Private 13 Days Exposure Africa Royal Safari Package

Exploring the 13 Days Exposure Africa Royal Safari Package

When it comes to African safari adventures, this 13-day private tour offers a well-rounded blend of wildlife encounters, scenic landscapes, and relaxing beach time. While I haven’t personally taken this exact trip, it’s clear from reviews and the detailed itinerary that it promises an experience packed with memorable moments, expert guides, and authentic Tanzanian culture.

What we love most about this tour is how it balances thrilling game drives in famous parks like Serengeti and Ngorongoro, with the breathtaking scenery of Lake Manyara and Tarangire. Plus, the seamless transition to Zanzibar’s pristine beaches means you get both adventure and relaxation. One thing to consider is the fixed itinerary—some travelers might prefer more flexibility, especially in Zanzibar where you’ll be spending several days relaxing. If you’re after a comprehensive safari combined with a beach escape, this package could be just what you need.

This tour is best suited for active travelers who enjoy wildlife photography, cultural insights, and some downtime on the beach. It’s ideal if you want a private experience with knowledgeable guides who can share their expertise about the parks and local culture.

Key Points

Wildlife Abundance: Experience the diverse animals of Tarangire, Lake Manyara, Ngorongoro, and Serengeti with expert guides.
Authentic Safari Experience: Multiple game drives in renowned parks offer great chances to see lions, elephants, leopards, and cheetahs.
Comfortable Accommodation: Stay at well-rated lodges and camps, including MPINGO LODGE and DUNIA CAMP, with opportunities for authentic local hospitality.
Cultural and Natural Highlights: Visits to Ngorongoro Crater and the Maasai Steppe provide cultural insights and scenic beauty.
Seamless Travel Flow: The itinerary moves smoothly from game drives to Zanzibar’s beaches, maximizing your adventure and relaxation time.
Value for Money: Though $7,772 per person may seem steep, the inclusion of private guides, multiple parks, and Zanzibar stay offers solid value for a comprehensive, all-in-one experience.

Detailed Review of the 13-Day Safari and Zanzibar Experience

Starting Point: Arusha and the First Day

Your journey kicks off in Arusha, a vibrant hub often called the safari gateway. Arriving at Kilimanjaro Airport, you’ll quickly go through immigration formalities and meet your guide. The short drive to Coffee Lodge sets a relaxed tone, giving you a taste of local hospitality and scenic beauty. The initial night is about settling in and preparing mentally for the adventure ahead.

Days 2-3: Tarangire National Park

The first safari stops are in Tarangire, renowned for its large elephant herds and iconic baobab trees. Expect to be captivated by elephants wallowing at the Tarangire River—an especially memorable sight for many travelers, as one reviewer noted, “The big group of elephants make wallowing around the river and makes a good moment for you.” The guides are praised for their knowledge, often sharing insights about animal behavior and park ecology, making each game drive both exciting and educational.

On the second day, you’ll enjoy another full day in Tarangire, focusing on wildlife sightings like lions, leopards, cheetahs, giraffes, and numerous antelopes. The late afternoon drive allows you to catch the animals during their most active hours. The lodges, including MPINGO, are comfortable, providing a good balance of rustic charm and modern amenities.

Days 4-5: Lake Manyara and Ngorongoro Crater

Next up is Lake Manyara National Park, famous for its tree-climbing lions and lush forests. The park offers not just animal sightings but also beautiful scenery, which makes for great photo opportunities. The park’s varied habitats mean you’ll see zebras, wildebeest, buffalo, and the possibility of spotting lions resting in the trees—a highlight for many.

Following this, the safari continues to Ngorongoro Conservation Area where the highlight is the Ngorongoro Crater. The crater’s caldera is a natural amphitheater filled with wildlife—an untouched scene with jaw-dropping views. During the game drive, you’ll encounter a variety of animals in their natural habitat, with the chance to see predator-prey interactions up close. One reviewer described it as “the beauty of the caldera decorated by different species of animals,” which captures the essence of this area.

Days 6-8: Serengeti National Park

The Serengeti needs little introduction—it’s often called the crown jewel of Tanzania safaris. The drive there is part of the adventure, with sightings along the way. Once at Serengeti DUNIA CAMP, you’re treated to the vast plains and incredible animal concentrations.

Over these days, you’ll enjoy full-day game drives, tracking lions, leopards, cheetahs, elephants, buffalo, and countless antelopes. The park’s expansive landscape means you’ll see animals across different terrains, from kopjes to open plains. One reviewer highlighted the park’s unique appeal: “Serengeti is famous for migrations in December, when the southern and northern parts host thousands of animals.” Even outside migration season, the sheer number of animals, especially lions on kopjes and cheetahs in the grasslands, makes for spectacular wildlife viewing.

Days 9-13: Zanzibar Beach Relaxation

After your safari adventures, you’ll fly from Seronera airstrip to Zanzibar, where the focus shifts to unwinding. The stay at Grand Melia offers all-inclusive comfort, with pristine beaches and warm Indian Ocean waters. The three days here are perfect for relaxing, water activities, or exploring local culture if you wish.

Many travelers find this contrast refreshing—after days of early mornings and game drives, lounging on Zanzibar’s beaches feels like a well-earned reward. The tours include no additional charges for meals, making it easy to unwind guilt-free.

Transportation, Guides, and Overall Value

Private transportation throughout the tour ensures a smooth, personalized experience. The guides are praised for their vast knowledge, especially about the parks’ ecosystems and wildlife behaviors, which enriches every game drive. Since this is a private tour, your group benefits from undivided attention, tailored game drives, and flexible scheduling.

The cost of $7,772 per person covers accommodation, all taxes, and most meals. While it appears substantial, the inclusion of multiple national parks, expert guides, domestic flights, and the Zanzibar stay makes it a comprehensive package. The tour’s value lies in the convenience and quality of experience it offers to travelers who want to avoid logistical headaches and focus on the adventure.

Accommodation and Food

Staying at well-rated lodges like MPINGO and the Dunia Camp provides a comfortable base with authentic safari camp experiences. The Zanzibar segment offers luxury with all-inclusive meals, meaning you can focus on soaking up the sun and the sea.

Schedule and Pacing

The itinerary is well-paced, giving ample time for game drives, with early mornings and late evenings when animals are most active. The days in Zanzibar are relaxed, allowing travelers to enjoy the beaches or explore local markets at leisure.

Who is This Tour Best For?

This safari suits those who want a comprehensive, private experience combining Tanzania’s top wildlife parks with a beach holiday. It’s ideal for wildlife enthusiasts, photographers, and couples or families seeking a mix of adventure and relaxation. If you prefer flexible schedules or have specific interests like hot air ballooning (not included here but available from other providers), you might want to customize your trip.

The Sum Up

The 13 Days Exposure Africa Royal Safari Package offers a thoughtfully crafted blend of wilderness, culture, and coastal bliss. With expert guides, diverse wildlife, and comfortable lodges, it promises a memorable and hassle-free adventure. The Zanzibar beaches provide a perfect wind-down after days of game viewing, making this a well-rounded trip for those wanting the full African experience.

While the price is on the higher side, the inclusions—private safaris, domestic flights, and luxury accommodations—offer solid value for a comprehensive, all-in-one package. It’s best suited for travelers eager to see Tanzania’s iconic parks without the stress of planning every detail, and who also crave some time relaxing on Zanzibar’s world-famous beaches.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
All fees and taxes are included, along with accommodation, most meals, and private transportation during the safari. Domestic flights to Zanzibar are part of the package.

How far in advance should I book?
The tour is typically booked around 158 days ahead, indicating high demand and the need to secure your spot early.

Is this tour suitable for families or only couples?
Since it’s a private tour designed for your group, it works well for families, couples, or friends traveling together who enjoy active wildlife viewing and relaxing beach days.

What kind of guides will I have?
Guides are knowledgeable about the parks’ ecosystems and wildlife, providing insights to enrich your experience. The reviews highlight that guides know a lot about both the animals and local culture.

Are the accommodations comfortable?
Yes, the lodges and camps like MPINGO Lodge and Dunia Camp are well-rated, offering a good mix of rustic charm and comfort, along with authentic safari ambiance.

Can I customize the itinerary?
This particular package appears fixed, but being a private tour, there’s potential for some flexibility—discuss with your provider if you want to add activities like hot air ballooning or extend your beach stay.

What should I pack for this trip?
Bring lightweight clothing for safaris and evenings, good binoculars, sun protection, and a camera. Evenings can be cool, especially in the highlands.

How does the Zanzibar portion work?
You’ll fly from Serengeti to Zanzibar, where you’ll stay at a luxury beach resort for relaxation, enjoying all-inclusive meals and beach activities.

What’s the best time of year for this trip?
While specific dates aren’t mentioned, the tour’s focus on migration and wildlife suggests that visiting during the dry season (generally June to October or December to March) would optimize wildlife sightings and weather.

This 13-day adventure offers an immersive Tanzanian safari experience with a perfect touch of island tranquility, making it a worthwhile choice for travelers seeking a full-spectrum African holiday.