New: Republic of the Congo Holidays

Superlative Southern Tanzania and Zanzibar

Duration
12 days
Price
£4,275 pp.
Location
Tanzania, Africa
Zanzibar queen hotel 104

Trip Highlights

  • Relaxing on the beautiful beaches of Zanzibar
  • Incredible safari adventure in Ruaha NP
  • Some of the world's best birdwatching

What's Included

  • All transfers and guides
  • Park fees
  • Domestic flights

The ultimate safari and beach trip

A bit of luxury on the quintessential safari-beach combination trip

This itinerary is a real treat! Ideal for couples, families or groups of friends; this really is suitable for everyone. It is a fantastic combination that works well for anyone looking to combine safari and beach - with a little added luxury.

This trip includes two of the most incredible untouched areas of protected wilderness in Tanzania which do not get nearly the same volume of tourist traffic as do the parks of northern Tanzania. Ruaha National Park is just teeming with wildlife and offers a true off-the-beaten-track nature experience.

The beach part of the trip continues to Zanzibar in the azure waters of the Indian Ocean, Zanzibar stands as a jewel in East Africa's coastal crown, offering a harmonious blend of rich history, vibrant culture, and natural beauty. Known as the "Spice Island," Zanzibar tantalizes the senses with its aromatic spice plantations, where cloves, vanilla, and nutmeg thrive in the fertile soil. The UNESCO World Heritage site of Stone Town, with its narrow winding streets and historic architecture, transports visitors to a bygone era, showcasing the island's cultural diversity. Beyond the captivating history, Zanzibar's pristine beaches beckon travellers to unwind in paradise, their powdery sands meeting the crystal-clear waters of the Indian Ocean. Whether exploring the vibrant markets, savouring the local cuisine, or simply enjoying the serenity of the coastal landscape, Zanzibar promises an enchanting and idyllic escape for those seeking a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.


Trip Itinerary

Day 1 Ruaha National Park

Staying at Ikuka Safari Lodge

On arrival in to Dar El Salaam, you will transfer to the domestic terminal for your flight to the Ruaha National Park. The flight is just under 3 hours and it beautifully scenic as you fly into the depths of Tanzania. As you touch down at the Jongomero private air strip you will be you will be greeted by your guide and driven to camp in time for a traditional safari lunch.

Your home for the next four nights is Ikuka Safari Lodge where you will check into one of the six luxury tents. This secluded and very well-equipped camp provides the perfect base in between game drives, relax in the lounge or by the pool – but watch out for the thirsty elephants!

Once you have settled in and explored camp, you will set out of your first game drive in the Ruaha before returning to camp for a private dinner and a comfy night’s sleep, dozing off listening to the sounds of the bush.

Days 2-4 Safari Days in Ruaha

Each evening you will discuss the next day’s activities with the camp managers, making plans for walking or driving safaris and deciding when and where to have lunch.

The Ruaha National Park is often overlooked by many safari goers which means that it is certainly one of the quieter parks to visit. It boasts a very impressive big cat population as well as vast herds of elephants and big packs of wild dogs. The Ruaha is also a great destination for birders, with over 500 species of bird already on record here. There are very few places in Tanzania that offer this exclusive and rewarding experience.

After each day’s activities, retire to camp to relax and indulge in the delicious food and drink available.

Days 5 - 10 Zanzibar Queen

Day 11 Zanzibar Palace Hotel

12 Time to head home

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Ruth

Ruth

Africa, Indian Ocean, and Caribbean Specialist

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When to go to Tanzania

Find out the best time to visit Tanzania with our month by month guide.

  • Best
  • Good
  • Mixed
  • Jan
  • Feb
  • Mar
  • Apr
  • May
  • Jun
  • Jul
  • Aug
  • Sep
  • Oct
  • Nov
  • Dec

January

January is mixed when it comes to weather, temperatures rise whilst the chance of rain and humidity increases. It is still a good time to go, as the rates are lower yet the game viewing is still excellent.

  • During this time migratory herds are in the Serengeti for calving season, meaning the Ndutu plains are busy.
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February

The weather remains hot with a chance of rain in February.

  • Meanwhile in the Ndutu Plains the migration is still occurring.
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March

March is the calm before the storm, before heavy rains and humidity builds. Visitors can take great advantage of lower rates during the low season.

  • Migrating herds start to leave Ndutu, heading West towards Grumeti.
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April

April experiences continued periods of heavy rain, we would advise against travel due to the conditions.

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May

During may there is periods of heavy rain, we would advise against travel due to the conditions.

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June

June heralds the wet season, bringing lush green vegetation which can make spotting game more difficult. It is a particularly great time for birders as parks become populated by migratory birds especially in the South.

  • Migration is still in the Grumeti area, heading north.
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July

July is the start of peak season, temperatures reach up to 30 degrees and the surrounding land becomes drier and spotting game is becoming easier.

  • The migration is in the Northern Serengeti moving towards Kenya.
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August

August is peak season, with bush land drying out game spotting becomes much easier. If you want to experience Tanzania game at its best, August is the time to travel.

  • The migration still remains in the north.
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September

Peak season continues in September, the Northern circuit can be very busy, if you want to avoid crowds it's best to visit the southern parks.

  • The end of the migration is still in the north with herds on both side of the Kenyan and Tanzanian borders.
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October

Peak season continues into October with good game viewing in the Serengeti and southern parks.

  • The migration has now crossed over into Kenya.
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November

November is the start of the rainy season, the rains tend to be overnight so it is still a popular time to travel. During this month you can take advantage of low season rates.

  • Migration crossing over into the Serengeti can be seen a the Tanzania and Kenya border.
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December

Rains continue in December, whilst the temperature and humidity start to build. Venturing out on safari is generally good, with large game still easily spotted.

  • Migrating herds in the north travel south back to Ndutu.
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