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East African Adventure: Kenya & Tanzania!
Let’s take time out to indulge in the wild beauty of East Africa on this unforgettable two-week journey through Kenya and Tanzania. We’ll begin our adventure in Kenya’s fertile highlands, where the landscape is as rich as the culture. Witness the incredible wildlife of Lake Nakuru, famous for its flamingos and rhinos, before venturing into the iconic Maasai Mara. Here we’ll have a front-row seat to the Great Migration — one of nature’s most spectacular events.
We’ll cross into Tanzania and traverse the sweeping plains of the Serengeti, where lions lounge in the grass and wildebeest stretch to the horizon. We’ll descend into the Ngorongoro Crater, a natural amphitheater teeming with wildlife, and wrap up our safari in Tarangire National Park, known for its towering baobabs and large elephant herds.
Whether you choose to dedicate your time entirely to safari or add on a few days of barefoot chill time on Zanzibar’s sun-kissed shores, this East African tour promises inspiring landscapes, game drives, and memories to last a lifetime. This is the best of Africa — wild and wonderful. Let’s go!
Kenya & Tanzania
14 DAYS 6 people max Dates and pricing will be announced soon!
* please note that I will happily partner you with another solo traveler but you will be responsible for the single supplement rate if the opportunity doesn’t present itself
or call 1-818-455-2145
Overview
This journey is timed so we can see the Great Migration! It’s one of wildlife’s biggest spectacles on the planet. Over two million wildebeest, zebra, and gazelle follow the rains in a continuous cycle in search of fresh grazing, navigating vast distances and facing dramatic river crossings where crocodiles and predators wait. This natural phenomenon is not just a migration—it’s survival, instinct, and the raw drama of the wild. Whether we witness thundering herds on the move, calving season in the Serengeti, or a nail-biting Mara River crossing, the Great Migration offers a front-row seat to the untamed heart of Africa.
East Africa can be an expensive destination, but with smart planning, i’ve tried to strike the right balance between value and unforgettable experiences. I’ve avoided overspending on areas that won’t significantly impact our trip—like a luxury hotel room for a quick overnight stop in Nairobi—so we have room in our budget for the moments that truly count. Whether it’s a hot air balloon safari over the Serengeti at sunrise or a private game drive during peak migration, some experiences are worth the splurge when they’re once-in-a-lifetime. I have noted opportunities for optional upgrades though!
INCLUDES
all meals and beverages
all accommodations
Maasai village visit
game walks/drives
all park and conservancy fees
all local English speaking guides
all transportation within Kenya and Tanzania
Flying Doctors AMREF insurance
and me! I’ll be there to make sure everything goes smoothly.
Add on opportunities to enjoy a hot air balloon ride or a couple of days with your feet in the sands of Zanzibar are available as well! See below for pricing and details.
Not Included
alcoholic beverages
gratuity (aside from included meals)
international flights
tours listed as add-ons
comprehensive travel insurance
Highlights
observe the annual Great Migration of wildebeest and zebra
genuinely small group tour
visit the world’s only intact caldera
Maasai cultural village visit
a chance to see the Big Five!
carefully selected accommodations
Itinerary
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Welcome to Kenya! The gateway to Kenya is its capital city, Nairobi. We’ll gather in this vibrant city where views of the continent’s largest mountains, Kilimanjaro and Mount Kenya, are visible on a clear day.
We’ll meet in the evening for a welcome dinner to get to know one another and to go over the welcome package.
If you arrive early I suggest exploring the city or visiting Nairobi National Park. The park can be reached by bus or car, and visitors are able to observe a multitude of wildlife going about their day against the stark backdrop of the city. A visit to the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, located in the park, is a must. Visitors can observe orphaned elephants and rhinos being led by their carers for a daily mud bath.
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Today we will travel to Lake Nakuru for our very first safari! The lake is part of the Rift Valley’s famous soda lakes and is often tinged pink from the thousands of flamingos that gather along its shores to forage in the alkaline waters. Black and white rhinos are a common sight, lumbering near the water’s edge, while stealthy pythons occasionally cross the road as they move between the lakeside and surrounding woodlands. We’ll enjoy a game drive which offers the best chance to spot everything from buffalo and zebra to jackals and hippos. We’ll keep our eyes peeled for big cats—lions, cheetahs, and the elusive leopard—who are known to patrol the shoreline in search of prey. Graceful giraffes can often be seen awkwardly bending for a drink, adding charm to the already rich wildlife scene. Lake Nakuru is one of the best places in Africa to witness flamingos in staggering numbers and to catch a glimpse of the park’s increasingly visible leopards.
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Today we enter the legendary Maasai Mara, where golden savannas stretch endlessly. The Maasai Mara National Reserve is easily Kenya’s most iconic and celebrated wildlife area. Spanning vast plains that stretch into Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park, the reserve is renowned for its strong conservation efforts and thriving populations of lion, cheetah, and leopard. It also plays a starring role in the Great Wildebeest Migration, making it one of the best places in Africa to witness nature at its most dramatic.
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Venture out on an early morning safari to track the animals that traversed the savanna during the night. View ungulates like Thomson’s and Grant’s gazelles, topi and eland antelopes—as well as their stealthy predators—at one of their most active times of the day. We’ll continue our exploration on a late afternoon safari, discovering the timeless landscapes of Maasai Mara before settling back into our comfy camp.
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This morning, you have the exciting option to begin your day with a sunrise hot air balloon ride—an unforgettable experience that offers a breathtaking aerial view of the vast Maasai Mara. As the sun rises over the horizon, watch the golden light illuminate the savanna below, where herds of wildebeest, zebra, and antelope stretch as far as the eye can see, and predators move quietly through the grasslands. After gently touching down, enjoy breakfast in the bush before continuing your adventure on land.
Those who haven’t opted into the add-on get a relaxed morning at the lodge, cup of coffee in hand watching the sunrise over the Mara. Once we reconnect after breakfast we'll quietly explore the Mara on foot, learning to track wildlife, read the landscape, and experience the bush from an entirely new perspective. We’ll be accompanied by expert Maasai guides.
In the afternoon, we'll visit a traditional Maasai village, where we’ll learn about the customs, culture, and daily life of this proud and vibrant community—a meaningful connection to the people who have called this land home for generations.
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A morning flight will transfer us to The Serengeti National Park. This park is celebrated for its remarkable concentration of wildlife—especially the iconic Big Five. Yet, it is perhaps best known as a key setting for the awe-inspiring Great Migration. Each year, over two million wildebeest, accompanied by countless gazelles and a smaller band of zebra, journey in search of richer grazing grounds. Their path winds south through the Serengeti, then westward and north into the Maasai Mara, before eventually circling back again.
We’ll begin your Tanzanian chapter with an afternoon game drive across these iconic grasslands.
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Our day in the Serengeti begins before dawn, when the golden light spills across the savanna and wildlife stirs to life—perfect timing to catch predators on the move and witness the park at its most active. In the afternoon we’ll explore different regions of the park, from acacia woodlands to vast open plains, where cheetahs might be spotted perched on termite mounds scanning for prey. As the sun begins to dip, we’ll cap off the day with a classic African sundowner—cocktail in hand and elephants silhouetted on the horizon.
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We have another day in this nature documentary brought to life! Our morning begins with a game drive at first light, when the savanna is bathed in golden hues and wildlife is most active. As the day unfolds, we’ll traverse ever-changing landscapes, from sweeping plains to rocky outcrops known as kopjes. We’ll end the day with another classic African sundowner, as the sky blazes with color and the sounds of the wild usher in the night.
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This morning we make the scenic drive from the Serengeti to the legendary Ngorongoro Crater, winding our way through ever-changing terrain—vast open plains, rolling hills, and dramatic volcanic escarpments. Along the way, we’ll stop to stretch our legs at Olduvai Gorge, often called the “Cradle of Humankind,” where a modern museum and panoramic views bring the story of early human history to life. After a relaxed bush lunch, we’ll continue on and drop by a traditional Maasai boma, where we’ll be welcomed with warm smiles and a glimpse into the Maasai’s fascinating way of life. We’ll walk among cattle enclosures, learn how each bead color in their intricate jewelry carries symbolic meaning, and come away with a deeper appreciation for their enduring culture. As the afternoon light softens, we’ll arrive at our cozy lodge just in time for a sundowner (can’t have too much of a good thing!) and a spectacular view into one of Africa’s most magical wildlife havens.
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This morning, we’ll descend into the Ngorongoro Crater for a safari in one of the most wildlife-rich environments on Earth. A designated UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1973, the crater is the world’s only fully intact volcanic caldera, and its lush, self-contained ecosystem supports an extraordinary diversity of life. Keep your eyes peeled for lions, leopards, elephants, buffalo, and rhino—as well as large herds of wildebeest, zebra, and gazelle roaming the crater floor. The landscape itself is just as captivating, with its mix of grassland, forest, and shimmering soda lakes providing a dramatic backdrop for our morning game drive. From here we’ll continue our journey to Lake Manyara, a picturesque destination known for its tree-climbing lions, prolific birdlife, and stunning views of the Great Rift Valley escarpment.
Fun fact: Some believe that before its massive eruption, Ngorongoro might have stood taller than Mount Kilimanjaro itself.
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We’ll start the morning with a game drive through the beautiful landscapes of Lake Manyara, where shimmering waters and lush greenery create a haven for wildlife. Along the lake’s alkaline shores, you might spot hippos cooling off in the shallows and bright pink flamingos wading gracefully through the shallows. Keep an eye on the treetops—this is one of the few places in the world where lions have taken to climbing trees, and leopards are known to lurk. Giraffes and zebras dot the open grasslands, while the surrounding woodlands echo with the sounds of birdlife and rustling leaves. After a morning of exploration, we’ll hit the road and head to Tarangire National Park, a quieter gem known for its giant baobab trees and some of the largest elephant herds in Tanzania. Far from the crowds, Tarangire offers a peaceful, safari experience rich with wildlife and the magic of the African bush.
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Today’s journey takes us back into Kenya via the Namanga border crossing, a scenic drive that offers a changing tapestry of landscapes—from open savannas to rugged hillsides dotted with traditional Maasai settlements. As we make our way toward Amboseli National Park, the scenery begins to shift, and if the skies are clear, we may catch our first glimpse of Mount Kilimanjaro’s snow-capped peak towering on the horizon. By the time we arrive at Amboseli, the terrain will open up into wide, dusty plains punctuated by marshes and acacia trees—and, of course, the park’s legendary residents: massive elephant herds that roam freely with the mountain as their backdrop.
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Amboseli National Park spans 40,000 hectares of striking contrasts—endless stretches of arid earth interrupted by lush swamps brimming with life. We’ll be there for the tail end of the dry season when the sparse vegetation allows for clear and rewarding wildlife sightings. While the park is home to an impressive variety of large game and over 300 bird species, it is best known for its close encounters with free-roaming elephants, some of the most studied in the wild. We’ll explore the park’s winding tracks using the comfort of our lodge as a home base.
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Today we return to Nairobi International Airport where you will either catch your return flight home or travel on to Zanzibar if you have purchased the add-on.
Alternatively, if you would like to book a room in Nairobi for the night before returning home, I’m happy to assist with the booking and will help to arrange a private transfer to the airport for you.
Accommodations
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![Modern bedroom with a double bed, yellow accent pillows, gray curtains, exposed brick wall, wooden beams, and a black pendant light.]()
Nairobi
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![Cozy wooden bedroom with a single bed, chandelier, and window with floral curtains.]()
Lake Nakuru
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![A hotel room with a large window view of a cityscape, including historical buildings. Inside, there's a chair with a hat, a table with flowers and a book, a lamp, and a blue bag on the floor.]()
Maasai Mara
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![Modern bedroom with a neatly made bed, white linens, beige blanket, and wooden side table. Room features large window with sheer and blackout curtains, and a textured headboard.]()
Serengeti
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![Room with two single beds, decorative wallpaper, bedside lamps, and a chair.]()
Lake Manyara
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Tarangire
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Amboseli
Optional Room Upgrades
Standard rooms with two beds or a queen are included in the tour cost. If you would like to upgrade there are options available.
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With two beds this suite offers extra space and a private seating area. Also, available with a king bed. Pricing will be listed asap.
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Not your honeymoon and just want to splurge at this amazing location? No problem! This suite comes with a complimentary bottle of bubbly, a soaking tub and a king bed. Pricing will be posted asap!
A standard room with two beds or a queen is included in the tour but there are options for upgrade if you’re interested.
A standard room with two single beds or a queen is included in the tour package. I’ve also arranged VID welcome perks for ALL guests regardless of room selection. If you would like to book a room for the night before the tour’s start I will make sure those perks extend to both nights of your stay. Let me know if you would like me to assistwith that b
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Two beds and room to stretch out. Price will be posted asap
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Deluxe room w/ and king bed and more room to stretch out and get comfy. Pricing and more details will be posted asap.
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With more room to stretch out, a private verandah and a view of the courtyard you can upgrade to a Deluxe King room for an additional cost of:
$40pp
$80 for single occupancy
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With more room to stretch out, a private verandah and a view of the courtyard you can upgrade to a Deluxe Double with two individual beds for an additional cost of:
$60pp
$120 for single occupancy
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With a private outdoor deck, a beautiful view and a full living room to relax in, this lux option is available for an added cost of:
$515pp
$1,030 single occupancy
This section is still in process! Thanks for your patience. Contact me if you’re interested in any of the following accommodation upgrades. All are subject to availability at time of booking and all are gorgeous. Personally, I’m going to splurge at the Ngorongoro Crater.
Optional add-Ons
Float above the golden plains of the Masai Mara on this unforgettable hot air balloon adventure. Designed for travelers seeking both wonder and connection, this shared experience invites you to soar at sunrise alongside fellow adventurers, as the vast African wilderness unfolds beneath you. With sweeping views of wildlife, acacia-dotted landscapes, and the early morning mist rising from the savannah, it’s a perspective few ever experience.
Your journey begins with hassle-free transfers from your camp to the launch site, followed by an approximately one-hour flight guided by expert pilots who share insights into the region’s wildlife and ecology. After landing, toast your experience with a champagne-style bush breakfast surrounded by nature — a perfect finale to an extraordinary morning.
Includes:
Hotel transfers to and from the launch site
One-hour hot air balloon flight
Expert commentary from experienced pilots
Champagne-style bush breakfast
Conservancy landing fees
Whether you’re traveling solo or with companions, this is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that blends exhilaration, serenity, and a touch of luxury — high above the heart of Kenya’s most iconic landscape. A minimum number of riders is required for this experience.
After your safari adventures, let’s extend the trip with an escape to Zanzibar Island; a tropical paradise surrounded by the warm waters of the Indian Ocean. This is your time to slow down and relax.
Zanzibar’s people are warm, welcoming, and deeply proud of their Swahili heritage. A unique blend of African, Arab, Indian, and European influences gives the island its rich cultural identity. Conversations often begin with a cheerful “Jambo!” and the local rhythm of life is refreshingly unhurried.
Zanzibar’s coastline offers some of the most pristine beaches in East Africa— powder-soft white sand, swaying palm trees, and crystal-clear turquoise waters. Your accommodations are along tranquil shores where you can enjoy leisurely mornings, sun-drenched afternoons, and balmy, starlit evenings.
Whether you choose to read under a thatched umbrella, float in the sea, or sip fresh coconut juice with your toes in the sand, this portion of your trip is entirely yours to design—or not design at all. That being said, i’ve done all the research for you and have listed several Zanzibar optional add-ons.
The price for this add on will reflect the experience you would like to have on the island. We can discuss what type of accommodation you’re interested in and I can create the package for you. I can also share where I will be staying. If you would like to stay in the same location you are more than welcome. If you would prefer a luxury accommodation, an all inclusive resort, or something super budget friendly there are several beautiful options available.
Set sail from Fumba on a full-day ocean adventure through the breathtaking Menai Bay Conservation Area, home to uninhabited islands and playful dolphins. The day begins with a relaxing stop at a pristine sandbank where you can swim, snorkel, or simply soak up the sun. Snorkeling gear and expert guides are provided to help you explore the vibrant coral reefs teeming with tropical marine life—perfect for both beginners and experienced snorkelers. Enjoy refreshing drinks, fresh coconuts, and local snacks before heading to picturesque Kwale Island. There, indulge in a seafood BBQ lunch featuring grilled fish, slipper lobster, prawns, and more. The day ends with a visit to the stunning Blue Lagoon, a natural swimming pool, before returning to your hotel around 3:00 PM. A must-do for ocean lovers and adventure seekers!
This is the price for a small group but please let me know if you would prefer a private tour. The private tour visits the small places and you’ll enjoy snorkeling as well as swimming with dolphins! The price for the private tour will depend on the number of people.
Savor the vibrant flavors of Zanzibar on a two-and-a-half-hour food tasting adventure through the winding alleyways and lesser-known corners of Stone Town. Led by your warm and knowledgeable host, Lodi, this street food tour takes you off the beaten path to sample dishes from beloved local vendors whose recipes have been passed down for generations. From savory bites to sweet treats and refreshing local drinks, each stop offers not only a taste of Zanzibari cuisine but also a story rooted in tradition and community. Along the way, Lodi will share personal tales of growing up in Stone Town and point out key cultural landmarks, giving you an insider’s view of daily life in this historic city. Whether you choose a breakfast or dinner itinerary, you’ll visit at least six vendors and enjoy an ever-changing menu based on the time of day. All food and drink are included. Dietary restrictions? No problem—vegetarians are easily accommodated with advance notice, and vegan options can be arranged with a customized itinerary. This is more than just a food tour—it’s a delicious deep dive into the culture, history, and heart of Stone Town. Tip not included.
Leave the beaten path behind and journey to Pemba Island for a soulful, hands-on cultural experience like no other. This fly-in, fly-out 12 hour day trip offers an intimate window into Zanzibar’s quieter, greener sister island—renowned for its lush landscapes, ancient spice farms, and deep culinary roots. Your day begins with a warm welcome and cultural introduction, followed by a visit to an unspoiled spice farm where you’ll learn about the aromatic ingredients that define Swahili cooking. Dressed in traditional Zanzibari attire, you’ll spend the day alongside local “Mamas” whose stories and skills breathe life into Pemba’s rich traditions. Learn to prepare rare, time-honored dishes—ones you won’t find in any restaurant—using traditional tools in a village kitchen. From a surprise treat to stirring pots with the Mamas, every moment is steeped in authenticity and connection. The experience ends around a shared Swahili table, where conversation and community are just as nourishing as the food.
With small group sizes, all travel logistics taken care of and included, and a focus on responsible, women-led tourism, this is more than a cooking class—it’s a deeply personal and culturally rich adventure you’ll never forget.
Would you like one last safari adventure? Embark on an unforgettable sunrise-to-sunset luxury safari experience designed to immerse you in the raw beauty of Tanzania’s iconic Selous Game Reserve—all in just one epic day. Departing Zanzibar at 6:00 AM on a scenic light aircraft flight, you'll touch down in the remote wilderness of Selous by 6:30 AM, greeted by your expert driver-guide and a professional wildlife photographer who will capture every incredible moment for you to relive later. This thoughtfully curated adventure takes you deep into the heart of one of Africa’s largest and wildest reserves, home to Tanzania’s greatest elephant population and an astonishing array of wildlife—lions, leopards, African wild dogs, buffaloes, hippos, giraffes, zebras, and more.
You’ll explore the untouched savannahs and riverbanks on a thrilling game drive, with well-timed stops for tea, coffee, and a delicious buffet lunch in a picturesque setting with sweeping views of the park. Throughout the day, your dedicated photographer will document the journey, and you’ll receive a professional gallery of images a few days after your return. As the sun dips below the horizon, you’ll board your sunset flight back to Zanzibar, arriving in time for a hotel drop-off and memories that will last a lifetime.
This experience is limited to a maximum of 30 travelers and requires a minimum number of participants to operate. If the minimum is not met, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund. Not just a safari—it’s a once-in-a-lifetime adventure captured in stunning detail.
Explore the northern coast of Zanzibar on a quad bike — a unique blend of excitement, culture, and breathtaking scenery.
Ride along the coastal paths of JOMBA Beach, where turquoise waters and soft sands offer the perfect setting to start the ride.
Continue to Kidoti Village, a warm and welcoming Swahili community. Here, you'll step into everyday island life: meet friendly locals, see traditional fishing techniques in action, and pass by colorful homes, coconut groves, and village artisans at work. It’s a rare and authentic glimpse into Zanzibar's cultural soul..
The adventure ends at Kendwa Beach, famous for its lively energy, clear waters, and stunning views — a perfect finale of relaxation and fun. Along the way you’ll see baobab trees, sip on fresh coconuts, and even have the experience captured from above with drone footage.
We’ve got your safety covered with helmets, full gear, and expert local guides. All you have to do is ride, relax, and enjoy
What’s Included
Helmets and full safety gear
Air-conditioned support vehicle
Entry/Admission to Nungwi Beach and Kendwa Beach
Fresh fruits, soda, and local refreshments (e.g., fresh coconuts)
Stunning drone footage of your journey
Guided visit to Kidoti Village
Step back in time with a captivating 2–3 hour walking tour through the heart of Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site steeped in history and cultural fusion. Led by a certified English-speaking guide, this journey winds through the atmospheric alleyways of Mji Mpya, the oldest part of Zanzibar City, where stories of the island’s African, Persian, Portuguese, and Omani influences come to life. Along the way, you’ll visit iconic landmarks such as the House of Wonders, Old Fort, the Freddy Mercury Museum, and Jaws Corner—Stone Town’s unofficial social hub. Explore the vibrant Darajani Market, stroll through the Foodchain Garden, and visit both Anglican and Catholic churches, including the haunting site of the former slave market. Please note that transportation to and from the meeting point, tips, and the $5 entrance fee to the slave market site are not included.
Step into the heart of Zanzibar with The Zanzibar Experience by Maskat, one of the island’s most authentic and enriching cultural encounters. This four hour immersive cooking class goes far beyond the kitchen—beginning with a warm welcome and an introduction to the rich stories behind traditional Zanzibari cuisine. You’ll stroll through the bustling local fish market, mingle with friendly vendors, and take in the colorful energy of daily life. Then, the real magic begins as you're welcomed into the home of the Mamas, where a small surprise awaits before your hands-on cooking lesson begins. Guided by these inspiring women, you’ll learn to prepare up to 10 traditional dishes—from fluffy chapati to fragrant coconut rice—using a traditional kijungu (mud pot). Afterward, gather around the table to share the meal you’ve created, complete with a sweet Swahili dessert. More than just a cooking class, this is a meaningful exchange of culture, connection, and community that supports and celebrates the women at its heart—and leaves you with unforgettable memories and new culinary skills to take home.
100% locally led, with direct support to women in the community.
Get ready to see Zanzibar like never before—free-falling from the sky with the Indian Ocean sparkling below! This two-hour tandem skydiving experience is the perfect blend of adrenaline and awe, offering breathtaking views and the ultimate thrill. After a detailed safety briefing from your professional instructor, you’ll gear up with all necessary equipment—harness, goggles, and nerves of steel—before boarding the plane. As you soar above the island, anticipation builds… then it’s go time! You’ll leap together with your instructor for an unforgettable dive, with panoramic views of turquoise waters, coral reefs, and powdery beaches below. Once your feet are back on solid ground, you’ll receive photos and videos of your jump, so you can relive the moment (and show off a little) forever. While transportation isn’t included, everything else is taken care of to make this an unforgettable private adventure for your group.
Please note: Participants must be under 105 kg and in good health; not suitable for pregnant travelers or those with back or heart conditions. Weather permitting, this is one Zanzibar thrill you don’t want to miss. Also, if you would prefer to save a little on this experience you can book without electing for photos to be taken during your jump. This will reduce the cost by $80pp
For insurance reasons I cannot offer this add on directly to clients BUT it’s such a fun experience that I want to make sure clients are aware it’s an option on the island! While you can’t simply add to cart through the site I can provide you with the information needed to book directly with the company. Their reputation and reviews are stellar.
make a deposit
This deposit will hold your place on the trip. Full payment will be due by (DATE TBA), 2026. This deposit is refundable in full until that date. Further payment and cancelation details below.
Can’t wait to travel with you!
Payment Policies
Payment Schedule
At time of reservation: $1,500 “Hold my spot!”
90 days prior to departure: Balance due
Cancelation Refund Schedule
Cancel 91 days prior to departure: Full refund!
61-90 days prior to departure: 75% of trip cost refunded
46-60 days prior to departure: 50% of trip cost refunded
45 days or less: no refund
