9 Days Tanzania Big Five Safari & Zanzibar Island Escape

Trip Highlights

Combine Tanzania’s legendary wildlife safaris with the turquoise waters and white-sand beaches of Zanzibar. Witness the majestic elephants of Tarangire, explore the predator-rich Serengeti, and descend into the Ngorongoro Crater for a chance to see the Big Five. After unforgettable game drives, fly to Zanzibar to relax on pristine beaches, enjoy cultural excursions, or indulge in water-based activities. This itinerary perfectly balances adventure, wildlife, and relaxation.

Safari Type

Combo Tour

Number of Days

9 Days

Day-by-Day

FULL ITINERARY

Day 1

Arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport – Transfer to Arusha

Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), meet your Thamani African Safaris guide and transfer to your hotel in Arusha.

Settle in, relax after your journey, and enjoy a welcome dinner while receiving a briefing on the upcoming adventure. Take in views of Mount Meru and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of Arusha.

Overnight | Gran Melia Arusha

Day 2

Day 2

Full-Day Safari in Tarangire National Park – Elephants & Baobabs

Drive about two hours to Tarangire National Park, renowned for its large elephant herds and iconic baobab trees. Explore the park’s varied habitats, spotting lions, leopards, giraffes, zebras, and over 500 bird species.

Watch for giraffes browsing treetops, elephants bathing in rivers, and predators stealthily moving through the savannah. Enjoy a scenic picnic lunch in the bush before returning to your lodge for sundowners and dinner.

Overnight | Marera Valley Lodge

Day 3

Day 3

Scenic Drive to Serengeti with Wildlife En Route

Journey through the Great Rift Valley and Ngorongoro Highlands toward the Serengeti. Stop at the Ngorongoro viewpoint for panoramic photographs and enjoy game viewing along the way.

Enter the Serengeti through Naabi Hill Gate and begin your first game drive in Central Serengeti. Capture the golden hour as wildlife roams the endless plains.

Overnight | Safari Haven Serengeti Camp

Day 4

Day 4

Full-Day Game Drive in Serengeti National Park – Big Five & Predator Action

Spend a full day exploring the Serengeti’s iconic landscapes. Search for the Big Five—lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino—alongside cheetahs, hyenas, and hippos.

Witness dramatic predator-prey interactions and herds of wildebeest or zebras stretching across the horizon. Enjoy a picnic lunch in the bush and return to your lodge for dinner at sunset.

Overnight | Safari Haven Serengeti Camp

Day 5

Day 5

Ngorongoro Crater Safari – Big Five & Scenic Views

After breakfast, drive to Ngorongoro Conservation Area and descend 600 meters into the crater floor, one of Africa’s most wildlife-dense ecosystems.

Spot black rhinos, lions, elephants, buffalo, and flamingos in the soda lakes. Take lunch at a scenic picnic site near hippo pools, then ascend the crater rim for panoramic views and drive to your lodge for dinner.

Overnight | Farm of Dream Lodge

Day 6

Day 6

Transfer to Arusha – Fly to Zanzibar – Beach Resort Arrival

Enjoy breakfast at the lodge before returning to Arusha for lunch. Transfer to Arusha Airport (ARK) for a flight to Zanzibar.

Upon arrival, you’ll be transferred to your beach resort. Relax on white-sand beaches, take a dip in the turquoise waters, or enjoy a sunset cocktail overlooking the Indian Ocean.

Overnight | Sea Cliff Zanzibar

Day 7

Day 7

Leisure and Optional Activities in Zanzibar

Spend the day at leisure, choosing from snorkeling, scuba diving, sailing on a traditional dhow, or visiting Stone Town—a UNESCO World Heritage Site rich in Swahili history.

Explore spice farms, stroll through local villages, or relax at the beach. Capture memorable photos and enjoy the tropical ambiance.

Overnight | Sea Cliff Zanzibar

Day 8

Day 8

Full-Day Relaxation or Exploration

Take another day to unwind or enjoy light adventures such as kayaking, yoga sessions, or a spa treatment.

Explore nearby villages or simply soak up the sun and ocean breeze on the beach. This is your chance to relax fully before departure.

Overnight | Sea Cliff Zanzibar

Day 9

Day 9

Morning at Leisure – Transfer to Zanzibar Airport – Departure

After breakfast, enjoy your final morning on the beach. Take a swim, stroll along the shore, or simply enjoy the peaceful surroundings. Transfer to Zanzibar International Airport for your onward journey, leaving with memories of both Tanzania’s wild savannahs and Zanzibar’s tropical paradise.

Prices Per Person Sharing

2 Pax 3 Pax 4 Pax
$3,267
$2,860
$2,707

Price Includes

  • Private 4×4 safari vehicle with pop-up roof
  • English-speaking professional safari guide
  • Domestic flight from Arusha to Zanzibar
  • Accommodation as listed (full board on safari, breakfast on Zanzibar)
  • Park and conservation fees
  • Game drives, cultural visits, and beach transfers
  • Airport transfers to and from Kilimanjaro and Zanzibar

Price Excludes

  • International flights and visas
  • Travel insurance
  • Tips for guides, drivers, and lodge staff
  • Alcoholic drinks and soft drinks
  • Personal expenses and optional activities

Enquire This Tour

Enquire This Tour

Unique, authentic, and memorable travel experiences

Looking to start planning an incredible adventure? Plan a truly bespoke experience with our Travel Designers today.

Other Related Packages

Honeymoon Safari Serengeti & Ngorongoro

Northern Tanzania Wildlife & Cultural Safari