If you’re dreaming of dramatic wildlife encounters and barefoot luxury on white-sand beaches, a Tanzania safari and Zanzibar combo might just be the perfect trip. Picture early mornings tracking lions across the Serengeti savannah and evenings drifting across the turquoise water on a traditional dhow.
Combining the thrill of safari in the Serengeti or Ngorongoro Crater with the turquoise waters of Zanzibar offers the best of both worlds – adventure and relaxation, all in one journey. This bush-and-beach combo blends the thrill of the wild – from the Great Migration to the volcanic Ngorongoro Crater – with the slow rhythm of island life: spice-filled markets, coral reefs; and centuries-old Swahili culture. It’s an unforgettable mix of adventure, culture and relaxation – all wrapped in one seamless journey.
With direct flights linking mainland Tanzania and Zanzibar in just 1.5 hours, the transition from safari plains to the Indian Ocean couldn’t be smoother. Whether you are planning a honeymoon, a family holiday or venture out for the first time on the African continent, this route offers an accessible and deeply rewarding travel experience.
In this guide, we’ll share our insider tips on how to plan the ideal safari and Zanzibar package, including sample itineraries, estimated costs, the best time to visit and what to pack.
Why Combine a Tanzania Safari with Zanzibar?
Northern Tanzania is home to some of the East Africa’s most extraordinary safari destinations – the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire, and Lake Manyara. Whether you want to witness the Great Migration or spend golden hours tracking lions or explore Maasai culture, this region delivers bucket-list experiences.
Then comes Zanzibar, just a short flight away, yet a complete change of pace. Think: white-sand beaches with turquoise lagoons, Swahili culture with enchanted stories of beautiful princesses and powerful sultans and relaxed oceanfront lodges that invite you to slow down.
Zanzibar is not just a beach destination, it is a place of mysterious history and cultural richness, where echoes of ancient trade routes blend with the scent of cloves and frangipani in the air. The island is the birthplace of Swahili and has been welcoming travellers for over 2,000 years. From the call to prayer in Stone Town to coral reefs at low tide, Zanzibar’s rhythm is timeless and enchanting – whether you seek seclusion, adventure or a glimpse into the past.
Quick Facts: Why this combination works so well:
- Adventure & Rest: A perfect flow from wild game drives to the gently ocean brise
- Easy Logistics: Direct bush flights in just 1.5 hours
- Diverse Experience: Wildlife, culture, history, marine life & spice heritage
- For Everyone: Honeymooners, families, explorers, and many more
- Year-Round Appeal: Different seasons bring their own unique wonders
For many of our travellers, this pairing is pure magic – you spend your days chasing wildlife across ancient lands, then trade dust for turquoise waters and warm hospitality. The shift feels effortless: wild to calm, adventure to ease, curiosity to contented sighs.
We see it over and over again: you arrive curious, wide-eyed, ready for adventure – and then leave Zanzibar sun-warmed, restored, and a little changed inside. Tanzania has its own way of staying with you.
How a Northern Tanzania Safari & Zanzibar Beach Trip Flows
A well-paced 12 day Tanzania safari and Zanzibar journey might include:
- Day 1: Arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport – usually with an overnight in Arusha
- Days 2–7: Game drives across the Northern Circuit
- Tarangire: ancient baobab trees and elephant herds
- Lake Manyara: dramatic views and flamingos
- Ngorongoro Crater: scenic beauty and home of the Big Five
- Serengeti: Wildebeest migration and predators in action
- Day 8: Scenic flight to Zanzibar
- Days 9–11: Pure Relaxation: swap the safari dust for the warm waters of the Indian Ocean: swim, snorkel, sail or wander the Stone Town.
- Authentic Beach Holidays: North-East coast (Matemwe & Pongwe)
- Beach Walks & Relaxation: South-East coast (Bwejuu & Dongwe)
- Families with Kids: Chwaka Bay (Michamvi Peninsula)
- Historic Exploration: Zanzibar Town (Stone Town City)
- Relaxation & Quiet Beach Time: Southern Zanzibar (Kizimkazi)
- Touristic Hotspots: Northern Zanzibar (Nungwi & Kwenda)
- Watersport Enthusiasts: Souter-East Coast (Paje & Jambiani)
- Day 12: Departure from Zanzibar
Variations to the itinerary are always possible: such as incorporating a special focus on the Great Wildebeest Migration (January to March for Calving on the Southern Plains; July to October for River Crossing in Northern Serengeti) or Mafia Island for the unique chance to swim with Whale Sharks or Pemba Island for a diving adventure.
We’ve created a free downloadable itinerary to give you a better idea of how this works in practice – with suggested routing, timing, accommodation styles and “from” pricing. This is a flexible framework and we’ll tailor every detail to match your travel style, pace and interests. Think of it as a helpful starting point – a flexible framework that we’ll tailor to your pace, interests and travel style.
Download the Sample Itinerary (PDF)
What Does a Tanzania Safari and Zanzibar Combo Cost?
As with all tailor-made travel, costs vary depending on when you visit, where you stay, and how you like to travel. The good news: a safari-and-beach holiday is highly flexible – you can keep things comfortable with great-value or choose pure indulgence.
Approximate “from” costs per person for a private safari with Zanzibar beach extension:
- Good value: from ~ $3,500
- Mid-range: from ~ $4,500
- Luxury: between $10,000-$15,000
- Ultra-luxury: from ~ $15,000
These estimates typically include accommodation, a private safari vehicle with professional driver/guide, park fees, internal/domestic flights, most meals and airport transfers. International flights and tips are additional.
Remember: Safari stays are typically higher in cost because they are located deep in remote wilderness areas. Everything from fresh food to everyday supplies must be brought in by road or small aircraft, making operations far more complex than at the beach. A meaningful share of the cost also goes toward national park and conservation fees, which directly protect wildlife and help support surrounding communities.
Expert Tip: If you’re flexible, consider travelling during the shoulder seasons (November, early December, March). Wildlife viewing is still excellent, Zanzibar is warm and clear, and prices can be significantly lower.
At Tanzania Safari Bug, we spend time on the road each year revisiting lodges and testing cultural experiences – so our recommendations are always current, honest and personal.
Best Time to Visit Tanzania - Safari and Zanzibar
Tanzania is a year-round destination, but each season offers its own highlights and advantages. Here’s a quick overview:
- June to October: Dry season, but peak for safaris. Excellent wildlife viewing everywhere and River Crossings in West and Northern Serengeti. Best Beach Weather.
- January to March: Calving season in Southern Serengeti with predators in action. Excellent photography opportunities. Fewer crowds. Warm beach conditions with occasional rains.
- November to mid-December: Short rainy season with occasional rain showers. Lush Landscape with less dust. Fewer travelers and attractive overnight rates. Still good game viewing possibilities.
- April to May: Long rainy season and the quietest safari season. Very green with excellent viewing in Ngorongoro Crater. Some Zanzibar hotels close. Good price deals at safari properties.
For the best balance of weather, wildlife and availability, we often recommend either June to October or January to March. Not sure when to go? Tell us what matters most to you (Great Migration, photography, good value) and we will help you choose your ideal travel window.
What to Pack for Tanzania Safari and Zanzibar
Packing for both bush and beach might sound daunting, but it’s simpler than it seems. Here’s a brief checklist:
For Safari:
- Lightweight, neutral-toned clothing
- Fleece or light jacket (early mornings tend to be chilly)
- Comfortable closed shoes
- Hat, sunscreen, insect repellent
- Camera gear (with dust protection)
For Zanzibar:
- Swimwear and sandals
- Light, breathable clothing
- Reef-safe sunscreen
- Wrap or sarong (useful in both beach and town settings)
- Something modest for visiting Stone Town or local villages
Size matters (at least in safari planes): Small bush aircraft usually allow soft-sided bags of around 20 kg (including your hand luggage), so it’s best to pack light. The good news? Most camps offer same-day laundry, so you can travel comfortably without overpacking – and still have room for a few safari treasures on the way home.
Why Book Your Safari and Zanzibar Package with Us?
We are a family-run safari company – proudly local, deeply connected, and passionate about sharing the magic of Tanzania in a personal and meaningful way.
We do not sell “packages”. Every journey is crafted around you: your pace, interests, budget and travel style.
What makes us different?
- We genuinely listen
- We match you with hand-picked guides
- We know the places we recommend – we have visited them ourselves
- We care deeply about community and conservation
- We are with you every step of the way, making sure everything flows flawlessly
Our guests often tell us what stood out the most wasn’t just the wildlife, but the warmth of our guides, their knowledge and storytelling, and the feeling of truly being looked after!
That’s the Tanzania Safari Bug spirit!
Whether you are dreaming quietly or already picturing lions in the bush, we would love to help you shape a journey that feels just right.
Get in touch to start a conversation.
