16 Day Tanzania Safari & Zanzibar Beach Holiday
Overview
Experience the ultimate East African adventure on this unforgettable 16-day Tanzania Safari & Zanzibar Beach Holiday, a carefully crafted journey that combines breathtaking landscapes, authentic cultural experiences, world-class wildlife viewing and the tropical paradise of Zanzibar. This itinerary caters to travellers seeking the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation and highlights the very best of Tanzania, taking you from the lush foothills of Mount Kilimanjaro to the remote wilderness of Lake Natron, the endless plains of the Serengeti, the magnificent Ngorongoro Crater, the giant baobabs of Tarangire National Park and finally the pristine white-sand beaches of Zanzibar.
Your journey starts in Arusha, known as the safari capital of Tanzania, before heading to the stunning village of Materuni on the slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro. Nestled among lush coffee plantations and tropical rainforest, Materuni offers the perfect introduction to Tanzania’s rich cultural heritage. Go on a scenic walk to the spectacular Materuni Waterfalls, and get a taste of Chagga traditions as you take part in an authentic coffee-making experience passed down through generations.
Next up is Arusha National Park, one of Tanzania’s most scenic and underrated national parks. Arusha National Park is the only safari destination in the country where you have the opportunity to enjoy a guided walking safari and experience Africa’s wildlife from a completely different perspective. You will be accompanied by an armed ranger and walk through beautiful landscapes where you will encounter giraffes, zebras, buffaloes, warthogs, antelopes and a wonderful variety of birdlife. Also in the park are the picturesque Momella Lakes, Mount Meru and spectacular views of Mount Kilimanjaro on clear days.
Leaving the northern highlands, travel through dramatic Rift Valley scenery to the remote wilderness of Lake Natron. Over one of Tanzania’s most unusual natural wonders, Lake Natron, towers Ol Doinyo Lengai, Africa’s only active carbonatite volcano. Explore the spectacular Ngare Sero Waterfalls, a vibrant soda lake that is one of the world’s most important breeding sites for lesser flamingos, and experience the rich traditions of the Maasai people, who have lived in harmony with this breathtaking landscape for centuries.
Travel from Lake Natron to the world-famous Serengeti National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Africa’s most famous wildlife destinations. Experience three unforgettable days exploring the endless plains to witness the Serengeti’s extraordinary biodiversity, searching for lions, leopards, elephants, cheetahs, giraffes, buffaloes, zebras, wildebeests, hyenas, hippos, crocodiles, and countless other wildlife species. Depending on the season, you may witness the spectacular Great Migration when millions of wildebeest and zebras cross the Serengeti ecosystem in search of new grazing, one of the greatest natural spectacles on Earth.
Your safari continues to the magnificent Ngorongoro Crater, the world’s largest intact volcanic caldera and one of Africa’s best wildlife destinations. The crater is home to one of the highest concentrations of wildlife on the continent and offers exceptional opportunities to see the legendary Big Five in a single game drive, against a stunning backdrop. Continue your cultural experience with a visit to the fascinating Hadzabe Tribe, one of the last remaining hunter-gatherer tribes in Africa. Meet the Datoga Tribe nearby, renowned for their exceptional blacksmithing skills and traditional way of life. Finish your safari with an exciting game drive through Tarangire National Park, known for its ancient baobab trees, seasonal river and large elephant population.
The final chapter of your journey brings you to the magical island of Zanzibar, where you will enjoy three full days of tropical relaxation in the beautiful village of Nungwi. Unwind on powder-white beaches, swim in the warm turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean, snorkel vivid reefs of coral, enjoy sunset dhow cruises, discover colourful marine life or simply relax under the swaying palms with the sound of the ocean as your soundtrack. Whether you’re celebrating a honeymoon, family holiday, anniversary or your dream African adventure, this 16-day Tanzania Safari & Zanzibar Beach Holiday offers the perfect mix of wildlife, culture, adventure and relaxation to create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.
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. Travel under the majestic slopes of Mount Meru where you'll be introduced to the stunning landscapes and warm hospitality of Tanzania. You will then have the rest of the day to relax in your lodge, recover from your journey or just enjoy the peaceful surroundings before your guide gives you a short safari briefing in preparation for the unforgettable adventure that awaits you.
Meals: Not Included
Comfort Accommodation: Forest Hill Hotel
Premium Accommodation: Ngaresero Lodge
After breakfast, drive to the beautiful village of Materuni on the lush foothills of Mount Kilimanjaro. Accompanied by a local guide, walk through coffee plantations and tropical rainforest to the spectacular Materuni Waterfalls, where crystal-clear water cascades into a natural pool surrounded by spectacular scenery. Then you will visit a local Chagga family to see how the traditional coffee making process is carried out. You will learn how coffee is grown, roasted and prepared and then enjoy a cup of freshly brewed coffee. This authentic cultural experience provides an interesting insight into local traditions before returning to Arusha for a relaxing evening.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Comfort Accommodation: Forest Hill Hotel
Premium Accommodation: Ngaresero Lodge
Take a short drive to the stunning Arusha National Park, one of Tanzania’s most scenic and diverse wildlife destinations. Enjoy an exciting game drive through lush forests, open grasslands and the picturesque Momella Lakes searching for giraffes, buffaloes, zebras, warthogs, colobus monkeys, flamingos and many species of birds. Later, take a completely different look at the park on a guided walking safari with an armed ranger – a rare opportunity to see wildlife on foot and learn about the park’s unique ecosystem. Back to Arusha in the afternoon after an unforgettable day in nature’s arms.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Comfort Accommodation: Forest Hill Hotel
Premium Accommodation: Ngaresero Lodge
After breakfast, depart Arusha and drive through the spectacular scenery of the Great Rift Valley to the remote wilderness of Lake Natron. Enjoy spectacular views of Maasai villages, volcanic mountains and endless open plains en route before arriving beneath the towering Ol Doinyo Lengai, Africa’s only active carbonatite volcano. Afternoon walk to the beautiful Ngare Sero Waterfalls, tucked away in a narrow rocky gorge where cool crystal-clear water offers the perfect place to relax after your travel. End your day in one of Tanzania’s most unique and dramatic landscapes.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Comfort Accommodation: African Safari Lake Natron
Premium Accommodation: Ngare Sero – Lake Natron Camp
Discover the stunning beauty of the Lake Natron, one of the most unique natural wonders of East Africa. Learn about the unique ecosystem and geological history of the striking soda lake, which is home to thousands of lesser flamingos during the breeding season. Visit local Maasai communities to learn about their rich traditions, colourful culture and warm hospitality, then continue exploring the region’s volcanic landscapes that make it unlike anywhere else in Tanzania. At every turn Lake Natron offers spectacular scenery and an unforgettable mix of nature, culture and adventure.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Comfort Accommodation: African Safari Lake Natron
Premium Accommodation: Ngare Sero – Lake Natron Camp
After breakfast proceed to the legendary Serengeti National Park passing through breath-taking landscapes before entering one of Africa’s greatest wildlife destinations. You are immediately on safari as you head across the endless plains searching for lions, elephants, giraffes, buffaloes, zebras, wildebeest, cheetahs, leopards and many more species that call the Serengeti home. Each game drive offers the possibility of new unforgettable wildlife sightings, while your experienced guide shares fascinating insights into this remarkable ecosystem. Arriving at your lodge in the evening, enjoy the golden African sunset as it casts its glow across the endless plains before you.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Comfort Accommodation: Serenity Camps and Lodges
Premium Accommodation: Serengeti Luxury Retreat
Wake up to the unforgettable sounds of the African wilderness and spend a whole day exploring the magnificent 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 might be lucky enough to witness the Great Migration as vast herds move across the Serengeti ecosystem. Stop for lunch picnic-style in the middle of the park and then continue with your afternoon game drive and return to your lodge as the African sun sets 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. Follow the migration of the wildlife and the seasonal activity in various parts of the Serengeti giving you the opportunity to witness incredible predator action and fascinating animal behaviour. Look out for species that you might not have seen on previous game drives and discover secret valleys, rocky kopjes, seasonal rivers and vast open grasslands. There is never a dull moment and every moment is another chance for amazing photography and memories that will last a lifetime, before returning to your lodge for another peaceful evening amongst the sights and sounds of the African wilderness.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Comfort Accommodation: Serenity Camps and Lodges
Premium Accommodation: Serengeti Luxury Retreat
Following an early breakfast, enjoy your final wildlife sightings as you leave the Serengeti and journey towards the magnificent Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Descend over 600 metres into the breathtaking Ngorongoro Crater, one of Africa's most remarkable wildlife destinations and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Spend the day searching for the legendary Big Five while encountering hippos, zebras, wildebeests, flamingos, hyenas, gazelles, and countless other species that thrive within this extraordinary ecosystem. After a scenic picnic lunch on the crater floor, ascend the crater walls and continue to the charming town of Karatu for a relaxing evening.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Comfort Accommodation: Marera Valley Lodge
Premium Accommodation: Kitela Lodge
After breakfast, drive to the remote shores of Lake Eyasi for a remarkable cultural experience with the Hadzabe Tribe, one of the last remaining hunter-gatherer communities in Africa. Discover their traditional hunting methods, survival skills and unique way of life before moving on to visit the neighbouring Datoga Tribe, famous for their outstanding blacksmithing skills and rich pastoral heritage. After this interesting cultural encounter, proceed to Tarangire National Park for an afternoon game drive through the landscape dotted with ancient baobab trees in search for elephants, lions, giraffe, zebras, buffaloes and abundant birdlife before heading to your lodge.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Comfort Accommodation: Ang'ata Tarangire Camp
Premium Accommodation: Acacia Tarangire Luxury Camp
Enjoy a final morning game drive in Tarangire National Park when the animals are most active and the temperatures are cooler. Early in the morning, watch elephant families gather along the Tarangire River before leaving the park, watching for predators and other wildlife. Later, drive back to Arusha via the fertile highlands and colourful villages of northern Tanzania. Arrive in the afternoon and have time to relax at your hotel or enjoy the lively atmosphere of Tanzania’s safari capital before continuing your journey to Zanzibar the following day.
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Comfort Accommodation: Forest Hill Hotel
Premium Accommodation: Ngaresero Lodge
After breakfast, transfer to airport for your scheduled domestic flight to the beautiful island of Zanzibar You will be met on arrival and taken to the picture perfect village of Nungwi on the northern coast of the island, famous for its powder white beaches and crystal clear turquoise waters. Rest of the day at leisure. Relax at your beach front resort and enjoy the breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean, take a refreshing swim or simply unwind beneath swaying palm trees embracing the peaceful atmosphere of this tropical paradise.
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Comfort Accommodation: The Z Hotel Zanzibar
Premium Accommodation: Zuri Zanzibar
Enjoy three days in the tropical paradise of Nungwi at your own pace, and create three unforgettable days. You can relax on white-sand beaches, swim in the warm turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean, or just lie back and enjoy the sunshine and breathtaking coastal views. For the adventurous guest, there is a choice of optional activities including snorkelling, scuba diving, traditional sunset dhow cruises, jet skiing, paddleboarding, kayaking, deep-sea fishing and excursions to the world-renowned Mnemba Atoll Marine Reserve. You can also visit the Nungwi Turtle Aquarium, tour the traditional fishing village, indulge in a rejuvenating spa treatment or enjoy freshly prepared seafood while watching breathtaking sunsets over the Indian Ocean.
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Comfort Accommodation: The Z Hotel Zanzibar
Premium Accommodation: Zuri Zanzibar
After breakfast, enjoy your final morning in the tropical paradise of Zanzibar before checking out of your resort. Depending on your international flight schedule, take one last walk along the beautiful beach, relax by the ocean, or shop for locally made souvenirs before your transfer to Zanzibar International Airport. As your unforgettable Tanzanian adventure comes to an end, depart with lifelong memories of extraordinary wildlife encounters, authentic cultural experiences, breathtaking landscapes, and the idyllic beaches of Zanzibar. We look forward to welcoming you back to explore the heart of Africa once again.
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.