East Africa guide
Tanzania travel guide
Tanzania is one of the best ‘safari + beach’ destinations on earth: Serengeti wildlife, Ngorongoro landscapes, and Zanzibar culture and coast—best done with a route that minimizes long drives.
Best time to visit
Dry-season travel generally suits safaris in the Serengeti and Ngorongoro, while beach months on Zanzibar can have different weather patterns. If you’re targeting the Great Migration, plan specific regions by month.
Safari + beach itinerary (9–12 days)
- Arusha (1 night): gateway town and gear checks.
- Ngorongoro (2 nights): crater day + nearby highlands.
- Serengeti (3–4 nights): focus on one region to reduce driving.
- Zanzibar (3–5 nights): Stone Town + north or east coast beaches.
What to book first
- Camps/lodges inside or near the Serengeti for peak months.
- Internal flights if you want to maximize time and reduce long drives.
- Gorilla or Kilimanjaro add-ons well in advance if combining trips.
Costs and value levers
Costs scale quickly with vehicle exclusivity and camp category. The biggest value lever is choosing a realistic route (fewer long transfers) and staying longer in one area instead of racing between parks.
Practical notes
- Pack neutral colors for game drives and a warm layer for early mornings.
- Carry medication for motion sickness if you’re sensitive to rough roads.
- For Zanzibar, bring reef-safe sunscreen and plan around tides if you care about swimming.
Last updated: 2026-02-06