Northern Circuit and Zanzibar Combo Itinerary

Tanzania offers an unbeatable mix of dramatic landscapes, diverse wildlife, and stunning coastlines. For those wanting the ultimate Tanzania adventure, a Northern Circuit and Zanzibar combo itinerary delivers the best of both worlds — the raw beauty of world-famous national parks like Serengeti and Ngorongoro, followed by pure relaxation on the palm-fringed beaches of Zanzibar.

This itinerary is ideal for couples, families, or solo travelers looking for a balanced trip filled with excitement, culture, and coastal serenity.

What is the Northern Circuit?

The Northern Circuit is Tanzania’s most popular safari route. It includes a series of incredible parks and conservation areas, all located in the northern part of the country:

• Arusha National Park – Close to Kilimanjaro, great for walking safaris and colobus monkeys.

• Tarangire National Park – Famous for elephant herds and baobab trees.

• Lake Manyara – Home to flamingos and tree-climbing lions.

• Ngorongoro Crater – A UNESCO World Heritage Site and natural wildlife sanctuary.

• Serengeti National Park – Known for the Great Migration and classic Big Five safaris.

Sample 11-Day Northern Circuit and Zanzibar Combo Itinerary

🗓️ Days 1–2: Arrival and Arusha National Park

• Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport

• Overnight at a lodge in Arusha

• Optional visit to Arusha National Park or local coffee tour

🗓️ Day 3: Tarangire National Park

• Drive to Tarangire (~2 hours)

• Full-day game drive in a park known for elephants, leopards, and birdlife

• Overnight in a lodge or tented camp near the park

🗓️ Day 4: Lake Manyara National Park

• Short drive to Lake Manyara

• Game drive with chances to spot baboons, flamingos, and tree-climbing lions

• Continue to Karatu for overnight stay

🗓️ Day 5: Ngorongoro Crater

• Early descent into the Ngorongoro Crater

• Enjoy a half-day safari with opportunities to see rhinos, lions, and hippos

• Afternoon drive to the Serengeti

• Overnight at a lodge or camp in the Serengeti

🗓️ Days 6–7: Serengeti National Park

• Full days exploring the vast Serengeti plains

• Game drives to see the Big Five and the Great Migration (seasonal)

• Optional balloon safari

• Overnight in Serengeti

🗓️ Day 8: Fly to Zanzibar

• Morning game drive (optional)

• Fly from Seronera Airstrip to Zanzibar (via Arusha)

• Transfer to your beachfront resort in Nungwi, Kendwa, or Paje

• Overnight in Zanzibar

🗓️ Days 9–10: Zanzibar Island Leisure

• Relax on white-sand beaches or enjoy water activities

• Optional excursions: Stone Town tour, spice farm visit, snorkeling/dolphin tours

• Overnight in a beach resort

🗓️ Day 11: Departure

• Transfer to Zanzibar Airport for international flight or return to Dar es Salaam

Key Highlights

🌍 Northern Safari Circuit

• Witness the Great Wildebeest Migration (June–October & January–March)

• Spot the Big Five in Ngorongoro and Serengeti

• Diverse landscapes: Craters, savannahs, forests, and wetlands

• Experienced guides and 4×4 safari vehicles

🏝️ Zanzibar Experience

• Powdery white beaches and turquoise waters

• Rich cultural history in Stone Town (UNESCO World Heritage Site)

• Coral reef snorkeling, diving, and sunset dhow cruises

• Delicious Swahili and seafood cuisine

Best Time to Go

Accommodation Options

🏕️ On Safari (Northern Circuit)

• Budget: Public campsites or simple tented camps

• Mid-Range: Lodges with en-suite bathrooms, good dining, solar power

• Luxury: Tented camps with private decks, butler service, infinity pools

🏖️ In Zanzibar

• Budget: Backpacker hostels or guesthouses in Paje

• Mid-Range: Boutique resorts with sea views and beach access

• Luxury: 5-star beachfront resorts, all-inclusive packages, private villas

Approximate Pricing (Per Person)

Includes park fees, domestic flights, guides, accommodation, most meals, and airport transfers. International flights are extra.

Planning Tips

1. Book Early – Especially during migration or holiday seasons.

2. Pack for Two Climates – Safari mornings can be chilly; Zanzibar is warm and humid.

3. Add a Cultural Experience – Visit a Maasai village or tour Stone Town for a cultural connection.

4. Choose Your Beach Area Wisely:

   • Nungwi/Kendwa (North): Best for swimming and nightlife.

   • Paje/Jambiani (East): Laid-back vibe, kite surfing, yoga.

   • Stone Town: Great for culture and day trips.

Tour Operators Offering This Combo

• Easy Travel & Tours – Seamless safari-beach transitions and top reviews.

• Rafiki Tours Tanzania – Good mid-range and private group options.

• Zara Tours – Affordable and well-organized Northern Circuit safaris.

• Tanzania Odyssey – Specializes in custom luxury itineraries.

Final Thoughts

A Northern Circuit and Zanzibar combo itinerary is the quintessential Tanzanian journey. It brings together dramatic wildlife encounters and total beach relaxation in one smooth, unforgettable itinerary. Whether you dream of seeing lions on the hunt or sipping cocktails by the ocean, this itinerary has you covered.

Perfect for honeymooners, families, or any curious traveler, it’s a journey that captures the essence of Tanzania — wild, beautiful, and full of wonder.