12 days Luxury Tanzania Honeymoon Safari and Zanzibar

Traveling to Tanzania for a honeymoon is a bold choice — and with a tour like Lion King Adventures’ 12-day luxury safari and Zanzibar trip, you’re promised a blend of extraordinary wildlife encounters and breathtaking beaches. We haven’t personally taken this exact trip but have scoured reviews and details to give you a balanced, honest perspective on what makes this experience stand out, and what to keep in mind.

What we love about this tour is how personalized the experience seems, from the swift and responsive communication to the carefully curated accommodations. The guides, especially Fredy Elias and Gilbert, earn high praise for their knowledge, patience, and ability to spot animals that seem almost invisible to the untrained eye. The itinerary itself offers a rich mix of game drives, cultural insights, and relaxing beach days — something that appeals to both adventure seekers and those craving downtime.

One consideration is the price point of $7,265 per person, which is significant, but in the context of luxury, all-inclusive safaris, and Zanzibar’s high-end accommodations, many find it well worth the cost. Still, travelers should be prepared for the non-refundable policy, which underscores the importance of firm planning and commitment.

This experience is best suited for couples who want a seamless blend of wildlife adventure and beach relaxation without the hassle of organizing every detail themselves. It’s ideal for those celebrating a special occasion or simply looking to splurge on a once-in-a-lifetime trip.

Key Points

• High praise for guides like Gilbert and Fredy, who are celebrated for their knowledge and friendly approach
• Luxury accommodations offer both comfort and style, especially in iconic locations like Ngorongoro and Zanzibar
• Well-organized itinerary covers Tanzania’s top parks and a relaxing Zanzibar beach stay
• Customizable experiences and additional tours like spice farms or Stone Town excursions are available
• The price reflects quality, including park fees, guided tours, and private transfers
• Non-refundable policy means careful planning is a must

The Experience: What You Can Expect

Starting in Arusha: Gateway to Adventure

Your journey kicks off in Arusha, Tanzania’s safari hub. Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by a friendly Lion King Adventures representative. The initial night allows for some relaxation or a quick exploration of Arusha’s lively markets and local vibe. This start is perfect for acclimating and preparing yourself for the adventures ahead. Reviewers mention that the team is exceptionally responsive from the start, tailoring your experience to your preferences.

Tarangire National Park: Elephant Extravaganza

Early the next morning, you’ll venture into Tarangire, renowned for its large herds of elephants and the iconic Tarangire River. The drive takes about two and a half hours, giving you a chance to enjoy the scenic countryside. Expect to see elephants congregating by the river, giraffes nibbling on acacia trees, and possibly predators like lions and leopards lurking nearby.

Travelers highlight the excellent guiding here, with Fredy Elias being notably praised for his animal spotting skills. The dense vegetation and water sources make Tarangire a hotspot for wildlife in the dry season. The park’s landscape, with its mixture of grassy plains and lush groundwater forests, creates diverse photo opportunities.

Lake Manyara: Birdlife and Primates

Your next stop is Lake Manyara National Park, a small but remarkably diverse park. The soda lake, which covers 70% of its surface, hosts thousands of flamingoes and over 500 bird species, making it perfect for birdwatchers. The park’s varied terrains also support monkeys, giraffes, zebra, wildebeest, and elephants.

Guests often mention how the park’s landscape — from baobab-studded cliffs to primate-filled woodlands — makes for a dynamic safari. They also appreciate the chance to see lions lounging in the trees, a signature sight here. The game drive lasts about eight hours, giving plenty of time for photos and quiet wildlife watching.

Serengeti: The Icon of African Wilderness

The route then takes you through Ngorongoro Conservation Area, where the iconic Ngorongoro Crater awaits. The crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a natural amphitheater teeming with wildlife. With about 25,000 animals, including the Big Five, it’s a prime game-viewing spot.

Travelers rave about the density of animals in the crater, often citing sightings of lions, rhinos, elephants, and more within minutes of descending. Gilbert, the guide, is frequently praised for his ability to locate elusive animals and for safety. The landscape varies from lush grassy plains to rocky outcrops, making it a photographer’s dream.

Following this, you’ll head into Serengeti National Park — the crown jewel of East African safaris. Its sprawling plains host the renowned Great Migration (timing depending), as well as resident predators that keep the ecosystem lively. Expect to see zebra herds, wildebeest, impala, and predators like lions and cheetahs. The park’s vastness means you’ll experience a sense of being truly alone in the wild.

Full Day Game Drive in Serengeti

One of the highlights of this tour is a full day dedicated to game drives. Reviewers describe these days as exhilarating, with Gilbert and other guides expertly navigating the terrain. The chance to watch lions stalking prey or cheetahs sprint across the plains is incredible.

The tour emphasizes the importance of knowledgeable guides, and Gilbert’s reputation for spotting animals is a recurring theme. Expect comfortable 4×4 vehicles, ample time for photography, and plenty of stories about animal behavior.

Ngorongoro Crater: The Big Five in a Day

On day six, you’ll return to the Ngorongoro Crater, often called the “Africa’s Garden of Eden.” Descending into the crater, you’ll find a dense concentration of wildlife — including lions, elephants, buffalo, and rhino — making it arguably the best game-viewing spot in Tanzania.

Guests note that being able to see the Big Five here in one location is a highlight. The crater’s dense animal populations and stunning scenery make it a must-see. The descent and ascent are carefully timed, giving you a full day of wildlife encounters, with lunch at a scenic picnic spot overlooking the crater.

Transition to Zanzibar: Relaxation and Beach Bliss

Stone Town: A Cultural First

After multiple days of safari adventure, you’ll fly to Zanzibar’s Stone Town. The first night there offers a gentle introduction to the island’s history and architecture, with options for guided tours, spice farm visits, or Prison Island excursions. Guests say the city’s maze-like streets, old buildings, and vibrant markets create a unique atmosphere to unwind before beach days.

Nungwi: The Beach Paradise

The next day, you’ll transfer to Nungwi, one of Zanzibar’s most popular beach destinations. Here, the focus shifts from wildlife to relaxation, with white sandy beaches and clear blue waters. Many reviewers mention how well-organized the transfer is, and how the hotel staff can arrange a variety of water sports or island trips.

Water activities are plentiful, including scuba diving, snorkeling, kite surfing, and fishing, often with professional PADI schools on-site. The local spice farms offer a fragrant glimpse into Zanzibar’s history as the “Spice Island,” with guided tours available to enhance your experience.

Relaxing Days and Optional Excursions

Over the next few days, guests enjoy lounging on the beach, swimming, or exploring nearby islands. Some take part in guided tours, while others simply savor the tranquility. The reviews frequently mention how the accommodations are luxurious yet comfortable, providing a true retreat after the thrills of safari.

Practical Details & Final Thoughts

Transportation within the tour is private, including hotel pickups and drop-offs, which means you won’t be dealing with large crowds or unreliable shuttles. The entire trip is designed for a small, private group, ensuring personalized attention and a flexible experience.

The cost of $7,265 per person covers all major park fees, guiding, most meals, and accommodations. The review consensus is that this price offers excellent value given the level of comfort, expert guiding, and exclusive access to prime wildlife locations.

One key point to remember is the non-refundable policy. This means travelers should be confident about their plans before booking, as changes or cancellations aren’t accommodated.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This safari and Zanzibar combo suits couples celebrating special occasions or those who want a high-end, hassle-free experience. It’s perfect if you’re seeking expert guides, luxurious lodges, and a well-paced itinerary with both adventure and relaxation. It’s also ideal for travelers who don’t want to worry about logistics, as everything — from park entries to transfers — is handled.

If you’re on a budget or prefer a more flexible, DIY approach, this might not be the best fit. But for those craving a curated, all-inclusive luxury experience in Tanzania, this tour hits many of the right notes.

FAQs

How many parks are visited during this safari?
You’ll visit Tarangire, Lake Manyara, Serengeti, and Ngorongoro Crater, covering Tanzania’s most iconic wildlife areas.

Is the safari suitable for first-time visitors?
Absolutely. The guides are experienced and friendly, making it easy for newcomers to enjoy the experience without feeling overwhelmed.

What kind of vehicle is used for game drives?
Guests typically travel in private, comfortable 4×4 vehicles, ideal for wildlife viewing and photography.

Are meals included?
Yes, most meals are included during the safari days, plus breakfast, lunch, and dinner in Zanzibar. The tour covers all park fees and guides.

Can the itinerary be customized?
While the tour is designed as a set itinerary, reviews suggest some flexibility, especially with optional activities like Stone Town tours or spice farm visits.

What is the accommodation like?
Expect high-quality lodges and hotels, such as the Gran Melia in Arusha, with a focus on comfort, style, and authentic local touches.

How is transportation between locations handled?
Transfers are private and arranged by Lion King Adventures, including flights between Arusha and Zanzibar, making logistics seamless.

Is there an option to extend or add activities?
Yes, additional excursions like Prison Island or Jozani Forest can typically be organized at your hotel.

Is this tour suitable for children or families?
The tour is primarily designed for couples and adults. It’s best for those comfortable with long game drives and a flexible schedule.

What is the best time of year to book this trip?
While not specified, Tanzania’s dry season (June to October) is generally ideal for game viewing, and the Zanzibar beaches are lovely year-round.

Final Words

For couples seeking a luxury, all-inclusive safari combined with relaxing beach days, this tour from Lion King Adventures offers a compelling package. From the expert guides and high-end lodgings to the chance to see Africa’s most iconic animals and unwind on Zanzibar’s pristine beaches, it covers all the bases.

Expect a seamless experience, personalized service, and memories that will last a lifetime. Whether you’re celebrating a special milestone or simply want a hassle-free adventure, this trip balances adventure and leisure with sophistication and style.

If you’re ready to explore Tanzania’s wild side and then unwind in paradise, this safari and Zanzibar tour could be your perfect escape.