Tanzania Safari and Zanzibar Beach Holiday: How to Plan the Perfect Trip
How to combine bush and beach: ideal trip lengths, transfers, where to stay on Zanzibar and the best time to go.
8 min read
Why combine safari and beach?
After early starts and dusty game drives, a few days on Zanzibar's white-sand beaches are the perfect way to unwind. The island is a short flight from Arusha or the Serengeti, making it easy to combine.
How long do you need?
| Total trip | Safari | Zanzibar |
|---|---|---|
| 8 days | 4–5 days | 3 nights |
| 10 days | 6 days | 4 nights |
| 12–14 days | 7–8 days | 5–6 nights |
Getting from safari to Zanzibar
Daily scheduled flights connect Arusha, Kilimanjaro and several Serengeti airstrips with Zanzibar, taking around one to two hours. We recommend ending with the beach so you can relax before your international flight home.
Where to stay on Zanzibar
- Nungwi and Kendwa (north) — swimming at most tides and great sunsets.
- Paje and Jambiani (south-east) — kitesurfing and a laid-back vibe.
- Matemwe (north-east) — quiet beaches close to Mnemba Atoll for snorkelling.
- Stone Town — one or two nights for history, culture and food markets.
Things to do on Zanzibar
- Stone Town walking tour (a UNESCO World Heritage Site)
- Spice farm tour
- Snorkelling or diving at Mnemba Atoll
- Sunset dhow cruise
- Jozani Forest to see red colobus monkeys
Best time to go
June to October and December to February offer the best combination of dry safari conditions and sunny beach weather. April and May bring heavier rain to the coast.
Plan your bush and beach trip
Every trip we plan is tailor-made. Share your dates, budget and interests with our Arusha-based team and we will send a personalised itinerary within 24 hours.
