Tanzania Safari & Zanzibar Packages

What to expect on a safari in Tanzania?

Parked in the shade of a colossal Sycamore fig tree, which clings to the riverbank, you watch a large group of elephants enter the river to drink.

Amidst the legs of the females, you catch a glimpse of a baby elephant. As the herd settles into their surroundings, the baby gains confidence, and frolics along the riverbank, flapping its ears and cantering with its tail upright.

Standing through the roof of your vehicle, you can take unobstructed photos. Suddenly, the mother elephant emits a low vibrating call, summoning the baby back. Within moments, the herd disappears into the bush, leaving you with a unique safari experience to savour forever.

When visiting Tanzania’s large parks, opting for a guided safari rather than a self-driving safari is recommended due to poor road conditions and unfamiliar driving styles.

At Tanzania-Experience, we offer customised 4×4 Toyota Land Cruisers with large windows, a roof hatch, and USB ports for your comfort and safety. Our expert guides will be your driver and one of the many highlights of your safari.

You can choose between a private or group safari when planning your safari.

Private safaris offer more flexibility with dates, destinations, and a private guide and vehicle.

On a scheduled group safari, there is a maximum of 7 guests per group, so you’re guaranteed a window seat. You can choose from our pre-planned itineraries or read our overview of where to go.

To stretch your legs or to see Tanzania differently whilst on safari, you can add several exciting activities to your itinerary, such as a trek, guided walking safari, boat safari, and balloon safaris.

Regardless of your choices, you can expect an unforgettable safari with excellent game-watching opportunities whilst overnighting in intimate places to stay that treat you like a guest rather than a room number.

What to expect on a Zanzibar beach holiday?

On board a traditional Dhow boat, small waves crash against the wooden hull, creating a refreshing mist of seawater. The tall white sail catches the wind, contrasting beautifully against the endless shades of blue from the sky and sea. In the distance, you see white brushstrokes, which are sails of other dhows fishing traditionally along the Swahili coastline.

Upon reaching the coral reef, you dive into the crystal-clear warm water. Your snorkelling adventure coincides with the migration of the Whale Shark, offering you a unique opportunity to swim alongside the world’s largest fish.

For lunch on the shore, you crack open the shell of a large crab and indulge in the most delicious seafood you’ve ever tasted.

Afterwards, you find a palm tree to sit under with a good book, enjoying the gentle afternoon breeze on the pristine beach. Feeling disconnected from the world, you can reflect on life with a clear mind.

As night falls, the moonlight illuminates the calm ocean. Bronzed from the sun, you make your way to a table for two on the veranda whilst carrying your favourite beverage. The world’s best seafood combined with ‘Tanza-fusion’ recipes made from locally grown spices and vegetables create a truly delicious dinner.

In your room, you hear the waves breaking on the shore as you lie on your four-posted bed with a fitted mosquito net. The wooden ceiling fan spins silently, creating a perfect setting for one of the best night’s sleep of your life.

Most travellers end their safari with a romantic coastal experience. It’s no wonder why, with so many incredible places to stay and to recharge.

There are several incredible locations to choose from, such as the mainland, Unguja (known as Zanzibar), Pemba, and Mafia Islands.

If you’re unsure where to go but have an idea of the experience you’re after, contact one of our country experts, who will gladly help you find the perfect destination.

Additionally, Zanzibar offers a variety of exciting activities to participate in, ranging from spice tours to diving and snorkelling.

How can I combine a Tanzania safari and a Zanzibar beach getaway?

Organising a Tanzania safari and a beach getaway in one go is easy and stress-free with Tanzania-Experience. Once your safari is organised, all that’s left is to select from various stunning beaches.

Mainland beaches

The mainland has beautiful, yet lesser-known, white beaches that are definitely worth visiting. Bagamoyo, Pangani, and Saadani National Park are just a few of the many beautiful places to explore.

Saadani National Park, where the savannah meets the beach, is a relatively young park where you will enjoy a unique experience. Here, you can experience a morning game drive or a boat safari on the Wami River, followed by a relaxing afternoon on the beach.

Zanzibar Beaches

Being based in-country, we can provide you with a seamless transit from the mainland to the Zanzibar archipelago. We will arrange a short flight from Arusha to Zanzibar (ZNZ), where our team will welcome you and take you to your beach retreat on the following islands: Unguja (Zanzibar), Pemba, or Mafia.

If you bring your diving equipment, store it in our office while on safari. We also organise your transfers to ensure a seamless experience.

We are dedicated to helping you plan your ideal safari and beach vacation. Our team of specialists is available to assist you at any time. Contact them to learn about all of the options available.

Tanzania and Zanzibar – best time to visit

The best time for an unforgettable Tanzania safari and Zanzibar beach holiday combination package is the dry season.

The months from June to October are the driest. During this time, national parks such as the Serengeti National Park and Tarangire National Park are particularly attractive, as animals gather around water sources and the vegetation is less dense, making wildlife spotting easier.

From June to October, Zanzibar also enjoys pleasant temperatures (22-29°C) with little rainfall, providing perfect conditions for a relaxing beach holiday.

Alternatively, January to February is also a good option, as it is another dry period. However, Zanzibar experiences very hot weather during this time, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C.

The long rainy season from March to May is less suitable, as many safari roads may become impassable, and it is also the wettest time of the year on the Zanzibar archipelago.

How to get to Zanzibar from Tanzania

The fastest and most convenient way to travel from Tanzania to Zanzibar is by plane. Several airports offer daily connections to the main island, Unguja, as well as the smaller Pemba Island. Mafia Island can also be reached by air.

Depending on where you finish your safari, you can depart not only from major airports like Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) near Arusha, but also from smaller airstrips within national parks, such as Seronera (SEU) in the Serengeti. The flight time varies depending on the departure location, typically ranging from 50 to 90 minutes.

Upon arrival in Zanzibar, our team will welcome you and transfer you to your beach accommodation on the island.