Tanzania was a dream come true, a journey we’d imagined since we were kids. The allure of the African wilderness, the vast savannas, and the thrill of seeing wildlife up close had been on our bucket list for as long as we could remember. The safari experience was truly the centerpiece, but this trip was about so much more. Stratos even took on an adventure challenge with a trek up Kilimanjaro’s Marangu Route, reaching Mandara Hut and experiencing the climb’s excitement firsthand.
With our son in tow, we were drawn to Tanzania’s blend of adventure and tranquility. This journey felt uniquely immersive, unlike any other trip, even Egypt, another African destination. Whether you’re a family, an adventure seeker, or someone looking to relax and soak in incredible landscapes, we hope this 11-day Tanzania itinerary offers you a roadmap for your unforgettable journey.
General Information
Travel Essentials: Travelers need a Visa to enter Tanzania. If you plan to visit Zanzibar during your trip, note that mandatory travel insurance has been required since October 1, 2024.
Currency: The currency in Tanzania is the Tanzanian Shilling (TZS), but US Dollars are widely accepted, especially in tourist areas, and in some places, they even accept Euros. For checking exchange rates, the XE Currency Converter is a helpful tool.
Electricity: Tanzania uses 230V, 50Hz, with British-style plug type G.
Telecommunications: Major providers include Vodacom, Airtel, Halotel, Tigo, and TTCL, with SIM cards available at airports. For reliable global data, consider an Airalo eSIM. With our code STRATO0588 you have a discount of 3 EUROS on your desired package.
Kilimanjaro: The iconic Mount Kilimanjaro, meaning “White Mountain” from the words kilima and njaro, is the tallest peak in Africa.
Language: The national language is Swahili, and many Tanzanians also speak English, especially in urban areas.
Union and Culture: Tanzania was formed by the union of Tanganyika and Zanzibar, with the name “Tan-Za-nia” derived from this union. The country is a melting pot of cultures and religions.
Zanzibar has a predominantly Muslim population due to the influence of Arab conquerors and traders, who established a significant presence on the island during the centuries of the Indian Ocean trade. On the mainland, Christianity is more prevalent, largely due to the influence of European colonizers and missionaries, such as the Portuguese, Germans, and later the British. Despite these differences, Tanzania is known for its harmonious coexistence between diverse religious and ethnic groups.
Interesting Facts: Tanzania is rich in biodiversity and is home to the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, and the spice island of Zanzibar, making it a top destination for natural wonders and cultural heritage.
Day 1: Athens to Kilimanjaro – The Journey Begins
We finally packed our bags, excitement at its peak, and headed to Athens’ Eleftherios Venizelos Airport, ready for our new adventure in Tanzania. After check-in, we boarded on our overnight flight with Ethiopian Airlines, which went smoothly. Our three-hour layover in Addis Ababa gave us just enough time to recharge before we set off on the second flight to Kilimanjaro International Airport.
Landing in Tanzania, and having our visas ready made the process quick, allowing us to pass quickly through immigration. Outside, our guides greeted us with friendly smiles, and we packed up the bus for Moshi. As we traveled, we soaked up our first sights of African life, busy markets, colorful roadside stalls, and distinctive local scenes that instantly set the mood.
By evening, we reached Kilemakyaro Lodge in Moshi. After a refreshing shower and unpacking, we relaxed, taking in the incredible view of Kilimanjaro in the distance. Dinner was the perfect end, quiet and surrounded by nature, as we looked forward to the next day’s adventures.
Day 2: Trekking the Marangu route on Kilimanjaro
We started our day early, waking up around 6 a.m. to enjoy breakfast before meeting our driver and guides at 7:30. They took us to Kilimanjaro National Park, where we registered and geared up for our trek. The anticipation grew as we set off, hoping to spot some Colobus monkeys along the way. Our goal for the day was to reach Mandara Hut at around 2,720 meters (8,924 ft).
The hike to Mandara took roughly four hours, allowing plenty of time for stops to rest, capture photos, and appreciate the unique ecosystem. Lucky for us, the weather held up beautifully, making the journey even more enjoyable. One highlight was seeing the rare Elephant Trunk Flower, a plant found only in the Kilimanjaro region, named for its striking resemblance to an elephant’s trunk.
Throughout the trek, our guides shared fascinating details about the area, the local tribes, the mountain’s ecology, and Tanzania in general. We learned that reaching Kilimanjaro’s summit ideally takes about 7 days with proper acclimatization, staying at each shelter overnight. The guides explained that porters are essential for summit climbs, as they carry vital supplies and equipment. We learned that the name Kilimanjaro itself comes from the Swahili words “kilima” (meaning “mountain”) and “njaro” (interpreted as “whiteness”), referring to the stunning year-round snow that crowns its summit. Also, we learned about the 3 top peaks, Kibo, the highest one at 5895m, Mawenzi at 5,149 m, and Shira, the lowest at 4,005m
Upon reaching Mandara Hut, we enjoyed our packed lunch, relaxed, and took more photos before starting our descent. The entire journey covered around 19 kilometers, wrapping up in about 8 hours. Tired but thrilled, we returned to Kilemakyaro Lodge, where we spent a peaceful evening, resting and reliving the highlights of an unforgettable day.
Day 3: Exploring Materuni waterfall, the Chagga tribe, and Kikuletwa hot springs
We started early, still a bit sore from the previous day but eager for new experiences. After breakfast, we set off for Materuni village, beginning with a scenic hike to the tallest waterfall in Tanzania. Along the trail, we met friendly locals, exchanging smiles and greetings, and felt immersed in village life. Reaching the powerful Materuni Waterfall, we paused to admire its stunning height, capturing photos and enjoying the cool mist. The entire hike, with stops, took about four hours, but every moment was worth it.
Next, we visited the Chagga tribe for an immersive coffee tour. We watched the full coffee-making process, from seed to steaming cup, learning Chagga’s secrets of roasting and grinding. We even joined them in traditional dances, enjoying the rhythm of their music. Over lunch, we tasted the local banana beer, a unique flavor, and shared a few items we brought along with the village kids. Our son, Jason, had fun handing out small gifts we packed for the children.
Our last stop was Kikuletwa Hot Springs. Though more “refreshing” than hot, the springs offered a relaxing finish to the day. The place was lively, with monkeys in the trees above and other travelers around, so we kept our belongings close. We swam, enjoyed our snacks, and soaked in the natural beauty before heading back to Moshi for our final night at the hotel.
Day 4: Hiking and kayaking at lake Chala
After packing our bags and enjoying a last breakfast at the lodge, we set off for our next adventure at Lake Chala. The area had a distinctly drier landscape, unlike our lush hikes from the days before. Our hike led us to a stunning viewpoint overlooking the lake, with sweeping views of the rugged terrain around.
On our way back, we explored a fascinating canyon with sculpted rock formations, just a short distance from the Kenyan border. The guide mentioned to us that Kenya was just 20 kilometers away by foot, a fact we kept in mind (but we didn’t attempt that hike!).
Finally, we reached the lake for our kayaking experience. Although swimming was off-limits due to the lake’s great depth, we enjoyed a peaceful paddle, soaking in the serene views and sounds of nature. After about 45 minutes, we returned and headed to a panoramic kiosk for our lunch with a breathtaking lake view.
With Lake Chala behind us, we went to Arusha, where we stayed overnight at Arusha Safari Lodge. Resting up here was essential, as we would start our much-anticipated safari the next morning, the experience we’d been dreaming of!
Day 5: Safari adventure at Ngorongoro crater and visit to the Maasai tribe
Our fifth day in Tanzania started at 3 AM to ensure that we would arrive at Ngorongoro Crater before the crowds. Sleepy but excited, we boarded our 4×4 safari vehicle and set off, stopping on our way for breakfast while enjoying a magnificent sunrise. After about three hours, we reached the park gates and began our exploration.
The safari kicked off with sightings of zebras, giraffes, and a majestic elephant, though the dense fog at higher altitudes initially obscured our view. As we descended into the crater, the landscape opened into the vast savanna, teeming with wildlife. Herds of zebras, wildebeests, buffaloes, and antelopes roamed freely, alongside warthogs and exotic birds. Our cameras couldn’t capture enough of this breathtaking scene, and we took moments to simply soak it all in.
Luck was on our side as we spotted six to seven lions lounging in different areas. The most thrilling encounter, however, was a wildcat poised to hunt, a suspenseful moment that didn’t culminate but left us in awe nonetheless. At a nearby lake, we marveled at flamingos and hippos, while a distant rhino almost completed our view of the Big Five (though we missed the elusive leopard).
Before leaving the park, we stopped by another lake for lunch while watching a hippo swimming nearby. It was a calm and enjoyable end to our safari experience. Jason was just as excited as we were, especially since we’d been preparing him for this day for months. As is typical with toddlers, he fell asleep halfway through the drive, but it didn’t stop him from enjoying the animals and the adventure when he was awake!
Next, we visited a Maasai village. The tribe welcomed us warmly with traditional dances, songs, and colorful attire. They showed us their homes, a modest school area, and animal enclosures, sharing stories about their customs and lifestyle. We gave school supplies, sweets, and food to the children, a touching moment that resonated deeply. However, the emphasis on selling souvenirs at inflated prices and persistent tipping requests left a slightly commercialized impression.
Despite this, we cherished the cultural exchange and recognized it as part of travel’s diverse experiences. After the village visit, we headed to the airport for our internal flight to Zanzibar, where relaxation awaited after our exhilarating mainland adventures.
Day 6: Exploring the historic Stone Town
This morning started a bit more leisurely, a welcome change after our packed itinerary. Refreshed, we enjoyed a delicious breakfast at the Maru Maru Hotel before meeting our guide, who introduced us to the unique charm of Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Walking through the narrow, labyrinthine streets, we felt like stepping back in time. Our guide shared the fascinating history behind Stone Town’s name, derived from the coral stone used to build its ancient structures. The blend of Swahili, Arab, Indian, and European influences is evident at every turn, from the ornate wooden doors to the intricate balconies.
We visited the Old Fort, a striking 17th-century structure built by the Omani Arabs, and the poignant site of the former slave market, where a small underground chamber bore witness to harrowing stories. Next, we strolled through the Darajani Market, alive with vibrant stalls selling fresh seafood, colorful spices, tropical fruits, and handmade textiles, a feast for the senses.
After soaking in the history and culture, we returned to our hotel to cool off and rest. The afternoon heat in Zanzibar is quite different from the mainland, with its high humidity making every break feel well-earned.
In the evening, the gentle sea breeze guided us along a scenic waterfront walk. We capped off the day with an indulgent dinner of sushi and fresh lobster, savoring the flavors of the Indian Ocean at a highly recommended local spot. For anyone visiting, a guided tour of Stone Town is a must. Beyond its historical sites, the city offers a rich tapestry of stories and a glimpse into Zanzibar’s diverse and complex heritage.
Day 7: Free day for shopping and relaxation
Today marked our first real free day since we arrived, offering the perfect chance to shop for souvenirs and local treasures. Shopping here isn’t just about picking things off the shelf, it’s a full experience with bargaining as an essential part. We saw some vendors drop prices by up to 70%, though others held firm, making the thrill of finding the best deal an adventure.
Stone Town’s market offered so much more than typical keepsakes; from hand-painted artwork, depicting local life and wildlife, to intricate wood carvings of masks, totems, and statues, each piece reflected Zanzibar’s unique art and cultural heritage. In addition to vibrant paintings, they had items that combined traditional styles with practical uses, perfect for unique gifts.
After a refreshing afternoon break, we headed to the hotel’s rooftop terrace for dinner. The evening was topped off with live traditional music, making for a relaxed, atmospheric end to our day.
Day 8: Transfer to a beachfront paradise
We woke up feeling refreshed, knowing our schedule had eased up. After enjoying our last breakfast at the Stone Town hotel, we strolled through the alleys one last time for some final souvenir shopping. Soon, it was time to board our bus and head to our beachfront resort in Matemwe, the stunning Sunshine Bay Zanzibar.
Upon arrival, we were thrilled with the hotel’s beauty, immaculate grounds, private beach, and three sparkling pools. After a quick orientation, we headed to our room, changed, and went straight to explore the beach. Though the tide phenomenon meant water levels varied throughout the day, the serene atmosphere made it magical.
In the evening, we dined by the pool, savoring the peaceful ambiance as we settled into the resort’s relaxing vibes.
Day 9: Exploring Kendwa and meeting Sea turtles
We began the day with a hearty breakfast at our hotel, indulging in delicious omelets and pancakes. Energized, we set off on our day trip, starting with a visit to a sea turtle sanctuary. For $10 per adult, we got to see, feed, and pet turtles, some of which were impressively large. While some visitors swam with the turtles, the murky water deterred us. The sanctuary also housed crocodiles and monkeys for an additional fee, but the experience overall felt underwhelming, and skipping it wouldn’t have been a loss.
Thankfully, the visit to Kendwa Beach made up for it. With its vast sandy shores and crystal-clear waters, it was the perfect spot for a relaxing beach day. We swam, strolled, and enjoyed light snacks while soaking in the beautiful surroundings. Staying until sunset, we were treated to a mesmerizing view as the day drew to a close. Returning to our hotel in the evening, we ended with another satisfying dinner.
Day 10: A Change of plans and resort bliss
Originally, we had planned an exciting dolphin safari at Mnemba Island. However, upon learning about the unethical practices involved, chasing and stressing dolphins by surrounding them with boats, we decided not to participate in such an activity. Instead, we spent a relaxing day at our beautiful resort.
The morning was all about unwinding, with countless dips in the pool. Jason couldn’t get enough of the water, splashing and laughing endlessly!
In the afternoon, we joined some locals for a friendly beach soccer game, creating cherished memories and building connections. With the pristine beach as our playground, it was a simple yet heartwarming moment. The evening was quiet and magical. We enjoyed a peaceful stroll along the shore, soaking in the ocean breeze, before indulging in another delicious dinner at the resort.
Day 11: Farewell to paradise
The final morning began with a delicious breakfast at the resort, followed by free time to soak up the last moments of the exotic beach and enjoy refreshing dips in the pools of the Sunshine Bay hotel. Every moment felt precious as we relished the beauty of this tropical paradise.
By midday, it was time to pack up and say goodbye. We departed for the airport in Stone Town, catching our afternoon flight to Addis Ababa and then onward to Athens. It was a bittersweet farewell, leaving with full hearts and unforgettable memories.
Day 12: Back home
After two smooth flights, we landed at Athens International Airport with mixed emotions, grateful for the incredible adventure but sad it had come to an end. The only minor setback was a damaged suitcase, but we sorted out the paperwork quickly and headed home.
Settling back, we reflected on the unique sights, the wonderful people we met, and the contrasts in living conditions we witnessed. Experiencing all of this alongside little Jason made it even more special.
What about you? Have you visited Tanzania or would you add it to your travel list after reading about our journey? Let us know!
