Best Safari and Zanzibar 10-Days Excursions

This comprehensive tour offers an exciting blend of wildlife safaris, cultural exploration, and beach relaxation in Tanzania. While I haven’t personally taken this trip, reviews from past travelers highlight its exceptional balance of adventure and leisure, making it a compelling choice for those craving authentic African experiences.

What truly stands out are the expert guides, the breathtaking wildlife sightings, and the opportunity to relax on Zanzibar’s world-famous beaches. A possible drawback could be the long travel days—some stretches between parks are quite lengthy, so patience is key. This tour suits families, friends, honeymooners, and even students eager for a well-rounded African safari combined with a tropical island escape.

Key Points

• Authentic wildlife encounters with the Big Five and more, guided by knowledgeable local experts.
• Cultural insights through visits to Maasai markets and local communities.
• Spectacular scenery, from savannahs and acacia trees to the iconic Serengeti plains.
• Relaxing beach time in Zanzibar with plenty of water activities and stunning white sands.
• Flexible itinerary that can be customized to fit your preferences.
• Excellent value for a 10-day trip that includes both safaris and beach leisure.

An In-Depth Look at the 10-Day Tanzania Safari & Zanzibar Tour

Starting in Arusha: The Gateway to Adventure

The journey kicks off in Arusha, often called the safari capital of Tanzania. Travelers are warmly welcomed by guides holding name signs, setting the tone for a friendly, personalized experience. The one-hour drive to your hotel provides a first glimpse of the lush landscape and bustling local markets.

In Arusha, you’ll get a taste of local culture with visits to the vibrant Maasai market and an overview of the town’s arts and crafts scene, including the rare Tanzanite gemstone. As one reviewer put it, the city has a mixture of history, culture, and lively markets that are worth exploring before heading into the wilderness.

Day 3: Safari at Tarangire National Park

The first game drive takes you to Tarangire National Park, renowned for its massive herds of elephants, especially during the dry season. The landscape, dotted with giant baobabs and acacia trees, offers a stunning backdrop for wildlife viewing.

Your picnic lunch in the park means you’ll be ready to spot buffalo, zebra, wildebeest, lions, and giraffes, with over 550 bird species fluttering around the swampy areas. One reviewer noted, “During dry seasons, the Tarangire River draws multitudes of wildlife,” making it a perfect place to witness Africa’s big herbivores and predators in their natural habitat.

Days 4 & 5: The Magnificence of Serengeti National Park

Leaving Tarangire, you’ll head to the Serengeti, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the star of many safaris. The drive itself is part of the experience—vast open plains and rolling landscapes that seem to stretch forever.

The Serengeti is famed for the Great Migration, but even outside of that, the game viewing here is superb year-round. Expect to see lions, cheetahs, leopards, elephants, hippos, crocodiles, and an array of birdlife. A reviewer remarked, “The Serengeti offers the most scintillating game viewing in Africa all year around,” and this is no exaggeration.

Mornings start with the soothing sounds of bird calls and the anticipation of spotting predators in action—an experience that truly leaves you feeling alive. After lunch, the day’s game drives continue, with guides providing insightful commentary about the wildlife behaviors and ecosystems.

Day 6: Farewell to Serengeti and Return to Arusha

This day involves a long drive back to Arusha, marking the end of your safari portion. The trek back offers more opportunities to reflect on the incredible wildlife sightings and landscapes encountered.

Days 7-9: Relaxing in Zanzibar

Transitioning from the wild to the tranquil beaches of Zanzibar, the tour shifts gears into pure leisure. Known as the Spice Island, Zanzibar’s stunning beaches are perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports.

Travelers can expect vibrant culture, historic sites, and romantic accommodations along the Indian Ocean. Past guests rave about Zanzibar’s crystal-clear waters and the variety of water activities available. As one reviewer said, “All water sports activities, vibrant culture, romantic accommodation by the Indian Ocean shore,” make Zanzibar an ideal way to unwind after days of safari adventure.

Days 8 & 9: Continued Beach Bliss

These days are dedicated to soaking up the sun, exploring local markets, or enjoying optional excursions like spice tours or snorkeling trips. The beaches are described as some of the best in the world, offering a perfect balance of relaxation and cultural richness.

Final Day: Saying Goodbye

The trip wraps up with a morning on Zanzibar before heading back home or onward to your next destination. Flexible options are available to extend your stay or customize the itinerary to suit your interests.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Knowledgeable Guides: Multiple reviews highlight guides like Paul and others who are friendly, responsive, and full of useful information. Travelers felt safe and well-informed, which makes a huge difference when navigating unfamiliar landscapes and wildlife.

Authentic Encounters: From the Maasai market visits to close-up sightings of lions and elephants, the tour emphasizes genuine experiences rather than just ticking boxes. One guest mentioned how “we saw many animals, it was good food, and good toilets,” showing the attention to comfort and authenticity.

Stunning Landscapes: The variety of scenery—from the rolling plains of Serengeti to the lush riverbanks of Tarangire—ensures you’ll always have a breathtaking view. Past visitors appreciated the “beautiful scenery” and “amazing wildlife diversity.”

Value for Money: For $2,750 per person, the trip includes five days of game drives, cultural visits, and three days on Zanzibar’s beaches, plus all meals (breakfasts, lunches, dinners). This makes it a well-rounded package, especially considering the included transportation and guided experiences.

Flexibility and Customization: The itinerary is described as flexible, allowing you to add or reduce days based on your preferences. Whether you want more beach time or additional safari days, it’s customizable.

Practical Details & Insights

Transport and Timing: The tour involves long drives—up to 10 hours on some days—so patience is essential. The transportation is private, ensuring a comfortable and intimate experience. Starting early at 7:00 am helps maximize sightseeing opportunities and wildlife encounters.

Group Size and Personal Touch: As a private tour, only your group participates, providing a more personalized experience. Guides like Paul and Biniam have received praise for their friendliness and responsiveness, which means you’ll likely feel well cared for.

Meals and Included Services: Breakfasts are served daily, with picnic lunches during safaris and some dinners included. This setup supports flexible exploration and ensures you’re well-fed throughout the adventure.

Additional Costs to Consider: Visa fees, international and domestic flights, and activities in Zanzibar are not included. It’s worth budgeting for these extras to ensure a smooth trip.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This trip is perfect for families, friends, couples on their honeymoon, or even students eager for a first-time safari experience. The combination of wildlife, culture, and beach relaxation appeals to a wide audience seeking a well-rounded adventure. If you’re after authentic encounters, expert guides, and stunning scenery, this tour ticks all those boxes.

The Sum Up

This 10-day safari and Zanzibar package offers a comprehensive and value-packed way to experience Tanzania’s diverse landscapes, incredible wildlife, and beautiful beaches. The guides’ knowledge, authentic encounters, and flexible itinerary make it a standout choice for those wanting an all-in-one adventure.

While the long travel days might test your patience, the reward of witnessing Africa’s iconic animals and relaxing on Zanzibar’s pristine shores more than makes up for it. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast or simply looking for a memorable escape, this tour provides a genuine taste of Tanzania’s natural and cultural riches.

For anyone seeking an authentic, well-organized, and deeply enriching trip, this experience is a solid choice. It’s especially suited for those who want a balanced mix of adventure and leisure, with plenty of opportunities to learn, explore, and unwind.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, private transportation is part of the package, with most days involving long drives between parks and to Zanzibar.

Are meals included during the safari days?
Breakfast is included daily, with picnic lunches provided during game drives. Dinners are also included on some days, but activities in Zanzibar are not.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, the itinerary is flexible, allowing you to add or reduce days based on your preferences.

What wildlife can I expect to see?
You’ll encounter the Big Five—lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhinoceros—plus cheetahs, giraffes, hippos, crocodiles, and over 500 bird species.

Is this tour suitable for families and honeymooners?
Absolutely. The tour is designed for diverse travelers, offering both adventure and relaxation options.

What should I budget for extras?
Visa fees, flights, and Zanzibar activities are not included, so plan accordingly. Also, optional excursions or upgrades might add to your costs.

Embark on this Tanzania adventure for a journey filled with awe-inspiring wildlife, vibrant culture, and unforgettable beach moments. It’s a well-crafted experience that balances the thrill of safaris with the serenity of Zanzibar’s shores—sure to leave you with stories to tell for years to come.