Giraffe and zebras on the savannah
Safari jeep and elephants
Wildebeest in the sunset

Safari in Tanzania and Zanzibar

From savannah to tropical beaches

Safari in Tanzania and Zanzibar

From savannah to tropical beaches

From USD 5534 Flight included
From USD 4097 Flight not included

This journey takes you from the bustling gateway of Arusha straight into the heart of Tarangire National Park. The park is renowned for its permanent water source, the Tarangire River, which acts as a magnet for wildlife. Here, you will experience the raw beauty of the savannah, where massive elephant herds wander among majestic baobab trees, and lions lounge in the shade of the acacias.

This short yet immersive itinerary is perfect for those seeking a focused, high-quality wildlife experience without long travel distances, or as a spectacular addition to a larger African adventure.

Highlights

  • Home to some of the largest elephant populations in Tanzania
  • Explore ancient landscapes filled with Africa’s legendary “Tree of Life.”
  • Close encounters with a wide range of African wildlife
  • Authentic safari camps with exceptional service
  • Pristine tropical beaches

 

The tour starts in Arusha, the gateway to Tanzania's safari kingdom. After a day of rest at a peaceful lodge to find your rhythm, we set our sights on Tarangire National Park—the land of giants. This park offers a different, more ancient atmosphere than the open plains, where massive baobab trees punctuate a landscape that feels like a scene from another era.

We have created a route that gives you an intensive and high-quality meeting with Tarangire’s unique wildlife. Here, the lifeblood of the park is the Tarangire River, which draws in enormous herds of elephants—some of the largest in all of East Africa. Between the whistling thorns and the golden grass, you will get up close to a diverse world of giraffes, zebras, and predators like lions and leopards that thrive in this rugged terrain. Waking up to the morning chorus of the bush and the scent of the savannah is an experience that stays with you long after you return home.

By dedicating two full days to this specific park, we avoid the rush and instead embrace the art of the slow safari. This allows us to venture deeper into the park’s hidden corners, where we might spot the famous tree-climbing pythons or rare bird species. It is a journey designed for those who want to truly immerse themselves in the pulse of the African wilderness.

We believe that the best travel is the one that gives you time to take in the impressions. This program is a concentrated dose of the best Northern Tanzania has to offer—a perfect, powerful African experience that fits into a shorter window without compromising on the magic of the wild. If you are intersted in a longer Tanzanian safari experinece learn more about our Safari in Serengeti with beach holiday at Zanzibar trip. 

9-11

2-12

NO/EN

1/6

5/6

1/6

Private tour only

This trip is only offered as a private tour. Order by contacting us through the form.

Request private tour
Opening hours Phone
Mon-Fri : 08-20
Sat-Sun : 14-17
Opening hours Chat
Mon-Fri : 07-23
Sat : 10-18
Sun : 13-21
CET

Day by day

Zeebras in field under tree
Mountain and hot air balloon and blue skies

Day 1:Departure

We are traveling towards Tanzania. The itinerary will vary based on where you are coming from. Travellers from Norway usually depart from Oslo Airport, and have a stopover before arriving at Kilimanjaro Airport. For other departures, airfare and tickets will not be included in the program, unless otherwise agreed.

We are traveling towards Tanzania. The itinerary will vary based on where you are coming from. Travellers from Norway usually depart from Oslo Airport, and have a stopover before arriving at Kilimanjaro Airport. For other departures, airfare and tickets will not be included in the program, unless otherwise agreed.

People walking on a street

Day 2:Arrival in Tanzania

We arrive at Kilimanjaro airport, where we are met by our African friends. We arrange visas and make our way through the queues until we get out into the warmth of Africa. We arrive at the pleasant hotel in Arusha. Here we can gather strength for the big day tomorrow! If time allows, we can take a trip into Arusha.

We arrive at Kilimanjaro airport, where we are met by our African friends. We arrange visas and make our way through the queues until we get out into the warmth of Africa. We arrive at the pleasant hotel in Arusha. Here we can gather strength for the big day tomorrow! If time allows, we can take a trip into Arusha.

Hotel

-,-,D

Elephant eating from a tree
Sunset in a forest

Day 3:Into the Elephant Empire of Tarangire

After breakfast, we head toward Tarangire National Park, famously known as the "playground of elephants." The journey leads us into a wild landscape dominated by ancient baobab trees and the winding Tarangire River. Our wildlife adventure begins as soon as we enter the gates, keeping a sharp eye out for massive elephant herds and tree-climbing lions. In the evening, we check into our safari lodge for dinner under the starlit African sky.

After breakfast, we head toward Tarangire National Park, famously known as the "playground of elephants." The journey leads us into a wild landscape dominated by ancient baobab trees and the winding Tarangire River. Our wildlife adventure begins as soon as we enter the gates, keeping a sharp eye out for massive elephant herds and tree-climbing lions. In the evening, we check into our safari lodge for dinner under the starlit African sky.

Safari Lodge

B,L,D

Giraffe standing in the wild
Elephant in the savannah
Antelope by a river

Day 4:Full Day Safari Among the Giants

We have a full day at our disposal to explore the deeper reaches of Tarangire. With a packed picnic lunch, we can follow the natural rhythm of the wildlife throughout the day. We will visit the riverbanks where thirsty zebras, wildebeests, and giraffes congregate, and explore the more remote marshlands in the south. This offers excellent chances to spot leopards in the trees or the park’s immense concentration of birds of prey. We return to the lodge in the late afternoon with memories for a lifetime.

We have a full day at our disposal to explore the deeper reaches of Tarangire. With a packed picnic lunch, we can follow the natural rhythm of the wildlife throughout the day. We will visit the riverbanks where thirsty zebras, wildebeests, and giraffes congregate, and explore the more remote marshlands in the south. This offers excellent chances to spot leopards in the trees or the park’s immense concentration of birds of prey. We return to the lodge in the late afternoon with memories for a lifetime.

Safari Lodge

B,L,D

Savanah at sunset
Masai men and a jeep

Day 5:Morning Wilderness and Departure for Zanzibar

We start the day early with one last game drive in the golden morning light—the prime time to witness predators on the move. After an eventful morning in the wilderness, we leave the national park and head back toward the airport for your onward journey. We carry the sounds of the savannah and the impressions of this land of giants with us as we depart for Arusha. Now, we make our way for the pristine beaches of Zanzibar, where arrive in the evening.

We start the day early with one last game drive in the golden morning light—the prime time to witness predators on the move. After an eventful morning in the wilderness, we leave the national park and head back toward the airport for your onward journey. We carry the sounds of the savannah and the impressions of this land of giants with us as we depart for Arusha. Now, we make our way for the pristine beaches of Zanzibar, where arrive in the evening.

Hotel

B,L,-

Zanzibar beach
Hammock on a beach

Day 6 - 9:Relaxing days on the beach

We work with various beach hotels, so here it is up to your preferences and budget where you wish to stay. There are many opportunities for excursions, and most hotels offer watersports activities and boat trips for snorkeling. It is time to settle in and switch into holiday mode.

We work with various beach hotels, so here it is up to your preferences and budget where you wish to stay. There are many opportunities for excursions, and most hotels offer watersports activities and boat trips for snorkeling. It is time to settle in and switch into holiday mode.

Hotel

B,-,-

A wing on a plane

Day 10:Homeward bound

All good things come to an end, and it's time to say goodbye to beach life for now. Flights homeward mostly depart in the evening/night and arrive the next day.

All good things come to an end, and it's time to say goodbye to beach life for now. Flights homeward mostly depart in the evening/night and arrive the next day.

Day 11:Arrival home

You usually arrive in the morning or early afternoon.

You usually arrive in the morning or early afternoon.

We are traveling towards Tanzania. The itinerary will vary based on where you are coming from. Travellers from Norway usually depart from Oslo Airport, and have a stopover before arriving at Kilimanjaro Airport. For other departures, airfare and tickets will not be included in the program, unless otherwise agreed.

We arrive at Kilimanjaro airport, where we are met by our African friends. We arrange visas and make our way through the queues until we get out into the warmth of Africa. We arrive at the pleasant hotel in Arusha. Here we can gather strength for the big day tomorrow! If time allows, we can take a trip into Arusha.

Hotel

-,-,D

After breakfast, we head toward Tarangire National Park, famously known as the "playground of elephants." The journey leads us into a wild landscape dominated by ancient baobab trees and the winding Tarangire River. Our wildlife adventure begins as soon as we enter the gates, keeping a sharp eye out for massive elephant herds and tree-climbing lions. In the evening, we check into our safari lodge for dinner under the starlit African sky.

Safari Lodge

B,L,D

We have a full day at our disposal to explore the deeper reaches of Tarangire. With a packed picnic lunch, we can follow the natural rhythm of the wildlife throughout the day. We will visit the riverbanks where thirsty zebras, wildebeests, and giraffes congregate, and explore the more remote marshlands in the south. This offers excellent chances to spot leopards in the trees or the park’s immense concentration of birds of prey. We return to the lodge in the late afternoon with memories for a lifetime.

Safari Lodge

B,L,D

We start the day early with one last game drive in the golden morning light—the prime time to witness predators on the move. After an eventful morning in the wilderness, we leave the national park and head back toward the airport for your onward journey. We carry the sounds of the savannah and the impressions of this land of giants with us as we depart for Arusha. Now, we make our way for the pristine beaches of Zanzibar, where arrive in the evening.

Hotel

B,L,-

We work with various beach hotels, so here it is up to your preferences and budget where you wish to stay. There are many opportunities for excursions, and most hotels offer watersports activities and boat trips for snorkeling. It is time to settle in and switch into holiday mode.

Hotel

B,-,-

All good things come to an end, and it's time to say goodbye to beach life for now. Flights homeward mostly depart in the evening/night and arrive the next day.

You usually arrive in the morning or early afternoon.

What's included in the price

Included

The price includes return flights Oslo - Kilimanjaro Airport / Zanzibar - Oslo. Request quotes from other cities in Norway.

All transportation as specified in the program.

In shared two-person tents on safari. There are also family tents in the camps, but we will need to check availability for the specified dates. We will be staying in hotels on the beach, both small and large. 

Meals as specified in the program

Unlimited mileage

For the safari

Not included

Tips are not included in the price, and Norwegians normally tip around 10% in restaurants if they are satisfied, or when leaving the safari camp.
Normally, you also pay a little for the safari guide. In Tanzania, you can expect to pay around USD 10-15 per day per person for a safari guide. Tips are something you pay when you are satisfied! As a family, you pay a total of around USD 25-30 per family per day, in addition to leaving something in the tip box at the camps, + around 10% at restaurants if service is not included in the bill. 

Some of the camps are all-inclusive, in which case this will be specified in your travel offer. 

For an additional fee.

Visa for Tanzania (including Zanzibar) is not included. This must be applied for online (E-visa) before departure or can be obtained upon arrival at the airport (approx. 50 USD). Please ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months after your return date.

Terms and conditions

We reserve the right to change prices. The day by day program is indicative and changes may occur. We also refer to our general travel conditions.

Travel insurance

On all our trips, we require you to have full health and accident insurance which will also cover any transport home. Read more about travel insurance.

Highlights

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Safety & Grading

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For departures with Norrøna Adventure guides:

  • 24-hour emergency response
  • Guides trained in first aid in the field
  • Basic first aid equipment available
  • Cooperation with Turlegen.no for medical advice

Physical level

1/6 Physical

These are our simplest tours and require minimal prior experience. On trips with this rating, the stages are relatively short and the pace is calm. We have plenty of time to enjoy the view and arrive at the day's destination. Can be carried out by anyone who likes activity and is in normal physical health.

Comfort level

5/6 Comfort

Good to high quality hotels with good meals, ambience and service. Accommodation with a special touch.

Risk level

1/6 Risk

Activities/trips with minimal risk/everyday risk (incidents that can just as easily occur in everyday life).

The Rhythm of Tarangire

The Dry Season (June – October): This is when Tarangire truly shines. As the surrounding lands dry up, the Tarangire River becomes the only life-giving water source for miles. Thousands of animals—elephants, wildebeest, and zebras—migrate into the park. The thinning vegetation makes this the absolute best time for predator sightings and witnessing the "Elephant Empire" in its full glory.

The Green Season (November – May): After the short rains, the park transforms into a lush, emerald garden. While the large migratory herds disperse into the wider Maasai Steppe, the "resident" wildlife—including lions, giraffes, and waterbucks—remain. This is a quiet, exclusive time to visit, perfect for birdwatchers seeing migratory species and photographers capturing the iconic baobabs against dramatic, moody skies.

Visas, Vaccinations and Health

Before embarking on our journey together, we kindly remind all tour participants to check their respective country's visa status and vaccination requirements. Ensuring your travel documents are in order is a crucial step in guaranteeing a smooth and hassle-free adventure. A visa is usually required for visits to Tanzania. You can order a visa for Tanzania online before departure, or buy it at Kilimanjaro Airport for 50 US Dollars. Passports must be valid for at least 6 months after the date of return. 

Norwegian citizens require a visa to Tanzania. See also the currenty entry and visa regulations on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs' country pages.

If you are over 67, you should have a thorough medical check-up before your trip. Make your doctor aware that this is a trip involving physical exertion and moving off the beaten track.

It is important that you complete all parts of the registration form (especially where we ask for information about health and allergies), and let us know if there is anything we need to be aware of prior to and during the tour. Relevant health information that may affect the tour should also be communicated to the guide at the start of the tour. *Note* - If you are on regular medication, have known allergies or anything similar, you must always bring your personal medication with you.

See the overview on FHI's pages on travel vaccines. For vaccination and guidance, please contact Sentrum Reisemedisin: www.reisemedisin.no.

Other information

When you leave the savannah for the white sands of Zanzibar, you'll encounter the fascinating rhythm of the Indian Ocean. The island experiences significant tidal shifts twice a day, which completely transform the coastline.

  • At High Tide: The azure water reaches the edge of the palm trees, creating the postcard-perfect scene for swimming and snorkeling right off the beach.
  • At Low Tide: The ocean retreats several hundred meters, revealing a magical landscape of coral lagoons and sandbanks. This is the perfect time for a "reef walk" to spot starfish, sea urchins, and local seaweed farmers at work.

Pro Tip: If swimming at all hours is your priority, we recommend the northern beaches of Nungwi and Kendwa, where the tidal impact is less pronounced. Elsewhere on the island, the tide offers a unique, ever-changing perspective of the sea.

It is fully possible to store excess luggage in Arusha, which is ideal if you are heading off on a beach holiday or other adventures after the safari.

Please note that it can be challenging to source gluten-free whole grain bread, lactose-free alternatives, or to accommodate specific dietary preferences in certain areas. If you have any allergies, please include them in your registration form, and we will do our best to accommodate your needs. However, we recommend that those with specific dietary requirements bring a few alternatives along—such as a pack of crispbread, energy bars, or similar snacks you know you can eat.

Equipment list

This list is intended as a guideline, so that we have what we need regardless of the weather we get on the trip. Remember that you can also get used outdoor equipment that works perfectly. Get in touch if you have any questions. TIP: We recommend that you have the most important equipment in your hand luggage, for example hiking boots and gore-tex jacket/trousers.

Obligatory

Clothing

We recommend thin wool.

Fleece or wool. 

Down or synthetic insulation.

For evenings and leasure days.

Equipment

Avoid bringing a suitcase, they are more difficult to transport between hotels.

Personal medicines and, for example, band-aids, blister plaster, sports tape, throat lozenges, nasal drops, Paracetamol/Ibuprofen, stomach regulators, etc.
We need to know about all medicines you are taking, in case something happens. 

Tooth brush, tooth paste, small towel, ear plugs, wet wipes, biodegradable soap, etc.

Passport, tickets, bank card, proof of vaccination andproof of insurance. Remember to have a copy of important documents on your phone and/or somewhere in your bag. 

Recommended

Clothing
Footwear
Equipment

Toilet paper, antibac, and waste bags for the paper. Remember leave no trace.

Nuts, chocolate, energy bars, etc.

Packing Tips

It is said that dark colors—such as navy blue, black, dark green, and red—can make you more visible to mosquitoes when combined with movement and breath. Because of this, many travelers opt for more muted earth tones like beige, olive green, and brown. However, it is equally important to stay covered and use insect repellent, especially around sunrise and sunset when mosquitoes are most active.

A sun hat or cap is highly recommended, along with a small daypack for your water bottle and safari essentials. A lightweight down jacket or windbreaker and a warm fleece are also great to have for early mornings and late evenings, as the nights out here often turn quite chilly.

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