The estimated time of arrival (ETA) from Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) to Arusha city is approximately 1 hour by road. The distance is about 50 kilometers (31 miles), but travel time can vary depending on traffic and weather conditions.
12 Days Tanzania Bush to Beach Classic
Tanzania Safari and Zanzibar Holiday: 12 Days
This trip is like two awesome adventures in one! First, you’ll see amazing animals in Tanzania’s famous parks. You’ll travel in a car and look for elephants, lions, and maybe even the big groups of wildebeest moving across the land. You’ll stay in nice places and eat good food while you explore these wild areas.
After seeing the animals, you’ll fly to Zanzibar, which is an island with beautiful beaches. There, you can relax, enjoy the sunshine, and maybe try some fun activities. It’s a chance to chill out after your exciting safari before you go back home with lots of great memories of Tanzania’s nature and Zanzibar’s lovely coast.
Safari Highlights
- See lots of elephants in Tarangire National Park.
- Witness the wildebeest migration in the Ndutu area (if it's the right time of year).
- Look for big cats like lions and cheetahs in the Serengeti.
- Go down into the Ngorongoro Crater, a place full of animals.
- Relax on the beautiful beaches of Zanzibar after your safari.
- Travel with a guide who will help you spot animals and get around.












Tour Summary

Duration
12 Days

Vehicle Type
4WD Safari

Tour Type
Private

Languages
Any Language
Places to Visit
Tour Itinerary
Day to day Best of Tanzania Safari Itinerary
Day 1:
Transfer from Kilimanjaro Airport to Arusha
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, your guide/driver will warmly welcome you and provide a short briefing about your safari. After the introduction, you will be transferred to your accommodation in Arusha, a journey of approximately one hour. This transfer allows you to take in the beautiful Tanzanian landscapes as you begin your adventure.
Once you arrive at your lodge or hotel in Arusha, you can relax and settle in for the night. This is the perfect time to rest after your journey and prepare for the exciting safari days ahead. Enjoy a delicious meal and a comfortable stay before setting off on your wildlife adventure.
DAY ACTIVITIES
- Transfer From Jro Airport
Arusha City Photos
OVERNIGHT & MEAL PLAN
- Location: Arusha City
- Room Type: Plantantion Room
- Meal Plan: FB – Dinner, Breakfast and Lunch
- It's Reviews: TripAdvisor Reviews
Travel Time
Day 2:
Arusha to Tarangire National Park to Karatu
On the second day of your safari, you’ll leave Arusha after breakfast and take a three-hour drive to Tarangire National Park. This park is very well-known for having a huge number of elephants, more than almost anywhere else. Once you arrive, you’ll go on an exciting game drive, which is like a tour in a vehicle to see the animals.
While exploring Tarangire, you’ll also enjoy a picnic lunch right inside the park. Besides the many elephants, Tarangire has a river that brings lots of animals, especially when it’s dry. You might even see lions that climb trees! The park is also home to other animals like wildebeest, zebras, giraffes, and many kinds of antelope. After a day of seeing incredible wildlife, you’ll travel to Karatu for the night and stay at The Plantation Lodge.
DAY ACTIVITIES
- Tarangire Game Drive
Tarangire National Park Photos
OVERNIGHT & MEAL PLAN
- Location: Karatu
- Room Type: STANDARD
- Meal Plan: FB – Dinner, Breakfast and Lunch
- It's Reviews: TripAdvisor Reviews
Expert Tip: Maximizing Your Tarangire Game Drive
As your Tanzania specialist, I recommend dedicating your second day to Tarangire National Park, a truly special place for wildlife. Focus your game drive along the Tarangire River – you’re practically guaranteed amazing elephant sightings here! Keep an eye out for other incredible animals and enjoy a fantastic picnic lunch within the park for a cool safari experience. We’ll then settle into the lovely Plantation Lodge in Karatu for the night.
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CONTINUE TO NDUTU NGORONGORO
Day 3:
Proceed to Ndutu Area for Game Drive
On day three, after you eat breakfast, you’ll travel to the Ndutu area. This special place is in the Ngorongoro conservation area and is part of the big Serengeti. There’s a lake there called Lake Ndutu, and even though it’s a bit salty, many animals drink its water.
In the afternoon, you’ll go on a game drive in Ndutu. If you’re visiting between December and April, you have a good chance of seeing lots of wildebeest because they gather on the grassy plains during that time. Besides the wildebeest, you can also expect to see elephants, many kinds of birds, and other animals that live in this area.
DAY ACTIVITIES
- Serengeti Ndutu Game Drive
- Ngorongoro Ndutu Wildebeest Migration Game Drive - Calving Season
Ndutu Photos
OVERNIGHT & MEAL PLAN
- Location: Ndutu — Ngorongoro
- Room Type: Safari Tent
- Meal Plan: FB – Dinner, Breakfast and Lunch
- It's Reviews: TripAdvisor Reviews
Wildlife Experience
Enjoy a third-day wildlife safari that includes a 4×4 game drive to see diverse African wildlife, including the Big Five
Travel Time
The drive from Karatu to Ndutu in a 4×4 safari jeep typically takes about 3 to 4 hours, depending on road conditions and weather. The route passes through the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, offering scenic views and potential wildlife sightings along the way.
Day 4 — 5:
Full Day Ndutu Game Drive
Days four and five are all about seeing animals in the Ndutu area. You’ll wake up early, around 6 in the morning, to go on a game drive. You’ll drive around Ndutu Lake and Lake Masek, hoping to spot big cats that might be hunting. You can also expect to see wildebeest, zebras, impalas, lions, cheetahs, and other wildlife. After your morning drive, you’ll go back to where you’re staying for a full breakfast.
Then, you’ll head back out into the bush for another game drive in the afternoon. Later, you’ll return for lunch and a rest. When it gets cooler in the evening, you’ll go on one more drive on the Ndutu Plains. This time, you’ll enjoy a “sundowner,” which is a drink while watching the sunset, before going back for dinner and to sleep.
DAY ACTIVITIES
- Serengeti Ndutu Game Drive
- Ngorongoro Ndutu Wildebeest Migration Game Drive - Calving Season
Ndutu Photos
OVERNIGHT & MEAL PLAN
- Location: Ndutu — Ngorongoro
- Room Type: Safari Tent
- Meal Plan: FB – Dinner, Breakfast and Lunch
- It's Reviews: TripAdvisor Reviews
Ndutu: The Best Place to See Wildebeest Calving and Predator Action
Ndutu is famous for the wildebeest calving season from January to March, when thousands of calves are born. It’s the best time to see predator action with lions, cheetahs, and hyenas hunting. The area is peaceful, less crowded, and sits perfectly between Serengeti and Ngorongoro.
Day 6:
Ndutu to Serengeti Central for Game Drive
On day six, after breakfast, you’ll take an exciting two-hour drive to the famous Serengeti National Park. This park is well-known for its wild cats and the amazing movement of the wildebeest. Your journey to the Serengeti will also be a game drive, so you’ll have chances to see animals along the way. You’ll also stop for a picnic lunch during this drive. You’ll end your day at a tented camp in the central part of the Serengeti.
DAY ACTIVITIES
- Serengeti Central Game Drive
Ndutu Photos
OVERNIGHT & MEAL PLAN
- Location: Seronera - Serengeti Central
- Room Type: Safari Tent
- Meal Plan: FB – Dinner, Breakfast and Lunch
- It's Reviews: TripAdvisor Reviews
Day 7:
Full Day Serengeti Central Experience
Day seven is a full day dedicated to exploring the Serengeti National Park. You’ll spend the entire day on a game drive across the huge open plains. This gives you plenty of time to try and see wild cats like lions, leopards, and cheetahs, which can sometimes be hard to find. If you’re lucky, you might also get to see the incredible wildebeest migration, a truly amazing natural event that happens every year in this special place. As you drive through the park, you’ll see different kinds of scenery, so make sure to have your camera ready to take pictures of the beautiful Serengeti and all the animals you see.
DAY ACTIVITIES
- Full Day Game Drive In Serengeti Central
Ndutu Photos
OVERNIGHT & MEAL PLAN
- Location: Seronera - Serengeti Central
- Room Type: Safari Tent
- Meal Plan: FB – Dinner, Breakfast and Lunch
- It's Reviews: TripAdvisor Reviews
Day 8:
Serengeti Central to Ngorongoro Crater Game Drive
On day eight, after you eat breakfast, you’ll enjoy a beautiful three-hour drive to the Ngorongoro Crater. This special place is like a safe home for all of Africa’s famous “Big 5” animals. When you arrive, you’ll drive down into the crater for an amazing game drive. Get ready to see stunning views and lots of incredible wildlife all around you.
During your time in the crater, you’ll stop for a picnic lunch at a well-known spot where hippos like to gather. You can take in the amazing scenery and the unique environment of this fascinating place before you continue exploring. After your game drive in the crater, you’ll head to a lodge in Karatu for the night.
DAY ACTIVITIES
- Enter Ngorongoro Conservation Area
- Game Drive In Ngorongoro Crater
- Serengeti Central Game Drive
Ngorongoro Crater Photos
OVERNIGHT & MEAL PLAN
- Location: Karatu
- Room Type: STANDARD
- Meal Plan: FB – Dinner, Breakfast and Lunch
- It's Reviews: TripAdvisor Reviews
Day 9:
Karatu to Arusha Airport for Flight to Zanzibar and Overnight
On day nine, after breakfast, you’ll travel to Arusha Airport. The time you leave will depend on when your flight to Zanzibar is scheduled. Once you arrive at Zanzibar Airport, someone will meet you and take you to your accommodation on the island. Get ready to spend the night in Zanzibar and to explore its beautiful beaches.
DAY ACTIVITIES
- Transfer To Arusha Airport
- Transfer From Zanzibar Airport
DAY FLIGHTS
DEPT: 13:00 FROM: Arusha Airport (ARK)
ARRV: 14:15 TO: Zanzibar Airport
Zanzibar Photos
OVERNIGHT & MEAL PLAN
- Location: Stone Town Zanzibar
- Room Type: STANDARD
- Meal Plan: FB – Dinner, Breakfast and Lunch
- It's Reviews: TripAdvisor Reviews
Expert Tip:
We recommend flying from Arusha Airport instead of Kilimanjaro International when traveling from Karatu to Zanzibar. Arusha Airport handles only domestic flights, so the check-in is quicker, there are fewer passengers, and no international migration process—saving you both time and stress. It’s also much closer to Karatu, which reduces driving time and avoids extra transfer fees. For a faster and more relaxed journey, Arusha Airport is the smart choice.
Day 10 - 11:
Free Day Enjoying Zanzibar
Days ten and eleven are your free days to enjoy Zanzibar however you like. You can choose to simply relax at your hotel, soaking up the island vibes. Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, you can pick from several optional activities that you can book once you’re there.
Some of the fun things you could do include a “Safari Blue” boat trip, a tour of Stone Town’s historical sites, snorkeling at the Mnemba Atoll, a visit to a spice farm, or even a dolphin watching tour. These days are all about doing what makes you happy on the beautiful island of Zanzibar.
DAY ACTIVITIES
- Optional Activities In Zanzibar
Zanzibar Photos
OVERNIGHT & MEAL PLAN
- Location: Stone Town Zanzibar
- Room Type: STANDARD
- Meal Plan: FB – Dinner, Breakfast and Lunch
- It's Reviews: TripAdvisor Reviews
Expert Tip:
While in Zanzibar, you can choose from amazing optional activities that can be booked on the spot. These tours offer a mix of adventure, culture, and relaxation. Top choices include the Safari Blue Tour for a full day on the ocean, Stone Town Tour to explore rich history, Mnemba Atoll Snorkeling for marine life lovers, the famous Spice Tour, and the Dolphin Tour for a chance to swim near wild dolphins. Each experience adds something special to your Zanzibar stay.
Day 12:
Zanzibar Transfer to Zanzibar Airport for flight back home
Day twelve marks the end of your amazing Tanzania adventure. Depending on when your flight is scheduled to leave, you will be taken from Zanzibar to the airport. As you say goodbye to this beautiful and unique island, you can hold onto the wonderful memories you’ve made during your time exploring Tanzania, from the bush to the beach.
DAY ACTIVITIES
- Transfer From Zanzibar Airport
We've got you covered
Our tours are top-notch but give you great value. The price we tell you upfront covers most of the costs for one person, like flights and all transfers.
Includes
- Park fees
- All activities (unless labeled as optional)
- All accommodation as stated in the itinerary
- A professional driver/guide
- All transportation (unless labeled as optional)
- All Taxes/VAT
- Roundtrip airport transfer
- All Meals (as specified in the day-by-day section)
- Air Ambulance Service by AMREF Flying Doctors;
Excludes
- International flights (from/to home)
- Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour
- Tips to your safari guide ($30-50 per day per car).
- Personal items (souvenirs, travel insurance, visa fees, etc.)
- Government imposed increase of taxes and/or park fees
- Alcohol drinks
- Visas and visa fees where relevant
- Additional activities not offered as scheduled by the accommodation
- Lunch and dinner in hotel (only before and after safari);
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Popular questions about Tanzania Safari 12 Days Tanzania Bush to Beach Classic
Typically, the package covers your accommodation in lodges, tented camps during the safari, and beach resorts. It also includes most meals, especially during the safari, and transportation like airport transfers and safari vehicles with guides. Park entry fees and scheduled activities in the itinerary are usually part of the deal, and sometimes internal flights between locations are included.
However, international flights are generally not included. You'll want to confirm the specifics with your tour operator, as inclusions can vary. Things like drinks, optional activities, and personal expenses are usually extra.
For the best wildlife viewing in the bush, the dry season (June to October) is ideal. Animals gather around water sources and vegetation is thinner. This period often coincides with good beach weather.
The shoulder seasons (late May/early June and late October/early November) can offer a balance of both experiences with fewer crowds. Avoid the long rainy season (March to May) for safaris.
Typically, international flights to and from Tanzania are not included in the base price of the "Bush to Beach Classic" itinerary. This allows travelers the flexibility to choose flights that best suit their departure location, schedule, and budget.
However, for seamless travel within Tanzania, internal flights connecting the safari areas with the beach destinations are often included in the package. Be sure to clarify with your travel specialist exactly what is covered in your specific itinerary.
For optimal wildlife viewing and photography, game drives during this itinerary are typically conducted in comfortable, open-roof safari vehicles. This design allows for unobstructed panoramic views of the landscapes and the animals in their natural habitat.
In some cases, for longer transfers between destinations or during adverse weather conditions, closed vehicles with pop-up roofs may be utilized. Your travel specialist can provide details on the types of vehicles used.
We use a mix of quality safari lodges and tented camps inside or near the national parks. All have private bathrooms, good food, and friendly service.
In Zanzibar, you’ll stay at a beachfront resort or hotel with a pool and sea view, depending on your budget.
You can see many animals like elephants, lions, giraffes, zebras, wildebeests, buffalo, and sometimes even cheetahs. The views depend on the season and time of year.
Yes, it’s great for families! We can adjust the safari to match the age of your kids. Many lodges offer family rooms and child-friendly activities.
The beach time at the end also gives families a chance to relax and have fun together after the safari adventure.
This tour includes all park entry fees, accommodation, full-board meals on safari, a professional English-speaking guide, game drives, and private transport. It also covers the domestic flight to Zanzibar and airport transfers.
In Zanzibar, you’ll stay at a beach hotel with breakfast included. Activities like snorkeling, cultural visits, and city tours can be arranged if you want.
Wear comfortable clothes and closed shoes. It might be a bit chilly in the morning, so a light jacket or sweater is a good idea.
Yes, Zanzibar is generally safe and peaceful. Locals are friendly and used to tourists.
Just follow basic safety rules like avoiding walking alone at night and keeping valuables in a safe place.
Yes! After landing, you enjoy a champagne toast and a delicious bush breakfast right in the Serengeti. It’s a very special part of the experience.
Yes! Zanzibar is famous for its coral reefs, clear waters, and marine life.
You can go snorkeling, diving, or take a boat trip to Mnemba Atoll or nearby islands. These activities can be arranged at your hotel.
Yes, after the balloon safari and breakfast, your guide from Seko Tours can continue with a full-day game drive in the Serengeti.
Pack light and comfortable clothes for warm days, a jacket for cooler mornings, and walking shoes. Don’t forget a hat, sunscreen, insect spray, and a camera.
For the beach, bring swimwear, sandals, and light clothes. A power adapter and small backpack are also useful.
Yes, this tour is flexible. We can adjust the number of days, parks, or hotels to match your interests and budget.
Want a romantic touch, a family focus, or more beach time? Just tell us, and we’ll customize it for you.
Yes, a domestic flight from the safari area (usually Arusha or Serengeti) to Zanzibar is included in the package.
We also take care of airport pickups and drop-offs, so everything is smooth from start to finish.
If your question is not listed, please contact us from here.