If you’re searching for the best itineraries to travel in Tanzania, you have come to the right place!
Planning for your Tanzania itinerary should be fun and exciting, not stressful, which is why I put together this detailed post to show you how to spend your time in Tanzania and get the most out of your stay in this beautiful land.
I have traveled to Tanzania and to be honest, there is no popular destination in Tanzania that I am yet to set feet in.
As if that isn’t enough, I have visited these Tanzania best destinations at least twice to get the true flavor of this country which was voted the best safari country of Africa in 2013.
It may seam bragging but I promise you it isn’t. I know the best places in Tanzania and things to do and today I am giving away 3 best itineraries to travel in Tanzania.
And trust me, these itineraries are not what you think, they are not what you have seen in the past, they are carefully designed to cater for a wide range of interests while focusing on must go places and things to do and see in Tanzania.
Furthermore, I have put together these 3 best itineraries to travel in Tanzania in a way that they include some of Tanzania’s most famous things to do as well as some lesser-known suggestions that may not be recommended by others.
My goal is for you to see the best of what Tanzania has to offer on your trip.
For these 3 best itineraries to travel in Tanzania, I will provide you with a breakdown of the stops I recommend and the best sites to see.
Since everyone is different I won’t tell you that it is a must you follow these itineraries but rather, use them as your pilot to have a stunning safari package for your Tanzania safari.
But in case you fall in love with all of them (who knows) feel free to use either of them in your next travel to Tanzania and hats off, go and enjoy the safari of a lifetime experience.
So instead of planning out every moment of every day of your trip to Tanzania, I provide you with structured yet loose itineraries to follow for your Tanzania travel.
Before you go, make sure you aren’t forgetting any of these 10 best things to do in Arusha which is the tourism hub of Tanzania. I want to make sure that I have you equipped enough so you enjoy the most of your Tanzania safari.
Getting to Tanzania.
Before we see these 3 best itineraries to travel to in Tanzania, let me give you a quick highlight on how you can reach this wonderful destination of Africa.
Tanzania can be reached both by flight and bus depending on where you are coming from.
If traveling from somewhere oversees, a flight to Dar-es-salaam then an approximately 10hr drive to Arusha should on the way give you some early test of Tanzania.
Alternatively, a flight to Kilimanjaro International airport which is just a few minutes’ drives to Arusha, the tourism hub of Tanzania will save you some time to go and explore the best things to do in Arusha that I reminded to visit just a few paras above.
Before I forget, there are visitors who prefer to fly to Nairobi, Kenya which is neighboring to Tanzania, Arusha specifically and there fly or use a bus to Arusha to immediately start their Tanzania safari. Here again, the choice is yours.
Weather in Tanzania
To describe the weather in Tanzania, I will use two regions. Dar es Salaam and Arusha.
Dar es Salaam is the most populous city in the country as well as the important economic center in East Africa.
Dar es Salaam will give you an idea of the warmer regions of Tanzania while Arusha, famously known as Geneva of Africa due to its weather like, will give you a taste in colder regions of the country.
Let’s start with Dar es Salaam weather, shall we?
Weather in Dar es Salaam
If you’re tired of cold uninspiring weather, Dar es Salaam may well give you an escape
Dar es Salaam is one of the hottest cities in Tanzania. Do not bring jackets and pullovers in Dar es Salaam, they are worthless there.
With hot and humid weather almost the full year, the simple lightweight outfit will do when embarking best things to do in Dar es Salaam
In Dar es Salaam it rains as well
In a normal year, Dar es Salaam has two rainy seasons usually in April and May as well as in November and December.
Rainy season in Dar es Salaam won’t mean excessive cold though, the city will still be warm though not as much.
Weather in Arusha
Now, this is what makes most visitors fall in love with the city. The cool dry air prevails almost the full year.
It is one of those few regions on the planet where the cold is moderate while the hot weather doesn’t prevail very aggressively.
With temperature usually ranging between 5 and 30 degrees, on most occasions 25 degrees annual temperature is recorded, Arusha has the most rewarding weather in Tanzania.
Now as you know a thing or two about Tanzania, I believe you’d second me if I’d politely ask you to put on your Tanzania safari apron and be sure to follow these 3 best itineraries to travel in Tanzania to the end.
5 days best Itinerary to Travel in Tanzania
Duration: 5 Day
Destinations: Lake Manyara, Ngorongoro Crater, Serengeti & Tarangire
Price: Somewhere from $1,880 per person (based on 2 people)
Accommodation Type: Mid-Range Lodges and Tented Camps
If you’re looking for the best wildlife adventure safari then nothing surpasses this itinerary.
What makes it even the best in its price. For someone who knows Tanzania safari costs, this is among the best prices you may find yet with a package that has mid-range lodges and camps in it and not the budget accommodations.
Make sure you travel with me as I am going to break down the day after another.
I want you to have a sneak preview of what you’re going to see and do in Tanzania so that your planning for a Tanzania safari should no longer be stressful.
Day 1: Lake Manyara/Nature walk
Before starting this first day, breakfast will make you fresh and motivated for the day ahead.
This first day is that which gives you the true feeling of Tanzania and on the very first day, you’ll immediately start to get a feeling that, yes….this is the best itinerary to travel in Tanzania.
After breakfast, drive to Lake Manyara national park for a game drive with picnic lunch.
In this small but very beautiful park with the dense forest, you will have the opportunity to see lots of monkeys, giraffes, elephants, impalas, dik-dik, flamingos in the lake, and if you are lucky you may spot the rare tree-climbing lions.
Also apart from being lucky, you’ll need a guide with eagle eyes.
Not once or twice that I was luckier to be with a guide who could spot animals in a camouflage that the rest of drivers couldn’t spot.
In the late afternoon, I suggest you continue and end the day with a good dinner. In this area, I would insist that you use Eileen’s trees inn for dinner and overnight.
Day 2: Ngorongoro Crater
Until finishing this second day, there’d be no doubt left on your head that this is the best itinerary to travel in Tanzania when it comes to wildlife adventure.
As I always say, breakfast can make or break your day, I strongly suggest you ensure you have a nice breakfast before safari hit the ground running on the second day.
After early breakfast, prepare yourself to depart with your picnic lunch and drive off to Ngorongoro crater for the unique, unmatched game drive.
In the Ngorongoro crater expect to witness animals like; pride of lions, clans of hyenas, packs of jackals, a crash of hippos, dazzles of zebras, herds wildebeests.
Others are bulls of elephants often with incredibly long tusks because of the highly nutritious grass rich in minerals, and depending on the day, you may well see more animals.
Ngorongoro is also the best place to spot the rare black rhino.
In the late afternoon, I suggest you continue to Serengeti Osinon camp, a small luxury camp owned by Earthlife Expeditions located in the heart of Serengeti national park.
In the Osinon, you will have a hot shower to keep you fresh again after the African massage (the bumpy and dusty drive)
Evenings are never boring at Osinon, after all, why not meet your guide at the fireplace for a cold beer and story swapping?
In a clear night, you will have the opportunity to learn about the African night sky as you wait for your dinner, this is one of the best experiences I will always cherish.
I don’t remember looking a beautiful sunset amazingly than the evening at Osinon.
At Osinon, hyenas and lions are often heard roaring as you seat from the fireplace that gives you unique experience of African nights in the wild.
After dinner, you will be escorted by Maasai warriors to your rooms for overnight.
Day 3: Serengeti National Park
The best was yet to come!
If someone would ask me to mention only one place to visit in Tanzania, I won’t think twice, I would simply say ‘go Serengeti!
To get the most out of the Serengeti, I pray that you wake up early in the morning for a cup of coffee/tea and snacks then collect your picnic breakfast and depart for a game drive.
Animals are normally seen right from the camp and in the early morning, you still have chances to see them active.
Serengeti is the park with the largest concentration of big mammals in the world and it is where you will see most of your exciting wildlife.
The sightings in the central Serengeti will include pride of lions, cheetahs, leopards, elephants, giraffes, hippos, impalas, dik-dik, monkeys, baboons, gazelles, warthogs, and many more.
In the noon or afternoon, you will have to return to Osinon camp for hot lunch and a short siesta before departing for another game drive in the afternoon.
Assuming you have some questions and you’re never ready to bring them back home with you, use the evening time to ask them to your guide.
Today again you will seat with your guide at the fireplace and get some information about Tanzania from the pre-colonial time to independence until now. Later on, get your dinner and overnight at the Serengeti Osinon camp.
Day 4: Serengeti National Park/Tarangire
As I am on the fourth day on this first among 3 itineraries to travel in Tanzania, I would like to remind you that Serengeti national park was voted the best safari park in Africa.
After breakfast at Osinon camp, you’ll be well served by doing a morning game drive in the Serengeti national park.
In the late afternoon, why not continue to Eileen’s trees in at Karatu for dinner?
After dinner, you may wish to go out with your guide for a drink or two in a local bar and have fun with the local people.
In this fourth day, I highly recommend you spend a night at Eileen’s trees inn.
Day 5: Tarangire National Park/Departure
I like early breakfasts during safaris.
That way, you get enough time to enjoy your safari
In this last day of first among 3 itineraries to travel Tanzania, get early breakfast so that you will drive to Tarangire national park for a wonderful game drive.
This park has the largest concentration of elephants, often seen bathing in the Tarangire river, lots of giraffes, monkeys, impalas and many birds.
Tarangire is also one of the best places to see lions and leopards.
In the late afternoon, your safari would be approaching its end so it’s better you prepare yourself to return back to Arusha for your departure/continue with other arrangements you may have
14 days Best Itinerary to Travel in Tanzania
Duration: 14 Days
Destinations: Arusha, Lake Manyara, Serengeti, Ngorongoro and Zanzibar
Price: $3490 per person
Accommodation Type: Mid-Range Lodges & Tented Camps
Let’s face it, it’s clear that anyone knowledgeable on planning Tanzania safari would agree this is simply one of the best when it comes to the best itineraries to travel in Tanzania.
If you’re looking for an amazing safari experience that combines superb wildlife viewing with tropical beach life, this itinerary has it all.
This itinerary gives you the chance to visit the best wildlife parks in northern Tanzania like the famous Serengeti and the Ngorongoro Crater, where you can spot all of Africa’s big game including the Big Five.
It doesn’t end just there!
After a perfect safari to the Serengeti and other parks, travel to the tropical island of Zanzibar, where you discover the fascinating cultural history of Stone Town.
There is no a better experience than relaxing on the white sandy beaches of Zanzibar, surrounded by the warm turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean while reading your ‘How to Fail at Almost Everything and Still Win Big’ book.
Now let’s dive deep to uncover this itinerary, shall we?
Day 1: Arrival
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro airport, you will be met by the driver and transferred to a lodge in Arusha.
I suggest Ambureni coffee lodge in this case where you’ll have your dinner and overnight.
At this point, I would encourage you to settle into your accommodation, relax as the coming day you’d start your safari proper in the morning.
Day 2: Arusha National Park
Take your breakfast as early as possible in the morning and make sure you take with you a picnic lunch.
After breakfast head to Arusha National Park for morning game drive.
Arusha national park is one of the smaller national parks in Tanzania, but to my surprise, it has a rich variety of wildlife and landscapes that are just amazing compared to the area.
From the swampy Ngurdoto Crater and alkaline lakes to dense jungle and the towering peaks of Mount Meru and Kilimanjaro, Arusha national park gives you it all.
In the afternoon you go on a 2-hours forest hike on the base of Mount Meru to the Tululusia waterfall.
Apart from the amazing view of this mountain from the park, it is also the best place to view the highest mountain in Africa, Mount Kilimanjaro.
The view is astonishing at the Mount Meru so be careful unless otherwise, you may stay there for long hours.
In the late afternoon, you may return to the Ambureni coffee lodge for dinner and overnight.
Day 2: Lake Manyara National Park
The second day of our 14 days of wildlife adventure and Zanzibar, which is without a doubt among the best itineraries to travel in Tanzania.
In the morning you drive to Lake Manyara National Park for a nature walk at the edge of the huge soda lake. It feels so amazing to do a nature walk. Its mind satisfying.
After this walk, you hop in the safari vehicle to continue for a game drive in Lake Manyara National Park.
Manyara is known for its huge soda lake filled with pink-hued flamingos, a large population of baboons, incredible birdlife, and breathtaking views.
You can see giraffes, elephants, hippos, buffaloes, zebras, flamingos, and if you are lucky you spot a tree-climbing lion.
In the late afternoon, you will continue to Eileen’s trees inn for dinner and overnight.
Day 3: Lake Manyara
I advise you spend another day at Manyara as there’re loads to experience that’ll leave you awe-inspired
Day 4: Serengeti
As always, take your breakfast as early as possible so that the day’s program gets up as soon as possible.
After breakfast head to Serengeti national park for a game drive with picnic lunch.
Serengeti is the park with the largest concentration of big mammals in the world.
Here you will see the most wildlife and this will probably be the highlight of your entire safari.
Animals in the Serengeti include pride of lions, leopards, cheetahs, elephants, impalas, giraffes, hippos, warthogs, lots of birds, and many more.
In the late afternoon, you will continue to Serengeti bush camp for dinner and overnight.
Day 5: Serengeti
In this best itinerary to travel in Tanzania, today you go on a morning and afternoon game drive in the famous Serengeti National Park.
If you want to spot the Big Five – lion, elephant, leopard, rhino, and buffalo- all in one park, the Serengeti is one of the best places to do so.
The abundance of wildlife in this park is unmatched anywhere else in Africa.
Depending on which time of the year you visit this park, you can also witness the Great Migration.
It’s an impressive experience to see all those hoofed mammals, followed by iconic predators, migrate in a clockwise circle every year.
In the late afternoon, you will continue to Serengeti bush camp for dinner and overnight.
Day 6: Ngorongoro
After breakfast, you depart for a morning game drive in the Serengeti with picnic lunch.
In the afternoon why not pay a visit to a traditional Maasai village to get an insight into the lifestyle of these graceful warriors?
After this exciting cultural experience, head to Eileen’s Trees Inn for dinner and overnight.
Day 7: Ngorongoro Crater
Another beautiful day in this best itinerary to travel to Tanzania.
In this 6th day, you set off towards the Ngorongoro Crater for a beautiful game drive.
Ngorongoro itself, shelters close to 30.000 animals including the Big Five.
The crater teems with zebras, buffaloes, lions, wildebeest, warthogs, baboons, elephants, flamingos, ostriches, hippos, cheetahs, and a small population of the rare black rhino.
The beautiful colors and dancing clouds make the crater almost surreal. Because of its natural beauty, the Ngorongoro Crater is chosen as one of Africa’s Seven Natural Wonders.
In the late afternoon return to Eileen Trees Inn for dinner and overnight.
Day 8: Arusha – Zanzibar
In the morning you drive back to Arusha. From Ngorongoro, right?
After lunch, you continue to Arusha Airport for a flight to Zanzibar.
Upon arrival on the tropical island, I recommend you stay at the historical Zanzibar Coffee house at Stone town for dinner and overnight.
Day 9: Zanzibar Stone town
Spend a full day exploring the historical Stone Town.
It is a fascinating labyrinth of narrow streets and alleyways that are a joy to explore.
While there, discover the architectural gems, tasteful restaurants, churches, markets, and gardens.
There are plenty of interesting places to visit on a cultural tour, like the House of Wonders, Darajani market place, Sultan’s Palace, and the Slave Market.
The mix of Arab, Persian, Indian, and European influences makes Stone Town absolutely unique. In the late afternoon, you return to the Zanzibar Coffee house for dinner and overnight.
Day 10: Zanzibar Stone Town
Until here, I strongly believe you have noticed my ability to pick the best itineraries to travel to Tanzania! But wait, you haven’t seen it all yet!
Today go on a spice tour.
Walk with a tour guide through the villages and spice plantations where pepper, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, nutmeg, etc grows.
Your tour guide will explain how the plants grow and what we use it for.
You may continue your tour to Jozani Forest, the last indigenous forest on Zanzibar with impressive mangroves. Here you can view different kinds of monkeys, like the rare red colobus monkeys, trees, and plants.
In the late afternoon, you return to the Zanzibar Coffee house for dinner and overnight.
Day 11, 12 and 13: Zanzibar Nungwi
I call these 3 days the fullest of Zanzibar
In the next 3 days, you can relax at the beautiful Nungwi Beach. This is one of the best beaches on the island.
It has a relaxed atmosphere with beautiful white sandy beaches and turquoise water that gently rolls onto the beach.
You can spend the entire day at the beach since the beaches in this Northern part of the island are not as tidal.
If you like to be more active, there are plenty of options, from village walks and sailing to scuba diving and snorkeling.
You can book the activities at the Warere Beach Hotel where you stay.
As I promised you from the beginning, these 3 best itineraries to travel in Tanzania give you room to add more activities that suites you.
Day 14: Departure
Kind of a sad day
After breakfast, your private driver transfers you to Zanzibar Airport for your departure flight.
10 Days Great Migration Tanzania Safari
Duration: 10 Days
Destinations: Arusha, Lake Manyara, Serengeti , Ngorongoro and Tarangire.
Price: $3718 per person
Accommodation Type: Mid-Range Lodges & Tented Camps
Highlight
Talk about the best itineraries to travel to Tanzania!
This itinerary takes you to the north of Serengeti for a chance to witness the Great Migration.
While the sight of hundreds of thousands of wildebeest and zebras thunder across the plains is spectacular, the Mara River crossing is absolutely one of the most breathtaking natural wonders in Africa.
Dust exploding, lions stalking a moveable feast, gigantic crocodiles, and fast-flowing wild rivers await. It is sensational, impressive, and dramatic at the same time.
Let me break it down to you how it works, shall I?
Day 1: Arrival – Arusha
Arrive at Kilimanjaro Airport and at this first day, I suggest dinner and overnight at Ambureni coffee lodge just a few meters outside Arusha center.
As I always advise, settle into your accommodation, ready to start your safari proper in the morning. If time permits, look to get an arrangement of a complimentary town tour.
Day 2: Lake Manyara National Park
After breakfast, be ready to you drive to Lake Manyara National Park for lifetime experience of a nature walk at the edge of the lake.
What I like most about this nature walk is that it is a great opportunity for you to learn about different plants with their medicinal uses, animal tracks, insects, flowers and to see flamingos in Lake Manyara and other animals.
That awakens your senses, as you become part of the wilderness.
After a few hours, you hop into the safari vehicle and continue with a game drive.
In this small, but beautiful park with the dense forest you can spot lots of monkeys, giraffes, elephants, impalas, hippos, flamingos, and if you are lucky you may spot the rare tree-climbing lions.
In the late afternoon, you drive to Eileen’s Trees Inn for dinner and overnight
Day 3: Serengeti (Central)
The early the morning, the better.
Start this 3rd day by departing in the morning for a game drive in the central part of the Serengeti.
This part is famous for the abundance of lions and leopards that can usually be seen quite easily.
Game viewing in this central area is spectacular all year round.
Allow yourself to enjoy the views of endless plains and stunning wildlife like cheetahs, elephants, giraffes, hippos, ostrich, aardvark, pangolin, and many more.
Dinner and overnight will be at Serengeti Heritage Camp.
Day 4: Serengeti (North)
Things don’t get better than here
After breakfast, you drive to the northern part of the Serengeti for a game drive along the Mara River.
Depending on rainfall, the spectacular crossings of the Mara River can begin as early as June or as late as August.
The wildebeest and zebras must survive the Nile crocodiles and fast-flowing water before facing the lions waiting on the other side.
This time of the year game viewing is sensational, impressive, and dramatic. If I say I have ever encountered the natural phenomena as amazing as the one where it’s clear I’d be lying.
Day 5: Serengeti (North)
Rise up early!
Well, I shouldn’t even remind you that. In fact, what you should have already witnessed on day 4, you’ll simply think the night is too long for you to have another day at North Serengeti.
But honestly, make sure you rise up early for a morning game drive along the Mara River.
It is truly an amazing experience to see all those hoofed mammals in search of water and greener pastures, followed by iconic predators.
A journey is full of danger where only the strongest survive.
You may also see hippos, lions, cheetahs, leopards, elephants, giraffes, warthogs, and if you are lucky the endangered black rhino.
After the afternoon game drive, you head back to Serengeti Heritage Mara River Camp for dinner and overnight.
Day 6: Serengeti (North)
No one has ever felt bored at North Serengeti
Spending 3 days here shows you the way this is the best itinerary to travel in Tanzania when your focus is to explore greater migration.
Day 6 is just another day of morning and afternoon game drives in the North Serengeti along the Mara River.
Dust exploding, lions stalking a moveable feast, gigantic crocodiles, and fast-flowing wild rivers await the herds as they head north.
The river crossing of thousands of wildebeest and zebra is absolutely one of the most breathtaking natural wonders in Africa.
Until then, you may return to Serengeti Heritage Mara River Camp in the afternoon for dinner and overnight.
Day 7: Ngorongoro
After breakfast you go and do a game drive towards central Serengeti, then continue to Ngorongoro for dinner and overnight at Rhino lodge on the rim of the crater.
Day 8: Ngorongoro crater – Tarangire
A day to wave your goodbye to the great Serengeti!
On this day 8, you may set off towards the Ngorongoro Crater for a game drive with picnic lunch.
Ngorongoro shelters close to 30.000 animals including the Big Five.
The crater teems with zebras, buffaloes, lions, wildebeest, warthogs, baboons, elephants, flamingos, ostriches, hippos, cheetahs and a small population of the rare black rhino.
The beautiful colors and dancing clouds make the crater almost surreal.
Because of its natural beauty, the Ngorongoro Crater is chosen as one of Africa’s Seven Natural Wonders. In the late afternoon, you drive to Tarangire whistling Thorn Camp for dinner and overnight.
Day 9: Tarangire National Park
I better mention this one before I forget, Tarangire is also the best park for a day trip from Arusha city.
Enjoy a game drive in Tarangire National Park with a picnic breakfast.
This lovely park boasts the largest concentrations of elephants in the world and the highest number of breeding bird species.
Tarangire is always fantastic especially during the dry season, Tarangire National park is packed with wildlife.
Big cats like lions, cheetahs, and leopards, but also the seldom seen Kudu, Oryx, and Gerenuk are all in Tarangire waiting for you.
If you are lucky you can even spot the tree-climbing python. I was lucky once, and trust me guys, that moment will always stay with me forever.
Until then you can return to the lodge for dinner.
In the evening you depart for a night game drive in the park. Discover nocturnal animals like porcupines, pangolin, aardvark, and others.
Why not spend overnight at Tarangire whistling thorn camp? It is one of the best
Day 10: Departure
At this point, filled with sadness that you’re about to leave amazing Tanzania, you’d already dive in deep plans within your head figuring out your next Tanzania safari.
So on this last day of your safari, drive back to Arusha for a lunch and then continue to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your departure flight.
Let’s Travel in Tanzania
My 3 best itineraries to travel in Tanzania will help you plan your trip to Tanzania at any time of the year. Whether this is your first time visiting Tanzania or you’re a seasoned traveler, these Tanzania itineraries will point you in the right direction to get started planning your trip!
When planning your Tanzania safari around these 3 best itineraries to travel in Tanzania, remember that you can budget the days of the trip anyway you like but as I have provided recommended suggestions, it is my pleasure that off you go and enjoy a perfect Tanzania safari.
Check more itineraries for more inspirations.
If you’re searching for the best itineraries to travel in Tanzania, you have come to the right place!
Planning for your Tanzania itinerary should be fun and exciting, not stressful, which is why I put together this detailed post to show you how to spend your time in Tanzania and get the most out of your stay in this beautiful land.
I have traveled to Tanzania and to be honest, there is no popular destination in Tanzania that I am yet to set feet in.
As if that isn’t enough, I have visited these Tanzania best destinations at least twice to get the true flavor of this country which was voted the best safari country of Africa in 2013.
It may seam bragging but I promise you it isn’t. I know the best places in Tanzania and things to do and today I am giving away 3 best itineraries to travel in Tanzania.
And trust me, these itineraries are not what you think, they are not what you have seen in the past, they are carefully designed to cater for a wide range of interests while focusing on must go places and things to do and see in Tanzania.
Furthermore, I have put together these 3 best itineraries to travel in Tanzania in a way that they include some of Tanzania’s most famous things to do as well as some lesser-known suggestions that may not be recommended by others.
My goal is for you to see the best of what Tanzania has to offer on your trip.
For these 3 best itineraries to travel in Tanzania, I will provide you with a breakdown of the stops I recommend and the best sites to see.
Since everyone is different I won’t tell you that it is a must you follow these itineraries but rather, use them as your pilot to have a stunning safari package for your Tanzania safari.
But in case you fall in love with all of them (who knows) feel free to use either of them in your next travel to Tanzania and hats off, go and enjoy the safari of a lifetime experience.
So instead of planning out every moment of every day of your trip to Tanzania, I provide you with structured yet loose itineraries to follow for your Tanzania travel.
Before you go, make sure you aren’t forgetting any of these 10 best things to do in Arusha which is the tourism hub of Tanzania. I want to make sure that I have you equipped enough so you enjoy the most of your Tanzania safari.
Getting to Tanzania.
Before we see these 3 best itineraries to travel to in Tanzania, let me give you a quick highlight on how you can reach this wonderful destination of Africa.
Tanzania can be reached both by flight and bus depending on where you are coming from.
If traveling from somewhere oversees, a flight to Dar-es-salaam then an approximately 10hr drive to Arusha should on the way give you some early test of Tanzania.
Alternatively, a flight to Kilimanjaro International airport which is just a few minutes’ drives to Arusha, the tourism hub of Tanzania will save you some time to go and explore the best things to do in Arusha that I reminded to visit just a few paras above.
Before I forget, there are visitors who prefer to fly to Nairobi, Kenya which is neighboring to Tanzania, Arusha specifically and there fly or use a bus to Arusha to immediately start their Tanzania safari. Here again, the choice is yours.
Weather in Tanzania
To describe the weather in Tanzania, I will use two regions. Dar es Salaam and Arusha.
Dar es Salaam is the most populous city in the country as well as the important economic center in East Africa.
Dar es Salaam will give you an idea of the warmer regions of Tanzania while Arusha, famously known as Geneva of Africa due to its weather like, will give you a taste in colder regions of the country.
Let’s start with Dar es Salaam weather, shall we?
Weather in Dar es Salaam
If you’re tired of cold uninspiring weather, Dar es Salaam may well give you an escape
Dar es Salaam is one of the hottest cities in Tanzania. Do not bring jackets and pullovers in Dar es Salaam, they are worthless there.
With hot and humid weather almost the full year, the simple lightweight outfit will do when embarking best things to do in Dar es Salaam
In Dar es Salaam it rains as well
In a normal year, Dar es Salaam has two rainy seasons usually in April and May as well as in November and December.
Rainy season in Dar es Salaam won’t mean excessive cold though, the city will still be warm though not as much.
Weather in Arusha
Now, this is what makes most visitors fall in love with the city. The cool dry air prevails almost the full year.
It is one of those few regions on the planet where the cold is moderate while the hot weather doesn’t prevail very aggressively.
With temperature usually ranging between 5 and 30 degrees, on most occasions 25 degrees annual temperature is recorded, Arusha has the most rewarding weather in Tanzania.
Now as you know a thing or two about Tanzania, I believe you’d second me if I’d politely ask you to put on your Tanzania safari apron and be sure to follow these 3 best itineraries to travel in Tanzania to the end.
5 days best Itinerary to Travel in Tanzania
Duration: 5 Day
Destinations: Lake Manyara, Ngorongoro Crater, Serengeti & Tarangire
Price: Somewhere from $1,880 per person (based on 2 people)
Accommodation Type: Mid-Range Lodges and Tented Camps
If you’re looking for the best wildlife adventure safari then nothing surpasses this itinerary.
What makes it even the best in its price. For someone who knows Tanzania safari costs, this is among the best prices you may find yet with a package that has mid-range lodges and camps in it and not the budget accommodations.
Make sure you travel with me as I am going to break down the day after another.
I want you to have a sneak preview of what you’re going to see and do in Tanzania so that your planning for a Tanzania safari should no longer be stressful.
Day 1: Lake Manyara/Nature walk
Before starting this first day, breakfast will make you fresh and motivated for the day ahead.
This first day is that which gives you the true feeling of Tanzania and on the very first day, you’ll immediately start to get a feeling that, yes….this is the best itinerary to travel in Tanzania.
After breakfast, drive to Lake Manyara national park for a game drive with picnic lunch.
In this small but very beautiful park with the dense forest, you will have the opportunity to see lots of monkeys, giraffes, elephants, impalas, dik-dik, flamingos in the lake, and if you are lucky you may spot the rare tree-climbing lions.
Also apart from being lucky, you’ll need a guide with eagle eyes.
Not once or twice that I was luckier to be with a guide who could spot animals in a camouflage that the rest of drivers couldn’t spot.
In the late afternoon, I suggest you continue and end the day with a good dinner. In this area, I would insist that you use Eileen’s trees inn for dinner and overnight.
Day 2: Ngorongoro Crater
Until finishing this second day, there’d be no doubt left on your head that this is the best itinerary to travel in Tanzania when it comes to wildlife adventure.
As I always say, breakfast can make or break your day, I strongly suggest you ensure you have a nice breakfast before safari hit the ground running on the second day.
After early breakfast, prepare yourself to depart with your picnic lunch and drive off to Ngorongoro crater for the unique, unmatched game drive.
In the Ngorongoro crater expect to witness animals like; pride of lions, clans of hyenas, packs of jackals, a crash of hippos, dazzles of zebras, herds wildebeests.
Others are bulls of elephants often with incredibly long tusks because of the highly nutritious grass rich in minerals, and depending on the day, you may well see more animals.
Ngorongoro is also the best place to spot the rare black rhino.
In the late afternoon, I suggest you continue to Serengeti Osinon camp, a small luxury camp owned by Earthlife Expeditions located in the heart of Serengeti national park.
In the Osinon, you will have a hot shower to keep you fresh again after the African massage (the bumpy and dusty drive)
Evenings are never boring at Osinon, after all, why not meet your guide at the fireplace for a cold beer and story swapping?
In a clear night, you will have the opportunity to learn about the African night sky as you wait for your dinner, this is one of the best experiences I will always cherish.
I don’t remember looking a beautiful sunset amazingly than the evening at Osinon.
At Osinon, hyenas and lions are often heard roaring as you seat from the fireplace that gives you unique experience of African nights in the wild.
After dinner, you will be escorted by Maasai warriors to your rooms for overnight.
Day 3: Serengeti National Park
The best was yet to come!
If someone would ask me to mention only one place to visit in Tanzania, I won’t think twice, I would simply say ‘go Serengeti!
To get the most out of the Serengeti, I pray that you wake up early in the morning for a cup of coffee/tea and snacks then collect your picnic breakfast and depart for a game drive.
Animals are normally seen right from the camp and in the early morning, you still have chances to see them active.
Serengeti is the park with the largest concentration of big mammals in the world and it is where you will see most of your exciting wildlife.
The sightings in the central Serengeti will include pride of lions, cheetahs, leopards, elephants, giraffes, hippos, impalas, dik-dik, monkeys, baboons, gazelles, warthogs, and many more.
In the noon or afternoon, you will have to return to Osinon camp for hot lunch and a short siesta before departing for another game drive in the afternoon.
Assuming you have some questions and you’re never ready to bring them back home with you, use the evening time to ask them to your guide.
Today again you will seat with your guide at the fireplace and get some information about Tanzania from the pre-colonial time to independence until now. Later on, get your dinner and overnight at the Serengeti Osinon camp.
Day 4: Serengeti National Park/Tarangire
As I am on the fourth day on this first among 3 itineraries to travel in Tanzania, I would like to remind you that Serengeti national park was voted the best safari park in Africa.
After breakfast at Osinon camp, you’ll be well served by doing a morning game drive in the Serengeti national park.
In the late afternoon, why not continue to Eileen’s trees in at Karatu for dinner?
After dinner, you may wish to go out with your guide for a drink or two in a local bar and have fun with the local people.
In this fourth day, I highly recommend you spend a night at Eileen’s trees inn.
Day 5: Tarangire National Park/Departure
I like early breakfasts during safaris.
That way, you get enough time to enjoy your safari
In this last day of first among 3 itineraries to travel Tanzania, get early breakfast so that you will drive to Tarangire national park for a wonderful game drive.
This park has the largest concentration of elephants, often seen bathing in the Tarangire river, lots of giraffes, monkeys, impalas and many birds.
Tarangire is also one of the best places to see lions and leopards.
In the late afternoon, your safari would be approaching its end so it’s better you prepare yourself to return back to Arusha for your departure/continue with other arrangements you may have
14 days Best Itinerary to Travel in Tanzania
Duration: 14 Days
Destinations: Arusha, Lake Manyara, Serengeti, Ngorongoro and Zanzibar
Price: $3490 per person
Accommodation Type: Mid-Range Lodges & Tented Camps
Let’s face it, it’s clear that anyone knowledgeable on planning Tanzania safari would agree this is simply one of the best when it comes to the best itineraries to travel in Tanzania.
If you’re looking for an amazing safari experience that combines superb wildlife viewing with tropical beach life, this itinerary has it all.
This itinerary gives you the chance to visit the best wildlife parks in northern Tanzania like the famous Serengeti and the Ngorongoro Crater, where you can spot all of Africa’s big game including the Big Five.
It doesn’t end just there!
After a perfect safari to the Serengeti and other parks, travel to the tropical island of Zanzibar, where you discover the fascinating cultural history of Stone Town.
There is no a better experience than relaxing on the white sandy beaches of Zanzibar, surrounded by the warm turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean while reading your ‘How to Fail at Almost Everything and Still Win Big’ book.
Now let’s dive deep to uncover this itinerary, shall we?
Day 1: Arrival
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro airport, you will be met by the driver and transferred to a lodge in Arusha.
I suggest Ambureni coffee lodge in this case where you’ll have your dinner and overnight.
At this point, I would encourage you to settle into your accommodation, relax as the coming day you’d start your safari proper in the morning.
Day 2: Arusha National Park
Take your breakfast as early as possible in the morning and make sure you take with you a picnic lunch.
After breakfast head to Arusha National Park for morning game drive.
Arusha national park is one of the smaller national parks in Tanzania, but to my surprise, it has a rich variety of wildlife and landscapes that are just amazing compared to the area.
From the swampy Ngurdoto Crater and alkaline lakes to dense jungle and the towering peaks of Mount Meru and Kilimanjaro, Arusha national park gives you it all.
In the afternoon you go on a 2-hours forest hike on the base of Mount Meru to the Tululusia waterfall.
Apart from the amazing view of this mountain from the park, it is also the best place to view the highest mountain in Africa, Mount Kilimanjaro.
The view is astonishing at the Mount Meru so be careful unless otherwise, you may stay there for long hours.
In the late afternoon, you may return to the Ambureni coffee lodge for dinner and overnight.
Day 2: Lake Manyara National Park
The second day of our 14 days of wildlife adventure and Zanzibar, which is without a doubt among the best itineraries to travel in Tanzania.
In the morning you drive to Lake Manyara National Park for a nature walk at the edge of the huge soda lake. It feels so amazing to do a nature walk. Its mind satisfying.
After this walk, you hop in the safari vehicle to continue for a game drive in Lake Manyara National Park.
Manyara is known for its huge soda lake filled with pink-hued flamingos, a large population of baboons, incredible birdlife, and breathtaking views.
You can see giraffes, elephants, hippos, buffaloes, zebras, flamingos, and if you are lucky you spot a tree-climbing lion.
In the late afternoon, you will continue to Eileen’s trees inn for dinner and overnight.
Day 3: Lake Manyara
I advise you spend another day at Manyara as there’re loads to experience that’ll leave you awe-inspired
Day 4: Serengeti
As always, take your breakfast as early as possible so that the day’s program gets up as soon as possible.
After breakfast head to Serengeti national park for a game drive with picnic lunch.
Serengeti is the park with the largest concentration of big mammals in the world.
Here you will see the most wildlife and this will probably be the highlight of your entire safari.
Animals in the Serengeti include pride of lions, leopards, cheetahs, elephants, impalas, giraffes, hippos, warthogs, lots of birds, and many more.
In the late afternoon, you will continue to Serengeti bush camp for dinner and overnight.
Day 5: Serengeti
In this best itinerary to travel in Tanzania, today you go on a morning and afternoon game drive in the famous Serengeti National Park.
If you want to spot the Big Five – lion, elephant, leopard, rhino, and buffalo- all in one park, the Serengeti is one of the best places to do so.
The abundance of wildlife in this park is unmatched anywhere else in Africa.
Depending on which time of the year you visit this park, you can also witness the Great Migration.
It’s an impressive experience to see all those hoofed mammals, followed by iconic predators, migrate in a clockwise circle every year.
In the late afternoon, you will continue to Serengeti bush camp for dinner and overnight.
Day 6: Ngorongoro
After breakfast, you depart for a morning game drive in the Serengeti with picnic lunch.
In the afternoon why not pay a visit to a traditional Maasai village to get an insight into the lifestyle of these graceful warriors?
After this exciting cultural experience, head to Eileen’s Trees Inn for dinner and overnight.
Day 7: Ngorongoro Crater
Another beautiful day in this best itinerary to travel to Tanzania.
In this 6th day, you set off towards the Ngorongoro Crater for a beautiful game drive.
Ngorongoro itself, shelters close to 30.000 animals including the Big Five.
The crater teems with zebras, buffaloes, lions, wildebeest, warthogs, baboons, elephants, flamingos, ostriches, hippos, cheetahs, and a small population of the rare black rhino.
The beautiful colors and dancing clouds make the crater almost surreal. Because of its natural beauty, the Ngorongoro Crater is chosen as one of Africa’s Seven Natural Wonders.
In the late afternoon return to Eileen Trees Inn for dinner and overnight.
Day 8: Arusha – Zanzibar
In the morning you drive back to Arusha. From Ngorongoro, right?
After lunch, you continue to Arusha Airport for a flight to Zanzibar.
Upon arrival on the tropical island, I recommend you stay at the historical Zanzibar Coffee house at Stone town for dinner and overnight.
Day 9: Zanzibar Stone town
Spend a full day exploring the historical Stone Town.
It is a fascinating labyrinth of narrow streets and alleyways that are a joy to explore.
While there, discover the architectural gems, tasteful restaurants, churches, markets, and gardens.
There are plenty of interesting places to visit on a cultural tour, like the House of Wonders, Darajani market place, Sultan’s Palace, and the Slave Market.
The mix of Arab, Persian, Indian, and European influences makes Stone Town absolutely unique. In the late afternoon, you return to the Zanzibar Coffee house for dinner and overnight.
Day 10: Zanzibar Stone Town
Until here, I strongly believe you have noticed my ability to pick the best itineraries to travel to Tanzania! But wait, you haven’t seen it all yet!
Today go on a spice tour.
Walk with a tour guide through the villages and spice plantations where pepper, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, nutmeg, etc grows.
Your tour guide will explain how the plants grow and what we use it for.
You may continue your tour to Jozani Forest, the last indigenous forest on Zanzibar with impressive mangroves. Here you can view different kinds of monkeys, like the rare red colobus monkeys, trees, and plants.
In the late afternoon, you return to the Zanzibar Coffee house for dinner and overnight.
Day 11, 12 and 13: Zanzibar Nungwi
I call these 3 days the fullest of Zanzibar
In the next 3 days, you can relax at the beautiful Nungwi Beach. This is one of the best beaches on the island.
It has a relaxed atmosphere with beautiful white sandy beaches and turquoise water that gently rolls onto the beach.
You can spend the entire day at the beach since the beaches in this Northern part of the island are not as tidal.
If you like to be more active, there are plenty of options, from village walks and sailing to scuba diving and snorkeling.
You can book the activities at the Warere Beach Hotel where you stay.
As I promised you from the beginning, these 3 best itineraries to travel in Tanzania give you room to add more activities that suites you.
Day 14: Departure
Kind of a sad day
After breakfast, your private driver transfers you to Zanzibar Airport for your departure flight.
10 Days Great Migration Tanzania Safari
Duration: 10 Days
Destinations: Arusha, Lake Manyara, Serengeti , Ngorongoro and Tarangire.
Price: $3718 per person
Accommodation Type: Mid-Range Lodges & Tented Camps
Highlight
Talk about the best itineraries to travel to Tanzania!
This itinerary takes you to the north of Serengeti for a chance to witness the Great Migration.
While the sight of hundreds of thousands of wildebeest and zebras thunder across the plains is spectacular, the Mara River crossing is absolutely one of the most breathtaking natural wonders in Africa.
Dust exploding, lions stalking a moveable feast, gigantic crocodiles, and fast-flowing wild rivers await. It is sensational, impressive, and dramatic at the same time.
Let me break it down to you how it works, shall I?
Day 1: Arrival – Arusha
Arrive at Kilimanjaro Airport and at this first day, I suggest dinner and overnight at Ambureni coffee lodge just a few meters outside Arusha center.
As I always advise, settle into your accommodation, ready to start your safari proper in the morning. If time permits, look to get an arrangement of a complimentary town tour.
Day 2: Lake Manyara National Park
After breakfast, be ready to you drive to Lake Manyara National Park for lifetime experience of a nature walk at the edge of the lake.
What I like most about this nature walk is that it is a great opportunity for you to learn about different plants with their medicinal uses, animal tracks, insects, flowers and to see flamingos in Lake Manyara and other animals.
That awakens your senses, as you become part of the wilderness.
After a few hours, you hop into the safari vehicle and continue with a game drive.
In this small, but beautiful park with the dense forest you can spot lots of monkeys, giraffes, elephants, impalas, hippos, flamingos, and if you are lucky you may spot the rare tree-climbing lions.
In the late afternoon, you drive to Eileen’s Trees Inn for dinner and overnight
Day 3: Serengeti (Central)
The early the morning, the better.
Start this 3rd day by departing in the morning for a game drive in the central part of the Serengeti.
This part is famous for the abundance of lions and leopards that can usually be seen quite easily.
Game viewing in this central area is spectacular all year round.
Allow yourself to enjoy the views of endless plains and stunning wildlife like cheetahs, elephants, giraffes, hippos, ostrich, aardvark, pangolin, and many more.
Dinner and overnight will be at Serengeti Heritage Camp.
Day 4: Serengeti (North)
Things don’t get better than here
After breakfast, you drive to the northern part of the Serengeti for a game drive along the Mara River.
Depending on rainfall, the spectacular crossings of the Mara River can begin as early as June or as late as August.
The wildebeest and zebras must survive the Nile crocodiles and fast-flowing water before facing the lions waiting on the other side.
This time of the year game viewing is sensational, impressive, and dramatic. If I say I have ever encountered the natural phenomena as amazing as the one where it’s clear I’d be lying.
Day 5: Serengeti (North)
Rise up early!
Well, I shouldn’t even remind you that. In fact, what you should have already witnessed on day 4, you’ll simply think the night is too long for you to have another day at North Serengeti.
But honestly, make sure you rise up early for a morning game drive along the Mara River.
It is truly an amazing experience to see all those hoofed mammals in search of water and greener pastures, followed by iconic predators.
A journey is full of danger where only the strongest survive.
You may also see hippos, lions, cheetahs, leopards, elephants, giraffes, warthogs, and if you are lucky the endangered black rhino.
After the afternoon game drive, you head back to Serengeti Heritage Mara River Camp for dinner and overnight.
Day 6: Serengeti (North)
No one has ever felt bored at North Serengeti
Spending 3 days here shows you the way this is the best itinerary to travel in Tanzania when your focus is to explore greater migration.
Day 6 is just another day of morning and afternoon game drives in the North Serengeti along the Mara River.
Dust exploding, lions stalking a moveable feast, gigantic crocodiles, and fast-flowing wild rivers await the herds as they head north.
The river crossing of thousands of wildebeest and zebra is absolutely one of the most breathtaking natural wonders in Africa.
Until then, you may return to Serengeti Heritage Mara River Camp in the afternoon for dinner and overnight.
Day 7: Ngorongoro
After breakfast you go and do a game drive towards central Serengeti, then continue to Ngorongoro for dinner and overnight at Rhino lodge on the rim of the crater.
Day 8: Ngorongoro crater – Tarangire
A day to wave your goodbye to the great Serengeti!
On this day 8, you may set off towards the Ngorongoro Crater for a game drive with picnic lunch.
Ngorongoro shelters close to 30.000 animals including the Big Five.
The crater teems with zebras, buffaloes, lions, wildebeest, warthogs, baboons, elephants, flamingos, ostriches, hippos, cheetahs and a small population of the rare black rhino.
The beautiful colors and dancing clouds make the crater almost surreal.
Because of its natural beauty, the Ngorongoro Crater is chosen as one of Africa’s Seven Natural Wonders. In the late afternoon, you drive to Tarangire whistling Thorn Camp for dinner and overnight.
Day 9: Tarangire National Park
I better mention this one before I forget, Tarangire is also the best park for a day trip from Arusha city.
Enjoy a game drive in Tarangire National Park with a picnic breakfast.
This lovely park boasts the largest concentrations of elephants in the world and the highest number of breeding bird species.
Tarangire is always fantastic especially during the dry season, Tarangire National park is packed with wildlife.
Big cats like lions, cheetahs, and leopards, but also the seldom seen Kudu, Oryx, and Gerenuk are all in Tarangire waiting for you.
If you are lucky you can even spot the tree-climbing python. I was lucky once, and trust me guys, that moment will always stay with me forever.
Until then you can return to the lodge for dinner.
In the evening you depart for a night game drive in the park. Discover nocturnal animals like porcupines, pangolin, aardvark, and others.
Why not spend overnight at Tarangire whistling thorn camp? It is one of the best
Day 10: Departure
At this point, filled with sadness that you’re about to leave amazing Tanzania, you’d already dive in deep plans within your head figuring out your next Tanzania safari.
So on this last day of your safari, drive back to Arusha for a lunch and then continue to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your departure flight.
Let’s Travel in Tanzania
My 3 best itineraries to travel in Tanzania will help you plan your trip to Tanzania at any time of the year. Whether this is your first time visiting Tanzania or you’re a seasoned traveler, these Tanzania itineraries will point you in the right direction to get started planning your trip!
When planning your Tanzania safari around these 3 best itineraries to travel in Tanzania, remember that you can budget the days of the trip anyway you like but as I have provided recommended suggestions, it is my pleasure that off you go and enjoy a perfect Tanzania safari.
Check more itineraries for more inspirations.
