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Tour Overview
Join us on the 6-Day Budget Safari and Zanzibar Beach Combo, a private tour specifically designed for budget travelers who wish to experience both wildlife jaw-dropping adventures and relaxing beach time in Tanzania. This affordable trip includes private game drives and boat safaris in the expansive Selous Game Reserve (now part of Nyerere National Park), along with a beach holiday in Zanzibar to make it as memorable as possible. Great for solo travelers, couples, or small groups, the tour is conducted at budget campsites and lodges with wholesome meals prepared. Guests will receive personal attention from an English-speaking guide and explore Tanzania’s diverse ecosystems and cultures. Tracking elephants and hippos in Selous, then unwinding on Zanzibar’s white-sand beaches, are some highlights that showcase the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.
Selous Game Reserve, located at roughly 200 meters (656 feet) elevation, covers 50,000 km² and is one of Africa’s largest protected areas, celebrated for its steep natural beauty, rich biodiversity, and the powerful Rufiji River. Regarded as Africa’s largest reserve, Selous is home to elephants, lions, hippos, crocodiles, and over 440 bird species. It offers an uncrowded, authentic safari experience, including boat safaris that offer water-based wildlife encounters. An archipelago off the Tanzanian coast, Zanzibar is known for its azure waters and coral reef, as well as for Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The town depicts the Swahili culture, which thrives amidst spice markets and ancient architecture. The region also offers budget-friendly accommodation options such as tented camps in Selous or beach bungalows and lodges on Zanzibar, which allow travelers to experience the coastal charm and wilderness.
Perfect for wildlife spotting and pleasant beach weather from June to October, this itinerary can be adapted for travel throughout the year. From January to February, expect fewer crowds along with lush landscapes, while March to May boasts vibrant greenery and occasional rains. Daily travel is around 2-6 hours, seamlessly integrating with game drives, boat safaris, cultural immersion, and beach relaxation for a paced adventure. Core commitments to sustainability include TANAPA compliance, eco-sensitive waste management, and just labor policies for guides, camp, and local hosts. The trip is further enriched culturally with a private tour of a Selous cultural village and a Stone Town tour in Zanzibar. Budget accommodations and private game drives coupled with the wildlife and beach focus transform this tour into an affordable, authentic exploration of Tanzania’s wonders, tailored for those on a budget.
Day To Day Itinerary
The first day of your trip starts with a C6-Day Budget Safari & Zanzibar Beach Combo, which kicks off with a private pickup from your hotel in Dar es Salaam. This marks the beginning of your journey with a short 30-minute ride to the departure point. On this trip, you will be embarking on an adventure with a 250-kilometer drive in a 4x4 private vehicle for about 5 to 6 hours to the Selous Game Reserve. On the way, you will come across coastal views where you will be able to stop briefly for some snacks. This is the point you will reach by 12:30 PM while completing park formalities near the Selous entrance gate, which is located about 200 meters away. From here, you will head to a budget tented camp near the Rufiji River after completing all the required procedures. After reaching the camp, you can have lunch at a1:30 PM, which will include ugali, grilled vegetables, and fruits. After eating, you will be able to settle into your basic tents equipped with sleeping mats and shared toilets, and showers. Private game drives will start around 3 PM in Selous’s savannahs and woodlands. During these drives, you will be able to spot elephants, lions, and giraffes.
Be back at the campsite for dinner at 7:00 PM. The camp cook serves rice, stew, and fresh fruits. After eating, you can explore the stars and talk with the guide about Selous’s wildlife. You will fall asleep in your tent while listening to the sounds of the wilderness and dreaming about the next day’s adventures.
Accommodation: Budget tented camp at Selous
Meals: Lunch, dinner, packed snack
Activities: Private transfer to Selous with afternoon game drive, lunch, and communal dinner later, stargazing.
Start the day with an early breakfast at the camp around 6:00 AM with eggs, bread, and tea that will help you fuel a whole day safari in Selous Game Reserve. You will depart by 6:30 AM for a morning private game drive until 10:00 AM. During this period, you will explore the diverse habitats of the reserve, trying to spot leopard, buffalo, and over 440 bird species with the guide picking the best route for maximum viewing. There will be a scenic stop at 8:30 AM for a packed bush breakfast of sandwiches and fruits. At 10:30 AM, there will be a 2–3-hour private boat safari on the Rufiji River viewing hippos and crocodiles as well as waterbirds like the malachite while learning about river ecology. You will return to the camp by 1:30 PM for a hearty lunch at camp of grilled meats and vegetables.
Continue with the afternoon game drive from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM, spotlighting further opportunities to view elephants and rare African wild dogs. There will also be a stop at a scenic viewpoint for some pictures. Arrive back at the camp by 6:30 PM for a communal dinner at 7:00 PM consisting of ugali, fish stew, assorted fruits, followed by some campfire stories and stargazing. Afterwards, head to your tent ready for another day in Selous, cherishing the wildlife encountered throughout the day.
Accommodation: Tent camping in Selous
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner, and bush breakfast
Activities: Morning game drive, private boat safari, lunch, afternoon game drive, dinner, campfire storytelling, stargazing
Your day starts at 6:30 AM with a warm breakfast of eggs, porridge, and tea at the camp. This is followed by the last adventure in Selous, which commences with a private morning game drive between 7:30 - 10:00 A.M., where elephants, hippos, and different species of birds can be viewed. A guide will share conservation stories along the way. Your conservation tour ends at 10:00 AM. By 10:30 AM, a cultural village tour is scheduled. This includes a one-hour private tour where you interact with the Ndengereko community through basket weaving, dance, and a light snack with storytelling accompanied by local delicacies. You have the option to buy handcrafted souvenirs. The tour eendsand you depart Selous at noon for a drive to Dar es Salaam. You will be driving 250 kilometers for 5-6 hours with a stop for a packed lunch at 1:30 PM, including sandwiches and fruits. Check into a budget lodge around 6:00 PM. The lodge offers basic but comfortable accommodations.
Savor a private dinner featuring local dishes such as rice, beans, and fruits at the lodge, which will start at 7:00 PM. Take time to relax or journal. Go over the Zanzibar plan with your guide as you drift off to sleep, think about Selous’s wilderness, and look forward to the beach holiday.
Accommodation: Budget lodge in Dar es Salaam
Meals: Breakfast, lunch (packed), dinner, snack during village visit
Activities: Morning game drive, cultural village visit, private transfer to Dar es Salaam, picnic lunch, private dinner, downtime
Start the day with breakfast at the lodge at 7:00 AM, which includes eggs, toast, and coffee, getting ready for the journey to Zanzibar. Departure is at 8:00 AM for a private transfer to Dar es Salaam port, where we take a ferry to Zanzibar. The 30-minute ferry ride (departure time may vary) will have us arrive in Zanzibar by 11:00 AM. After this, enjoy a 1-hour private transfer to a budget beach bungalow/lodge at Nungwi or Kendwa. While I stayed there, I remembered the clean and comfortable room, which had basic amenities alongside direct beach access. At 12:30 PM, we had d light lunch at the lodge, which included fruits, rice, and seafood. From 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM, I relaxed on the white-sand beach, swimming in the beautiful turquoise water, and enjoying the tropical vibes. During this time, my guide told me about the coastal ecosystem of Zanzibar and suggested some optional activities like snorkeling.
Head back to the lodge at 6:30 PM for dinner, which includes grilled fish, coconut rice, and some tropical fruits. After dinner, you can spend the evening stargazing or enjoying the ocean breeze. After taking in the tranquility of the beach, you feel ready to explore the culture within Stone Town, where you can rest in your room.
Accommodation: Budget beach bungalow or lodge in Zanzibar
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Activities: Private transportation to the Zanzibar ferry, transfer from the beach lodge, transportation by ferry to Zanzibar, beach relaxation, lunch and dinner at the lodge, and stargazing.
Start your day with a lodge breakfast of pancakes, fruit, and coffee at 7:30 AM. This will keep you energized for the cultural activities in the day. Set off at 8:30 AM for a one-hour private transfer to Stone Town, where you begin a private guided tour from 9:30 AM to 12:00 PM lasting around two to three hours. The tour will cover the UNESCO-listed historic core, spice markets, Old Fort, and the House of Wonders. You will learn about the Swahili culture and Arab influence, as well as Zanzibar’s spice trade history. There will also be chances to buy spices and local crafts. After the tour, enjoy a light Zanzibari biryani and fruits at a local café for lunch at 12:30 PM. You will be back at the beach lodge by 2 PM. Spend the afternoon from 2:30 PM to 5:30 PM relaxing in the water, sunbathing, or reading on the shore. Your guide provides information about Zanzibar’s marine conservation programs and offers optional dhow cruise sightseeing tours. Join us at the Lodge for a delightful dinner at 6:30 PM, where you can enjoy our seafood curry, rice, and tropical fruits. Reflect on the day’s cultural activities during a relaxed evening walk. After dinner, stroll along the coast of Zanzibar before heading to your room to sleep, gently hugging the memories of the island as you prepare for your departure.
Accommodation: Beach lodge or bungalow in Zanzibar
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Activities: Private transfer to Stone Town for a guided tour and lunch at a local café, private transfer to beach lodge, beach rest, dinner at lodge, and downtime.
The last day begins with a leisurely breakfast at the lodge, which features eggs, fruits, and coffee at 7:30 AM. From 8:00 AM to 11:00 AM, guests may swim, stroll along the shore, relax on the beach, or take a guided walk with a local guide for insights and optional add-on activities. Enjoy a light lunch from the lodge at 11:30 AM, serving sandwiches and tropical fruits. Check out by 12:30 for a private 1-hour transfer to Zanzibar International Airport, arriving by 1:30 PM to catch a flight or ferry back to Dar es Salaam (flight/ferry not included). End the tour with memories of the elephants of Selous, boat safaris on the Rufiji River, the beaches of Zanzibar, and Stone Town. Completed the trip with a budget-friendly immersive adventure designed for relaxation and discovery.
Accommodation: None (departure from Zanzibar)
Meals: Breakfast, lunch
Activities: Beach relaxation, lodge lunch, private transfer to Zanzibar airport
Includes And Excludes
Includes And Excludes
- Private 4x4 game drives in Selous with a pop-up roof vehicle
- Private boat safari on the Rufiji River
- Budget accommodations (budget tented camps in Selous, budget lodge in Dar es Salaam, budget beach bungalows or lodges in Zanzibar)
- All meals during the safari (6 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 5 dinners)
- Park entrance and conservation fees for Selous
- Private transfers (Dar es Salaam to Selous, Dar es Salaam to Zanzibar ferry, Zanzibar airport transfers)
- Private guided cultural village visit near Selous
- Guided Stone Town cultural tour in Zanzibar
- Services of a dedicated, certified English-speaking guide
- Purified drinking water during game drives and boat safaris
- Basic camping equipment (tents, sleeping mats)
- International flights to/from Tanzania
- Domestic flights (Zanzibar to Dar es Salaam or Arusha)
- Tanzanian visa fees
- Mandatory travel insurance
- Personal expenses (e.g., souvenirs, gratuities for guide/staff)
- Alcoholic beverages and soft drinks
- Meals not specified (e.g., lunch on Day 1 in Dar es Salaam)
- Optional activities (e.g., snorkeling, spice tours, hot-air balloon safari)
- Sleeping bags (bring your own or rent locally at additional cost)
- Personal toiletries, beach gear, and travel equipment
Prices
| Dates | 2 People | 4 people | 6 people | 8 people | 10 people |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| High Season | $ 2,366 | $ 1,856 | $ 1,772 | $ 1,856 | $ 1,832 |
| Low season | $ 2,266 | $ 1,756 | $ 1,672 | $ 1,756 | $ 1,732 |
Price per person
FAQs about 6-Day Budget Safari and Zanzibar Beach Combo
1. What is included in the 6-Day Budget Safari & Zanzibar Beach Combo?
The package includes private 4x4 game drives, a boat safari in Selous, budget accommodations (tented camps in Selous, lodge in Dar es Salaam, beach bungalows/lodges in Zanzibar), all meals during the safari (6 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 5 dinners), park fees, private transfers, a cultural village visit, a Stone Town tour, a certified guide, purified water, and basic camping equipment. Exclusions include international/domestic flights, visas, travel insurance, personal expenses, alcoholic beverages, unspecified meals, sleeping bags, and optional activities.
2. Is this tour suitable for travelers new to safaris or beach holidays?
Yes, this private tour is ideal for first-time travelers, offering a personalized experience with a dedicated guide, safe game drives and boat safaris in Selous, and a relaxing beach holiday in Zanzibar, ensuring an engaging, comfortable introduction to Tanzania’s wildlife and coastal charm.
3. What is the best time to book this safari and beach combo?
The dry season (June to October) is optimal for wildlife viewing in Selous with clear skies and pleasant beach weather in Zanzibar. The short dry season (January to February) offers lush landscapes and fewer crowds, while the wet season (March to May) may involve muddy roads but is feasible with preparation.
4. What are the accommodations like on this budget tour?
Accommodations include budget tented camps in Selous with basic tents, sleeping mats, and shared facilities, a budget lodge in Dar es Salaam with clean, comfortable rooms, and budget beach bungalows or lodges in Zanzibar with basic amenities, ensuring affordability and an authentic experience.
5. How does this package ensure sustainable and authentic cultural engagement?
The cultural village visit and Stone Town tour are led by local hosts, providing authentic insights and supporting livelihoods through craft purchases, conducted respectfully. Safari operations adhere to TANAPA regulations, minimizing impact through waste management, while guides and staff receive fair wages, reflecting ethical tourism.
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Reviews
My safari with Visit to Tanzania Destination was absolutely unforgettable! The team organized a seamless 5-day adventure through Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater. Our guide, Juma, was incredibly knowledgeable, spotting wildlife I’d never have seen on my own. The lodges were comfortable, and the food was fantastic. I’m already planning my next trip to climb Kilimanjaro with them! Highly recommend for anyone wanting an authentic Tanzanian experience.
Zanzibar was a dream come true thanks to Visit to Tanzania Destination! The beaches in Stone Town were stunning, and the spice tour they arranged was a highlight – so much history and flavor! Everything was perfectly planned, from transfers to the resort to snorkeling trips. The staff was friendly and attentive, making us feel so welcome. I’ll be telling all my friends to book with them!
Climbing Kilimanjaro was the adventure of a lifetime, and Visit to Tanzania Destination made it happen flawlessly. The guides were professional. & equipment was top-notch, and the porters were amazing—true heroes! The itinerary was well-paced, and summiting at sunrise was magical. This company knows how to deliver an epic experience. Thank you!
Our family booked a combined safari and Zanzibar trip with Visit to Tanzania Destination, and it was perfection. The kids loved seeing elephants and lions up close, and our guide’s storytelling kept them engaged. Zanzibar’s clear waters and relaxing vibe were the perfect way to unwind after the safari. The team handled every detail, making it stress-free. We’re so grateful for this incredible journey!
