Serengeti to Zanzibar Overland Safari & Participation Camping - 9 Days

Frequently asked questions

• What are the main highlights of this trip?

  The main highlights include tracking the "big five" across the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater, camping in the Tanzanian wilderness to get close to nature, relaxing on the white-sand beaches of Zanzibar, and exploring the hustle and bustle of Stone Town on your own.

• What is the accommodation like on this tour?

  Accommodation includes 5 nights in basic hotels (single or twin-share), 1 night in Beach Bandas, and 2 nights of full-service camping. All camping equipment except your sleeping bag is provided, including dome tents, camp mattresses, pillows, and light sleeping sheets. Campsites can be basic, particularly in Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater, offering long-drop latrines and simple cold showers. Tents are pitched for you as part of the full-service camping experience.

• What meals are included in this trip?

  The tour includes 8 breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 3 dinners.

• How will we travel between destinations?

  Travel will be by private 7-seat 4x4 Land cruiser safari vehicles (designed for wildlife viewing with sliding windows and pop-up roofs), private bus, public ferry to Zanzibar, and minibuses on Zanzibar. Travel days can involve long drives on varying road conditions.

• Is there an extra cost for solo travelers?

  No, our group trips are designed for shared accommodation, and solo travelers are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex, so there is no single supplement.

• What optional activities are available?

  Optional activities include a Serengeti Balloon Safari, Zanzibar Express (a scenic flight to Zanzibar from Arusha), a Stone Town Walking Tour, visits to Christ Church Cathedral & Old Slave Market, Sultan's Palace Museum, swimming in Jambiani, and a Jozani Forest Tour.

• Are there any health considerations or required vaccinations for this trip?

  We recommend consulting your doctor or a travel clinic at least one month prior to departure. A basic first-aid kit and hand sanitizers are advisable. A valid Yellow Fever Certificate is compulsory if traveling from or transiting through a Yellow Fever endemic country (Tanzania is included). Malaria is present in some regions, and preventative medication combined with insect repellent is recommended.

• Is travel insurance compulsory for this trip?

  Yes, travel insurance is compulsory. It must cover medical expenses, including emergency evacuation and repatriation, with a minimum coverage of USD200,000. Coverage for personal liability, cancellation, curtailment, and loss of luggage is strongly recommended.

• What are the tipping guidelines for the trip?

  Tipping is an expected but not compulsory gesture of appreciation. Suggested guidelines per person per day are: CEO: $5 USD, Driver: $5 USD, Supply crew: $2-5 USD. Local guides (per couple of hours): $1 USD, Local guides (Zanzibar): $2 per day. Hotel porters (Zanzibar): $1 USD. Restaurant/café servers: 10% of the bill.

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

  The local currency is the Tanzanian Shilling (TZS). Travelers' cheques are not recommended. Visa/Plus system cards are more widely accepted at ATMs than Mastercard/Cirrus cards, but their functionality is not guaranteed. Credit cards can be used in major cities, but typically incur a 5%-10% fee and are not widely accepted elsewhere. It's advisable to carry a combination of foreign currency and debit/credit cards, along with an emergency fund of at least USD $200, as power outages and ATM cash shortages can occur.

• Who will be leading the group on this tour?

  The group will be led by a CEO (Chief Experience Officer), certified safari guides/drivers, and local guides.

• What general safety tips should I follow during the trip?

  It is recommended to check your government's travel advice, use a neck wallet or money belt for valuables, and leave valuable jewelry at home. Many hotels have safety deposit boxes. A lock for luggage is advised. Your CEO can amend the itinerary for safety reasons. During free time, use good judgment, stay in small groups at night, and take taxis. Swimming and water activities are at your own risk unless accompanied by a guide.

• Can I do laundry during the trip?

  Hand washing clothes is possible at campsites, as most have simple facilities for this. Bringing a non-polluting/biodegradable soap and a string for a drying line is recommended.

• What is Planeterra?

  Planeterra International Foundation is a non-profit organization that helps local communities earn income from tourism by developing and supporting small community-owned businesses. These businesses empower Indigenous people, women, and youth, and protect the environment.

• What is included in the tour price beyond meals and accommodation?

  The tour includes a G for Good Moment: Mto wa Mbu Community Visit and Lunch, a Welcome Moment: Meet Your CEO and Group in Arusha, entrances and wildlife safari drives in Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro Crater, the ferry to Zanzibar, a Stone Town orientation walk, and beach time in Zanzibar. All transport between destinations and to/from included activities is also covered.