If you’re dreaming of a close African wildlife encounter experience that’s interactive, and easy to reach from Zanzibar, a 2-day Serval Wildlife Safari from Zanzibar is one of the most rewarding short itinerary adventures in Tanzania.
This guide gives you every detail you need — flights, pricing, itinerary, best time to visit, wildlife expectations, packing tips, FAQs, and insider advice for the smoothest possible trip.
Unlike typical safaris that require long drives, Serval Wildlife tour from Zanzibar offers an immersive, walkable, photography-friendly sanctuary experience perfect for families, couples, honeymooners, and first-time safari travellers.
Why Choose a 2-Day Serval Wildlife Safari From Zanzibar?
A 2-day Serval Wildlife from Zanzibar itinerary combines convenience with unforgettable close wildlife encounters. Here’s why this is one of the most popular short safaris for Zanzibar holidaymakers:
✔ Quick & Easy Access From Zanzibar
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75–90 minute flight to Kilimanjaro/Arusha region
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No long game drives
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Smooth transfers straight to Serval Wildlife Lodge
✔ Close-Up Walking Interactions
Unlike traditional safari parks, Serval Wildlife allows guided, ethical, and controlled animal interactions where you can observe:
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Giraffes
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Zebras
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Antelopes
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Monkeys
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A variety of bird species
✔ Perfect for All Traveller Types
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Families with kids
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Couples & honeymooners
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Solo travellers
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Photography lovers
✔ Comfortable Overnight Stay
The Serval Wildlife Lodge offers:
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Modern en-suite rooms
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Beautiful scenery
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Fresh meals
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Quiet environment ideal for relaxation
How to Get to Serval Wildlife From Zanzibar
Travelling from Zanzibar to Serval wildlife sanctuary is straightforward — and this is one of the major reasons the tour is so popular.
Flight from Zanzibar to Serval wildlife Route & Duration
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Route: Zanzibar (ZNZ) → Arusha (ARK)/ Kilimanjaro (JRO)
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Flight Time: ~1 hour to 1 hour 30 minutes
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Airlines: Auric Air, Flightlink, Precision Air, Air Tanzania
Transfer from airport to Serval Wildlife
Depending on the landing airport (ARK or JRO):
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90 minute drive from Arusha city or airport
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30 - 40 minutes, from Kilimanjaro International Airpot
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Private safari vehicle or lodge transfer included in most packages
Typical Serval wildlife tour start Time
Most travellers depart Zanzibar between 7:00–9:00 AM, arriving at Serval Wildlife before lunch — leaving plenty of time for an afternoon walking safari.
Full 2-Day Serval Wildlife Safari Itinerary From Zanzibar
Below is the most complete, practical Serval Wildlife itinerary based on travellers from Zanzibar
Day 1 — Arrival, Check-In & Afternoon Walking Safari
Morning
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Fly from Zanzibar to the Arusha/Kilimanjaro region
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Meet your guide and transfer to Serval Wildlife
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Welcome refreshments at the lodge
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Check into your room
Afternoon
Your first wildlife experience begins with a guided walking tour around the sanctuary. Expect to see:
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Giraffes feeding
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Zebras grazing
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Antelopes wandering freely
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Playful monkeys
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A wide range of birdlife
Photography Tip: Late afternoon is golden hour — perfect for giraffe shots.
Evening
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Dinner at the lodge restaurant
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Relax by the fire pit
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Overnight stay in a peaceful, natural setting
Day 2 — Morning Wildlife Interaction & Return to Zanzibar
Early Morning
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Sunrise walk with a safari guide
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Feeding experiences (ethical & supervised)
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Educational talk about wildlife behavior & conservation
Mid-Morning
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Breakfast at the lodge
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Free time for last photos and nature walks
Afternoon
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Check out
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Transfer to the airport
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Fly back to Zanzibar
Most travellers return between 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM, making this safari a convenient addition to any Zanzibar itinerary.
What Wildlife Can You See at Serval?
Serval Wildlife sanctuary is home to a protected range of species, offering exceptional visibility compared to large parks.
Key Animals
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Giraffes (very friendly & often the highlight)
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Zebras
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Elands & Other Antelopes
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Monkeys
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Lions
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Serval Cats
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Wildebeest
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Tortoise
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Over 100 bird species
This makes it ideal for:
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Families with children
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Travellers afraid of long bumpy drives
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Visitors who want guaranteed wildlife sightings
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Photographers and social contet crreators
Where You Will Stay — One night at Serval Wildlife Villas, or Lodge in Arusha
All lodges are designed to provide comfort, privacy, and a strong connection to nature.
Accommodation Features
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Spacious en-suite rooms
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Cozy bedding
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Hot showers
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WiFi
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Private terraces
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On-site restaurant serving fresh meals
Meals & Dining
Expect:
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Fresh breakfast
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Warm Tanzanian dishes
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International options
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Vegetarian-friendly choices
Accommodation & Itinerary Options
Opt to overnight in Arusha to combine Serval wildlife with a Tarangire or Crater safari. While luxury Villas at Serval, are designed for comfort, privacy, and a strong connection to nature.
This seamless 2-day safari from Zanzibar combines a full game drive in Tarangire National Park or the Ngorongoro Crater with a premium visit to Serval Wildlife Sanctuary and Chemka hotspring or Materuni waterfalls.
2 day Serval wildlife and safari from Zanzibar Day-by-Day Itinerary.
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Day 1: Fly from Zanzibar ➝ Arusha Airport ➝ Transfer to Tarangire or Ngorongoro Crater game drives➝ Overnight at Arusha Farmhouse
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Day 2: Arusha ➝ Serval Wildlife day trip ➝ Materuni Waterfalls or Chemka Hot Spring ➝ JRO ➝ Zanzibar
This 2-day one night Serval Wildlife package from Zanzibar includes return flights, all transfers, a full Serval Wildlife experience, personalised animal interactions, gourmet meals, and an overnight stay at the sanctuary’s luxury villa.
2 day One night Serval wildlife tour from Zanzibar Itinerary highlights.
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Day 1: Fly from Zanzibar ➝ JRO ➝ Serval Wildlife Sanctuary (Overnight at Luxury Villa)
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Day 2: Serval Wildlife ➝ More close up animal encounters. Walk with lion and or opt to add Chemka Hot Springs ➝ JRO ➝ Zanzibar
Best Time to Visit Serval Wildlife for a 2-Day Safari
The sanctuary is a year-round destination, but seasons affect photography, weather, and pricing. Find the best time and season to visit Serval wildlife below
Dry Season (June–October) — Best Overall
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Clear skies
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Ideal for photography
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Comfortable temperatures
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Higher visibility
Green Season (November–May). Lush & Beautiful
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Vibrant green landscapes
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Lower rates
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Great birdwatching
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Occasional rains
Conclusion:
June–October is the best time for most travellers, but green season is ideal for budget travellers and photographers.
Full Price Breakdown for the 2-Day Serval Wildlife Safari From Zanzibar
Two days, one night Serval wildlife from Zanzibar Cost
Depending on season
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$1,115 per person (Including a night at Serval Luxury Villas)
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Flights from Zanzibar and return included.
2 day safari and Serval wildlife from Zanzibar
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Tarangire and Serval wildlife tour from Zanzibar $956 per person.
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Roundtrip flights from Zanzibar and return included.
What’s Typically Included
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Return airport transfers
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Serval Wildlife entrance fees
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Luxury accommodation
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All meals
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Guided walking safaris
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Roundtrip flights
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Guided fees
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Unlimited botled water
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Private vehicle
What’s Not Included
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Travel insurance
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Tips
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Personal items
What to Pack for a 2-Day Serval Wildlife Safari
Clothing
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Light trousers/shorts
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Comfortable walking shoes
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Light jacket
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Neutral colours (khaki, olive, beige)
Essentials
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Sunscreen
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Sunglasses
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Hat
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Refillable water bottle
Photography Gear
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Phone or camera
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Extra SD cards
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Power bank
Expert Tips for the Best Experience
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Arrive in Zanzibar one day before your flight
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Wear neutral colours to avoid disturbing animals
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Keep a safe distance during interactions
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Bring a camera with good zoom
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Book early during dry season
Other Safaris You May Like
2 Day safari from Zanzibar to Tarangire & Ngorongoro crater.
From Zanzibar: Private • Fly-in • Fly-out • Luxury • Lodge
You Visit: Zanzibar, Tarangire, Ngorongoro Crater & Manyara, Zanzibar (End)
3 Day Serval wildlife, Tarangire & Ngorongoro safari from Zanzibar
From Zanzibar: Private • Fly-in • Fly-out • Luxury • Lodge
You Visit: Zanzibar, Tarangire, Ngorongoro Crater & Serval Wildlife Sanctuary
Frequently Asked Questions: 2-Day Zanzibar to Serval Wildlife.
Is a 2-day Serval Wildlife Safari enough time to enjoy the experience?
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Yes. A 2-day Serval Wildlife Safari from Zanzibar is purposely designed for travellers with limited time. The itinerary includes all major highlights — guided walking safaris, wildlife interactions, conservation learning, and a comfortable overnight stay at Serval Wildlife Lodge. It’s ideal for families, couples, solo travellers, and anyone who wants a memorable wildlife experience without long travel hours.
Are flights from Zanzibar included in the safari price?
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Usually not. Most safari packages exclude flights from Zanzibar, allowing travellers to choose their preferred airline and departure time. However, flights are easy to book and typically take 75–90 minutes. Some tour operators can arrange flights upon request for added convenience.
Is the Serval Wildlife Safari safe for children?
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Yes. Serval Wildlife is considered one of the safest wildlife experiences for families with young children. The sanctuary environment offers close-up but controlled animal interactions guided by trained professionals, making it gentle, educational, and child-friendly.
Can I interact with animals at Serval Wildlife?
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Yes — but always in a guided and ethical way. Visitors can enjoy supervised interactions such as giraffe feeding, walking near zebras, and observing antelopes up close. These experiences follow strict animal welfare guidelines to ensure both guest safety and wildlife wellbeing.
What is the best month to visit Serval Wildlife?
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The best months to visit Serval wildlife are June to October, during the dry season when skies are clear and wildlife activity is high — perfect for photography. However, the green season (November–May) offers lush scenery, great birdwatching, and lower rates, making it appealing for nature lovers and budget travellers.
How far is Serval Wildlife Lodge from the airport?
How to get to Serval wildlife sanctuary from Zanzibar? The lodge is located around 40–60 minutes from Arusha Airport or slightly longer from Kilimanjaro International Airport. Transfers are typically included in the safari package or easily arranged.
Is this 2-day safari good for couples or honeymooners?
Absolutely. The peaceful surroundings, intimate wildlife moments, and comfortable lodge stay make this one of the top-rated short safari experiences for couples and honeymooners. It pairs perfectly with a beach holiday in Zanzibar.
How much does a 2-day Serval Wildlife Safari from Zanzibar cost?
Prices vary by season and operator, but most packages range from $1,115 per person (for a 2 day 1 night serval wildlife tour from Zanzibar (including roundtrip flights)). Costs usually include lodge accommodation, meals, sanctuary entry fees, walking safaris, and transfers. For a 2 day safari and serval wildlife tour costs $956 per person.
What animals can I expect to see at Serval Wildlife?
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Serval Wildlife is known for guaranteed sightings, including:
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Giraffes
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Lion
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Zebras
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Antelopes
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Monkeys
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Various bird species
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These sightings are almost certain due to the sanctuary’s layout and conservation design.
How long is the safari transfer once I land?
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Transfers typically take 40–60 minutes, depending on airport choice. This makes Serval Wildlife one of the most accessible safari experiences for travellers flying from Zanzibar.
Do I need any special clothing or gear?
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No special equipment is required. Comfortable walking shoes, light clothing, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a camera are recommended. Neutral colours help you blend into the environment during wildlife walks.
Is this safari suitable for first-time visitors to Tanzania or Africa?
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Yes. Because it’s short, safe, and easy to access from Zanzibar, this is one of the best introductory safaris for travellers new to Tanzania or Africa.
Do you offer customizations for couples, families, or private groups?
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We allow customisations such as private guided walks, romantic setups, family-friendly pacing, or extended stays. Always ask when booking.
Do you offer customizations for couples, families, or private groups?
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We allow customisations such as private guided walks, romantic setups, family-friendly pacing, or extended stays. Always ask when booking.