Tanzania 4 Day Itinerary

Tanzania 4-Day Travel Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Dar es Salaam and Transfer to Zanzibar

  1. Arrival: Upon arrival at Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR), complete immigration procedures and obtain a Visa if necessary (see visa section below).
  2. Transportation: Book a flight or ferry ticket to Zanzibar, which is about an hour away from Dar es Salaam. Ferries are the most affordable option while flights offer a quicker journey.
  3. Activities in Zanzibar:
    • Spend your day exploring Stone Town, Zanzibar’s historic center filled with narrow, winding alleys, colorful buildings, and vibrant markets.
    • Visit the House of Wonders (Beit-el-Ajaib) and Palace Museum for insights into the region’s history.
    • Take a stroll along the beautiful beaches like Nungwi Beach or Kendwa Beach for relaxation and stunning sunset views.
  4. Tips:
    • Be aware of hustlers in Stone Town, and negotiate prices before starting any transactions.
    • Haggle with spice vendors in the markets for high-quality Zanzibar spices to take home.

Day 2: Jozani Forest and Prison Island

  1. Activities:
    • In the morning, visit Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park to see the Red Colobus Monkeys and various bird species endemic to Zanzibar.
    • After lunch, head to Prison Island (Changuu Island) to swim with giant tortoises and explore the coral reefs through snorkeling or a glass-bottomed boat tour.
  2. Tips:
    • Wear long sleeves, trousers, and insect repellent when visiting Jozani Forest to protect against mosquitoes.
    • Remember to bring your swimwear for the activities at Prison Island.

Day 3: Safari in Tarangire National Park

  1. Transportation: Take a morning flight or drive (approximately 2 hours) from Zanzibar to Arusha, then continue to Tarangire National Park (about 2 hours).
  2. Activities:
    • Enjoy a full-day game drive in Tarangire National Park to spot elephants, lions, giraffes, and various bird species.
    • Take in the beautiful landscape of this diverse ecosystem that includes savannah, river valleys, and baobab trees.
  3. Tips:
    • Bring plenty of water and snacks for the day, as well as sunscreen and insect repellent.
    • Hire a knowledgeable guide to maximize your wildlife-spotting opportunities.

Day 4: Ngorongoro Crater and Departure

  1. Activities:
    • Early morning departure for Ngorongoro Conservation Area.
    • Descend into the Ngorongoro Crater for a half-day game drive, searching for the “Big Five” (elephant, lion, leopard, rhinoceros, and buffalo) along with other wildlife species.
  2. Transportation: Transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport or another nearby airport for your departure flight.
  3. Tips:
    • The Ngorongoro Crater is at a high altitude, so bring warm clothing to combat the chill.
    • If you have additional time, consider visiting Serengeti National Park as an extension of this itinerary.

Visa Requirements:

Tourist visas are required for most nationalities and can be obtained upon arrival at the airport or online in advance. The cost is approximately $50 for a single-entry visa, valid for 3 months. Check the Tanzanian embassy or consulate website for the most current information on visa requirements and fees.

Transportation:

Domestic flights within Tanzania are affordable and convenient, with companies like Precision Air, Coastal Aviation, and Auric Air offering services to popular destinations. Booking in advance is recommended during high season. Buses and shared minivans (daladala) are also available for more budget-friendly travel options. Renting a car or hiring a private driver can offer flexibility when exploring Tanzania’s attractions at your own pace.

Enjoy your adventure in Tanzania!