At Colours Africa Tours and Safaris, we specialize in creating seamless beach and bush holidays that connect Zanzibar with Tanzania’s world-renowned national parks. Whether you have two days or a full week, we offer carefully designed safari packages that suit every travel style and budget.
This guide highlights the top five safaris from Zanzibar, including recommended itineraries, destinations, and general price ranges to help you choose the perfect adventure.
How Can I Book a Mainland Safari Directly from Zanzibar
Many guests ask whether it is possible to begin a safari directly from Zanzibar without complicated travel arrangements. The answer is yes.
Daily domestic flights connect Zanzibar with Arusha, Serengeti, and other safari destinations, making it easy to enjoy a short wildlife adventure before returning to the island or continuing your holiday.
Our team handles every part of your journey, including domestic flights, national park permits, private 4×4 safari vehicles, professional guides, accommodation, and airport transfers. Simply leave your beach resort in the morning, board your scheduled flight, and begin your first game drive the very same day.
Below is a comparison of our most popular safari packages from Zanzibar.
Safari Packages from Zanzibar at a Glance
| Safari Package | Duration | Main Destinations | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tarangire & Ngorongoro | 2 Days | Tarangire, Ngorongoro | Short holidays |
| Serengeti & Ngorongoro | 3 Days | Serengeti, Ngorongoro | Big Five lovers |
| Northern Circuit Safari | 4 Days | Tarangire, Serengeti, Ngorongoro | First-time visitors |
| Big Five Safari | 5 Days | Tarangire, Serengeti, Ngorongoro | Wildlife enthusiasts |
| Luxury Fly-in Safari | 3–5 Days | Serengeti | Luxury travellers & honeymooners |
1. 2-Day Tarangire & Ngorongoro Crater Safari
This safari is ideal for travelers with limited time who still want an authentic Tanzania wildlife experience. It combines two of Northern Tanzania’s most famous parks within just two days.
Day 1 – Zanzibar to Tarangire National Park
Fly from Zanzibar to Arusha in the morning before meeting your professional safari guide. Continue to Tarangire National Park for an afternoon game drive through landscapes filled with ancient baobab trees and impressive elephant herds.
Day 2 – Ngorongoro Crater to Zanzibar
After breakfast, drive to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area and descend into the famous crater. Spend the day searching for lions, elephants, buffaloes, hippos, flamingos, and the endangered black rhinoceros before returning to Arusha for your evening flight back to Zanzibar.
Starting from:
- Budget: From USD 690 per person
- Mid-range: From USD 980 per person
Most packages include domestic flights, accommodation, park fees, meals, professional guides, and private safari transportation.
2. 3-Day Serengeti & Ngorongoro Safari
This itinerary offers an excellent balance between adventure and comfort. It is perfect for travelers who want to experience the Serengeti while keeping their beach holiday short.
Day 1 – Zanzibar to Serengeti
Fly from Zanzibar to Arusha before driving through the beautiful Ngorongoro Highlands into Serengeti National Park. Enjoy wildlife viewing along the way before arriving at your lodge.
Day 2 – Full-Day Serengeti Safari
Spend the entire day exploring the endless plains of the Serengeti. Search for lions, leopards, cheetahs, elephants, giraffes, and, depending on the season, witness the Great Migration.
Day 3 – Ngorongoro Crater & Return
Visit the spectacular Ngorongoro Crater early in the morning for outstanding wildlife viewing before returning to Arusha and flying back to Zanzibar.
Starting from:
- Budget: From USD 980 per person
- Mid-range: From USD 1,280 per person
3. 4-Day Northern Circuit Safari (Best Seller)
This is our most popular safari from Zanzibar because it covers three of Tanzania’s most iconic national parks at a comfortable pace.
Day 1 – Tarangire National Park
Fly from Zanzibar before enjoying an afternoon game drive among elephants, lions, giraffes, zebras, and ancient baobab trees.
Day 2 – Central Serengeti
Travel to the Serengeti while enjoying wildlife viewing along the route. Finish the day with an evening game drive before checking into your safari camp.
Day 3 – Serengeti to Ngorongoro
Continue exploring the Serengeti during a morning safari before driving toward the Ngorongoro Crater rim for overnight accommodation.
Day 4 – Ngorongoro Crater & Zanzibar
Descend into the crater for an unforgettable safari before returning to Arusha for your scheduled flight back to Zanzibar.
Starting from:
- Budget: From USD 1,180 per person
- Mid-range: From USD 1,550 per person
This itinerary is one of our most popular safari packages because it combines three of Tanzania’s most iconic wildlife destinations.
4. 5-Day Complete Big Five Safari
This extended safari allows more time for wildlife photography, relaxed game drives, and unforgettable experiences across Northern Tanzania.
Days 1–2 – Tarangire & Serengeti
Begin your adventure in Tarangire before continuing to Serengeti National Park for spectacular wildlife viewing.
Day 3 – Full-Day Serengeti Safari
Spend the day searching for the Big Five while exploring different regions of the Serengeti with your experienced guide.
Day 4 – Maasai Village & Ngorongoro Highlands
Travel toward the Ngorongoro Conservation Area with an optional visit to an authentic Maasai village to learn about traditional culture and daily life.
Day 5 – Ngorongoro Crater & Return Flight
Complete your safari inside the Ngorongoro Crater before flying back to Zanzibar in the evening.
Starting from:
- Budget: From USD 1,390 per person
- Mid-range: From USD 1,850 per person
This safari is ideal for photographers, couples, families, and honeymoon travellers.
5. Luxury Fly-in Serengeti Safari
After a direct flight from Zanzibar to Seronera Airstrip, you will stay in carefully selected luxury lodges or premium tented camps located within the national park. Daily private game drives, gourmet dining, and exceptional service create an unforgettable safari experience.
If you prefer maximum comfort with minimal driving, a fly-in safari offers the finest Tanzania safari experience.
Direct Flights
Fly directly from Zanzibar to a Serengeti airstrip in approximately 90 minutes, avoiding long road transfers.
Luxury Accommodation
Stay in premium safari lodges or luxury tented camps featuring spacious suites, excellent dining, private decks, and outstanding service.
Private Safari Experiences
Enjoy private game drives, bush breakfasts, sundowners, and personalized wildlife experiences with your own professional guide.
Starting from:
- Luxury packages: From USD 2,500 per person
This safari offers maximum comfort while minimizing travel time.
Which Safari from Zanzibar Is Right for You?
Choosing the best safari depends on your available time, travel budget, and personal interests.
- 2-Day Safari — Perfect for short Zanzibar holidays.
- 3-Day Safari — Excellent for Big Five wildlife viewing.
- 4-Day Safari — Ideal for first-time visitors.
- 5-Day Safari — Best for travellers wanting a complete Northern Circuit experience.
- Luxury Fly-in Safari — Perfect for honeymooners and luxury holidays.
Our travel consultants will help you choose the itinerary that best matches your schedule and expectations.
Helpful Tips Before Booking Your Safari
Planning ahead helps you enjoy a smooth and comfortable safari experience.
Book Early
Reserve your safari several months in advance to secure your preferred flights and accommodation, especially during the peak season.
Pack Light
Domestic safari flights have luggage restrictions, so soft-sided bags are recommended.
Wear Comfortable Clothing
Choose lightweight clothing in neutral colours along with comfortable walking shoes.
Carry Essential Items
Bring sunscreen, insect repellent, binoculars, a camera, sunglasses, and a reusable water bottle.
Travel with Experienced Guides
Professional guides improve your wildlife experience while ensuring your safety throughout the safari.
Confirm Your Bush and Beach Holiday
A safari from Zanzibar offers the perfect combination of tropical beaches and unforgettable wildlife experiences. Whether you prefer a short two-day adventure or a luxury fly-in Serengeti safari, our experienced team will create an itinerary that matches your interests, travel style, and budget.
At Colours Africa Tours and Safaris, we arrange every detail of your journey, including domestic flights, accommodation, park permits, private safari vehicles, and professional guiding, allowing you to relax and enjoy every moment.