A long festive holiday offers the perfect opportunity to explore the natural beauty, wildlife, culture, and beaches of Tanzania. If you’re looking for a perfectly balanced adventure during the festive season, a 12 days holidays package Christmas and New Year is one of the best options. This kind of itinerary blends wildlife safaris, cultural experiences, scenic landscapes, and a relaxing beach escape, all wrapped with festive events that make your holiday unforgettable. Whether you are a couple, family, or small group, a 12-day package gives you enough time to explore multiple national parks without feeling rushed.
Why Choose a 12-Day Festive Holiday Package?
A 12-day itinerary is ideal for travelers who want a full, immersive experience. It combines:
Big wildlife parks
Cultural encounters
Scenic drives
Luxury or mid-range accommodation
Festive celebrations on Christmas and New Year
A beach extension for relaxation
Unlike short packages, a 12 days holidays package Christmas and New Year gives you time to enjoy each destination deeply, with well-spaced activities that avoid exhaustion.
What’s Included in a 12-Day Christmas & New Year Package?
Most 12-day packages are designed to be all-inclusive, covering the essential parts of your safari and holiday journey.
Standard Inclusions
Airport pickup and drop-off
Accommodation (lodge or camp)
All meals on safari
Safari game drives
National park fees
Professional driver-guide
Drinking water during the safari
Zanzibar beach accommodation
Festive dinners and special celebrations
Optional Add-Ons
Hot air balloon safari in Serengeti
Luxury lodge upgrades
Zanzibar activities (snorkeling, island tours)
Cultural tours in Maasai villages
Private safari vehicle
These add-ons help tailor your trip to your personal preferences.
Detailed Sample Itinerary: 12 Days Holidays Package Christmas and New Year
Below is an expanded sample itinerary showing what a typical 12-day festive package might look like.
Day 1: Arrival in Arusha
Upon landing at Kilimanjaro Airport, you are met by your guide and transferred to your hotel. Relax after your flight and enjoy a welcome dinner as you prepare for the amazing days ahead.
Day 2: Arusha City Tour (Optional)
This day may include:
Visiting local markets
Coffee farm tour
Cultural museum
This slow start prepares you for the safari ahead.
Day 3: Tarangire National Park
Start your safari with Tarangire, known for its baobab trees and massive elephant herds. Enjoy game viewing and breathtaking scenery.
Accommodation for the night is often in a lodge with a warm festive ambiance.
Day 4: Lake Manyara National Park
Explore Lake Manyara, home to flamingos, hippos, and unique tree-climbing lions. The park’s diverse ecosystem makes game drives exciting and varied.
Evening relaxation at a lodge overlooking the Great Rift Valley.
Day 5–6: Serengeti National Park
Spend two full days exploring the world-famous Serengeti.
Expect sightings of:
Lions
Leopards
Cheetahs
Wildebeest
Zebras
Hyenas
During this festive season, some lodges host special Christmas Eve or Christmas Day celebrations with bush dinners, live music, or campfire gatherings.
A hot air balloon safari can be added for a magical sunrise experience.
Day 7: Ngorongoro Conservation Area
Drive to Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Enjoy a full-day safari inside the crater, spotting rhinos, elephants, buffalo, and large prides of lions.
Spend your night on the crater rim enjoying cool weather and stunning views.
Day 8: Flight to Zanzibar
After your safari, fly to Zanzibar for the beach portion of your holiday. Settle into your beachfront hotel and enjoy a relaxing evening by the ocean.
Day 9–10: Zanzibar Beach Holiday
Spend two full days enjoying the Indian Ocean beaches.
Activities may include:
Snorkeling
Spice farm tour
Stone Town city tour
Sunset dhow cruise
Relaxation is prioritized, with clear blue waters, white-sand beaches, and warm weather.
These days often include New Year’s celebrations, depending on your travel dates, such as:
Beach parties
Fireworks
Gala dinners
Special entertainment
Day 11: Free Day / Optional Tours
Choose an optional activity or relax:
Prison Island tour
Mnemba Island snorkeling
Local village tour
Spa treatments
This flexible day allows you to customize your holiday experience.
Day 12: Departure
Transfer to Zanzibar Airport for your onward flight. Many travelers leave with lifelong memories of an adventurous and festive holiday.
Why This 12-Day Package Is Perfect for Christmas & New Year
1. Balanced Between Adventure and Relaxation
Safari + beach = complete holiday.
2. Special Seasonal Festivities
Many lodges provide:
Christmas dinner buffets
New Year countdown celebrations
Traditional music and dance
Bush meals and bonfires
3. Best Weather Conditions
The December–January season offers ideal temperatures and lower rainfall.
4. Suitable for All Travelers
This package works well for:
Couples
Honeymooners
Families with children
Groups of friends
5. Good Value for Money
A long itinerary spreads out your travel costs and ensures you experience every highlight Tanzania offers during the festive season.
Pricing Overview
Prices vary depending on accommodation category.
Estimated Cost Range
Budget Package: $2,800 – $3,800
Mid-range Package: $4,000 – $5,500
Luxury Package: $6,000 – $9,500+
What affects the price?
Lodge type (budget, mid-range, luxury)
Private vs shared safari vehicle
Zanzibar hotel category
Number of travelers
Special festive surcharges for December–January
It’s recommended to book early (May–September) because festive season availability becomes limited.
What to Pack for a 12-Day Festive Holiday
Safari Packing
Neutral-colored clothes
Warm jacket for mornings
Safari hat
Binoculars
Closed shoes
Sunglasses
Zanzibar Packing
Light, breathable clothing
Swimwear
Sandals
Sunscreen
Extras
Power bank
Camera
Personal medications
Reusable water bottle
Final Thoughts
A 12 days holidays package Christmas and New Year is one of the best ways to explore Tanzania’s iconic wildlife parks and stunning beaches during the festive season. It offers a perfect balance of excitement, cultural immersion, scenic beauty, and relaxation. With special seasonal events, luxurious or mid-range accommodations, and unforgettable adventures, this package ensures a memorable way to celebrate Christmas and welcome the New Year.
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