How do I get from Zanzibar to a safari?
- travelwisesafari
- May 24
- 2 min read
Zanzibar isn’t just about white-sand beaches and turquoise waters—it's also the perfect gateway to unforgettable Tanzania safaris. Many travelers dream of combining beach relaxation with epic wildlife adventures, and the good news is: it’s easy to go from Zanzibar to a safari!
In this guide, we’ll explain how to get from Zanzibar to Tanzania’s top safari parks, the best transport options, costs, and tips to make your journey smooth and exciting.
✈️ 1. Fly from Zanzibar to Northern Tanzania Safari Parks
The fastest and most convenient way to start your safari from Zanzibar is by taking a domestic flight to Arusha, Kilimanjaro, or Seronera (Serengeti).
🛫 Common Flight Routes
Zanzibar ➤ Arusha (for Tarangire, Ngorongoro, Manyara) – ~1hr 30min
Zanzibar ➤ Seronera (Central Serengeti) – ~2hr direct
Zanzibar ➤ Kilimanjaro Airport (JRO) – ~1hr 40min
🏷️ Average Flight Cost:
Zanzibar to Arusha/Kilimanjaro: $100–$250 (one-way)
Zanzibar to Serengeti (Seronera): $300–$450 (one-way)
Flights operate daily with local airlines such as Auric Air, Coastal Aviation, and Flightlink.
💡 Tip: Book a “fly-in safari” package to include flights, safari car, guide, park fees, and lodges—organized from start to finish.
🚐 2. Can I Take a Ferry or Drive to a Safari from Zanzibar?
No direct road option exists between Zanzibar and mainland safari parks because Zanzibar is an island.
But if you're on a tighter budget, here's an alternative:
Step 1: Take the ferry from Zanzibar to Dar es Salaam (~2 hours)
Step 2: Catch a bus or flight from Dar to Arusha or Moshi (10+ hours by road / 1hr by flight)
This option is longer and less comfortable but cheaper if you plan ahead. It’s best for backpackers or travelers with extended itineraries.
🐘 Best Safari Destinations from Zanzibar
Park | Travel Type | Highlights |
Tarangire | Fly to Arusha | Elephants, baobabs, Big 5 |
Ngorongoro Crater | Fly to Arusha | UNESCO site, rhinos, lions |
Serengeti | Fly to Seronera | Great Migration, endless plains |
Lake Manyara | Fly to Arusha | Tree-climbing lions, |
📅 How Many Days Do I Need?
2-Day Safari: Perfect short escape (Tarangire + Ngorongoro)
3–5 Days: Includes Serengeti or full Northern Circuit
💼 Book with Confidence
At Travel Wise Safari, we offer:
All-inclusive packages with flights, lodges, park fees, guide, and transfers
📩 Contact us today to get your custom safari plan starting from Zanzibar!
🦓 Final Thoughts
Getting from Zanzibar to a safari is simpler than most travelers expect. Whether you want a quick fly-in escape or a longer safari adventure, Tanzania offers unmatched wildlife just a short flight away.
So go ahead—relax on the beach, then roar into the wild. 🌴✈️🦁
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