The festive season is one of the most magical times to visit East Africa. Warm weather, thriving wildlife, and unforgettable landscapes make Tanzania an ideal holiday destination. Many tour operators introduce exclusive Christmas New Year safari packages special offer deals designed for families, couples, and adventure lovers looking to celebrate the holidays in a truly unique way. Whether you want a classic Serengeti safari, a luxury lodge experience, or a beach-and-bush combination, planning early helps you secure the best rates and availability.
Why Choose a Safari During Christmas and New Year?
Traveling to Tanzania during the festive season offers benefits that make your holiday extraordinary.
Perfect Weather
December and early January fall in the short dry season, offering warm temperatures, clear skies, and great wildlife visibility.
Festive Atmosphere
Many lodges and camps offer:
Christmas dinners
New Year’s Eve celebrations
Cultural performances
Candlelit bush meals
This gives your holiday a blend of wilderness adventure and seasonal joy.
Peak Wildlife Season
This period is ideal for spotting predators, big cats, elephants, wildebeest herds, giraffes, hippos, and more.
What to Expect in a Christmas New Year Safari Package
Most Christmas New Year safari packages special offer deals include everything you need to enjoy a stress-free holiday.
Typical Inclusions
Airport transfers
Full-board accommodation
Safari game drives
Professional driver-guide
Park entry fees
Festive surprises such as Christmas bush dinners
Optional Upgrades
Hot air balloon safari
Luxury lodge stay
Zanzibar beach extension
Private safari vehicle
Cultural village tours
These options allow travelers to customize their holiday based on budget, interests, and travel style.
Top Safari Destinations for the Festive Season
Serengeti National Park
Experience world-class wildlife viewing, including:
Big cats
The early calving season in the Southern Serengeti
Endless savannah landscapes
December–January also offers mild temperatures and perfect sunrise game drives.
Ngorongoro Crater
This UNESCO World Heritage Site provides one of the highest wildlife densities in Africa. Expect sightings of:
Black rhinos
Lions
Hyenas
Wildebeest
Zebras
Its dramatic scenery makes holiday photos unforgettable.
Tarangire National Park
Famous for:
Baobab trees
Large elephant herds
Dry-season wildlife gatherings
Tarangire is calm and peaceful during the Christmas period, ideal for families and couples.
Lake Manyara National Park
Known for:
Tree-climbing lions
Flamingos
Beautiful lake views
A great addition to short festive packages.
Zanzibar Island
Many special offers include bush + beach combinations.
Visitors can enjoy:
Powdery white-sand beaches
Spice tours
Island excursions
Perfect for ending the year in paradise.
Sample Itinerary: 6-Day Christmas New Year Safari Package
Below is an example of what a festive-season safari package can look like:
Day 1: Arrival in Arusha
Meet your guide, transfer to hotel, and enjoy a warm festive welcome dinner.
Day 2: Tarangire National Park
Morning game drive spotting elephants, lions, giraffes, and birds.
Evening relaxation at a lodge decorated for Christmas.
Day 3: Ngorongoro Crater Tour
Full-day crater safari followed by a special holiday dinner with Maasai performances.
Day 4–5: Serengeti National Park
Two days of unlimited wildlife viewing and optional balloon safari.
Night: Celebrate Christmas or New Year with a bonfire, live music, or bush buffet.
Day 6: Return to Arusha or Flight to Zanzibar
End with shopping, relaxation, or a beach holiday extension.
This is just an example—packages can be customized to different durations and budgets.
Festive Season Safari Pricing
Prices for Christmas New Year safari packages special offer vary based on accommodation style, group size, and itinerary. Below is a general guideline.
Price Range
Budget Packages: $1,200–$1,800
Mid-range Packages: $2,000–$3,000
Luxury Packages: $3,500–$6,000+
Family Packages: Discounts available for kids
Group Packages: Bigger groups benefit from reduced per-person costs
What Causes Price Changes?
Lodge category (camp, mid-range, luxury)
Number of parks visited
High-season holiday surcharges
Private vs. shared safari options
Duration of the trip
Booking early (August–October) helps you secure cheaper rates before festive prices rise.
Tips for Booking Christmas & New Year Safari Packages
Book Early
This is peak season. Lodges fill up months in advance.
Consider a Beach Extension
Combining safari with Zanzibar gives you both adventure and relaxation.
Check What’s Included
Some packages look cheap but exclude:
Park fees
Festive supplements
Transfers
Drinks
Always read the details.
Choose a Reputable Company
Experience and professionalism matter, especially during peak travel periods.
Travel Insurance
Cover medical emergencies, cancellations, and lost luggage.
Best Deals for Couples, Families, and Groups
December is a perfect time for romantic getaways and family adventures.
Couples Packages
Often include:
Private bush dinners
Romantic lodge setups
Candlelit New Year celebrations
Family Packages
Designed for comfort and flexibility with:
Family rooms
Kid-friendly meals
Cultural activities
Easy game-viewing routes
Group Packages
Groups of 4–10 travelers often receive special rates, ideal for:
Friends
Work teams
Extended families
Holiday reunions
Why Choose a Special Offer?
Special offers make festive safaris more affordable while still providing luxurious upgrades. Benefits may include:
Discounted festive season rates
Free lodge night
Free balloon safari (select deals)
Reduced park fee contributions
Complimentary transfers
Festive gifts or exclusive events
Special offers allow travelers to enjoy premium experiences at more friendly prices.
Packing Tips for a Festive Safari
Light, neutral-colored clothes
Warm jacket for morning drives
Comfortable shoes
Hat and sunglasses
Power bank
Binoculars
Personal medications
Light festive wear for holiday dinners
Remember that evenings can be cool in the parks.
Final Thoughts
A safari holiday is one of the most unforgettable ways to celebrate the festive season. With the right Christmas New Year safari packages special offer, travelers get to enjoy exclusive deals, beautiful wildlife, warm weather, and special festive events in some of the world’s best national parks. Whether you’re planning a romantic Christmas getaway, a New Year family adventure, or a luxury safari escape, the festive season is the perfect time to explore Tanzania’s wilderness in style.
Get a free Quote
Book Your Adventure

STEPCLIMB ADVENTURES
Tanzania’s leading travel company, guiding people to grow, find purpose, and connect deeply through powerful, life-changing adventures.
