Tanzania is a beautiful country to visit, regardless of the season, and it is popular with visitors from the U.S., Europe, and South Africa.

Certain periods are more favorable for a safari in the best conditions. To know the best time to visit Zanzibar, visitors should take into consideration the following key criteria:

Weather conditions

The best time to visit Zanzibar for a beach and safari trip is during the dry season, from late June to October. The Zanzibar beaches are dry with no rain, and the summer months are ideal for the Great Wildebeest Migration river crossings and impressive wildlife sightings.

Zanzibar and Tanzania safari costs

Tanzania is a premier safari destination in Africa, thus incurring the more expensive costs associated with this.

There are multiple factors that can impact the cost of a safari in Tanzania, including the accommodation selected, trip duration, safari costs, tours, flight transfers from Zanzibar island to game reserves on the mainland, transfers, meal options, and additional activities visitors may request.

Travelers on a budget can reduce costs by booking their own flights, accommodations, and the best things to do in Zanzibar, as well as hiring a 4x4 to travel between the parks and reserves.

Organizing your safari

There are a number of different options available for organizing your Zanzibar holiday and Tanzania safari, including:

Tour operators

The biggest tour operators will offer safaris in Tanzania, where visitors can book a package that will cover their flight, transport, accommodation, activities, and food—an ideal option for those with no previous safari experience in preparing for such a trip.

Safari travel agencies

Visitors will often find dedicated safari travel agencies to be the best option for booking their dream safari. These agencies have many years of experience in booking safaris as well as multiple partnerships with local tourism networks and lodges and game reserves.

Travel agencies typically offer:

Local tour guides

Trips to must-see wildlife areas and parks

All transportation from Stone Town in Zanzibar to the game reserve

High-quality accommodation at reduced prices

Day safaris and full-day itineraries customised to your requirements

The cost of the service provided by these specialized agencies can be a bit higher compared to other options, but it is worth it given the quality and ease of the services provided.

DIY safari

Organizing your own safari is possible but only recommended for more experienced travelers and visitors on a strict budget.

Accommodation

Visitors typically have the choice between lodges, chalets, and campsites, as well as African tent camps, suites, and bedrooms.

Luxurious facilities are common, including swimming pools, restaurants, bars, spas, and terraces. Game viewings and plane transfers are organized by the accommodation providers.

Exotic bungalow safari lodges and outdoor flowers and greenery await guests on Tanzania safaris – Source: Grispb, Adobe Stock ©

Trip preparation

Entry

Travelers can fly to Zanzibar via the island’s main airport (ZNZ) if they are wondering how to get there.

A tourist visa is required to enter Zanzibar for U.S, U.K, Canada and EU citizens. Tanzania has introduced an ‘e-visas’ system through which applications can be submitted and approved online in advance of travel.

It is also possible to get a tourist or business visa for a single entry on arrival at main ports of entry to Tanzania, subject to the fulfilment of all immigration requirements. Visitors may also be asked to provide proof of their return journey.

A visitor’s passport must be valid for at least 6 months with at least one free blank page and and certain vaccinations may also be required to enter the country.

Health

The CDC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Zanzibar and Tanzania: Covid-19, Hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, rabies, meningitis, polio, measles, mumps and rubella (MMR), Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis), chickenpox, shingles, pneumonia and influenza.

Most safari parks are high-risk zones. The highest risk of transition is in the rainy season from November to May.

Further details on Zanzibar vaccine & covid info here.

What to pack

• The essential items to pack for your Tanzania safari include:
• Neutral coloured clothes
• Long-sleeved shirts protecting against the sun and mosquitoes
• Sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat and insect repellent
• Jackets and sweaters for early morning game drives
• Comfortable walking shoes