Tanzania is one of the world’s great honeymoon destinations. In one trip you can watch lions on the Serengeti, look into the Ngorongoro Crater at sunrise and finish on a quiet Zanzibar beach. The flights between them are short.
The classic combination
| Part | Days | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Safari | 4–6 | Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire |
| Beach | 4–7 | Zanzibar, Pemba or a private island |
Nine to twelve days is ideal. Start with the safari, which has early mornings and some long drives, and end on the beach to relax. Light aircraft fly from the Serengeti or Arusha to Zanzibar.
Best time to go
- June to October: dry, excellent game viewing, good beach weather.
- January and February: calving season in the southern Serengeti and hot, calm beach days.
- April and May: the long rains. Some lodges close.
Read the best time for a safari and the best time to visit Zanzibar.
Special experiences
- Hot-air balloon flight over the Serengeti at dawn, with breakfast in the bush.
- Private game drives at your own pace.
- Bush dinners under the stars.
- Sunset dhow cruise in Zanzibar.
- Snorkelling at Mnemba Atoll or a sandbank picnic.
- Spa treatments at a beach resort.
Where to stay
Choose smaller camps and lodges with private decks and views. On Zanzibar, quieter beaches such as Matemwe and Michamvi suit couples better than busy Nungwi. Read Zanzibar beaches.
Tell us it’s your honeymoon
Many lodges offer touches such as a decorated room, a bottle of sparkling wine or a special dinner. Some offer honeymoon discounts if you bring a marriage certificate dated within six months.
Add Kilimanjaro?
Some couples start married life by climbing Kilimanjaro together. Read which Kilimanjaro route to choose.
See our honeymoon: crater and Zanzibar and safari and Zanzibar.
Frequently asked questions
Nine to twelve days is ideal: four to six on safari and four to seven on the beach.
June to October, or January and February, for good weather on both safari and the beach.
Many do, such as room decorations, special dinners or discounts. Tell us it’s your honeymoon when you book.
