Zanzibar & Tanzania: 13 Days Beach & Safari Adventure Tour

This 13-day journey promises a balanced mix of sun-soaked beaches and wildlife safaris, offering an authentic taste of Tanzania’s diverse landscapes. While it’s a premium experience at $2,869 per person, the combination of luxurious accommodations, guided safaris, and unique excursions aims to deliver real value for travelers eager to see both the shoreline and the savannah.

What really makes this tour stand out are the multiple safaris—including walking and boat trips—along with the chance to stay in close-to-nature lodges. Plus, the all-inclusive meals, domestic flights, and thoughtfully curated activities provide a seamless experience.

A possible consideration? The tour involves some early mornings and active days, which might not suit everyone, especially those with back or heart issues. This adventure fits best for travelers looking for a comprehensive Tanzanian experience, blending leisure and wildlife up-close.

Key Points

• Dual Experience: Combines Zanzibar’s gorgeous beaches with Tanzania’s iconic safaris.
• Comprehensive Inclusions: Hotel stays, flights, park fees, and activities are included, maximizing convenience.
• Varied Safari Options: Walking safaris, boat safaris, and full-day game drives offer diverse wildlife encounters.
• Unique Accommodations: From beachfront resorts to bandas in the bush, lodging enhances the experience.
• Authentic Encounters: Close proximity to animals, hot springs visits, and local cultural exploration.
• Value for Money: Full-board meals and inclusive activities make this a premium yet well-rounded package.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the 13-Day Zanzibar & Tanzania Tour

Starting in Zanzibar: Relaxation and Beach Bliss

The adventure kicks off in Zanzibar, often called the “spice island” for its fragrant farms and vibrant markets. You’ll stay four nights at Paradise Beach Resort, a spot renowned for its stunning ocean views and tranquil atmosphere. The emphasis here is on unwinding—lounging on powdery sands, enjoying the warm Indian Ocean, or exploring the local surroundings.

Guests mention the resort’s beautiful vistas and friendly staff, making it an ideal base to decompress after your travels. The all-inclusive meal plan means you can indulge in fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and local spices without thinking about a thing. It’s a perfect way to reset before heading into the wilderness.

Transition to a Safari: Flying to Selous Game Reserve

Midway through your trip, you’ll leave the beach behind for a true wildlife adventure. The transfer involves a short domestic flight from Zanzibar to Selous, Africa’s largest protected game reserve. The flight itself offers scenic views of the landscape—think patches of green interspersed with dry savannah.

The safari experience begins immediately once you arrive at Africa Safari Selous, where you’ll stay in a banda bungalow close to nature. The proximity to wildlife means monkeys, elephants, and other animals are often seen wandering nearby.

Guests have highlighted the convenience of the flight transfer, noting it saves many hours of drives and adds to the feeling of entering a different world. The close-to-nature accommodation enhances the feeling of being truly immersed in Tanzania’s wilderness.

Walking and Boat Safaris: Up-close Encounters

The real magic of this part of the tour lies in the guided walking safari and boat safari on the Rufiji River. These activities provide a different perspective compared to traditional vehicle safaris. As one reviewer shares, “Walking safaris bring you face-to-face with nature—you hear the rustling, see animals in their natural habitat, and get a sense of real adventure.”

The boat safari offers a peaceful glide along the Rufiji River, with chances to spot crocodiles, hippos, and an array of birdlife. It’s a more relaxed but equally immersive way to observe wildlife, especially in the late afternoon when animals tend to gather near water sources.

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Full-Day Game Drives and Hot Springs Discovery

Two full-day game drives give ample opportunity to see predators, herbivores, and everything in between. The guides are praised for their knowledge and patience, helping guests capture memorable photos and learn about animal behaviors.

A standout experience is the visit to Beho Beho Hot Springs. You might find this a refreshing break—bring your swimsuit, as many guests opt to take a dip in the mineral-rich waters after a long day of game viewing. It’s a quiet moment amid the safari excitement, often described as a highlight by previous travelers.

Returning to Zanzibar: Rest and Leisure

After your safari, the journey reverses back to Zanzibar for four days of pure relaxation. Returning to Paradise Beach Resort allows guests to unwind again, reflecting on their safari adventures. During this time, you can choose to relax on the beach, snorkel in the Indian Ocean, or explore local spice farms.

The all-inclusive setup means you won’t need to worry about meals, making it easy to enjoy leisure activities or simply soak up the sun. Many reviewers appreciate the stunning views and the chance to recharge in a luxurious setting.

Exploring Stone Town

The final stop is in Stone Town, Zanzibar’s historic heart. Staying at the Shaba Boutique Hotel, guests find themselves in the middle of narrow streets filled with history, markets, and cultural sites. The hotel’s design is praised for its charm, and it’s a perfect base for wandering through the UNESCO World Heritage site.

Exploring Stone Town offers a contrast to the natural adventures, giving insight into Zanzibar’s past, architecture, and local life. It’s a fitting end to a diverse trip.

Transportation and Practicalities

The tour makes good use of private transfers, ensuring smooth transitions between accommodations and airports. The guided safaris use a safari jeep, providing comfort and ample room for wildlife viewing.

Timing-wise, early mornings are common, especially for game drives—expect to start before dawn to catch the animals when they’re most active. The tour groups are generally well-paced, balancing active days with enough rest.

The inclusion of domestic flights simplifies travel between Zanzibar and Selous, saving hours of road travel and making the overall experience more relaxed. Keep in mind, flight seat availability might impact your schedule, so flexibility is advised.

Accommodation Highlights

• Paradise Beach Resort: A beachfront haven with stunning ocean views and excellent amenities.
• Africa Safari Selous Banda: Close to wildlife, rustic yet comfortable, offering an authentic safari experience.
• Shaba Boutique Hotel: Located centrally in Stone Town, blending local charm with modern comfort.

Cost and Value

At $2,869 per person, this experience is on the higher end but includes nearly everything—meals, flights, park fees, guiding, and multiple excursions. This all-in-one approach reduces the hassle of planning each segment separately.

The value comes from the variety of activities, exclusive accommodations, and the opportunity to experience Tanzania’s iconic landscapes in comfort and style.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip suits travelers who want a full-bodied experience—combining beach leisure with adventure-filled safaris. It’s perfect for those who appreciate guided wildlife encounters and like having logistics taken care of, from flights to accommodations.

It’s best suited for active individuals comfortable with early starts and outdoor activities. Since the tour involves some walking and wildlife viewing, it might not be ideal for people with back or heart problems or those requiring wheelchair access.

Final Thoughts

This Zanzibar & Tanzania tour offers a well-rounded mix of relaxation and adventure. You’ll enjoy days lounging on pristine beaches, followed by exhilarating wildlife encounters, all wrapped in thoughtfully chosen accommodations.

Travelers who love stunning views, close wildlife engagement, and seamless logistics will find this a memorable journey. It balances the best of both worlds—beachfront bliss and the thrill of African safaris—making it a solid choice for a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

FAQ

What is included in this tour?
It covers park fees, guided safaris, hotel stays, domestic flights between Zanzibar and Selous, all meals at accommodations, transportation, and excursions such as boat safaris and hot springs visits.

Are airport transfers provided?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, plus transfers for flights between Zanzibar and Selous.

What kind of accommodations are used?
Guests stay at Paradise Beach Resort in Zanzibar, in Banda bungalows at Selous Safari Lodge, and at Shaba Boutique Hotel in Stone Town. All are chosen for comfort and proximity to key sites.

Can I customize the trip?
While the itinerary is set, flexibility exists in activities during leisure days, such as optional excursions or relaxing on the beach.

Are meals included?
Yes, full-board meals are provided during the safari portion, and all-inclusive options are available at the beach resort.

Is this tour suitable for families?
While suitable for most active travelers, it’s best for those comfortable with early mornings and outdoor activities. It may not be ideal for very young children or those with mobility issues.

What should I pack?
Bring essentials like a passport, insect repellent, sun protection, swimwear, comfortable walking shoes, and a camera. Consider lightweight clothing for safaris and beachwear for Zanzibar.

How flexible is the schedule?
Some scheduling depends on flight availability, which may require slight rescheduling. The tour operator advises flexibility around flights.

What is the main highlight of this tour?
Many find the combination of wildlife encounters in Selous and relaxing beaches of Zanzibar to be the most memorable, offering a comprehensive taste of Tanzania’s natural beauty.

This 13-day tour offers a captivating blend of Africa’s best features—vast wilderness, stunning beaches, and cultural richness—crafted for travelers eager for an authentic, adventure-filled escape.

You can check availability for your dates here: