12 Days Best Of Tanzania Safari and Zanzibar Beach Tour

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12 Days Best Of Tanzania Safari and Zanzibar Beach Tour: A Complete Review

Exploring Tanzania and Zanzibar in one trip sounds like a dream, and this 12-day tour promises to turn that dream into reality. While we haven’t personally taken this exact journey, based on the detailed itinerary, reviews, and insights from previous travelers, this experience seems designed for those craving a blend of incredible wildlife encounters and relaxing beach time.

What we love about this tour is the chance to see the Big Five in their natural environment, the opportunity to explore iconic parks like the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater, and then unwind on the white sands of Zanzibar. The inclusion of professional guides, comfortable accommodations, and well-planned game drives make this a well-rounded adventure.

One consideration might be the price point of $8,745 per person, which offers a comprehensive experience but could be on the higher side for budget travelers. However, when you factor in all the included activities, park fees, transportation, and accommodations, it provides quite good value for a safari and Zanzibar combo.

This tour works best for travelers who want a balanced mix of adventure and relaxation, are comfortable with a busy itinerary, and appreciate guided experiences that maximize wildlife sightings. If you’re after a luxurious yet authentic safari experience paired with culture in Zanzibar, this tour could be a fantastic fit.

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Key Points

Incredible Wildlife Encounters: See the Big Five, explore the Serengeti, and descend into the Ngorongoro Crater.
Authentic Safari Experience: Game drives in 4×4 vehicles with open roofs for great views and photography.
Cultural and Relaxing Beach Time: Stone Town tour and Zanzibar beaches offer a perfect wind-down.
Expert Guides: Knowledgeable English-speaking drivers enhance your understanding of wildlife and local culture.
All-Inclusive Value: Accommodation, meals, park fees, and transportation are covered, simplifying planning.
Flexible Booking: Options to reserve now and pay later with full refunds if canceled 24 hours before.

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Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Days 1-2: Arrival and Lake Manyara National Park

Your adventure begins at Kilimanjaro International Airport, where a representative from Dyjany Tours will meet you and escort you to your accommodation in Arusha. This initial transfer sets a relaxed tone after your journey, with time to settle in before heading out.

Heading to Lake Manyara National Park on day two, you’ll be greeted with your first game drive in a lush, scenic area famous for its tree-climbing lions and flamingos. The Burundika Lodge provides a comfortable base, and reviews highlight the park’s diverse birdlife and the chance to see animals up close in a smaller, less crowded setting.

Days 3-4: Serengeti National Park

Leaving behind Lake Manyara, you’ll travel toward the Serengeti, known worldwide for its dramatic plains and phenomenal wildlife. En route game viewing offers the opportunity to spot elephants, giraffes, and perhaps a leopard or two. The full-day game drives in the Serengeti promise the quintessential safari experience, with guides sharing insights into animal behavior and park ecology.

Guests consistently praise the full-day game drives for allowing ample time to spot predators, herds, and rare behaviors. The Serengeti Osinon Tented Camp offers a closer-to-nature experience, with reviews mentioning the thrill of falling asleep under the stars after a day of exploration.

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Days 5-6: Ngorongoro Crater

Next, you’ll visit the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. The highlight here? Descending into the world’s largest intact caldera, which overflows with wildlife, lakes, and volcanic landscapes. Stopping at Olduvai Gorge adds a touch of history, where early human artifacts are showcased.

Spending a full day within Ngorongoro, you’ll witness lions lounging on the crater floor, elephants crossing the plains, and flamingos wading in lakes. Reviewers often mention the amazing variety of animals packed into such a compact area, making it a wildlife enthusiast’s dream.

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Days 7-8: Tarangire National Park and Return to Arusha

The journey continues to Tarangire, renowned for its massive herds of elephants and ancient baobab trees. The Sangaiwe Tented Camp provides a restful base for early morning and afternoon game drives, which reviewers say are ideal for glimpsing elephants, lions, and cheetahs.

After a morning game drive, you’ll return to Arusha, bringing your safari to a close with memories of incredible animal sightings and scenic landscapes.

Days 9-12: Zanzibar Relaxation and Cultural Exploration

The switch from safari to beach is seamless with your transfer to Zanzibar. Once in Stone Town, you can wander through narrow streets, experience the blend of Arab, African, and European influences, and enjoy local markets and cuisine. Many visitors appreciate the cultural depth and vibrant atmosphere of Stone Town.

Following this, you’ll head to Zanzibar’s pristine beaches, where reviews highlight the calming ambiance and soft white sands. On day 10, early morning game drives give you one last chance for wildlife viewing before flying to Zanzibar. The Zanzibar Serena Hotel offers a lush retreat, with guests noting the comfort and convenient location.

Your final days are dedicated to exploring Stone Town’s historical sites and relaxing on the beaches, making this trip a perfect combination of adventure and leisure. The tour concludes with a transfer to the airport, with many travelers feeling they’ve experienced a complete picture of Tanzania’s natural beauty and cultural richness.

Practical Details That Matter

Transport and Guides: Traveling in a well-equipped 4×4 vehicle with a pop-up roof ensures excellent wildlife viewing opportunities and comfortable photography. Guides are fluent in English and bring a wealth of knowledge, often sharing insights into animal behavior and park history that enhance the experience.

Accommodations: Expect a mix of lodges and tented camps, all selected for comfort and authentic safari ambiance. Many reviews point out that lodging in the parks offers stunning views and a chance to fall asleep listening to the sounds of Africa.

Meals and Park Fees: Included in the price are meals and park entrance fees, which simplifies budgeting and ensures no surprises. Travelers mention the quality of meals, often enjoying hearty local dishes and fresh fruits.

Timing and Group Size: The itinerary is designed for efficient wildlife viewing, with early mornings and late afternoons being the best times for game drives. Though not explicitly specified, group sizes tend to be small, fostering more personalized experiences.

Price and Value Analysis

At $8,745 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive package that covers most essentials: accommodations, transportation, guides, and park fees. While the price might seem high, the value lies in the expert guidance, comfortable logistics, and well-planned itinerary that reduces hassle and maximizes wildlife encounters.

Travelers have noted the organization and professionalism of Dyjany Tours and Safaris, with reviews praising guides like Kevin and Joseph for their deep knowledge and friendly manner. The inclusion of cultural visits in Zanzibar adds a unique dimension, making this more than just a safari.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for adventure seekers wanting to tick off wildlife bucket list items in a well-organized setting. It appeals to those who value guided expertise, comfortable accommodations, and a mix of adventure and cultural exploration. It’s a good fit for first-time safari-goers and couples or families looking for a comprehensive African experience. However, travelers on a tighter budget or seeking a more independent, self-guided trip might find this package slightly costly.

The Sum Up

The 12 Days Best Of Tanzania Safari and Zanzibar Beach Tour offers an authentic, engaging way to experience some of Africa’s most iconic sights. From the vast plains of the Serengeti to the wildlife-rich Ngorongoro Crater, and finally to Zanzibar’s inviting beaches and historic streets, it covers a lot of ground with style and comfort.

The tour’s emphasis on knowledgeable guides and stunning views makes it ideal for travelers looking for a trustworthy, memorable adventure. While the price is on the higher side, the inclusions and quality of experience justify it for many. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, a cultural explorer, or simply seeking relaxation on white sands, this tour balances all those elements beautifully.

For those ready to explore Africa’s wild heart and unwind on tropical shores, this journey promises to be an enriching, picture-perfect experience that leaves lasting memories.

FAQ

Is transportation provided throughout the tour?
Yes, you’ll travel in a 4×4 vehicle with a pop-up roof, ideal for game viewing and photography, throughout the safari part of the trip.

Are accommodations included in the price?
Yes, your stay at lodges and tented camps in national parks and Zanzibar is part of the package, covering comfort and convenience.

What is the main highlight of the safari?
Most travelers mention the Ngorongoro Crater and Serengeti as the top wildlife viewing locations, with opportunities to see the Big Five and other African animals.

Can I expect guided tours?
Absolutely. An English-speaking guide accompanies you, providing insights about wildlife and local culture, enhancing your understanding of each location.

Is Zanzibar’s beach time included?
Yes, after the safari, you’ll have time to relax on Zanzibar’s beaches and explore Stone Town, with transfers arranged for both activities.

What should I pack?
Pack comfortable walking shoes, a hat, sunscreen, a camera, water, and insect repellent. Littering and flash photography are not allowed in parks.

Is this tour suitable for families?
While not explicitly specified, the well-organized structure and focus on wildlife viewing make it suitable for families with children comfortable with long game drives.

How flexible is the booking process?
You can reserve now and pay later, with full refunds available if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance, offering peace of mind.

Are park entrance fees included?
Yes, all park fees indicated in the itinerary are covered, simplifying your planning and budgeting.

This comprehensive journey combines the thrill of safari with the serenity of Zanzibar’s beaches, making it a balanced adventure perfect for those eager to experience Africa in all its glory.