8 Day Tanzania Elephant Safari and Zanzibar Beach

5/5
Based on 2 Reviews

About this tour

This 8-day Wildlife and Cultural Budget Experience masterfully combines the iconic highlights of Tanzania’s Northern Safari Circuit with the idyllic relaxation of Zanzibar’s spice islands. The adventure begins with thrilling game drives in Lake Manyara National Park, the vast Serengeti plains, and the incredible Ngorongoro Crater, offering unparalleled opportunities to spot the Big Five and witness the Great Migration.

Following the bush adventure, you’ll fly to the historic island of Zanzibar. Here, your pace changes from wildlife tracking to cultural exploration and beachside tranquility. You’ll have the freedom to explore Stone Town’s labyrinthine alleys, enjoy a traditional sunset cruise on a local dhow, and relax on the famed turquoise shores of Nungwi Beach. This itinerary offers a perfect, balanced blend of African wildlife excitement and Indian Ocean serenity, all structured for the value-conscious traveler.

At Glance

Customization

This tour can be customized

Duration

8 Days

Minimum Age

3 years

Countries

Tanzania

Comfort Level

Budget

Maximum Group Size

Any group size

Physical Level

Moderate

What to expect

  • Track the Big Five and search for tree-climbing lions in Lake Manyara National Park.
  • Experience the vast, wildlife-rich plains of the Serengeti over two full days.
  • Descend into the unique, enclosed ecosystem of the world-famous Ngorongoro Crater.
  • Fly to Zanzibar to explore the historic streets and spice markets of Stone Town.
  • Enjoy a traditional sunset dhow cruise along the beautiful coastline of Nungwi.
  • Relax with ample free time to enjoy the white-sand beaches and turquoise waters.
  • Travel on safari in a private 4×4 vehicle with an experienced guide.
  • Benefit from included internal flights between Arusha and Zanzibar.

Best time

  • All year round

Best for

  • Adventure Travellers
  • Budget Travellers
  • Cultural Experiences
  • Group Travellers

Getting There

  • This Tour starts in Arusha, Ends in Zanzibar
  • Your flight should arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO)

Transportation

  • Game drive transport is by 4×4 Closed pop-up roof vehicle
  • Transfer between destinations is by 4×4 Closed pop-up roof vehicle
  • Airport transfer is by 4×4 Closed pop-up roof vehicle

Trip Itinerary

Day 1:

Lake Manyara National Park

Upon your arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you will be met by your Safari under the sky guide. Without delay, you’ll begin your adventure with a drive to Lake Manyara National Park. This beautiful park, set against the steep escarpment of the Great Rift Valley, is famous for its unique tree-climbing lions and large flocks of flamingos that paint the alkaline lake pink.

Your first game drive will take you through groundwater forests, acacia woodlands, and along the lakeshore, searching for elephants, giraffes, hippos, and myriad bird species. After a picnic lunch in the park, the afternoon offers further exploration before you drive to your nearby lodge to settle in and reflect on your first exciting day in the Tanzanian bush.

Main Activities

  • Game Drive

Transport

  • 4x4 Closed pop-up roof vehicle

Meals

  • Dinner

Drinks

  • Mineral Water

Accommodation

Day 2: Serengeti

After breakfast, you embark on a scenic and game-filled drive towards the legendary Serengeti National Park. The journey itself is an adventure as you pass through the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, with chances to spot animals along the way. You’ll stop at a viewpoint to absorb the stunning panorama of the vast plains that stretch to the horizon.

You will arrive at your lodge in time for lunch and a short rest. In the afternoon, you’ll head out for your first official Serengeti game drive. Your guide will begin tracking wildlife in this iconic ecosystem, famous for its immense herds and high density of predators. You’ll return to the lodge as the sun sets, painting the sky in brilliant colors.

Main Activities

  • Game Drive

Transport

  • 4x4 Closed pop-up roof vehicle

Meals

  • Full Board

Drinks

  • Drinking water, Mineral Water

Accommodation

Day 3: Serengeti

Today is fully dedicated to immersing yourself in the wonders of the Serengeti. You may choose an optional hot air balloon safari at dawn for a breathtaking aerial perspective. After breakfast, you’ll set out with a packed lunch for a full-day game drive. Your expert guide will navigate the diverse habitats, from kopjes (rocky outcrops) to riverine forests, in search of the Big Five, cheetahs, and hyenas.

Depending on the season, you may encounter the awe-inspiring spectacle of the Great Migration, where millions of wildebeest and zebras thunder across the plains. You’ll enjoy a picnic lunch in the bush before continuing your exploration, ending another unforgettable day in the African wilderness.

Main Activities

  • Game Drive

Transport

  • 4x4 Closed pop-up roof vehicle

Meals

  • Full Board

Drinks

  • Drinking water, Mineral Water

Accommodation

Day 4: Ngorongoro Crater

You’ll have an early start for the drive to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Descending 600 meters into the Ngorongoro Crater is a breathtaking experience. This UNESCO World Heritage Site and world’s largest intact volcanic caldera hosts an astonishing concentration of wildlife in a relatively small area, making it a true natural wonder.

You will spend the morning on a game drive on the crater floor, with excellent chances of seeing the rare black rhinoceros, lions, elephants, and massive herds of buffalo. A picnic lunch will be enjoyed by the hippo pool. After a final exploration in the afternoon, you’ll ascend the steep crater walls and drive to your comfortable lodge for a well-earned rest.

Transport

  • 4x4 Closed pop-up roof vehicle

Meals

  • Full Board

Drinks

  • Mineral Water

Accommodation

Day 5: Zanzibar

After a relaxing breakfast, you begin your journey back to Arusha, enjoying the changing landscapes of Tanzania’s highlands. Upon arrival in Arusha, you will stop for a hot lunch and have time to freshen up before transferring to the local airport for your scheduled flight to the spice island of Zanzibar.

Upon landing at Zanzibar Airport (ZNZ), you will be met and transferred to your beachfront hotel. The remainder of the evening is yours to enjoy at leisure. You can take your first stroll along the beach, feel the Indian Ocean breeze, and enjoy dinner independently, marking the beginning of the island portion of your trip.

Main Activities

  • Beach Relaxation

Transport

  • Domestic Fllight

Meals

  • Full Board

Drinks

  • Mineral Water

Accommodation

Day 6: Zanzibar

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast with the ocean as your backdrop. The morning is free for you to explore at your own pace; you may opt to visit the historic Stone Town, a UNESCO site, with its fascinating blend of Arabic, Persian, Indian, and European influences. You’ll have lunch at a local restaurant, savoring Zanzibari dishes rich with spices like cloves, cinnamon, and cardamom.

In the late afternoon, the highlight awaits: a sunset cruise on a traditional wooden dhow. Sail along the coast of Nungwi as the sky transforms into shades of orange and purple—a truly magical and photogenic experience. You’ll return to your hotel in the evening for dinner and overnight.

Main Activities

  • Beach Relaxation

Transport

  • Dhow Cruise

Meals

  • Full Board

Drinks

  • Mineral Water

Accommodation

Day 7: Zanzibar

Today is entirely yours to design based on your interests. You can simply relax on the pristine white sands of Nungwi Beach, consistently ranked among the world’s best. For more adventure, the hotel can assist in booking optional activities such as snorkeling or a dolphin tour in the clear blue waters, a spice farm visit, or a diving excursion.

You might choose to explore the local village or try your hand at water sports. It’s a perfect day to unwind, reflect on your safari adventures, and soak up the ultimate beach holiday atmosphere at your own perfect pace, with all meals at your leisure.

Main Activities

  • Beach Relaxation, Beach retreat

Transport

  • Dhow Cruise

Meals

  • Full Board

Drinks

  • Mineral Water

Accommodation

Day 8: Zanzibar

Savor your final tropical breakfast and perhaps take one last walk along the beach. Depending on your international flight schedule, you will have some free time in the morning to do some last-minute shopping for spices or souvenirs. You will then be transferred to Zanzibar International Airport (ZNZ) for your departure flight, marking the end of your incredible 8-day Tanzanian wildlife and beach experience.

Main Activities

  • Relaxation

Meals

  • Breakfast

Pricing

2026 Rates & Prices

Valid from January to December

PAX

Price per person sharing

2 People

US $3,123

3 People

US $2,757

4 People

US $2,523

Please note:

  • Prices are per person sharing (Ask a tour organizer for more price information)
  • Accommodations listed on this tours are subjected to availability, it may change depending on the time of booking
  • The price for this tour may also depends on government imposed charges. Please be in touch with the organizer of this tour at the moment of enquiring this tour.

Inclusions

Price Includes

  • A professional guide
  • All Accommodations
  • All meals
  • All transport
  • Park Fees

Price Excludes

  • Additional Accommodation after Safari
  • Additional excursions
  • Alcoholic Drinks
  • International Flight
  • Medical & Travel Insurance
  • Personal Item expense
  • Tips
  • Visa Fees

Payment Terms

Payments

  • Deposit: Typically 30% at time of booking (unless otherwise specified).
  • Balance: Due 60 days before departure.
  • If booking is made within 60 days of departure, full payment is due immediately.
  • Payments can be made via bank transfer, credit card (fees apply), or other agreed methods.
  • Reservations are not secured until the deposit is received.

Cancellation Policy

Cancellation by Client

Fees apply from the day written notice is received:

Days Before Departure Cancellation Fee
60+ days Loss of deposit
59-45 days 50% of total cost
44-30 days 75% of total cost
Less than 30 days 100% of total cost

Special notes:

  • No refunds for unused services (including no-shows or early departures).
  • Cancellation must be emailed.

Cancellation by Company

  1. We may cancel for safety, weather, operational issues, or force majeure.
  2. Client will be offered:
    • Alternative tour of similar value; or
    • Full refund of sums paid.
  3. We are not liable for additional costs clients incur (flights, visas, hotels) due to cancellation.

Other travel advice

We strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance covering:

  • Medical expenses;
  • Emergency evacuation;
  • Trip cancellation/interruption;
  • Personal effects.

Insurance is mandatory for certain activities (e.g., hot-air ballooning, mountain climbing).

Additional Information

  • Infants must sit in laps: Infants are required to sit on an adult's lap during the tour/activity.

Customer Reviews

5/5
  • Excellent
2 Reviews

Value for money5.0 / 5

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5/5 Based on 2 Reviews

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