Incredible Tanzania: Serengeti to Zanzibar - 9 Days

Frequently asked questions

• What are the main highlights of this trip?

  Embark on thrilling wildlife drives through the iconic Serengeti, marvel at Ngorongoro Crater — one of the world’s largest intact calderas teeming with unique wildlife, spot towering termite mounds and search for elephants in Tarangire National Park, explore Arusha: the vibrant gateway to Tanzania’s northern safari circuit, and unwind in paradise on Zanzibar’s stunning white-sand beaches.

• Where will we stay during the trip?

  Accommodation will be in Hotels (6 nights) and Comfortable Tented Camps with en-suite facilities (2 nights).

• What transportation will we take on this trip?

  The safari part of this trip is done in private, 7-seat 4x4 Land cruiser vehicles designed for wildlife viewing. The journey from Arusha to Zanzibar will be by plane. Private vehicles are used for other transfers.

• What meals are included in this trip?

  The trip includes 8 breakfasts, 4 lunches, and 4 dinners. When meals are not included, your CEO will suggest local options. Vegetarian and other dietary requirements should be specified prior to arrival. Bottled drinking water is at your own expense.

• What activities are optional on this trip?

  Optional activities include a Lake Manyara Safari Drive, Serengeti Balloon Safari, Zanzibar Snorkelling, and a Jozani Forest Tour (36-160USD per person). You can also simply relax on the beach or go swimming in Jambiani.

• How old must I be to join this trip?

  You must be 18 to travel unaccompanied. For minors travelling with a guardian over 21 years old, the minimum age is 12.

• Are international flights included in this trip?

  No, international flights are generally not included in the price of your tour. Please contact your GCO or booking agent for further details regarding specific combo tours or flight arrangements.

• Is there an extra cost for travelling solo?

  We believe solo travellers should not have to pay more to travel. Our group trips are designed for shared accommodation, and single travellers are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip. If you book the 'My Own Room' option, you will receive your own single room for all night stops.

• How large will the group be?

  The maximum group size is 14 travellers, with an average of 10.

• Who will be leading the group?

  This trip is accompanied by a Chief Experience Officer (CEO), certified safari guides/drivers, and local guides. The CEO will provide information, suggestions, and assist you throughout the trip.

• What should I know about currency, credit cards, and exchanging money while on this tour?

  The local currency in Tanzania is the Tanzanian Shilling (TSH). USD is the easiest foreign currency to exchange. Notes older than 2006 are not accepted. Large notes (USD50, USD100) may be difficult to change in some places but offer the best exchange rate. Travellers’ cheques are not recommended. Visa/Plus system cards are widely accepted at ATMs, while Mastercard/Cirrus cards are harder to use. Credit cards can be used in major cities, but expect a 5-10% fee. A combination of foreign currency and debit/credit cards is best. Occasional power outages may affect ATM access, so don't rely solely on cards.

• How much emergency money should I bring on this trip?

  Please make sure you have access to at least an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) as an 'emergency' fund, to be used when circumstances outside our control (e.g., a natural disaster) require a change to our planned route. This is a rare occurrence.

• Is travel insurance required for my trip?

  Travel insurance is compulsory. You must be covered for medical expenses, including emergency evacuation and repatriation, with a minimum coverage of USD200,000. We strongly recommend coverage for personal liability, cancellation, curtailment, and loss of luggage. Your leader will require proof of insurance.

• Are there any health considerations I should know before travelling?

  We recommend contacting your physician or local travel clinic at least one month before departure for up-to-date health information and inoculations. A Yellow Fever certificate may be required if travelling from an endemic country or through an airport of an endemic country for more than 12 hours. Malaria is present in some regions; speak to your doctor about preventative medication and use insect repellent. Medical facilities are basic.

• What do I need to know about safety and security on my trip?

  We recommend checking your government's travel advice and using a neck wallet or money belt for valuables. Leave valuable jewellery at home. Hotels often have safety deposit boxes. Your group leader may amend the itinerary due to safety concerns. Optional activities are at your own judgement and risk. In cities, avoid wandering alone at night and use taxis. Water-based activities should be accompanied by guides. In Arusha and Stone Town (Zanzibar), politely decline street sellers and touts. Zanzibar is predominantly Muslim; dress modestly (knees and shoulders covered) to avoid offense and unwanted attention. Be cautious of 'beach boys' in coastal areas and be aware of your surroundings.

• What rules should I know before joining this trip?

  Illegal drugs will not be tolerated. Possessing or using drugs contravenes laws and puts the group at risk. Exploitation of people in the sex trade is against our philosophy. Your CEO has the right to expel any group member for drug possession or utilizing paid sex workers.

• What are the visas and entry requirements for my trip?

  All countries require a valid passport with at least 6 months validity. Contact your local embassy or consulate for up-to-date visa requirements. A Yellow Fever certificate may be required. For Tanzania online visa applications, our host details are: 'the tour operator' (Full Name, Company Name), experience@gadventures.com, +255 754 400 141 (Mobile No), Tour Operator (Relationship), P.O.Box 1912, Boma Road, Arusha (Physical Address). As of October 1st, 2024, Zanzibar will require mandatory Inbound Travel Insurance from the Zanzibar Insurance Corporation (ZIC).

• When can I do my laundry on this trip?

  Laundry facilities are offered by some of our hotels for a charge. We suggest bringing non-polluting/biodegradable soap for times when you may need to do your own laundry.

• What happens if I experience problems when arriving?

  If you have a pre-booked transfer and don't meet our representative within 30 minutes of clearing customs, we recommend making your own way to the starting point hotel via taxi and applying for a refund of the transfer cost on your return. In case of any issues, contact the emergency numbers provided in your dossier.

• What are the joining instructions?

  For joining hotel details, refer to your tour voucher, G Account, the tour operator App, or contact your travel agent. If you booked an arrival transfer, a representative will meet you. Day 1 is an arrival day with no planned activities. Upon arrival at your hotel (check-in in the afternoon), look for a note from your CEO regarding the Welcome Meeting (usually 5pm-7pm). If you miss it, your CEO will leave a note with necessary information.

• Who should I contact in case of an emergency?

  For urgent situations, first call the tour operator Local Representative or Local Office. If no immediate answer, leave a detailed message. Emergency contact numbers are: Local Office (Nairobi, Kenya) +254 727 208 832 (from outside Kenya) / 0727 208 832 (within Kenya), and Local Representative (Zanzibar) Mr Salum Muhidin: +255 773 258 773. Global sales team numbers are also available if local contact is not possible.

• What is Planeterra?

  Planeterra International Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to creating economic opportunities for local communities through tourism. They support community-owned businesses, empowering Indigenous people, women, and youth, and protecting the environment. As the tour operator's largest corporate donor, 100% of your donations through the 'Dollar-a-day Program' go directly to Planeterra projects.

• Should I be tipping on my trip?

  Tipping is an expected, though not compulsory, part of your tour and is an important source of income for those in the tourism industry. It serves as an expression of appreciation for exceptional service. For group staff, a suggestion is for each member to contribute anonymously to an envelope and present it as a group. Guidelines (per person): CEO: $5 USD/day, Driver: $5 USD/day, Supply crew: $2-5 USD/day, Local guides: $1 USD/couple of hours (mainland) / $2 USD/day (Zanzibar), Hotel porters (Zanzibar): $1 USD, Restaurant/café servers: 10% of the bill.