Safari From Zanzibar: The Ultimate Guide to Safari from Zanzibar.
This is the most comprehensive guide to Tanzania Safari From Zanzibar.
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Best Safari from Zanzibar destinations.
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Best safari tours from Zanzibar prices & costs.
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Best time to go on a safari from Zanzibar.
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Best time to visit Zanzibar (weather & climates).
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Worst time to visit Zanzibar
What is a Tanzania Safari From Zanzibar?
A safari from Zanzibar means a wildlife safari tour in Tanzania's mainland that begins in Zanzibar island and it involves a flight trip to mainland National parks to watch wildlife and do other Tanzania safari-related activities.
Zanzibar Island is famous for its beautiful beaches historic places, and cultural experiences, but it also serves as a starting point for safaris to some of Tanzania's well-known national parks and game reserves.
If You are in Zanzibar or thinking about going there for a relaxing beach getaway, you can always explore Tanzania's wild side by adding a wildlife safari to your trip. Take a short break from lounging on the sand for a few days and join us on an amazing adventure safari tour starting/ending in Zanzibar. We'll show you the natural beauty and wide variety of animals in one of Tanzania's wildlife parks.
Many visitors fly to Zanzibar to enjoy its beaches then head to mainland Tanzania for a wildlife adventure. Our range of safari tours from Zanzibar are the perfect option if you want to include a Big Five safari and Zanzibar's famous white sand beaches. We'll handle everything - flights, transfers to and from your accommodation, and game drives
Plan Your Tanzania Safari while in Zanzibar!
Plan your excursion to a Safari from Zanzibar with our local experts! This is the top way to ensure you see everything you've hoped for during your Safari in mainland Tanzania.
Our experts are natives of Tanzania, so we will guide you toward the best national parks that align with your Safari interests. We offer a range of Safari packages departing from Zanzibar; our driver will collect you from your hotel in the morning and return you after your Safari in the evening.
Book your Safari from Zanzibar to view the African 'Big Five':
Tanzania is among the premier nations in Africa where you can enjoy remarkable wildlife experiences in its protected national parks, which make up about 38% of the country reserved for wildlife conservation.
If you're dreaming of visiting Tanzania with two passions; Wildlife Safaris and beautiful beaches, we have you covered! We organize daily Safari excursions from Zanzibar to the top national parks in Tanzania, including:
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Mikumi National Park
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Lake Manyara National Park
These parks are recognized as the finest in Tanzania for spotting Africa's Big Five: Lion, Elephant, Leopard, Rhino, and Buffalo.
In addition to these, you can encounter a wide variety of other wildlife such as Crocodiles, Giraffes, Duikers, Hyenas, and more.
All-inclusive Safari Packages from Zanzibar!
Our Safari tours from Zanzibar include everything, including local round-trip flights, hotel accommodations, airport transfers from Zanzibar to the mainland, sightseeing excursions, breakfast, dinner, and more.
Once you secure your Safari from Zanzibar to mainland Tanzania with us, our driver will pick you up from your Zanzibar hotel. The pickup time will depend on the Safari package you select from our above list.
We aim to provide top-notch and hassle-free service for your Safari tour from Zanzibar to all adventure-seeking travelers like you.
This way, you won't have to spend excessive time concerning yourself with flights or accommodation for your safari. Please note that our safari pricing does not include COVID-19 tests required for your return flight, but if you need one before departing from Zanzibar, let us know so we can make arrangements in advance.
The Cons of a Safari from Zanzibar.
Many Zanzibar visitors dream of combining their beach holiday with a thrilling safari in Tanzania. While a safari from Zanzibar offers an incredible opportunity, it's wise to consider the potential drawbacks before you book.
This guideline highlights the cons of a safari from Zanzibar, offering a balanced perspective to help you make informed decisions.
High Costs, Especially for Fly-In Safaris
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Expensive Flights: If you choose a fly-in safari (direct from Zanzibar to your lodge), costs can get crazy. While it’s nice to not have to drive, private flights to lodges or airstrips can be expensive, especially for remote parks like Serengeti or Selous.
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Hidden Fees: Beyond the flight costs you may have to pay for airport transfers (however, our safaris are all-inclusive), conservation fees or premium rooms, which can add up fast. For budget travellers, this might make a Zanzibar safari more expensive than you thought.
Weather and Seasonal Challenges
Rainy Season: The rainy season in Tanzania (March to May) can impact your safari plans. Some roads in the parks may be closed and game viewing may not be as good as animals move to other areas or hide from the rain.
The rainy season can also make flights or transfers fro a safari from Zanzibar more prone to delays or cancellations.
Travel Delays and Logistical Challenges
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Flight Delays: Zanzibar is a small island with limited flights to mainland Tanzania, so you may experience delays or even cancellations especially during peak season. Delays getting to the parks can eat into the time you have for game drives and reduce the value of your safari.
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Complicated Transfers: Depending on the park you visit, you may need to take multiple flights, land transfers or boats, all of which can add to your overall travel time. In some cases this can make the whole safari feel like a headache rather than a relaxing break.
Some Parks Out of Reach
Far from Major Parks: Zanzibar has great access to parks like Selous and Mikumi, but some of Tanzania’s most famous safari destinations like Ngorongoro Crater and Tarangire National Park are harder to reach from the island. You would need to fly to Arusha airport and take long road transfers to get there which can be time-consuming.
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Not Ideal for Comprehensive Safaris: If you want to visit multiple parks or do the full Big Five safari circuit of Tanzania, Zanzibar is not the best base. Many of Tanzania’s top safari destinations are via mainland hubs like Arusha or Dar es Salaam.
From Zanzibar: Best Tanzania Safari Packages and Tours
From Zanzibar: 2 Day Safari
Starting From
$1,115
6-Day Tanzania Safari
From Zanzibar: Best 2 Day Safari in Tanzania
Starting From
$1,115
From Zanzibar: Top 3 Day Safari tour
Starting From
$1,115
From Zanzibar: perfect 3 Day Safari tours
Starting From
$1,115
From Zanzibar: 4 Day Tanzania Safari
Starting From
$1,115
From Zanzibar: 4 Day Safari in Tanzania
Starting From
$1,115
Safari From Zanzibar To Serengeti National Park
Serengeti National Park safari from Zanzibar is one of the best Tanzania safari route that most travellers do opt for, especially travellers who wish to combine their Tanzania safari tour with the Zanzibar islands.
The Serengeti Park is the most visited tourist safari destination in Tanzania. Thousands of travellers visits for various reasons and activities and enjoyment in the park.
The Serengeti National Park is one of the best places on earth to see the African Big Five and the great wildebeest migration. A Serengeti safari from Zanzibar is a perfect option to experience the Great Wildebeest Migration, starting and ending in Zanzibar
Our best short From Zanzibar to Serengeti Safaris are:
The Best Time for a Safari from Zanzibar
When planning to go on a safari from Zanzibar timing is everything to get the best wildlife views and weather. The best time to visit Tanzania’s safari national parks is during the dry season which is from June to late October.
During these dry months wildlife tends to congregate around water sources making it easier to spot animals especially in popular safari parks like Serengeti, Tarangire and Ngorongoro Crater.
Weather & Climate
The dry season also means clear skies and comfortable temperatures perfect for long game drives and exploring the parks as well as stargazing during the night.
The shoulder season in Tanzania starting from December to March, is also a good time for a Zanzibar safari as the weather is still good and the parks are less crowded.
This is the perfect time for the calving season in the Serengeti where many young wildebeest and zebras are born.
Dry Season vs Wet Season
Nov – May
June – July is considered the best time to view the migration
Animals gather around water holes & rivers
Less vegetation means more visibility
Fewer mosquitos and mostly sunny days
The busiest period of the year
Nights & Mornings are cold
June – October
Late Jan – Feb is calving season and predators are frequent
Beautiful green vegetation
Lower rates and less crowded
Migratory birds present
Rain showers are short between Nov – Apr
March – May is peak of the wet season
Most big game migrate out of the Tarangire NP.
Best Time To Visit Zanzibar
The best time to visit Zanzibar for safaris and tours is during the dry season, from June to October, when the sun-drenched white sandy beaches, gentle tropical breezes, crystal-clear waters, and swaying palm trees reveal the island's many enchanting and romantic wonders.
June to October is the best time to visit Zanzibar as it aligns with Tanzania's peak safari season, making the Zanzibar Archipelago a highly sought-after destination after a safari experience. Nevertheless, this tropical island is appealing to visit throughout the year due to its consistent sunshine and pleasant Zanzibar climate.
When To Visit Zanzibar As Part Of A Migration Safari
The best time in Zanzibar is between June and October, which aligns beautifully with the remarkable wildebeest migration in Tanzania's Serengeti and Kenya's Masai Mara.
The Cheapest Time To Visit Zanzibar
The best time to visit Zanzibar on a budget is during the low season from March to May.
The heat and humidity ease, resulting in more pleasant weather, and Zanzibar becomes peaceful, calm, and largely free of visitors.
April and May are when resorts in Zanzibar present their most affordable rates, as the island’s weather is at its least favorable. During this period, some resorts might shut down due to the rainfall.
When To Visit Zanzibar To See Dolphins
The best times to visit Zanzibar and swim with dolphins are from June to September, as well as in January and February.
Worst time To Visit Zanzibar
To fully enjoy your time in Zanzibar, it's best to avoid the rainy season, the deceptive off-season, and possibly the period of Ramadan.
Target the ideal months from June to October, and you’ll find yourself immersed in a tropical paradise that will create memories as vivid as the sunsets in Zanzibar.
Travel tips for Zanzibar Town and Tanzania Safaris
How to get to Zanzibar
A fantastic way to reach the archipelago is to first travel to Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. From there, you can take a ferry for $40–50, which takes anywhere from one and a half to three hours, depending on the ferry you choose. This is a straightforward, convenient, and commonly used route for travelers and an excellent option if you're including Zanzibar at the end of your extended trip in Tanzania. Alternatively, you can opt for a brief domestic flight between Tanzania's mainland and the islands.
Getting around Zanzibar
After checking into your hotel in Zanzibar, you might find that your stunning beach resort provides everything you require for a perfect holiday – a lovely beach, crystal-clear water, swimming pools, and delectable cuisine. The hotel may also arrange excursions and day trips for you. However, if you wish to explore other areas of the island, using a taxi or a private-hire driver is often the most effective method. These options are convenient, direct, and reasonably priced, and the hotel staff can assist you in making a booking. Alternatively, you might choose the more economical and adventurous choice of taking a local minibus or Dala-Dala. While these can be packed, and you might not always know exactly when you’ll reach your stop, it offers a distinctive and authentic experience. If you have a valid international driving licence, you can rent a car or even a scooter to discover the island at your leisure. The roads are generally not too congested or daunting, unlike some busier cities, which makes this a popular option for many tourists. Of course, to reach any of the smaller islands surrounding Zanzibar’s main land, you'll need to schedule a boat tour through a tour company or by contacting your hotel.
Your Safari From Zanzibar Questions Answered
Can I Book a Safari While Staying in Zanzibar?
Definitely! Zanzibar serves as an excellent launch point for a safari in Tanzania.
Daily domestic flights are available that connect Zanzibar with key mainland locations such as Arusha, Kilimanjaro, and the Serengeti, making it easy and hassle-free to arrange a safari.
We provide a range of safari packages specifically tailored for travelers beginning their journey in Zanzibar.
These options include a short 2-day safari from Zanzibar to Tanzania, as well as fly-in safaris from Zanzibar to the Serengeti.
What Are the Best Safari Packages for Travelers from Zanzibar?
Tanzania safari departing from Zanzibar
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2-Day Short Safari in Tanzania from Zanzibar: Perfect for travelers with limited time, featuring visits to Tarangire National Park and Ngorongoro Crater.
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2-Day Fly-In Safari to the Serengeti from Zanzibar: A brief but enriching Serengeti experience filled with exciting wildlife encounters.
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4-Day Budget-Friendly Tanzania Safari from Zanzibar: Discover Serengeti, Ngorongoro, and Tarangire for a more extensive adventure.
What Is the Cost of a Safari from Zanzibar?
The price and cost are determined by the kind of safari you select:
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Budget Safaris: Beginning at $150–$200 per person per day, these often include camping accommodations.
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Mid-Range Safaris: Priced between $300–and $500 per person per day, these offer comfortable lodges and tented camps.
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Luxury Safaris: Starting at $600+ per person per day, these provide upscale lodges, private game drives, and premium services.
Generally, your safari from Zanzibar costs covers accommodations, meals, park fees, game drives, flights, and transfers.
What vaccinations are required and do I need malaria pills for the Zanzibar safari?
Tanzania does not require any vaccinations for entry. However, travelers arriving from countries with current Yellow Fever transmission, or those who have spent more than 12 hours in an airport within such a country, must show proof of vaccination against Yellow Fever.
Regarding COVID-19, there are no requirements for vaccination or testing upon arrival. Given that malaria is common in Tanzania, it is strongly advised to take malaria prevention tablets.
Can you do a safari from Zanzibar?
Yes, you can embark on a safari from Zanzibar to the mainland of Tanzania is renowned for its national parks such as Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, and Tarangire, all of which can be reached with a brief domestic flight from Zanzibar.
A safari departing from Zanzibar allows you to enjoy the ideal combination of the stunning beaches and azure waters of the Indian Ocean along with thrilling wildlife experiences in celebrated safari locations.
Regardless of whether you’re seeking a short 2-day escape or a longer luxury safari, we have the perfect options for you.
Our packages encompass transportation, lodging, park entrance fees, and guided game drives.
How to get a safari from Zanzibar?
Arranging a safari from Zanzibar is straightforward. Secure a package with us and we take care of flights, lodging, park fees, and guided game drives.
Flights from Zanzibar to popular safari spots like Arusha or Serengeti can be organized with ease.
Our team excels at effortless planning, making sure you have a smooth experience traveling from Zanzibar to Tanzania’s premier national parks. Check out our safari booking page for more information.
Is a Serengeti safari possible from Zanzibar?
Absolutely, you can embark on a Serengeti safari starting from Zanzibar. It is relatively simple to organize a safari to the Serengeti from Zanzibar island, which is situated off the coast of Tanzania, either by flying directly or by combining a flight with a road transfer.
Cheapest Safari from Zanzibar
For budget-conscious travelers, the most affordable safari from Zanzibar involves selecting a group safari or opting for camping alternatives.
These options help minimize expenses while still offering remarkable wildlife experiences.
Our 3-day budget safari from Zanzibar presents a cost-effective way to discover Tarangire, Serengeti, and Ngorongoro Crater, with all necessary items provided.
For those seeking a shorter tour, the 2-day budget safari to Tarangire and Ngorongoro delivers excellent value.
Group safaris serve as another affordable option, enabling travelers to split costs with others.
More affordable budget safari options often include Tarangire and Lake Manyara because of their proximity to Arusha, which helps lower travel costs.
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Can I Book a Safari While Staying in Zanzibar?
Definitely! Zanzibar serves as an ideal starting point for your safari tours in Tanzania.
Thanks to daily domestic flights that link Zanzibar to notable mainland locations such as Arusha, Kilimanjaro, and the renowned Serengeti.
Starting and ending your safari in Zanzibar is more easier and convenient than ever.
Can I book a safari tour in Tanzania from Zanzibar and pay later?
Absolutely, you can! We recognize that having options is crucial when arranging your Tanzania safari from Zanzibar, which is why we provide the ability to reserve your safari now and make payments later.
This allows you to guarantee your place in your desired safari package without the pressure of upfront costs.
What parks are best for a safari from Zanzibar?
Many parks on the Tanzanian mainland can be reached with a brief flight from Zanzibar, although occasionally you might have to switch planes in Arusha or Dar es Salaam.
If I had to choose only one region of Tanzania for my safari starting from Zanzibar, it would be the northern area.
This is home to Serengeti National Park and the Ngorongoro Crater, which are without a doubt my top recommendations.
How many days is recommended for a trip from Zanzibar?
The duration of your safari from Zanzibar will largely depend on your chosen destination. If you have only 3 to 4 days to spare, it would be advisable to concentrate on a single park, such as Nyerere or the Serengeti.
For each additional couple of days you have, you could consider adding another park or two—like Ngorongoro and possibly Lake Manyara in the north, or Mikumi in the south.
If you can dedicate 10 days away from Zanzibar, it might be feasible to complete the Northern safari route or visit three or four parks in southern Tanzania.
Ngorongoro Crater Safari from Zanzibar
Traveling from Zanzibar, you can take a flight to Arusha and subsequently drive to Ngorongoro, where you’ll experience unmatched wildlife diversity within the volcanic caldera.
Our 2-day Ngorongoro safari is ideal for those seeking a brief yet fulfilling adventure.
For a more extensive exploration, the 5-day luxury safari encompasses Ngorongoro along with the Serengeti and Tarangire.
Camping lovers may choose the 4-day camping safari, which offers an intimate experience with the crater’s distinctive ecosystem.
Our Ngorongoro Crater safaris feature game drives, guided excursions, and a variety of accommodation options. Don’t forget to explore our Ngorongoro Crater safari packages for additional information.
How far is the safari from Zanzibar?
The distance from Zanzibar to the national parks on Tanzania’s mainland varies based on your specific destination.
A flight from Zanzibar to Arusha, which serves as a gateway to several northern parks, takes roughly 1 hour.
There are also direct flights available to the Serengeti that last about 2 hours.
Traveling by land from Zanzibar is not advisable, as it requires taking a ferry to Dar es Salaam followed by extensive road trips.
Flying is the most convenient and time-saving option to begin your safari journey. Check out our safari packages that include flights for a more streamlined experience.