Dar es Salaam and Zanzibar have some great restaurants serving a wide range of local and regional cuisine. Alternatively for a really unique experience why not try deep-sea fishing followed by barbecuing your catch on the beach in Zanzibar
Arrival in Tanzania & Lake Manyara National Park
Day 1 - Arrival in Tanzania: You’ll fly in to Kilimanjaro International Airport near Arusha. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel for the night. You’ll be surrounded by the stunning views of Mount Meru and the vibrant culture of Arusha, the gateway to Tanzania’s northern safari circuit. Relax and prepare for the adventure ahead.
Day 2-3 - Lake Manyara National Park: After breakfast, embark on your journey to Lake Manyara National Park, renowned for its diverse wildlife and scenic beauty. Spend two days exploring the park’s rich ecosystems, home to tree-climbing lions, large flocks of flamingos, and elephants. You’ll enjoy both game drives and walking safaris with experienced guides, as well as a visit to the beautiful Lake Manyara itself.
Ngorongoro Crater
Next, head to Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the best places to spot the Big Five. Spend two days in this caldera, where you’ll experience the incredible biodiversity of the area, from lions and rhinos to hippos and wildebeests. Enjoy a full day exploring the crater floor on a guided game drive and take in the stunning panoramic views from the rim.
Serengeti National Park
Next, continue your safari adventure with a visit to the world-famous Serengeti National Park. Known for the Great Migration (which occurs between December and March and again from May to July), Serengeti is a highlight of any Tanzanian safari. Over the course of three days, you’ll witness dramatic wildlife sightings, including lions, cheetahs, and giraffes. Spend time on game drives, enjoy a sunrise or sunset safari, and if you're lucky, experience the migration or a predator hunt.
Serengeti National Park, Arusha & Zanzibar
Day 9 - Tarangire National Park: Today, head to Tarangire National Park, famous for its massive herds of elephants and distinctive baobab trees. Spend a full day on a game drive in this wildlife-rich park, where you'll spot a wide variety of animals including zebras, buffalo, and lions. It’s a great location to take in Tanzania’s natural beauty and enjoy a more peaceful safari experience compared to the larger parks.
Day 10 - Arusha: After an exciting few days on the safari circuit, take a relaxing drive back to Arusha. Here, you can unwind with a visit to the local markets or enjoy the views of Mount Meru. If you’re interested, you could visit a coffee plantation or cultural village to learn more about Tanzania’s heritage. Enjoy a restful night before your flight to Zanzibar.
Day 11 - Zanzibar, Explore Stone Town: Fly to Zanzibar in the morning. Upon arrival, you’ll be transferred to Stone Town, the historical heart of the island. Wander through its maze of narrow streets, exploring the rich Swahili culture and stunning architecture, including the House of Wonders, the Old Fort, and the spice markets. Enjoy a sunset walk along the coastline and sample the island’s fresh seafood at a local restaurant.
Day 12 - Spice Tour and Prison Island: Take a half-day spice tour, where you’ll learn about Zanzibar’s rich history as a spice island, and visit local farms where spices like cloves, cinnamon, and nutmeg are grown. In the afternoon, take a boat ride to Prison Island, where you can see giant tortoises and enjoy swimming or snorkelling in the crystal-clear waters.
Zanzibar Beaches & Onward flight
Day 13-14 - Zanzibar Beaches: Spend the last two days of your trip enjoying the stunning beaches of Zanzibar. Choose from Nungwi, Kendwa, or Paje on the island’s northern and eastern shores, where you can relax on white-sand beaches, swim in turquoise waters, or indulge in water sports like kite surfing, snorkelling, and diving. You’ll have the perfect chance to unwind and reflect on your incredible Tanzanian adventure.
Day 14 - Return to Airport: After a leisurely breakfast, transfer back to Zanzibar Airport for your flight home (routes to the UK via Nairobi, Dubai, or Addis Ababa). Reflect on a trip full of diverse wildlife, captivating culture, and breathtaking landscapes.
Combinations are key! Tanzania is a country of huge diversity and wherever you go there are amazing experiences to be had. I think the best trips combine diverse areas – consider pairing the interior, with its amazing wildlife (perhaps the Northern Safari Circuit including Ngorongoro Crater and the Serengeti, or the Southern Circuit including Selous and Ruaha) with a visit to the coast or Zanzibar. If time and budget allow, add in one or more of Tanzania’s lesser-known areas like the Usambara Mountains or the National Parks in the west of the country like Gombe Stream or the Mahale Mountains
Luke Skinner
Don’t forget your snorkel! Zanzibar’s coral has some of the highest marine ecosystem diversity in the Indian Ocean and diving or snorkelling here is an amazing experience
Suzy
January
January in Tanzania and Zanzibar is a fantastic time to visit, offering warm and sunny weather throughout much of the region. This month marks the beginning of the short dry season, making it ideal for outdoor activities and wildlife viewing.
Weather and Popularity
Expect warm and humid conditions with daytime temperatures ranging from 25°C to 32°C. Zanzibar enjoys plenty of sunshine, making it perfect for beach activities, although occasional brief afternoon thunderstorms can occur. This month is popular among tourists, making it one of the busier times of the year.
Events and Festivals:
- Mango Season: Enjoy the local mangoes in full swing.
- Clove Harvest in Pemba: Witness the end of the clove harvest, a significant cultural event.
Activities and Tours:
- Southern Serengeti: This is the calving season for wildebeest, offering spectacular wildlife viewing opportunities as predators are also highly active.
- Zanzibar: Perfect for sunbathing and water activities. The sea temperature is around 30°C, ideal for swimming and snorkeling. Kite surfing is popular on the east coast due to the north-eastern ‘kaskazi’ wind.
Additional Insights:
- Lively Atmosphere: January is bustling with tourists, making it a lively time to visit. Bars, restaurants, and attractions are buzzing with activity.
- Higher Costs: Due to high demand, expect higher prices for flights and accommodation. Booking in advance is recommended.
- Temperature: Average temperatures hover around 27°C, with warmer conditions in the south and slightly cooler temperatures in the north, especially in mountainous areas.
February
February continues the favorable weather conditions of January, making it another excellent month to visit Tanzania and Zanzibar. The short dry season persists, providing ideal conditions for wildlife viewing and beach activities.
Weather and Popularity
Daytime temperatures remain warm, averaging between 25°C and 32°C, with minimal rainfall. This month is slightly less busy than January, offering a more relaxed atmosphere.
Events and Festivals:
- Whale Shark Season: Swim with whale sharks off Mafia Island, thanks to clear visibility.
Activities and Tours:
- Southern Serengeti: The wildebeest calving season continues, providing excellent opportunities for predator sightings.
- Ngorongoro Crater: Fewer tourists make it a great time for wildlife viewing.
Additional Insights:
- Comfortable Travel: With fewer tourists compared to January, February offers a more relaxed travel experience.
- Wildlife Viewing: The continued calving season in the Serengeti means predators are highly active, making for thrilling safari experiences.
- Beach Activities: Zanzibar’s beaches are perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and snorkeling, with warm sea temperatures and clear waters.
March
March marks the transition from the short dry season to the long rains, especially towards the end of the month. While the weather remains warm, increased rainfall can be expected, particularly in the afternoons.
Weather and Popularity
Temperatures remain warm, but rainfall increases, particularly in the afternoons. Tourist numbers start to decrease, making it a quieter time to visit.
Events and Festivals:
- Bird Watching: Excellent time for bird watching in Selous Game Reserve due to lush landscapes.
Activities and Tours:
- Southern Serengeti: Last chance to see the wildebeest calving before the herds start moving north.
- Zanzibar: Warm weather persists, though rain becomes more frequent.
Additional Insights:
- Quieter Atmosphere: With fewer tourists, March offers a more peaceful travel experience.
- Lush Landscapes: The onset of the rains brings lush, green landscapes, enhancing the beauty of the region.
- Wildlife Viewing: Although the rains begin, wildlife viewing remains excellent, particularly for bird enthusiasts.
April
April is the peak of the long rains, making some areas challenging to access. However, temperatures remain warm, and the landscape is lush and green. This is the low season for tourism, so expect fewer crowds and lower prices.
Weather and Popularity
April is characterized by heavy rains, making some areas difficult to access. However, the temperatures remain warm, and the landscape is lush and green. This is the low season for tourism, so expect fewer crowds and lower prices.
Events and Festivals:
- Easter Celebrations: Experience local Easter traditions and festivities.
Activities and Tours:
- Selous Game Reserve: Fewer tourists and excellent bird watching opportunities.
- Zanzibar: Despite the rain, beach activities are still possible during dry spells.
Additional Insights:
- Lower Costs: With fewer tourists, travel costs are lower, making it a budget-friendly time to visit.
- Lush Scenery: The rains bring vibrant greenery, creating stunning landscapes.
- Peaceful Experience: Enjoy a more tranquil experience with fewer tourists around.
May
Weather and Popularity
May sees the end of the long rains, with rainfall tapering off towards the end of the month. Temperatures cool slightly, making it more comfortable for travel. Tourist numbers begin to increase as the weather improves.
Events and Festivals:
- International Workers' Day: Celebrated on May 1st with various local events.
Activities and Tours:
- Serengeti: Migration herds start moving towards the central and western regions.
- Mount Kilimanjaro: Clearer skies and cooler temperatures make it a good time for climbing.
Additional Insights:
- Improving Weather: As the rains end, the weather becomes more favorable for outdoor activities.
- Wildlife Viewing: The migration begins, offering excellent opportunities for wildlife enthusiasts.
- Cultural Events: Participate in local celebrations and events, adding a cultural dimension to your trip.
June
Weather and Popularity
June marks the beginning of the long dry season. Expect cooler temperatures and minimal rainfall, creating ideal travel conditions. This is a popular time for safaris, so expect more tourists.
Events and Festivals:
- Zanzibar International Film Festival: A major cultural event showcasing films from Africa and beyond.
Activities and Tours:
- Western Serengeti: Witness the Great Migration and Grumeti River crossings.
- Ngorongoro Crater: Excellent wildlife viewing and comfortable weather.
Additional Insights:
- Ideal Safari Conditions: The dry season offers the best conditions for safaris, with minimal rainfall and cooler temperatures.
- Cultural Events: The Zanzibar International Film Festival adds a cultural highlight to your trip.
- Wildlife Viewing: The Great Migration and other wildlife spectacles make June an exciting time to visit.
July
Weather and Popularity
July is part of the long dry season, characterized by cool and dry conditions, especially in the mornings and evenings. This is peak safari season, so expect high tourist numbers and book accommodations well in advance.
Events and Festivals:
- Mwaka Kogwa Festival: A traditional Shirazi New Year celebration in Zanzibar, featuring rituals and festivities.
Activities and Tours:
- Northern Serengeti: The wildebeest migration towards the Mara River is a spectacular sight.
- Zanzibar: Perfect beach weather, ideal for diving and snorkeling.
Additional Insights:
- Peak Season: July is a busy month, so plan and book your trip well in advance.
- Wildlife Spectacles: The Mara River crossings during the Great Migration are a highlight.
- Beach Activities: Zanzibar’s beaches offer perfect conditions for water activities and relaxation.
August
August is one of the best months to visit Tanzania and Zanzibar, offering cool, dry, and sunny weather. This period is ideal for safaris and beach holidays, with minimal rainfall and comfortable temperatures.
Weather and Popularity:
August is part of the long dry season, characterized by clear skies and pleasant temperatures ranging from 20°C to 28°C. This is a peak tourist season, so expect higher prices and more visitors.
Events and Festivals:
- Mwaka Kogwa Festival: A traditional Shirazi New Year celebration in Zanzibar, featuring rituals, music, and dance.
Activities and Tours:
- Northern Serengeti: Witness the dramatic Mara River crossings during the Great Migration.
- Zanzibar: Enjoy pristine beaches, diving, and snorkeling in warm, clear waters.
Additional Insights:
- Peak Safari Season: August is one of the best times for wildlife viewing, with animals congregating around water sources.
- Cultural Experiences: The Mwaka Kogwa Festival offers a unique insight into local traditions and culture.
- Beach Activities: Zanzibar’s beaches are perfect for relaxation and water sports, with ideal weather conditions.
September
September continues the excellent weather conditions of August, making it another prime month for visiting Tanzania and Zanzibar. The dry season ensures great visibility for wildlife viewing and outdoor activities.
Weather and Popularity
Expect warm and dry weather with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 28°C. This month is still part of the peak tourist season, so advance bookings are recommended.
Events and Festivals:
- Sauti za Busara: A vibrant music festival in Zanzibar celebrating African music and culture.
Activities and Tours:
- Serengeti: The Great Migration continues, with herds moving towards the northern regions.
- Ngorongoro Crater: Excellent wildlife viewing opportunities with fewer tourists compared to the Serengeti.
Additional Insights:
- Music and Culture: The Sauti za Busara festival is a highlight, offering a rich cultural experience.
- Wildlife Viewing: September is ideal for safaris, with animals easily spotted around waterholes.
- Beach Holidays: Zanzibar’s beaches remain perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports.
October
October marks the end of the long dry season, with temperatures starting to rise and occasional short rains beginning towards the end of the month. This transitional period offers a mix of dry and wet conditions.
Weather and Popularity
Temperatures range from 22°C to 30°C, with the possibility of short rains later in the month. Tourist numbers start to decrease, making it a quieter time to visit.
Events and Festivals:
- Diwali: Celebrated by the Indian community in Zanzibar, featuring colorful festivities and fireworks.
Activities and Tours:
- Tarangire National Park: Known for large elephant herds and baobab trees, offering excellent wildlife viewing.
- Zanzibar: Enjoy the beaches and explore the island’s rich cultural heritage.
Additional Insights:
- Transitional Weather: October offers a mix of dry and wet conditions, providing a unique travel experience.
- Cultural Celebrations: Diwali adds a festive atmosphere to Zanzibar, with vibrant celebrations.
- Wildlife Viewing: Tarangire National Park is a great alternative to the more crowded Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater.
November
November is characterized by the short rains, known locally as the ‘Vuli’. While the rains can be frequent, they are usually short and do not significantly disrupt travel plans.
Weather and Popularity
Expect warm temperatures ranging from 23°C to 31°C, with increased humidity and frequent short rains. This is a low season for tourism, resulting in fewer crowds and lower prices.
Events and Festivals:
- Eid al-Fitr: Celebrated by the Muslim community, marking the end of Ramadan with feasts and festivities.
Activities and Tours:
- Selous Game Reserve: Excellent for bird watching and fewer tourists.
- Zanzibar: Despite the rains, beach activities are still possible during dry spells.
Additional Insights:
- Lower Costs: November is a budget-friendly time to visit, with lower prices for accommodation and tours.
- Lush Landscapes: The short rains bring vibrant greenery, enhancing the natural beauty of the region.
- Cultural Experiences: Eid al-Fitr celebrations offer a glimpse into the local culture and traditions.
December
December marks the beginning of the short dry season, offering warm and sunny weather. This festive month is ideal for both safaris and beach holidays, with plenty of cultural events and activities.
Weather and Popularity
Expect warm and sunny conditions with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 32°C. This is a popular time for tourists, so advance bookings are recommended.
Events and Festivals:
- Christmas and New Year: Celebrated with various events, parties, and festivities across Tanzania and Zanzibar.
Activities and Tours:
- Serengeti: Excellent wildlife viewing as the short dry season begins.
- Zanzibar: Perfect for beach activities, diving, and snorkeling.
Additional Insights:
- Festive Atmosphere: December is a lively month with numerous celebrations and events.
- Ideal Weather: The short dry season offers perfect conditions for outdoor activities and wildlife viewing.
- Beach Holidays: Zanzibar’s beaches are at their best, providing ideal conditions for relaxation and water sports.
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