The Itinerary Vault: Two Weeks in Tanzania Safari and Zanzibar
SERENGETI SAFARIS, ZANZIBAR BEACHES, EXCLUSIVE EXPERIENCES
For the people who don’t have time to open one more tab….Welcome to The Itinerary Vault.
This isn’t just a vacation. It’s an invitation—to connect more deeply with each other, with culture, with wonder. At Say Yes Luxury Travels, we believe travel should mean something. It’s not about checking boxes. It’s about presence, transformation, and unforgettable connection.
Imagine this: One moment, you’re tracking lions across golden Serengeti plains at sunrise, the cool air humming with life. The next, you’re sipping fresh-pressed sugarcane juice in a spice market by the sea, as the scent of clove and cardamom drifts on the breeze. That’s the magic of Tanzania and Zanzibar—where wild adventure meets tranquil escape in one seamless, soul-stirring journey.
Whether you're celebrating something big or simply craving something meaningful, this two-week itinerary isn’t just a trip. It’s a moment you’ll carry with you—forever.
TL:DR THE ITINERARY AT A GLANCE
KNOW BEFORE YOU GO
VISAS AND VACCINATIONS
Yes, U.S. citizens need a visa to enter Tanzania—and while you can get one on arrival, we highly recommend applying online in advance to avoid long airport queues or unexpected delays.
What to do:
Apply via the official Tanzanian eVisa portal: https://eservices.immigration.go.tz/visa
Select a single-entry tourist visa ($50 USD for most travelers)
If you’re traveling to more than one East African country (ex. Kenya), you can get the East Africa tourist visa instead to save time and money.
Processing can take up to 10 business days—so don’t leave it to the last minute
Print a physical copy of your approved visa AND carry a digital version (just in case)
Vault Secret by Say Yes: Use the Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) as your entry point if you're starting with safari—it’s less chaotic than Dar Es Salaam or Nairobi and gets you closer to the action.
WHEN SHOULD YOU VISIT TANZANIA?
Tanzania’s game viewing is great year-round, but the when can shape the experience dramatically. If your dream is witnessing the Great Migration, plan for:
June–July for river crossings in the Western Corridor
August–October for prime predator action in the Northern Serengeti
If you’re traveling outside these months, worry not. Resident wildlife (especially Big Cats and elephants) are active year-round in both the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater.
Vault Secrets by Say Yes: To avoid peak crowds and still catch epic wildlife: aim for early June or mid-November—you’ll get post-rain greenery and drama on the plains.
WHAT DO YOU WEAR IN TANZANIA?
Tanzania is warm and welcoming, but modesty is appreciated, especially in Zanzibar, which has a large Muslim population. Swimwear is perfect for resorts and beaches, but cover up in towns and markets. In Stone Town, dress modestly (leave your swimwear and resortwear for the beaches). For the safari pack layers as it can be chilly in the mornings.
If you're flying between safari parks or heading to Zanzibar, you’ll likely take a small bush plane—which means strict luggage restrictions.
What to do:
Soft-sided duffel bags only—hard-shell suitcases may be refused
Weight limit is usually 15kg (33 lbs) TOTAL including carry-on
Pack light and smart: one safari outfit per day, versatile layers, and easy resort wear
Laundry is available at most lodges, so no need to overpack
Vault Secret by Say Yes: Use packing cubes to organize safari vs. island outfits—you can leave beachwear packed away until Zanzibar and streamline your bag weight.
CASH AND CURRENCY
While high-end lodges accept credit cards, cash is still king in local markets, small shops, and Zanzibar taxis. The local currency is the Tanzanian Shilling (TZS), but USD is widely accepted—especially crisp, newer bills ($50s and $100s).
What to do:
Bring USD in small denominations for tipping and casual purchases. Also bring cash to tip your safari guide at the end
Exchange a small amount to TZS for local use—try banks or official bureaus in Arusha or Stone Town
Avoid airport currency exchanges—they charge heavy commissions
Don’t expect ATMs in rural safari areas (withdraw before you go)
Vault Secret by Say Yes: Many upscale lodges add a 5% card processing fee—cash tips can save you $$ and ensure your guide or staff get paid directly.
THE ITINERARY
DAYS 1–2: Arusha
You’ve landed in Tanzania! Step off the plane at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) and cue the warm breeze, big skies, and the thrill of being far, far away from your inbox. Your private driver is waiting (yes, you’re fancy now), and after a quick customs check…
SAY YES PRO TIP: Have your printed e-visa ready—it speeds things up, especially when you're low-key sweating in jeans.
You will ease into the rhythm of Tanzania with a few days in Arusha. Most travelers breeze through Arusha on their way to the Serengeti—but they’re missing something special. This laid-back town is more than just a jumping-off point—it’s your first taste of Tanzania’s warmth, artistry, and natural beauty.
Spend your first full day soaking up the calm before the wild. Start with a visit to Shanga, a heart-led social enterprise tucked inside the lush grounds of Arusha Coffee Lodge. Here, you’ll meet local artisans who create stunning glassware, textiles, and jewelry—entirely by hand and entirely from recycled materials. It’s a beautiful introduction to Tanzanian creativity, culture, and connection.
In the afternoon, make your way to Lake Duluti, a peaceful crater lake surrounded by forest. You can canoe along its glassy surface with a local guide, spotting kingfishers, herons, and monkeys along the shore—or simply take a nature walk along the rim. It’s quiet, reflective, and an ideal way to reset your internal clock.
Your evening will be spent enjoying a slow dinner and early night at a cozy lodge near the lake or en route to Lake Manyara—because the real adventure begins tomorrow.
DAYS 3–4: Lake Manyara
You’ll kick off the adventure with a scenic 4-hour drive to Lake Manyara National Park. After you settle into your lodge and reapply your SPF for the third time, it’s time: your first game drive. Lake Manyara is compact, but don’t let that fool you—it’s wildly biodiverse. Some people bypass Lake Manyara on their way to the Serengeti or Ngorongoro Crater, assuming it’s not “worth” the stop. Big mistake. This lesser-known gem is home to tree-climbing lions, flamingos, and some of the best birdwatching in East Africa—not to mention fewer crowds and a peaceful lakeside setting. A night or two here adds diversity and serenity to your safari circuit.You might see:
Flamingos doing their synchronized strut
Baboons with zero regard for traffic laws
Lions… in trees? Yes, tree-climbing lions are a thing here
You’ll end the day dust-kissed and grinning, glass of wine in hand by the firepit, under a sky that looks like a planetarium filter IRL. But, fun fact (or terrifying, depending on how you sleep): lions are actually not the scariest sound at night. That award goes to hippos. One night, I woke up convinced something was growling inside our tent. I woke me up Briana- if I’m terrified, we’re both terrified (sorry not sorry). Turns out it was a hippo... snorting. Loudly. Right outside. We saw the footprints right outside our tent the next morning to prove it. Needless to say, we didn’t get much sleep that night.
VAULT SECRET BY SAY YES: Bird nerds (who we love!), rejoice. Manyara is a hot spot for over 400 species. Ask your guide to help you spot the silvery-cheeked hornbill or a crested eagle. And if you're not jet-lagged? Night drives are allowed here—super rare in Tanzania.
Where to Stay
Ultra Luxe
Lake Manyara Tree Lodge: A total forest fantasy. This lodge is tucked deep into the mahogany trees inside the park, which means you’re basically sleeping in a luxury treehouse surrounded by wildlife.
Elevated suites with outdoor showers and dreamy tubs
Seamless indoor-outdoor design that melts into nature
Eco-luxe, high design, and totally private
If Tarzan had taste (and a good travel agent), he’d stay here.
Budget Friendly
Africa Safari Lake Manyara: A laid-back lodge that gives you safari feels without draining your travel fund.
Treehouse-style rooms with lake or escarpment views
Monkeys swinging by = your new alarm clock
Great base for exploring the park
Casual, charming, and surprisingly photogenic.
DAYS 5–6: Ngorongoro Crater
After a final breakfast with a view, it’s time to go full explorer. You’re heading deeper into the wild—and the drive is a highlight in itself. This is the day you realize safari isn’t just about animals—it’s about the land. You’ll pass:
Rolling green highlands and misty peaks
Coffee plantations (wave at your morning habit in its natural habitat)
Villages where Maasai herders walk their cattle across the plains like it’s NBD
Stop along the way to snap panoramic shots over the Ngorongoro Crater—a massive volcanic caldera that looks like it belongs in a sci-fi movie. One of the wildest rides of the trip? Our rhino search in Ngorongoro Crater. Our guide was calm, confident, and slightly mischievous—we were bouncing down tracks and scanning the horizon like we were on safari steroids. Totally safe, but definitely gave ‘hold on to your hat’ energy." As you approach Serengeti, the animal sightings begin to ramp up. We're talking:
Giraffes crossing the road like runway models
Elephants grazing near the horizon
Your first big cat sighting (cue dramatic music)
This stretch gives you a taste of what’s coming next—but without the crowds.
VAULT SECRET BY SAY YES: Keep your camera handy on the drive into Serengeti—this is often when people spot their first lion or cheetah, and you do not want to be the one fumbling with your lens cap.
Where to Stay
Ultra Luxe
Elewana The Manor at Ngorongoro
Old-world elegance meets safari cool at this Cape Dutch-style estate nestled in a coffee plantation.
Fireplaces, clawfoot tubs, and butler service
Afternoon tea like you're in a colonial romance novel
Just minutes from the crater gate
It’s giving “Out of Africa” with a touch of “Bridgerton.”
Budget Friendly
Ngorongoro Lodge, A Meliá Collection Hotel
Newly reimagined and sitting right on the crater rim—this is your luxe base for crater expeditions with a killer view.
Sleek, modern rooms with a warm safari soul
Infinity-edge views over the caldera
Elevated dining and sunset cocktails that hit just right
Come for the crater, stay for the spa robe and slow mornings.
DAYS 7–9: The Serengeti
You’ve got safari dust in your hair, an absurd amount of giraffe photos, and a growing obsession with spotting big cats. Welcome to THE SERENGETI.
Mornings start early (yes, painfully early—but worth it). You’ll head out just after sunrise with coffee in hand and a local guide who can somehow spot a leopard through tall grass from 400 meters away.
What to expect:
Herds of elephants, sleepy lions, and speedy hyenas
Fewer crowds (Eastern Serengeti = hidden gem)
Plenty of “WAIT, is that a cheetah??” moments
Afternoons are for napping, reading, or just sitting still and soaking it all in. No pressure. No WiFi. Just nature doing its thing. Or you can opt to stay out for the game drives and get a nap as your guide does their magic in driving around. I spent an embarrassing amount of time sleeping on the safari. Not because I was bored, but because it was so peaceful. And the bumping in the rode was like a cradle rocking lulling me to sleep. Meanwhile Briana chatted with the guide, enjoyed the vast savannah, and kept a look out for a cheetah.
Evenings mean sundowners by the fire, communal dinners under the stars, and the occasional baboon chaos. You’ll go to bed feeling like you’re living inside a David Attenborough doc—but with wine. And keep your eyes out at your lodge too especially early in the morning. We just missed a lion sighting outside our tent one morning—but we could literally see paw prints next to the canvas. Our guide even had to escort us back after dinner every night because the lions were that close. Casual.
Each day will be the same, but incredibly different. You’ll fall into a rhythm here—but don’t mistake routine for repetition. Each day in the Serengeti follows a rhythm—early morning game drives, afternoon rest, and evening exploration—but no two days are alike. One morning you might track a pride of lions, the next you’re watching giraffes grazing against the sunrise. You’ll visit different regions of the park, encounter new wildlife, and shift from rugged bush drives to a hot air balloon safari with a champagne breakfast. The wildlife, routes, and experiences rotate daily, keeping each moment fresh and unforgettable.
If you’re feeling extra (and honestly, when in Serengeti…), book the hot air balloon safari for Day 8 or 9. You’ll wake up at an ungodly hour, climb into a massive basket before sunrise, and float above the plains as the animals begin to stir. It’s silent. Golden. Surreal. And yes, it ends with champagne breakfast in the bush - what more could you ask for?
VAULT SECRET BY SAY YES: If you're visiting January–March, ask your guide to focus on calving season. Baby wildebeest everywhere. Lions nearby. High drama. Nature’s version of a telenovela.
Where to Stay
Budget Friendly
Tortilis is the kind of lodge that nails the balance—authentic bush camp vibes with just enough comfort to make it feel like a treat.
Spacious canvas tents with actual beds (bless)
En-suite bathrooms with hot showers
Solar-powered everything (off-grid but make it chic)
A mess tent for meals, lounging, and swapping safari stories
Don’t expect infinity pools or butlers—this is unfiltered wilderness, and that’s exactly what makes it unforgettable.
Ultra Luxe
Singita Serengeti House
This is glamping on another level—canvas suites that spill out onto the bush, complete with plunge pools and lantern-lit decks.
Floor-to-ceiling tented walls with serious views
Bathtubs facing the plains (yes, please)
Private butler-style service, minus the fuss
Perfect for golden hour lounging and feeling like a National Geographic cover model.
DAYS 10–14: Welcome to Zanzibar
Just when you think the trip can’t get any dreamier… you land in Zanzibar, where the beaches are actually that blue and the vibe shifts from “binoculars at dawn” to “barefoot and bronzed by 10am.” You’ll fly into Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ) and head straight for the coast. Zanzibar delivers serious island energy—with just the right hint of spice (literally).
Here are your must dos for your 5 days in Zanzibar:
Day 1 Settle In. After your flight from the mainland, you’ll arrive in Zanzibar and check into your hotel—think swaying palms, warm ocean breeze, and your own slice of paradise. Spend the rest of the day unwinding by the pool, strolling the sand, and easing into island time.
VAULT SECRET BY SAY YES: Pre-arrange your airport transportation. It makes getting to the resort much easy and there are many affordable options.
Day 2 Mnemba Island. You’ll spend your first full day in Zanzibar on the water with a snorkeling adventure—aka a full-day excuse to live your tropical best life. Expect:
Crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral gardens
Bright fish that don’t even look real
That post-snorkel nap on the boat (bliss)
Day 3 Mamas of Zanzibar Cooking Class. If you do one thing in Zanzibar - THIS SHOULD BE IT. You’ll visit a local home where the Mamas of Zanzibar teach you how to make:
Coconut rice the proper way (no shortcuts)
Swahili curries that make you question everything you knew about spice
Chapati that will ruin you for store-bought forever
It’s hands-on, soulful, and filled with laughter. You’ll leave full in every sense. They even dress you up and take you to a market to really understand how food is prepared in Zanzibar. It is grounded, connected, joyful- and yes DELICIOUS. You learn so much about Zanzibar and the culture that you won’t find anywhere else.
VAULT SECRET BY SAY YES: If you're exploring both the south and north of Zanzibar, Mamas of Zanzibar is the perfect pit stop. Located midway up the island near Stone Town, it’s an ideal place to break up your journey—offering a taste of local culture and warm hospitality before continuing north for those iconic white-sand beaches.
Then in the evening, head south for a sunset on the water. Zanzibar sunsets hit different—so naturally, you’ll board a traditional dhow and set sail as the sky turns gold. There’s music. There’s local wine. There’s a strong possibility you’ll get lost in the moment- plus no crowds. Lean in. You’ll finish the night on a private beach dancing by the bonfire until your heart is happy.
Day 4 Stone Town + Turtle Island. Spend one morning getting wonderfully lost in Stone Town—a UNESCO World Heritage Site full of:
Zanzibar doors (trust me, you’ll take at least 14 pictures)
Market chaos and cloves everywhere
Centuries of layered history—Arab, Swahili, Portuguese, and beyond
A boat trip to Turtle island (with yes plenty of turtles and history).
You’ll learn about the slave trade, explore former sultan’s palaces, and probably end up buying handmade soap you didn’t need but now love. I told myself I wouldn’t buy anything… then somehow walked out with spices, a hand-carved wooden bowl, and a new appreciation for bargaining at 95 degrees. Remember to dress conservatively when visiting Stone Town and bring your walking shoes.
VAULT SECRET BY SAY YES: If its your first time in Stone Town, we highly recommend a guided tour. This is a great option.
Day 5 Resort Mode Activated. Whether you’re posted up at a boutique beach lodge or a luxury villa with your own plunge pool, these two days are about slowing all the way down. No alarms. No safaris. No schedules.
Here’s what that looks like:
Sleep in. You earned it.
Order the fresh mango juice. Then order it again.
Get a massage. One where the ocean is the background music.
Lay horizontal for an inappropriate amount of time. Preferably poolside or with sand between your toes.
Stumble upon a few art markets for some additional souvenirs.
Where to Stay
Zanzibar White Sand Luxury Villas & Spa
This is the barefoot luxury you see in travel magazines and secretly save on Pinterest.
Private villas with pools and swaying palms
On-site spa, top-tier food, and epic sunsets
Sustainable design without sacrificing comfort
It’s giving eco-resort meets honeymoon energy (and we’re not mad about it).
Ultra Luxe
Baraza Resort & Spa
Tucked along the serene shores of Bwejuu, Baraza is Zanzibar luxury with a soul—elegant, intimate, and designed to make you exhale the second you arrive.
Think: Swahili-inspired villas with private plunge pools, a beachfront that feels like your own, and a level of service that’s quietly five-star.
Wake to the sound of the Indian Ocean, sip spiced coffee under a carved archway, and spend your day doing absolutely nothing—or everything.
It’s romantic, restful, and ideal for travelers who want a refined escape without the crowds.
WHAT TO SKIP AND WHY
The Turtle Aquarium in Nungwi, Zanzibar
While it sounds like a wholesome conservation effort, the turtle experience in Nungwi is more of a tourist photo-op than a sanctuary. Turtles are kept in overcrowded, unnatural enclosures where visitors are encouraged to touch and feed them—something that’s both stressful for the animals and ethically questionable. If you care about responsible tourism, skip this one and instead visit Mnarani Marine Turtle Conservation Pond, which is slowly improving practices—or better yet, support true conservation efforts through snorkeling and marine education tours.
The Maasai Village “Show” Tours
Many safari operators will include a stop at a Maasai village, but be aware that some of these visits are overly commercialized and feel more like performances than genuine cultural exchanges. Tourists are often ushered in and out quickly, expected to buy trinkets, and given rehearsed presentations rather than opportunities for real dialogue or learning. If you're interested in Maasai culture, ask your travel advisor for a vetted experience rooted in ethical tourism—one that supports the community and provides mutual value.
Rock Resturant
Skip The Rock Restaurant—yes, it’s perched on a rock in the ocean and yes, it looks great on Instagram, but the food is overpriced and underwhelming. You’ll wait ages for a table, only to be rushed through a mediocre meal—there are far better seaside dining experiences in Zanzibar that feel less like a tourist trap and more like a true island escape. Your Dhow tour will depart from the same beach, so you’ll still get the amazing views without the disappointment.
PACKING ESSENTIALS
Safari
Neutral-toned layers – Think khaki, olive, beige (yes, you will want long sleeves for early game drives)
Lightweight jacket or fleece – Mornings are cold. No one tells you this. You’re welcome.
Convertible pants or breathable trousers – Cute AND extremely functional
Comfortable shoes – Game drives = dusty, bumpy, and occasionally lion-adjacent (but you will be in the car for most of the time)
Wide-brim hat or cap – Bonus if it has a neck strap. Big Dad Energy (but please- no safari hats)
Sunglasses – Pack ones you’re okay getting dusty
Daypack or belt bag – For game drives and park visits
Binoculars – Optional but cool; your guide will usually have a pair they’ll let you use if you ask
Light scarf or wrap – Dust shield, sun protector, and plane blanket in one
SPF + bug spray – Go DEET-free if you’re fancy, but don’t skip it
Travel-size meds – Think motion sickness, anti-malarials, painkillers, tummy trouble tabs
Comfy lounge outfit for your lodge nights – You’ll want to be cozy fireside with wine
Pair of “just in case” gloves/socks – You’ll thank me at 6am
VAULT SECRET BY SAY YES: Everyone will tell you wear dark colors and don’t wear bright colors. What they don’t tell you is that you’ll be in the car 90% of the time- so it honestly doesn’t matter. I wore my hot pink skirt one day and was perfectly fine. One night we did end up in a swarm of Tsetse flies. We just closed the hatch - honestly no big deal. This also goes for your shoes- you don’t need special shoes or boots. Most of the time, I didn’t even have my shoes on since we were in the car. Just wear what is comfortable (and warm).
Zanzibar
Flowy dresses / resort fits – Linen, cotton, or sarongs—basically, breathable goddess energy
Swimsuits (yes, plural) – One for saltwater, one for the ‘Gram
Slides or sandals – Easy to kick off in the sand
Reef-safe sunscreen – Protect your skin and the fish
Cover-up or kimono – Useful at beach resorts and required at some beachside cafés
Dressier dinner outfits – For that last-night toes-in-the-sand moment
Stone Town outfit – modest but breathable. Shoulders and knees covered for cultural respect. This is non-negotiable
Extras You’ll Use Everywhere
Power adapter (Type D or G) – Tanzania and Zanzibar use UK-style plugs
Portable charger – Safari camps don’t always have charging points in tents
Collapsible tote or extra bag – For spice market hauls and beach gear
Silk sleep mask + earplugs – Whether it’s hippos or hotel neighbors, block it out
Small journal or notes app for memories – You will want to remember how you felt on that first lion sighting or dhow sunset
If this itinerary sounds like it was made for you….
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