
2-Week Tanzania Safari Itinerary
Northern Circuit + Zanzibar — day-by-day plan from a 48-year operator
Why 2 Weeks Is the Sweet Spot
Two weeks gives you enough time to properly explore the Northern Circuit — Tarangire, Lake Manyara, Ngorongoro Crater, and the Serengeti — without feeling rushed. Adding Zanzibar at the end gives you the complete Tanzania experience: wildlife adventure followed by beach relaxation.
The Itinerary at a Glance
- Days 1–2: Arusha arrival, Tarangire National Park
- Day 3: Lake Manyara National Park
- Day 4: Ngorongoro Crater
- Days 5–8: Serengeti National Park
- Day 9: Flight to Zanzibar
- Days 10–14: Zanzibar beach
Detailed Day-by-Day Breakdown
Days 1–2: Arusha to Tarangire
Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), meet your guide, and drive to Tarangire National Park (approx. 2 hours). Tarangire is known for its large elephant herds and iconic baobab trees. Afternoon game drive, overnight at a lodge on the Tarangire ecosystem.
Day 3: Lake Manyara
Morning game drive in Lake Manyara — famous for tree-climbing lions and large flocks of flamingos. The park is compact but rich in biodiversity. Afternoon transfer to the Ngorongoro Highlands.
Day 4: Ngorongoro Crater
Descend 600 metres into the Ngorongoro Crater for a full morning game drive. The crater floor hosts one of the highest concentrations of wildlife in Africa — lions, elephants, hippos, flamingos, and the rare black rhino. This is often the highlight of a Tanzania safari.
Days 5–8: Serengeti National Park
Drive from Ngorongoro to the Serengeti (approx. 3 hours). Spend 4 days exploring the park's vast plains. Depending on the season, you may witness the Great Migration — over a million wildebeest moving across the ecosystem. The central Serengeti (Seronera Valley) offers excellent year-round predator sightings.
Day 9: Flight to Zanzibar
Morning transfer to Seronera Airstrip for your flight to Zanzibar (approx. 2 hours). A driver meets you at Zanzibar Airport and transfers you to your beach resort. Afternoon at leisure.
Days 10–14: Zanzibar Beach
Five nights on Zanzibar's beaches. We recommend the north coast (Nungwi or Kendwa) for proximity to the best swimming beaches, or the southeast coast (Pingwe, Jambiani) for a quieter, more authentic experience. Stone Town day trip is highly recommended for cultural immersion before you leave.
How Much Does a 2-Week Tanzania Safari Cost?
For a mid-range private safari with comfortable lodges: $4,000–$6,500 per person. At the premium tier (luxury tented camps, beachfront hotel): $7,500–$10,000 per person. Zanzibar beach extension: $800–$2,000 per person depending on resort level. Internal flights (Arusha to Zanzibar): ~$200 per person. Park fees for 14 days: approximately $1,500 per person.
All Magical Tanzania safaris include private vehicle, your own guide, all park fees, accommodation, meals, and drinking water. International flights, visa, travel insurance, and personal expenses are additional.
Add Kilimanjaro to Your Trip
The most popular extension: climb Kilimanjaro before your safari. The three-icon trip — Kilimanjaro, Safari, and Zanzibar — is our most requested combination. A 7-day Lemosho or Marangu route climb followed by the Northern Circuit and Zanzibar makes an 18-day Tanzania adventure. See our Kilimanjaro climb options.
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Let us build your 2-week itinerary
Personal itinerary, zero obligation — just ask Kassim.