spectacular views of cliffs and volcanic landscapes. At the end of the walk, you’ll reach a refreshing waterfall where you can dip your feet in cool waters and enjoy the serenity of the area. After this adventure, return to your lodge for a hearty breakfast. Later, begin your drive back to Arusha, arriving in the late afternoon. Relax at your luxury lodge in Arusha, enjoying a warm dinner and reflecting on your incredible experiences.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Premium Accommodation: Gran Melia
Today, enjoy a luxurious day exploring Arusha National Park, a stunning landscape where Mount Meru rises above lush forests, sparkling lakes, and open savannah. Begin with a private guided game drive, spotting giraffes, zebras, and buffaloes grazing beside the Momella Lakes, framed by breathtaking views of Kilimanjaro in the distance. Enjoy a gourmet picnic lunch set in the heart of nature before continuing with a ranger-guided walking safari at the foothills of Mount Meru. This intimate experience lets you feel the rhythm of the wild and connect with Tanzania’s natural serenity. Return to your lodge for a relaxing evening, fine dining, and a peaceful overnight stay in Arusha.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Premium Accommodation: Gran Melia
After breakfast, you’ll transfer to Arusha Airport for your flight to Zanzibar. The short flight offers breathtaking views of Mount Kilimanjaro and the Indian Ocean. On arrival, you’ll be greeted and transferred to your luxury beach resort in Nungwi, located on one of Zanzibar’s most pristine beaches. The afternoon is yours to relax on the soft white sands or swim in the turquoise waters. As the sun sets, enjoy a cocktail by the beach before a gourmet dinner prepared with fresh seafood and spices. Overnight at your luxury resort with the gentle sound of waves outside your room.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Premium Accommodation: Zuri Zanzibar
These four days are devoted to relaxation and exploration of Zanzibar’s treasures. You may choose to unwind at the beach, indulge in spa treatments, or swim in the warm ocean. Optional activities include a visit to Stone Town, where winding alleys, spice markets, and historic architecture tell Zanzibar’s story. A spice farm tour will introduce you to cloves, cinnamon, and other fragrant crops. For adventure, take a private dhow trip to Mnemba Atoll for snorkeling and dolphin watching. Evenings are magical with romantic beach dinners under lantern light. Each night, return to your luxury resort for restful sleep by the ocean.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Premium Accommodation: Zuri Zanzibar
After breakfast, enjoy your final morning in Zanzibar. You may take a last swim in the pool, a stroll along the beach, or simply relax with a view of the Indian Ocean. Later, a private transfer will take you to Zanzibar International Airport for your onward flight. Your 16-day Tanzania luxury journey comes to an end, filled with memories of safaris across Serengeti, cultural encounters at Lake Natron, and the serenity of Zanzibar’s beaches. It’s the perfect balance of adventure, culture, and relaxation – a once-in-a-lifetime escape.
Meals: Breakfast
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
- Domestic Flight
- Premium accommodation in high-end lodges or luxury tented camps
LUXURY EXCLUDES
- Travel Insurance
- International Flights
- Tipping
- Personal Equipments
- Visa fees
- Premium wines and spirits (unless specified)
FAQs
A luxury safari goes far beyond basic wildlife viewing. It includes upscale accommodations such as five-star lodges or luxury tented camps with ensuite bathrooms, fine dining experiences, attentive staff, and personalized itineraries. Guests enjoy exclusive access to prime locations, private vehicles for game drives, and seamless logistics including fly-in safaris. The comfort, privacy, and exclusivity make luxury safaris a perfect choice for discerning travelers.
The dry season from June to October is ideal for luxury safaris, as animals gather around water sources and vegetation is sparse, making wildlife easier to spot. For those interested in witnessing the Great Migration river crossings, July through September in northern Serengeti is unbeatable. However, the green season (November–March) also offers lush landscapes, baby animals, and fewer crowds with reduced rates at some luxury lodges.
Expect opulence blended with nature. Accommodations range from canvas tented suites with hardwood floors and chandeliers to private villas with plunge pools and panoramic views. Amenities often include 24-hour electricity, hot showers, king-sized beds, gourmet meals, spa services, and butler service, ensuring you relax in absolute comfort after a thrilling game drive.
Yes, many luxury lodges provide reliable Wi-Fi, especially in public areas or guest rooms. However, due to remote locations, speeds may vary, and this is often seen as an opportunity to digitally detox and immerse yourself in nature.
Tanzania is a wildlife paradise, home to the Big Five—lion, leopard, rhino, elephant, and buffalo—as well as cheetahs, zebras, giraffes, wildebeests, crocodiles, hippos, hyenas, jackals, and over 1,100 species of birds. The diversity is staggering and changes by season and region, with the Serengeti and Ngorongoro offering year-round sightings.
ypically, luxury safaris include accommodation, all meals, drinks (including select alcoholic beverages), game drives, park fees, airport transfers, and sometimes local flights. Extras such as hot air balloon rides, spa treatments, or private charter planes may be additional and can be added upon request.
Mid-range offers comfort with a romantic touch—cozy lodges, ensuite tents, great service.
Luxury adds exclusivity—private plunge pools, butler service, high-end amenities, and often fly-in safaris for convenience and style.
Definitely. Many luxury safaris conclude with a relaxing beach holiday in Zanzibar, known for its white sand beaches, turquoise waters, and luxury resorts. Direct flights from Serengeti or Arusha make this transition seamless and stress-free.
Of course! We can arrange visits to Maasai villages, coffee farms, or Spice Island tours in Zanzibar. These experiences offer beautiful insight into local life and traditions—perfect for meaningful memories together.
Consult your doctor at least 6 weeks before travel. Yellow fever vaccination is mandatory if arriving from an endemic country. Malaria prophylaxis is recommended. Also, bring insect repellent and consider travel insurance that includes medical evacuation coverage.
A luxury safari can range from 5 to 12 days, depending on your travel goals. A typical itinerary includes 2–3 nights each in Serengeti, Ngorongoro, and Tarangire, allowing time for slow travel, relaxation, and exploration.
While last-minute safaris are possible, we highly recommend booking at least 3–6 months in advance, especially during the high season. Luxury accommodations are limited and tend to fill up quickly due to their exclusivity.
Booking is easy! Contact us via info@tanzaniatrail.co.tz or WhatsApp +255 764 987 596. Our experienced team will help craft your personalized luxury safari itinerary based on your travel dates, preferences, and budget. We handle everything from start to finish.
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.