11-Day Tanzania & Zanzibar Safari Adventure
Welcome to the 11-Day Tanzania & Zanzibar Safari Trip, a once-in-a-lifetime experience designed by Terenga Safaris to immerse you in the full essence of Tanzania’s most iconic destinations. This incredible journey seamlessly blends thrilling African safaris across legendary parks like Tarangire, Serengeti, and Ngorongoro Crater, with blissful beach days on the exotic island of Zanzibar. From the dense wilderness teeming with wildlife to the azure blue waters and white sands of the Indian Ocean, this itinerary is tailored for explorers, photographers, romantics, and families alike.
Our expert safari guides, luxurious hand-picked accommodations, and seamless transfers ensure that you travel in comfort while experiencing the raw beauty of Tanzania. You’ll spot Africa’s famed Big Five – lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhino – along with hundreds of bird species, wildebeests, giraffes, and more. Stand in awe on the floor of a collapsed volcano surrounded by animals, and feel the rush of traversing the vast Serengeti plains.
And just when your heart is full of wilderness, we fly you to Zanzibar, where the rhythm of island life will help you unwind. Whether you choose to explore Stone Town’s Swahili culture, snorkel among coral reefs, or simply laze under swaying palms, your experience will be enriched by the colors, flavors, and charm of this unique coastal haven. Let Terenga Safaris guide you through the finest that Tanzania has to offer—wild and wonderful.
Detailed 11-Day Tanzania & Zanzibar Safari
Arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport
Your 11-Day Tanzania & Zanzibar Safari adventure begins as you touch down at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO). A personal Terenga Safaris representative warmly welcomes you with a cheerful “Karibu Tanzania!” meaning “Welcome to Tanzania!” After assisting with your luggage, you’ll be transferred to your selected lodge or boutique hotel in Arusha, a tranquil town that sits at the base of Mount Meru and serves as the ideal starting point for northern circuit safaris.
Settle into your accommodations and enjoy a delicious dinner prepared with local ingredients. Depending on your arrival time, you may take a walk in the hotel garden, enjoy a traditional Tanzanian tea, or even have a short city tour to get acquainted with Arusha’s culture and bustling local markets.
Accommodation Options:
- Silver: Ahadi Lodge
- Gold: Arusha Villa
- Platinum: Ngare Sero Mountain Lodge
Included: Airport transfer, accommodation, dinner
Tarangire National Park – Elephants, Baobabs & More
After breakfast, your 11-Day Tanzania & Zanzibar Safari guide picks you up for a scenic drive to Tarangire National Park, located about two and a half hours from Arusha. This park is a hidden gem on the northern safari circuit, known for its dense elephant population, towering baobab trees, and breathtaking landscapes. The Tarangire River, a lifeline for wildlife especially during the dry season, winds through the park creating dramatic scenes as herds gather to quench their thirst.
Expect to see large herds of elephants, buffalo, zebras, impalas, and possibly even elusive leopards and lions stalking prey. Over 550 bird species have been recorded in the park, making it a paradise for birdwatchers.
After a picnic lunch in a designated viewpoint, continue your afternoon game drive through varied terrains including open grasslands, swamps, and woodlands. By evening, you’ll drive to your lodge perched on the Great Rift Valley escarpment or nestled in a lush garden setting.
Accommodation Options:
- Silver: Manyara Best View Lodge & Spa
- Gold: Manyara’s Secret
- Platinum: Lake Manyara Kilimamoja Lodge by Wellworth
Included: Breakfast, lunch, dinner, park fees, game drive, accommodation
Serengeti National Park – Icon of the Wild
Over the next two days, get ready to delve deep into the heart of the Serengeti National Park, Tanzania’s most celebrated safari destination. After breakfast, depart for Serengeti through the Ngorongoro highlands with a brief stop at the Olduvai Gorge (optional), the cradle of humankind.
The central Serengeti (Seronera region) is rich in wildlife throughout the year due to its perennial water supply. Here, you’ll witness vast herds of zebras, gazelles, and wildebeests, and the predators that follow them – lions, cheetahs, leopards, and hyenas. The expansive golden plains stretch endlessly, broken only by rocky kopjes where lions often sunbathe.
Enjoy morning and afternoon game drives or opt for a hot air balloon safari at sunrise (extra cost) to get an aerial view of the animals below. Return to your tented camp each evening to dine under the stars, recounting the day’s adventures beside a crackling campfire.
Accommodation Options:
- Silver: Sueños de África Luxury Camp
- Gold: Asanja Moru
- Platinum: Serengeti Sametu Camp by Karibu Camps & Lodges
Included: Breakfast, lunch, dinner, park fees, daily game drives, accommodation
Ngorongoro Crater – Eden of Africa
Today you head to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, descending into the spectacular Ngorongoro Crater, the largest intact volcanic caldera in the world. This lush, 2,000-foot-deep basin acts like a natural enclosure for wildlife, creating one of the densest concentrations of animals in Africa.
As you traverse the crater floor, expect to see large herds of buffalo, wildebeest, zebra, and elephants, along with healthy populations of lions and, if you’re lucky, a rare black rhino. The crater also hosts flamingos, hippos, and over 400 bird species. With lakes, forests, swamps, and savanna, it provides every kind of habitat for a wide range of wildlife.
Enjoy a picnic lunch at one of the scenic picnic sites, perhaps near Ngoitoktok Springs, and continue your game drive into the afternoon. Later, ascend the crater walls and head to your overnight lodge.
Accommodation Options:
- Silver & Gold: Manyara Best View Lodge & Spa
- Platinum: Ngorongoro O’ldeani Mountain Lodge by Wellworth
Included: Breakfast, lunch, dinner, crater tour, park fees, accommodation
Flight to Zanzibar – Tropical Transition
After breakfast, you’ll be driven to the airstrip for your domestic flight to Zanzibar. Upon arrival at Zanzibar International Airport, you are warmly received and transferred to your beachfront hotel.
Zanzibar, often called the “Spice Island,” is a perfect contrast to the wild savannahs of mainland Tanzania. Spend your afternoon unwinding with panoramic views of the Indian Ocean, or take a refreshing dip in the pool or sea.
Accommodation Options:
- Silver: Fun Beach Resort
- Gold: Next Paradise Boutique Resort
- Platinum: Qambani Luxury Resort
Included: Breakfast, airport transfers, domestic flight, accommodation
Zanzibar Exploration and Relaxation
The next three days are dedicated to enjoying Zanzibar’s pristine beaches and rich culture. Whether you prefer lounging under palm trees, or engaging in water-based activities such as snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking, or sailing on a traditional dhow, there’s something for everyone.
We highly recommend a visit to Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with ancient buildings, bustling bazaars, and the legacy of Swahili, Arab, Indian, and European influences. Explore the House of Wonders, Old Fort, and local spice markets. Take a spice plantation tour to learn about the island’s historical role in the global spice trade.
Food lovers can indulge in a Swahili cooking class or simply dine by the beach with grilled seafood and tropical cocktails.
Accommodation Options:
- Silver: Fun Beach Resort
- Gold: Next Paradise Boutique Resort
- Platinum: Qambani Luxury Resort Zanzibar
Included: Breakfast, accommodation, optional tours (extra cost)
Departure from Zanzibar International Airport
On your final day, enjoy a relaxed morning on the beach or do some last-minute shopping for souvenirs. Depending on your flight time, you may wish to take a brief excursion or just unwind at the resort. Your 11-Day Tanzania & Zanzibar Safari driver will pick you up and transfer you to Zanzibar International Airport (ZNZ) for your outbound flight.
Should you wish to continue your adventure, we can extend your stay to Mnemba Island, Mafia Island, or Pemba, each offering unique diving and cultural experiences.
Included: Breakfast, airport transfer
11-Day Tanzania & Zanzibar Safari Inclusions and Exclusions
Safari Inclusions:
- Private 4×4 safari vehicle with pop-up roof
- Professional English-speaking safari guide/driver
- Park entrance fees and conservation levies
- Full-board safari accommodation
- Daily game drives as specified
- Bottled drinking water during game drives
- Domestic flight to Zanzibar
- Airport transfers in Arusha and Zanzibar
- Bed and breakfast accommodation in Zanzibar
- Emergency medical evacuation cover (AMREF Flying Doctors)
Safari Exclusions:
- International flights and entry visa fees
- Travel and medical insurance
- Tips and gratuities to driver-guide and hotel staff
- Optional activities in Zanzibar (e.g., diving, Stone Town tours)
- Alcoholic beverages and soft drinks unless specified
- Personal expenses (laundry, souvenirs, communication, etc.)
Plan your escape with Terenga Safaris and let us show you the untamed beauty and coastal serenity of Tanzania in one extraordinary journey.