This 12-day Tanzania safari combined with a Zanzibar beach retreat is one of the top Tanzania tours for travelers seeking a perfect blend of wildlife viewing and coastal leisure. Tailored for honeymooners or those aiming to tick off both the African Big Five and the turquoise waters of Zanzibar, this safari holiday covers top attractions including the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Lake Manyara, and the spice-scented archipelago of Zanzibar.
From wildlife-packed national parks to scenic beaches lined with swaying palms, this Tanzania safari holiday offers a balanced mix of adventure and relaxation. Activities range from guided wildlife drives and walking safaris to snorkeling and spice market visits. This trip features top-tier lodges and resorts, adaptable to suit different budgets. Reach out for a customized quote.
12-Day Tanzania Safari and Zanzibar Beach Tour Overview:
Day 1: Arrival in Zanzibar
Day 2: Explore Stone Town
Day 3: City highlights, spice plantations & Prison Island
Day 4: Safari Blue dhow cruise
Day 5: Dolphin expedition
Day 6: Leisure time on the beach
Day 7: Flight to Lake Manyara
Day 8: Walking safari and biking in Mto wa Mbu
Day 9: Wildlife drive in Ngorongoro Crater
Day 10: Foot safari & game viewing in Ndutu
Day 11: Full-day in Serengeti National Park
Day 12: Departure from Arusha
Day 1: Welcome to Zanzibar
Upon arriving at Zanzibar Airport, you’ll be received and transferred to your hotel. A representative will introduce you to your Tanzania tour and help you settle in. Spend the rest of the day unwinding at Kendwa Rocks Hotel where you’ll also have dinner and spend the night.
Day 2: Walk Through History in Stone Town
After breakfast, take a guided walk through the storied alleys of Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its Swahili architecture and trading past. Visit key sites and return to Kendwa Rocks Hotel for your evening meal and overnight stay.
Day 3: Zanzibar Highlights, Spice Farms & Tortoises on Prison Island
Fuel up with breakfast and prepare for a full day exploring Zanzibar’s top draws. Tour the city, then visit spice farms where cloves, nutmeg, cinnamon, and tropical fruits thrive. A boat trip to Prison Island lets you meet the centuries-old Aldabra giant tortoises. Return to Kendwa Rocks Hotel for dinner and your overnight stay.
Day 4: Traditional Dhow Trip with Safari Blue
Depart to Fumba village for a memorable sailing trip aboard a traditional dhow. You’ll cruise the waters of Menai Bay, feast on fresh seafood, and enjoy snorkeling among vibrant reefs. By evening, return to Kendwa Rocks Hotel for dinner and rest.
Day 5: Dolphin Spotting Adventure
Following a relaxed breakfast, set out on a dolphin spotting outing with chances for snorkeling. After this ocean-based activity, return to Kendwa Rocks Hotel for dinner and overnight.
Day 6: Beach Day in Zanzibar
Today is all about relaxation. Lounge on the powdery white sands of Kendwa Beach, swim in the warm Indian Ocean, or sip a cool drink under the sun. Overnight at Kendwa Rocks Hotel.
Day 7: Flight to Lake Manyara National Park
Start your morning with breakfast before heading to Zanzibar Airport for your flight to Lake Manyara. Upon landing, your Tanzania safaris guide will greet you and take you on a game drive in this unique park, famous for its tree-dwelling lions and large gatherings of flamingos along the soda lake. Dinner and overnight at Karatu Tented Lodge.
Day 8: Lake Manyara Walk and Mto wa Mbu Biking Tour
After breakfast, set out on a guided walking safari within Lake Manyara National Park. This gives you a close-up look at wildlife on foot, led by an armed ranger. Later, enjoy another drive before heading to the vibrant village of Mto wa Mbu for a cycling tour through plantations and local communities. Dinner and overnight at Karatu Tented Lodge.
Day 9: Wildlife Drive in the Ngorongoro Crater
Today begins with a hearty breakfast before descending into the world-renowned Ngorongoro Crater. This area is known for dense wildlife including zebras, buffaloes, leopards, lions, and elephants. Keep an eye out for flamingos along the crater lake’s edge. Return to Tanzania Bush Camp-Ndutu for dinner and your overnight stay.
Day 10: Foot Safari and Game Viewing in Ngorongoro
Get an early start for a walking safari in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, allowing you to observe wildlife and scenic beauty up close. Later, enjoy a drive through the Ndutu area, which is especially rewarding during the calving season. Return to Tanzania Bush Camp-Ndutu for dinner and the night.
Day 11: Discover Serengeti National Park
After breakfast, head to the legendary Serengeti National Park for a full day of game viewing. This park is known for its open savannahs and wildlife such as gazelles, giraffes, lions, cheetahs, and hyenas. Break for lunch in the bush and continue exploring before returning to Osinon Camps and Lodges for the evening.
Day 12: Return to Arusha
Wrap up your safari with breakfast at the lodge before being driven to Arusha for your international flight or onward travel. This concludes your 12-day Tanzania safari and Zanzibar beach vacation.
Package Includes:
Guided game drives as outlined in the schedule
All scheduled meals (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner)
Lodge and hotel accommodation for the entire trip
4×4 land cruiser vehicle with safari driver
Domestic flight to Lake Manyara
Park entry and crater access fees
Walking and biking activities
All Zanzibar excursions as per itinerary
Bottled drinking water during game drives
Government taxes
Package Excludes:
International flights
Visa application and fees
Insurance coverage
Tips, personal items, and extra drinks
Extra hotel stays before or after the holiday
Optional excursions outside of what’s listed