12 Days Exploring North circuit with Zanzibar

Overview

This 12-day safari combines the best of northern Tanzania's wildlife and landscapes with a relaxing stay on Zanzibar Island. From the elephants of Tarangire, the flamingos of Lake Manyara, the plains of the Serengeti, to the dramatic Ngorongoro Crater, this journey offers a complete safari experience. Zanzibar adds a tropical beach retreat to end your adventure in style.

Accommodation is in luxury lodges and tented camps on the mainland, and boutique resorts on Zanzibar, blending comfort with authentic experiences.

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival at JRO – Kibo Palace Hotel

Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), you will be met by your driver-guide and transferred to Kibo Palace Hotel in Arusha. The day is free to relax and prepare for your safari.

Overnight at Kibo Palace Hotel.

  • Kibo Palace Hotel

  • Arusha

Day 2: Tarangire National Park – Furaha Luxury Lodge

Drive to Tarangire National Park, known for its elephant herds and iconic baobab trees. Enjoy a game drive along the river and spotting lions, giraffes, zebras, and birds.

Overnight at Furaha Luxury Lodge.

  • Furaha Luxury Lodge

  • Arusha

Day 3: Lake Manyara – Marera Valley Lodge

After breakfast, visit Lake Manyara National Park, famous for its tree-climbing lions, flamingos, and lush forests. Explore the park on a morning game drive before continuing to Marera Valley Lodge for a relaxing afternoon.

Dinner and overnight at Marera Valley Lodge.

  • Marera Valley Lodge.

  • Karatu

Day 4: Serengeti – Sound of Nature Camp

Travel to the Serengeti, passing through the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Enjoy an afternoon game drive in the Seronera Valley, known for its abundance of predators and wildlife.

Overnight at Sound of Nature Camp.

  • Sound of Nature Camp.

  • Serengeti

Day 5: Serengeti – Sound of Nature Camp

Spend a full day exploring the Serengeti plains, tracking wildebeest, zebras, lions, leopards, and elephants. The day is flexible to follow wildlife movements, maximizing sightings.

Return to Sound of Nature Camp for dinner and overnight.

  • Sound of Nature Camp

  • Serengeti

Day 6: Ngorongoro Ndutu – Marera Valley Lodge

Drive to the Ndutu region, part of the southern Serengeti, home to the wildebeest calving season between December and March. Enjoy afternoon game drives, witnessing predator-prey interactions and vast herds.

Overnight at Marera Valley Lodge.

  • Marera Valley Lodge.

  • Karatu

Day 7: Ngorongoro Crater – Gold Crest Hotel

Descend into the Ngorongoro Crater for a full day game drive. Spot elephants, hippos, buffalo, lions, and the rare black rhino in this iconic natural wonder.

Overnight at Gold Crest Hotel in Arusha.

  • Gold Crest Hotel

  • Arusha

Day 8: Transfer to ARK – Fly to Zanzibar – Maisha Maatamu

After breakfast, transfer to Arusha Airport (ARK) for your flight to Zanzibar. Upon arrival, you'll be taken to Maisha Maatamu, a boutique beach resort for relaxation and leisure.

Overnight at Maisha Maatamu.

  • Maisha Maatamu.

  • Zanzibar

Day 9: Relax at Maisha Maatamu

Spend the day enjoying the beach, swimming, snorkeling, or just relaxing by the turquoise waters of Zanzibar. Meals and leisure activities are included.

Overnight at Maisha Maatamu.

  • Maisha Maatamu.

  • Zanzibar

Day 10: Transfer to Kisiwa House

Travel to Kisiwa House, another boutique resort offering a quiet retreat on Zanzibar. Enjoy the serene atmosphere, beach views, and personalized service.

Overnight at Kisiwa House.

  • Kisiwa House.

  • Zanzibar

Day 11: Relax at Kisiwa House

Spend a full day relaxing on Zanzibar's beaches, exploring local culture, or enjoying water sports. The day is at leisure to fully unwind.

Overnight at Kisiwa House.

  • Kisiwa House.

  • Zanzibar

Day 12: Transfer to Zanzibar Airport

After breakfast, transfer to Zanzibar Airport for your onward flight, marking the end of your unforgettable 12-day Tanzania and Zanzibar adventure.

Include

  • Full board accommodation as specified on safari.

  • 4wd Land cruiser vehicle with pop-up roof.

  • Well-trained driver-guide.

  • Full board meals whilst on safari

  • All the national park fees as per itinerary.

  • All meals whilst on safari.

  • Mineral water.

Exclude

  • Airfares airport taxes and fees

  • Laundry.

  • Entry visas and vaccinations.

  • Personal items.

  • Tips and gratuities.

  • Travel Insurance.

  • Optional tour.

  • Guide tips and any items of personal nature.

Plan Your Trip

Your adventure begins here. Please fill in the Plan Your Trip form  and let us create a personalized safari experience just for you — crafted with care, passion, and the true spirit of Africa.