Honeymoon Adventure:
13-Day of Wildlife Thrills & Zanzibar Romance
Our 13-day journey took us from the iconic Serengeti to the pristine beaches of Zanzibar, blending thrilling game drives with moments of pure romance. Here’s how our adventure unfolded and why we’d recommend it to anyone seeking the ultimate honeymoon experience.
"Our honeymoon in Tanzania was NOTHING short of spectacular! Every moment felt like a dream, from expert guides who knew exactly where to take us to accommodations that blew us away, this was truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience."
Haylea Nisbet Ph.D. & Ryan Hemphill.
—New Mexico, United States.
How We Made Our Honeymoon in Tanzania Truly Extraordinary with Shrike Safaris
In September last year, my husband and I embarked on a honeymoon adventure to Tanzania, and it truly turned out to be the trip of a lifetime. For as long as I can remember, I've always dreamed of experiencing Africa—its vast landscapes, incredible wildlife, and unique cultures. When it came time to plan our honeymoon, we wanted something extraordinary, something more than just a regular vacation. After a lot of research and discussion, we chose to work with Shrike Safaris.
During the planning process, Mark and Bob were incredibly responsive to all my questions (and there were a lot!). They really took the time to understand what we wanted and made sure to craft an itinerary that matched our interests. They were also very flexible—whether it was adding in hikes like Ol Doinyo Lengai or visiting off-the-beaten-path spots like Empakai Crater, Shrike helped customize the trip so it felt just right for us. And the moment we were welcomed at the Kilimanjaro airport, we knew we were in the company of incredible people. The energy was so welcoming, and we instantly felt at ease.
Feel the Romance of Africa’s Untamed Beauty
Embark on an unforgettable journey with us as we share the story of our 13-day honeymoon safari with Shrike Safaris. From thrilling wildlife encounters in the Serengeti to the serene beaches of Zanzibar, every moment was filled with adventure, romance, and life-changing experiences.
September 10:
Arrival in Tanzania
As the plane touched down at Kilimanjaro International Airport at 7:35 AM, the excitement of a dream honeymoon became a vivid reality. We met Mark, our dedicated safari planner from Shrike Safaris. His warm smile and infectious enthusiasm immediately put us at ease and made us feel instantly at home. He ensured that all our travel arrangements were seamless and reassured us that we were in expert hands. A scenic transfer led us to Kiboko Lodge, nestled in serene surroundings where the sounds of nature set the tone for the adventures ahead.
September 11:
Lake Natron & Mt. Ol Doinyo Lengai Hike
Our journey began with the surreal beauty of Lake Natron, a shimmering pink expanse dotted with flocks of flamingos. The landscape was otherworldly, reflecting the stark contrast of the rugged terrain and vibrant waters. Later, we embarked on an unforgettable hike up Mt. Ol Doinyo Lengai, the "Mountain of God." This active volcano, sacred to the Maasai, challenged us with its steep trails but rewarded us with breathtaking panoramic views of the Great Rift Valley. Exhausted yet exhilarated, we settled into the eco-friendly charm of Maasai Giraffe Eco Lodge, surrounded by raw, natural beauty.
September 12:
Northern Serengeti Exploration
The wild heart of Africa beckoned as we ventured into the northern Serengeti. The vast plains stretched endlessly, teeming with wildlife at every turn. Majestic elephants, graceful giraffes, and stealthy predators created a living tapestry against the golden savannah. Our stay at Mbugani Tented Camp immersed us in the wilderness, with the sounds of the bush as our nightly lullaby.
September 13:
Witnessing the Greatest Show on Earth!
This day was a highlight of our safari—tracking the Great Migration along the Mara River. We witnessed nature's raw drama as thousands of wildebeest and zebras braved crocodile-infested waters, driven by an ancient instinct for survival. The sheer scale and intensity of the migration left us awestruck. As the sun dipped below the horizon, we returned to Mbugani Tented Camp, hearts full from the day's extraordinary encounters.
September 14:
Central Serengeti & The Big 5
Our adventure continued in the central Serengeti, where golden grasslands met the endless sky. Determined to spot the Big 5, we embarked on thrilling game drives. Lions lounged in the shade, a leopard draped elegantly over a tree branch, and herds of elephants roamed freely. Each sighting felt like a treasure. We ended the day at Shuhudia Adventure Camp, surrounded by the untamed beauty of the bush
September 15:
Wonders of the Ngorongoro Crater
Descending into the breathtaking Ngorongoro Crater felt like entering a hidden world. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a natural amphitheater, bustling with life. We marveled at the dense concentration of wildlife, including the rare black rhino. The crater's unique ecosystem and stunning landscapes left an indelible mark on our hearts. Our evening at Hhando Coffee Lodge provided a cozy retreat amidst the tranquil highlands.
September 16:
Empakai Crater Exploration
The adventure continued with a hike around the enchanting Empakai Crater. Its emerald-green lake and misty forest edges created a serene, almost mystical atmosphere. Flamingos waded gracefully in the shallow waters, and the distant views of Mount Kilimanjaro and Ol Doinyo Lengai added to the magical scenery. Returning to Hhando Coffee Lodge, we reflected on the quiet beauty
September 17:
Fly to Zanzibar Island
Bidding farewell to the mainland, we caught a morning flight to Zanzibar, an island steeped in history and charm. Arriving in Stone Town, we checked into the elegant DoubleTree by Hilton Zanzibar, where the warm coastal breeze and the aroma of spices welcomed us to a new chapter of our honeymoon.
September 18:
Stone Town Tour & Spice Experience
Wandering through the labyrinthine streets of Stone Town, we were transported back in time. The fusion of Arab, Persian, Indian, and European influences painted a rich cultural tapestry. We explored bustling markets, historic landmarks, and ancient doorways, each with a story to tell. A visit to the spice farms awakened our senses, as we touched, smelled, and tasted Zanzibar's famous spices. We returned to DoubleTree by Hilton Zanzibar, hearts full of history and flavor.
September 19:
Relaxation in Pingwe Village
Leaving the lively streets of Stone Town behind, we journeyed to the tranquil Pingwe Village on Zanzibar's pristine eastern coast. At Baladin Zanzibar Beach Hotel, the turquoise waters and soft, white sands invited us to relax and unwind, basking in the simple pleasures of island life.
September 20:
Leisure & Beach Bliss
A perfect day of leisure awaited us. We embraced the art of doing nothing—lounging by the beach, swimming in the warm Indian Ocean, and savoring fresh seafood. The idyllic setting of Baladin Zanzibar Beach Hotel made every moment feel like paradise.
September 21:
Snorkeling & Diving Adventures
Our final full day was filled with aquatic adventures. We explored vibrant coral reefs teeming with colorful marine life through snorkeling and diving. The underwater world of Zanzibar was as breathtaking as its landscapes above. Returning to Baladin Zanzibar Beach Hotel, we cherished the last sunset of our unforgettable journey.
September 22:
Farewell Tanzania
As dawn broke, we bid a heartfelt farewell to Zanzibar. A scenic domestic flight took us to Dar es Salaam, where we caught our afternoon flight home at 3:10 PM. Though we left Tanzania behind, we carried with us memories of an extraordinary honeymoon—an adventure etched into our hearts forever.
Meet Dixon
—the safari guide who turned our honeymoon into the adventure of a lifetime.
With his sharp eyes and deep knowledge of the wild, he didn’t just show us the Big Five—he brought the Serengeti to life. From thrilling close encounters to fascinating lessons on animal behavior, every moment with Dixon felt like stepping into a real-life nature documentary. With him leading the way, our journey wasn’t just about seeing Africa—it was about truly experiencing it.
Thanks to Dixon, our honeymoon was more than just a trip—it was an experience we’ll cherish forever.
If You’re Considering A Honeymoon Safari; Here’s What We Learned:
Picture this: You’re wrapped in a cozy fleece, the crisp morning air filling your lungs as your safari vehicle rumbles across the golden Serengeti. A lioness stretches in the dawn light, and your guide—an expert with eyes sharper than an eagle’s—spots something incredible in the distance. This is your adventure, and you want to make the most of it. Here’s how:
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You’ll Want Layers: Mornings can be chilly, but by afternoon, you’ll be peeling them off under the warm African sun.
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Your Guide Will Make Your Trip: They know the land, the animals, and the best-hidden spots. Trust them, and you’ll see more than you ever imagined.
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You’ll Want a Good Camera (or Binoculars!): Because when you lock eyes with a leopard lounging in a tree, you’ll want to remember every detail.
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Less is More When Packing: You’ll be living in comfy, breathable clothes, and most lodges offer laundry services. No need to overstuff that suitcase!
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The Best Moments Happen When You Least Expect Them: Maybe it’s a herd of elephants crossing your path or the distant roar of a lion at night—embrace the magic of the wild.
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Put Your Phone Down and Just Be There: This is your honeymoon, your adventure, your moment. Let the sunsets, the starlit skies, and the rhythm of the wild sink into your soul.
Final Thoughts:
A Trip That Changed Us Forever
Our honeymoon with Shrike Safaris was more than just a vacation—it was a life-changing experience. From heart-racing safari moments to quiet beachside sunsets, every detail was carefully crafted to make our journey unforgettable. For anyone dreaming of a honeymoon that combines adventure, romance, and the beauty of Africa, we can say with certainty: this is it. If you’re ready to embark on your own unforgettable journey, don’t hesitate—Shrike Safaris will make it a reality.
