Epic safaris, wild encounters, and Zanzibar’s turquoise beaches in one unforgettable journey
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Travel
TANZANIA
Ultimate 10-Day Tanzania Itinerary: Safari & Zanzibar Escape
When we first planned our trip to Tanzania, we wanted it to be more than just ticking off safari parks or lounging on a tropical island. We were looking for the kind of adventure that shakes your senses, one that makes you wake up every morning with excitement and curiosity. Tanzania gave us exactly that, a perfect balance between wild, raw safari days and serene, sun-soaked moments by the ocean.
This is the story of our 10-day Tanzania itinerary, split between a 4-day private safari in Ngorongoro Crater and Serengeti National Park and a 6-day escape on the beaches of Zanzibar. If you’re dreaming about doing the same, we’ll not only share our personal journey but also tips to help you organize yours.
But why Tanzania?
Tanzania is a country where every corner feels like a postcard, yet it’s the experiences that stay with you long after you leave. For us, the highlight was waking up inside Serengeti, surrounded by the calls of hyenas, elephants rustling in the dark, and lions roaring somewhere in the distance. Later, Zanzibar felt like stepping into a slower rhythm of life, with warm locals, fresh seafood, and sunsets that made us pause and just breathe.
It was exactly the combination we needed: wild adventure followed by island relaxation.
Day 1: Arrival in Arusha
Most safaris in northern Tanzania start from Arusha, a busy town at the foot of Mount Meru. We landed at Kilimanjaro International Airport, and our driver-guide was waiting for us with a big smile and the typical Swahili greeting: Karibu! (“Welcome”).
Driving out of Arusha, the landscape began to change, dusty roads, Maasai herders leading cattle, and the occasional glimpse of Mount Meru in the distance. We felt the anticipation building with every mile.
That first evening, we stayed in a simple lodge near Arusha. It wasn’t about luxury, it was about getting ready for the adventure ahead. our advice: don’t plan anything intense for your arrival day. Long flights, new culture, and the anticipation of the safari mean you’ll want to rest, adjust, and maybe enjoy a local dinner before the real journey starts very early the next day.
Day 2: Ngorongoro Crater – A Natural Wonder
The next morning, we set off for Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most breathtaking natural formations we’ve ever seen. It is not just another safari stop; it’s one of the most unique ecosystems on Earth. Formed millions of years ago after a massive volcanic eruption, the crater is about 20 km wide and 600 meters deep, creating a natural bowl that traps wildlife inside.
What makes it so fascinating is that the animals here are essentially permanent residents. Unlike the Serengeti where herds migrate, the wildlife of Ngorongoro lives inside the crater all year round. It’s a closed ecosystem: the high walls of the crater prevent most animals from leaving, so generations of zebras, wildebeests, buffalo, and even predators like lions live their whole lives within these natural boundaries.
Descending into the crater felt like entering another world. In just a few hours, we saw zebras, wildebeests, buffalo, and even a distant rhino (a rare sight). It was far away, just a dark silhouette moving slowly across the plain, but still, we could say we saw it
What amazed us about Ngorongoro was the density of wildlife. Animals seemed to be everywhere, grazing peacefully, unbothered by the few safari jeeps around.
📌 Our Travel tip: Most people only spend one day here, which is enough to get a full impression. Make sure your guide organizes a picnic lunch inside the crater, eating surrounded by zebras and gazelles is unforgettable.
That night, we didn’t stay in Ngorongoro. Instead, we drove onward to Serengeti, which would be our home for the next three nights.
Days 3–5: Serengeti National Park – The Endless Plains
If Ngorongoro is impressive, Serengeti is overwhelming. The name itself means “endless plains” in the Maasai language, and that’s exactly how it feels. Miles and miles of golden grassland dotted with acacia trees, stretching beyond the horizon.
Our guide was a huge part of this experience. Safari guides in Tanzania are not just drivers, they are storytellers, trackers, and wildlife experts. Ours knew exactly where to find the animals and shared so much about their behavior. We learned how elephants care deeply for their family members, how lion prides organize their hunts, and why zebras and wildebeests often graze side by side. His knowledge gave meaning to every sighting. 👉 Contact Us to share with you the contact of our guide
What struck us most was how unpredictable everything was. A safari isn’t a zoo; nothing is guaranteed. You have to keep your eyes open at all times. Sometimes, the plains look empty, but suddenly, movement in the grass reveals a hidden cheetah or a herd of giraffes.
Every moment is an adventure, one second you’re tracking giraffes, the next you’re watching a lion feast, nothing is scripted, everything is unpredictable. That’s the essence of Serengeti : the mystery, the surprise, and the thrill of the unknown.
We spent three full days inside Serengeti, and every hour was different. Here are just some of the highlights:
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Lions with cubs: One morning, we came across a pride lounging under a tree. The cubs were playing, climbing over each other, completely ignoring us. Watching them so close felt like a scene from a wildlife documentary.
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Two cheetahs approached our jeep: a stressed couple searching for their missing cub. Our guide explained it likely disappeared while they were hunting, a common tragedy caused by hyenas when parents leave their young unattended
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Elephants at sunset: As the sun dipped low, we saw a family of elephants walking slowly across the savanna, their silhouettes glowing orange.
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Hyenas at night: Sleeping inside Serengeti is an adventure in itself. From our lodge, we could hear hyenas laughing in the dark and sometimes even the heavy steps of elephants. Falling asleep with those sounds around us was both thrilling and humbling.
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Buffalo, giraffes, antelopes, zebras, wildebeests: After a few days, we realized how abundant wildlife really is here. It’s not about if you’ll see animals, but how many and how close.
At night, back at our lodge, we would sit by the fire and replay the day’s events. Outside, we could hear hyenas laughing in the dark, and once, the heavy steps of an elephant walking nearby. Those sounds reminded us that here, humans are just visitors. Serengeti belongs to the wild.
📌 Our Travel tip: A private safari is worth it if you’re traveling with friends or family. We were three people, and having our own guide and vehicle gave us flexibility to stop whenever we wanted, spend time with the animals we loved most, and avoid the rush of big groups.
On the fifth day, after three nights in Serengeti, we headed back toward Arusha, tired but still buzzing with everything we had seen.
Day 6: Flight to Zanzibar
From Arusha, it’s a short flight to Zanzibar, just over an hour, but it feels like entering a completely new world. The dusty savanna gives way to turquoise water and palm trees.
Arriving in Zanzibar, we decided to skip the famous touristy spots like Paje Nungwi or Kendwa and instead headed to a small fishing village by the sea. Our goal was to live close to locals, not in big resorts. This turned out to be one of the best decisions of our trip.
During a week, we discovered the East part of Zanzibar island, and stayed in 2 front beach towns : Jambiani and Matemwe (See our hotel's recommendations below)
Days 6–10: Zanzibar – Life by the Ocean
After the intensity of the safari, Zanzibar was our reward, a chance to slow down, rest, and reconnect with the ocean. We stayed in two different beachfront towns in the east part of Zanzibar, each with its own character.
Jambiani – Laid-Back Village Life
Our first stop was in Jambiani, where we stayed in a cozy villa just a five-minute walk from the beach. The accommodation was perfect for a group: a room for four with a private kitchen, plus a shared swimming pool.
Jambiani is far from crowded. We barely saw other tourists, just locals going about their daily lives, fishing at sunrise, tending to cows and chickens, living in a rhythm that felt beautifully simple and laid back. It was exactly what we needed to disconnect. The beach itself was long, wide, and peaceful, often with just a handful of people walking
Matemwe – Serenity at the Water’s Edge
For the second part of our stay, we moved north to Matemwe. Here, we chose a modern beachfront apartment, fully equipped and designed for comfort. The serenity of waking up, sliding open the door, and stepping straight into the ocean for a morning swim was simply out of this world.
Matemwe felt a bit more polished than Jambiani, but still quiet compared to Zanzibar’s busier tourist areas. It was the perfect balance of comfort and tranquility.
Activities in Zanzibar
The main draw of Zanzibar is its ocean, and we took full advantage. The water here is something you have to see to believe: turquoise, crystal clear, and impossibly inviting.
We booked two excursions through GetYourGuide a simple plateform that gather all activities suggrested by local agencies with fair price, both of which turned out to be unforgettable.
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👉 Swimming with Wild Dolphins and Turtles – Kizimkazi (Pick up and drop off included)
Early in the morning, our driver took us to Kizimkazi Point, a magical, less crowded part of the island. Here, we had the chance to swim alongside wild wild dolphins. Watching them glide effortlessly through the water, free and playful, was surreal. Later, we visited a turtle sanctuary, where we could swim with these gentle creatures. It felt like stepping into another world. -
👉 Snorkeling Day Tour to Mnemba Island (Pick up and drop off included)
The other highlight was a day trip to Mnemba Island, famous for its marine life. Imagine snorkeling above colorful reefs with schools of fish darting around you, spotting dolphins on the way, and then stepping onto a strip of blinding white sand that emerges with the tide.The only downside is that Mnemba is no secret. There were many boats in the area, making it feel more touristy compared to Kizimkazi. Still, the beauty of the place is undeniable. Lunch was included with an incredible grilled seafood platter with shrimp, calamari, and octopus, along with fruit and drinks. For us, it was worth it.
Fresh Seafood & Island Flavors
One of the joys of Zanzibar is how simple and delicious the food is. Most local restaurants are right on the beach, serving grilled seafood caught the same day. Prices are affordable, usually between $10–13 per meal.
Here are some favorites we tried and recommend:
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Chichi Local Restaurant (Jambiani): The grilled octopus here was hands down the best we’ve ever tasted, tender, smoky, and perfectly spiced.
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Bin Jabir Restaurant (Matemwe): A small family-run spot serving fresh seafood and Zanzibari curries. The portions are generous, the service warm, and the view of the ocean makes it even better.
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Garden Bob Swahili Restaurant (Jambiani): A rustic place with delicious Swahili-style dishes like coconut fish curry and chapati. The food is homemade and flavorful, but note they only accept cash.
For us, meals in Zanzibar were not just about eating, but about slowing down. Sitting by the beach, sipping fresh juice, and waiting for the catch of the day to be grilled, it was all part of the rhythm of island life.
Complete Budget Guide: How Much Does a Tanzania Safari + Zanzibar Trip Cost?
When we started planning our trip to Tanzania, one of the first things we wondered was: how much is this going to cost? Safaris, lodges, flights, Zanzibar, it quickly seemed overwhelming. After experiencing it ourselves, we realized that with the right planning, a Tanzania safari is much more approachable than it looks. Here’s our personal breakdown, day by day, with all the details to help you organize your adventure without any surprises
Why You Can’t Do a Safari Alone ?
One of the first things you should know, is that it’s impossible to do a safari on your own in Tanzania. The regulations are strict: you must have an accredited and certified guide to enter the parks. These guides are not just drivers, they are wildlife experts who know where to find animals, how to track them, and how to keep you safe.
The Parts of Safari Costs
1. Park Entrance Fees (Fixed, Non-Negotiable)
This is the part you cannot adjust. It’s roughly $300 USD per person per day. That may sound like a lot, but it’s important to know where this money goes: it goes directly into the conservation of Tanzania’s national parks, paying for rangers, anti-poaching measures, and the preservation of wildlife. Essentially, you’re helping protect the incredible animals you’ll see on safari.
2. Agency Fees and Accommodation (Flexible)
This part varies depending on:
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The lodge you choose : mid-range, fancy, or luxury.
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Location : inside the Serengeti park is ideal; outside means exiting the park at 6 pm and returning the next morning, which cuts into wildlife-viewing time.
We found that staying inside the park, even in mid-range lodges, is far better for maximizing your safari experience. And because lodge rooms are usually spacious, you can split the cost between 4–6 people, making it surprisingly affordable.
3. Tips (Highly appreciated)
One extra cost that is very common, and highly appreciated, is tipping your guide and driver. We tipped $20 USD per person per day, which felt right given their expertise and the amazing experiences they created. These guides are employees of the agency, not owners, so your tip goes directly to them. Helping them was an easy decision for us, they were incredible at spotting animals and explaining everything about the ecosystem.
Sample Costs: 1-Day Safari in a Mid-Range Lodge
For a group of 4 people, you can expect the cost for a single day on safari with a mid-range lodge and shared 4x4 to be roughly $400–$470 per person per day. Here’s how it breaks down:
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Park entrance fee : 300$
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Mid-range lodge (split 4 people) : 50–70$
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Guide & 4x4 vehicle (split 4 people) : 30–80$
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Tips: 20$
All meals were included in the lodges, breakfast and dinner served freshly every day, which was such a relief. No hidden costs, just pure safari experience.
Traveling with a group of 4–6 helps bring the per-person cost down even more, making a safari much more budget-friendly without compromising on comfort or adventure. In the other hand, the smaller your group (if you are 2 or 3), the higher the per-person cost, because lodge rooms and the guide/4x4 fees are shared among fewer people.
So for 4-day safari, and if you are 4 people, you can expect to pay between 1600$ and 1900$ (including tips), This range reflects a comfortable mid-range safari, staying inside the parks, splitting costs with other travelers, and including tips and meals.
Flights: Getting to the Safari
To start your safari efficiently, it’s best to fly into Kilimanjaro International Airport (Arusha region). This airport puts you right next to the northern safari circuit, so you can start your journey immediately, and that's what we did
If you land instead in Dar es Salaam, you’ll need an internal flight to Arusha. You can fly with Precision Air, which costs around $50 USD one-way, and it’s reliable.
After the safari, we flew from Arusha to Zanzibar, again with Precision Air, for about $100 USD one-way. Booking flights in advance can save a little money, especially in high season.
Zanzibar Add-on
After the safari, we flew to Zanzibar for some much-needed relaxation. Airfare was around $100 USD one-way, and the island offers a wide range of accommodation and food options for every budget.
We organized Zanzibar on our own, which gave us more control over costs. We stayed in mid-range accommodations near the beach or front-beach, with prices ranging from $70 to $300 per night, depending on the season and the number of travelers. Staying by the beach allowed us to enjoy the ocean every morning, relax, and disconnect from busy tourist spots.
Food was affordable and fresh. Local beach front restaurants (Chichi local restaurant was our favorite) offered:
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Chapati or simple meals: $5
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Grilled seafood platters: $10–$15
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Lobster: $20
Taxi transfers from and to the airport were reasonable, around $15–$25 each way depending on the hotel location.
We also booked activities independently, which helped control costs:
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Private Kizimkazi tour (swimming with dolphins & turtles): $70 per person
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Mnemba full-day snorkeling tour: $40 per person, including fruits and a grilled seafood lunch.
Organizing Zanzibar ourselves allowed us to avoid large tourist crowds, choose exactly what we wanted to do, and keep the trip significantly more budget-friendly than pre-packaged tours.
How much does a total trip Safari + Zanzibar cost at the end ?
For a group of 4 people traveling 10 days in Tanzania, including a 4-day safari and 6 days in Zanzibar, you can expect to pay roughly between $2,100 and $2,600 per person. Of course, this estimate will vary depending on the size of your group — the more travelers, the lower the per-person cost.
We highly recommend the local agency we traveled with. They offer reasonable prices and can even provide discounts if you mention you came through us. Feel free to drop us a message on our Instagram and fill out the contact form here to get in touch!
Best Time to Visit Tanzania: Safari & Zanzibar Tips by Season
Best time of the year for Safaris in Tanzania
When planning a trip to Tanzania, timing can make all the difference. From the wildlife-packed savannahs of the Serengeti to the turquoise waters of Zanzibar, each season brings its own unique charmM and its own set of challenges. Having spent 10 days exploring the country, including a 4-day safari and six relaxing days on Zanzibar, we can share exactly what worked for us and what to expect in every season.
Dry Season: June to October : Perfect for Safari
We visited during the dry season in August, and it was incredible. The landscapes are golden, rivers are low, and animals gather around waterholes, making sightings easier and more frequent. During our safari, we could spot lions lounging in the shade, elephants roaming in family groups, and even tracking a cheetah sprint across the Serengeti plains. The dry season is particularly popular for the Great Migration, which usually peaks around June to July, when millions of wildebeest and zebras cross the Mara River.
One thing we quickly realized is that in this season, the parks can get busy. Booking accommodations inside the Serengeti early is essential, as lodges fill fast. Staying inside the park itself, rather than just outside, made our game drives seamless and maximized wildlife encounters. so consieder to book your safari adventure in advance, and we can help you with, reach out for detailed information
Short Rains: November to December : Green and Vibrant
We didn’t experience this firsthand, but we heard from our local guide that visiting in November or December has its perks. The landscape is lush and vibrant, and newborn animals begin to appear, making for cute and memorable sightings. The rains are usually short and don’t disrupt safari plans too much, but roads can become muddy. Prices during this shoulder season are slightly lower, which is a bonus for budget-conscious travelers.
Long Rains: March to May : Off-Peak Adventure
This is considered the off-season, heavy rains make some roads impassable, especially in remote areas of the Serengeti. Many lodges close for maintenance during this time. On the upside, if you’re seeking tranquility, fewer tourists, and a dramatic, green landscape, this season can be still nice. Just be prepared for occasional disruptions and slower game drives.
Timing for Activities and Wildlife
Our guide emphasized that timing affects not just the scenery but the animals’ behavior. For instance, during the dry months, predators gather around waterholes, and birdlife is less abundant but easier to spot. During the rains, the Serengeti teems with newborn wildlife and migratory birds.
Zanzibar: Sun, sea, and serenity year-round
Unlike the safari parks, Zanzibar’s climate is more forgiving. We spent six days splitting our time between two beachfront towns and found the island welcoming in almost any month. The dry season (June to October) is ideal for snorkeling, diving, and exploring the turquoise waters. The island can get busier during this peak period, especially around holidays.
The short rains (November to December) and long rains (March to May) still allow for warm weather and pleasant sea conditions, though some excursions may be affected.
Timing for Activities and Wildlife
For Zanzibar, early mornings are the best for excursions like dolphin tours, as the sea is calmer, and you’ll avoid the mid-day crowds. Snorkeling trips to Mnemba are more predictable if booked for the morning, with the reefs at their most vibrant under the sun.
Practical Tips
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Pack wisely: Light layers for Zanzibar, warmer clothes for early morning game drives (see detailed section below)
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Book in advance: Especially for dry season safaris and beachfront hotels in Zanzibar.
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Consider group size: Traveling with friends can reduce per-person costs, especially for safari lodges.
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Stay flexible: Weather can surprise you, but a flexible itinerary ensures you still make the most of your trip.
Our Takeaway
In the end, the best time to visit depends on what you want to prioritize. For our perfect balance, abundant wildlife, comfortable roads, and sunny beach days, the dry season was unbeatable. But Tanzania has magic in every month, and every season offers a different story. Planning around your interests, whether it’s chasing the Great Migration, discovering hidden beaches, or simply soaking in the tranquility of Zanzibar, will ensure your journey is unforgettable.
Packing List for a Safari + Zanzibar Combo Trip
Packing for a Tanzania trip that combines a thrilling safari with relaxing days on Zanzibar requires a bit of strategy. We quickly realized that the key is to balance comfort for long game drives, practicality for unpredictable weather, and style for island vibes. After our 10-day adventure, here’s exactly what we found essential.
Clothing for Safari
On safari, comfort and practicality come first. Neutral-colored clothing in khaki, beige, or olive green works best, it helps you blend into the environment and avoid startling wildlife. Lightweight, breathable fabrics are ideal since the days can get hot, but early mornings and evenings are surprisingly chilly. We packed a light fleece or jacket for game drives, which made those early 6 a.m. departures far more comfortable.
Long sleeves and pants are important, not only for sun protection but also to keep mosquitoes at bay. We also brought a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and a scarf for dusty rides, a small detail that made a huge difference in comfort. Comfortable hiking shoes or sturdy sneakers are essential, since you might be walking short trails near waterholes or viewpoints.
Gear and Accessories
We quickly learned that a good pair of binoculars is indispensable for spotting distant wildlife, most of the guide has their own, so you may borrow them from time to time. A small, lightweight backpack helped us carry water, snacks, sunscreen, and our cameras on game drives. Speaking of cameras, a zoom lens (more than 100mm) makes wildlife photography much easier, and a waterproof cover or bag protects your gear from unexpected rain or dust.
Other must-haves include sunscreen (high SPF), insect repellent, and a reusable water bottle. A basic first aid kit, motion sickness tablets for bumpy roads, and hand sanitizer were small but essential items that we didn’t want to forget.
Zanzibar Essentials
Once we transitioned to Zanzibar, our packing shifted toward beach and water activities. Lightweight clothing, swimsuits, flip-flops, and beach cover-ups were key. We found that casual evening wear is perfect for seaside dinners, think breezy dresses or shorts and linen shirts.
Snorkeling gear isn’t necessary since most tours provide it, but a waterproof dry bag comes in handy for keeping valuables safe during boat trips. We also packed reef-safe sunscreen to protect our skin and the coral reefs.
Travel Documents & Miscellaneous
Don’t forget your passport, visas, vaccination certificate (yellow fever), and travel insurance documents. A small travel wallet or organizer made it easy to keep everything accessible, especially when moving between safari lodges and Zanzibar hotels.
Practical Tips from Experience
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Layer clothing: mornings on safari are chilly, afternoons on Zanzibar are hot.
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Pack light but efficiently: we traveled with one medium-sized suitcase for 10 days, plus a small daypack.
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Keep electronics charged: power banks were lifesavers for long days on safari without access to outlets.
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Laundry: most mid-range lodges offer laundry service, which allowed us to pack fewer clothes.
Our Takeaway
Ultimately, packing smart for a Tanzania safari + Zanzibar combo is about blending practicality with comfort. Neutral safari colors, breathable fabrics, sun protection, and beach essentials will keep you comfortable and prepared, leaving you free to enjoy every lion sighting and sunset stroll along Zanzibar’s beaches without stress.
