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Gomayu
Gomayu

Tarangire, Lake Manyara, Serengeti National Park, and Zanzibar Tour

9 Days 8 Nights

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Country

Tanzania

Best Season

June to October

Duration

9D/8N

Group Size

10-15 travelers

Experience the beauty and cultural diversity of East Africa with this nine-day luxury Tanzania vacation, which combines thrilling safaris with the peaceful attraction of Zanzibar's beaches. Arusha, the entry point to Tanzania's famous game parks, is where the trip starts. 

From here, you'll set out on thoughtfully planned journeys through a variety of ecosystems, including the sweeping savannas of Serengeti National Park, which is well-known for the Great Migration, the elephant-dotted plains of Tarangire, the bird-rich shores of Lake Manyara, and the dramatic landscapes of Ngorongoro Crater.

Your journey is designed to provide you with both luxury and adventure, enabling you to enjoy luxurious services and get up close and personal with Tanzania's remarkable wildlife. 

A game drive at dawn as the savanna comes alive, a lunch by a watering hole with zebras and wildebeests close by, and evenings spent relaxing in classy lodges that mix in perfectly with their environment are just a few of the life-changing experiences that await you every day.

This tour switches from safari to beach vacation in Zanzibar. Enjoy the fresh seafood, spices, and cultural customs that are exclusive to this idyllic coastal location, as well as the island's serene beaches and the UNESCO-listed Stone Town.

From smooth transportation and knowledgeable local guides to fine dining and excellent lodging, every detail of this trip is thoughtfully planned to provide a fully immersive experience that highlights Tanzania's natural beauty, rich cultural legacy, and hospitable nature.

Fun Facts about the Places 

Tarangire National Park

Land of Giants: Tarangire has one of the highest populations of elephants in Tanzania, often traveling in herds of up to 300.

Baobab Kingdom: The park is famous for its ancient, massive baobab trees, some of which are over a thousand years old.

Home to Rare Antelope: Tarangire is one of the few places where you can spot rare species like the fringe-eared oryx and the long-necked gerenuk.

Tarangire River: This river runs through the park and serves as a vital water source, attracting huge numbers of animals, especially during the dry season.

Birdwatcher's Paradise: With over 550 bird species, Tarangire is a top destination for bird enthusiasts, including sightings of ostriches, kori bustards, and the stunning yellow-collared lovebird.

Lake Manyara National Park

Tree-Climbing Lions: Lake Manyara is famous for its lions, which are known to climb trees, an unusual behavior that adds a special sighting to any safari.

Pink Carpet of Flamingos: Lake Manyara’s alkaline waters attract thousands of flamingos, creating a striking pink spectacle against the landscape.

Underground Water System: The park has a unique underground water system that helps support a lush forest even during dry seasons, making it distinct from other parks in Tanzania.

Diverse Ecosystems: This small park packs diverse habitats into a limited area, from lake and savanna to acacia woodland, allowing for a wide variety of wildlife and plant species.

Inspiration for Hemingway: Lake Manyara’s beauty inspired Ernest Hemingway, who once called it “the loveliest lake in Africa.”

Serengeti National Park

Great Migration Spectacle: Every year, nearly 2 million wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles go on a circular migration across the Serengeti in search of food and water.

Big Cat Haven: The Serengeti is one of the best places to see big cats in action, including lions, leopards, and cheetahs, which thrive in the vast, open plains.

Name Meaning: The word “Serengeti” comes from the Maasai word siringet, which means “endless plains,” a fitting name for the expansive grasslands stretching over 14,750 square kilometers.

Oldest Ecosystem: Serengeti’s ecosystem is estimated to be over a million years old, making it one of the most ancient in the world and a sanctuary for both flora and fauna.

Rocky Kopjes: These rocky outcrops, known as kopjes, are scattered throughout the park and provide shade, shelter, and hunting vantage points for predators like lions and leopards.

Zanzibar

Spice Island: Zanzibar is famous for its spice farms, particularly for cloves, cinnamon, and nutmeg. The island’s spice trade history has earned it the nickname “Spice Island.”

UNESCO World Heritage Site: Stone Town, Zanzibar’s historic center, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its winding alleys, grand Arab architecture, and centuries-old history blending Arab, Persian, Indian, and European influences.

Rare Red Colobus Monkeys: Zanzibar is home to the critically endangered Zanzibar red colobus monkey, which can be seen in Jozani Forest, which is a species found nowhere else in the world.

Pristine Beaches and Coral Reefs: Zanzibar’s beaches are renowned for their white sands and crystal-clear waters, which host vibrant coral reefs perfect for snorkeling and diving.

Legendary Musicians: Zanzibar is the birthplace of legendary Queen frontman Freddie Mercury, born Farrokh Bulsara, adding a musical legacy to the island’s cultural richness.

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Maps

Navigate Your Journey

Itinerary

Your Journey, Step by Step

Day 01
Arrival in Arusha

After arriving at Kilimanjaro International Airport, our team will be there to drive you to your hotel. Once you check in at your hotel, you will have some time to relax and refresh in your room. 

 

Later in the evening, you will explore Arusha town and visit the local markets or the Cultural Heritage Centre. You will return to your hotel after dinner.

 

  • Accommodation: Arusha Planet Lodge
  • Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 02
Tarangire National Park

After breakfast, you will drive to Tarangire National Park. The drive from Arusha to Tarangire National Park is approximately 2 hours. 

 

After you arrive in Tarangire National Park, go on a game drive. Tarangire is known for its large herds of elephants, iconic baobab trees, and diverse wildlife. 

 

In the afternoon, after lunch as well, you will continue exploring the national park with more game drives. Later in the evening, you will have dinner and go to your lodge.

 

  • Accommodation: Tarangire Sopa Lodge
  • Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 03
Lake Manyara National Park

After breakfast today, you will leave for Lake Manyara National Park. Lake Manyara National Park is approximately 1.5 hours from Tarangire. 

 

Upon arriving, you will head to a game drive. Lake Manyara is famous for its tree-climbing lions, flamingos, and rich birdlife. 

 

After lunch, you will again continue exploring the park. Later in the evening, you will return to your lodge after breakfast.

 

  • Accommodation: Escarpment Luxury Lodge
  • Meals Included: Breakfast 

 

Day 04
Ngorongoro Crater

After breakfast, you will leave for Ngorongoro Crater. The drive from Lake Manyara National Park to Ngorongoro Crater is approximately 2 hours.

 

Once you arrive in Ngorongoro Crater, you will descend into the crater for a full day of game drives. The Ngorongoro Crater is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the best places to see the Big Five.

 

For lunch you will have a picnic in the crater, and in the afternoon you will have more wildlife viewing and then you will then ascend back up.

 

  • Accommodation: Octagon Lodge
  • Meals Included: Breakfast 

Day 05
Serengeti National Park (Central)

Early in the morning, after breakfast, you will drive to Serengeti National Park. It will approximately take 3 to 4 hours to reach Serengeti National Park. 

 

As soon as you reach the park, you will explore the Central Serengeti with game drives. The Serengeti is home to the famous Great Migration and is rich in predators like lions, leopards, and cheetahs.

 

In the afternoon, you will have a picnic at your lodge and enjoy more wildlife exploring. Later in the evening, you will return to your lodge after breakfast.

 

  • Accommodation: Green Garden Serengeti Tented Camp 
  • Meals Included: Breakfast 

Day 06
Serengeti to Northern Serengeti

In the morning, after breakfast, you will head to Northern Serengeti from Serengeti. En route to Serengeti, you will go on a game drive with stops to observe the unique landscapes and wildlife of the northern region. 

 

Depending on the time of year, you may witness river crossings during the Great Migration. Once you arrive in Serengeti, you will go on more game drives. In the evening, you will go to your lodge after dinner.

 

  • Accommodation: Serengeti Elegance Hotel 
  • Meals Included: Breakfast 

Day 07
Fly to Zanzibar

From Northern Serengeti, you will fly to Zanzibar after breakfast today. The flight between Serengeti and Zanzibar approximately takes 1 hour and 47 minutes. 

 

As soon as you arrive in Zanzibar, you will check in to your hotel and relax. In the afternoon, you will head towards the beach and spend the entire day there. There are several water activities that you can try.

 

You can try water activities like snorkeling, scuba diving, or taking a sunset cruise. You could also explore Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to learn about Zanzibar’s history and culture.

 

  • Accommodation: HEBE Bungalows Lodge
  • Meals Included: Breakfast 

Day 08
Fly from Zanzibar to Arusha

After breakfast, you will head towards the airport for your flight to Arusha. From Zanzibar, a flight from Arusha is approximately 1 hour, 31 minutes. 

 

Once you arrive in Arusha, you will have the entire day free to yourself. You can go exploring the nearby places or just relax in your hotel.

 

  • Accommodation: Arusha Planet Lodge
  • Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 09
Departure

After an early morning breakfast, you will head to Kilimanjaro International Airport for you flight back home. 

 

  • Meals Included: Breakfast

Inclusions

What’s Covered in Your Adventure

Includes
  • Airport transfers and domestic flights between Serengeti, Zanzibar, and Arusha
  • Accommodations as per itinerary
  • Daily breakfast
  • Guided tours and safari drives with local experts
  • All national park entry fees
Excludes
  • International airfare
  • Meals not specified in the itinerary
  • Travel insurance
  • Personal expenses and optional activities
Good to Know

Your Journey, Step by Step

Accommodations During the Tour

In addition to being comfortable, the accommodations on this tour have been chosen for their natural immersion, environmentally friendly operations, and stunning surroundings. A variety of upscale tent camps, safari lodges, and eco-friendly beachside resorts can be found. 

 

Several Serengeti lodges include roomy tents with wooden decks so you can take in the expansive savanna views from your porch. A pleasant and environmentally responsible stay is guaranteed by features like solar-powered lights, en suite bathrooms, and cozy beds.

 

Some lodges provide spa treatments, infinity pools, and outdoor showers as a little extra luxury, giving guests the chance to relax while taking in Tanzania’s breathtaking scenery. 

 

You will stay in beachfront lodgings in Zanzibar, where you can easily enjoy the turquoise oceans and golden sunsets because each apartment or bungalow is sometimes only a few feet from the shore. Additionally, some villas include private beach services, which create a calm setting for strolls in the evening or leisure.

Dining During the Tour

Your adventure has been thoughtfully planned to highlight both the range of international cuisine and the depth of Tanzanian tastes. 

 

The cooks on the trip create meals that highlight Tanzanian mainstays like grilled meats, coconut-based curries, and spicy stews using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. To fuel your days of exploration, breakfasts are substantial and frequently include tropical fruits, pastries, and local coffee.

 

During a wildlife drive, lunch may be eaten as a picnic with pre-packaged, tasty dishes that include Tanzanian-style sandwiches, seasonal fruits, and veggies. 

 

The lodges’ dinners are a lovely experience, with a variety of foreign and Swahili-inspired foods served in warm, lantern-lit settings. At certain programs, you’ll also get to eat outside, which adds a special touch to every day. 

 

Because of its reputation as the “Spice Island,” Zanzibar offers a gastronomic experience that is enhanced by meals seasoned with cardamom, cloves, and cinnamon. Anticipate native sides like coconut rice together with fresh seafood dishes, such as the well-known octopus curry.

Additional Information for an Unforgettable Trip

Wi-Fi and Connectivity: Many lodges offer Wi-Fi in common areas, but connections can be spotty due to the remote locations. It’s a great opportunity to disconnect and immerse yourself in the experience.

 

Dress Code: While casual attire is suitable for safari drives, respectful clothing is appreciated when visiting villages or cultural sites. In Zanzibar, be mindful of local customs, especially in Stone Town and other local areas.

 

Electricity and Charging: Power outlets can be limited in some camps. Bringing a portable power bank is recommended for keeping your devices charged for photography.

 

Weather: Tanzania generally has a tropical climate, but temperatures vary by region and altitude. It’s a good idea to bring layers, as early mornings and nights can be cool, especially in higher-altitude parks like the Serengeti.

 

Cultural Etiquette: Friendly greetings are appreciated, and a simple “Jambo” (hello) goes a long way. Tanzania is a welcoming place, and learning a few basic Swahili phrases can enhance your interactions with locals.

Safari Etiquette and Wildlife Watching Tips

Keep voices low to avoid disturbing wildlife.

Stay in the vehicle unless permitted by guides.

Avoid flash photography to respect animals.

Maintain a safe distance from animals for your safety and theirs.

Follow the guides’ instructions carefully for a smooth experience.

Don’t feed or approach animals; it disrupts their natural behavior.

Take only pictures; do not pick up plants, rocks, or other natural items.

Be patient and move slowly to observe animals’ natural behaviors.

Dispose of waste responsibly, leaving no trace.

Carry binoculars for better views without intruding.

FAQs

Your Questions, Answered

What is the duration of this tour?

Nine days and eight nights, covering safari destinations and Zanzibar.

What types of accommodations are provided?

Luxury lodges and tent camps close to Tanzania’s wildlife areas, plus a beach hotel in Zanzibar.

What should I pack for the safari?

Comfortable clothing, a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, a quality camera, and personal medications.

Is the safari family-friendly?

Yes, this tour is suitable for families. For child-friendly options, please consult with us.

What is included in the package?

Airport transfers, accommodations, meals as specified, guided game drives, park entrance fees, and a domestic flight to Zanzibar.

Are international flights included?

No, international flights are not included in the package.

Can I add optional activities to the tour?

Yes, optional activities like hot air balloon safaris and snorkeling excursions in Zanzibar can be added at an additional cost.

Are there any health precautions for this trip?

We recommend bringing insect repellent and consulting your doctor about malaria prophylaxis.

Will I have Wi-Fi access during the tour?

Most lodges offer limited Wi-Fi, though connections may vary in remote areas.

Is tipping expected?

While not mandatory, tipping is appreciated by guides, drivers, and lodge staff. Tipping guidelines are available upon request.

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