The Best of Zanzibar & Mafia Islands
During the month of October and March, the western shore of Mafia Island calls itself home to the mighty whale shark. Whale sharks are not typical whales or and are shark which we may think of. They are the largest fish in the sea measuring up to 20m. Little is known about these gentle giants by scientists, which is what adds to the overwhelming feeling you have when you swim alongside them.
- Zanzibar
Zanzibar is an Archipelago in the Indian ocean 25-50 kilometers off the coast of the mainland and consists of many small islands and two large ones, Unguja, which is the main Island, referred to informally as Zanzibar, and Pemba Island. Heavenly beaches and transparent lagoons are offered to travelers after a wild escape on the continent! Many activities are available to discover this jewel of the Indian Ocean.
- Stone Town
This Zanzibar capital is classified as a Unesco world heritage site and allows its visitors to immerse themselves in its rich history.
- Mnemba Island
In the heart of a national marine park and surrounded by an atoll of coral reefs, Mnemba is a small paradise to explore with different oceanic experiences.
- Spice Tour
Walk in the farms with spices and their intoxicating smells: cloves, cinnamon, cardamom etc. Colors and scents are unforgettable experiences you will encounter during your visit.
- Sunset on the Ocean
Sunset behind the traditional and emblematic island: Board the famous traditional dhow for a timeless moment on the Indian Ocean.
Travel Tips
Weather Seasons & Climate
It is possible to travel to Tanzania all year-round. Temperatures range between 20 to 35 degrees Celsius. There are two rainy seasons that punctuate the calendar year the heavy rains season from the end of March to mid-May and the short rains period in November. How the broad weather pattern works in relation to the great migration is of particular interest to most of our guests. Hence, is a summary:
- December to March
During this time of the year, the wildebeest are in the southern area of the Serengeti more in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area and it is calving season at Ndutu. During this period the migration is “in between” the locations. As such, these months are
- April to June
slightly transitional times for seeing the herds, which can be found in the central and western parts of the Serengeti.
- July to October
During these months the wildebeest are in the northern Serengeti plains, and you have a chance of seeing thousands of herds crossing the great Mara River.
- November
During this month in a ‘normal year’ the short rains have begun — propelling the wildebeest to leave the now denuded grasslands of the Maasai Mara and head back to the rejuvenated Serengeti.
Formalities
- With ample support from Usari Safaris & Tours, guests are strongly advised to consult their travel agents, family medical doctors, and other providers to ensure compliance with outbound in destination requirements.
- These include airline tickets, travel insurance, passport validity, entry visa issuance, general health-check-up, Covid 19 vaccine status and PCR tests, local taxes, customs, currency, baggage and airport information.
- Health authorities recommend vaccination against yellow fever even if the risks are increasingly low. Preventive treatment against malaria is recommended.
- Consult your medical doctor before your departure. You are advised to check the validity of your passport before traveling and to renew it if necessary. Passport must be valid 6 months into the future after your date of arrival.
Airports
- Three International Airports
- Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO)
- Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR)
- Zanzibar International Airport (ZNZ)
Reach Tanzania in One Stop-Over
- KLM via Amsterdam
- Qatar Airways via Doha
- Fly Emirates via Dubai
- Ethiopian Airlines via Addis Ababa
- Turkish Airlines via Istanbul
- Kenya Airways via Nairobi
Accomodation list
Details
The Best of Zanzibar & Mafia Islands
Arrive in Zanzibar Airport transfer to stone town for overnight.
Overnight at Park Hyatt Zanzibar
Transfer to the village beach for relaxation and Overnight.
Overnight at Park Hyatt Zanzibar
Full day of Safari Blue excursions.
Overnight at Royal Zanzibar Beach Resort
Fly to Mafia Island for Skubadiving excursions, evening sunset Cruise with snacks and drinks over a traditional dhow.
Overnight at Kinasi Lodge.
Snorkelling activity in Chole bay. This area has a great number of fish with different shapes, sizes and colour. The marine diversity of this area is of over 400 species of fish, 5 species of marine turtle and 48 species of coral.
Overnight at Kinasi Lodge.
Swim, dive and Snorkel with humpback whales of Mafia Island.
Overnight at Kinasi Lodge.
Swimming at the Blue Lagoon. At the end of the channel is an enormous natural infinity pool whose level varies according to the tides which gives a hot natural swim.
Overnight at Kinasi Lodge.
Fly to Zanzibar and Overnight at Stone town.
Overnight at Park Hyatt Zanzibar
Morning Stone Town Tour and evening transfer to the airport.
Ready to Start Planning Your Dream Safari?
Let our local travel specialists create a personalized safari and/or beach itinerary tailored to your interests, travel dates, and budget. From iconic wildlife adventures to relaxing island escapes, we'll help you design an unforgettable African journey.
Travel Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Planning your Tanzania safari? Here are answers to the questions we receive most often. If you need further assistance, our travel specialists are always happy to help.
Absolutely. Every Usari Safaris itinerary is tailor-made and can be customized to match your travel dates, interests, accommodation preferences, budget, and pace of travel. Whether you're planning a honeymoon, family holiday, luxury safari, or adventure expedition, we'll create an itinerary that perfectly suits your needs.
Most safari packages include accommodation, private transportation in a 4×4 safari vehicle, professional English-speaking safari guide, park entrance fees (where specified), meals as indicated in the itinerary, and scheduled activities. Please refer to the specific itinerary for complete inclusions.
No. International and domestic flights are only included if specifically mentioned in the itinerary or quotation. We can assist you with flight recommendations and bookings upon request.
Tanzania is a year-round safari destination. The best time depends on your interests, whether it's witnessing the Great Migration, climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, enjoying a beach holiday in Zanzibar, or experiencing exceptional wildlife viewing during the dry season.
Yes. Combining a wildlife safari with a relaxing Zanzibar beach holiday is one of our most popular experiences. We can tailor a seamless itinerary that includes Tanzania's national parks and the beautiful beaches of Zanzibar.
Most visitors require a visa to enter Tanzania. Visa requirements vary depending on your nationality. Our travel consultants will guide you through the visa application process before your departure.
We recommend packing lightweight clothing, a light jacket for cool mornings and evenings, comfortable walking shoes, sunglasses, sunscreen, a hat, camera equipment, binoculars, insect repellent, and any personal medications.
We use specially designed 4×4 safari vehicles equipped with pop-up roofs for wildlife viewing, comfortable seating, charging ports, and driven by experienced professional safari guides to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey.
Yes. We strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance covering medical emergencies, trip cancellation, baggage, and evacuation to ensure peace of mind throughout your journey.
Simply click the Request Custom Quote button or contact us via WhatsApp with your preferred travel dates and requirements. One of our safari specialists will prepare a personalized itinerary and detailed quotation, guiding you through every step of the booking process.
