Safari & Zanzibar: How to Combine Wildlife and a Beach Vacation with Plentiful Adventures.

Imagine experiencing the thrill of an African safari—watching lions roam the plains, witnessing the Great Migration, and spotting elephants against the backdrop of Mount Kilimanjaro—followed by pure relaxation on Zanzibar’s white sandy beaches. A Kenya & Tanzania safari combined with a Zanzibar beach vacation offers the ultimate African adventure: wildlife, culture, and tropical bliss.

In this guide, we’ll show you how to seamlessly combine a safari and Zanzibar vacation, the best itinerary, top destinations, and insider tips to make your trip unforgettable.

Why Combine a Safari with Zanzibar?

Best of Both Worlds: Experience thrilling game drives in Serengeti, Masai Mara, or Ngorongoro Crater, followed by total relaxation on Zanzibar’s stunning beaches.
Perfect for All Travelers: Whether you’re a honeymooner, family, or solo traveler, this combo offers something for everyone.
Easy Travel Connections: Short flights from Arusha, Nairobi, or Dar es Salaam to Zanzibar make the transition seamless.
Diverse Experiences: From Big Five safaris to Swahili culture, snorkeling, and spice tours, this itinerary is packed with adventure and relaxation.

Best Safari Destinations to Combine with Zanzibar

1️⃣ Masai Mara (Kenya) – Great Migration & Big Cats

🔹 Best for: First-time safari-goers, photographers, and wildlife lovers
🔹 Highlights: The Great Migration (July – October), lion prides, endless savannahs
🔹 Best Time to Visit: June – October

2️⃣ Serengeti (Tanzania) – The Classic Safari Experience

🔹 Best for: Luxury safaris, wildlife enthusiasts, bucket-list travelers
🔹 Highlights: Vast plains, predators in action, and millions of wildebeest
🔹 Best Time to Visit: Year-round (Great Migration: June – October)

3️⃣ Ngorongoro Crater (Tanzania) – A Natural Wonder

🔹 Best for: Scenic landscapes & diverse wildlife in one place
🔹 Highlights: Dense wildlife, black rhinos, crater views
🔹 Best Time to Visit: June – October

4️⃣ Amboseli (Kenya) – Elephants & Kilimanjaro Views

🔹 Best for: Close-up elephant encounters & stunning landscapes
🔹 Highlights: Huge elephant herds, Mount Kilimanjaro backdrop
🔹 Best Time to Visit: January – February & June – October

Zanzibar – The Perfect Beach Escape After a Safari

Why Zanzibar?

Pristine Beaches: White sand, turquoise waters, and world-class resorts.
Rich Culture & History: Explore Stone Town, spice farms, and Swahili heritage.
Marine Activities: Snorkeling, diving, and swimming with dolphins.
Luxury & Budget Options: Choose from private beach villas to budget-friendly stays.

Best Places to Stay in Zanzibar

Nungwi & Kendwa – Best for luxury & nightlife
Paje & Jambiani – Best for kite surfing & secluded beaches
Stone Town – Best for history & culture lovers

Recommended Itinerary: Safari & Zanzibar (10-14 Days)

Day 1-3: Masai Mara or Serengeti Safari

Game drives in the Masai Mara or Serengeti
Sunset views & luxury lodge stays
Overnight at a safari camp/lodge

Day 4-6: Ngorongoro Crater & Amboseli (Optional Add-on)

Explore Ngorongoro Crater (black rhinos, dense wildlife)
Amboseli – Elephants with Mount Kilimanjaro views
Overnight at a lodge

Days 7-10: Zanzibar Beach Holiday

Relax in Nungwi, Kendwa, or Paje
Snorkel at Mnemba Atoll & explore Stone Town
Overnight at a beachfront resort

Day 11: Departure from Zanzibar

Fly from Zanzibar to Nairobi/Dar es Salaam for your international flight home

5 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)