Zanzibar Safari Tour: A Perfect Blend of Beaches and Wildlife

When people think of Zanzibar, they picture crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches, and romantic sunsets. But what many travelers don’t know is that this East African paradise also offers rich wildlife experiences. A Zanzibar safari tour uniquely combines the magic of the Indian Ocean with the thrill of African safari adventures.

Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach vacation or an exciting wildlife escapade, Zanzibar is the perfect destination. This guide walks you through everything you need to know to plan an unforgettable Zanzibar safari tour.

📍 Where Is Zanzibar?

Zanzibar is an archipelago located about 40 kilometers off the coast of mainland Tanzania in East Africa. The main island is Unguja, commonly referred to as Zanzibar, and its capital is Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

While Zanzibar is known for its beaches and spice farms, it’s also a fantastic base for combining coastal charm with nearby mainland safaris in Tanzania.

🦁 What Is a Zanzibar Safari Tour?

A Zanzibar safari tour typically refers to a travel package that includes:

• Beachside stay in Zanzibar

• Wildlife safari in a Tanzanian national park (like Serengeti, Ngorongoro, or Mikumi)

• Cultural or spice tours around Zanzibar

• Marine safaris such as dolphin watching or snorkeling with sea turtles

These tours offer the best of both worlds: marine beauty and land-based wildlife.

🐾 Popular Safari Destinations From Zanzibar

Most Zanzibar safari tours include short flights or ferry rides to the mainland. Here are the top destinations:

1. Serengeti National Park

• Travel Time: 1-hour flight from Zanzibar

• Famous For: The Great Migration, big cats, open plains

• Best Time to Visit: June to October (dry season)

The Serengeti is world-renowned for hosting over 2 million wildebeests, zebras, and gazelles during the Great Migration. If you want to see lions, cheetahs, elephants, and rhinos in their natural habitat, this is a must-visit.

2. Ngorongoro Crater

• Travel Time: 1-hour flight + 2-hour drive

• Famous For: Densest population of predators in Africa

• Unique Feature: A collapsed volcano with a 600m-deep crater

Ngorongoro is often called the “Eighth Wonder of the World.” You can spot all the Big Five here (lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo) in one game drive.

3. Mikumi National Park

• Travel Time: 1-hour flight from Zanzibar

• Famous For: Elephants, giraffes, and fewer tourists

• Perfect For: Day trips or short 2-day safaris

Ideal for those short on time, Mikumi offers a true safari experience without the crowds.

🐬 Marine Safari in Zanzibar

Zanzibar also offers thrilling marine safari tours, including:

• Dolphin watching in Kizimkazi

• Snorkeling in Mnemba Atoll

• Scuba diving around coral reefs

• Spice farm and forest tours in Jozani Forest (home to Red Colobus monkeys)

These water-based experiences add a refreshing twist to your typical safari.

🏖️ Top Attractions in Zanzibar

1. Stone Town: Walk through ancient alleys, visit the Slave Market Museum, and explore historic mosques and Omani architecture.

2. Nungwi & Kendwa Beaches: Perfect for beach lovers—clear waters, vibrant nightlife, and water sports.

3. Spice Tours: Discover why Zanzibar is called the “Spice Island.” You’ll smell and taste cloves, nutmeg, cinnamon, and more.

4. Prison Island: Visit giant tortoises and snorkel in turquoise waters.

5. Jozani Forest: Home to rare Red Colobus monkeys and lush mangroves.

🧳 Sample 7-Day Zanzibar Safari Tour Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Zanzibar, transfer to Stone Town hotel
Day 2: Stone Town city tour + Spice farm visit
Day 3: Beach relaxation at Nungwi or Kendwa
Day 4: Flight to Serengeti National Park, afternoon game drive
Day 5: Full-day game drive in Serengeti
Day 6: Optional visit to Ngorongoro or return to Zanzibar
Day 7: Dolphin tour + departure

💲 Cost of a Zanzibar Safari Tour

Prices vary depending on travel season, duration, and accommodation class:

Always confirm what’s included: meals, park entry fees, flights, transfers, guides, etc.

🕐 Best Time for a Zanzibar Safari Tour

• Dry Season (June to October): Ideal for wildlife viewing

• Short Rains (November): Fewer tourists, still good for safaris

• Green Season (December to March): Best time for birdwatching and marine life

• Long Rains (April & May): Best avoided due to heavy rains

✈️ How to Get to Zanzibar

Zanzibar International Airport (ZNZ) is well connected to:

• Dar es Salaam (20-minute flight)

• Arusha (gateway to Serengeti)

• Nairobi, Doha, Dubai, Istanbul via international airlines

From Zanzibar, domestic flights to national parks make safaris easy and time-efficient.

🛡️ Tips for Planning a Zanzibar Safari Tour

1. Book Early: Especially during peak seasons.

2. Vaccinations: Yellow fever and malaria prophylaxis are often recommended.

3. Pack Smart: Light clothing, sunscreen, insect repellent, binoculars, and a camera.

4. Choose Reputable Tour Operators: Look for companies with strong reviews and local expertise.

5. Stay Flexible: Weather and animal movements can affect plans.

🌍 Responsible Tourism in Zanzibar

Support eco-tourism and local communities by:

• Staying in locally-owned lodges or eco-resorts

• Hiring local guides and drivers

• Respecting wildlife and natural reserves

• Avoiding single-use plastics

• Buying handcrafted souvenirs from local markets

✅ Final Thoughts

A Zanzibar safari tour isn’t just a vacation—it’s a journey across worlds. You’ll walk ancient alleys in Stone Town, sunbathe on pristine beaches, dive into coral-rich waters, and witness Africa’s iconic wildlife all in one unforgettable trip.

Whether you’re a solo traveler, couple, or family, Zanzibar’s unique combination of culture, nature, and wildlife makes it one of the most rewarding travel experiences on the planet.