Tanzania is the safari and beach combination done properly, because the two halves are genuinely world class rather than one carrying the other. The standard route runs northern circuit first, then flies to Zanzibar to decompress.

The northern safari circuit

Serengeti (3-4 days)

The migration moves through the ecosystem year-round, so where you stay matters more than when you go. Southern plains for calving around February, western corridor mid-year, northern Serengeti for Mara River crossings roughly July to October.

Ngorongoro Crater (1-2 days)

A collapsed caldera holding a permanent concentration of wildlife, including black rhino. Extraordinary and busy. Descend at opening.

Tarangire (1-2 days)

Baobabs and very large elephant herds, best in dry season. Frequently skipped and shouldn’t be.

Lake Manyara (1 day)

Tree-climbing lions and flamingos. Usually a half day on the way through.

Zanzibar

Stone Town (1-2 days)

A UNESCO old town of Swahili, Arab, Indian and European influence. Carved doors, the former slave market memorial, and the Forodhani night food market.

The beaches

  • Nungwi and Kendwa (north). Minimal tidal variation, so swimming works all day. Liveliest.
  • Paje and Jambiani (east). Kitesurfing centre, dramatic tides that expose the reef flat at low water.
  • Matemwe (northeast). Quieter, good for Mnemba atoll snorkelling.
  • Kizimkazi (south). Dolphins, far fewer visitors.

Tides matter enormously on the east coast. At low tide the sea retreats hundreds of metres. Check tide tables before committing to a beach if swimming is the priority.

When to go

  • June to October. Dry season, best game viewing, best Zanzibar weather. Peak prices.
  • January to February. Short dry window, calving season in the southern Serengeti.
  • March to May. Long rains. Cheapest, greenest, many coastal properties close.
  • November. Short rains, usually brief afternoon storms only.

Practical notes

  • Fly between the mainland and Zanzibar. The Dar es Salaam ferry adds a full day.
  • Yellow fever certificate required if arriving from a country with risk. Speak to a travel health professional about malaria prophylaxis well in advance.
  • Zanzibar is majority Muslim. Cover shoulders and knees away from beach resorts, particularly in Stone Town.
  • Park fees are substantial and usually quoted separately from lodge rates.
  • Ten days is the realistic minimum for both halves. Fourteen is better.

For alternatives, see the best safari destinations in Africa.