From the Wild Serengeti to the Turquoise Indian Ocean
Few travel combinations match the satisfaction of a Tanzania safari followed by Zanzibar. The raw, wild intensity of the Serengeti and Ngorongoro, then the serene turquoise shallows and perfect white sand of the Spice Island. It is a contrast that rewards every type of traveller — families returning from an African adventure, couples celebrating an anniversary, solo travellers who have earned this moment.
We have been combining Tanzania safaris with Zanzibar since 1978. This guide covers everything you need to know: the logistics, the best beach areas, where to stay, what to do, and how many days you need.
Why add Zanzibar
One Operator. Safari to Sea.
We arrange your safari and your Zanzibar extension as one seamless itinerary. One operator, one point of contact, no handoffs to third-party hotel booking services.
The Perfect Contrast
Few experiences in world travel match the satisfaction of transitioning from the raw, wild intensity of the Serengeti — lion hunts, wildebeest crossings, the sheer scale of it all — to the serene turquoise shallows and white coral sand of Zanzibar. You have earned every moment of that beach time.
Seamless Logistics
We handle everything. Domestic flight from the Serengeti or Arusha to Zanzibar takes about 2 hours. We meet you at the airport with your transfer already arranged. No handoffs, no uncertainty — just one operator from summit to sea.
Year-Round Destination
While safari is seasonal, Zanzibar is a year-round destination. Even in the green season (March–May), you can find sunny days and calm seas. This means you don't need to time your safari around Zanzibar — Zanzibar works whenever.
Cultural Depth
Zanzibar is not just a beach. Stone Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site — a labyrinth of Arabic, Persian, Indian, and Swahili architecture. A spice tour reveals the island's role in the spice trade. The Dhow sunset cruise is pure magic. Zanzibar rewards the curious traveller.
How to combine
Safari + Zanzibar: How Many Days?
10–12 Days
First-time Tanzania visitors with limited time
Classic northern parks (Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Tarangire) followed by beach recovery. A tight but satisfying combination — you'll see the highlights of the northern circuit and still have time to unwind.
14–16 Days
Experienced safari travellers, those celebrating an anniversary
The sweet spot. A more complete Tanzania experience — southern parks and the Great Migration in the Serengeti — followed by a proper Zanzibar relaxation. This is the itinerary we recommend for serious safari lovers.
18–21 Days
Extended sabbaticals, milestone celebrations, Africa enthusiasts
The grand tour. Northern circuit, southern circuit (Ruaha, Selous or Katavi), possibly a Kilimanjaro trek — then finish in style on a Zanzibar beach. This is the trip of a lifetime, executed by one operator, start to finish.
Where to stay
Zanzibar Beach Areas: A Field Guide
Nungwi & Kendwa (North)
Best sunsets, lively atmosphere, easiest access from Stone Town
Highlights
Ideal for: First-time Zanzibar visitors, couples, groups
Paje & Jambiani (Southeast)
Kitesurfing, quieter beaches, authentic Zanzibari village life
Highlights
Ideal for: Active travellers, budget-conscious, longer stays
Matemwe (Northeast)
Romance, privacy, diving and snorkeling at Mnemba Atoll
Highlights
Ideal for: Honeymooners, couples seeking privacy
Stone Town (West)
Culture, history, UNESCO sites, one-night stop before or after beach
Highlights
Ideal for: Culture lovers, first-night or last-night stop
Kizimkazi (South)
Dolphin watching, snorkeling, diving, genuinely remote feel
Highlights
Ideal for: Off-the-beaten-path travellers, divers, naturalists
Beyond the beach
What to Do in Zanzibar
Mnemba Atoll Snorkeling
Half dayA 45-minute boat ride from Matemwe, Mnemba Atoll is one of the best snorkeling spots in the Indian Ocean. Crystal-clear water, green sea turtles, dolphin pods, and more than 1,000 species of fish. The snorkeling here is genuinely world-class — and far less crowded than you might expect.
Best in: Matemwe
Stone Town UNESCO Tour
3–4 hoursSpend a morning lost in Stone Town's narrow alleyways. The UNESCO-listed city is a living museum of Swahili, Arab, Persian, Indian, and European influences. Visit the House of Wonders, the Arab Fort, the Old Dispensary, and the bustling craft market. End at Forodhani Gardens for the famous Zanzibari pizza at sunset.
Best in: Stone Town
Spice Farm Tour
Half dayZanzibar is the 'Spice Island' for good reason. A tour of a working spice farm reveals how cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, nutmeg, and black pepper grow — and lets you taste them fresh from the plant. Many tours end with a Swahili cooking demonstration and a memorable lunch.
Best in: Stone Town / Rural Zanzibar
Dhow Sunset Cruise
2–3 hoursA traditional wooden dhow sailboat cruise at sunset is one of Zanzibar's most romantic experiences. As the sun drops into the Indian Ocean, you drift past the harbour, watching Stone Town's silhouette turn gold. Some cruises include a seafood dinner cooked aboard.
Best in: Nungwi / Stone Town
Jozani Forest & the Red Colobus Monkey
Half dayThe last remaining tract of Zanzibar's indigenous forest is home to the endemic Zanzibar red colobus monkey — found nowhere else on Earth. A guided walk through Jozani is one of the island's most unique wildlife experiences. Also look for Zanzibar leopards (rare and elusive), bushbabies, and 40+ butterfly species.
Best in: Jozani / Kizimkazi
Kitesurfing in Paje
From 2 hours to multi-day coursesPaje is one of the world's premier kitesurfing destinations. The shallow, flat water of the lagoon is perfect for beginners, while the open ocean conditions challenge experts. Several kiteschools offer lessons and rentals. Non-kitesurfers can paddleboard, swim, or relax on one of the most beautiful beaches in East Africa.
Best in: Paje
Before you go
Practical Information
Getting There
Flight from Serengeti or Arusha to Zanzibar: ~2 hours. We arrange all flights and transfers.
Visa
Tanzania tourist visa: $50 at arrival (US, UK, EU and most nationalities). Zanzibar is part of Tanzania.
Currency
Tanzanian Shilling (TSh). US dollars widely accepted in tourist areas. ATMs in Stone Town.
Health
No mandatory vaccinations for Zanzibar (yellow fever only if arriving from an endemic country). Tap water not safe — drink bottled water.
Best Time
June–October and December–February for driest weather. April–May long rains can disrupt travel.
Dress Code
Dress modestly in Stone Town (shoulders and knees covered). Beach areas are relaxed. Reef-safe sunscreen essential.
Common Questions
Zanzibar Safari Extension — FAQ
Should I add Zanzibar after my Tanzania safari?
How many days do I need in Zanzibar?
Which beach area is best?
Is Zanzibar safe?
When is the best time to add Zanzibar?
How much does a Zanzibar extension cost?
Beach Overview
Zanzibar Beach Guide
The complete overview of Zanzibar's beaches, Stone Town, and activities.
Safari + Beach
Tanzania Bush and Beach
The full guide to combining Tanzania's wildlife parks with Zanzibar.
Plan With Us
Custom Safari + Zanzibar
Tell us your safari dates and we will build a seamless itinerary.
Safari Then Sea — Let Us Arrange Everything
From your first game drive to your last swim in the Indian Ocean, we handle every detail. One operator, one invoice, no handoffs. Tell us your safari dates and we will build the perfect Tanzania + Zanzibar itinerary.