A 10-Day Tanzanian Adventure: From Zanzibar Beaches to Safari Thrills

Tanzania is a land of contrasts: think pristine beaches, thundering wildebeest migrations, snow-capped peaks, and vibrant cultures. This 10-day itinerary starts in Zanzibar, winds through the mainland’s iconic safari parks, and ends with a taste of Tanzanian hospitality.

Whether you’re a budget backpacker or a comfort-seeking family, this guide covers everything: costs, food, wildlife, and tips for local and foreign travellers alike!

Planning a 10-Day Tanzania Road Trip

Day 1: Touchdown in Zanzibar – Stone Town & Sunset Dhow Cruises

Upon landing at Abeid Amani Karume International Airport, travellers should proceed to their pre-booked rental car provider in Tanzania. Finalrentals offers a range of vehicles suitable for both city and off-road driving.

A 4x4 is recommended if the road trip will later include rural destinations. The short 5-mile (8 km) drive to Stone Town sets the stage for an unforgettable journey through this UNESCO World Heritage Site, where centuries-old architecture reflects the island’s rich history of Arabic, Persian, and European influence.

Begin exploring the narrow alleys and intricately carved doorways that make Stone Town unique. Must-see landmarks include the House of Wonders, Tanzania’s first building with electricity and a prime example of Zanzibar’s colonial past.

After soaking in the historical ambience, head to Forodhani Gardens, where locals and tourists gather for the lively evening night market. Here, you can enjoy fresh coconut water and sample local street food like grilled fish or samosas while enjoying the sea breeze.

To cap off the day, consider booking a sunset dhow cruise, priced between $30 and $50 per person, depending on the package. These traditional wooden boats offer a scenic way to witness Zanzibar’s stunning coastline while enjoying Swahili snacks and drinks. It's an ideal romantic or cultural experience that blends relaxation with sightseeing.

Accommodation options vary from budget-friendly stays like Dhow Inn ($30/night) to mid-range comfort at Zanzibar Palace Hotel ($80/night), within easy reach of Stone Town’s attractions. For dinner, try pilau mbogamboga, a spiced rice dish cooked with coconut milk and vegetables, available for around $5 per plate at local eateries.

Lastly, don’t miss shopping for souvenirs in Stone Town’s markets. Remember to haggle politely—starting negotiations at about half the quoted price often yields a fair deal.

Day 2: Zanzibar’s Spice Route & Jozani Forest

On Day 2, continue your exploration of Zanzibar by heading inland to experience its lush natural beauty and biodiversity. The drive from Stone Town to Jozani Chwaka Bay Forest Reserve spans about 25 miles (40 km) and takes approximately one hour, passing through small villages and verdant landscapes.

Begin your day with a guided spice farm tour ($20/person), where you’ll learn about cloves, cinnamon, nutmeg, and the so-called “miracle berry” that temporarily alters taste perception.

After the spice tour, visit Jozani Forest, home to the rare Zanzibar red colobus monkey, found nowhere else in the world. The forest walk is shaded and relatively short, making it family-friendly, though insect repellent is essential due to mosquitoes in shaded areas.

In the afternoon, travel to Kendwa Beach, known for its white sands and clear waters, perfect for snorkelling. You can rent gear locally for around $10–$15 or bring your own. As the sun sets, unwind with a cocktail at Kendwa Rocks or opt for a private beach dinner experience some hotels offer.

Accommodations for the night include the Kendwa Palm Hotel ($100/night), which offers direct beach access, or budget-friendly options like the Z Hotel ($25/night), popular among backpackers.

This day blends nature, wildlife, and relaxation, setting a strong foundation for the upcoming mainland adventures.

Day 3: Ferry to Dar es Salaam & Drive to Bagamoyo

After two days exploring Zanzibar’s spice farms and beaches, it’s time to head to the Tanzanian mainland. Start your day early by catching the Azam Marine ferry from Zanzibar to Dar es Salaam. Ferries depart as early as 7:00 AM, with the last one leaving at 4:00 PM.

The journey takes around 1 hour and 20 minutes, giving you a smooth and scenic start to your mainland adventure. Tickets cost about $35 one-way, and ferries run daily.

Once you arrive in Dar es Salaam, pick up a rental car at the port or continue with your Zanzibar rental if allowed. It’s a short 40-mile (65 km) drive to Bagamoyo, which takes about 1 hour and 2 minutes. This historic town was once East Africa’s busiest slave port and is rich in colonial architecture and stories of the past.

Must-see spots include the Bagamoyo Museum ($5 entry), where you’ll learn about the town’s role in trade and slavery. Then, visit the ruins of St. Joseph’s Church, Tanzania’s oldest Catholic mission, offering a quiet, reflective space amid old stone walls.

For accommodation, budget travellers can stay at Bagamoyo Backpackers ($20/night), while those looking for more comfort might enjoy The Old Boma Hotel ($60/night). Try Mama Kemi’s Café for dinner and order samaki wa kupaka —a creamy coconut fish dish—for just $7.

This day blends history, culture, and coastal charm before heading inland toward Tanzania’s wild heart.

Day 4: Drive to Mikumi National Park

Leaving the coastal town of Bagamoyo behind, today’s journey takes you inland to Mikumi National Park, part of Tanzania’s Southern Safari Circuit. The drive covers 220 miles (350 km) and takes around 6 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. Most of the route is paved, but be prepared for potholes near smaller towns and villages, especially after rain.

Mikumi offers a quieter alternative to the busier northern parks like Serengeti. Upon arrival, settle into your accommodation and prepare for an afternoon game drive. At Mikumi Safari Lodge ($100/night), you’ll enjoy comfortable rooms and great views, while budget travellers can opt for Mziziwa Campsite ($15/night) for a more rustic experience. Entry into the park costs $30 per person per day.

As you explore the park, look for lions, elephants, giraffes, zebras, and even the elusive leopard hiding in trees. Unlike the vast plains of Serengeti, Mikumi offers a mix of open savannah and woodland, making wildlife sightings more intimate. Birdwatchers will also enjoy the variety of species, including lilac-breasted rollers and hornbills.

Meals at the lodge are hearty and delicious, ranging from $10 to $20 per person. They often include local dishes like nyama choma (grilled meat) with ugali (maize porridge).

Mikumi may not be as famous as other Tanzanian parks, but it’s perfect for travellers who want to avoid crowds while still enjoying excellent wildlife viewing.

Day 5: Drive to Ruaha National Park

Today marks a big shift in scenery as you travel deeper into Tanzania’s wilderness. The drive from Mikumi to Ruaha National Park covers 180 miles (290 km) and takes about 7 hours. The first part of the journey is on paved roads, but the final stretch to Ruaha involves gravel roads, so having a 4x4 vehicle is highly recommended for a smoother ride.

Ruaha is one of Tanzania’s best-kept secrets—less crowded than Serengeti but equally rich in wildlife. It is home to over 10,000 elephants, making it one of the largest elephant sanctuaries in Africa. You’re also likely to spot wild dogs, a rare sight in many other parks. Another highlight is the greater kudu, a spiral-horned antelope found in large numbers here.

Stay at Ruaha River Lodge ($150/night) for comfort and great river views, or camp at Mwagusi Safari Camp ($40/night) for an authentic bush experience. Park entry is $35 per person per day.

Game drives in Ruaha offer a sense of untouched wilderness, with rugged landscapes and dramatic sunsets. The park’s remote feel is ideal for travellers seeking solitude and raw natural beauty. Whether you're photographing lions on the prowl or simply soaking in the serenity, Ruaha promises unforgettable moments.

Day 6: Continue Exploring Ruaha National Park

Today is all about diving deeper into the wild beauty of Ruaha National Park, one of Tanzania’s best-kept secrets. With over 10,000 elephants roaming its vast plains and woodlands, this park offers an authentic African safari experience away from the crowds.

The day begins early with a morning game drive, usually between 6:30 AM and 11:00 AM, when animals are most active. You’ll spot lions lounging under acacia trees, massive herds of elephants moving across the landscape, and maybe even the rare African wild dog, which is often seen in Ruaha more than in other parks.

After returning to your lodge or camp for lunch, you’ll head out again in the late afternoon for another game drive until sunset. These drives allow you to see nocturnal animals starting their nightly routines. Don’t forget your binoculars—Ruaha is home to over 570 bird species, making it a paradise for birdwatchers.

If your accommodation offers walking safaris, take advantage of this unique opportunity to learn about animal tracks, plants, and survival tactics directly from expert guides.

Food at lodges and camps is freshly prepared, featuring hearty stews, grilled meats, and warm bread. Since refill stations are limited, always carry reusable water bottles during drives.

Ruaha delivers a truly unforgettable safari experience with fewer tourists and raw wilderness.

Day 7: Drive to Iringa via Makambako

Leaving the rugged wilderness of Ruaha National Park, today’s journey takes you north toward Iringa, covering approximately 200 miles (320 km) and taking around 8 hours by road. While long, this scenic drive offers beautiful views of rolling hills, tea plantations, and small villages, giving you a glimpse into rural Tanzanian life.

Before leaving Ruaha, ensure your rental car is fully fueled—fuel stations become sparse as you move inland. Around midday, stop in Makambako, a small town known for its roadside eateries and rest spots. Grab a quick bite or stock up on snacks for the road ahead.

If travelling between November and April, consider stopping at Kitulo National Park, also known as the “Garden of God.” Famous for its wildflower meadows, this lesser-known park bursts into color during the rainy season, offering a peaceful detour before reaching Iringa.

Upon arrival in Iringa, settle into your accommodation. Iringa Serena Hotel ($80/night) is a top choice for comfort and excellent service, while budget travellers can opt for Ukunda Hotel ($25/night). Try nyama choma (grilled meat) with ugali (maize porridge), a staple dish for around $6 per plate at many local restaurants.

This leg of the trip marks a shift from wild landscapes to more tranquil countryside, setting the stage for the next part of your adventure.

Day 8: Drive to Njombe via Matema Hot Spring

Today’s route takes you from Iringa to Njombe, covering around 100 miles (160 km) and taking approximately 4 hours by road. As you travel southwest, the terrain becomes greener and more mountainous, offering stunning views of tea and coffee plantations. This leg of the journey is shorter than previous drives, allowing for a relaxed pace and time to enjoy scenic stops.

One must-see along the way is Matema Hot Springs, a hidden gem near Lake Malawi's shores. These naturally warm springs offer a refreshing dip after days of driving and exploring. The lake is home to fish eagles, often soaring above the water or heard calling in the distance.

For accommodations, Matema Guest House ($30/night) offers a cozy, budget-friendly stay, while Lakeview Resort ($70/night) provides eco-lodge comforts with beautiful lake views.

Day 9: Cross Border to Malawi or Return to Mbeya

Depending on your travel plans, you now have two options: cross into Malawi or continue exploring Tanzania by returning to Mbeya.

If choosing to cross into Malawi, the nearest border post is Songwe, just 30 miles (50 km) from Njombe. Ensure you carry your passport, visa (if required), and proof of yellow fever vaccination. Border crossings can sometimes be slow, so allow plenty of time. Once in Malawi, you can explore destinations like Lilongwe or Lake Malawi, famous for its clear waters and lakeside relaxation.

Alternatively, if you’re continuing your road trip in Tanzania, head to Mbeya, a key city in the country’s south. It is about 120 miles (190 km) from Njombe and a 4-hour drive. Mbeya is a gateway to southern Tanzania and offers comfortable accommodations such as Mbeya Hotel ($45/night) or Green Hills Lodge ($90/night).

While in Mbeya, try chicha (amaranth leaves) with beans—a flavorful and nutritious local dish available at roadside restaurants for around $5–$7.

Whether you explore Malawi or return to Tanzania’s interior, Day 9 marks a turning point in your journey, bringing you closer to the final stretch of your adventure.

Day 10: Drive Back to Dar es Salaam or Fly Directly Home

On the final full day of your road trip, you have two choices: drive back to Dar es Salaam or fly directly home from Julius Nyerere International Airport.

If driving, the distance from Mbeya to Dar es Salaam is about 500 miles (800 km), and the journey takes approximately 12 hours. This is a long but manageable drive, especially if you start early. Along the way, you’ll pass through several towns where you can refuel and grab meals. Though some sections may be rough, the Central Highway is the main route, so drive carefully.

Alternatively, flying is a much quicker option. If you’ve returned to Mbeya, you can drive back to Dar es Salaam or fly directly from Mbeya Airport if commercial flights are available. Otherwise, return to Julius Nyerere International Airport in Dar es Salaam for your departure flight.

End your trip with a delicious meal at The Fish Market, where you can enjoy grilled lobster for $15 per pound —a perfect farewell feast.

This final day wraps up your incredible 10-day journey across Tanzania’s diverse landscapes—from Zanzibar’s beaches to Ruaha’s wild heart and beyond.

Best Time for a Tanzania Road Trip: Weather, Rainfall, and Key Considerations

Planning a road trip across Tanzania means considering its diverse climates—from the coastal humidity of Zanzibar to the dry savannahs of Ruaha and Serengeti. The best time for a Tanzania road trip is during the dry season, from June to October, when roads are more passable, wildlife viewing is at its peak, and temperatures are relatively mild.

During this period, average daytime temperatures range between 25°C (77°F) and 30°C (86°F) inland, while coastal areas like Dar es Salaam and Zanzibar can feel hotter and more humid, with temperatures often reaching 32°C (90°F). Nighttime cools significantly in highland and safari regions, sometimes dropping as low as 12°C (54°F) —especially in Ngorongoro or the southern highlands like Iringa.

The short rains occur from late October to December, bringing brief afternoon showers that usually don’t disrupt travel too much. However, depending on their condition, some rural roads may become muddy or impassable.

The long rainy season runs from March to May, making many unpaved roads difficult or even impossible to navigate. Heavy rainfall can cause flooding during these months, especially in southern Tanzania and near Lake Victoria. Temperatures during this time remain warm, averaging around 28°C (82°F), but high humidity makes it feel much hotter.

Zanzibar and the coast receive the heaviest rains during this period, with monthly rainfall peaking at over 300mm in April. In contrast, northern and central Tanzania experience less rain, around 100–150mm per month during the wettest weeks.

If planning a safari-focused road trip, aim for June to September when animals gather around water sources, making game viewing excellent. This is also the coolest part of the year, ideal for long drives and outdoor activities.

In summary, June through October is the optimal window for a smooth, enjoyable road trip across Tanzania. Dry, sunny days, comfortable nights, and accessible roads make this the most favourable time to explore the country by car.

Tanzania Road Trip: FAQs

Is it safe to drive across Tanzania, especially with children?

Driving across Tanzania can be a rewarding experience, but it requires careful planning. Road conditions vary; while major highways are generally in good shape, rural roads may be poorly maintained with potholes and limited signage. Night driving is discouraged due to inadequate lighting and increased risks of encountering unmarked obstacles or wildlife. Families should plan shorter driving segments, incorporate regular breaks, and ensure children are securely fastened in appropriate car seats.

What travel insurance is recommended for a Tanzanian road trip?

Starting October 1, 2024, all foreign visitors to Zanzibar are required to obtain mandatory Inbound Travel Insurance from the Zanzibar Insurance Corporation (ZIC). This policy, costing $44 per adult and $22 for minors aged 3–17, provides coverage for up to 92 days. It includes protection for medical emergencies, accidents, emergency evacuations, lost luggage, passport loss, and repatriation in the event of death.

Even if you already have international travel insurance, this local policy is compulsory and must be purchased separately. The insurance can be acquired online through the official Zanzibar tourism website, where you'll receive a QR code to present upon arrival.

While travel insurance isn't mandatory for mainland Tanzania, it's highly recommended to cover unforeseen incidents like medical emergencies, trip cancellations, or vehicle-related issues.

For more information or to purchase the required insurance, visit the official Zanzibar tourism website.

Are there specific considerations for traveling with kids in Tanzania?

Absolutely. When traveling with children, choose family-friendly accommodations with amenities like child-safe environments and kid-oriented activities. Plan your itinerary for shorter travel times and engaging stops to entertain children. It's also essential to carry a well-stocked medical kit and ensure that vaccinations are up to date.

What are the road conditions like in Tanzania?

Road conditions in Tanzania vary widely. Major highways connecting cities like Arusha and Dar es Salaam are generally well-maintained. However, rural roads can be challenging, with potholes, unmarked speed bumps, and limited signage. During the rainy season, some roads may become impassable. It's advisable to use a 4x4 vehicle for such terrains and to plan routes carefully.

Is it advisable to self-drive or hire a driver in Tanzania?

Both options have merits. Self-driving offers flexibility and the freedom to explore at your own pace. However, hiring a local driver can be beneficial due to their familiarity with the roads, local traffic laws, and potential language barriers. For families, having an additional driver allows parents to focus on the children and the scenery without the stress of navigation.

What should I pack for a road trip with kids to Tanzania?

Essential items include:

Medical kit: Include medications for common ailments, insect repellent, and first-aid supplies.

Snacks and water: Keep a supply of non-perishable snacks and bottled water.

Entertainment: Bring books, games, and electronic devices to keep children occupied during long drives.

Sun protection: Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses are crucial.

Documentation: Carry copies of passports, insurance policies, and emergency contact information.

Are there any health precautions I should take before traveling?

Consult a healthcare provider about necessary vaccinations, such as yellow fever, hepatitis A and B, and typhoid. Malaria prophylaxis is also recommended. Ensure that children are up to date on routine vaccinations. It's also wise to carry a medical kit tailored to your family's needs.

How can I ensure the safety of my family during the trip?

Safety measures include:

Vehicle maintenance: Ensure your vehicle is in good condition, with a spare tire and necessary tools.

Avoid night driving: It's best to travel during daylight hours due to poor lighting and increased risks.

Secure accommodations: Choose reputable lodgings with good reviews.

Stay informed: Keep abreast of local news and advisories.

Emergency contacts: Have a list of emergency numbers, including local hospitals and your country's embassy.

What are the legal requirements for driving in Tanzania?

Drivers must possess a valid international driving permit and a national driver's license. They must drive on the left-hand side of the road. Seat belts are mandatory, and using mobile phones while driving is prohibited unless using a hands-free device. Drivers must know local traffic laws and adhere to speed limits to avoid fines.

Are there specific destinations in Tanzania that are particularly family-friendly?

Destinations like the Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Crater, and Lake Manyara offer family-friendly safari experiences with opportunities to see diverse wildlife. Zanzibar provides beautiful beaches and cultural experiences. When planning, consider your children's interests and stamina and choose activities and accommodations that cater to families.

Conclusion: Why Tanzania Should Be Your Next Road Trip

From Zanzibar's spice-scented air to Ruaha's golden plains, Tanzania offers a sensory feast for every traveller. With careful planning, a 10-day road trip can take you across islands, forests, lakes, and savannas – all while connecting with warm, welcoming people.