Wonderful Northern Circuit Tanzania Safari and Zanzibar Combined Tour

Experience the ultimate 11-day Northern Circuit Tanzania Safari combined with a stunning Zanzibar beach vacation. Begin your adventure exploring Tarangire National Park’s iconic elephants, then journey to Serengeti National Park for thrilling wildlife sightings including the Great Migration. Discover the breathtaking Ngorongoro Conservation Area’s caldera, home to diverse wildlife in a unique volcanic setting. Visit Lake Manyara National Park, famous for tree-climbing lions and flamingo-filled lakes. After days of exhilarating safari, unwind on Zanzibar’s pristine white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant culture—perfect for families, honeymooners, or couples seeking both adventure and relaxation.

This all-inclusive tour offers expertly guided game drives, comfortable lodges, beach resorts, meals, and transfers. Guests rave about the seamless blend of wildlife excitement and tropical tranquility, praising exceptional guides and unforgettable experiences. Explore detailed maps, stunning photos, and authentic reviews highlighting the trip’s rich diversity and luxury. Whether a family holiday or romantic escape, this Tanzania and Zanzibar tour promises a lifetime of memories amid Africa’s most iconic landscapes and idyllic shores.

Day 1: Arrival in Tanzania – Gateway to Adventure

Upon your arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), you’ll be warmly greeted by your private safari guide and driver. The crisp, clean air of Tanzania will signal the beginning of your grand adventure. You’ll be comfortably transferred to the opulent Gran Melia Arusha, a haven of luxury nestled in the heart of Arusha with stunning views of Mount Meru. Settle into your elegant room, refresh, and enjoy a delightful dinner at the hotel, as you anticipate the incredible journey ahead. Ovenight at Gran Melia Arusha

Day 2: Arusha to Tarangire National Park – Elephant Kingdom

After a sumptuous breakfast, your safari truly begins as you depart Arusha for Tarangire National Park (approx. 2-3 hour drive). Renowned for its colossal baobab trees and large elephant herds, Tarangire offers a unique landscape. You’ll embark on your first thrilling game drive upon arrival, encountering diverse wildlife against the backdrop of this picturesque park. Keep an eye out for lions, giraffes, zebras, and a myriad of bird species. As the day winds down, you’ll arrive at the charming Kitela Lodge in Karatu, a beautiful property set amidst coffee plantations, offering a tranquil retreat. Dinner and overnight at the Kitela lodge. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3: Karatu to Serengeti National Park – The Endless Plains Await

After an early breakfast, you’ll set off for the iconic Serengeti National Park (approx. 4-6 hour drive, depending on specific entry gate and central Serengeti location). The journey itself is part of the adventure, as the landscape transitions from the highlands of Karatu to the vast, seemingly endless plains of the Serengeti. You’ll enjoy an en-route game drive as you make your way to your luxurious camp. Your destination for the next two nights is the elegant Serengeti Kubu Kubu Luxury Tented Safari Lodge, perfectly positioned in the central Serengeti to maximize your wildlife viewing opportunities. Settle into your opulent tent and enjoy a delightful dinner under the African sky.Accommodation: Serengeti Kubu Kubu Luxury Tented Safari Lodge

Meals: Full Board

Day 4: Serengeti National Park – Wildlife Spectacle

Today is a full day dedicated to exhilarating game drives in the heart of the Serengeti. From the comfort of your custom-built luxury safari vehicle, you’ll traverse the vast plains, searching for the “Big Five” – lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo – as well as countless other fascinating creatures. The central Serengeti is known for its resident wildlife population, ensuring incredible sightings year-round. Your expert guide will skillfully track animals and provide insightful commentary, enriching your understanding of this magnificent ecosystem. Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the wilderness, making for truly unforgettable moments. Return to Kubu Kubu for dinner and another peaceful overnight stay, listening to the sounds of the bush.

Accommodation: Serengeti Kubu Kubu Luxury Tented Safari Lodge . Meals: Full Board

Day 5: Serengeti to Ngorongoro Crater Rim – Majestic Views

After a final breakfast in the Serengeti, you’ll embark on an en-route game drive as you head towards the Ngorongoro Conservation Area (approx. 3-4 hour drive to the crater rim). The drive takes you through changing landscapes, eventually ascending to the rim of the magnificent Ngorongoro Crater. This evening, you’ll enjoy breathtaking panoramic views from your lodge situated directly on the crater rim. Your accommodation, the Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge or a related luxury lodge, offers stunning vistas and the perfect prelude to your crater descent. Dinner and overnight at the lodge. Accommodation: Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge or similar luxury crater rim lodge

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6: Ngorongoro Crater Game Drive & Karatu Retreat

Today is a highlight of your safari! After an early breakfast, you’ll descend 600 meters into the Ngorongoro Crater for a breathtaking 5-6 hour game drive. Often referred to as Africa’s “Garden of Eden,” the crater floor is a natural amphitheater teeming with an incredible density of wildlife. Expect close-up encounters with the “Big Five,” numerous zebras, wildebeest, hippos, and a diverse array of birdlife. The unique ecosystem within the crater ensures a vibrant and active wildlife viewing experience. After your unforgettable crater exploration, you’ll ascend back to the rim and then drive back to Karatu (approx. 1.5-2 hour drive) for a restful overnight stay at Kitela Lodge or a similar luxury property.

Accommodation: Kitela Lodge, Karatu. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 7: Lake Manyara & Flight to Zanzibar – Island Bound!

After breakfast at Kitela Lodge, you’ll enjoy a game drive in the picturesque Lake Manyara National Park (approx. 30-45 min drive from Karatu). Famous for its tree-climbing lions (though sightings are not guaranteed), large flocks of flamingos (seasonal), and diverse birdlife, Manyara offers a different wildlife experience with its groundwater forest and acacia woodlands. After your game drive, you’ll be transferred to Arusha Airport (ARK) (approx. 2.5-3 hour drive from Lake Manyara) for your scheduled flight to Zanzibar (approx. 1.5-hour flight).

Upon arrival at Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ) in Zanzibar, you’ll be met and transferred to the luxurious Melia Zanzibar Safari Lodge (or a similar high-end beach resort), located on the stunning east coast. Settle into your beautiful room or villa and begin your tropical island relaxation. Dinner and overnight at the lodge.

Accommodation: Melia Zanzibar Safari Lodge. Meals: Breakfast, Dinner. Check into your chosen beachfront luxury resort. Highly recommended options for unparalleled luxury and tranquility include The Residence Zanzibar, Baraza Resort and Spa, Tulia Zanzibar Unique Beach Resort, or Zanzibar White Sand Luxury Villas & Spa.

Day 8: Stone Town Immersion & Local Flavors

After a leisurely breakfast at your resort, you’ll embark on a fascinating full-day excursion to Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the historical heart of Zanzibar. Your guided walking tour will lead you through its labyrinthine alleys, past intricately carved wooden doors, and ancient buildings showcasing a unique blend of Arab, Persian, Indian, and European architectural styles. Discover the House of Wonders, the Old Fort, the former Slave Market and Anglican Cathedral, and the bustling Darajani Market. Enjoy lunch at a charming local restaurant in Stone Town, savoring authentic Zanzibari flavors. In the late afternoon, you’ll return to your luxurious Melia Zanzibar Safari Lodge to relax and enjoy dinner.

Accommodation: Melia Zanzibar Safari Lodge. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner. Check into your chosen beachfront luxury resort. Highly recommended options for unparalleled luxury and tranquility include The Residence Zanzibar, Baraza Resort and Spa, Tulia Zanzibar Unique Beach Resort, or Zanzibar White Sand Luxury Villas & Spa.

Day 9: Jozani Forest & East Coast Oasis – Nature and Relaxation

After a delightful breakfast, your day begins with an exploration of Zanzibar’s natural side. You’ll be driven to Jozani Forest, the island’s only national park and home to the rare and endemic Zanzibar Red Colobus monkeys. Enjoy a guided walk through the lush forest, observing these playful primates in their natural habitat. Your guide will also highlight various indigenous plant species and lead you through a fascinating mangrove boardwalk, revealing the importance of this unique coastal ecosystem.

The rest of your day is dedicated to pure relaxation on Zanzibar’s stunning East Coast. Return to your Melia Zanzibar Safari Lodge and enjoy the resort’s world-class amenities. Swim in the sparkling pools, unwind on the pristine white-sand beach, or indulge in a rejuvenating spa treatment. The tranquil ambiance of the East Coast is perfect for soaking up the sun and unwinding. Dinner and overnight at the lodge.

Accommodation: Melia Zanzibar Safari Lodge. Meals: Breakfast, Dinner. Check into your chosen beachfront luxury resort. Highly recommended options for unparalleled luxury and tranquility include The Residence Zanzibar, Baraza Resort and Spa, Tulia Zanzibar Unique Beach Resort, or Zanzibar White Sand Luxury Villas & Spa.

Day 10: Spice Sensations & Prison Island’s Giants

Today offers another blend of sensory and historical experiences. After breakfast, embark on a Spice Tour to a local spice farm. Learn about the cultivation, harvesting, and traditional uses of various spices like cloves, cinnamon, vanilla, nutmeg, and more. Engage your senses as you touch, smell, and taste these aromatic treasures directly from their source, understanding why Zanzibar is known as the “Spice Island.”

In the afternoon, you’ll take a short boat trip from Stone Town (or a nearby accessible point if arranged) to Prison Island (Changuu Island). This intriguing island, with its historical past as a quarantine station, is now famous for its sanctuary of giant Aldabra tortoises, some of which are over a hundred years old. You’ll have the delightful opportunity to interact with and feed these gentle giants. The crystal-clear waters surrounding the island also offer excellent opportunities for swimming or snorkeling. Return to your Melia Zanzibar Safari Lodge for a farewell dinner, reflecting on your incredible journey.

Accommodation: Melia Zanzibar Safari Lodge. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch (often included with tours), Dinner. Check into your chosen beachfront luxury resort. Highly recommended options for unparalleled luxury and tranquility include The Residence Zanzibar, Baraza Resort and Spa, Tulia Zanzibar Unique Beach Resort, or Zanzibar White Sand Luxury Villas & Spa.

Day 11: Farewell in Tanzania – Departure

Enjoy a final, leisurely breakfast at the Melia Zanzibar Safari Lodge, savoring the last moments of your island paradise. Depending on your flight schedule, you’ll have some free time to relax by the pool, enjoy the beach, or do some last-minute souvenir shopping. At the appointed time, your private transfer will pick you up from your resort and take you to Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ) for your international departure, carrying with you cherished memories of an unforgettable 11-day adventure in Tanzania, from its magnificent wildlife to the serene beauty of Zanzibar.

Meals: Breakfast

Please Note:

The specific location of the Great Migration in the Serengeti is seasonal. This itinerary focuses on the central Serengeti, which offers excellent resident game viewing year-round. If you wish to specifically target the migration, the itinerary may need to be adjusted based on your travel dates.

“Related accommodation” for Ngorongoro Serena Lodge implies other luxury lodges on the crater rim or in Karatu with comparable standards (e.g., Ngorongoro Oldeani Mountain Lodge, Ngorongoro Crater Lodge, The Manor at Ngorongoro).

This itinerary is a suggestion and can be customized to your specific interests, preferences, and pace. Flight times between Arusha and Zanzibar are approximately 1.5 hours. Travel times between safari locations are estimates and can vary depending on road conditions, wildlife sightings en route, and entry/exit formalities.