Wildlife and Waves Adventure

7 days—Discover the Big Five on the mainland and unwind on the white-sand beaches of Zanzibar Island in just seven incredible days.

$9058-9100 USD

pp

Safari summary

7 Days Tanzania Safari & Zanzibar Beach Escape

A seven-day safari and Zanzibar beach escape offers an extraordinary opportunity to experience two of Tanzania’s most iconic travel highlights in one seamless adventure. This journey combines the untamed wilderness of Northern Tanzania’s legendary national parks with the tranquil beauty of Zanzibar’s white-sand beaches and turquoise waters. It is a perfect itinerary for travelers who want both adventure and relaxation, wildlife and culture, savannah and sea all within one unforgettable week.

Your adventure begins on mainland Tanzania, the heart of East Africa’s safari experience. From the moment you arrive in Arusha, often called the safari capital of Tanzania, you will feel the anticipation of what lies ahead. Professional safari guides welcome you and prepare you for days filled with wildlife encounters, breathtaking landscapes, and authentic African experiences.

The first safari destination is the magnificent Tarangire National Park. Known for its giant baobab trees and large elephant herds, Tarangire offers a classic African wilderness atmosphere. The park’s landscape is a mixture of open savannah, seasonal swamps, and the Tarangire River, which attracts wildlife year-round. During game drives, you may encounter elephants moving gracefully in family groups, giraffes browsing on acacia trees, zebras grazing peacefully, and predators such as lions resting in the shade. Bird enthusiasts will appreciate the rich birdlife, as the park hosts hundreds of species. The golden light of sunset over the baobabs creates a magical setting, perfect for photography and quiet reflection.

The journey continues to one of Africa’s most remarkable natural wonders, the Ngorongoro Crater. Formed millions of years ago after a massive volcanic eruption, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is the world’s largest intact volcanic caldera. Descending into the crater feels like entering a lost world. The fertile floor supports an incredible concentration of wildlife, making it one of the best places in Africa to spot the Big Five — lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhino. Wide open grasslands, shimmering soda lakes, and acacia forests create diverse habitats within a relatively small area. A full-day game drive here often includes sightings of large lion prides, hippos wallowing in pools, flamingos lining the lake shores, and possibly the rare black rhino grazing in the distance. A picnic lunch surrounded by nature enhances the sense of immersion in this extraordinary ecosystem.

From Ngorongoro, the adventure proceeds to the legendary Serengeti National Park, one of the most famous wildlife destinations on Earth. The Serengeti’s endless plains stretch beyond the horizon, symbolizing the true spirit of African safari. Depending on the season, travelers may witness the Great Migration — millions of wildebeest and zebras moving in search of fresh grazing. Even outside migration periods, the Serengeti offers exceptional wildlife viewing year-round. Cheetahs scan the plains from termite mounds, leopards lounge in acacia trees, and elephants roam freely across the landscape. Morning and afternoon game drives provide ample opportunities to observe animal behavior in its natural setting. Evenings are spent in comfortable lodges or tented camps, where the distant sounds of wildlife create an authentic safari atmosphere under the African night sky.

After days of thrilling wildlife encounters, the journey transitions from bush to beach as you fly back to the enchanting island of Zanzibar Island. Located in the Indian Ocean, Zanzibar offers a striking contrast to the mainland safari experience. Here, palm trees sway gently in ocean breezes, and white sandy beaches meet crystal-clear waters. The relaxed island rhythm invites you to unwind and reflect on your safari adventures.

A visit to historic Stone Town introduces travelers to Zanzibar’s rich cultural heritage. Narrow winding alleys, intricately carved wooden doors, bustling markets, and centuries-old architecture reveal a fascinating blend of African, Arab, Persian, and European influences. Stone Town is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers insights into the island’s complex history, including its role in trade and exploration. Walking tours provide opportunities to explore local markets, visit historic landmarks, and experience authentic Swahili culture.

Beyond cultural exploration, Zanzibar offers abundant marine activities. Snorkeling excursions reveal vibrant coral reefs teeming with tropical fish. Traditional dhow boat cruises glide across turquoise waters, especially stunning at sunset. Travelers can visit nearby islands, swim in warm ocean lagoons, or simply relax at a beachfront resort enjoying fresh seafood cuisine. For nature lovers, Jozani Forest provides a chance to see the rare red colobus monkeys found only in Zanzibar.


About this tour

Tour type Custom, tailor-made, private
Main focus Game drives
Activity level Easy activity
Best months All months
Countries
Parks
Accesibility
This tour is modifiable for those with limited mobility.

Fine details

Safari highlights
  • Beaches
  • Bird watching—with professional guide
  • Photography safari—with professional guide
What’s included?
  • Accommodation
  • Airport transfers
  • Meals
  • Park fees
  • Private vehicle and driver

Itinerary

Arrival & Transfer to Tarangire

Tarangire

Your adventure begins with an early morning flight from Zanzibar Island to Arusha on mainland Tanzania. Upon arrival, you meet your professional safari guide who provides a short briefing before departing for Tarangire National Park. Tarangire is famous for its ancient baobab trees and large elephant populations. As you enter the park, the landscape opens into golden savannah dotted with acacia trees and seasonal swamps. The Tarangire River attracts wildlife throughout the year.

Tarangire Simba Lodge

Ngorongoro Crater Exploration

Ngorongoro Crater

After breakfast, depart for the breathtaking Ngorongoro Crater, UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Africa’s most remarkable natural wonders You descend 600 meters into the crater floor for a full-day safari. The crater hosts one of the highest concentrations of wildlife in Africa. Here, you may spot the Big Five lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and the rare black rhino The scenery is spectacular: open grasslands, acacia forests, and Lake Magadi, where flamingos gather along the shoreline.

Country Lodge Karatu

Journey to Serengeti National Park

Serengeti

After breakfast, travel toward the legendary Serengeti National Park. The drive itself is scenic, passing through highlands and Maasai villages before reaching the endless plains of the Serengeti. Upon arrival, enjoy an afternoon game drive. The Serengeti is world-famous for its vast landscapes and extraordinary wildlife density. Depending on the season, you may witness part of the Great Migration, where thousands of wildebeests and zebras move across the plains.

Narudi Tented Camp

Full Day Game Drive in Serengeti

Serengeti

Today is dedicated entirely to exploring the Serengeti. Early morning game drives offer the best chance to see predators in action. As the sun rises over the plains, the park comes alive with movement. You may encounter large lion prides, elephants crossing the savannah, and herds of antelope grazing peacefully. The Serengeti ecosystem supports incredible biodiversity, making every game drive unique.

Narudi Tented Camp

Morning Safari & Flight Back

Enjoy an early morning game drive, one last opportunity to witness Serengeti’s wildlife. After breakfast, transfer to the airstrip for your scheduled flight back to Zanzibar Island. Upon arrival, you are transferred to your beach resort. The atmosphere changes from wild savannah to tranquil ocean breeze. Spend the rest of the day relaxing by the beach or swimming in the warm Indian Ocean waters.

Tembo House Hotel

Stone Town & Marine Adventure

After breakfast, explore historic Stone Town, a UNESCO-listed cultural center known for its narrow streets, carved wooden doors, and vibrant markets. Learn about Zanzibar’s rich Swahili, Arab, and European heritage. Optional visits include Prison Island to see giant tortoises or a spice farm tour to discover why Zanzibar is called the “Spice Island.

Tembo House Hotel

Beach Relaxation & Departure

Your final day is dedicated to relaxation. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast overlooking the ocean. Spend your morning swimming, sunbathing, or enjoying optional water sports. At the appropriate time, transfer to Zanzibar International Airport for your departure flight, marking the end of your unforgettable Tanzania safari and island escape.

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