12 day safari and beach [chance to see the Mara River crossing plus a direct flight to Zanzibar]

Embark on an unforgettable journey with us that transports you across two natural wonders and on a safari plane! During this safari, you will begin with a journey to Tarangire National Park, home to elephants and baobab trees, before continuing to the world-renowned Ngorongoro crater, the first wonder of Tanzania. Further north in Serengeti National Park lies the second marvel of nature, the Mara River crossing which, every year from late July into early October, if you are lucky enough to witness it, will be an unforgettable experience.

Just picture a herd of thousands of wildebeests and zebras running together, each making its own unique sound as it kicks up dust and defends itself from any predators it meets. As the Mara River teems with crocodiles, waiting to pounce on unsuspecting prey, the Wildebeest Migration is a breathtaking and exciting event to behold.

And when all that excitement gets too much, we will  whisk you away to the enchanted island of Zanzibar (excuse the pun!) on a safari plane so you can unwind on a peaceful tropical beach.

Highlights.

  • Day 1: Arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport
  • Day 2: Tarangire National Park
  • Day 3: Ngorongoro Conservation Area (incl. Crater)
  • Day 4: Serengeti National Park (central west/east)
  • Day 5: Northern Serengeti & the Great Migration (possibility to see the famous Mara River crossing)
  • Day 6: Northern Serengeti & the Great Migration (possibility to see the famous Mara River crossing)
  • Day 7: Flight to Zanzibar (included in the price)
  • Day 8: Zanzibar
  • Day 9: Zanzibar
  • Day 10: Zanzibar
  • Day 11 – 12: Flight home from Zanzibar Airport (ZNZ)

Detailed itinerary.

Day 1: Arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport.

Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you will be welcomed by our special Tanzania guide who will greet you with a broad smile  ‘Karibu Tanzania – welcome to Tanzania!’ The guide will direct you directly to your accommodation, allowing you to unwind and immerse yourself in the African guest houses. The following day, your guide will drive you on a private safari, enabling you to proceed at your preferred pace. Experience the opulence of your private safari jeep and take the freedom to pause and observe the wildlife for as long as you choose!

Day 2: Tarangire National Park

Enjoy your breakfast and drive into Tarangire National Park, the park known for its famous attractions such as  herds of elephants and an abundance of towering baobab trees. These trees can endure for centuries, and elephants use a unique method to extract water from them during the dry season. More than that, during the dry season in Tarangire, you can observe numerous creatures, including herds of up to 250 elephants, because the Tarangire River is the sole water source.

Day 3: Ngorongoro Conservation Area (incl. Crater)

Ngorongoro Crater is a world-renowned natural wonder and one of seven in Africa. A massive eruption of the volcano two million years ago created the crater. Because of the rich lava, a new ecosystem has emerged, and it is currently home to more creatures than any other place in Africa! When you reach the crater, you’ll be overwhelmed by the sight of thousands of animals, including lions, zebras, buffalo, and black rhinos.

Day 4: Serengeti National Park (central west/east)

On this day, enjoy your breakfast and Serengeti National Park is renowned as a premier safari destination, mostly because of the Great Migration that traverses the area. The colossal, stampeding herds are remarkable, as are the numerous predators inhabiting this region. While in Serengeti National Park, you will nearly view thousands of  lions, cheetahs,  leopards,  hyenas, and hundreds of wild dogs. Additionally, numerous other exquisite species, which your guide will eagerly assist you in locating.

Day 5 – 6: Northern Serengeti & the Great Migration (possibility to see the famous Mara River crossing)

Enjoy your breakfast on this day and start your trip as you cross the northern Serengeti grasslands, picture yourself among millions of zebras and wildebeests, all grunting and bleating as they try to ford a river teeming with crocodiles. The world-famous Mara River crossing of the Great Migration is a sight to behold in the northern section of Serengeti National Park every year from July to October. If you think watching the herds seek out better pastures is nerve-wracking, wait till you hear about the big cats waiting on the opposite side, ravenous for meat.

Day 7: Flight to Zanzibar (included in the price)

Zanzibar, the spice island, is your destination today. Upon arrival at the airport, our guide will transport you directly to your accommodation. In the days to come, you will be able to find pristine blue oceans, white sand beaches, and colorful coral reefs. The next stop should be Stone village, where you may learn all about the intriguing history of this little village. Those with a sweet tooth can also explore the local cuisine’s many flavors by seeing the spice plantations.

Day 8 – 10: Zanzibar

Enjoy your breakfast and start your day by discovering Zanzibar and having the most breathtaking tropical paradise! There is an air of surrealism about the picture-perfect white sand beaches bordered by palm trees and the pristine blue Gulf of Mexico. Relax on the beach for hours, sip on a fresh coconut drink, soak up some rays, and feast on some mouth-watering Zanzibar cuisine. Looking for a dynamic experience? After that, embark on an adventure across the island, ocean, and beach! On this day, I would also recommend that you visit the Safari Blue Cruise and the Stone Town excursion.

Day 11 – 12: Flight home from Zanzibar Airport (ZNZ)

This marks the last day of our safari. You will wake up very early in the morning and enjoy your breakfast then prepare for your journey. On this day, the amount of time you have to tour the island or unwind on the beach will depend on when your flight arrives. As soon as the time for your flight comes, you will be picked up by our guide and driven to the Zanzibar airport for your flight back. Additionally, you have the option to prolong your vacation to another island paradise like Mnemba, Pemba, or Mafia!

Inclusions in the itinerary.

  • All accommodations
  • Crater Fee
  • English speaking guide
  • Full board
  • Game drives
  • Park fees
  • Pickup and transfer to airport
  • Reservation costs
  • Flight ticket Arusha –Zanzibar.

Exclusions.

  • International flights
  • Visas.
  • Travel insurance.