Tanzania and Zanzibar: How to Plan the Perfect Safari and Beach Holiday
A Tanzania & Zanzibar holiday is one of the most complete and rewarding travel experiences you can enjoy in East Africa: the thrill of a safari followed by the serenity of the Indian Ocean. From the vast plains of the Serengeti and the spectacular Ngorongoro Crater to Zanzibar’s pristine white-sand beaches, this combination appeals to wildlife enthusiasts and travellers seeking relaxation alike. But how should you plan it? How long should you stay, and when is the best time to travel? Here's our guide to create your tailor-made Tanzania and Zanzibar adventure.
Tanzania and Zanzibar: Why Is It Such a Great Combination?
Spotting wildlife on the African savannah before spending a few days in Zanzibar is the perfect balance of safari, beach and culture, whether you're planning a family holiday in Africa or a honeymoon in Tanzania.
Easy to organise, this combination allows you to enjoy two completely different experiences in a single trip:
- A perfect balance: after the excitement and adrenaline of a safari, slow the pace by the ocean. Explore colourful coral reefs and wander through traditional Swahili villages.
- Convenient proximity: Zanzibar is just a 20-minute flight from Dar es Salaam, or around one hour from Arusha. You can even fly directly to the Spice Island from the heart of the Serengeti to save valuable travel time.
- Seamless logistics thanks to a travel agency specialising in Tanzania (domestic flights, transfers, accommodation and experienced guides).
- Maximum convenience: mainland Tanzania and Zanzibar share the same currency and entry requirements.
✏️ Zanzibar also combines perfectly with a holiday in Kenya.
When Is the Best Time to Visit Tanzania and Zanzibar?
Both destinations generally share the same weather patterns. The dry season, from June to October, offers pleasant temperatures that are ideal for both safari adventures and beach holidays.
| Period | Tanzania (Safari) | Zanzibar (Beach) | Our Recommendation |
| January – March |
✅ Wildebeest calving season around the Ngorongoro Crater |
✅ Warm weather, little rainfall |
Ideal for a Zanzibar & Ngorongoro itinerary |
| June – October |
✅ The Great Migration in the Serengeti |
✅ Dry season | Best overall time to visit |
| November |
⚠️ Short rainy season |
✅ Good |
Acceptable |
| April – May |
⚠️ Long rainy season (but lush green landscapes) |
❌ Not recommended |
Best avoided |
-> Discover all our practical tips in our Tanzania Travel Guide.
How Long Should You Spend in Tanzania and Zanzibar?
If you're short on time or travelling on a limited budget, an 8-day itinerary allows you to experience the highlights of Tanzania: spend 5 days on safari exploring Tarangire National Park, famous for its elephants and majestic baobab trees, the spectacular Ngorongoro Crater and Lake Manyara, before heading to Zanzibar for a relaxing 3-night stay.
If you have a little more time, the ideal duration for a combined Tanzania and Zanzibar holiday is between 10 and 14 days: dedicate at least one week to wildlife viewing, followed by 3 to 4 days on the island. This itinerary gives you enough time to explore the legendary Serengeti National Park in addition to Ngorongoro, Tarangire and Lake Manyara.
How Much Does a Tanzania & Zanzibar Holiday Cost?
One of Africa's most exclusive destinations, Tanzania is firmly positioned as a premium travel destination. Several factors influence the overall cost, including the season, the standard of accommodation, national park entrance fees, a private 4x4 safari vehicle with an experienced driver-guide, and domestic flights to Zanzibar.
For an 8-day tailor-made safari and beach holiday, prices start from €2,210 per person, based on two travellers. A 10-day itinerary with a Zanzibar extension starts from €2,935 per person, also based on two people sharing.
-> Looking to reduce the cost of your Tanzania and Zanzibar holiday? Our small-group guided tours in East Africa offer an excellent way to enjoy an unforgettable safari while significantly lowering the overall price.
Tanzania & Zanzibar: The Expertise of a French-Speaking Travel Agency Based in Africa
6 Tips for Planning the Perfect Tanzania and Zanzibar Holiday
- Choose a multi-day safari to visit at least two different national parks and maximise your wildlife viewing opportunities.
- Spend at least 3 nights in Zanzibar to explore Stone Town, relax on the island's beautiful beaches and go snorkelling in Nungwi or Paje.
- Avoid an overly busy itinerary: whenever possible, spend at least two nights in each location (except for overnight stopovers).
- Choose well-located lodges, either inside the national parks or just outside their boundaries.
- Include domestic flights (fly-in safaris) to save time if your budget allows.
- Book early if you're travelling during the high season.
A Complete, Hassle-Free Travel Experience
Whether you choose a guided tour of Tanzania or a 100% tailor-made itinerary, we can add a relaxing beach stay in Zanzibar to your holiday.
Domestic flights, lodges within the national parks and transfers to Zanzibar: planning a safari and beach holiday like this requires expert organisation. That's why our South Africa-based travel agency works with a trusted network of local partners throughout Tanzania.
You'll enjoy French-speaking assistance before, during and after your safari, with responsive local support and preferential negotiated rates.
Ready to Experience Tanzania and Zanzibar?
This is the ideal itinerary for travellers looking to combine adventure and relaxation without compromise. It showcases the very best of East Africa: some of the continent's most spectacular photographic safaris and idyllic white-sand beaches along the Indian Ocean.
Our East Africa travel specialists will help you design an itinerary tailored to your interests, your budget and your preferred travel pace.
-> Contact our team to start planning your tailor-made Tanzania and Zanzibar holiday.