12 days holidays package Christmas and New Year

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.

Christmas and New Year

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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