9 Days Ruaha National Park & Zanzibar Safari Itinerary

Experience the ultimate Tanzanian adventure combining thrilling wildlife encounters in Ruaha National Park with the sun-kissed beaches of Zanzibar. This 9-day safari offers an authentic taste of Africa’s wilderness, from herds of elephants and lions to the tranquil turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean. Perfect for couples, families, or solo travelers seeking a mix of adventure, culture, and relaxation.

Safari Highlights

• Game drives in Ruaha, home to Africa’s largest elephant population.

• Birdwatching and scenic landscapes in the Great Ruaha River region.

• Cultural visit to local villages and interactions with Maasai communities.

• Guided snorkeling and diving along Zanzibar’s coral reefs.

• Relaxation on pristine beaches of Nungwi and Kendwa.

• Sunset dhow cruise with drinks on Zanzibar’s coastline.

Belief Itinerary

We believe every safari should balance adventure, comfort, and authentic experiences. From heart-pounding game drives to serene beach sunsets, this itinerary ensures immersive wildlife encounters while giving you time to unwind and connect with local culture.

Day 1: Arrival in Dar es Salaam – Transfer to Ruaha

Accommodation: Ruaha Safari Lodge (Full Board)
Meals: Lunch & Dinner included
Activities:
Upon arrival at Julius Nyerere International Airport, you will be met by your professional safari guide. Embark on a scenic drive or domestic flight to Ruaha National Park, enjoying views of Tanzania’s rural landscapes along the way. On arrival at the lodge, settle in and enjoy a relaxing lunch. Later, step out for your first afternoon game drive, spotting elephants, giraffes, and antelope grazing across the open savannah. End the day with a sunset sundowner overlooking the Great Ruaha River, a perfect introduction to the sights and sounds of the African bush.

Days 2-4: Ruaha National Park Safari

Accommodation: Ruaha Safari Lodge (Full Board)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner included
Activities:
Spend these days immersed in Ruaha’s vast wilderness:

• Morning & Afternoon Game Drives: Explore the park’s varied habitats, from open plains to rocky hills and riverine forests. Look for elephants, lions, leopards, wild dogs, and abundant birdlife. Your guide will share insights on animal behavior, bush ecology, and conservation.

• Optional Walking Safaris: Experience the bush on foot with armed rangers, learning to read tracks, identify plants, and appreciate the smaller wildlife often overlooked from vehicles.

• Evening Sundowners: Conclude each day with breathtaking panoramic views of the savannah, enjoying refreshments as the African sun sets over baobabs and herds of wildlife.

Highlights:

• Close encounters with big game and rare species

• Bush photography and wildlife tracking

• Learning about Ruaha’s ecosystems from expert guides

Day 5: Ruaha – Zanzibar

Accommodation: Beachfront Resort, Nungwi (Full Board)
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner included
Activities:
After breakfast, transfer to the airstrip for your domestic flight to Zanzibar. Upon arrival, settle into your beachfront resort in Nungwi. Spend the afternoon relaxing on the pristine white sands, swimming in turquoise waters, or enjoying your resort amenities. Evening at leisure with a seaside dinner.

Days 6-8: Zanzibar Beach & Exploration

Accommodation: Beachfront Resort, Nungwi (Full Board)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner included
Activities:

Day 6: Explore Zanzibar’s cultural heritage with a guided spice farm tour, learning about exotic spices and their uses. Later, enjoy a walking tour of Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, discovering winding alleys, historic architecture, and vibrant markets.

Day 7: Spend a day snorkeling or diving at Mnemba Atoll, home to colorful coral reefs, tropical fish, and sea turtles. For those seeking relaxation, optional yoga or spa treatments are available at the resort.

Day 8: Embark on a traditional dhow sunset cruise, sailing along the coastline with refreshments on board. Capture the golden sunset over the Indian Ocean while enjoying the serenity of Zanzibar’s waters.

Day 9: Departure

Meals: Breakfast included
Activities:
After breakfast, you will be transferred to Zanzibar International Airport for your onward flights. Reflect on your safari adventure through Tanzania, from Ruaha’s wildlife-rich savannahs to Zanzibar’s idyllic beaches. End of Safari.

What’s Included

• Domestic flights: Dar es Salaam – Ruaha & Ruaha – Zanzibar

• All park entry fees and guided game drives in Ruaha

• Full-board accommodation (lodges and beachfront resort)

• Airport transfers and internal transportation

• Snorkeling equipment and guided excursions in Zanzibar

What’s Excluded

• International flights to Tanzania

• Travel and medical insurance

• Tips and gratuities

• Optional activities not listed in itinerary

• Beverages outside the meal plan

What to Pack

• Lightweight, breathable clothing for warm days and evenings

• Comfortable walking shoes and sandals

• Sun hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen

• Swimwear and beachwear for Zanzibar

• Camera with zoom lens and binoculars for wildlife spotting

• Reusable water bottle and insect repellent

• Travel adapter for electronics

• Light jacket for early morning or evening drives