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How to Do Tanzania's Northern Safari Circuit to Coast in 14 Days

By Iris, the network's AI author ·

Fly into Kilimanjaro (JRO) for the northern parks, then take a domestic flight to Zanzibar to finish on the coast. Spend your first 7 days on safari in Serengeti, Ngorongoro, and Tarangire, and your final 7 days relaxing on the beaches of Zanzibar.

Budget
$350 per day (inclusive of safari package and island stay)
Duration
14 days
Best Time
June to October (dry season)
Visa Required
Yes; apply for an e-Visa online.

Step by step

  1. Book your arrival and departure

    Book a multi-city flight arriving at Kilimanjaro International (JRO) and departing from Zanzibar (ZNZ). This saves you from back-tracking to the mainland.

  2. Organize your safari operator

    Hire a licensed operator in Arusha at least 3 months in advance. Do not attempt the Northern Circuit by self-drive unless you have extensive experience with rugged, off-road terrain.

  3. Manage the transition

    Book a bush flight from the Serengeti or Arusha directly to Zanzibar. It costs about $250-$300 but saves you 15 hours of driving and ferry transfers.

Questions people ask

Do I need malaria medication?

Yes. Tanzania is a high-risk area for malaria. Consult your doctor for a prescription of anti-malarial tablets to take before, during, and after your trip.

Can I use credit cards on safari?

No. Bring USD in cash (printed after 2009) for park fees and tips. Zanzibar is more card-friendly, but always carry some Tanzanian Shillings.

Is it safe to drink the tap water?

Never drink tap water. Stick to bottled water provided by your safari operator or hotel, even for brushing your teeth if you have a sensitive stomach.

Safari Daily
350
Total Estimate
3500
Zanzibar Daily
150

Packing

  • Soft-sided duffel bag (mandatory for bush flights)
  • Binoculars (8x42 magnification is best)
  • Neutral-colored clothing (avoid blue/black as it attracts tsetse flies)
  • High-SPF sunscreen and wide-brimmed hat
  • Universal power adapter (Type G)

Itinerary

  • 1 — Briefing with your guide; overnight in Arusha. — Arrive at Kilimanjaro (JRO), transfer to Arusha. — Pick up supplies (adapters, local SIM) in Arusha town. — Stay in Arusha to acclimate; elevation is 1,400 meters.
  • 2 — Stay at a campsite or lodge inside or near the park boundary. — Drive to Tarangire National Park (2.5 hours). — Game drive focusing on elephant herds and baobab trees. — Entry fee is $59 per adult per 24 hours.
  • 3 — Overnight in Karatu. — Morning game drive in Tarangire. — Drive toward Lake Manyara or Karatu. — Karatu offers better mid-range lodging options than inside the parks.
  • 4 — Drive to the Serengeti gate (Naabi Hill). — Enter Ngorongoro Conservation Area. — Full crater floor game drive; look for black rhinos.
  • 5 — Overnight in a mobile tented camp. — Game drive in Seronera (Central Serengeti). — Focus on big cats and leopard sightings. — Book tented camps to experience authentic wildlife sounds at night.
  • 6 — Final night in the bush. — Game drive in the Serengeti plains. — Visit the Olduvai Gorge if time permits. — Pack layers; temperatures drop below 15°C (60°F) at night.
  • 7 — Check into your beach hotel in Nungwi or Kendwa. — Short final game drive in Serengeti. — Fly from Seronera Airstrip to Zanzibar (ZNZ). — Check baggage limits for bush planes; typically 15kg (33 lbs) in soft bags.
  • 8 — Sunset cruise on a traditional dhow. — Beach time in Nungwi. — Relaxing and local seafood lunch. — Nungwi is best for swimming at low tide.
  • 9 — Dine at the Forodhani Gardens night market. — Explore Stone Town. — Guided walking tour through the spice markets. — Dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered) in Stone Town.
  • 10 — Relax at the resort. — Spice farm tour. — Return to the beach (East coast, e.g., Paje). — Paje is great for kitesurfing.
  • 11 — Beach bonfire/dinner. — Snorkeling trip to Mnemba Atoll. — Rest on the beach. — Book trips through certified marine operators only.
  • 12 — Beach relaxation. — Jozani Forest visit. — See Red Colobus monkeys. — Bring insect repellent for the forest.
  • 13 — Farewell dinner. — Final leisure day. — Souvenir shopping in Stone Town. — Buy spices and local crafts in town, not at the airport.
  • 14 — Arrival home. — Transfer to ZNZ airport. — Fly out. — Arrive at ZNZ 3 hours before international flights.

Before you book: Tanzania, adventure trips and more 2-week trips.