Exotic Christmas & New Year for Solo Travelers: Escape to Zanzibar, Kilimanjaro & Safari
From €3250
12 Days / 11 Nights
Zanzibar, Stone Town – Tarangire – Lake Manyara – Serengeti – Ngorongoro Crater – Lake Chala – Mt Kilimanjaro – Zanzibar, Nungwi
Dates: 21 December 2023 – 1 January 2024
Number of travelers: minimum 4 – maximum 12 people
Solo traveler? We created the trip of your life for you, and the perfect way to end 2023. Is there a better way to celebrate Christmas and New Year than among the wild lions and surrounded by the tropical palm beaches of Africa?
This wonderful adventure is only open for singles (solo travelers). No families or couples will be accepted. But feel free to bring a couple of your friends along.
We organize this adventure because we know how difficult it can be to find a nice and affordable safari when you are a single traveler. Single room supplements are high. Families or couples will not always feel inclusive to a random single man or woman in their group. You might not feel comfortable. The reality is that 4-wheel drive jeeps are made for 6 people and you don’t want to rent the entire Land Cruiser and cover the guide service all by yourself. So, we have you covered now!
You will never forget this trip, you will make new friends for life and create memories together, you will connect to like-minded globetrotters who might be happy to support all your crazy (for most people in this world) travel ideas and discover new horizons with you for many more years to come.
At the same time, we guarantee your personal space and privacy by securing single rooms in our lodges for you only. Mingle with travel buddies, or have your own space whenever you want – we have also taken care of that.
This special exclusive safari is perfect for you! It will bring you an exciting mix of safari, game drives, mountains, tribal African culture, beach life, fishing, swimming and sailing, fine dining and parties.
Day 1 (21 Dec 2023). Arrival to Zanzibar. Introductory Dinner & Meet your travel buddies
- Activities: Sunset Viewing, Introductory Dinner
Welcome to Zanzibar! Upon your arrival at the main island of the archipelago, our driver will pick you up at Zanzibar Airport and transfer you to a boutique Zanzibari-style hotel in the heart of Stone Town. This is a day of arrival for all tour members, everyone will land at different time and will be picked by us personally.
For dinner, our guide will escort you to one of the most iconic restaurants in Stone Town for the introductory dinner, where you will get acquainted with your travel buddies whom you will share the next 11 days of unforgettable adventure with.
In a traditional Roshani (name of one of the architectural styles of the mansion houses of cosmopolitan Zanzibar in the 19th century) private area, you will be treated to 3-course menu and entertained with music, poetry, and the sheer pleasure of beautiful conversation, sitting in a traditional way on the cushions by low tables. The musicians of the Dhow Countries Music Academy also come over during the evening to Roshani to play several traditional Taarab songs.
If you arrive in the daytime or in the late afternoon, we will make sure you will make it for spectacular African sunset from the rooftop bar in Stone Town before an introductory dinner. If you arrive late in the evening and miss an introductory dinner, no worries: we will happily take care of your late dinner served in your room, and you still can catch up with your friendly group tomorrow!
- Overnight: Shaba Boutique Hotel
- Meal plan: dinner
Day 2 (22 Dec 2023). Prison Island, Nakupenda Sandbank & Stone Town
Activities:
- Boat Trip & Interaction with Giant Tortoises
- Sandbank Seafood party
- Snorkeling and Swimming
- Stone Town sightseeing
Prison Island
After breakfast, our guide will meet you at your hotel reception and walk you to the seafront, where our today’s adventure begin. Around 40-minutes motor boat ride will take us to Prison Island, also known as Changuu Island, where we will closely interact with the most iconic creatures of Zanzibar, giant Seychelles tortoises, which can be hand-fed with leaves and stroked.
The fauna of Prison island also includes peacocks, fluffy pigeons and dwarf antelopes (duikers). Our guide will tell you the unusual history of the island and the origin of its name.
Nakupenda Sandbank
Next, you will sail to the sandbank with a beautiful and romantic name Nakupenda. Nakupenda literally translates from Swahili as “I love you”. It is also known as a “disappearing island”, because it completely hides under the water at high tide. But we will arrive here right on time, during low tide, to enjoy snorkeling, dazzling white sand, and turquoise warm ocean.
The highlight of the program is a sandbank seafood party, with freshly grilled fish and seafood, side dishes of Tanzanian cuisine, local seasonal fruit and a variety of drinks.
Stone Town
Thereafter, your captain will take you back to Unguja, the main island of archipelago, and, with our dedicated Zanzibar guide by your side, you’ll walk through the labyrinths of narrow streets of the heart of Zanzibar.
Old city, Stone Town, is listed among UNESCO World Heritage Sites. You will see pre-colonial architecture, local restaurants, street vendors, Zanzibar street food, a vibrant market, narrow stone streets and, of course, legendary massive carved doors of Zanzibar. You may take a look at the souvenir shops and jewelry stores to admire the beauty and uniqueness of tanzanites, precious stones found exclusively in Tanzania. Marvel at the colorful paintings of Zanzibar artists, hear about the dark pages of history of the slave trade, see (from outside and inside) the family house where the Queen’s legend, Freddie Mercury, was born and raised.
At the end of the day you will observe the sunset from one of the Stone Town’s famous rooftop bars.
- Overnight: Shaba Boutique Hotel
- Meal plan: breakfast, lunch
Day 3 (23 Dec 2023). Zanzibar – Arusha – Tarangire – Lake Manyara
- Activities: Game Drive in Tarangire, Night Game Drive in Lake Manyara
Exceptional opportunity: Two National Parks in one day!
Your journey to the heart of Africa begins with an early (around 5:30-6:00 AM) pickup at your hotel’s reception by our driver. Then you will head to the airport for a morning flight to Arusha, where our safari driver guide will be eagerly waiting to take you on an exciting trip to Tarangire National Park.
In this true “land of the giants,” you will be amazed by the large herds of elephants and towering baobabs that dominate the park’s landscape. Keep your eyes peeled for various antelopes, giraffes, baboons, lions, warthogs, exotic birds, and other incredible wildlife as you embark on an unforgettable game drive through the park. Your lunch will be served at a picturesque picnic site with the Tarangire River view.
At the start of the evening, you will check-in and enjoy a dinner at your safari lodge, perfectly located in a protected wildlife management area, before the ranger will pick you up for another special experience.
A night game drive in Lake Manyara National Park provides a rare opportunity to board specialized safari vehicle equipped with a spotlight, and look for various nocturnal carnivores on the prowl in search of prey.
- Overnight: Africa Safari Lake Manyara
- Meal plan: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Day 4 (24 Dec 2023). Lake Manyara – Serengeti. Christmas Eve!
- Activities: En-route Game Drive on the way to Serengeti, Game Drive in Serengeti Central
Get ready to hit the road as you embark on the journey to the most significant destination of your trip.
Translated from the Masai language, or Maa, the name Serengeti stands for “endless plains”, and it is for a reason. Serengeti National Park voted the world’s best safari destination for several years in a row. The abundance of large animals, including rare predators, and a huge variety of birds will surprise even the most seasoned travelers. It is here that you have every chance to witness the grandiosity of the largest legendary Great Migration of animals. Hold your breath, for this unprecedented privilege is sure to become one of the most memorable events in your life.
Your day will finish with a celebratory Christmas Eve dinner in a stylish safari lodge. Your lodge for tonight is nested in the heart of the mighty Serengeti, offering the sounds of the wild in the night and early morning game viewing opportunities.
- Overnight: Serengeti Safari Lodge
- Meal plan: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Day 5 (25 Dec 2023). Serengeti – Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Masai Boma & Christmas in Africa!
- Activities: Game Drive, Hot Air Balloon Safari (optionally), Masai tribe excursion
Optional Hot Air Balloon Safari
Get yourself a very special Christmas gift, memories of which will stay with you forever! Take off into the air over the greatness of Serengeti together with the rising sun. You will have the best chance of seeing nocturnal predators and the morning lion hunt. From the balloon basket you will admire countless herds of zebras, wildebeests, elephants. The view of the morning savanna, flooded with the first rays of the rising sun, will strike your imagination. After landing, experience the joy of a tastefully served bush breakfast and champagne to celebrate the beginning of a new, such a significant day in your life.
Today the road takes us towards the stunning Ngorongoro Conservation Area, with a spectacular en-route game drive in the mesmerizing Serengeti. Witness the stunning Serengeti flora and fauna in all their glory and capture breathtaking photos.
As we continue our journey, we will enjoy a delightful picnic lunch before delving deep into the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Here, the Masai men graze their cattle and the Masai women collect wild honey, all while coexisting in perfect harmony with the magnificent zebras, giraffes, wildebeest and other animals that freely roam around.
To literally touch the African culture, we will visit a traditional Masai village, located right onto the territory of Ngorongoro. Immerse yourself in their unique culture and customs, as you witness the daily life of these authentic African people. Explore the traditional Masai houses, admire their clothing and jewelry, and even participate in their dances and songs. Find out how Masai celebrate Christmas nowadays, and be treated to Masai’s traditional open-fire meat feast. Only and exclusively today!
- Overnight: Ngorongoro Wild Camp
- Meal plan: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Day 6 (26 Dec 2023). Ngorongoro Crater – Moshi
- Activities: Game Drive
This morning your journey starts with a panoramic drive to the crater viewpoint, where you’ll be captivated by the stunning views over the world-famous Ngorongoro Crater and the magic lakes on its floor. Get ready for an exhilarating game drive in the crater, where you’ll encounter an abundance of wild animals including majestic lion prides, rare black rhinos, graceful zebras, and playful hippos. As you explore this natural wonder, your expert guide will provide you with fascinating insights into the area’s unique ecosystem and wildlife.
After your thrilling game drive, enjoy a leisurely picnic lunch near the tranquil hippo lake. Then you will be taken back to Arusha, where you will say good-bye to your driver guide and depart on a private transfer to Kilimanjaro region. Take in the stunning sights of Mt Kilimanjaro as you head to Moshi town for the next leg of your adventure.
- Overnight: Chanya Lodge
- Meal plan: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Day 7 (27 Dec 2023). Moshi – Lake Chala
- Activities: River Bed Trail, Kayaking, Bonfire
Wake up and greet the day! If the sky is clear this morning, take in the stunning view of snow-covered Kibo peak (the highest point of Mt Kilimanjaro) just outside your hotel. After breakfast, you will be transferred to enchanting corner of Tanzania, home to one of its hidden treasures, Lake Chala. Lake Chala is located at the Tanzanian-Kenyan border, which means you will officially “visit” Kenyan territory while kayaking, crossing the water border.
This captivating lake is fed by underground springs flowing from Mt Kilimanjaro, resulting in its mesmerizing turquoise blue and green waters. Situated on the rim of this mystical caldera lake, with a backdrop of dramatic volcanoes, the Lake Chala Safari Lodge, your tonight’s destination, offers a haven of tranquility where you can immerse yourself in the beauty of the African bush. From your accommodation, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views that encompass the tranquil lake, the majestic Kilimanjaro, and the sweeping Chala savanna. It’s a place where memories are made, and the essence of Tanzania’s natural wonders can be truly experienced.
Today we will follow a captivating River Bed Trail, which meanders through a beautifully sculpted and diverse “dry” river bed. The trail then leads up the Camp hill to the Kenyan border and along the edge of a stunning crater lake. Along the way, we will take in breathtaking views of the surrounding bush, the foothills of Kilimanjaro, and the mighty mountain itself.
Time permitting, today you will also experience the thrill of kayaking in Lake Chala. You will admire this fun watersport as you glide through the magic turquoise water of this crater lake. Alternatively, kayaking can be done the next day (or even both days, if you have enough time and energy). Call it a day near a cozy bonfire with a glass of good wine in a company of your new friends.
- Overnight: Lake Chala Safari Lodge
- Meal plan: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Day 8 (28 Dec 2023). Lake Chala – Moshi
- Activities: Chala Hill Walk, Kayaking
The Chala Hill walk is most enjoyable in the early morning. Well worth the climb, it offers us stunning views across the lake to Kenya, to Lake Jipe, to Mt Kilimanjaro and the vastness of Chala land. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
After your lunch at a breathtaking viewpoint of the lodge (if you have not yet experienced the thrill of kayaking in Lake Chala the previous day, or if you want to do it again), grab a paddle and glide through, taking in the spectacle of surroundings and greeting Tanzanian and Kenyan local fishermen in their wooden fishing vessels.
Early in the evening, you will be transferred back to Moshi town, where dinner and soft bed will be waiting for you before new adventures of tomorrow.
- Overnight: Chanya Lodge
- Meal plan: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Day 9 (29 Dec 2023). Mt Kilimanjaro. Marangu Cultural Tour or Shira Plateau Jeep Ascend and Hike
- Activities included: Waterfall Hike, Coffee Tour and Cultural Excursion
- Alternative activities: Kilimanjaro Jeep Ascent to Shira Plateau and a Hike, 3500 m (optionally)
Depart for exciting adventures at the foot of Mt. Kilimanjaro. Walk along the slopes of the highest peak in Africa to reach a picturesque waterfall located at an altitude of about 1500 m. Our local guide, an indigenous Chagga tribesman, will take you on a coffee tour and in-depth cultural excursions immersing you in the daily life of the Chagga mountain tribe and the thrilling history of old Masai-Chagga conflicts. Taste freshly-cooked local Tanzanian dishes in the mountain village surrounded by banana plantations, and enjoy steaming cup of handmade organic coffee.
Optional Shira Plateau Jeep Ascend and Hike
Alternatively, choose our one-day adventure to Shira Plateau at an altitude 3400 m.a.s.l.
After breakfast at the hotel, we get to our jeep and go to one of the Kilimanjaro National Park entrance gates.
Kilimanjaro is a majestic dormant volcano, the highest mountain in Africa and the highest free-standing mountain in the world, 5895 meters above sea level. It has three volcanic cones: Kibo, Mawenzi and Shira, to which we will go trekking today. The summit of Kilimanjaro is covered with snow and glaciers, which, unfortunately, are disappearing at dismaying speed. Hurry up to become one of the last luckies who had a chance to admire the snows of the great Kilimanjaro!
After arrival at Londorossi gate of Kilimanjaro National Park (about 2 hours on the way, altitude 2250 m.a.s.l.), we ascend by jeep to the Morum Barrier point at an altitude of about 3400 m.a.s.l. From here we start trekking on the Shira plateau to Shira-1 Camp. The total trekking time is from 1.5 to 2 hours, the speed is regulated by mountain crew according to our wishes and possibilities. We walk along the moorland, observe mountain flora and extraordinary landscapes. After a picnic lunch on the mountain, we trek back to the Morum Barrier point.
Transfer to Londorossi gate by jeep.
At the end of the day, you will say good-bye to your guides, and depart on a private transfer to Kilimanjaro Airport, from where you will fly to Zanzibar Island for the next leg of your adventure.
Upon landing in Zanzibar Airport, our Zanzibar driver will meet and greet you, and smoothly transfer you to your hotel located in Nungwi, at the most paradisial beach in the North coast of Zanzibar. Today you are free to go to an a-la carte restaurant by the ocean side of your choice with your new friends.
- Overnight: Langi Langi beach Bungalows
- Meal plan: breakfast, lunch
Day 10 (30 Dec 2023). Beach day in Nungwi and Swimming with the Horses
- Activities: Beach Leisure, Swimming with Horses (optional)
Enjoy your relaxed beach day in Nungwi at your own pace, and enjoy short (around 30 minutes) but extremely memorable experience of swimming with pedigree horses in an Indian Ocean.
Optional Swimming with Horses
Swimming alongside horses is an unforgettable adventure. We swim with the horses without saddles, using only natural halters. Whether you’re a first-timer, or an experienced rider, you can participate, as long as you are capable of swimming. Swimming with horses will be enjoyed during high tide. At the conclusion of the swim, our guides will capture a few great photographs for you to cherish, but please understand that extended photoshoots and posing are not permitted.
If you are an experienced rider and want to explore more of Zanzibar on horseback, we might have something special for you – just let us know. If you are looking for more fun activities in Zanzibar to do on this day, we have a bulk offers for you – just let us know.
- Overnight: Langi Langi beach Bungalows
- Meal plan: breakfast
Day 11 (31 Dec 2023). Deep sea fishing. New Year 2024 Beach Party!
- Activities: Traditional Deep Sea Fishing, Beach Lunch; New Year party on the tropical beach
Fishing is one of the truly unforgettable experiences that Zanzibar can offer its guests. Adventure searchers love this special deep sea fishing in the North of Zanzibar with our professional local fisherman who spends most of his time on the ocean! You can expect a big catch, which may consist of fish such as bonito, barracuda, yellowfin tuna, marlin and other deep-sea fish species.
This season is a season of striped, blue and black marlin, sword fish. You can also catch dorado (mahi-mahi), royal mackerel, barracuda, wahoo.
You don’t need to be an experienced fisherman to join this activity. Even if it is the first fishing trip in your life, you will have a lot of fun, learn several local fishing techniques from our fisherman, feel the whole local flavor and immerse yourself in a daily life of an authentic Zanzibar fisherman.
But wait, there is more! We will organize you a beach lunch with your fresh catch of the day, cooked by a talented chef. Have your meal while enjoying Nungwi beach. Spend the last day of the passing year in a special, fun and delicious way!
To celebrate New 2024 Year, we will plunge into the nightlife of Zanzibar during an explosive New year’s Eve party at Kendwa Beach. Dance to Reggae, Bongo Flavor, Hip Hop and R&B, electronic music. Indulge in fresh cocktails, sushi, pizza, BBQ and shisha. Join Zanzibar’s biggest cast for a thrilling beach countdown and acrobatic performances. Customize your celebration with special dinner and cocktail packages, all including soft drinks and party favors.
Create memories with us!
- Overnight: Langi Langi beach Bungalows
- Meal plan: breakfast, lunch
Day 12 (1 Jan 2024). Departure or extend your stay in Zanzibar
- Activities: Beach Leisure (morning), transfer to airport
Extend your beach stay to experience more of Zanzibar. You can extend you stay in one of the hotels of your choice in Zanzibar – we will happily assist you with your choice and booking.
Or, if your vacation days end here, we will provide transfer to Zanzibar airport for your flight back home.
- Meal plan: breakfast
What’s included:
- All airport pick-ups and drop-offs for each tour member
- All transfers according to the itinerary,
- Game Drives in fully-equipped 4WD Toyota Land Cruisers with a pop-up roof
- All activities according to the itinerary (except those marked as “optional”)
- Accommodation in lodges according to the itinerary on single basis
- All entrance fees to the national park and conservation areas
- All government taxes and fees
- Meals according to the itinerary
- Chilled drinking water during the safari
- Full-time services of a professional English-speaking driver-guide
- Binoculars (1 per vehicle)
- 24/7 information support from your travel manager and safari coordinator
- Single supplement
- All reservation, travel consultation & admin fees
What’s not included:
- Local flights.
Read here how we can help you to book the cheapest current flight rates. - Shira Plateau Day Trip (€180 per person)
- Serengeti Hot Air Balloon Safari (€550 per person)
- Swimming with horses (€50)
- Some meals, that are not marked as “included”; extra drinks ordered by you in the lodges
- Tipping for the driver guide and other guides (at your own discretion)
- Visa ($50 on arrival or online at (https://visa.immigration.go.tz/), medical insurance
| Who? | Price per person |
|---|---|
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Regular Rate (Book before 21 Nov 2023) |
€ 3250 |
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Last Call (Book before 21 Dec 2023) |
€ 3375 |
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The minimum number of guests for this tour is 4 travellers |
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