Tanzania is one of the rare destinations where you can seamlessly transition from a thrilling safari to a beach retreat. The country’s rich biodiversity, vast protected areas, and idyllic coastal islands make it a top choice for travelers looking for a complete African experience. From witnessing the Big Five to relaxing on soft, white-sand beaches, a combined safari and beach holiday ensures variety, depth, and balance.
With direct flight connections between mainland safari hubs and islands like Zanzibar and Mafia, you can maximize your time exploring and unwinding. These dual experiences make Tanzania ideal for honeymoon safaris, family vacations, or photographic adventures.
1. Serengeti Safari + Zanzibar Beach Bliss
Safari: Iconic wildlife viewing, Big Five, Wildebeest Migration (seasonal)
Beach: Nungwi or Kendwa for clear swimming waters, dhow cruises
Perfect For: Couples, honeymooners, and wildlife lovers
This is the classic safari-beach combination. After thrilling game drives and dramatic wildlife sightings in Serengeti National Park, head to Zanzibar for golden sunsets and luxurious beachfront living.
2. Tarangire & Ngorongoro + Zanzibar – Family Adventure
Safari: Elephants in Tarangire, Ngorongoro Crater’s dense animal populations
Beach: Family-friendly resorts in Kendwa and Jambiani
Perfect For: Families and multi-generational travelers
This itinerary mixes short, scenic game drives with kid-friendly experiences and cultural stops. It ends with relaxing beach days perfect for swimming, sandcastle building, and dolphin spotting.
3. Southern Tanzania + Mafia Island – For the Explorer
Safari: Remote Ruaha and Nyerere National Parks, birdwatching, river safaris
Beach: Mafia Island’s untouched coral reefs and whale sharks (Oct–March)
Perfect For: Adventure travelers, divers, and nature purists
Explore the untouched wilderness of southern Tanzania, then escape to Mafia Island for serene beaches, vibrant marine life, and authentic Swahili coastal culture.
4. Luxury Fly-In Safari + Mnemba Private Island
Safari: Private camps in Serengeti or Ngorongoro, exclusive wildlife drives
Beach: Private islands or high-end resorts in Zanzibar or Mnemba
Perfect For: Honeymooners and high-end travelers
Seamless air transfers, gourmet meals, and personalized experiences define this luxurious journey. Unplug from the world with world-class service in the bush and on the beach.
5. Budget Safari + Paje Backpacker Vibes
Safari: Group tours to Tarangire, Lake Manyara, or Serengeti
Beach: Affordable beach hostels in Paje with kite surfing and local eateries
Perfect For: Solo travelers, backpackers, and young couples
This is proof that you don’t need to spend a fortune to enjoy Tanzania’s wonders. Experience the wild with a budget safari and relax in Paje’s laid-back beach scene with local charm.
Pro Tip:
Why Zanzibar should be on your bucket list? Because Stone Town tells the island’s story from the sultans and spice traders to the fusion of African, Arab, and European cultures..
Zanzibar Island: Nungwi, Kendwa (calm tides), Paje, and Jambiani (active tides, great for kite surfing)
Mafia Island: Pristine and less crowded, ideal for diving
Pangani & Tanga: Hidden gems for those who want solitude and culture
June to October: Prime safari season with dry weather and excellent wildlife sightings
December to February: Great for combining safari and beach before the rainy season
March to May: Green season with lower prices but higher rainfall
With Explore Trekking Adventures, your transfers from safari parks to the beach are taken care of. We offer seamless fly-in options, private transfers, and detailed itineraries to ensure every minute of your trip is spent enjoying—not waiting.
Begin with the safari for adventure and finish with the beach for relaxation
Pack both lightweight safari clothing and swimwear
Check tide charts if staying on Zanzibar’s east coast
Choose lodges and camps that match your budget and style
Trust a local expert—that’s us!—to plan your route, accommodation, and timing
Pro Tip: Joining a group tour or hiring a trusted local guide is a great way to stay safe and enjoy your adventure.
Pro Tip:
Combine Zanzibar with a mainland safari to create a perfect “bush to beach” Tanzania itinerary.
Martin
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