14-Day Tanzania Safari & Zanzibar Escape – Big Five & Tropical Beaches

Arrival in Arusha – Gateway to Your Safari Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you’ll be warmly welcomed by your guide and transferred to your lodge in Arusha. After check-in at Parrot Hotel Arusha, a cozy mid-range property surrounded by lush gardens, you’ll have time to relax and recover from your journey. If time permits, you may take a short walk through Arusha town or enjoy a refreshing drink while watching the sunset.

Tarangire National Park – Land of Giants After breakfast, your journey begins with a scenic drive to Tarangire National Park, known for its massive elephant herds, ancient baobab trees, and rich biodiversity. Game drives through this breathtaking park will offer sightings of lions, buffaloes, giraffes, zebras, wildebeests, and vibrant birdlife. Later in the afternoon, you’ll head to Karatu for dinner and overnight at the peaceful Bougainvillea Safari Lodge.

Karatu to Northern Serengeti – Into the Wild An early start takes you through the scenic Ngorongoro Highlands and into Serengeti National Park. Today’s long but rewarding drive takes you all the way to the northern plains, where the Great Migration often gathers near the Mara River. You’ll enjoy game drives along the way and reach Ang’ata Migration Bologonja Camp for dinner and rest in the heart of the wilderness.

Full-Day Game Drive – Northern Serengeti & Mara River Today is dedicated to exploring the Northern Serengeti, with a focus on the Mara River, where dramatic wildebeest river crossings take place between July and October. Expect to witness predator-prey action as crocodiles lie in wait and big cats patrol the plains. Enjoy a picnic lunch in the wild and continue game drives until sunset before returning to camp.

Transfer to Central Serengeti – Wildlife & Scenery After breakfast, you’ll head south through the Serengeti ecosystem. This route offers great chances to spot lions, leopards, elephants, and antelopes. You’ll arrive at your central Serengeti camp by afternoon and enjoy an evening game drive around the Seronera Valley, home to permanent water sources and abundant wildlife.

Full-Day Safari in Central Serengeti Spend the entire day exploring the Central Serengeti, an area known for large predator populations and vast herds of herbivores. Morning and afternoon game drives will increase your chances of spotting lions, cheetahs, hyenas, and possibly leopards. Enjoy a picnic lunch under an acacia tree before returning to camp for dinner.

Final Game Drive & Return to Arusha Begin the day with a final early morning game drive to catch predators in action. After breakfast, you’ll exit the park and drive back to Arusha, passing through the Ngorongoro Highlands. Enjoy lunch en route and arrive in the early evening for a well-earned rest at Parrot Hotel Arusha.

Flight to Zanzibar – Welcome to the Beach After breakfast, you’ll be transferred to Arusha Airport for your flight to Zanzibar Island. Upon arrival, your driver will escort you to your beachfront resort. Check-in at Sunset Kendwa, a laid-back tropical escape with white sand beaches and turquoise waters, and spend the afternoon relaxing.

Beach Day – Optional Activities (Extra Cost) Spend the day at leisure on Kendwa Beach, one of the most beautiful stretches of sand in Zanzibar. Optional activities available at extra cost include snorkeling, scuba diving, dhow sailing, or simply relaxing with a tropical drink under the palms.

Explore Historic Stone Town Today you’ll explore Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Wander through narrow alleys with a local guide, visiting the Old Fort, the House of Wonders, and the site of the former slave market. Soak in the cultural blend of African, Arab, and European history. Return to your beach hotel afterward.

Blue Lagoon Experience (Optional Tour) Embark on an optional full-day excursion to the Blue Lagoon. This tour includes snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, dhow sailing, a seafood lunch, and a chance to relax on secluded beaches. You might even spot dolphins in the open sea.

Kayaking, Photography & Beach Fun (Optional) Enjoy a relaxing day on the beach or take part in optional activities such as kayaking, paddle boarding, or a mini beach photo shoot. Capture unforgettable memories as you glide over the shallow waters or simply enjoy another lazy beach day.

Nakupenda Sandbank & Sunset Dhow Cruise (Optional) Set out on a boat trip to Nakupenda Sandbank, where you’ll swim, snorkel, and enjoy a seafood BBQ on a remote sandbar. After a restful afternoon, consider ending your day with a sunset dhow cruise—a romantic sail along the coast as the sun sets over the Indian Ocean.

Departure from Zanzibar – Farewell Tanzania Today marks the end of your unforgettable adventure. Depending on your flight time, you may have time to shop for souvenirs or enjoy one last walk on the beach. Your driver will transfer you to Zanzibar International Airport for your onward flight.