Can You Do a Safari and Zanzibar Trip?
Yes, you can enjoy both a safari and Zanzibar trip in one holiday. This guide shows you how to combine a Tanzania safari with a beach vacation in Zanzibar. Learn about where to go, how long to stay, when to travel, and how much it costs
Why This Trip is Worth It
A Tanzania safari and beach holiday gives you the best of both worlds, wildlife and relaxation. On safari, your days are full of exciting game drives and amazing nature views. After that, Zanzibar offers a slower pace, great food, and a chance to enjoy the ocean. It’s perfect for couples, families, and even solo travelers. You can also enjoy a mix of cultures, from Maasai traditions on the mainland to Swahili heritage in Zanzibar.
How to Travel from Safari to Zanzibar
Most safaris in Tanzania start or end in Arusha, which is close to the main parks. From there, it’s easy to fly to Zanzibar. The flight takes about 1.5 hours and runs daily. Many travel companies include this flight in their packages. You can also book it separately if needed. This short flight makes it simple to go from the bush to the beach in the same day.
Where to Go on Safari Before Zanzibar
Some national parks are ideal to visit before heading to Zanzibar. These include:
- Serengeti National Park : Best for the Great Migration and big cats
- Ngorongoro Crater : A huge crater filled with wildlife
- Tarangire National Park : Known for elephants and baobab trees
- Lake Manyara National Park : Home to tree-climbing lions and flamingos
These parks are all located in northern Tanzania, making it easy to visit them on one safari route.
How Many Days Do You Need?
To fully enjoy both the safari and the beach, most travelers spend around 4 to 6 days on safari and 3 to 5 days in Zanzibar. That means a full trip would be about 8 to 12 days, depending on your travel style and budget. If you’re short on time, you can still enjoy both with a 7-day plan, but a longer trip gives you more time to relax.
Best Time to Visit Tanzania and Zanzibar
The best times for a safari and Zanzibar trip are during the dry seasons:
- June to October : Best for wildlife viewing and sunny beach weather
- January to March : Still good weather, and less crowded
Try to avoid April and May, as this is the rainy season. Roads in the parks can get muddy, and beach activities may be affected by the weather.
How Much Does It Cost?
The cost of a safari and Zanzibar trip depends on the type of experience you want:
- Budget: Around $2,000 per person (shared safari, basic beach hotels)
- Mid-range: $3,000–$4,500 per person (private safari, comfortable lodges)
- Luxury: $5,000+ per person (fly-in safaris, high-end beach resorts)
These prices usually include accommodation, meals, park fees, and flights between the safari and Zanzibar. Some packages also include guides and airport transfers.
What to Pack
Packing for this kind of trip is simple. Here are the essentials:
- Light clothes for warm weather
- Neutral colors for safari (avoid bright colors)
- Sunhat, sunscreen, and sunglasses
- Insect repellent
- Swimwear and beach shoes
- Camera or phone for photos
- Comfortable walking shoes
Don’t forget any medication you need and travel documents like your passport and vaccination card (if required).
A safari and Zanzibar trip is not only possible, but it’s also one of the best vacation ideas in Africa. You’ll get to explore the wild beauty of Tanzania and then relax on some of the best beaches in the world. It’s a trip full of adventure, culture, and calm moments by the ocean. Whether you’re planning a honeymoon, a family trip, or a personal getaway, this type of travel will give you memories that last a lifetime.
