8 Day Zanzibar safari holiday with Mafia Island, luxury trip
Dive in barefoot luxury and marine wonder on this exquisite Zanzibar safari holiday paired with wild Mafia Island adventures. From Stone Town’s timeless charm to swimming with whale sharks and ziplining through spice-scented forests, every moment is curated for elegance and thrill. This Zanzibar safari holiday is perfect for luxury seekers who crave ocean magic, cultural depth, and eco-adventures off the beaten path.
Did you know that Zanzibar and Mafia Island together create one of the most exclusive and escapes in East Africa? This luxury Zanzibar safari holiday combines heritage, ocean adventures, and island serenity into one unforgettable journey. Over eight perfectly crafted days, you’ll explore Stone Town’s Arab-European fusion, set sail on a champagne dhow cruise, and venture beneath the waves on a submarine safari. The adventure deepens with deep sea fishing, spice plantation VIP experiences, and soaring zipline canopy tours. Then, fly off to pristine Mafia Island for once-in-a-lifetime encounters like swimming with whale sharks and bioluminescent kayaking under the full moon. You’ll paddle through mangrove forests, visit ancient Chole Island, and unwind in barefoot luxury surrounded by coastal beauty. Designed for high-end travelers with a love for both nature and culture, this Zanzibar safari holiday goes far beyond the beach—it’s an intimate, indulgent, and extraordinary experience that will leave you craving more from the hidden corners of paradise
Tour highlights
Day 1: Arrival in Stone Tow, Transfer to Stone Town
Day 2: Private Stone Town Tour with Evening Champagne Dhow Cruise
Day 3: Submarine Safari with Deep Sea Fishing
Day 4: Private Island Picnic at Mnemba Atoll
Day 5: Spice Plantation VIP Experience with Zanzibar Canopy Adventures
Day 6: Transfer to Mafia Island for Whale Shark Swimming
Day 7: Kayaking Through Mangroves and Full Moon Bioluminescence Tour
Day 8: Chole Island Cultural Tour and Departure
Price Includes:
- All airport pick up and transfers in private car
- Transport and wildlife drives in modified 4 x 4 Land Cruiser
- Services of a professional English speaking safari guide
- Drinking water
- Value Added Tax by Tanzania Revenue Authority
Price Excludes:
- International Flights
- All items of a personal nature
- Gratuities for safari guide and lodge staff ( please tip separately)
- Travel insurance if needed
- Visa fee ( 50 US$ /100 US$ for American or Irish Passport holders – to be paid upon arrival)
- Drinks and beverages in lodges
Itinary in details
- Day1Arrival in Stone Tow, Transfer to Stone Town
Begin Your Zanzibar safari holiday with a warm welcome at Abeid Amani Karume International Airport, followed by a private transfer to your boutique hotel in historic Stone Town, As you settle in, the charm of this UNESCO World Heritage Site unfolds narrow alleys, carved wooden doors, and the scent of spices in the air. Enjoy a relaxed evening soaking in the coastal ambiance and preparing for the adventures ahead. This first day of your Zanzibar safari holiday sets the tone for a journey that blends culture, luxury, and natural beauty in perfect harmony
- Day2Private Stone Town Tour with Evening Champagne Dhow Cruise
Today’s Zanzibar safari holiday experience begins with a private guided tour through Stone Town’s labyrinthine streets. Discover the House of Wonders, the Old Slave Market, and vibrant local bazaars. In the evening, board a traditional wooden dhow for a champagne sunset cruise along the Indian Ocean. As the sun dips below the horizon, toast to the magic of Zanzibar with sparkling wine and soft Swahili music. This romantic evening marks a luxurious highlight of your Zanzibar safari holiday, blending history, elegance, and coastal serenity
- Day3Submarine Safari with Deep Sea Fishing
Dive into the marine wonders of your Zanzibar safari holiday with a submarine safari, offering panoramic views of coral reefs and vibrant sea life from beneath the waves. Later, head out for a deep-sea fishing expedition in the Pemba Channel, where marlin, tuna, and sailfish await. With expert crew and top-tier equipment, this day is tailored for ocean lovers and thrill-seekers alike. Whether you're reeling in a big catch or marveling at underwater life, this marine-focused day of your Zanzibar safari holiday is both exhilarating and unforgettable
- Day4Private Island Picnic at Mnemba Atoll
Escape to paradise with a private island picnic at Mnemba Atoll, a pristine marine reserve and a jewel of your Zanzibar safari holiday. Arrive by speedboat to a secluded sandbank where turquoise waters and powdery white sands await. Snorkel among vibrant coral gardens, then indulge in a gourmet seafood lunch with chilled drinks under a shaded canopy. This exclusive experience offers barefoot luxury and unmatched tranquility, making it a standout moment in your Zanzibar safari holiday that feels like a dream come true
- Day5Spice Plantation VIP Experience with Zanzibar Canopy Adventures
Today’s Zanzibar safari holiday takes you deep into the island’s aromatic heart with a VIP spice plantation tour. Walk through lush groves of cloves, nutmeg, and vanilla while learning about their cultural and medicinal uses. After a flavorful farm-to-table lunch, gear up for a thrilling canopy adventure ziplining through treetops and walking suspended bridges with panoramic views. This day of your Zanzibar safari holiday blends sensory delight with adrenaline, offering a unique perspective on the island’s natural and cultural richness
- Day6Transfer to Mafia Island for Whale Shark Swimming
Your Zanzibar safari holiday continues with a scenic flight to Mafia Island, a hidden gem in Tanzania’s marine landscape. Upon arrival, you’ll be transferred to Afro Beach for a briefing before heading out to swim with the majestic whale sharks. These gentle giants glide gracefully through the warm waters, offering a rare and humbling encounter. With expert guides and conservation-focused practices, this day of your Zanzibar safari holiday is both awe-inspiring and eco-conscious, connecting you to the ocean in a deeply meaningful way
- Day7Kayaking Through Mangroves and Full Moon Bioluminescence Tour
Unveil the serene side of your Zanzibar safari holiday with a guided kayak tour through Mafia’s mangrove forests. Paddle through tranquil channels, spotting birds and marine life in a peaceful, untouched setting. As night falls, embark on a full moon bioluminescence tour where each stroke of your paddle lights up the water with glowing plankton. This magical phenomenon transforms your Zanzibar safari holiday into a surreal, starlit adventure, offering a rare glimpse into nature’s most enchanting light show
- Day8Chole Island Cultural Tour and Departure
Conclude your Zanzibar safari holiday with a cultural immersion on Chole Island, where Swahili traditions and ancient ruins tell stories of a rich past. Visit local artisans, explore coral-stone architecture, and learn about the island’s conservation efforts. After a heartfelt farewell lunch, transfer to Mafia Airport for your return flight. This final chapter of your Zanzibar safari holiday leaves you with lasting memories of luxury, discovery, and the soulful rhythm of East Africa’s coastal paradise