Zanzibar
Kwanza Resort
A beachfront retreat on the Indian Ocean.
Rising Journey Expeditions · 12 nights
The Ultimate Northern
Safari Circuit
A 12-night journey from the beaches of Zanzibar to Tarangire, Karatu, the Ngorongoro Crater and the Central and Northern Serengeti.
- 13 Days / 12 Nights
- Beach & Safari
- Zanzibar
- Northern Circuit
The journey
From the ocean
to the plains.
This thoughtfully curated journey begins on the tranquil shores of Zanzibar, where the rhythm of the Indian Ocean sets a gentle pace before you continue into Tanzania's most iconic safari landscapes.
From coastal serenity to wildlife-rich plains, the experience unfolds seamlessly, combining relaxation, exploration and refined luxury.
The route
Where the journey
takes you.
- Day 01–03 Zanzibar Indian Ocean
- Day 04–05 Tarangire Elephants & baobabs
- Day 06 Karatu Farm & forest
- Day 07 Ngorongoro Highlands & crater
- Day 08–09 Serengeti Endless plains
- Day 10–12 Northern Serengeti The Mara ecosystem
- Day 13 Departure Fly home
Day by day
Your days in Tanzania
Every itinerary can be adapted to your dates, pace and preferred lodges.
Day 1: Arrival in Zanzibar
Indian Ocean Serenity
Dinner & overnight at Kwanza Resort, Zanzibar
Arrive on the island of Zanzibar, where you are warmly welcomed and transferred to your beachfront retreat.
Settle into the relaxed rhythm of the ocean, with palm-fringed shores and turquoise waters creating a sense of immediate calm. The rest of the day is at leisure.
- Stay
- Kwanza Resort, Zanzibar
- Region
- Arrival in Zanzibar
Day 2: Zanzibar
Coastal Indulgence
Dinner & overnight at Kwanza Resort, Zanzibar
Wake to the gentle sounds of the ocean and spend your day entirely at your own pace.
Relax by the pool, enjoy the pristine beach or book spa treatments. Optional excursions such as Stone Town or spice tours can be arranged, though the true luxury lies in simply slowing down.
- Stay
- Kwanza Resort, Zanzibar
- Region
- Zanzibar
Day 3: Zanzibar
Leisure & Reflection
Dinner & overnight at Kwanza Resort, Zanzibar
Your final day on the island invites deeper relaxation.
Take in the beauty of your surroundings, enjoy exceptional hospitality and allow time to fully unwind before your safari begins. As the sun sets over the Indian Ocean, anticipation builds for the adventure ahead.
- Stay
- Kwanza Resort, Zanzibar
- Region
- Zanzibar
Day 4: Zanzibar to Tarangire
Into the Wilderness
Dinner & overnight at Tarangire Elephant Springs
This morning, fly from Zanzibar to Arusha, where your private guide welcomes you and begins your safari by road toward Tarangire National Park.
The transition from coast to savannah is seamless and inspiring. Arrive at your lodge, set within a private concession, where refined comfort meets untouched wilderness.
- Stay
- Tarangire Elephant Springs
- Region
- Zanzibar to Tarangire
Day 5: Tarangire
Among Giants
Dinner & overnight at Tarangire Elephant Springs
Spend the day exploring Tarangire, a landscape famed for its ancient baobabs and large elephant herds.
With your private guide, enjoy unhurried game drives in a calm and intimate setting. Between activities, relax at camp and take in the quiet beauty of the surrounding wilderness.
- Stay
- Tarangire Elephant Springs
- Region
- Tarangire
Day 6: Karatu Highlands
Farm & Forest Retreat
Dinner & overnight at Gibb's Farm
Journey on to the lush highlands of Karatu, with a cultural stop in Mto wa Mbu for local activities and authentic cuisine, offering insight into Maasai, Iraqw and other tribal life.
Continue through rolling hills and farmland to a historic estate set within coffee plantations — a peaceful retreat with authentic highland charm.
- Stay
- Gibb's Farm
- Region
- Karatu Highlands
Day 7: Ngorongoro Experience
Nature & Culture
Dinner & overnight at Gibb's Farm
From Gibb's Farm, descend into the Ngorongoro Crater for a full-day, unhurried crater safari, with opportunities to spot rhino and the rest of the Big Five in a breathtaking setting.
Enjoy a private picnic with panoramic crater views before an afternoon game drive, then return to the lodge for dinner.
- Stay
- Gibb's Farm
- Region
- Ngorongoro Experience
Day 8: Serengeti
Into the Iconic Plains
Dinner & overnight at Awali Serengeti Camp
Travel toward the Serengeti, where the landscape opens into vast, wildlife-rich plains, with rewarding game viewing along the way.
Arrive at your luxury camp, where understated elegance blends with the raw beauty of the surroundings.
- Stay
- Awali Serengeti Camp
- Region
- Serengeti
Day 9: Serengeti
Immersive Safari Experience
Dinner & overnight at Awali Serengeti Camp
Spend the day exploring the Serengeti at your own pace.
Early morning and afternoon game drives reveal the region's rich biodiversity, while time at camp allows for quiet reflection. Each moment is unhurried, allowing for meaningful encounters and a deep connection to the wilderness.
- Stay
- Awali Serengeti Camp
- Region
- Serengeti
Day 10: Northern Serengeti
Remote & Exclusive
Dinner & overnight at Lemala Kuria Hills Lodge
Journey north into a more remote region of the Serengeti, known for its exclusivity and dramatic wildlife encounters.
The drive is both scenic and rewarding. Arrive at your lodge, where refined luxury meets expansive views over the Mara ecosystem.
- Stay
- Lemala Kuria Hills Lodge
- Region
- Northern Serengeti
Day 11: Northern Serengeti
The Mara Experience
Dinner & overnight at Lemala Kuria Hills Lodge
Explore the northern Serengeti, an area renowned for its seasonal migration and quieter game viewing.
With fewer vehicles and vast open spaces, each experience feels private and immersive. Enjoy flexible game drives, bush picnics and exceptional guiding throughout the day.
- Stay
- Lemala Kuria Hills Lodge
- Region
- Northern Serengeti
Day 12: Northern Serengeti
Final Reflections
Dinner & overnight at Lemala Kuria Hills Lodge
Your final full day on safari is designed to be slow and reflective.
Take in the last moments of the wilderness, whether on a gentle morning drive or relaxing at camp. As evening falls, celebrate your journey with a memorable dinner under the stars.
- Stay
- Lemala Kuria Hills Lodge
- Region
- Northern Serengeti
Day 13: Departure
Fly Back to Kilimanjaro
After a relaxed breakfast, transfer to the airstrip for your scheduled flight back to Kilimanjaro, concluding your unforgettable journey through Tanzania's most diverse and inspiring landscapes.
Where you will stay
Places chosen for
the experience.
Lodges and camps selected to suit the landscape and the pace of the journey. Alternatives can be suggested for any budget.
Tarangire
Tarangire Elephant Springs
Lodge within a private concession in elephant country.
Karatu
Gibb's Farm
A historic farm estate in the Karatu highlands.
Central Serengeti
Awali Serengeti Camp
Understated elegance on the Serengeti plains.
Northern Serengeti
Lemala Kuria Hills Lodge
Hilltop lodge overlooking the Mara ecosystem.
Included
Your journey includes
- Private safari vehicle & professional guide
- All park & conservation fees
- Full-board accommodation
- Cultural experiences (Hadzabe & Datoga)
- Domestic flights: Zanzibar to Arusha & Serengeti to Kilimanjaro
- All game drives
Not included
Personal expenses
- International flights
- Visa fees
- Travel insurance
- Gratuities & personal expenses
- Premium beverages and optional activities (e.g. balloon safaris)
Start planning
Tell us how
you imagine it.
Every journey can be adapted around your travel dates, preferred accommodation and interests.
Send us the details below and our team will start shaping your private proposal for The Ultimate Northern Safari Circuit.
Good to know: Your enquiry does not commit you to a booking. It simply gives our team what we need to start designing your journey.
Request your proposal
Your journey begins here.
Tell us when you would like to travel and who is coming. We reply within 24 hours with a tailored proposal and a clear price.