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Find The Best Tanzania Safari Itinerary For You

Explore the ultimate Tanzania safari itinerary for an unforgettable adventure! Discover the best wildlife parks, including Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater, while experiencing the Great Migration and spotting the Big Five. Our customizable itineraries cater to all preferences, offering cultural experiences, luxury lodges, and budget-friendly options. Plan your dream safari today and immerse yourself in Tanzania's breathtaking landscapes and rich wildlife!

Tanzania Safari Itinerary 

Planning a safari can be overwhelming. There are so many different options in Tanzania, and it’s hard to know where to start, and quite frankly, it can be completely overwhelming most of the time. Should I spend more time in the Serengeti? What about Selous, is there time to fit in the Ngorongoro Crater? What about a quick hike to the top of Kilimanjaro. The more questions one asks, the more confused one will get, trust us, we have been answering these types of questions for over two decades. Ideally, one needs to take a step back and decide on (for example) three destinations/experiences that are non-negotiable. From that, we both have something to work on, and together we can start working on that perfect Tanzanian safari itinerary designed especially for you. So let us get into answering that question; “what is the best Tanzania safari itinerary?”

Tanzania Safari Itinerary Suggestion

  • Group Tanzania safaris – Our group safaris take you to the best areas within the Serengeti to witness the wildebeest migration and the opportunity to experience some of Tanzania’s other popular wildlife parks like Tarangire, Lake Manyara and Ngorongoro Crater.
  • Private Tanzania safaris – Every safari is uniquely designed with your interests, preferred standard of accommodation and chosen travel date, in mind.
  • Set date departure Tanzania safaris – We run these safaris throughout the year (with two departures every month) which allows you to buy a seat in a vehicle and to save money as you share the vehicle and guide fees with other like-minded people.
  • Zanzibar – The perfect ending to any safari!
  • Combination tours – Trek gorillas in Uganda before enjoying a wildebeest migration safari. You can even combine it with a Kilimanjaro climb. Make the most of Tanzania while you are there!

Whether it’s visiting iconic national parks by 4×4 or exploring some of the most famous wildlife areas in a light aircraft, we’re sure to have the perfect Tanzanian safari just for you. Enjoy a relaxed experience with world-class local guides, quality accommodation (choose between lodges and tented camps) and high-quality vehicles.

tanzania safari itinerary

1. Tanzania Northern Circut Safari

Recommended Northern Tanzania safari itinerary duration: 7-14 days

The Tanzania Northern Circuit Safari is one of Africa’s most popular Tanzania safari itinerary. The route takes you through some of the most stunning landscapes and wildlife areas in the country. You’ll get to see the famous Ngorongoro Crater, the Serengeti National Park, and the Tarangire National Park. These are all world-renowned for their abundant wildlife, including lions, elephants, leopards, and cheetahs, to mention only a few. The scenery is simply breathtaking, and you’re sure to have an amazing safari experience! Perfect for first-time travellers through to seasoned travellers alike.

Highlights;

– Serengeti National Park
– The annual wildebeest and zebra migration
– Tarangire National Park
– Ngorongoro Crater and conservation area

If you’re looking for a fantastic Tanzania safari experience, the Northern Circuit is the route for you! You’ll get to see some of the most famous wildlife areas and landscapes in Africa, all while enjoying world-class accommodations and service. So what are you waiting for? Get planning your dream African safari today!

2. Tanzania Southern Circuit Safari

Recommended safari duration: 5-10 days

The Tanzania Southern Circuit Safari is the second most popular Tanzania safari itinerary in the country. It takes travellers through some of the most beautiful, diverse, remote and wild landscapes in the southern regions of Tanzania, including the Mikumi National Park, Ruaha National Park, and the Selous Game Reserve (Nyerere National Park). The route is especially popular for its opportunities to see an abundance of wildlife, including lions, elephants, leopards, and hippos. This route is also very popular with those who want and need to escape humanity and the crowds of the northern circuit.

Highlights;

– Mikumi National Park
– Ruaha National Park
– Selous Game Reserve (Nyerere National Park)

So, if you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path safari experience and want to see some of the most beautiful landscapes in Tanzania, the Southern Circuit Safari is a great option. The great aspect of the southern circuit is that it can be completely independent of the northern circuit while still offering up a wildlife and safari experience second to none.

3. Tanzania Western Circuit Safari

Recommended safari duration: 3-5 days

Are you looking for an amazing safari experience? The Western Circuit Safari embraces the parks along Lake Tanganyika, the western border of Tanzania with the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Gombe Stream National Park is a remote park that is well worth the effort in visiting. Gombe Stream was made famous by Jane Goodall’s research on its chimpanzee population and subsequent habituation. Gombe Stream is not for everyone due to its remote location! If you are looking for another authentic experience with chimpanzees, then look at heading down south into Mahale Mountains National Park.

Highlights;

– Lake Tanganyika
– Gombe Stream National Park
– Mahale Mountains National Park
– Chimpanzee trekking
– Jane Goodall research centre

If you’re looking for an amazing safari experience, the Western Circuit Safari is a great option. The circuit embraces Gombe Stream National Park, Mahale Mountains National Park, and other parks along Lake Tanganyika’s eastern border. This vast space in a remote natural location makes the circuit worth a visit – especially if you’re interested in chimpanzee trekking or Jane Goodall research centre!

Combine with either the northern or southern circuits for a safari with a difference.

All safaris to this region of Tanzania are 100% tailor-made as accommodation options are far and few between. There are no luxury lodges to be found; most accommodation is of the rustic bush camp variety.

4. Tanzania Coast and Zanzibar Island Safaris

Recommended safari duration: 5-10 days

The Tanzania Coast and Island Safaris are an amazing way to enjoy the beauty and diversity of Tanzania’s famed coastline and warm Indian Ocean waters. This aspect of any Tanzania safari is more of an add-on typical beach holiday component as opposed to an actual safari offering. Days are spent relaxing on the beach, taking short half-day tours to scenic or cultural highlights, and simply relaxing and unwinding.

Highlights;

– Pemba Island
– Zanzibar Island
– Dar es Salaam
– Mafia Island
– Saadani National Park

So, if you’re looking to mix things up a bit on your Tanzania safari vacation- and really, who wouldn’t want to enjoy some amazing beaches and island scenery on the side? Then the Coast and Island Safaris are perfect for you. Offering everything from gorgeous white sand beaches to bustling cultural towns, there’s something for everyone here. Just be sure to leave plenty of time for relaxing; after all, that’s what holidays are for!

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Regardless of what type of safari you’re looking for, Tanzania has something to offer. Whether it is the Northern Circuit route along with the Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro Crater or a Southern Circuit route that takes in some off-the-beaten-path parks like Selous Game Reserve and Ruaha National Park; there are plenty of options to choose from. If you want an awesome mix up on your trip, we recommend adding either the Western Circut Safari (for the best in Chimpanzee sightings) and/or the Tanzanian coastline with her awe-inspiring Indian Ocean Islands. Remember, Tanzania has it all and more.

How much does a Tanzania safari cost?

When planning a Tanzanian safari itinerary, it’s important to consider the various factors that contribute to the total cost. These include the cost of renting a safari vehicle and hiring a private guide, as well as the entrance fees for national parks. While the first two factors are generally fixed prices, you may be able to save money on entrance fees by sharing the safari vehicle with other travelers.

Keep in mind that these fees can be quite expensive, with Ngorongoro Crater charging $300 per day for a safari jeep, plus an additional $78.50 per person. Accommodation costs can also vary greatly depending on the level of luxury and exclusivity you choose. Overall, while Tanzania is known as one of the world’s best safari countries, it can also be an expensive destination, but careful planning and research can help you budget accordingly. 

What Is Included in the Cost of a Tanzania Safari?

The cost of a Tanzania Safari typically covers accommodations, meals, transportation within the parks, park entry fees, and a range of activities and excursions tailored to enhance the safari experience. Accommodations on a Tanzania Safari can vary from luxury lodges to tented camps, offering a diverse range of experiences for travelers. Meals are often included in the package and are usually a mix of local specialties and international cuisine, ensuring a delightful culinary journey.

Tanzania Safari Itinerary Design & Recommendations

All our itineraries are built upon a Fly In & Drive Back basis. This is the best way to conduct a safari in Tanzania as it maximizes your precious time and eliminates all redundancy. Each day offers something new and exciting, as you never retrace your tracks. It is also the most enjoyable and optimal way to explore Northern Tanzania. It is certainly an amazing way to kick off your adventure by first flying over this vast wilderness and then landing onto a small grassy airstrip in the world famous Serengeti!

You are at once introduced to your private driver guide and he will load your luggage into your private vehicle. Without further delay you are thrust into the heart of the wilderness on your first action packed game drive. It is likely that you will encounter many different animals, including some of the big cats, before lunch. Flying into the Serengeti forms a wonderful introduction to the spectacular parks of Tanzania, and is an extremely comfortable way to jump start your adventures. Additionally, transit time is greatly reduced giving you more quality time ‘in the bush’ for wildlife viewing, relaxing and other enjoyable activities that you wish to incorporate into your itinerary.

Our Fly In & Drive Back itineraries utilize different Serengeti airstrips to take advantage of seasonal wildlife concentrations:
  • December – April: Seronera Airstrip in the Central Serengeti
  • May – June: Grumeti Airstrip in the Western Serengeti
  • July – November: Lobo Airstrip in the Northern Serengeti

Best 7 Days Tanzania Safari itinerary suggestion

Tanzania Safari options offer the best of African wildlife magic! The vast Serengeti Plains, the world heritage site of the Ngorongoro Crater, the highest mountain in Africa Mount Kilimanjaro, unique parks like Tarangire and Lake Manyara and the spice island of Zanzibar! Here you can indulge in a superb holiday with everything at your finger tips. Relax and enjoy a country that has been doing it right for decades with a Tanzania Safari option!

7-Day Classic Wildebeest Migration Safari in Tanzania

Experience the timeless allure of the wild savanna with our Classic Safari Adventure. This Best 7 days african safari tours for couples unveils the most famous national parks in Tanzania, guided by experts who would make this journey an indelible memory.

Day 1: Arrive in Arusha and settle into your accommodation.
Days 2–3: Explore the captivating Tarangire National Park.
Days 4–5: Witness the Great Migration in the Serengeti.
Day 6: Descend into the Ngorongoro Crater for unparalleled wildlife encounters.
Day 7: Conclude your adventure at Lake Manyara before returning to Arusha.

This route takes you to Tarangire National Park, famed for its majestic baobab trees and abundant elephant population. In the Serengeti, witness the Great Migration as millions of wildebeest and zebra embark on their annual journey. The Ngorongoro Crater offers a unique opportunity to observe the big five in a natural enclosure, and Lake Manyara is home to tree-climbing lions and diverse birdlife.

Driven in your private 4×4 by your professional safari guide, this private 7-day Tanzania safari offers you the flexibility to travel at your own pace, exactly the way you like it.

7-Day Serengeti and Zanzibar Getaway

Embark on a mesmerizing Best 7 days african safari tours for couples journey through Tanzania, combining the awe-inspiring Serengeti with the tropical paradise of Zanzibar. This itinerary is perfect for wildlife enthusiasts and beach lovers, offering the best of both worlds.

Day 1: Arrive in Arusha and transfer to your accommodation.
Days 2–4: Explore the iconic Serengeti National Park.
Days 5–6: Fly to Zanzibar and bask in the island’s beauty.
Day 7: Conclude your adventure with relaxation on Zanzibar’s beaches before departing.

During the initial phase of this remarkable journey, you would embark on a 3-day exploration of the world-renowned Serengeti National Park, where iconic African wildlife roams freely. Following your Serengeti adventure, a short flight would whisk you away to the tropical paradise of Zanzibar, where you could unwind for 2 days on the island’s pristine beaches.

The Southern Circuit Safari Adventure

Most visitors travel to what is known as the Northern Circuit, as in itinerary #1 above. If you’re the kind of traveler who craves uncharted wildlife experiences, then the Southern Circuit Adventure in Tanzania is tailor-made for you. Set forth on a journey that delves into the lesser-explored realms of this remarkable country.

Day 1: Collection from Dar es Salaam and transfer to Mikumi National Park for a safari.
Day 2: Explore Mikumi National Park for the whole day.
Day 3: Transfer to Ruaha National Park, via Iringa town.
Days 4–6: Have a 3-day safari in Ruaha National Park. Optional activities include walking safaris and night game drives.
Day 7: Take the long drive back to Dar es Salaam or fly back to Dar es Salaam (at an extra flight cost).

This 7-day southern Tanzania safari package would take you to Mikumi National Park and the largest park in Tanzania, Ruaha National Park. Your adventure begins in Mikumi National Park, where the sprawling plains come alive with a diverse array of wildlife, from majestic elephants and formidable buffaloes to iconic lions, zebras, and graceful giraffes. Bird enthusiasts would also find delight in Mikumi’s avian treasures, with over 400 bird species waiting to be discovered.

The journey then leads you to Ruaha National Park, renowned for its massive elephant herds, ancient baobab trees, and regal big cats. For those seeking an even deeper connection with the wilderness, optional activities like walking safaris and night game drives are available, although it’s advisable to plan and book well in advance to ensure permit processing.

7-Day Climbing Kilimanjaro Adventure

Have you dreamed of conquering the mighty Mount Kilimanjaro? This unforgettable 7-day Kilimanjaro hike would make your dream come true.

Day 1: Arrive in Tanzania, transfer to Kilimanjaro, and hike to Machame Camp.
Day 2: Machame Camp to Shira 2 Camp
Day 3: Shira 2 Camp to Barranco Camp
Day 4: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp
Day 5: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp
Day 6: Barafu Camp to the summit and descend to Mweka Camp
Day 7: Mweka Camp to Arusha

This 7-day itinerary to climb Mount Kilimanjaro goes along the Machame route, also known as the “Whiskey” route. It is one of the best ways to climb Mount Kilimanjaro as it is optimal for acclimatization and offers unparalleled vistas and the beauty of diverse ecosystems. You will have two shorter days of trekking prior to your summit ascent in order to optimize your Mount Kilimanjaro climb.

Throughout the trek, you would go through stunning terrain and climb in five different climatic zones, from the lush rainforests at lower altitudes to the breathtaking, harsh, and starkly beautiful arctic zone near the summit. You would have a chance to enjoy exceptional camping experiences like no other. Spacious tents, deluxe comfort, amazing meals, and more!

10 Days Tanzania Safari Itinerary Suggestion 

10-day Tanzanian itineraries, each tailored to different interests and preferences, ensuring that you have the best chance of finding a starting point for of your dream trip.

The Classic 10-Day Tanzania Family Safari with Serengeti

If you travel with your family and harbor a longing to encounter the Big Five, look no further—this meticulously crafted itinerary is designed just for you. It unfolds as the ultimate way for families to witness these majestic creatures in their natural habitats. Spanning 9 or 10 days, this journey takes you through the must-see safari destinations in the north, including the enchanting Tarangire National Park, the awe-inspiring Ngorongoro Conservation Area, and the iconic Serengeti National Park.

Day

Highlights

Day 1

Arrive in Arusha

Arush Arrival

Day 2-3

Tarangire National Park

Bush walking and night safari

Day 4-5

Ngorongoro Conservation Area

Ngorongoro Crater Rim Walk

Day 6-9

Serengeti National Park

Enjoy unlimited Safaris in Serengeti

Day 10

Depart

Arusha depart

Apart from the exciting game drives, our plan includes lots of fun things to do. We’ve carefully chosen a mix of activities to make sure your trip is extra special.

  • Bush Dinner: Revel in the magic of a bush dinner as the sun sets and nature’s symphony serenades you beneath the African sky.
  • Thrilling Night Safari: Embrace the allure of the nocturnal world on a thrilling night safari, where wildlife encounters await under the starlit expanse.
  • Ngorongoro Crater Walk: Explore the Ngorongoro crater on foot, discovering a wealth of wildlife amidst breathtaking panoramic vistas.
  • Maasai Cultural Immersion: Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of the Maasai people, gaining insights into their traditions and way of life.
  • Fly-in Safari over the Serengeti: Soar above the Serengeti on a fly-in safari, where stunning vistas and a profound connection with nature await.

10-Day Tanzania Wildlife and Beach Combo

Embark on an unforgettable journey through Tanzania, where the untamed wilderness of its national parks and the pristine shores of Zanzibar come together to create the perfect 10-day adventure. Ideal for wildlife enthusiasts and beach lovers alike, this itinerary offers the best of both worlds, providing a comprehensive experience that allows you to witness the Big Five in their natural habitats and relax on some of Africa’s most stunning beaches.

Day

Highlights

Overnight

Day 1

Arrive in Arusha

Arusha

Day 2

Transfer to Karatu, Lake Manyara game drives

Karatu

Day 3

Transfer to Serengeti National Park

Serengeti National Park

Day 4

Serengeti game drive

Serengeti National Park

Day 5

Serengeti to Ngorongoro

Ngorongoro

Day 6

Ngorongoro Crater and on to Tarangire

Tarangire National Park

Day 7

Tarangire game drive

Tarangire National Park

Days 8–9

Transfer to Zanzibar, optional activities

Zanzibar beaches

Day 10

Depart

 

From the vibrant city of Arusha to the captivating Serengeti National Park, the natural wonder of Ngorongoro Crater, the elephant-rich Tarangire National Park, and the idyllic beaches of Zanzibar, this journey covers the most renowned destinations in Tanzania. For families, this adventure offers the chance to introduce your children to the wonders of the natural world while enjoying quality time together. Couples, on the other hand, could embrace the romance of starlit dinners and stunning sunsets on Zanzibar’s beaches. Both could partake in optional activities, from hot-air balloon safaris to spice tours in Zanzibar.

 10-Day Tanzania Northern Circuit Safari

If you’re looking for an in-depth safari experience, then this tour is tailor-made for you. This 10-day all-inclusive adventure, guided by our local experts, immerses you in a comprehensive wildlife safari across Tanzania’s iconic Northern Circuit.

It’s a journey that not only brings you close to the captivating wildlife but also delves deep into the region’s rich natural environment, history, and vibrant local culture.

Day

Highlights

Overnight

Day 1

Arrive in Arusha

Arusha

Day 2

Transfer to Tarangire

Tarangire National Park

Day 3

Transfer to Lake Manyara

Lake Manyara

Days 4–6

Transfer to Serengeti National Park, game drives

Serengeti National Park

Day 7

Serengeti to Karatu

Karatu

Day 8

Ngorongoro Crater – Ngare Nanyuki

Ngare Nanyuki

Day 9

Ngare Nanyuki

Ngare Nanyuki

Day 10

Depart

 

This remarkable itinerary takes you on a journey through a variety of Tanzanian destinations, each with its own unique charm.

  • Tarangire National Park, with its dense elephant populations, offers thrilling game drives.
  • Lake Manyara, famous for its birdlife, provides a serene and scenic backdrop.
  • Serengeti National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is where you would witness the Great Migration and encounter Africa’s Big Five.
  • Ngorongoro Crater, often dubbed the “Eighth Wonder of the World” is home to an array of wildlife.
  • Finally, the Ngare Nanyuki region offers a captivating blend of culture and nature.

10-Day Mount Kilimanjaro Trekking and Wildlife Safari

The 10-day adventure in Tanzania combines the thrill of conquering Mount Kilimanjaro and an unforgettable wildlife safari. This extraordinary itinerary is ideal for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts who are ready to take on the challenge of trekking Africa’s highest peak and then explore the stunning landscapes and incredible wildlife in the surrounding national parks.

Day

Highlights

Overnight

Day 1

Arrive in Arusha, transfer to Moshi

Moshi

Day 2

Moshi – Marangu Gate – Mandara Hut

Kilimanjaro National Park

Day 3

Mandara Hut – Horombo Hut

Kilimanjaro National Park

Day 4

Horombo Hut – Kibo Hut

Kilimanjaro National Park

Day 5

Kibo Hut – Uhuru Peak – Horombo Hut

Kilimanjaro National Park

Day 6

Horombo Hut – Marangu Gate – Arusha

Arusha

Day 7

Arusha – Lake Manyara National Park

Lake Manyara National Park

Day 8

Lake Manyara – Serengeti National Park

Serengeti National Park

Day 9

Serengeti – Ngorongoro Crater

Ngorongoro Crater

Day 10

Ngorongoro – Arusha

 

This adventurous itinerary covers a range of remarkable destinations, from the awe-inspiring Mount Kilimanjaro to the stunning natural wonders of Lake Manyara National Park, the vast plains of Serengeti National Park, and the unique landscapes of Ngorongoro Crater. Highlights include trekking to Uhuru Peak on Mount Kilimanjaro, witnessing the Great Migration, and exploring the rich biodiversity of Ngorongoro.

The perfect two week Tanzania safari itinerary

This two-week Tanzania safari itinerary is a delightful journey through Tanzania’s multifaceted landscape, offering a balanced blend of wildlife encounters, cultural immersion, and tranquil beach getaways. It’s perfect for travelers who desire a comprehensive experience of Tanzania’s rich offerings. If you’re dreaming of a 14-day journey through Tanzania that covers the iconic Serengeti, the majestic Mount Kilimanjaro, the paradisiacal Zanzibar, and the lively city of Dar es Salaam, this comprehensive itinerary is tailor-made for you.

Day 1-2: Arrival in Dar es Salaam
Day 3-6: Serengeti National Park
Day 7-9: Mount Kilimanjaro Trek
Day 10-12: Zanzibar Island
Day 13-14: Return to Dar es Salaam and Departure

Your journey commences in the bustling coastal city of Dar es Salaam. Get acquainted with the local culture, explore vibrant markets, and savor delicious Swahili cuisine. The second day is dedicated to a city tour, where you can immerse yourself in the historical and cultural highlights of Dar es Salaam.

Next, you’ll take a flight to the legendary Serengeti National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Over four days, you’ll embark on thrilling game drives through the vast wilderness, encountering the incredible wildlife of the Serengeti. Keep an eye out for the Big Five and the mesmerizing Great Migration if you’re visiting during the right season.

Your adventure then takes you to the town of Moshi, the gateway to Mount Kilimanjaro. You’ll begin your ascent of Africa’s highest peak, choosing from various routes like Machame or Marangu. Over three days, you’ll traverse diverse ecosystems, ultimately reaching the summit to witness an awe-inspiring sunrise.

Zanzibar Island is your next destination, where pristine beaches, rich history, and aromatic spice plantations await. Explore Stone Town’s narrow streets, visit the Sultan’s Palace, and dive into the island’s unique culture. Optional activities like snorkeling, a spice tour, and beachfront relaxation complete your Zanzibar experience.

Book Your Tanzania Safari Itinerary Today

  1. Visitors who prefer to travel by roads, with small tours or private guides should choose a northern safari
  2. Visitors who want to escape into the wilderness should choose a southern safari
  3. If you want to see the wildebeest and the great migration, you should choose a northern safari
  4. You could easily expand this into a 10-14 day Tanzania safari itinerary to include more time in each place and visit other parks like the Selous Game Reserve.
  5. The cost of a Tanzania safari itinerary can vary greatly depending on several factors, including the length of the trip, the level of luxury and accommodations, the number of people in your group, the time of year, and the specific parks and activities you choose. Here are some rough estimates for a  7 -day Tanzania safari cost: Budget: $4,000 per person Luxury:  $10,000 per person
  6. Children under the age of 12 tend to pay 50% of the adult rate, and children under 6 tend to be free of charge. 

We request a 30 % deposit to secure your safari. There is no deadline for this but we will not secure the accommodations and reserve the staff and vehicle until a deposit has been made. Deposits can also be transferred for use by another person. We accept online payments and bank wire transfers directly into our bank account. The remaining balance is not due until the start of your safari.

After booking we are still capable of making changes in the itinerary around what is possible with the accommodations. Also the hotel in Moshi is included in our safari prices. Our office is based in Marangu – Kilimanjaro National Park but we can also pick you up/drop you off in Arusha or at the airport.

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Greetings,
My name is Josephat Mashehe. As a tour planner and local expert, I specialize in serving as a private guide for Mount Kilimanjaro and East African safaris. I offer personalized trekking experiences that are tailored to each person's specific needs.
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