Serengeti to Zanzibar Overland Safari & Participation Camping - 9 Days

Frequently asked questions

• What kind of accommodation is provided on this tour?

  The tour includes a mix of accommodation: 5 nights in basic hotels (single or twin-share), 1 night in Beach Bandas, and 2 nights of full-service camping. For camping, tents are pitched for you, and while facilities can be basic (especially near Ngorongoro Crater), it offers a close-to-nature experience. Hotels in Zanzibar are standard twin-share.

• What type of transportation will be used during the tour?

  Transportation includes specialized 4x4 safari vehicles for wildlife drives in Serengeti and Ngorongoro, a private bus from Arusha to Dar es Salaam, a public ferry to Zanzibar, and minibuses on Zanzibar.

• What is the age range for participants on this tour?

  The tour is suitable for individuals aged 12 to 100 years.

• Are international flights included in the tour price?

  No, international flights are generally not included in the tour price.

• What meals are included in the tour?

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

• Is there a single supplement for solo travelers?

  For group trips, single travelers are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex, so there is no single supplement.

• What are some of the main highlights of this trip?

  Key highlights include tracking the "big five" in the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater, camping in the Tanzanian wilderness, relaxing on the white-sand beaches of Zanzibar, and exploring the vibrant Stone Town.

• Who will be leading the group during the tour?

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

• What optional activities are available on this tour?

  Optional activities include a Serengeti Balloon Safari, the Zanzibar Express (a flight to Zanzibar to cut travel time), 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.

• What should I know about currency and money access in Tanzania and Zanzibar?

  The local currency in Tanzania is the Tanzanian Shilling (TSH/TZS). Travelers' cheques are not recommended. Visa/Plus system cards are widely accepted for debit, but Mastercard/Cirrus are less so; it's advisable to carry both. Credit cards are not widely accepted outside major cities and may incur a 5-10% fee. ATMs can run out of cash, and power outages may occur, so a combination of foreign currency and cards is best. An emergency fund of at least USD $200 is also recommended.

• What health precautions should I consider before traveling?

  It is recommended to consult your physician or a travel clinic at least a month before departure for up-to-date health information and recommended inoculations. A valid Yellow Fever Certificate is compulsory if traveling from or transiting through a Yellow Fever endemic country. Malaria is present in some regions, and preventative medication and insect repellent are recommended.

• What is Planeterra?

  Planeterra International Foundation is a non-profit organization that turns travel into positive impact by supporting local community-owned businesses, empowering women, granting youth employment, and protecting the environment. 100% of donations go directly to Planeterra projects.

• What are the tipping guidelines for this tour?

  Tipping is expected as a form of appreciation for exceptional service and is an important source of income for those in the tourism industry. Recommended daily guidelines per person are: $5 USD for the CEO, $5 USD for the Driver, $2-5 USD for supply crew, $1 USD per couple of hours for local guides (or $2 per day in Zanzibar), $1 USD for hotel porters in Zanzibar, and 10% of the bill for restaurant/café servers.

• Are there specific safety guidelines to follow during the tour?

  It is recommended to use a neck wallet or money belt for valuables, leave valuable jewelry at home, and use safety deposit boxes at hotels. A lock for luggage is also advised. During free time, use good judgment, stay in small groups at night, and take taxis. Water-based activities should ideally be accompanied by guides, and swimming is at your own risk.

• What should LGBTQ+ travelers know about this trip?

  The tour operator prioritizes the safety and well-being of all travelers, including those identifying as LGBTQ+. They encourage visiting their LGBTQ+ page for useful resources and to check the Equaldex tool for specific country information.

• Is electricity guaranteed at campsites for medical equipment like CPAP machines?

  No, public campsites used on this trip cannot guarantee electricity for medical equipment like Sleep Apnea and CPAP machines.

• Can I do laundry during the trip?

  Hand washing of clothes can be done at most campsites, which usually have simple facilities. It's recommended to bring biodegradable soap and a string for a drying line. Drying may not be possible if arriving late or in poor weather.