12 Days Tanzania Family Safari and Zanzibar

Distance Covered: 50 km

Upon your arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, our dedicated safari manager will warmly greet you and provide a comfortable transfer to Planet Lodge in Arusha. Situated in the suburbs of Arusha town, Planet Lodge stands out as one of the finest accommodations, boasting a picturesque view of Mount Meru (4,566 m). The lodge features charming traditional African-style huts nestled within a tropical garden, and a refreshing pool ensures moments of rejuvenation on warm days.

After a smooth check-in process, our safari manager will guide you through the details of your 12-day family safari special package. Subsequently, you’ll have the remainder of the day to unwind and immerse yourself in the tranquility of your lodge. Enjoy an overnight stay at Planet Lodge in Arusha town, where both dinner and breakfast are included in your experience.

Distance Covered: 120 km

Non-game Driving Time: 2 to 3 hrs.

Start your day with a delightful breakfast and rendezvous with your safari driver-guide in the lobby. The journey to **Tarangire National Park** commences, passing through Arusha town where you can conveniently handle currency exchange or make any last-minute purchases. Covering an expansive area, Tarangire is the fifth-largest national park in Tanzania and is renowned for its captivating landscapes.

The park is distinguished by the Tarangire River, a flourishing elephant population, and the iconic baobab trees that tower over various animal species seeking shade beneath them. Notably, Tarangire is part of the Tarangire–Lake Manyara ecosystem, hosting an annual migration of over 3000 elephants, wildebeests, and zebras. Alongside the impressive elephant population, anticipate sightings of giraffes, buffaloes, zebras, warthogs, as well as the rare species of Lesser and Greater Kudu, Oryx, and the Ash Staling.

Your overnight stay awaits at the delightful Sangaiwe Tented Lodge, where all meals are included. Immerse yourself in the unique charm of this lodge and prepare for an evening surrounded by the sounds of the African wilderness.

**Distance: Lake Manyara to Lake Eyasi – 84 km**

Having spent considerable time in planes and cars, today is dedicated to invigorating physical activities, guided by a knowledgeable local guide. Begin with a walk through **Mto wa Mbu Village**, immersing yourself in the local social and economic activities, educational insights, and more. A local lunch will be served in the village to enhance your cultural experience. Alternatively, opt for a biking tour through the village and along the shores of Lake Manyara, which may include a canoeing ride on the lake.

In the afternoon, embark on a scenic drive to **Lake Eyasi** for further cultural encounters, including a visit to the Datoga tribe and the blacksmith. As the day unfolds, head to the lakeshore to witness a breathtaking sunset. Your overnight stay promises a unique experience at **Lake Eyasi Safari Lodge**, where all meals are included. Immerse yourself in the rich cultural tapestry of the region and enjoy the tranquility of the lake surroundings as the day comes to a close.

**Distance: Lake Eyasi to Ngorongoro Highlands – 60 km**

**Non-game Viewing Time: 1 to 2 hrs.**

Commence your day with a short journey covering 60 km, with a non-game viewing time of 1 to 2 hours. The morning unfolds with an extraordinary experience as you engage in early morning hunting with the Bushman, providing you with insights and lessons on survival skills. The Bushman, an indigenous tribe consisting of three clans – Hadzabe, Datoga, and Tindiga – thrives on hunting and gathering, reminiscent of the lifestyle of those who lived in the Stone Age.

Before noon, depart for the **Ngorongoro Highlands** and ascend into the **Ngorongoro Crater** for a remarkable game viewing adventure. A packed lunch will be served on the crater floor, enhancing your immersive experience. Regarded as one of Tanzania’s premier attractions and considered a natural wonder of the world, the Ngorongoro Crater offers close encounters with a variety of wildlife. Due to the limited migration of animals in and out of the 600-meter crater walls, you can expect to observe animals up close, including lions, hyenas, black rhinos, buffaloes, elephants, hippos, and a plethora of bird species.

This unique location is one of the few places globally where the rare black rhino can be observed in its natural habitat, and the possibility of spotting the Big Five during a single day of game drives is a testament to the exceptional biodiversity of the area. Your overnight stay at **Ngorongoro Rhino Lodge** on the Crater rim ensures a tranquil evening surrounded by the natural beauty of the highlands. All meals are included, providing a seamless continuation of your immersive safari experience.

Distance: Ngorongoro Highlands to Serengeti National Park – 85 km

Non-game Viewing Time: 2 to 3 hrs.

Embark on the next leg of your extraordinary 12-day family safari special and Zanzibar adventure after a hearty breakfast. Head towards the renowned Serengeti National Park, a world-famous wildlife sanctuary and UNESCO’s designated Nature and Biosphere Reserve. The 85-kilometer journey promises captivating sights along the way, as you traverse the Ngorongoro Highlands and descend onto the vast plains of the Serengeti. Keep an eye out for grazing zebras, elephants, giraffes, and numerous antelopes during this scenic drive.

En route, take a delightful detour to visit a traditional Masai village, where friendly Masai warriors will warmly welcome you. Explore their village, gain insights into their customary way of life, and witness their iconic jumping dance. Feel free to join in and experience the exhilarating jumps alongside them. The Masai warriors will then invite you into their homes, introducing you to their families, offering an opportunity for questions, and allowing you to capture memorable photographs.

Upon reaching Naabi Hill gate, the entrance to the Serengeti Park, you can enjoy a packed lunch either at the gate or at the Copjes (rock outcroppings) beyond Naabi Hills gate. These rocky areas often attract lions, cheetahs, and occasionally leopards. Continue your adventure with game driving in the Serengeti, aiming to reach your camp before or during the picturesque sunset. Your overnight stay at Serengeti Tanzania Bush Camp in Central Serengeti ensures a comfortable and immersive experience, with all meals included. Relax and relish the anticipation of the wildlife encounters that await you in this iconic national park.

**Day 6: Serengeti Exploration – Wildebeest Migration**

**Start Time: 06:30 (Optional)**

Embark on the 6th day of your great family safari special with an optional early start, chasing the first rays of the sun at 06:30 for an exhilarating early morning game drive in the Serengeti. Onboard, you’ll have packed breakfast and lunch boxes, allowing for uninterrupted exploration. Follow the awe-inspiring Wildebeest Migration if it is within the Serengeti during this time, immersing yourself in the spectacle and spending quality time observing these incredible creatures.

As you navigate the Serengeti, keep an eye out for the cat family, often visible on the roads as they maneuver through the landscape, avoiding the morning mist. Witness the activities of nocturnal predators returning from their night of hunting, catch glimpses of lionesses organizing ambushes, and observe other animals emerging from their hiding places to commence a new day.

Break for a bush breakfast, enhancing your safari experience with the sounds and sights of the Serengeti. After breakfast, continue your game drives towards the locations where the migration herds are concentrated. In the afternoon, enjoy a packed lunch at Seronera Visitor’s Center, where you can delve into interesting documentaries about the Serengeti.

Embark on your afternoon game drives, returning to your camp a bit early to unwind, relax, and relish the captivating sunset. Your overnight stay at **Serengeti Tanzania Bush Camp** in Central Serengeti ensures a comfortable and immersive experience, with all meals included.

*Dinner and overnight accommodation are provided at the camp, offering a perfect conclusion to a day filled with unforgettable wildlife encounters.*

**After Serengeti Exploration: Transfer to Zanzibar**

**Morning: Last Breakfast in Serengeti Camp**

After savoring your final breakfast at the camp in Serengeti, your adventure takes a new turn. Bid farewell to the enchanting landscapes of the Serengeti as you are transferred to Seronera Airstrip. From there, catch your flight to Zanzibar, where a new chapter of your journey awaits.

**Afternoon: Arrival at Zanzibar Airport**

Upon arrival at Zanzibar Airport, a friendly representative will be there to welcome you. They will accompany you to your beach resort and provide you with a comprehensive overview of the Zanzibar program. Take this opportunity to familiarize yourself with the upcoming experiences while enjoying the tropical allure of the pristine white sand beaches.

**Evening: Relaxation at Ocean Paradise Beach Resort**

Your overnight stay will be at the idyllic **Ocean Paradise Beach Resort**, where dinner and breakfast are included. Immerse yourself in the tranquil ambiance of Zanzibar, unwind by the beach, and let the soothing sounds of the ocean serenade you. This marks the beginning of your beach retreat, promising relaxation and rejuvenation on the beautiful shores of Zanzibar.

**Zanzibar Beach Retreat**

**Day at Leisure: Enjoy the Sparkling Beaches**

Your time in Zanzibar invites relaxation and enjoyment of the sparkling beaches. Spend the day at leisure, soaking in the tropical sun and the breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean. The pristine sands of Zanzibar offer a perfect backdrop for tranquil moments and rejuvenation.

**Optional Water Sports Activities**

If you desire some adventure, consider organizing water sports activities right at your resort. Choose from a range of options including diving, snorkeling, fishing, and more. Immerse yourself in the vibrant underwater world or enjoy the thrill of water-based activities at your own pace.

**Overnight Stay at Ocean Paradise Beach Resort**

As the day winds down, retreat to the comforts of **Ocean Paradise Beach Resort** for another night of serenity. Your overnight stay includes dinner and breakfast, allowing you to savor delicious meals while listening to the soothing sounds of the ocean.

**Conclusion of the 7-Day Tanzania Family Safari**

Your 7-day Tanzania Family Safari concludes with a beachfront paradise in Zanzibar. From the wonders of the Serengeti to the relaxation of Zanzibar’s beaches, this journey has been filled with diverse experiences and unforgettable moments. Cherish the memories made during your family adventure in Tanzania.

**Zanzibar Spice Tour and Transfer to Stone Town**

**Morning: Breakfast at Ocean Paradise Beach Resort**

Begin your day with a delightful breakfast at Ocean Paradise Beach Resort, preparing for the next chapter of your Zanzibar adventure.

**Spice Tour Option: Aromatic Exploration**

En route to Stone Town, consider indulging in our famous Spice Tour. Led by a knowledgeable guide, this tour offers detailed information about spices and organically grown herbs. Explore a spice farm where you can see, touch, and even sample a variety of spices, including cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, pepper, nutmeg, and vanilla. Gain insights into their uses in cooking, cosmetics, and medicine. Conclude the tour with tastings of tropical fruits like jackfruit, durian, passion fruit, mangoes, and more, depending on the season.

**Culinary Delights: Spice Restaurant Experience**

Following the Spice Tour, savor the flavors of Zanzibar at Spice Restaurant, where delicious dishes infused with the aromatic spices of the region await.

**Afternoon: Transfer to Stone Town**

Drive to your hotel in Stone Town, the historic heart of Zanzibar. If you wish, take some short walks around this old and culturally rich town (on your own). Immerse yourself in the captivating blend of history and architecture that Stone Town has to offer.

**Overnight Stay at Tembo House Hotel**

Conclude your day with an overnight stay at **Tembo House Hotel** in Stone Town. Breakfast is included, ensuring a delightful start to the day and preparing you for further exploration of Zanzibar’s cultural and historical gems.

Morning Exploration and Departure

Morning: Breakfast at Tembo House Hotel

Start your final day in Zanzibar with a hearty breakfast at Tembo House Hotel, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of Stone Town.

Optional Stone Town Tour: Historical Insights

Depending on your flight time, consider opting for a guided Stone Town tour. Immerse yourself in the rich history and culture as you visit key historical sites, including the Central Market to witness the arrival of fresh fish from different corners of the island. Explore the Former Slave Market, The House of Wonders, The Old Fort, and The Palace Museum. Take an intriguing walk along the narrow lanes of Stone Town, where you can engage in some last-minute shopping.

Afternoon: Transfer to Zanzibar Airport

Following the exploration, we’ll transfer you to Zanzibar Airport, ensuring a seamless transition to your departure. Reflect on the diverse experiences, cultural discoveries, and natural wonders encountered during your family safari and Zanzibar beach retreat.

End of Service

Your 12-day journey through Tanzania’s landscapes, wildlife, and coastal beauty concludes with this transfer to Zanzibar Airport. We trust that your memories of this adventure will be cherished, and we look forward to hosting you again for future explorations. Safe travels back home!