11 Days Tanzania Big Five Wildlife Safari and Zanzibar Beach

Planning a combined safari and beach escape in Tanzania? This 11-day adventure offers a balanced mix of iconic wildlife safaris, cultural experiences, and relaxing beach days. While the trip is quite comprehensive, it’s especially appealing for travelers eager to see the Big Five, explore stunning landscapes, and unwind on pristine Indian Ocean beaches.

What we love about this tour:

• The chance to see the Big Five in their natural habitat, especially in renowned parks like the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater.
• Visiting Stone Town offers an authentic glimpse into Zanzibar’s history and local life.
• The combination of safari days with beach relaxation provides a well-rounded experience.

A possible consideration is the long travel days between parks and to Zanzibar, which might be tiring for some. Still, the trip’s value for wildlife lovers and beach enthusiasts makes it worth it.

This tour suits those who want a comprehensive Tanzanian experience, blending wildlife photography, cultural discovery, and downtime by the sea.

Key Points

• Wildlife at its best: Game drives in Serengeti, Ngorongoro, and Tarangire are highlights for spotting the Big Five.
• Cultural insights: Stone Town tour provides an authentic look at Zanzibar’s history, including the slave market.
• Beach paradise: Relax at beachfront hotels in Nungwi and Pongwe, with opportunities for snorkeling and dolphin spotting.
• All-inclusive convenience: The package covers national park fees, private safari vehicles, and flights between Arusha and Zanzibar.
• Flexible booking: Keep plans open with a pay-later option and the ability to cancel up to 24 hours in advance.
• Authentic experiences: Visits to spice farms, local markets, and the chance to see dolphins make this trip more than just a safari.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the 11-Day Tanzanian Safari and Zanzibar Experience

Starting Point: Arriving in Tanzania

Your journey begins at Kilimanjaro International Airport, where you are welcomed and transferred to your hotel in Arusha. This initial day offers a buffer to adjust, relax, and prepare for the adventure ahead. The accommodation choice (though not specified) likely balances comfort with accessibility, setting a welcoming tone for the days to come.

Day 2: From Arusha to Tarangire National Park

Driving to Tarangire, known for its large herds of elephants and iconic baobab trees, you’ll start your safari with your first game drives. The Sangaiwe tented camp offers stunning views and a chance to connect with nature in a tented setting—something many travelers find both exciting and authentic.

Travel tip: We loved the way Tarangire’s landscape creates a distinctly different atmosphere from the plains of Serengeti. Expect to see large groups of elephants, giraffes, and perhaps some predators lurking nearby.

Day 3: Into the Heart of the Serengeti

Heading to the Serengeti, you’ll enjoy a scenic drive and a chance to settle into your tented camp, Osinon or similar. The afternoon game drive gives travelers the opportunity to witness the vast plains teeming with wildlife, often feeling like stepping into a wildlife documentary.

Unique detail: The Serengeti is famed for its migration, which can sometimes surround you during your game drives—an experience that might feel surreal.

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Days 4-5: Full Days in the Serengeti

Two full days here mean lots of time for game drives, increasing your chances of seeing predators like lions, cheetahs, and hyenas. Visitors often mention watching the Hippo pool, a gathering spot for these large mammals, and the thrill of spotting a pride of lions resting after a hunt.

According to reviews, guides like “Adam” enhance the experience, sharing insightful facts and pointing out animals you might miss on your own. The wide-open landscapes, combined with the chance to witness the Great Migration, make these days unforgettable.

Day 6: From Serengeti to Ngorongoro Crater

Early morning drives lead you to the Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Descending into the crater offers a chance to see an abundance of wildlife, including elephants, rhinos, and flamingos, in a contained ecosystem that’s approximately 12 miles wide.

Key insight: The crater’s unique terrain means different animals gather in predictable spots, making game viewing more predictable and rewarding.

Day 7: Lake Manyara and Back to Arusha

A short drive to Lake Manyara National Park introduces you to a different habitat, famous for its tree-climbing lions and flamingos. The late afternoon transfer back to Arusha gives an opportunity to reflect on the incredible wildlife you’ve seen.

Days 8-11: Beach Days in Zanzibar

Day 8 marks the transition from safari to beach bliss, arriving in Zanzibar and checking into Blue Bay Beach Resort & Spa. The relaxed pace begins here, with options to unwind, explore, or indulge.

Day 9: A spice farm tour is included, offering a sensory overload of smells and tastes, plus a walk through aromatic plantations. The Stone Town tour reveals Zanzibar’s mix of history, culture, and architecture, including visits to the slave market and bustling markets.

Day 10: The Safari Blue tour in Fumba village is a highlight: cruising to sandbanks, snorkeling to see marine life, and enjoying a seafood lunch. Many reviews highlight dolphin sightings and the chance to swim in crystal-clear waters.

Departure Day: Transfers to Zanzibar Airport complete your trip, with optional connections to Nairobi if needed.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

This itinerary packs a lot into 11 days, combining prime wildlife habitats with cultural and coastal experiences. The included private 4×4 safari jeeps with pop-up roofs ensure excellent game-viewing opportunities, and the national park fees are covered, simplifying budgeting.

The flight from Arusha to Zanzibar is a smart addition, saving travel time and ensuring smooth transitions. While the trip might seem expensive at $7,995, it reflects the comprehensive nature, accommodations, and guided experiences.

What Makes the Experience Stand Out?

• The chance to see the Big Five—a dream for many wildlife enthusiasts—especially in the Serengeti and Ngorongoro’s rich ecosystems.
• Visiting Stone Town offers not just sightseeing but a chance to walk through history, with lively markets and narrow streets.
• The beach portion provides a perfect wind-down, with excellent options for snorkeling, dolphin spotting, and relaxing in a beachfront setting.
• The local guides and staff contribute significantly to the experience, with reviews praising their knowledge and friendliness.

Possible Drawbacks

Travel days between parks and from safari to Zanzibar can be long, sometimes involving early mornings or transfers that might feel rushed. Also, the price point could be a barrier for some travelers, though the inclusions and quality of experience justify it for many.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This trip is perfect for wildlife lovers eager to tick off the Big Five while also enjoying some of the best beaches in Africa. It suits those who value guided experiences, cultural insights, and seamless logistics. Travelers looking for a comprehensive, all-in-one Tanzanian adventure will find this tour offers good value.

If you’re after a more relaxed pace or on a tighter budget, some might prefer to book separate parts of the trip—like a safari and beach holiday—but for those wanting convenience and expert guidance, this package hits the mark.

FAQs

Is transportation included for the safari?
Yes, you’ll travel in a private 4×4 safari jeep with a pop-up roof, ideal for game viewing and photography.

Are park entry fees included?
Absolutely, all national park fees are covered, so there are no hidden costs on top of the trip price.

How are the accommodations described?
They are typically tented camps or similar lodges offering good views and authentic safari atmospheres. The beach hotels are beachfront resorts, providing a relaxed and comfortable setting.

Is there a flight from Arusha to Zanzibar?
Yes, the package includes the flight from Arusha to Zanzibar, making the transfer quick and straightforward.

Can I cancel or change my booking?
Yes, bookings can be canceled up to 24 hours prior for a full refund, and you can opt to pay later, providing flexibility.

What should I pack?
Bring comfortable shoes, a hat, a camera, sunscreen, and water. Remember, smoking and plastic bottles are not allowed on the tour.

Final Thoughts

This 11-day Tanzania safari combined with Zanzibar beaches offers a well-rounded adventure packed with wildlife encounters, cultural insights, and relaxing coastal moments. The inclusion of top parks like Serengeti and Ngorongoro guarantees awe-inspiring wildlife sightings, while Zanzibar’s beaches and spice farms broaden the experience beyond safaris.

While the trip requires a fair amount of travel and can be on the pricier side, the quality of guides, accommodations, and curated experiences make it a worthwhile investment for those eager to see one of Africa’s most iconic landscapes.

It’s especially suited for travelers who want a seamless, guided experience that covers the essentials—Big Five, local culture, and beach time—without the hassle of planning every detail themselves. If capturing stunning wildlife photos and unwinding by the ocean sound ideal, this tour might just be your perfect Tanzanian adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: