There’s a magic to Tanzania that’s hard to match.
Imagine waking up to the sound of elephants moving through the bush, then ending your day with your toes in the sand and a cocktail in hand as the sun dips below the Indian Ocean. That’s the beauty of a bush and beach escape – and in Tanzania and Zanzibar, it’s done to perfection.
This East African gem gives travelers the ultimate combination of raw, untamed wilderness and tropical island charm. Whether you’re on a Tanzania safari, relaxing at a luxury beach resort, or both, this is a holiday that ticks every box.
Ready to plan your dream escape? Here’s how to pair the best of Africa safari adventures with laid-back island life – and why you should talk to the team at Explorer Safari to help you book the most unforgettable experience for the whole family.
What is a sea or ocean safari?
If you’re new to the term, a sea safari or ocean safari is essentially a marine version of a traditional game drive. Instead of spotting lions and leopards, you’re scanning the turquoise waters for dolphins, whales, sea turtles, and colorful schools of fish. In Zanzibar, this might include a traditional dhow cruise at sunset, snorkeling vibrant coral reefs, or watching dolphins play in the shallows near Mnemba Atoll. It’s the perfect follow-up to a land-based Tanzania safari, offering relaxation and adventure in equal measure.
The Bush: Where Tanzania’s Wild Heart Beats
Elewana Tortilis Camp, Tarangire National Park
Start your journey in Tarangire National Park, one of Tanzania’s best-kept secrets. Known for its towering baobabs and vast elephant herds, Tarangire offers a quieter, more intimate safari. Elewana Tortilis Camp gives you front-row seats to the action, with eco-conscious tented suites that put you right in the heart of the wild.
Expert tip: Visit during the dry season (June to October) for peak wildlife sightings as animals flock to the Tarangire River.
Elewana Tarangire Treetops
For a safari experience with a twist, head to Tarangire Treetops, where luxury treehouses are built into ancient baobab and marula trees. Elevated above the ground, these suites offer panoramic views over the plains, and the chance to spot giraffes right from your balcony. The sunsets here are unforgettable, and the night game drives are a must.
Elewana The Manor at Ngorongoro
The Ngorongoro Crater, often called Africa’s “Garden of Eden.” This volcanic caldera is one of the best places on the continent to spot the Big Five – all in one day.
The Manor at Ngorongoro is all about old-world charm, with Cape Dutch-style architecture, roaring fireplaces, and manicured gardens. It’s perfect for families or couples looking for elegance after a dusty day of game drives.
Don’t miss: A picnic lunch on the crater floor surrounded by wildebeest, zebras, and maybe even a lion in the distance.
Elewana Serengeti Pioneer Camp
At Elewana Serengeti Pioneer Camp, you’ll be right in the middle of the Serengeti, home of the Great Migration – think wildebeest thundering across the plains and predators lurking nearby.
Set in the south-central Serengeti, the camp has a classic 1930s safari feel with canvas tents, lanterns, and plenty of charm. If you want to see dramatic wildlife encounters and feel completely off-grid, this is the place.
The Beach: Say Hello to Zanzibar
After days of early wake-up calls and game drives, it’s time to slow things down. And Zanzibar is just the place.
The Zuri Zanzibar Hotel
Found on the beautiful beaches of Kendwa, Zuri Zanzibar is the ultimate post-safari paradise. With no tides to worry about, you can swim all day in the turquoise sea. The hotel blends Swahili culture with modern luxury – think private bungalows and villas, open-air dining, and lush gardens.
Your days here can be as active or as relaxed as you like. Go for a sea safari to spot dolphins or snorkel among colorful fish. Or simply stretch out on the powder-soft sand with a good book and zero guilt.
Why Tanzania & Zanzibar Work So Well Together
- Smooth connections: It’s easy to fly from mainland Tanzania’s safari hotspots to Zanzibar’s beach resorts, often in under an hour.
- Contrasting experiences: The wild unpredictability of a Tanzania safari pairs perfectly with the laid-back island life of Zanzibar.
- Family-friendly: From treetop lodges to sandy beaches, a safari and beach holiday is fun, safe, and unforgettable for travelers of all ages.
Ready to Book Your Bush & Beach Getaway?
If you’re dreaming of a safari and beach adventure that combines exciting game drives, elegant lodges, and the soothing lull of the ocean, you’re in the right place. Whether you’re looking for the best safari from Zanzibar, an exclusive Tanzania safari, or a relaxing ocean safari to end your trip, Explorer Safari has you covered.
Let our team of Africa travel experts craft a journey that’s personalized, seamless, and packed with once-in-a-lifetime experiences. We’ll help you choose the best lodges, arrange flights and transfers, and offer tips that only insiders know.
Chat with us today to start planning your bush-meets-beach adventure. Because Africa isn’t just a place you visit – it’s a place you experience, from the savannah to the sea.
There is no connected account for this username
