Why Beach + Bush Works Perfectly
The contrast is part of the magic. After days of dusty game drives, sunrise tracking, and adrenaline-charged predator sightings, Zanzibar's calm waters and spice-scented streets feel like arriving in another world. And after days of sand and sea, the Serengeti's wild energy feels electrifying.
Most East Africa travellers do beach first, then safari — arriving into Zanzibar (international hub), relaxing for 3–5 days, then flying to Tanzania for the wildlife. Alternatively, safari first then end on the beach is equally popular.
The Logistics: Flying Between Zanzibar and Tanzania
Regular scheduled flights connect Zanzibar International Airport (ZNZ) with Arusha (ARK) and Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO). Flight time is approximately 45 minutes to Arusha or 1 hour to KIA. Several airlines operate this route.
For maximum flexibility — and to arrive directly in the Serengeti without a long road transfer — our fly-in safari packages include the airstrip flight from Zanzibar to either Seronera (central Serengeti) or directly to Kogatende.
AMG Safaris offers two fly-in packages from Zanzibar: the 2-Day Fly-In to Tarangire & Ngorongoro (from $810) and the 4-Day Fly-In to Serengeti, Ngorongoro & Tarangire (from $1,420).
Recommended Itinerary: 10 Days
- Days 1–4: Zanzibar — Stone Town, spice tour, Nungwi beach
- Day 5: Fly Zanzibar → Serengeti (Seronera)
- Days 5–6: Central Serengeti game drives
- Day 7: Serengeti → Ngorongoro Crater (full day game drive en route)
- Day 8: Ngorongoro Crater descent — Big Five
- Day 9: Tarangire National Park
- Day 10: Return to Arusha / fly home
Zanzibar: What to Do
- Stone Town: UNESCO World Heritage Site — spice markets, narrow alleys, Swahili architecture
- Nungwi Beach: best snorkelling and diving in the north
- Spice Tour: visit a working clove and vanilla plantation — a unique half-day
- Jozani Forest: home to the rare red colobus monkey
- Sunset Dhow Cruise: traditional wooden boat sailings at dusk
The Zanzibar beach holiday is best April–October (dry season, calm seas). The safari in Tanzania is excellent year-round. For the combination, May–June (shoulder season) or August–October (peak season) are ideal windows.
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