Are you thinking about booking a safari to see the amazing animals of Africa in 2023?
If so, have you considered combining your safari with a visit to the beautiful island of Zanzibar? This spectacular island forms part of Tanzania in East Africa, and its white-sand beaches, tropical landscape, rich cultural history and diving hotspots make it popular for visitors looking for beach and safari holiday.
Tanzania is home to some of the best safari destinations in the world, including the world-famous Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Crater, and Tarangire National Park, while neighbouring Kenya is home to Amboseli National Park and Masai Mara National Reserve —two more excellent safari destinations that offer unique and special experiences for both the first timer to Africa and the experienced traveler. Here is a closer look at why these six East African safari destinations would combine well with your Zanzibar vacation package.
1. The Serengeti National Park, Tanzania
The Serengeti is one of the most popular safari destinations in Africa and for good reason. With its abundance of wildlife and its wide-open plains, it’s no wonder that this national park is often referred to as the “crown jewel” of Africa’s national parks. The best time to visit the Serengeti is during the dry season (July to October) when the animals are concentrated around the waterholes and easier to spot. Don’t forget about the Great Migration, where incredible sights of a million-strong wildebeest, zebra and gazelle are what await during season!
A quick flight will get you from the Serengeti to Stone Town in Zanzibar.
2. The Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania
The Ngorongoro Crater is a unique safari destination because its wildlife density is one of the highest in Africa. With its dense forest and large lake, this ancient caldera is also one of the most picturesque places on the continent. The best time to visit the Ngorongoro Crater is during the dry season (June to September), although year-round game-viewing can be enjoyed here.
Take in a few days in the Serengeti before heading to the Crater and ending in Zanzibar.
3. Tarangire National Park, Tanzania
Tarangire National Park is often overshadowed by its more famous neighbors (Serengeti and Ngorongoro), but that doesn’t make it any less spectacular. This lesser-known park is one of the best places in Africa to see elephants and is also well known for its spectacular babobab trees. The best time to visit Tarangire National Park is during the dry season (July to October).
Tarangire is close to Arusha, where you will catch your flight to Zanzibar.
4. Amboseli National Park, Kenya
Amboseli National Park is one of Kenya‘s most popular tourist destinations and it is easy to see why. With its stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro and its abundant wildlife, Amboseli is a photographer’s dream come true. The best time to visit Amboseli National Park is during the dry season (June – September), although the summer rainfall allows for some spectacular scenery.
A quick flight will take you from Amboseli to Nairobi, where you can enjoy a direct flight to Zanzibar Island.
5. Masai Mara National Reserve, Kenya
The Masai Mara National Reserve is often referred to as “the jewel of Kenya’s wildlife viewing areas.” And with good reason! Its abundant wildlife and stunning landscapes make it one of Africa’s must-see destinations. The best time to visit the Masai Mara is during the Wildebeest Migration (July to October) when millions of Wildebeest and Zebra converge on the reserve in search of fresh grasslands, crossing the Mara River from the neighboring Serengeti.
Fly to either Arusha (Tanzania) or back to Nairobi to enjoy a quick flight to Zanzibar.
If your Zanzibar vacation needs more than just island paradise, white-sand beaches, and cocktails on the beach, consider combining it with a world-class East African safari in one of Kenya or Tanzania’s top destinations.
Chat to us now to start planning your 2023 safari.
