Tanzania · Safari

7-Day Tanzania Wildlife Safari with Serengeti and Zanzibar Escape

7 Days Round trip from Arusha Easy pace

The journey

Trip highlights

01 Explore the extraordinary heart of the Central Serengeti, where wildlife populations are at their largest
02 Look for big cats across the Serengeti's classic savannah grasslands and silhouetted acacia trees
03 Wander through Zanzibar's atmospheric Stone Town, with its winding alleys and spice-laden markets
04 Take a boat trip to Changuu Island to see giant tortoises, some over 120 years old
05 Swim, snorkel, and enjoy a beach barbecue on the stunning sandbar of Nakupenda Island

Embark on a 7-day Tanzania wildlife safari that combines time in Arusha, game-viewing in the Central Serengeti, and a tropical escape to Zanzibar Island. Explore classic savannah landscapes known for big cats and other wildlife, then unwind among Stone Town's historic alleys, beautiful beaches, coral gardens, and snorkeling spots. The journey also includes a boat trip to Changuu Island, home to giant tortoises, followed by time on Nakupenda Island. With thrilling wildlife encounters, coastal scenery, and memorable island experiences, this tour offers a varied adventure across Tanzania.

Here in the Central Serengeti is where wildlife populations are largest, and it's especially good for seeing all three big cats.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 7 Days

Tour type Private

Activity level Easy

Accommodation Included · Standard

Transport Included

Wheelchair access Yes

Cities Arusha, Zanzibar, Mount Kilimanjaro, Serengeti National Park, Tarangire National Park, Changuu

Languages English, French, German, Italian, Spanish

Day by day

The itinerary

Day 01

Arrival and First Impressions of Arusha

It's time to begin your safari. Welcome to Tanzania!
After we greet you and provide you with a trip briefing about the 7 Day Explore Tanzania Wildlife Safari, we'll take you out to help you discover why so many people think Tanzania is the best place in Africa to go on safari.
Arusha has so many things happening that it can be difficult to know where to look.
There are busy markets, informative museums, and terrific restaurants and street food. Even just standing on a busy street corner and watching the world go by can be an education.
By the end of it all, Arusha could end up being an unexpected highlight of your 7 Day Explore Tanzania Wildlife Safari.

Accommodation

Dinner and overnight at Forest Hill Hotel.

Day 02

Wildlife Viewing in the Central Serengeti

There's nowhere in Tanzania where you have a better chance of seeing big cats than in the Central Serengeti.
You'll also see lots of other animals as you explore the savannah grasslands and silhouetted acacia trees with us. This is the Serengeti's heartland, and it is the most popular area of the park, but with very good reason.
Elephants and baobabs will probably be your highlights when you visit Tarangire, but sightings of lions are also possible, as are wildebeest, giraffes, hippos, buffaloes, baboons, vervet monkeys, and zebras.

Dinner and overnight at Land of Nature Camps & Lodges.

Day 03

Exploring the Heart of the Serengeti

You're going to be exploring the extraordinary heart of the Serengeti.
Here in the Central Serengeti is where wildlife populations are largest, and it's especially good for seeing all three big cats.
It's here also that you get to experience the classic savannah grasslands and acacia trees that are the signature landscapes of the East African safari.

Dinner and overnight at Land of Nature Camps & Lodges.

Day 04

Arrival on Zanzibar Island

Zanzibar Island is a fascinating place to explore. The long, beautiful beaches that hem in this tropical Indian Ocean island are a big part of its appeal.
Another highlight is the atmospheric old Stone Town, a time-warped knot of winding alleys that leads past some fine historic buildings and bustling spice-laden markets.
Offshore, a series of fringing reefs and coral gardens offers wonderful snorkeling and diving too.

Dinner and overnight at Tui Blue Bahari Zanzibar.

Day 05

Stone Town and Zanzibar's Senses

Enjoy exploring Zanzibar Island further. Smell the spices, admire the architecture, and let yourself be carried away by the Muslim call to prayer as you explore Zanzibar Stone Town.

Dinner and overnight at Tui Blue Bahari Zanzibar.

Day 06

Changuu Island and Nakupenda Sandbar Escape

Spend more time exploring Zanzibar Island, starting with a boat trip to Changuu Island, famously known as Prison Island. Originally built as a prison in the 1890s, it became a quarantine center instead.
Today, it's home to a sanctuary for giant tortoises introduced from the Seychelles, with some over 120 years old.
After visiting, enjoy a swim and a beach barbecue on Nakupenda Island, a stunning sandbar revealed by the tides.
Snorkeling here unveils vibrant marine life and dazzling underwater colors, offering an extraordinary experience. Let the island's natural beauty and unique history captivate you at every turn.

Accommodation: Tui Blue Bahari Zanzibar.

Day 07

Farewell to Tanzania

Your Tanzanian safari draws to a close, and we're sure that you will have enjoyed it as much as we have.

Where this trip takes you

Central Serengeti savannah, Tarangire baobabs and elephants, Stone Town alleys, Nakupenda Island sandbar

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map — Round trip from Arusha 6 cities · 7 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

Accommodation: Stay in lodges, tented camps, or hotels throughout the safari.
Transportation: 4x4 safari vehicle with a professional, English-speaking guide/driver.
Game drives: Daily game drives in Tarangire, Ngorongoro Crater, Serengeti, and Lake Manyara.
Park fees: All entrance fees for national parks and reserve.
Meals: Full board (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the safari.
Drinks: Drinking water during game drives.
Airport transfers: Pickup and drop-off at Kilimanjaro International Airport or Arusha.

What's Not Included

International flights: Flights to and from Tanzania.
Travel insurance: Any travel insurance other than emergency evacuation.
Visa fees: Visa costs, if applicable, based on your nationality.
Personal expenses: Souvenirs, laundry, phone calls, etc.
Tipping: Tips for guides, drivers, and lodge staff (customary but not included).
Alcoholic beverages: Any drinks that are not included with meals.
Optional activities: Extra activities like hot-air balloon rides, cultural visits, or walking safaris.
Laundry services: Unless specified by your lodge or camp.

What to bring

Clothing:
- Light, breathable, neutral-colored clothing (khaki, beige, brown) for safaris.
- Warm layers for early mornings and evenings, as it can get chilly.
- Comfortable walking shoes for safaris and casual wear.
- A hat and sunglasses for sun protection.
- Swimwear, if your accommodation has a pool.
Safari Essentials:
- Binoculars for wildlife spotting.
- Camera with extra memory cards and batteries.
- Daypack for carrying essentials on game drives.
- Water bottle to stay hydrated.
- Insect repellent (mosquitoes are common).
- Sunscreen with high SPF.
Health & Safety:
- Personal medications and a small first-aid kit.
- Malaria prophylaxis (consult your doctor).
- Hand sanitizer or wet wipes for hygiene.
- Travel insurance and any medical documents.
Documents & Miscellaneous:
- Passport (valid for at least 6 months from your travel date).
- Visa (if required).
- Credit cards and some U.S. dollars in cash, in case you need them.
- Power bank to charge devices on the go.

Know before you go

Visa & Passport: Most visitors need a visa to enter Tanzania, which can be obtained on arrival or online. Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your travel date.
Health & Vaccinations: Consult your doctor for recommended vaccinations (e.g., yellow fever, hepatitis A/B, typhoid). Malaria prophylaxis is often advised. Bring any personal medications and a basic first-aid kit.
Currency: The Tanzanian Shilling (TZS) is the local currency, but U.S. dollars are widely accepted in tourist areas. Carry small cash for tips and personal expenses. ATMs are available in Arusha, but not in remote areas.
Weather: Tanzania has a tropical climate. The dry season (June-October) is ideal for safaris, while the rainy season (March-May) is less predictable. Be prepared for cooler mornings and evenings, even in the dry season.
Tipping: It's customary to tip guides, drivers, and lodge staff. Guides typically receive $10-$20 per day, and drivers $5-$10 per day. Tip at your discretion, but be prepared to do so.
Wildlife Etiquette: Always follow your guide's instructions and maintain a safe distance from wildlife. Never feed animals. Safari vehicles are designed for the best viewing but must remain on designated tracks.
Connectivity: Internet and mobile phone coverage can be limited in remote areas. Purchase a local SIM card in Arusha for better service, but note that some lodges may have limited Wi-Fi.
Time Zone & Electricity: Tanzania is in East Africa Time (EAT), UTC +3. The electrical voltage is 230V, with Type D/G plugs. Bring an adapter if needed.
Safety & Security: Tanzania is generally safe for tourists, but like any travel destination, it's important to stay alert, especially in cities. Use hotel safes for valuables and avoid displaying expensive items in public.
Cultural Etiquette: Tanzanians are friendly and respectful. While English is widely spoken, learning a few words in Swahili, such as 'Jambo' (hello), can go a long way. Dress modestly in rural areas.