9 Day Tanzania Northern Circuit Safari and Zanzibar Beach Holiday 2025

9 Day Tanzania Northern Circuit Safari and Zanzibar Beach

Tour Highlights

• Guided safari in Tanzania’s top parks: Tarangire, Serengeti, and Ngorongoro Crater
• See the Big Five and experience the Great Wildebeest Migration (seasonal)
• Explore diverse landscapes from baobab-filled savannahs to volcanic calderas
• Stay in hand-picked luxury safari lodges and beach resorts
• Unwind on Zanzibar’s white-sand beaches with optional spice tours & snorkeling
• Domestic flight from Serengeti or Arusha to Zanzibar included

Destinations

• Arusha (arrival & briefing)
• Tarangire National Park
• Serengeti National Park (Central & optionally Northern/Southern)
• Ngorongoro Conservation Area & Crater
• Zanzibar Island (Stone Town & Beach)

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Arusha – Welcome to Tanzania

Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), where your safari guide will greet you and transfer you to your lodge in Arusha. Enjoy a relaxed evening with a detailed safari briefing. Depending on your arrival time, you may explore local markets or visit the Cultural Heritage Centre.

Day 2: Arusha – Tarangire National Park

After breakfast, drive to Tarangire National Park (approx. 2–3 hours), famous for its ancient baobab trees and large elephant herds. Game drives will reveal lion prides, leopards, giraffes, zebras, and over 500 bird species. Enjoy a picnic lunch in the wild and more game viewing en route to your lodge/camp inside or near the park.

Day 3: Tarangire – Serengeti National Park (via Ngorongoro Highlands)

Today’s scenic drive takes you through the Great Rift Valley and Ngorongoro highlands toward Serengeti National Park. Stop at a Maasai village (optional) or enjoy views at the crater rim. Upon entering the Serengeti, begin game drives en route to your tented camp. Watch for cheetahs, lions, and vast herds of wildebeest and zebras. Overnight in central Serengeti.

Day 4: Full-Day Safari in Serengeti

Spend the entire day exploring the central Serengeti plains, known as the “Seronera” region. This area is rich in year-round wildlife, including big cats. Depending on the season, you may witness part of the Great Migration. Enjoy a packed lunch under an acacia tree or return to camp for hot lunch and an afternoon game drive.

Day 5: Serengeti – Ngorongoro Conservation Area

Early morning game drive to catch predators in action before breakfast. Then journey toward Ngorongoro, with optional stops at Olduvai Gorge Museum. Arrive at the crater rim in the late afternoon for sundowner views. Overnight at a lodge with stunning views or in a tented camp within the conservation area.

Day 6: Ngorongoro Crater – Flight to Zanzibar

Descend 600 meters into the Ngorongoro Crater for a full morning game drive. This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers unparalleled wildlife viewing – expect to see rhinos, elephants, lions, hyenas, and flamingos in Lake Magadi. After lunch, transfer to Arusha or Seronera Airstrip for your scheduled flight to Zanzibar. Upon arrival, transfer to your beach resort.

Day 7: Relaxation in Zanzibar – Beach Leisure

Spend your day at leisure on the Indian Ocean coast. Enjoy optional activities like snorkeling, scuba diving, sunset dhow cruises, or pampering spa treatments. The turquoise waters and white sands of the east or north coast provide the perfect escape.

Day 8: Stone Town & Spice Tour (Optional)

Choose to stay at the beach or explore Stone Town – a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Wander its maze-like streets, visit historical sites, and enjoy a spice farm tour to learn about Zanzibar’s rich agricultural history. Return to your beach resort by evening.

Day 9: Departure from Zanzibar

Depending on your flight time, enjoy a final swim or relax at your resort. You’ll be transferred to Zanzibar International Airport for your departure. This marks the end of your incredible Northern Circuit safari and Zanzibar beach adventure.

Why Choose This Tour

• Combines classic Big Five safari with world-class beach relaxation
• Expert local guides with deep knowledge of wildlife and culture
• Comfortable 4x4 safari vehicles with guaranteed window seats
• Customizable for couples, families, or solo travelers
• Includes domestic flight to minimize travel time
• Option to upgrade to luxury lodges or beachfront villas

Inclusions

• All airport transfers and ground transport in a 4x4 safari vehicle
• Accommodation in lodges/tented camps and Zanzibar beach resort
• Professional English-speaking safari guide
• All park entry fees and conservation fees
• All meals on safari; half-board or full-board in Zanzibar
• Domestic flight: Arusha/Serengeti to Zanzibar
• Bottled drinking water during safari

Exclusions

• International flights
• Travel insurance
• Visa fees for Tanzania
• Tips and personal expenses
• Optional activities in Zanzibar (e.g., diving, Stone Town tour)
• Alcoholic and soft drinks unless specified

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the best time to go on this tour?

This tour operates year-round. June to October is the dry season, ideal for safaris. December to March is great for wildlife calving in the Serengeti and beach weather in Zanzibar.

Is this tour suitable for children?

Yes, it can be tailored for families with kids. Some lodges offer family rooms and child-friendly menus. Speak with your tour consultant for child age restrictions in camps.

Do I need a visa for Tanzania and Zanzibar?

Yes. Tanzania (including Zanzibar) requires a tourist visa for most nationalities. You can obtain it on arrival or online via the Tanzania Immigration website.

What kind of accommodations are used?

We use a mix of mid-range to luxury lodges, tented camps on safari, and beach resorts in Zanzibar. All accommodations are clean, safe, and offer en-suite facilities.

Can I extend my stay in Zanzibar?

Yes, extra nights can be added. Let us know during booking if you'd like a longer beach holiday or wish to explore nearby islands like Pemba.