Why Tanzania is the Ultimate East Africa Safari and Coast Destination
An East Africa safari and coast adventure in Tanzania offers an unparalleled blend of thrilling wildlife experiences and serene beach relaxation. From the iconic Serengeti wildebeest migration to the turquoise shores of Zanzibar, Tanzania is a top choice for East African safari tours. At Serengeti Wildebeest Migration, our East Africa safari tours combine the Serengeti wildebeest migration safari with coastal escapes, perfect for luxury and adventure seekers alike.
Top Tanzania Safari Destinations for an East African Safari
Tanzania’s national parks are the heart of an East Africa safari, offering world-class wildlife viewing year-round. Key destinations include:
- Serengeti National Park: Home to the Serengeti wildebeest migration safari, with dramatic Mara River crossings and abundant predators like lions and cheetahs.
- Ngorongoro Crater: A UNESCO World Heritage Site teeming with the Big Five, ideal for immersive game drives.
- Tarangire National Park: Famous for large elephant herds and over 750 bird species, perfect for dry-season safaris.
- Lake Manyara National Park: Known for tree-climbing lions and flamingos, a birdwatcher’s paradise.
These parks make Tanzania a premier destination for East Africa safaris.
Zanzibar: The Coastal Paradise After Your East Africa Safari
After the thrill of an East Africa safari, unwind on Zanzibar’s pristine beaches, a highlight of any East Africa safari and coast itinerary. Known for its turquoise waters, coral reefs, and historic Stone Town, Zanzibar offers:
- Beach Relaxation: Stay at luxury resorts like Zuri Zanzibar or budget-friendly beachfront hotels.
- Water Activities: Snorkel, scuba dive, or sail on a traditional dhow to explore the Indian Ocean.
- Cultural Experiences: Wander through Stone Town’s UNESCO-listed streets or visit spice farms.
Combining a Tanzania safari with Zanzibar creates the ultimate East Africa safari and coast adventure.
Best Time for an East African Safari and Coast Trip
The best time for an East African Safari depends on your preferences, with Tanzania offering unique experiences year-round:
- June–October (Dry Season): Ideal for wildlife viewing and the Serengeti wildebeest migration safari, with clear skies and Mara River crossings. Zanzibar’s beaches are sunny and perfect for post-safari relaxation.
- November–December (Short Rains): Lush landscapes, fewer crowds, and vibrant wildlife as herds move south. Zanzibar remains warm and inviting.
- January–March (Green Season): Witness the calving season in Southern Serengeti, paired with Zanzibar’s warm, clear waters for diving.
- April–May (Long Rains): Budget-friendly with lush scenery, ideal for photography. Zanzibar’s beaches are less crowded, though rain gear is advised.
July to September is peak for the East Africa safari and coast, combining migration action with ideal beach weather.
What to Pack for an East Africa Safari and Coast
To prepare for your East Africa safari and coast adventure, pack for both safari and beach environments:
- Safari Essentials: Lightweight, neutral-colored clothing (khaki, beige), a warm jacket for early mornings, comfortable hiking boots, sunscreen, insect repellent, binoculars, and a camera.
- Beach Essentials: Swimwear, flip-flops, lightweight cover-ups, a beach bag, and reef-safe sunscreen for Zanzibar.
- General Items: A reusable water bottle, soft-sided luggage (max 15kg), a small backpack, and a journal to record your Serengeti wildebeest migration and coastal experiences.
Pack light to accommodate both the safari and Zanzibar’s relaxed vibe.
How Long to Spend on an East Africa Safari and Coast Trip
For an ideal East Africa safari and coast experience, plan 10–14 days to balance wildlife adventures and beach relaxation:
- 7–10 Days for Safari: Spend 4–7 days exploring Serengeti, Ngorongoro, and Tarangire, focusing on the Serengeti wildebeest migration safari.
- 3–5 Days for Coast: Relax on Zanzibar’s beaches, with time for snorkeling, cultural tours, or simply unwinding.
Shorter trips (7–10 days) can include a 4-day safari and 3-day beach stay, while longer trips allow deeper exploration of Tanzania’s parks and islands.
Our East Africa Safari and Coast Packages
Our East Africa safari tours combine Tanzania’s top parks with Zanzibar’s beaches, offering options for all budgets:
- Camping Safaris: Budget-friendly campsites with communal dining and skilled cooks for an authentic East Africa safari.
- Lodge Safaris: Mid-range lodges starting at $180/night, with Wi-Fi and pools, paired with comfortable Zanzibar hotels.
- Luxury Safari Africa: Premium tented camps like Serena Hotels ($400–$2000/night) and Zanzibar’s luxury resorts like Zuri Zanzibar.
Packages include modern 4×4 Land Cruisers (2016–2022), English-speaking guides, park fees, meals, bottled water, airport transfers, and Zanzibar accommodations. Maximum 6 guests per vehicle ensure window seats.
Sample East Africa Safari and Coast Packages
Our packages highlight the best of an East Africa safari and coast. Popular itineraries include:
7-Day Safari and Coast Adventure
Price: From $3,500
Stops: Tarangire, Serengeti National Park (2 days), Ngorongoro Crater, Zanzibar (3 days)
10-Day Luxury Safari and Beach Escape
Price: From $5,500
Stops: Tarangire, Lake Manyara, Serengeti National Park (3 days), Ngorongoro, Zanzibar (4 days)
14-Day Ultimate East Africa Safari and Coast
Price: From $10,000
Stops: Tarangire, Lake Manyara, Ngorongoro, Serengeti National Park (4 days), Lake Natron, Zanzibar (5 days)
Classic Migration and Zanzibar by Private Vehicle
Price: From $12,500–$15,000 per person
Duration: 12 days
Stops: Focused on the Serengeti wildebeest migration safari, Ngorongoro, Zanzibar (4 days)
These itineraries balance the thrill of an East African safari with coastal relaxation.
The Serengeti Wildebeest Migration
The Serengeti wildebeest migration is the highlight of any East Africa safari, with over 1.5 million wildebeest moving across the Serengeti. Key moments include:
- July–September: Mara River crossings in Northern Serengeti, best from camps like Sayari Camp.
- January–March: Calving season in Southern Serengeti, with newborns attracting predators, ideal from Ndutu Safari Lodge.
- November–December: Herds move south, offering lush scenery, perfect from Serengeti Kati Kati Camp.
The Serengeti wildebeest migration safari is a must for any Tanzania safari.
Tips for Your East Africa Safari and Coast Adventure
- Book early for peak season (June–October) to secure spots for your East Africa safari and coast trip.
- Choose group safaris to share costs, ideal for families or solo travelers.
- Plan 10–14 days to balance the East African safari with Zanzibar’s beaches.
- Stay in migration-focused camps like Lamai Serengeti and luxury Zanzibar resorts for the ultimate experience.
With expert guides, seamless transfers from Kilimanjaro Airport, and curated Zanzibar stays, your East Africa safari tours will be unforgettable.
