A Cultural Safari Tanzania Zanzibar
Overview
Culture-rich safari days, spice-island evenings in Zanzibar.
Embark on an eye-opening cultural safari through Tanzania and Zanzibar. Begin in Arusha, known for its vibrant coffee plantations, before exploring Tarangire, Lake Manyara, the Ngorongoro Crater, and the Serengeti. End your journey with a relaxing island escape in Zanzibar, complete with a guided tour of Stone Town and a local spice experience.
Highlights include visiting Shanga Village in Arusha, engaging with the Maasai in Tarangire, meeting locals in Karatu, and discovering the flavors of Zanzibar. Hand-picked properties like Arusha Coffee Lodge and Gibb’s Farm offer immersive stays that celebrate local culture and community. Expect luxury, meaningful encounters, and a seamless blend of safari and island adventure.
Highlights
- Game drives
- Cultural experiences
- Islands
- Wildebeest migration
Destinations
Tanzania | Zanzibar
Duration
13 days
Price
From $20 099 per person
When to go
June-February
Itinerary Overview
Experiences off the beaten track.
Crafted for the bold + discerning.
Day 9-13
Zanzibar
Off Tanzania’s coast lies Zanzibar, a spice-scented island steeped in Swahili culture. From Stone Town’s winding alleys to white-sand beaches and coral reefs, it offers the perfect blend of history, relaxation, and barefoot luxury.
Day 1
Arusha
A lively gateway to Northern Tanzania’s safari circuit, Arusha offers a blend of vibrant culture and scenic beauty. Nestled at the foot of Mount Meru and surrounded by coffee plantations, it’s the perfect pre-safari stop to reset and explore.
Day 2-3
Tarangire National Park
Famed for its giant baobabs and elephant herds, Tarangire is a hidden gem on Tanzania’s northern safari circuit. Its varied landscape and seasonal swamps attract wildlife year-round, making for rewarding game viewing with fewer crowds.
Day 4-5
Karatu
Perched on the edge of the Ngorongoro Highlands, Karatu is a charming agricultural town offering a glimpse into rural Tanzanian life. Its lush setting makes it an ideal base for exploring nearby parks and connecting with local communities.
Day 6-8
Central Serengeti
The heart of the Serengeti, this region is known for its endless plains and year-round Big Five sightings. Expect classic safari scenes, dramatic predator-prey interactions, and access to the Great Migration depending on the season.
Day 9-13
Zanzibar
Off Tanzania’s coast lies Zanzibar, a spice-scented island steeped in Swahili culture. From Stone Town’s winding alleys to white-sand beaches and coral reefs, it offers the perfect blend of history, relaxation, and barefoot luxury.
Day 1
Arusha
A lively gateway to Northern Tanzania’s safari circuit, Arusha offers a blend of vibrant culture and scenic beauty. Nestled at the foot of Mount Meru and surrounded by coffee plantations, it’s the perfect pre-safari stop to reset and explore.
Itinerary Breakdown
Day 1
Experiences
Enjoy Arusha’s ‘Bean-to-cup’ coffee tour on the working coffee plantation and visit the Shanga cultural village which boasts art workshops and curio shops. Other activities at the lodge include a visit to the Peaberries Spa offering massages and beauty treatments.
Day 1
Arrive
Arusha, Tanzania
Check-in
Arusha Coffee Lodge
Your cultural safari in Tanzania and Zanzibar starts on arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport near Arusha. A Ker & Downey® Africa representative will assist you through the airport and transfer you to Arusha Coffee Lodge. Located just a short distance from the vibrant town of Arusha, hidden among one of Tanzania’s largest coffee plantations, lies Arusha Coffee Lodge. Check into your Plantation Room and make yourself at home after your long journey. This afternoon you will start your cultural discovery at the Shanga Village which lies in close proximity to the lodge. Here, you will have the opportunity for an authentic cultural experience in the bustling atmosphere of a local arts and craft market. This evening, enjoy dinner at the lodge.
Accommodation
Arusha Coffee Lodge
Located just a short distance from the vibrant town of Arusha, hidden among one of Tanzania’s largest coffee plantations, lies Arusha Coffee Lodge. The property features 30 Plantations houses and is the perfect place to start or end your East Africa safari.
Experiences
Enjoy Arusha’s ‘Bean-to-cup’ coffee tour on the working coffee plantation and visit the Shanga cultural village which boasts art workshops and curio shops. Other activities at the lodge include a visit to the Peaberries Spa offering massages and beauty treatments.
Day 1
Arrive
Arusha, Tanzania
Check-in
Arusha Coffee Lodge
Your cultural safari in Tanzania and Zanzibar starts on arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport near Arusha. A Ker & Downey® Africa representative will assist you through the airport and transfer you to Arusha Coffee Lodge. Located just a short distance from the vibrant town of Arusha, hidden among one of Tanzania’s largest coffee plantations, lies Arusha Coffee Lodge. Check into your Plantation Room and make yourself at home after your long journey. This afternoon you will start your cultural discovery at the Shanga Village which lies in close proximity to the lodge. Here, you will have the opportunity for an authentic cultural experience in the bustling atmosphere of a local arts and craft market. This evening, enjoy dinner at the lodge.
Itinerary Breakdown
Day 2-3
Experiences
Visit a traditional Maasai Village for a cultural experience as you learn about Maasai traditions, practices, local culture and beliefs. The lodge offers game drives to Tarangire National Park, famous for their tree-climbing lions and large elephant herds. Other activities to be enjoyed include walking safaris and bush dinners.
Day 2-3
Transfer to
Tarangire National Park
Check-in
Lemala Mpingo Ridge
After breakfast on your second day you will meet your driver for your transfer to Tarangire National Park. Before your check-in at Lemala Mpingo Ridge you will enjoy your first game drive in Tarangire with the opportunity to spot large herds of elephant, buffalo and a remarkable concentration of big cats. For lunch, you will be treated to a packed picnic prepared by your guide. Head to your lodge for the night and check into your tented suite at Lemala Mpingo Ridge. Set on the top of an escarpment, the lodge boasts sweeping views of the Tarangire River and valley below and features private decks, sunken outdoor lounges and outdoor baths to be enjoyed at leisure. Begin your second day in Tarangire with a morning game drive, followed by a cultural visit to a local Maasai village. Learn about their unique cultural practices and knowledge of their environment.
Accommodation
Lemala Mpingo Ridge Lodge
Lemala Mpingo Ridge is set on the top of an escarpment with sweeping views of the Tarangire River and valley below. The 15 tented suites feature private decks, sunken outdoor lounges and outdoor baths to be enjoyed at leisure.
Experiences
Visit a traditional Maasai Village for a cultural experience as you learn about Maasai traditions, practices, local culture and beliefs. The lodge offers game drives to Tarangire National Park, famous for their tree-climbing lions and large elephant herds. Other activities to be enjoyed include walking safaris and bush dinners.
Day 2-3
Transfer to
Tarangire National Park
Check-in
Lemala Mpingo Ridge
After breakfast on your second day you will meet your driver for your transfer to Tarangire National Park. Before your check-in at Lemala Mpingo Ridge you will enjoy your first game drive in Tarangire with the opportunity to spot large herds of elephant, buffalo and a remarkable concentration of big cats. For lunch, you will be treated to a packed picnic prepared by your guide. Head to your lodge for the night and check into your tented suite at Lemala Mpingo Ridge. Set on the top of an escarpment, the lodge boasts sweeping views of the Tarangire River and valley below and features private decks, sunken outdoor lounges and outdoor baths to be enjoyed at leisure. Begin your second day in Tarangire with a morning game drive, followed by a cultural visit to a local Maasai village. Learn about their unique cultural practices and knowledge of their environment.
Itinerary Breakdown
Day 4-5
Experiences
Visit the cultural village of Mto Wa Mbo to experience Swahili culture and have the opportunity to taste traditional Swahili cuisine. The rest of your afternoon can be spent exploring the grounds of Gibb’s Farm and a variety of projects running on the property – from their artist in residence program, coffee brewing to a medicinal plant tour.
Day 4-5
Transfer to
Karatu
Check in
Gibb’s Farm
Enjoy your final breakfast at Lemala Mpingo Ridge before preparing for your transfer to Lake Manyara National Park and your final destination, Karatu. Lake Manyara offers unrivaled wildlife sightings and is specifically known for their unusual tree-climbing lions and large flock of pink flamingos who congregate at the shores of Lake Manyara. Enjoy a picnic lunch in the park and continue your journey to Gibb’s Farm in Karatu. After check-in you will visit the cultural village of Mto Wa Mbo and have the opportunity to taste traditional Swahili cuisine. The rest of your afternoon can be spent exploring the grounds of Gibb’s Farm and a variety of projects running on the property – from their artist in residence program, coffee brewing to a medicinal plant tour.
Accommodation
Gibb’s Farm
Gibb’s Farm is perfectly positioned in Karatu, on the outer slopes of the Ngorongoro Crater. The working farm features seventeen 1-bedroom cottages with outdoor showers, mosquito nets and modern interiors. The property also offers exclusive-use of two farm houses perfect for families.
Experiences
Visit the cultural village of Mto Wa Mbo to experience Swahili culture and have the opportunity to taste traditional Swahili cuisine. The rest of your afternoon can be spent exploring the grounds of Gibb’s Farm and a variety of projects running on the property – from their artist in residence program, coffee brewing to a medicinal plant tour.
Day 4-5
Transfer to
Karatu
Check in
Gibb’s Farm
Enjoy your final breakfast at Lemala Mpingo Ridge before preparing for your transfer to Lake Manyara National Park and your final destination, Karatu. Lake Manyara offers unrivaled wildlife sightings and is specifically known for their unusual tree-climbing lions and large flock of pink flamingos who congregate at the shores of Lake Manyara. Enjoy a picnic lunch in the park and continue your journey to Gibb’s Farm in Karatu. After check-in you will visit the cultural village of Mto Wa Mbo and have the opportunity to taste traditional Swahili cuisine. The rest of your afternoon can be spent exploring the grounds of Gibb’s Farm and a variety of projects running on the property – from their artist in residence program, coffee brewing to a medicinal plant tour.
Itinerary Breakdown
Day 6-8
Experiences
Enjoy game drives, walking safaris, photographic opportunities and gourmet dining experiences. In addition to these experiences, you can also book a sunrise hot air balloon ride or enjoy private bush dinners under the stars.
Day 6-8
Transfer to
Central Serengeti
Check-in
One Nature Nyaruswiga
Wake up for an early breakfast at Gibb’s Farm before meeting your driver for your transfer to the Serengeti National Park. Here, you will enjoy your first game drive in the Central Serengeti and a packed lunch before heading onwards to your luxury tented camp – One Nature Nyaruswiga. This elegant safari camp consists of just 14 luxury tents, spread across the open Serengeti savanna. Your two full days in the Serengeti National Park will allow ample time for game drives, abundant wildlife, walking safaris, photographic opportunities and gourmet dining experiences. In addition to these experiences, you can also book a sunrise hot air balloon ride or enjoy private bush dinners under the stars. An optional cultural activity is also available should you wish to visit another Maasai Village. Famous for its annual wildebeest migration, the Serengeti is a bucket list destination which promises great wildlife action.
Accommodation
One Nature Nyaruswiga
One Nature Nyaruswiga is an elegant safari camp located in the Central Serengeti. The camp features twelve luxury tents and two luxury family tents for an intimate safari experience without the crowds.
Experiences
Enjoy game drives, walking safaris, photographic opportunities and gourmet dining experiences. In addition to these experiences, you can also book a sunrise hot air balloon ride or enjoy private bush dinners under the stars.
Day 6-8
Transfer to
Central Serengeti
Check-in
One Nature Nyaruswiga
Wake up for an early breakfast at Gibb’s Farm before meeting your driver for your transfer to the Serengeti National Park. Here, you will enjoy your first game drive in the Central Serengeti and a packed lunch before heading onwards to your luxury tented camp – One Nature Nyaruswiga. This elegant safari camp consists of just 14 luxury tents, spread across the open Serengeti savanna. Your two full days in the Serengeti National Park will allow ample time for game drives, abundant wildlife, walking safaris, photographic opportunities and gourmet dining experiences. In addition to these experiences, you can also book a sunrise hot air balloon ride or enjoy private bush dinners under the stars. An optional cultural activity is also available should you wish to visit another Maasai Village. Famous for its annual wildebeest migration, the Serengeti is a bucket list destination which promises great wildlife action.
Itinerary Breakdown
Day 9-12
Experiences
Your time at White Sands can be spent however you see fit and includes a full day Stone Town and a Spice Tour on your second day – a unique cultural experience which should not be missed. Your days can be spent on the white sand beaches of Zanzibar, snorkeling or scuba diving or enjoying a variety of water sports on offer.
Day 9-12
Transfer to
Zanzibar
Check-in
Zanzibar White Sand Villas
On the 9th day of your cultural safari in Tanzania, enjoy your last breakfast at One Nature Nyaruswiga and begin your journey to your end destination – Zanzibar. Your driver will transfer you to the Seronera Airstrip where you will board your Auric Air flight at 11h00 with an estimated time of arrival of 14h20 in Zanzibar. A Ker & Downey® Africa representative will welcome you on arrival and transfer you to White Sands Zanzibar. Check into your one-bedroom, beachfront villa and unwind at your private swimming pool at leisure. Your time at White Sands can be spent however you see fit and includes a full day Stone Town and a Spice Tour on your second day – a unique cultural experience which should not be missed. Your days can be spent on the white sand beaches of Zanzibar, snorkeling or scuba diving or enjoying a variety of water sports on offer.
Accommodation
Zanzibar White Sand Luxury Villas & Spa
Zanzibar White Sand Luxury Villas and Spa is a family-owned property set on the East coast of Zanzibar on Paje beach. The luxury boutique hotel is a proud Relais and Chateaux member which boasts exclusive beach villas set on 1,500 square-metre private plots, deluxe rooms and Cinnamon rooms.
Experiences
Your time at White Sands can be spent however you see fit and includes a full day Stone Town and a Spice Tour on your second day – a unique cultural experience which should not be missed. Your days can be spent on the white sand beaches of Zanzibar, snorkeling or scuba diving or enjoying a variety of water sports on offer.
Day 9-12
Transfer to
Zanzibar
Check-in
Zanzibar White Sand Villas
On the 9th day of your cultural safari in Tanzania, enjoy your last breakfast at One Nature Nyaruswiga and begin your journey to your end destination – Zanzibar. Your driver will transfer you to the Seronera Airstrip where you will board your Auric Air flight at 11h00 with an estimated time of arrival of 14h20 in Zanzibar. A Ker & Downey® Africa representative will welcome you on arrival and transfer you to White Sands Zanzibar. Check into your one-bedroom, beachfront villa and unwind at your private swimming pool at leisure. Your time at White Sands can be spent however you see fit and includes a full day Stone Town and a Spice Tour on your second day – a unique cultural experience which should not be missed. Your days can be spent on the white sand beaches of Zanzibar, snorkeling or scuba diving or enjoying a variety of water sports on offer.
Itinerary Breakdown
Day 13
Day 13
Departure
Transfer to
Zanzibar International Airport
Your cultural safari in Tanzania and Zanzibar comes to an end on your 13th day. Enjoy your last breakfast at the lodge before your transfer to the airport where you will board your international flight home.
YOUR NEXT JOURNEY
Make this itinerary yours
Like what you see? Each and every trip we create at Ker & Downey® Africa is tailored to suit you. Get in touch with our Travel Concierge and let us create a unique adventure with experiences tailored to your precise liking.
Start planning your adventure.
Our experts are here to help.
June-October
|
9 DAYS
The Great Wildebeest Migration Safari in Tanzania
From
per person
|
13 DAYS
Gorilla Trekking, Ngorongoro Crater & Serengeti
From
per person
Dec – Mar
|
7 DAYS
Wildebeest Calving Season Safari
From
per person
All Year Round
|
16 DAYS
Ultimate East Africa Safari
From
per person
Year Round
|
10 DAYS
Natural East Africa Wonders Safari
From
per person
All Year Round
|
10 DAYS
Luxury Tanzania Honeymoon LuxVenture®
From
per person
All Year Around
|
12 DAYS
Tanzania and Zanzibar Safari
From
per person
15 June - 15 November
|
7 DAYS
Luxury Tented Safari in Tanzania
From
per person
All Year Round
|
10 DAYS
Tanzania & Zanzibar Family Holiday
From
per person
All Year Round
|
12 DAYS
Tanzania & Zanzibar Honeymoon Safari
From
per person
June-October
|
8 DAYS
Tanzania Northern Circuit Safari
From
per person
June-February
|
13 DAYS
A Cultural Safari Tanzania Zanzibar
From
per person
June-October
|
9 DAYS
The Great Wildebeest Migration Safari in Tanzania
From
per person
|
13 DAYS
Gorilla Trekking, Ngorongoro Crater & Serengeti
From
per person
Dec – Mar
|
7 DAYS
Wildebeest Calving Season Safari
From
per person
