Tanzania Itinerary: A Journey Through Wild Beauty & Historic Charm
Tanzania is a breathtaking destination, and my journey through the Serengeti was one of the greatest adventures I’ve ever experienced. From the historic streets of Stone Town to the untamed wilderness of the Serengeti, every corner of this country is filled with natural beauty, rich culture, and unforgettable moments.
Beyond Zanzibar’s historical and cultural significance, is a paradise for snorkeling, swimming, and diving, offering some of the most breathtaking marine life in the Indian Ocean. I visited the Tanzanian archipelago in November, during Zanzibar’s short rainy season, which I wouldn’t recommend if you’re hoping to fully enjoy the beaches, Jozani Forest, and Spice Farm. While I still had an amazing experience, the constant rain made some outdoor excursions less enjoyable. If you want to experience Zanzibar at its best, plan your trip between January–February or June–October, when the dry season brings warm weather and sunny skies, perfect for exploring Stone Town’s history and Zanzibar’s pristine coastline.
The Serengeti is the pinnacle of African safaris, offering some of the most incredible wildlife encounters in the world. The journey itself was just as thrilling as the destination. Our flight from Nairobi landed in Arusha, where we then boarded a small 8-passenger jet to Serengeti National Airport—an adventure in itself. As we soared over the vast plains, we caught glimpses of wildlife roaming freely below, building anticipation for the adventure ahead.
Tanzania is truly a destination that awakens the soul, where history, culture, and nature come together in the most extraordinary ways. Whether you’re exploring Zanzibar’s historic streets or witnessing the Great Migration in the Serengeti, this country offers adventure and beauty at every turn.
The Ultimate Serengeti Safari Experience
We stayed at the Four Seasons Serengeti, which provided round-trip airport transfers, ensuring a seamless experience from the moment we arrived. We were greeted by our driver in a traditional 4x4 Land Cruiser, complete with champagne and local treats—a perfect introduction to Tanzanian hospitality. The scenic drive from the airstrip to the resort was our first taste of the Serengeti, as we spotted gazelles, zebras, and even black rhinos along the way—an exciting preview of what was to come on our game drives.
Day 1: Arrival & Relaxation in the Savannah
Afternoon: Exploring the Property- The Four Seasons Serengeti is tucked deep in the savanna, seamlessly blending luxury with nature. It’s common to see wildlife roaming freely around the lodge, including baboons who aren’t shy about visiting your private terrace (so be sure to keep personal items inside!). Since Serengeti is best experienced during the day, we decided to spend the afternoon exploring the resort, unwinding by the infinity pool, and taking in the surreal landscape. The property offers five unique dining experiences, each showcasing the flavors of Africa and beyond.
Evening: Dinner at Nuru- For our first dinner in the Serengeti, we dined at Nuru, where every dish was a beautiful fusion of local and international flavors. The menu featured fresh ingredients, bold spices, and creative presentations, making it the perfect start to our culinary journey.
Day 2: Safari Adventure & Authentic Tanzanian Dining
Morning: Full-Day Safari at Serengeti National Park– We kicked off our first game drive at dawn, embarking on an 8-hour safari tour across the vast Serengeti plains. Our guide expertly navigated the park, helping us spot elephants, giraffes, leopards, cheetahs, and herds of wildebeest. One of the highlights was witnessing a lioness and her cubs resting under the shade of an acacia tree, an experience that felt like something straight out of a nature documentary.
Afternoon: Picnic in the Wilderness — The hotel packed gourmet lunches for us to enjoy on the go. Midway through our safari, we stopped in the middle of the Serengeti, surrounded by golden grasslands, to enjoy light bites and refreshments while soaking in the peaceful surroundings.
Evening: Dinner at Boma Grill — After an exhilarating day of wildlife encounters, we returned to the Four Seasons to freshen up for a special dinner at Boma Grill. This authentic African feast took place around a traditional open-air firepit, accompanied by a mesmerizing live performance by the Maasai Mara tribe. From grilled meats to classic Tanzanian dishes, the experience was both cultural and culinary, offering a deeper connection to the region.
Day 3: Safari Adventure Continues
Morning: Game Drive – The Search for a Male Lion —Determined to check off every member of the Big Five, we embarked on another early morning safari. This time, our goal was to spot a majestic male lion in the wild. With the help of our guide, we finally spotted one—a powerful lion resting atop a rock formation, surveying his kingdom.
Afternoon: Leisure & Lunch with a View — Back at the Four Seasons, we enjoyed a laid-back lunch with panoramic views of the Serengeti. The lodge’s infinity pool overlooked a watering hole, where we watched elephants and zebras gather for a midday drink—a truly surreal experience.
Evening: Final Dinner at Nuru— For our last night, we returned to Nuru, simply because the experience was too good not to repeat. The chef curated a special tasting menu for us, allowing us to sample a variety of Tanzanian and international dishes. It was the perfect way to end an unforgettable journey.
Final Thoughts: From the thrill of spotting wildlife in their natural habitat to the luxury of the Four Seasons Serengeti, this trip was a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a nature lover, or a traveler looking to immerse yourself in Africa’s beauty, the Serengeti should be at the top of your list.
Arriving at Serengeti Airport Strip
Our chariot awaits with refreshments and lite bites—a perfect introduction to Tanzanian hospitality.
A troop of Baboons
Four Seasons Infinity Pool overlooking the Savannah
A Lioness and her cubs resting under an acacia tree
An Elephant roaming the African Savannah
On a Safari Game Drive in pursuit to find the Big 5
Spotted a Male Lion watching his prey
Zanzibar Itinerary: A Coastal Paradise with a Storied Past
Zanzibar is a dream destination, known for its pristine turquoise beaches, tropical climate, and rich cultural heritage. At its heart lies Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where Swahili, Arab, Persian, Indian, and European influences blend seamlessly. Wandering through its narrow alleys, historic buildings, and bustling markets feels like stepping back in time.
Day 1: Arrival & Coastal Indulgence
Morning: Arrival & Spa Time —Our arrival in Zanzibar was greeted with rainy skies, but that didn’t stop us from making the most of our stay. We checked into the Park Hyatt Zanzibar at 7 AM and immediately kicked off the trip with a relaxing spa treatment—a must after long-haul flights or mid-trip exhaustion. Nothing like a full-body massage to recharge before a day of exploration!
After the spa, we enjoyed a late brunch at Beach House Zanzibar, conveniently located on the hotel property. The oceanfront setting paired with delicious tropical fruit and fresh seafood made for the perfect slow morning.
Afternoon: The Rock Restaurant Experience —after a relaxed morning, we got dressed up for our highly anticipated dinner at The Rock Restaurant, one of Zanzibar’s most famous Instagram spots, located on Michamvi Beach. Before visiting, I had only seen photos and assumed it was a scenic landmark, so I was surprised to learn it was a fully operational seafood restaurant! What makes The Rock so unique is its location—perched on a rock in the middle of the ocean. Depending on the tide, you can either walk through the shallow water or take a short boat ride to reach it. I ordered the lobster entrée, which was literally caught fresh from the water—a true ocean-to-table experience.
Evening: Sunset at Michamvi Beach & Maasai Experience —After dinner, we took a stroll along Michamvi Beach, where we got to hang out with the Maasai Mara tribe, learning about their culture and traditions. We also took turns capturing photos on the famous Instagram swing—keep in mind that there’s usually a line, so if you’re on a tight schedule, have someone hold your place while you take in the views.
Back at our hotel, we unwound at The Library and Veranda for a nightcap, enjoying cocktails and soft music with an ocean breeze before calling it a night.
Day 2: Spice Farms, Prison Island & Stone Town Tour
Morning: Spice Farm Tour – Zanzibar is often referred to as the "Spice Island," so a visit to a local spice farm was at the top of my list. Our morning began with an interactive tour, where we learned about the origins and uses of Zanzibar’s famous spices, including cloves, cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla.
The 2.5-hour tour took us through the lush plantations, where we touched, smelled, and tasted fresh spices and tropical fruits. The highlight? A fruit-tasting session, where we sampled exotic fruits while sipping on refreshing coconut water. At the end, we stopped by a local shop to purchase handmade spice blends and souvenirs to take home.
Afternoon: Prison Island & Stone Town Walking Tour – From the Spice Farm, we took a boat ride to Prison Island (Changuu Private Island), which is only accessible by water. Originally built as a detention center for rebellious slaves in the 1800s, the island later became a quarantine station during the yellow fever outbreak. Today, it’s a peaceful sanctuary, best known for its population of giant tortoises, some of which are over 100 years old! We even got to feed them and take pictures up close.
Afterward, we continued our journey into Stone Town, Zanzibar’s historic and cultural heart. The walking tour took us through the city’s narrow, winding alleys, where we saw intricately carved wooden doors, bustling markets, and historic sites. One of the highlights was visiting the largest live seafood market, where locals buy fresh fish, octopus, and lobster straight off the boat.
Late Afternoon: The Floating Bar Experience – Our next stop was the Floating Bar, a unique restaurant and bar built on a boat, offering panoramic ocean views. We opted for cocktails instead of a full meal, as we had dinner reservations back at the hotel, but it’s a great place to enjoy fresh seafood while floating on the water.
Evening: Sunset Dinner at Beach House Zanzibar– After an action-packed day, we returned to Beach House Zanzibar for one last dinner. The food was as incredible as ever, blending Swahili flavors with international influences. Sitting by the ocean with a cool breeze, candlelit ambiance, and the sound of waves, it was the perfect way to unwind and reflect on the trip.
Final Thoughts: Despite the rainy weather, Zanzibar still exceeded my expectations with its rich culture, stunning landscapes, and vibrant experiences. The history of Stone Town, the marine life of Prison Island, and the unique culinary experiences made this trip truly unforgettable.
If Zanzibar is on your travel list, I highly recommend visiting during the dry season (January–February or June–October) for the best experience.
📍 Need help planning your Tanzania trip? Let me know, and I’ll create a custom itinerary for you!
Sunrise view of boats docking in front of the Park Hyatt Zanzibar
Taking in scenic views of the Rock Restaurant from shore
Welcome to “Spice Island” also known as Spice Farm
Learned about the cultivation of the Nutmeg Spice in tropical regions such as Tanzania
Dhow Boat ride to Prison Island is a great way to see the island
Located on Prison Island, the Tortoise Sanctuary is home to a colony of Tortoise—the oldest being 196 years old