Everything you need to know to plan your trip to Tanzania and Zanzibar perfectly
Tanzania and Zanzibar embody the quintessential African experience, combining the thrill of extraordinary safaris in the stunning Serengeti and the captivating Ngorongoro Crater, with the luxury of quality accommodations that maintain an intimate connection with the surrounding nature, and the endless beauty of pristine beaches lapped by the crystal-clear waters of the Indian Ocean.
It’s no coincidence that Tanzania is one of the top destinations for travelers in Africa, captivating not only honeymooning couples but anyone seeking an exciting and exotic adventure. Planning a trip to Tanzania may seem like a daunting task, with multiple aspects to consider and a multitude of valuable experiences to discover.
We are experts in safaris in Tanzania, and our goal is to guide you through this fascinating country, making your experience not only memorable but also enjoyable from the start.
If you’re in the research phase, I’m confident that in this post you will find many answers to the many questions you may have, from the necessary documents to how to best organize your safari and choose the perfect beach in Zanzibar for a few days of complete relaxation.
For circuit ideas and costs, I recommend reading the post on safari tours in Tanzania.
Travel to Tanzania: Practical advice before organizing your trip
Before delving into the actual planning, there are some very important things you need to keep in mind.
- Visa for Tanzania: It is advisable to apply for the visa in advance on the official Government of Tanzania website: https://visa.immigration.go.tz/. It seems that from January 30, 2025, the online visa will be mandatory and it will not be possible to obtain it on arrival. The visa costs $50 per person (adults and children) and allows you to stay in the country for up to 90 days.
- Health insurance: From May 2023, it is mandatory to take out travel medical insurance before entering the country. It is also mandatory to purchase additional health insurance to travel to Zanzibar.
- Passport: To enter Tanzania, it is mandatory to have a passport valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry.
- Payments and credit cards and cash: They are not common and few businesses allow their use. In many cases, fees of up to 4% must be applied. It is advisable to always have some cash on hand. Cash payments are always welcome, with the main currency being the US dollar, but it is important to note that only banknotes issued from 2010 onwards and in good condition are accepted. Alternatively, the euro is also accepted, but the exchange rate is usually 1:1.
Things to know – Withdrawing and paying by card in Tanzania
Tanzania is predominantly a cash-based country. The use of credit cards is rare, and for those businesses that do accept them, fees of up to 5% are usually applied on the total transaction. It is recommended to always have cash with you. It is possible to withdraw Tanzanian shillings, but ATMs allow a maximum withdrawal of 300,000 shillings (approximately €130) and charge withdrawal fees. I recommend using free reloadable cards like Revolut, which offer excellent withdrawal rates. If you travel with US dollars, make sure that the banknotes have been issued after 2010, as they will not be accepted even in banks.
When to go to Tanzania and Zanzibar
Tanzania is a destination that lends itself to travel all year round, although there are more suitable periods compared to others, each characterized by its own advantages and disadvantages.
In general, the period from June to October is the most popular among tourists, as well as the most expensive. These months, known as the dry season, follow periods of heavy rains and offer a mild climate. During the night, in areas like Ngorongoro and the Serengeti, temperatures can drop significantly and rain is quite rare.
November is seen as a transitional month with brief seasonal showers. Precipitation generally lasts for one or two hours in the late afternoon and does not significantly affect tourist activities, with the advantage of lower prices compared to previous months.
The holiday period that includes Christmas and New Year, extending until mid-March, marks the return of the high season. During this time frame, intermittent rains may occur, temperatures are quite high, and the annual migration of animals in the Ndutu area takes place.
Finally, the months from mid-March to mid-May represent the low season, coinciding with the heavy rains. This period can be very rainy, national parks and Zanzibar see a decline in visitors, and as a result, both safaris and beach stays tend to be less expensive during these months.
What to See in Tanzania and Zanzibar
Despite the vast territory of Tanzania, travelers, even with time constraints, often manage to explore many of its magnificent places of interest. Typically, those spending a couple of weeks on vacation prefer to divide their time between adventurous safaris and relaxation on pristine beaches.
Before diving into the world of safari planning, let’s examine some places you may want to integrate into your itinerary, especially if you have more than two weeks of vacation time.
You will not find a list of cities, as in Tanzania, with the exception of Stone Town which is definitely worth a visit for its unique beauty, other cities tend to be transit points to access safaris or islands, rather than primary tourist destinations.
North and South National Parks of Tanzania
I will delve into specific details of safaris in Tanzania in the following paragraphs, but certainly those traveling in Tanzania choose this country as a travel destination mainly because they want to go on safaris. The parks are abundant, but generally the most popular safari circuits are the northern and southern ones.
Among the main parks are the following:
- Serengeti National Park: Famous for the spectacular annual migration of millions of wildebeest and zebras, the Serengeti is one of the most celebrated national parks in the world. The vastness of its grassy plains also provides habitat to lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos, and buffaloes.
- Ngorongoro Conservation Area: A unique area that integrates wildlife conservation with human activities. The Ngorongoro Crater, within it, is an extinct volcanic caldera that hosts an extraordinary variety of animals, including some of the few remaining black rhinos, in an almost self-contained environment.
- Tarangire National Park: Known for its ancient baobabs and large herds of elephants, Tarangire offers diverse landscapes and rich birdlife. During the dry season, animals gather around the Tarangire River, creating wildlife densities rivaling only the Serengeti.
- Lake Manyara National Park: Small but exceptionally diverse, Lake Manyara is famous for its tree-climbing lions, hundreds of bird species, and varied vegetation ranging from rainforest to savannah.
- Selous Game Reserve: One of the largest protected wildlife areas in Africa, Selous (now known as Nyerere Wildlife Reserve) is renowned for walking and boating safaris along its river meanders, hosting large populations of elephants, crocodiles, hippos, and a variety of predators.
- Ruaha National Park: Known for its wild beauty, Ruaha is the largest national park in Tanzania. The presence of the Ruaha River attracts significant densities of lions, cheetahs, and an unparalleled variety of antelopes.
- Gombe National Park: Famous for Jane Goodall’s research on primate behavior, Gombe is a paradise for chimpanzee enthusiasts. This park also offers the opportunity for forested environment hikes and views of Lake Tanganyika.
Trekking on Mount Kilimanjaro
Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest mountain in Africa, can be tackled through seven main routes, each offering its own unique combination of beauty, challenges, and rewards.
- The Lemosho route is celebrated for its breathtaking views and is favored by many climbers for its picturesque ascent along the western slope.
- The Machame route, often dubbed the “Whiskey” route, is known for its popularity and variety of landscapes, ascending the southern slope.For those seeking a more traditional experience with hut accommodations, the Marangu route is the only option, leading climbers along the eastern slope of the mountain.
- The Rongai route, the only route approaching from the north, presents a more solitary journey to the summit.
- The Shira route, similar to Lemosho in its western approach, stands out for a higher starting point.
- The Northern Circuit takes climbers on an extensive journey around the northern face of the mountain, making it the longest route on Kilimanjaro.
- The Umbwe route is the shortest and steepest challenge, suitable for the bold adventurer seeking a more severe test on the southern slope.
It is also possible to organize a single day of trekking, following the first stage of the circuit, but remember that it is a demanding and exhausting trek.
CAN YOU DO GAME DRIVES ON KILIMANJARO?
Game drives are not conducted at Kilimanjaro. Kilimanjaro National Park is exclusively dedicated to trekking. Many people are “tricked” by a famous photo of an elephant with Kilimanjaro in the background. That photo is real, but it is not taken in Tanzania but rather in Amboseli National Park, which is located in Kenya.
Homestay with the Maasai
For those wishing to immerse themselves in an authentic and intimate experience with the Maasai tribes of Tanzania, there are several options to accommodate all types of travelers and availability of time. Those with limited time who can only spend one night in a Maasai village may consider a one-day and one-night stay in a Maasai village in Longido, positioned between the majestic Mount Kilimanjaro and Mount Meru.
For those who have the opportunity to spend 6 days or more, there is the chance to venture deep into the heart of Tanzania, in the Tanga region, where it is possible to experience a profoundly genuine experience for several days, far from the beaten paths of mass tourism.
Due to the remoteness of the region from both Arusha and Dar Es Salaam, a stay of at least 6 nights is recommended to fully appreciate the immersion into Maasai culture in this remote area.
The Islands of Tanzania
Tanzania not only offers some of the most spectacular national parks on the African continent but is also renowned for its paradisiacal islands, often the final destination for many travelers seeking relaxation after a safari adventure. Below is a better overview and brief descriptions of each of the main island destinations:
- Unguja (known as Zanzibar) – Location: Part of the Zanzibar archipelago, situated in the Indian Ocean. Unguja, commonly known as Zanzibar, is the vibrant heart of the archipelago, famous for its white sandy beaches, turquoise waters, and rich coral reefs. Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a maze of narrow alleys rich in Arabian, Persian, Indian, and European cultural influences. With fragrant spices, colorful markets, and a captivating history, Zanzibar offers a perfect balance of adventure and relaxation.
- Pemba Island – Location: North of Unguja in the Zanzibar archipelago. Less known than its larger sister, Pemba Island is a paradise for diving and snorkeling enthusiasts, thanks to its crystal-clear waters and extraordinary marine biodiversity. The island is also renowned for its clove production and enchanting landscape, characterized by rolling hills and lush spice plantations. Perfect for those seeking tranquility and an authentic experience amidst nature.
- Mafia Island – Location: Off the southeast coast of Tanzania, in the Mafia Channel. Mafia Island is a hidden gem, known for its pristine beauty and as a peaceful oasis away from the crowds. The Mafia Island Marine Park, with its vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life, offers some of the best diving and snorkeling experiences in Africa. The island invites its visitors to immerse themselves in a relaxed atmosphere, exploring the sea, taking nature walks, and discovering the rich local culture.
The safari experience in Tanzania
A safari in Tanzania is an exceptional experience. The country is home to the renowned Serengeti and the Ngorongoro Crater, the world’s largest caldera populated by wild animals. Where else could you live this unique and unrepeatable experience?
We delved into the specifics of organizing a safari in the dedicated post about planning a safari in Tanzania, but here I summarize briefly the important things to know before booking one.
Safari Circuits and National Parks
Tanzania is renowned as one of the most fascinating safari destinations in Africa, thanks to its abundance of national parks and the variety of safari circuits available. The routes are mainly divided into the Northern circuit and Southern circuit.
The Northern circuit, famous for hosting gems like the Serengeti National Park and the Ngorongoro Crater, attracts most visitors for its spectacular wildlife viewing opportunities. Typically, at least 6 days are recommended here, such as in the case of this safari.
On the other hand, the Southern circuit offers the chance to explore lesser-known and less visited parks, ensuring a more intimate and wild safari experience, although access may be more challenging due to less than optimal road conditions.
This latter circuit is particularly suitable for those with limited time: for example, it is possible to organize an unforgettable 3 or 4-day safari in the Selous Game Reserve, making the 4-day itinerary an excellent choice to experience the essence of wild Africa in a short time.
How many days are needed for a great safari in Tanzania?
The duration of a safari varies and is influenced by several factors, including the number of parks you want to explore and the budget available for the experience.
A safari can be short and last between 3 and 4 days, but for those who want to fully immerse themselves in the adventure, it is possible to organize trips that extend to 10 days or more. It is essential to consider the vast distances that characterize a safari, which often involve several hours of travel.
For example, to fully experience a safari in the Serengeti without opting for the expensive flights that directly connect the main access points to the park, a duration of 3 days might prove insufficient; at least 4 or 5 days will be necessary.
This is because the transfer from Arusha to the Serengeti takes about 8 hours by car, including the mandatory passage through the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, which is why many itineraries include a stop at this site and a descent to the crater.
The scheduling of arrival and departure flights is crucial in the planning of a safari in Tanzania. An experienced travel designer will guide you in coordinating your trip, finding the best possible balance between travel time, visits to national parks, and the total duration of the experience.
Costs of a Safari in Tanzania
The costs associated with a safari in Tanzania are influenced by a variety of factors, including the parks you wish to explore (and the related day fees), the number of participants, the type of accommodation chosen, and the season in which you travel.
As a result, there is no fixed price, but rather a range of estimates that vary based on the mentioned variables. To provide a general overview of costs, we can use an example involving two travelers.
It is important to note that if the safari includes a larger group, such as 4 or 6 people, the total cost per participant tends to decrease, making the experience slightly more economical for everyone.
- Camping – Starting from $350 per person per day
- Tented camps and moderate lodge category – Starting from $430 per person per day
- Tented camps and upgraded lodge category – Starting from $550 per person per day
- Tented camps and luxury lodge category – Starting from $700 per person per day
The costs always include national park fees and concession fees, full board accommodation, a 4×4 land cruiser vehicle, fuel, and a guide.
NOTE
In Tanzania, although not officially mandatory, tipping safari guides is a customary practice. It is common to expect a gratuity at the end of the safari, as guides are accustomed to this practice and view it as part of their compensation. A general guideline is to calculate a tip of around $10 per person per day per person on board as an appreciation for the service provided, to be given at the end of the experience.
The trip to Zanzibar
After the exciting adventure of a safari, many choose to conclude their vacation by immersing themselves in the tranquility offered by Zanzibar and its enchanting beaches.
However, Zanzibar is a sizable island characterized by a limited number of roads that are not always in optimal condition, which can make traveling between beaches longer than expected. For this reason, it is essential to dedicate the same attention to planning this part of the journey to ensure a seamless and completely relaxing experience.
The Best Beaches to Stay in Zanzibar
Zanzibar, with its enchanting archipelago, offers a myriad of fascinating beaches to choose from. Selecting the ideal area to stay requires attention: the island is vast, and getting around may take more time than anticipated, in addition to not always being straightforward.
It is crucial to select the Zanzibar area that best aligns with your desires and activities you wish to do. Each region of the main island, Unguja, has distinctive characteristics. To assist you in choosing the most suitable location for you, I have divided Zanzibar into main areas, each with its own peculiarities:
North Coast of Zanzibar
Charming for its beaches less affected by tides, it is highly popular for its vibrant nightlife. This is the most popular and touristy area due to the absence of tides. Despite many facilities, it is advisable to book well in advance as many hotels fill up months ahead.
North-East Coast of Zanzibar
Many luxury hotels and tourist villages are concentrated here, particularly catering to an Italian audience. The tides are less impactful compared to the east coast but are still significant. These beaches are perfect for snorkeling and diving tours around the nearby island of Mnemba, just one and a half kilometers from the shore.
East Coast of Zanzibar
Known for its picturesque beaches, this part of the island offers a rich selection of hotels and lodges. However, tides have a significant impact: at certain times of the day, you may have to walk to reach the ideal spot for swimming or snorkeling. Nonetheless, do not underestimate the speed at which the sea recedes and returns and avoid walking too far from the shore. Hence, a hotel with a pool could be a wise choice.
South-East Coast of Zanzibar
This area boasts numerous lovely beaches and resorts; it is my favorite despite the more pronounced tide phenomenon here.
South Coast of Zanzibar
The southern part of the island, more densely populated than the north, offers more opportunities for interaction with the local community for those seeking a more authentic experience beyond the beach approach.
West Coast of Zanzibar
Although there are fewer hotel structures here and the beaches are less renowned, the area is home to Stone Town, the historic capital of the island, an essential destination rich in culture and history.
How many days to stay in Zanzibar
To fully experience the essence of Zanzibar, the recommended period for a visit ranges from 4 to 7 days. This timeframe allows you not only to immerse yourself in the rich culture and history of the island but also to relax on its beautiful beaches.
If you have the opportunity to extend your stay beyond a week, I highly suggest staying in multiple beaches. An ideal itinerary could include a night in Stone Town to savor its cultural heritage, followed by a few days on the tranquil beaches of the north, interspersed with a stay on the captivating eastern or southern coasts of the island.
This approach provides a comprehensive and varied overview of the wonders that Zanzibar has to offer.
The perfect two-week itinerary in Tanzania and Zanzibar
If you have two weeks to explore Tanzania and are wondering how to best optimize your time, here is a tried and highly appreciated itinerary, particularly suitable for families with children, including the little ones.
This route skillfully combines the enchantment of the major national parks in the north with the idyllic beaches of Zanzibar, offering a perfect balance between adventure in the wild nature and relaxation on paradisiacal sandy shores.
- Arrival at Kilimanjaro Airport – Transfer to Arusha – Night in Arusha
- Game drive in Tarangire National Park – Night inside the National Park
- Game drive in Lake Manyara National Park – Night in Karatu
- Game drive in Ngorongoro Crater – Night in Serengeti
- Game drive in Serengeti National Park
- Game drive in Serengeti National Park
- Transfer to the airport – Flight to Zanzibar – Night in Stone Town
- Visit to Stone Town and spice tour – Transfer to Nungwi Beach (north) – Night in Nungwi or Kendwa
- Tour to Mnemba Island – Night in Nungwi
- Free day in Nungwi
- Free day in Nungwi
- Transfer to Pingwe or Jambiani – Free beach day
- Ocean activities or boat tour from Pingwe (I recommend the dhow tour to sandbanks and snorkeling with starfish) – Evening at Kae Funk or Dinner at The Rock Restaurant
- Transfer to Zanzibar Airport for departure
The Cost of a Trip to Tanzania and Zanzibar
How much does it realistically cost to organize a trip to Tanzania and Zanzibar? You may already have a rough idea of the costs involved, understanding that a trip of this nature can be quite expensive, especially if you plan to travel as a couple and without significant compromises, such as forgoing lodges and tented camps in favor of camping.
It is important to emphasize that the most expensive part of the trip will be the safari. However, once in Zanzibar, you will find more flexibility in the budget, thanks to the availability of various types of accommodation, including some cozy guesthouses for less than €80 per day.
Flights also have a substantial impact on the overall budget: generally, prices for flights from Europa start at around €900 per person, in addition to domestic flights, which range from €80 to €120 per leg.
During the high season, costs can increase to €1500-€2000 per person. My advice for saving money is to book well in advance – at least 8 months – especially if you intend to travel in July and August, or to choose less crowded periods, during which both flights and safaris tend to be more affordable.
So, what is the estimated cost for a 14-day stay like the one described? I estimate that the initial cost could be around $2,800 per person, considering the option of camping during the safari and staying in pleasant but inexpensive guesthouses in Zanzibar, in addition to flight costs starting at approximately €900/1000 per person.
Alternatives to Zanzibar
If you have already been to Zanzibar and do not want to return or simply if you are looking for a slightly less touristy and remote island in Tanzania, there are several options, although they come with some challenges.
Pemba Island
A friend of mine, who has been a resident of Zanzibar for over a decade, described Pemba a few years ago as “Zanzibar before the arrival of tourism”.
This island, located north of Zanzibar, is accessible by air or ferry and still maintains its characteristic pristine atmosphere. With its white sandy beaches and vast stretches, Pemba offers an escape from the crowd, although it has fewer hotel facilities than Zanzibar.
Tourism here is still in its infancy: so do not expect the same level of services or prices as you would find in Zanzibar, but if your desire is to immerse yourself in almost absolute tranquility, then Pemba is undoubtedly the ideal destination.
Mafia Island
For a long time, Mafia Island has been a hidden gem to mainstream tourism, becoming a favored destination especially for divers, attracted by the spectacular annual migration of whale sharks in its waters. Although accommodation has historically been limited, there has recently been a gradual expansion.
Even though prices tend to be higher than those in Zanzibar, Mafia stands out for being an island away from the usual tourist trails, offering a more exclusive and intimate experience.
Its remote location, combined with extraordinary diving and snorkeling opportunities, entails both higher costs and certain logistical challenges.
The island is indeed difficult to reach by land, making direct flights from Dar es Salaam the most practical option, although this can be relatively expensive.
With only one flight available per day, it is strongly recommended to purchase tickets well in advance to secure a seat.
Is it possible to travel independently in Tanzania?
Planning an independent trip in Tanzania can come with its challenges. In fact, organizing a safari, for example, requires advance planning and the support of a local operator, due to the complex entry and driving regulations in the parks.
Unlike some countries where it is possible and relatively easy to do self-driven game drives within national parks (for example, Kruger National Park in South Africa and Etosha National Park in Namibia), the parks in Tanzania are difficult to navigate. There are no official maps, and the vast size of these parks can pose challenges for an inexperienced driver, risking missing out on the most exciting attractions.
Finding accommodation is also not a simple task. Most facilities along safari routes usually do not offer direct bookings to the end customer, reserving such opportunities for tour operators who benefit from special and more advantageous rates.
Similarly, for trekking on Mount Kilimanjaro, autonomous access is not allowed without obtaining the necessary permits and the support of an operator.
On the other hand, a safari offers high flexibility in planning. You can design the itinerary based on your interests and budget. However, once the safari and trekking are completed, the rest of the trip, such as a visit to the coast and islands, can be much easier to organize independently. The more adventurous travelers can even move around using public transportation (provided you have the time available).
