Arusha → Tarangire → Serengeti → Ngorongoro → Lake Eyasi → Zanzibar
This 8-day safari and beach escape combines 6 days of thrilling wildlife adventure with 2 days of island relaxation. Journey through Tarangire's baobabs, Serengeti's endless plains, Ngorongoro Crater's wildlife concentration, and authentic cultural experiences with Hadzabe and Maasai communities. Complete your adventure with peaceful beach days on Zanzibar's pristine shores.
Arusha → Tarangire → Serengeti → Ngorongoro → Lake Eyasi → Zanzibar
Parks and places: Tarangire, Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Lake Eyasi, Zanzibar.
Land at Kilimanjaro International Airport and transfer to Arusha (57km, 1 hour). Along the way, notice locals cycling, small markets, and distant views of Mount Kilimanjaro. Upon arrival at Planet Lodge, settle in, enjoy gardens or pool, and ease into Africa's slower pace. Evening safari briefing prepares you for adventure ahead.
After breakfast, head to Tarangire National Park (130km, 2.5 hours). Scenery shifts to open countryside with Maasai herders and cattle. Enter Tarangire welcomed by towering baobab trees. Wildlife viewing begins immediately - elephants, giraffes, zebras, antelope near Tarangire River. Game drive through varied terrain with guide sharing insights. Picnic lunch in the bush before continuing afternoon safari. Arrive at Siafu Serenity Lodge for peaceful night.
Journey to world-renowned Serengeti National Park (305km, 4 hours). Drive through changing landscapes from fertile highlands to vast open plains. Enter Serengeti where horizon stretches endlessly. Safari starts immediately with opportunities to spot lions, herds grazing. Arrive at Heritage Tented Camp surrounded by nature. Evening brings magical atmosphere with distant animal calls and star-filled sky.
Full day exploring Serengeti, Africa's most iconic ecosystem. Early morning start when wildlife is most active, soft light perfect for photography. Guide tracks wildlife movements to best viewing opportunities. See lions after night hunt, cheetahs scanning plains, elephants moving steadily. Depending on season, witness Great Migration with thousands of wildebeest and zebras. Picnic lunch in bush with time to appreciate surroundings. Sunset transforms Serengeti into peaceful unforgettable experience.
Highlight of safari - descend into spectacular Ngorongoro Crater, Africa's "Garden of Eden." Within massive caldera, wildlife incredibly concentrated - lions, elephants, buffalo, hyenas, flamingos near soda lake. Small area allows excellent wildlife viewing. Picnic lunch in scenic spot within crater surrounded by dramatic landscapes. Afternoon ascend rim and continue to Lake Eyasi. Environment quieter and more remote, preparing for cultural experience focused on human connection.
Final safari day begins at quiet Lake Eyasi shores. Home to Hadzabe and Datoga communities offering rare cultural experience. Walk with Hadzabe demonstrating traditional hunting techniques or visit Datoga to learn craftsmanship. Raw and authentic moments connecting deeply to Tanzania's cultural roots. Visit Maasai village at Mto wa Mbu with vibrant traditions through storytelling, dance, and daily activities. After enriching morning, transfer to airport for flight to Zanzibar. Immediate shift from bush tones to turquoise Indian Ocean hues. Transfer to beach resort for calm coastal atmosphere.
Day to enjoy at your own pace. Relax on white sandy beaches, swim in warm ocean waters, or explore island culture. Optional experiences include spice tours, snorkeling, or wandering through historic streets of Stone Town. Balance of relaxation and discovery.
Journey ends as you depart Zanzibar. Leave with more than memories - carry the feeling of Africa with you, a connection to its landscapes, wildlife, and people that will stay long after you return home.
Lodges are subject to availability; we confirm them, or equivalents of the same standard, in your quote.
Meals are listed for each day in the itinerary above. Activities on this trip include game drives in Tarangire, game drives in Serengeti, game drives in Ngorongoro, game drives in Lake Eyasi, and free time on Zanzibar.
Yes. You can follow this itinerary as written or change the length, the lodges, the parks or the pace. Tell us what you would like and we will send an adjusted itinerary and price.
Tell us which you prefer. A private safari gives you your own vehicle and driver-guide; a shared safari lowers the cost. We will quote the option you choose for your dates.
Serengeti: late June to October for dry-season game viewing and river crossings in the north; December to March for calving on the southern plains. Tarangire: best in the dry season (June to October), when elephants gather along the river. Ngorongoro Crater and Lake Manyara: good all year. Zanzibar: June to October and December to February; April and May are the wettest months.
Not included: International & Domestic Flights; Visa Fees for Tanzania; Travel Insurance (highly recommended); Optional Activities: Hot Air Balloon Safari in Serengeti; Alcoholic & Soft Drinks (unless specified); Personal Expenses (laundry, souvenirs, telephone calls); Tips & Gratuities for guide, driver, and lodge staff; Any Additional Accommodation or Activities not in itinerary.
A 30% deposit confirms your booking and the balance is due 60 days before arrival (full payment if you book within 60 days). Accepted payment methods are listed on your written quote. See our Booking Terms for full details. Cancellations must be made in writing. More than 60 days before departure: full refund minus a 10% administrative fee. 31–60 days: 50% refund. 15–30 days: 25% refund. Less than 15 days: no refund. We strongly recommend travel insurance. Full details are in our Booking Terms.
Read what travelers say about planning their safari with us.
Read More Traveler Reviews on TripAdvisorBegin the day with scenic flight from Zanzibar to Arusha Airport, leaving behind turquoise coastline as you head back toward mainland. Upon arrival, safari guide war…
Priced to your dates and group
You arrive in Tanzania to warm air and wide-open skies, where your safari story begins. After personal welcome, you transfer to Arusha, a calm town nestled beneath M…
Priced to your dates and group
This 9 days journey is crafted to help you experience the very best of Tanzania in comfort and style. From the famous Big Five safari parks to the beautiful beaches…
Priced to your dates and group
Keep it as it is or change anything.