A trip to Zanzibar Island

Discover the history of Ugunja established more than 300 years Ago

Like many African countries, Tanzania and its island capital Zanzibar are a set of beautiful attractions to have on an African trip. Zanzibar(Ugunja) is an island off the east coast of Tanzania and thus one of the biggest islands in the Indian Ocean.

This beautiful  island is has a long history of trade, early explorers and a rich taste of cultures and people. It is this ancient record that makes the island one of the best places to visit in Tanzania-that is if you want to crown your African safari here in the best way. A weekend or so is the best time to visit the island and the white sandy beaches!

Travel

There is a ferry that leaves the port at Dar-es-salaam at 7am. It is advisable that you the departure times right because you might find the ferry gone. Besides, an early arrival and boarding is good enough to get the best seats for the cruise.

The ferry has first class section and the economy class. Alternatively tourists and travelers can use the deck for best views of the turquoise waters of the Indian ocean. The ferry ride to the island’s port is roughly a two hour ride.

As you draw closer to the big island, there is sight of the island’s capital Stone town which is the biggest attraction on the island. Your arrival at the port is not spared of the hustlers and travel agents looking for tourists or travelers with no agenda. If you have visited most capital cities around Africa and Asia, you must be familiar with what I am talking about here.

Attractions

Not far way from the port-just a few minutes drive from here is the famous fish market. Actually the market is typical of many local markets built near lakes or at the beaches along Africa’s sea coast. The market here resembles those in Senegal and many others in Lagos Nigeria.

Stone Town

Depending on the travel agent or tour operator you have chosen for your tours of Zanzibar, you should not be cheated by not talking a stroll in the historic Stone town. The rather big town has scent of ancient buildings lining either side of the winding streets and this is one unique feature about this town.

One of the very first sights in this town is the House of wonders which also is the main island museum. This 130 year old building is a former mansion of one of the Sultans of Zanzibar and was the first site to have running water and electricity. The balcony of the house is a good place to have an overview of the town.

The old fort is another sight in the town. The fort is a famous art and craft centre-a good place to shop for antiques and gifts cheaply.

The old slave market of Zanzibar is not far way from here. The market gives you a bigger picture of the slave trade times. Across the market is the Anglican church which statues and a monument to commemorate the trying times of slavery in Zanzibar. The church was built in the courtyard where slaves were auctioned before they were shipped to mainland Tanzania port of Bagamoyo and later sold to the Arabs.

Other interesting sights in the town include the central market. This market is known for its freshly sold spices and food grown on the island. You probably want to buy some of these excellent spices to take home for yourself or as gift for your parents.

A stroll through the narrow alleys in the town takes you back in time-times of the explorers and slave trade. Afternoons in the countryside are best ways to relax on the island away from the noise of the port and the buzzing markets. There are many farms on the island growing sugarcane, coconuts, palm oil plantations and finally spices such as nutmeg, turmeric, black pepper, ginger, cloves, cinnamon and many others.

Food and Dining

Zanzibar and Tanzania rhyme for spices and delightful cuisine. The food at the island has a distinctive taste with a blend of home grown spices. Some of the foods you’ll be served include potatoes, pilau (spiced rice), chappati, peas, fish, chicken, beef stew and many other Tanzanian delicacies.  Be sure to ask the guide to help out with identifying the food on the menu-Believe me you’ll need the help.

There is an option of passing on your recipe for dinner to the chef at the restaurant but this comes at an extra cost. Remember that we are on an adventure and tasting the different dishes of Zanzibar is no exception.

Some of the best restaurants to have dinner include Mercury Restaurant where tables are set a deck overlooking the beach.

Accommodation

What kind of accommodation would you expect on island? Believe me Zanzibar is quite exceptional in the range of accommodation to choose from. Of course there are many backpacker’s options in motels and Inns such as St Monica’s guesthouse, Princess Samle Innn and others.

There are also some luxurious hotels and  resorts near the beaches to spend the night.

Zanzibar Tour Add-ons

Trips to Zanzibar islands are not isolated with tours of Pemba Island which forms part of the Zanzibar archipelago. Pemba island is about 50 km long from the mainland coast of Tanzania and is the second largest island off the Tanzania Indian Ocean coast. The two islands share a long history of Early explorers and traders an was thus known as ‘Al Jazeera Al Khadura‘-the green island regarded more fertile than its neighbor Zanzibar.

Other interesting islands to tour off the Tanzanian coast include Lamu, Seychelles, Mombasa and many others.

Tanzania travel tips

Credit Cards and Tanzania currency

Credit cards and travellers checks are not widely accepted in Tanzania. Credit cards are only accepted by the major airline companies and by most of the bigger hotels and lodges. You should not entirely rely on credit cards if you are travelling to remote Tanzania National Parks. Carry lots of cash in Tanzania Shillings.

There are several foreign exchange bureaus in different towns like in Arusha and Dar-es-salaam where you can change your dollars, pounds and Euro cheaply than in forex shops in remote area of Tanzania. There are a few luxury safari lodges that accept Visa/credit cards from prominent Tanzania safari areas like Serengeti and Ngorongoro.

Visa and Passports Requirements

Visa and valid passports are a must for all travellers to Tanzania. Visa can be obtained from different Tanzania embassies from most countries in Europe or America. it is also possible to get a visa from any of the 4 entry points in Tanzania-Dar-es-salaam Airport, Zanzibar airport, Kilimanjaro international airport and Namanga border post that connects with Kenya.

We strongly recommend checking for relevant Tanzania travel documents with your local Tanzanian Embassy before arranging your flight to Tanzania.

Tanzania foreign diplomatic missions and embassies

Belgium
363 Avenue Louise, 1050 Brussels, Belgium
Tel.: 640 6500/640 6527
Fax: 646 8026
Telex: (046) 63616
tanzania@skynet.be

Canada
50 Range Road, Ottawa, Ontario KIN 8J4, Canada
Tel.: (613) 232 1500 / 1509
Fax: (612) 232 5184/Tlx: (021) 533569
tzottawa@synapse.net

China
No. 53 Dong Liu Jie, Beijing, China
Tel.: 5321491, 5321719
Fax: 5324985
Telex: 22749 tzbejing@info.iuol.cn.net

France
13 Avenue Raymond, Pointcare, 75116 Paris, France
Tel.: 00331 4755 0546
Fax: 003315370 6366
anzanie@infonie.fr

Germany
Theaterplatz 26, 5300 Bonn 2, West Germany
Tel.: (0228) 358051-54
Fax: (0228) 358226
Telex: (041) 885569
balozi@tanzania-gov.de

Italy
9,Via Giambattista Vico, 00196, Rome
Tel.: 06 3610901
Fax: 4549660
tanzarep@pcg.it

Japan
21-9, Kamiyoga 4, Chome Setagaya – Ku, Tokyo 158, Japan
Tel.: (03) 425 4531/3
Fax: (008133) 425 7844/Tlx: (072) J22121
tzrepjp@japan.co.jp

South Africa
P. O. Box 56572, Arcadia, 0007, Pretoria, South Africa
Tel.:3424371/93
Fax: 002712 434 383
tanzania@cis.co.za

Russia
Pyatnitskaya, Ulitsa 33, Moscow, Russia
Tel.: 231 8126, 231 5431
Fax: 230 2968
Telex: (064) 413352
tanmos@wm.west-call.com

Sweden
Oxtorgsgatan 2 – 4, Box 7255, 103-89,Stockholm, Sweden
Tel.: 08 244870,
Fax: 00468 109815
Tel.: (054) 10514
mailbox@tanemb.se

Switzerland
47 Avenue Blanc, CH, 1201 Geneva, Switzerland
Tel.: (004122) 731 8920
Fax:(4122) 732 8255
Tel.: (045) 412661
mission.tanzania@itu.ch

UK
43 Hertford Street, london W1Y 8DB
Tel.: (0171) 499 8951 & 491 3600
Fax: 0171-491 9321
Telex:(051) 262504
tanzarep@tanzania-online.gov.uk

USA
205 East 42nd St., New York, N.Y. 10017, USA
Tel.: (212) 972 9160
Fax: (212) 682 5232
Tel.: (023) 234702
tzrepny@aol.com

2139 R. Street, Washington D. C.20008 USA
Tel.: (202) 9939 6129
Fax: 001 202 797 7408/Tlx: (032) 64213
tanz-us@clark.net

Weather

Tanzania has two seasons with long rains from late March until June and a short rainy period, which runs from November until mid January. The long rains are defined by heavy downpours and storms, very slippery roads that require robust 4 wheel drives only.

The dry season is actually June to October but the nights tend to be chilly. Remember to pack warm clothes and a light blanket especially if you’ll be camping out.

Health

Part of Tanzania lies in Equatorial belt with dense rain forest and thus malaria is a major health hazard. We recommend that you take precautionary Malaria treatment and drugs of you are travelling to area near Lake Tanganyika, Lake Victoria and Mount Kilimanjaro region. Pak long sleeves safari clothing to avoid insects bite and also wear insect repellants just in case.

Yellow fever vaccinations are a legal requirement for entry into Tanzania. Please note you will require a yellow fever vaccination certificate upon your entry to Tanzania.  Other diseases that will require precautions and prior immunization include Hepatitis A & B, Typhoid, Tetanus and Cholera.

Safe drinking water is not a guarantee in remote Tanzania region but we suggest you stock on sealed mineral water before you proceed on Tanzania safaris.

Language and communication

English is widely spoken in Tanzania, but a few basic words of Swahili is always greatly appreciated as you relate with the different people you meet along the way. Some of the commonest Swahili words for courtesy are Jambo (Hello), Nzuri (fine), Habari (how are you?) and you Tanzania tour guide will teach you some more before you proceed on to your safari destination.Bottom of Form

Tanzania travel and Safari clothing

Tanzania safari clothing should be limited to lightweight, washable clothes, a light sweater, a sunhat, sunglasses and sunscreen. Long sleeves and trousers in light-colored material are encouraged if your going on game drives, clothes like khaki are strongly preferred over orange and light green.

Shorts for women are acceptable as long as they are not too short. Wrapper skirts are essential if you are visiting more remote areas as revealing clothes are offensive in some communities. Pack your swim suit just in case you want to swim at the beach or in a pool at your lodge.

Pack all your belongings in one bag and may be a small bag for camera and phone. Baggage on safari should not weigh more than 20kg. Keep your suitcases and other heavier items at your hotel and valuable items like passports in safe deposits at the hotel reception. It is strongly advised to take out travel insurance for your safari luggage and may be medical insurance too.

Security

Tanzania is a generally safe country but don’t invite temptation. Keep your eyes on your baggage. Walking in the streets in the night is not safe. Don’t carry cameras or large amounts of cash, beware of pickpockets and hawkers. Use hotel safety deposit boxes to safeguard valuables and obtain a receipt. Leave valuable jewellery at home.

Photography

Every one wants to take home a piece of safari as souvenir. Digital camera and video recorders are encouraged for Tanzania and African safaris. Do not forget to carry a sturdy padded bag for your carry to protect the lens from dust and extreme damage on falling. There may not be enough film and extra batteries in shops…bring plenty of these on African safari or stock more from shops in Dar or Arusha. It is only courteous to ask permission before photographing the local Tanzanian people.

The local electricity supply is 220 volts, 50 cycles ac. Bring a universal adaptor and a torch (flashlight) or headlamp for camping trips.

Shopping in Tanzania

The Tourist areas and wildlife lodges sell a wide range of souvenirs, jewellery and sculptors. There are road side stalls selling the souvenirs cheaply but you have to trust your bargaining power with the sellers. Swahili words are recommend in the trade.

Tanzania is a unique safari destination in east Africa with so many wildlife game parks to discover, birds to visit, incredible landscape features and crowned with interesting friendly people.

Tanzania safaris have a wide range of excellent accommodation options from luxury five star Tanzania Hotels, luxury safari lodges and tented campsite, budget bush camps and other Tanzania accommodation options to choose from. All Tanzania accommodation varies with different standards and quality each directly impacting on the total safari travel cost. It is common that Tanzania safari companies and travel agents will include your Tanzania accommodation and lodge in Tanzania safari packages

Tanzania Hotels

Each of the major cities and towns in Tanzania has a wide range of Tanzania hotels for overnight accommodation to tourists and business travelers. There are hotels in Dar-es-salaam the capital, in the safari town of Arusha, in Dodoma and from all other small towns located near different Tanzania National parks.

Tanzania hotels have well furnished rooms with private Balconies, satellite television, telephones and 24/7 room service. The hotels offer swimming pools, internet services, gift shops, restaurants, bars, conference facilities, lush backyard and gardens and many other facilities.

The hotels range from luxury five star Tanzania Hotels, standard 3star/4 star accommodation, boutique hotels and budget simple Tanzania hotels. Tanzania hotel prices will range from USD 60-599 per night depending on the town, type of hotel and the season. Cheap Tanzania hotel packages are available in the off peak season of July to November

Tanzania safari lodges

These Tanzania safari accommodation options are found in areas near and within Tanzania National parks and game reserves. They range from luxury safari lodges to cheap Tanzania game lodges-depending on the national park you are visiting on your Tanzania safari.

The luxury and semi-luxury Tanzania travel lodges are usually located in frequently visited National parks like Serengeti and Ngorongoro. Rooms are elegantly furnished, have magnificent views over park, swimming pools, private Jacuzzi, satellite television and telephone, 240V electricity, day care services, conference facilities and gift shops. Some of the luxury safari lodges in Tanzania are the chain of Serena lodges or Sopa lodges.

The standard game lodges resemble 3 star hotel accommodation but these are tucked away in the wild with grass thatched chalets, fitted bathrooms, en-suite bathrooms, air conditioned rooms and restaurants serving game meats and international cuisines.

Tanzania Safari Camps

Tented camps are a more popular way of experience Tanzania safari as these have permanent canvas tenting facilities located near serene, quiet spots like on river banks. Tanzania tented camps have large walk-in canvas tents erected on platforms with private en-suite bathroom facilities with hot showers, quality restaurants, bars and some have swimming pools

Bush camps are familiar with backpacking tourist in Tanzania and often uses public campsites, which all offer basic facilities including communal toilets, washing areas, hot showers and usually a bar. At campsites all meals are served outside, using tables and chairs. they have budget accommodation rates but tourists are encouraged to bring their own drinking water, food, guides and take enough fuel supplies.

Tanzania has around 14 national parks and more than 10 game reserves occupying more than 45% of the land in Tanzania. Tanzania is the largest country on East African safari and has more vast game parks and than are significantly the largest in east Africa. Besides the large game park area, each of Tanzania national parks is gifted with several herds of wild animals, Big five being the commonest in the Tanzania game parks.

Arusha National Park is a small beautiful Tanzania safari Game park just 29km form Arusha town. The park marks the start to Tanzania wildlife safaris introducing you to most of Tanzania’s wildlife before you proceed on to other Tanzania game parks like Serengeti and Lake Manyara in the neighborhood.

The Serengeti National Park hosts the annual wildebeest migration and is ranked as Tanzania’s most famous national park. It receives more than 50,000 tourists each year, most of them hoping to find the migrant wildebeest herds and others expecting to find large prides of the Serengeti lions that feature in many wildlife documentaries across the world. Game drives are a popular way to experience the vast plains of Serengeti while luxury hot air Serengeti balloon safari are another way to view much of its abundant areas. There are several luxury safari lodges in Serengeti, tented camps and bush camps just in case you want a night in the wild.

The Ngorongoro Crater Game Park is one of the most densely crowded wildlife areas in the world and is home to an estimated 30,000 animals living in an un flooded crater 2566m above sea level. The crater is also a good birding site hosting several flocks of pink flamingoes to Lake Magadi and many other water birds.

The Lake Manyara National Park is from the western escarpment, beyond Arusha town and is famous for its tree climbing lions and water birds that visit the lake-Manyara that occupies a third of the park’s area.  June to September and later in January- February is the long dry season that makes the best time to tour Lake Manyara National park, particularly for game viewing while the wet season of October to December is good for birding safaris in the park

Tarangire National Park is another outstanding Tanzania National park named after Tarangire River that crosses and drains its waters through the park’s savannah and woodlands. The outstanding herds of elephants that roam Tarangire Park are its emblem for Tanzania Africa safari. In the dry season, the river is the sole place to find water in the park making a spectacular outpost for several of Tarangire wild animals.

Mount Kilimanjaro National park is found on the slopes of Africa’s tallest free standing mountain-Kilimanjaro. Most of the visitors to this area come with Kilimanjaro mountain climbing intentions other than visiting the park. The park is a charm that Mount Kilimanjaro climbers/hikers can not escape!

Sadaani National park form the Indian Ocean coast can not go without mention. It is part of Africa’s few game parks on the beach coast. This park is engraved in tropical rain forest, mangrove swamp and lush Wamu River delta.  The beach is a unique breeding ground for green turtles, Humpack whales (Nyangumi) and dolphins (pompoo) from the nearby ocean waters.

Other Tanzania National parks and reserves receive fewer visitors and are found in the remote south central part of Tanzania. They include Ruaha National park, Udzungwa Mountains, Mkomazi, Mahale Mountains National park , Gombe Stream National Park and Mikumi National park. From northern Tanzania, Rubondo Island National park from Lake Victoria is a charm that is toured by those that can venture last the cold breeze of the lake.

Game Reserves in Tanzania

Mention of Game reserves in Tanzania and Selous Game reserve will be top of the list. Selous in found in south east Tanzania and is actually the most visited Tanzania game reserve compared to others. Sangita game reserve is on the northern safari circuit near Grumeti River and is actually part of the migrant route of animals on the annual wildebeest migrations.

Other small game reserves are found in southern Tanzania include Maswa Game reserve neat Serengeti, Lukwika-Lumesule on the birder with Mozambique, Kigosi game reserve, Moduli mountains game reserve neat Arusha Park and many others. Many of these game reserve share birders with major Tanzania national parks and often facilitated free movement of wild animals in the same area.

Having the chance to experience a luxury Hot air balloon rode in any part of the world isn’t a treat just for anyone! For Serengeti National park, the hot air balloon safari is just another amazing wildlife safari excursion like no other.  On one early morning, you’ll have an eagle’s eye views over the animals below, the vast Serengeti plains and also exceptional opportunities to capture beautiful moments and sights.

On the morning of your safari, you’ll be collected from your Serengeti Safari lodge as early as 5h00 to the hot air balloon launch site near Masaai Kopjes. The drive to this launch site is rewarded with sights of Serengeti’s nocturnal predators like lion, leopard, jackals and sound of laughing hyenas as they retire after nightly hunt in the wild. It is the only time you have to take some of their picture as they creep around the bush.

On reaching the launch site, the balloon pilot will foremost give you some briefing as you watch the inflation of the balloon with hot air.  Every Morning, a pair of Hot Air Balloons launch into Serengeti skies carrying 12 fortunate people as the sun sets its first rays on the savannah.

The pilot can control the altitude of the hot air balloon: sometimes taking you to a height of 1,000ft altitude for a breathtaking panoramic view of the Serengeti plains or flying at treetop level giving you the chance to take great pictures of Serengeti wildlife below.

Seronera River and valley area is the first destination on your luxury African safari. Watch different animals as they visit the river banks to have a morning drink. Many of the predators will be found lying very quietly in the wild. Some of the spotted game includes lions, buffalos, leopards, hippos, cheetah, vultures, wildebeest and eagles as identified by the balloon pilot.

From time to time, the pilot will need to put more heat into the giant hot air balloon giving a gentle roar of the burners as you glide silently over the wild African savannah.

The memorable safari lasts for 2-3 hours and soon the pilot instructs you to keep way your cameras and head for the balloon descend. As soon as the balloon lands, a bottle of champagne or sparkling wine is popped to celebrate the experience that only comes once in a life time.

A sumptuous full breakfast is served in an umbrella tree near the landing point as you view different Serengeti animals. Sunbirds will make the music for the breakfast and some times elephants and other small mammal will arrive to accompany you on the breakfast table.

You’ll receive your Serengeti Hot Air Balloon Certificate before being driven back to your luxury safari Lodge or campsite, viewing game animals en route. The adventure safari is more convenient if you are staying in a lodge in central Serengeti. The rates for the Serengeti Hot Air Balloon ride are between USD 500-700 depending on the peak season and weather. A relative experience is also given in Masai Mara game reserve on a Kenya Safari.

Serengeti National Park ranks as Tanzania’s number one wildlife safari destination thanks to its diverse habitat of vast open savannah grasslands, acacia thickets, forests, woodlands, rocky outcrops, and rivers that make a rich habitat fro several game, insects, birds and small mammals.

Even with the annual Serengeti Migrations of animals to the neighboring Masaai Mara in Kenya, the park still remains with several wild animals to view on game drives. Some of the game in Serengeti includes buffalos, zebras, giraffe, hippos, crocodiles, warthog, gazelles and antelopes like the bushbucks, dik dik, elands, elephants, reedbuck, waterbuck and impalas. Predators are also a regular sight with many spotted hyenas, leopards, cheetahs, African wild hunting dog, serval, jackals and prides of lions.

Serengeti Wildlife safari

There are several ways to experience Serengeti’s wildlife but the most prominent is safari game drives and the luxury Serengeti Hot Air Balloon safari. Other styles will include birding walks, guided walking safaris and helicopter flights.

Wildlife Safari routes in Serengeti

Serengeti is found on the northern Tanzania safari circuit that includes other parks like Lake Manyara and Ngorongoro Crater Park.  Serengeti however is the most visited safari game park occupying more than 15,000sq km.  The vast safari game park is thus divided into a number of safari routes that are popular spots for game viewing.

There are savannah plains and rocky outcrops called Kopjes in the south, the Seronera river area from the south central part, northern corridor that links to Masai Mara game reserve in Kenya and the western corridor that stretches from Grumeti River to the shore of Lake Victoria. Covering all these safari routes on Serengeti Tanzania safaris is not an easy adventure-it normally takes 2-3 days safari to conclude all the safari routes.

The rolling grassland plains of Serengeti are seemingly endless but occasional outcrops and trees are part of the scenery in the southern part of the park. More than 3 million years ago, Ngorongoro volcanic mountain erupted created the renowned Ngorongoro crater and also spilling volcanic ash over the low lying plains on the foot hills. The molten lava soon dried to form hard coat that doesn’t allow deep rooted vegetation. The grass that grows on the Serengeti are short root but very rich in minerals. The short rains in October up to November usher in new grazing pastures for the calving season in January and February when lactating animals enjoy the nutrient grass.

Seronera River and Valley is a very game rich area in the southern part of the park. The river drains the dry savannah attracting several animals for the dry season as they search for drinking water. There are many Tanzania safari lodges and camp built near the river for excellent game views of animals like buffalos, hippos, predators and crocodiles live near the muddy riverbanks.

Game drives are a popular way of experiencing the wildlife in the area. Seronera river circuit and Kopjes circuit have been ranked as the best game viewing areas in Serengeti.

Lake Ndutu Basin has very good game viewing opportunities from December to May every year as animals congregate here before they begin the annual Serengeti migrations. Many wildebeests and gazelles calve from these rich grasslands before the great migration start. Predators like lions, hyenas and cheetahs are seen roaming around on the hunt for hesitant calves. Lake Ndutu is a seasonal lake surrounded by beautiful acacia woodlands that feed giraffes and birds are too abundant in this area.

Simba Kopjes are named after the lions ( Simba –in Maasai language), which frequently lie and bask on the rocks as they take sight of their potential prey.  Also in the area are baboons, different birds and giraffes among other Serengeti wild animals.

Western Corridor is a spectacular 50km wide strip west of River Seronera. The corridor runs along Grumeti River, through valleys, forests, swamps and stretches all the way to Lake Victoria some 8km from the park. Grumeti River is a popular game viewing spot in the park that attract several herds of animals in due course of the annual migration in May/June. Hungry predators like the lions and crocodiles are often part of the game seen along the river banks. This is the ultimate time to experience the Serengeti migrations before animals cross to the Mara in July.  Other animals that live in the woodlands that fringe Grumeti River include giraffes, eland, impalas, hartebeest, colobus monkeys and huge hippos. There is plenty of accommodation on the river bank such as Grumeti River camp.

Lobo Area from northern Serengeti is another scenic section of the park marked with rolling Lobo hills, rocky outcrops, acacia thickets and woodlands and doted grasslands. The annual migrations cross through Lobo hills before meeting the gush of Mara river further in the north. Lobo kopjes are excellent area for viewing animals on the migration. There are several lodges that offer accommodation for Serengeti tourists in the area with wide balconies from where visitor take sight of the migrant herds.

The Moru Kopjes in the far north are traditional game viewing area for big cats like lions, hyenas and leopards on the hunt for animals on the migration route. The area is also famous with Masai herdsmen because of its nutrient grass pastures. There are paintings on some of the rocks done several years ago by masaai herdsmen who were though to use the rock for shelter as they grazed their cattle herds.

Serengeti Hot Air Balloon Safari

This is surely a luxurious way to go on Serengeti wildlife safari. Departures are often early in the morning for the gratifying 6-hour flight that often ends with a sumptuous breakfast and a toast to the memorable safari experience. Take a good camera to record your journey as you glide silently over the vast plains, the same way it is done in Masai Mara Game Reserve. The pilot often lowers the balloon by reducing the air in balloon often reaching tree top level-there is no better time to take pictures as this!

Ruaha National park can be described as Tanzania’s unique remote wildlife habitat, the second largest game park in Tanzania but rarely included on Tanzania wildlife safari packages of many visitors. The park is part of the larger eco-system of Tanzania game reserves such as Rungwa, Kizigo and Usungu game reserves form south central Tanzania. The park today covers 10,300sq km of open grasslands, miombo woodlands, swamps, rivers, dotted acacia trees and with dramatic escarpment views to the east.

The Great Ruaha River gives its name to this game park since it flows along its south eastern border as a tributary of Rufugi River. This river used to flow in the park all year long but due to environmental degradation, intense use by herdsmen and rich farming-much of the river has turned into a dry sand bed

Game Viewing

Ruaha Park has large herds of elephants, buffalos, lion prides, grater kudu, sable antelopes, African wild dog, cheetah, leopard, lesser kudu, roan antelopes, Grant’s gazelle, spotted and stripped hyenas, impala, waterbuck, and giraffes among other animals.

Several birds (more than 450) have been recorded in the park, among them crested barbet, yellow sunbirds, lovebirds, starling, kingfisher, hornbill, white stork, and many other migrants.

Best time to visit

The dry season begins in May and ends in late December giving long periods of game viewing. The long dry season is famous for game drives for Ruaha’s dense predator population that roam the dry river beds in June to November when it get extremely very dry in the park..  January to April is the rain season which is excellent for bird watching.

Ruaha National park is reached by both road and charter flights from Dar, Selous and Serengeti National park. By road, Ruaha is 10 hour journey from Dar-es-sallam and 8 hours from Arusha via Dodoma.

Accommodation in Ruaha National Park is of wide range and some of the options include; Ruaha Hill Top Lodge, Tandala Tented Camps, Mwagusi Safari Camp, Mdonya Old River Camp , Ruaha River Lodge, Kwihale and Jongomero Camp

Selous Game reserve is actually one of Tanzania’s prided game reserves thanks to its undisturbed eco-system that made it a UNESCO World heritage site in 1982. The reserve is part of the larger Selous eco-system that covers 90,000sq km that includes other Tanzania national parks such as Mikumi national park, forest reserves and managed Kilombero wildlife areas. It was named after Englishman Sir Frederick Selous, a famous big game hunter and early conservationist, who died at Beho Beho in this territory in 1917 while fighting against the Germans during World War I.

Selous reserve is dominantly covered in miombo woodlands; acacia trees growing on moulders, ground water forests, swamps, rivers and savannah that accounts for 44, 800sq km of the entire park area. Much of the park is a protected hunting ground except for the north and north eastern region on the banks of Rufigi river that are reserved as photographic tourist region. It is the same region that are recorded as the best outpost on game viewing drives.

River Rufigi is an exceptional feature of Selous Game reserve, draining the norther part of the game reserve with tributaries like Ruaha, luhembero and Kilombero. The river floods in during the rainy season carrying sand and soils to the river beds that define much of Selous reserve’s landscape.

Wildlife in Selous Game reserve

The rich bio-diversity in Selous Game reserve has maintained a precious Selous game habitat for several mammals. Rufigi river and its tributary streams attract several game for the dry season with significant large animals like elephants, rhinos, buffalos, lions, leopards, hippos, spotted hyena, African wild hunting dog, and others. Other smaller animals include wildebeests, waterbuck, impala, zebras, hartebeests, kongoni, eland, reed buck, cheetah, sable, greater kudu, klipspringer, side stripped jackal, puku, red duikers and many others. Several primates have also found home in the forest woodlands among them red colobus monkeys, Sanje crested mangabey, white and black colobus, baboons and many others.
More than 350 of Tanzania’s birds live in Selous reserve with notable species being knob billed duck, ground horn bill, beateuler eagle, woodpecker, Udzungwa forest patridge, rufous winged sunbird, Kilombero weaver, wattle crane, corncake, lesser kestrel, marabou stork and many others.

Selous Game Reserve Accommodation

There are several luxury safari lodges to find within Selous game reserve, camping sites and tented safari accommodation that meets standard Tanzania safari accommodation. Selous Game lodge is one of them with luxury safari accommodation; well furnished rooms, fitted bathroom, excellent game viewing outposts from the verandas overlooking Rufigi river.

Other safari lodges along Rufigi include Selous safari camp, Lake Manze Selous camp, Selous impala camp, Rufigi River camp Selous and Sable Mountain lodge. Beho-Beho is an interesting hill in the reserve with excellent overview of the game reserve,outdoor good camping grounds and some of the historical sites like Sir Fredrick Selous grave.

Udzungwa National Park is another of Tanzania’s national parks from the Eastern Arc Mountains is part of south central Tanzania. The park covers about 1990 sq km on the slopes of Udzungwa Mountains at 250m altitude to 2,500m above sea level on Lohomero Peak.

The park is considered to be another rich eco-system with several unique attributes as those of neighboring Mikumi National Park. Some of the unique plants species in the park include buttresses layers of fungi, lichens, mosses, ferns, forests.

Sanje waterfalls are a prime attraction, plunging 170m in a misty spray over a rock. The beautiful water falls are a fascination for Udzungwa tourists and hikers.  The trail to Mwanihana peak is another challenging hiking trail that lead through sugar estates and into the high plateau- takes about 2 days to reach this peak that ranks as second highest on Udzungwa Mountains

Different primates are commonly seen in the forest while on nature trails and some of them include Sanje crested mangabey and  Iringa red colobus that are endemic to this Tanzania park and found no where else in the world. Other sights within the parks include different species of forest birds, butterflies, insects, amphibians, reptiles and other small mammals.

Getting there

Udzungwa mountains are reached en-route to Mikumi and Ruaha Tanzania parks. The park is 5hours drive from Dar-es-salaam (350km) and 65km south west of Mikumi National park. The best time to visit the park comes around June to October  for the best hiking  experience before the short rains come in to bring the plants to blossom.

Camping is allowed within the park but you are cautioned to take your camping supplies like water, firewood and food. The are two game lodges located near the park gates with comfortable accommodation such as Udzungwa Forest Tented camp.

Tarangire National park is one of the largest safari game parks in Tanzania yet receives minimal number of tourists in a year. The park occupies an area of more than 2,600sq km south east of Lake Manyara National park, near the safari town of Arusha (to the south west)

The Tarangire River crosses through the park draining into several swamps and floodplains found in the park. The rest of the park area is covered in grasslands, traditional baobab trees, doum palms, acacia woodlands and many other trees recorded to be more than 100 years old

Wildlife

The dry season that starts in June and ends late in November is a good time to visit Tarangire for game drives. Several species of the Tarangire eco-system are then spread over the plains with regular sights like zebras, wildebeests, buffalos, elephants and impala. Other animals within this Tanzania national park include Thompson gazelles, fringe-eared oryx, kongoni (hartebeests), kudu, dik-dik,, hippos, baboons, vervet monkeys,  lion, spotted hyena, bat eared fox, jackals, rock hyrax, ground squirrel, porcuopine, civet, mangoose, waterbuck, giraffe, cheetah and many other animals.

The Tarangire Migrations are known to take place around the dry season. Many animals such as a few antelope species, hartebeest, predators and wildebeests migrate north west to lake Manyara national park and further north in the search for water and fresh pastures. The long rains of April and May will force the herds back into the park marking their annual local Tarangire migrations.\

Birdlife

More than 350 different birds are recorded to have nests within Tarangire. The best time for birding safaris in Tarangire are October to April when many Eurasian migrants flock in for the duration of the European winter. Some of the sights seen in the park include saddle billed stork, ostrich, open billed stork, sacred glossy ibis, marabou stork, green backed heron, goliath heron, kestrels, harriers, buzzards, eagles, eagles, kingfishers, bee eaters, European rollers, lilac breasted roller, horn bill, wood peckers, sunbirds and fly catchers among other birds.

Tarangire Park Accommodation

The are several exlcusive safari lodges with luxury safari accommodation within Tarangire National aprk and some of the options include Tarangire Sopa Lodge found within the park, Tarangire Treetops lodge and Tarangire Safari lodge are located north border of the park. Mawe Ninga Tented camp is a luxury safari camp within the camp in the north west near Tarangire hill. Other camoing sites within the park include Swala camp on the fringes of Gursi Swampand Oliver’s camp on the banks of Tarangire river to the south part of the park and many other public campsites.

The park is reached by road from Arusha (118km) and by light charter flights from Arusha and Serengeti. From Lake Manyara National Park, Tarangire is 7km on Dodoma highway, an then 1km off  to the main gate near Tarangire Safari Lodge.

Mikumi National Park was gazetted as a Tanzania national park in 1964 covering an area of 3230sq km thus ranks as the fourth largest national park in Tanzania. Mikumi is bordered by Selous Game reserve to the south, Udzungwa Mountains in the south east and Ulunguru Mountains in the north. the park is however part of the Tanzania national parks are less visited as compared to counterparts like Serengeti.

Wildlife in Mikumi

The park is predominantly open savannah grasslands with scattered acacia and baobab tree, Mkata river basin plains in the North West and mountains rising beyond the horizon. The flood plains attract several animals such as elephants, crocodiles, hippos, buffalos, wild dogs, jackals, kudu, wildebeest, sable and roan antelopes, monitor lizards, lions, pythons and giraffe-making it the richest part of the park that has good game viewing opportunities.

More than 300 different birds live in this park including lilac-breasted roller, yellow-throated longclaw, ground hornbill, kingfisher, oxpeckers, marabou storks and Bateleur eagle. The floodplains are excellent for birding safari when the rains come- the swampy areas attract a host of European migrants for this time of the year.

How to get there

The park is located 283 km west of Dar es Salaam. There is a tarmac road linking Mikumi to Dar es Salaam via Morogoro, a roughly 4 hours drive. There are charter flight schedules from Dar and Arusha airports with an airstrip in neighboring Selous Game reserve in the north.

Where to stay

There are a couple of luxury safari lodges (Foxes Safari Camp and Vuma Hills camp) within the park and tented camps such as Jimbiza Selous lodge and Mikumi guest house near the park gate.

Saadani National park is the only of Tanzania’s national park or reserve located near the Indian Ocean. Gazetted as a national park, the park covers 1100 sq km today along the Indian Ocean beach including former Mkwanja ranch, Wami River and Zaraninge rain forest that occupies nearly 200sq km of the total park area.

The former Saadani game reserve was greatly endangered by poaching and human settlement before it was gazetted into a national park in 2002. The habitats include Wamu river delta, coastal shrubs and thickets, rainforests, marshland, coastal beach and others. The park is just 3 hours drive from Dar-es-salaam along Moshi road. Charter flights are available from Zanzibar and Dar-es-salaam airport.

Wildlife in Saadani park

The former cattle ranch is now a rich wildlife habitat with several large and small mammals including giraffe, buffalo, elephants, rare giant brown bats, eland, sable antelope, yellow baboon, vervet monkey, warthog, lions, common waterbuck, reedbuck, hartebeest, wildebeest, red duiker and greater kudu antelopes. The water dams within the ranch attract several animals in the dry season thus good game viewing opportunities. (January to February and June to August)

The river delta is toured on boat rides thus like muddy hippos and crocodiles are seen in the shallow river banks besides the various water birds that visit the area. Some of the birds seen here include king fisher, lesser flamingo, fish eagles and other visiting sea birds. The beach is a major breeding ground for sea turtles, humpback whales and dolphins. Some of these are seen on boat trips on the ocean where the tide is low.

Saadani Accommodation

There is one Tanzania safari lodge within the park-Saadani Safari Lodge. It has about 9 tented chalets overlooking the beachfront, fitted bathrooms, well furnished suite and restaurants. Other lodging options for Saadani National park include Kisampa Bush retreat and Tent with a View lodge.

Mkmazi National park is found on the northern safari circuit of Tanzania tucked away in the remote Usambara and Par Eastern Arc Mountains that overlook the shadows of the snow capped Kilimanjaro in the North West. The reserve occupies an area of 3,245sq km bordering Tsavo West National park in Kenya

The former Tanzania game reserve is predominantly lined with dry savannah grasslands, Nyika bush and shrubs, giant baobab trees, scattered rocky outcrops, umbrella like acacia trees among other scenic landscape features

Wildlife in Mkomazi

As part of the abundant northern safari circuit national parks, Mkomazi has plenty of game, some of it crossing from Tsavo in Kenya. The park boasts of several herds of giraffes, zebras, eland, hartebeests, elephants, buffalos, fringe-eared oryx, lesser kudu, gerenuk, gazelle, impala, leopards, cheetah and lion.

The park has an important conservation sanctuary for the black rhinos that were previously endangered by intensive poaching in the area. The African wild dog is also classified as an endangered species and thus is listed in the sanctuary breeding efforts.

Several birds have made Mkomazi Tanzania park home including doves, martial eagles, horn bill, guinea fowl, violet wood hoopoe, chested vulturine, ostrich, kori bustard, secretary birds, European roller and many other birds

How to get there

By road, Mkomazi is easily accessible via Same town on Arusha-Dar es Salaam highway. Charter flights are available to Kisima airstrip and private pick ups are arranged from Kivingo and Umba gates. The Zange main gate is 112 km from Moshi, 550 km from Dar es Salaam airport  and 142 km from Kilimanjaro International Airport.

Visiting Arusha National park for your Tanzania Arusha safari will be … hitting two birds with one stone! The park is found gazetted in the 552sq km valley area that overlooks Mount Meru and Mount Kilimanjaro located some 50km away. This tanzania wildlife park is a short distance from the town of Arusha that is preferably called a safari town by Tanzania’s tourist traffic. There are several things that make Arusha park a unique Tanzania safari destination among them are the Momella lakes, Ngurdoto crater, the savannah grasslands, peaks of the mountains Meru and Kilimanjaro, swamps, rain forest and most of all its wide range of African game.

Attractions and sights

Several beautiful plants are found within the park and some of the unique plants include the Spanish moss, giant lobelia and heath, acacia and spiky vegetations, fig trees and olive trees among other plants. Mount Meru is a major feature with the park lying on its lush forested and savannah covered slopes. The rugged peak of the mountain stands at 4556m above sea level. Climbing Mount Meru is a dream hike for all visitors that visit Arusha. Ngurdoto crater is found on the peak of the volcanic mountain surrounded by lush forest vegetation and savannah grass to the floor. On a clear day, the skies of Arusha Park are illuminated by the tallest freestanding mountain Kilimanjaro and its snow capped peaks in the early morning by Ngurdoto crater outposts. The shallow Momella lakes are also an important to the Arusha National Park eco-system and like all rift valley lakes; the lakes have alkaline waters that attract flocks of pink flamingoes that enjoy the algae that grows on the water surface. More than 400 birds are recorded in this park including the Euro-Asia migrants that arrive in October escaping the harsh cold winters in Europe. Regular birds sighted in the park include waders, martial fish eagle, African marsh harrier, European roller, sunbirds, pelicans, herons and the Taita falcons among other species. There are several species of Mammals that live in the park. Regular sights include giraffes feeding on spiky acacia trees, elephants roaming the plains, buffalo, zebra, red forest duiker, leopards, warthog, reedbuck, klipspringers, bushbuck, spotted hyenas, trogons, black and white colobus monkeys, Turaco, warthog and many others Getting there Arusha National Park is accessed via Kilimanjaro International airport or through Arusha Airport. The park is just a 40 minutes drive from Arusha town to the west rift valley escarpment region. The park introduces you to Tanzania’s northern safari circuit parks such as Lake Manyara Park and the famous Serengeti National Park. Accommodation in Arusha National park is very luxurious and budget camping too is available. Arusha Momella camp has splendid Tanzania safari accommodation as well as from Kudu Lodge and camp, Mt. Meru Game lodge, Ameru river lodge, E Unoto Retreat, Amboseli Porini  camp and many other found in the suburb towns of Arusha.

Kitulo National Park in Tanzania is a beautiful botanical expanse locally called Bustani ya Mungu-Garden of God while others refer to it as the Serengeti of Flowers for its vast spectacle of wild flowers! The park covers and area of 412km² on Kitulo Plateau rising to rugged  peaks of 2,600m for Kipengere and Poroto in southern Tanzania district of Mbeya

The park protects Kitulo Plateau’s unique floral/ orchid species and the Livingstone Forest, the Afroal pine grasslands and its wildlife.

Flora diversity in Kitulo

Kitulo National park was gazetted in 2005 for its floral beauty thus protected Tanzania’s orchids and other unique plant species with an aim of promoting Tanzania tourism. The rains in the period of December to April will bring the grasslands and orchid to life with blooming plants and brightly colored flowers.

More than 45 different orchid species such as aster daisies, lilies, giant lobelia, yellow-orange red hot poker, aloe, protea, geraniums and other different species are recorded as endemic to southern Tanzania. A walk in the park, off the Livingstone mountains and in the forest will relieve the weary and stress of an intense Tanzania safari experience.

Birds in Kitulo

Kitulo plateau is an important birding area for Tanzania safari. Birds such as Denham Bustar, Blue swallow, lesser kestrel, Njembe cisticola, Kipengere seedeater, Pallid harrier and many others are endemic to this plateau.

Other wildlife spectacles within this Tanzania safari park include mountain reedbuck, eland, lizards, frogs, chameleon, butterflies, spiders and other small insects. The summer time from September to November is good to spot the few animals that live in this park, a comfortable time for hiking to the mountain and plateau peaks.

Getting there

The temporary park headquarter are at Matamba located some 60 km from Mbeya town. The main road from Dar leads through Chimala in the south on a dusty orad called Hamsini na Saba -78km to the park gate at matamba. Reaching the plateau from Matamba park gate will take you one hour when driving with a robust 4WD.

Accommodation within this new Tanzania Park is very limited but there are several options from Mbeya town’s hotel, guesthouses and camps near Kitulo Matamba gate of near the farm. There are two church hostels near Matema beach for cheap Tanzania safari accommodation.

Katavi National park is one of Tanzania’s remote wildlife parks from the southwestern region that receive minimal tourists compared to those that are recorded for Serengeti or Lake Manyara Park in the northern safari circuit.

Katavi Park occupies an area of 4,471sq km and is ranked third in Tanzania’s largest National park. The park is found within a larger Katavi-Rukwa eco-system that roughly cover 12,500sq km of enormous grassland plains, wooded areas, shrubs, swamps, rugged hills, lakes, rivers, valleys, hotsprings and so much more

Attractions in Katavi Park

The park area extends to include the rift valley cliffs, Rukwa Game reserve, Luwati Game reserve , Lake Rukwa, lake Chada, Katuma River, seasonal lakes like Katavi and the Chada floodplains. Other beautiful features within the park include hot springs like Kasima and Ikuu, Ndido, Chorangwa and lloba waterfalls, Rukwa valley cliffs, Magogo Pools and many others

Lake Rukwa is a shallow lake bordering Rukwa and Luwati game reserves with a rich habitat for wildlife in Katavi. The surrounding area is a good hunting ground besides its lush rainforest habitats.

The Karema-Inyonga-Tabora slave route passed through the protected are in the Park bringing to light the historical diversity of this Tanzania safari park. There are also Stone age and iron age sites, towns recorded with 19th century existence and many others of the same kind near Wamweru Hills and Katabi tree near the airstrip.

Katavi Park Wildlife

Game viewing in Katavi National Park is best during the dry season, the savannah plains fill with herds of zebra, topi, elephants, impala, lions, hartebeest, vervet monkeys, giraffe, buffalos, Defassa waterbuck, spotted hyena, wild dog and the elusive leopards are found roaming in the woodlands. Katuma and Kappa river are the sole water points within the parks and several herds of game flock the riverbanks for an afternoon drink. You’ll find hippos and crocodiles along the river banks.

The park is a protected habitat for endangered species such as the African wild dog, cheetah of Mbuga ya Duma, roan and sable antelopes found in llumbi, Lake Katavi elands and many other smaller mammals.

The rainy season in Katavi National Park Tanzania brings more than 400 species of birds to life in the marshy lake shore, forest woodland, beyond the escarpment and valleys. Large flocks of open-billed storks, vultures, saddle billed stork, spoonbills, paradise fly-catchers, hammerkop, crested cranes, fish eagles, African golden orioles, pink-backed pelicans and pennant-winged nightjars among other s are found within the park’s diverse bird habitats.

Katavi Park Accommodation

Katavi Tanzania park share its accommodation facilities with the neighboring Mahale Mountains National Park located in the same area. There is accommodation from Chada Katati camp, Katavi Wilderness camp and many other small campsites with basic camping facilities.

Access to the park

The park is linked by an airstrip that receives charter flights from Dar-es-salaam and Arusha twice a week-Monday and Thursday.

By road, the park is reached by driving from Mbeya for 550km or from Kigoma port town near Lake Tanganyika for 390km. the railway crosses from Dar-es-salaam to Tabora, from where you can get public means to Sitalike and proceed on to the park. Roads within the park are often flooded during the rainy season but mid-December to February is good for game drives. The dry season is on from May to October and is the best time for game viewing around the pools.

Lake Tanganyika is one of the longest fresh water lakes in the western rift valley region in Tanzania. The lake is the second deepest lake stretching over the border of Tanzania with Zambia, Burundi and Democratic republic of Congo that occupies much of the lake. It extends for 676 km and it is 50km wide-in total, the lake covers 32,900sq km with its banks stretching some 1,136sq km.

There are several rivers that pour their water into Lake Tanganyika such as Ruzizi, Malagarasi, Kalambo and other smaller water streams. Gombe Stream is a compact but important wilderness rich in primate species and made famous by Jane Goodall‘s scientific study of chimpanzees.

Mahale Mountains are part of Lake Tanganyika and make the valley in which the lake is found. The region and slopes of the mountains are recovered in dense lush forest famous for the primates on Lake Tanganyika safaris.

Kigoma port and the surrounding are also renowned for its nearby chimpanzee reserves.10 km south of Kigoma is Ujiji; the oldest town in western Tanzania and also a ‘slave trade’ town settled by Arabs. Here visitors are able to see the Dr. Livingstone Memorial whilst walking one of the former slave routes.

Lake Tanganyika has Tanzania’s largest fish number with several fish identified as aquarium fish. The there are 6 species of Tanganyika sardine, cichlid, brightly colored trophies genus, mollusks, jelly fish, copepods, crabs, shrimps, leeches and many other fish types. More than 100,000 people living around the lake in Tanzania depend on this fresh water lake for their livelihood and trade. Fishing is a leading activity on the lake and a number of fish boat line the lake shore before setting off for the evening catch.

Transport on the lake

Lake Tanganyika has two ferries that carry passengers, tourist and cargo from Kigoma-the main port to othr ports in DRC and Burundi.MV Liemba serves between Kigoma and Mpulungu in Zambia while MV Mwongozo runs between Kigoma, Bujumbura and Kalemie in DR Congo.

Lake Tanganyika Accommodation

There are not many Lake Tanganyika hotels and lodges but you can find accommodation from Lake Tanganyika hotel in Kigoma, Lake shore Lodge and campsite, Gombe Forest Lodge and Chada Katavi camp among others places.

Serengeti National Park is the largest national park on Tanzania northern safari circuit covering an area of 14,763km². The park is only part of the greater Serengeti eco-system that stretches into southern Kenya in Masai Mara Game reserve, Ngorongoro Conservation Area and North West towards Lake Victoria.  Serengeti (Siringeti) is a masaai world that means Endless plains.

Seerngeti has evolved overtime as the most prominent safari destination in Tanzania/ East Africa being that it features on many documentaries and television writings about the African wildlife especially because of its large lion prides among other game.

Sights within Serengeti

As a unique and the oldest eco-systems in the world, Serengeti has so much that fascinates its visitors just beyond its vegetation and wildlife. The park is a vast savannah plain with occasional rocky outcrops/kopjes spread over the northern region, valleys, acacia trees and woodlands, water stream and rivers, small lakes and so much more.

The Serengeti Tanzania Park is sectioned into four distinctive safari routes and it may take you a day or two to explore each of the safari areas. The area are particularly of savannah plains and Kopjes in the south, a northern corridor linking up with the Masaai Mara in neighboring Kenya, Seronera River and campsites or lodges at the heart and finally a western corridor along the Grumeti River reaching the shores of Lake Victoria 8km away.

Annual Serengeti migrations are the main reason for Tanzania safari to Serengeti Park. More than a million animals move from the southern Serengeti plains in February in search of water and fresh grass pastures which they find more 300km away in the neighboring Masai Mara Game reserve in Kenya. The animals migrate and cross two rivers, Grumeti and Mara making an amazing spectacle of a sea of grunting herds.

Lake Ndutu in the south is a spectacular area to catch the Serengeti Big five and other animals early in the year (December to February). This seasonal lake is fringed by forest woods and you’ll see giraffes, flamingoes and other birds here. The area is a calving site for wildebeest and gazelles in January and February before they set off for their migrations later on.

The rocky outcrops (Kopjes) are an important past of the Serengeti eco-system. Many of the kopjes are famous outposts for lions, leopards and insects. Moru and Simba kopjes are identified for their big cats on the hunt. Besides, some of the kopjes have water holes which attract several herds of animals looking for water. The Lobo kopjes in the north are excellent outposts for wildlife viewing during the migration.

Serengeti wildlife

The vast park is gifted with the largest herds of African lion moving in herds of more than 10 members. The serengeti lion safari is a safari trip that no Tanzania tourist should miss. Other animals in the park include hippos, crocodiles, warthog, gazelles, buffalos, wildebeest, giraffes, crocodiles, impala, dik-dik, eland, reed buck, elephants, rhino, waterbuck, hyenas, leopards, jackals, servals, cheetahs, spring hare, porcupine, hyraxes, baboon, vervet monkey, colobus monkey, patas monkey, snakes, lizards and mongooses.

More than 500 birds are recorded in the park alone, minus the migrant species that flocks in from Asia and Europe in the onset of the winter season that last from October to April. Some of the birds regularly seen here include flamingoes, vultures, storks, sun birds, ostrich, martial fish eagles and many others.

Getting there

Serengeti is reached by air via Kilimanjaro and Arusha airport using charter flights that land in the airstrip near Seronera river or at Kirawira in the north west that cost around USD 150 and 250 per person

By road, the park is reached using  private vehicle, cars and hired tour vans from Arusha through Lake Manyara National Park, western rift valley escarpment, Ngorongoro crater area, farmlands, past Olduvai Gorge and then to Naabi hill gate which is the main park gate. The journey from Arusha is about 325km and 8 hours drive.

When to visit

The safari experience on Serengeti National Park goes on all through the year but different safari activities in Serengeti have specific timing. The rainy season that starts in March and ends in May, with short rains in October and November –it is the best time to visit Serengeti on Tanzania birding safari however the road are indeed slippery and only robust 4X4 vehicle can access some parts of the park.

July up to August has less game viewing opportunities as most of the herds move on the annual migration trails into northern Serengeti crossing over to Masai Mara Game reserve in Kenya. The herds later return in November and thus create great game viewing time up to late February.

Serengeti Safari lodges and accommodation

Serengeti safari lodges define luxury safari overnights to the dot. There are a number of excellent safari lodges located near the Seronera area, being a game crowded region in serengeti. Such include Serengeti Sopa lodge, Serena Serengeti lodge, Lobo Wildlife Lodge, Seronera Wildlife Lodge and Ndutu Safari Lodge near Olduvai Gorge among others. The safari lodges usually offer fully equipped en-suite bathrooms, private verandas and elegant furniture.

There are also several tented camp, 12 bush camps and public campsites that include Kijesereshi Tented camp and lodge-south of Nsabaaka Gate, Serengeti Migration camp around the Lobo area, Kensington camps, Mapito tented camp, Grumeti river camp, and many others . The public campsites have basic facilities, some without running water but African night sounds dominate the night fall among them are laughing hyena, roaring lions, cooing owls, cricket, croaking frogs-ofcourse under a star-filled sky. T

Ngorongoro Crater from Tanzania is not your ordinary African safari destination. The crater is actually the largest unbroken volcanic caldera in the world. Within the crater a several species of mammals making it the richest wildlife zones in Africa, perhaps in the world!

Facts about Ngorongoro Crater

The crater was formed as a result of volcanic activity some three million years ago. When the giant volcano mountain (estimated at 4500m-5800m) exploded, the peak collapsed into a wide open caldera, some 610 metres deep. The crater floor covers 260 sq km of montane forest on the steep crater walls, open grasslands, bushland, scattered Euphobia and acacia trees. Olmoi, a small crater in the northern part is drained by Munge a small water stream that pours its water into Lake Magadi at the centre of the crater floor. There are other smaller streams that run in the park such as Lerai in the south.

Ngoitokitok Springs from the north eastern crater wall is another sight within the crater. There is a swamp that fringes the springs and many other small springs are found around the crater floor. The Ngorongoro Crater is only open from 06h00 to 16h00 and allows 6 hour safaris either in the early morning or late afternoon game drives.

Ngorongoro Conservation Area

The Ngorongoro Conservation area NCA is a large conservation stretch that covers the eastern rift valley region occupying close to 200sq km west of Arusha town in Tanzania. The conservation area is a UNESCO world heritage site that includes Ngorongoro crater, Serengeti plains and the archeological site of Olduvai Gorge.

The conservation area was created to protect the wildlife that lives in this area and at the same time support tourism to this area. The conservation efforts of the Ngorongoro Trust include the local community efforts. The masaai herdsmen who graze cattle from this crater are part of the many people whose livelihood depends on the crater.

Wildlife in Ngorongoro Crater

More than 300,000 animals live in the crater with the most remarkable density of African predators recorded south of the Sahara. Predator make up more than 10,000 of Ngorongoro crater wildlife with 62 lions, leopards, spotted hyenas, jackals, endangered African wild dog, servals and rare sights of cheetahs among others

The wildebeest in Ngorongoro number to more than  5,000  herds, 4,000 zebras, 3,000 Thompson’s and Grant’s gazelles, buffalos, hippos, mountain reedbuck, eland, zebras, waterbuck, elephant, rhinos and many other animals.

The alkaline soda Lake Magadi attracts more 200 different species of birds including thousands of pink flamingoes that feed on the growing lake algae, pelican, heron, sunbirds and fish eagles among others.

Trails and Routes

The crater has well designed and mapped out route and safari trails with two routes having one way traffic into the park. The road east of the crater near Lerai forest is used for traffic from the crater park. On the North West wall is the main road for descending traffic. Mainly guest from the Ngorongoro Sopa Lodge uses the third road, in the north-eastern corner of the crater, in both directions.

Ngorongoro crater lodges and campsites

Accommodation for Ngorongoro crater tourists is not within the park/ crater but is found on the edge of the crater.  Safari lodges found on the rim vary from luxury Ngorongoro crater safari lodges to budget bush camping facilities. From the crater rim, are spectacular views of the crater, its wildlife and safari trails.

Ngorongoro Crater Lodge is a prime tourist lodge found on the crater rim with thatched cottages, en-suite bathroom, offers game drives and excellent dining in the wild. There are two picnic and toilet spots – the one in the Lerai Forest and at the other at the Ngoitokitok Springs located in the south-eastern section of the park.

The Serengeti National Park in Tanzania accounts for the longest and largest over land migrations in the world. The Serengeti plains cover over 18,641 square miles of rich eco-system, one of the most diverse in the world  with habitats for animals such as Africa’s big five game in addition to wildebeest, zebras, giraffes, snakes and reptiles among other species.

Serengeti Wildebeest Migrations

The Serengeti migrations are an old African legend listed as one of the 7^th wonder of the world. The great migrations are more than million of years old and happen every month of the year throughout the Serengeti plains. The annual migration of wildebeests is a 500 miles path from Tanzania to the Masai Mara Game Reserve in Kenya.

The migrations include more than one million wildebeests, 300,000 gazelles, 200,000 zebras and more than 10,000 elands, topi, warthog, Kongoni, waterbuck and other smaller animals. The significant herds are typically followed on the trail by predators such as lions, hyenas, elusive leopards, wild dogs, jackals and vultures. The Annual migrations will kill off around 250,000 wildebeests each year-many die crossing the river, others are devoured by hungry predators and crocodiles and the rest die from extreme hunger/thirst before they reach the new pastures.

The growing herds were thus forced to migrate in their search for water and grazing grassland, starting the circular migratory route following the dark rain clouds that shift far into the northern Serengeti Plains as the year goes on. Timing of the migrations may not be so exact as all migrating animals entirely depend on the rainfall patterns

Serengeti Migrations by Months

January –February Migrations-the herds of the animals early in the year are found in the southern Serengeti plains feeding on the short grass sprouts. Many animals choose to stay around the Seronera River are and others move close to Ngorongoro Crater and Ndutu. This marks the Seronera/Ndutu local migrations within Serengeti

Calving season is a short time (lasting about 3 weeks) begins around February around the nutrient rich grass of Ngorongoro Conservation area. However many calves are born to the sight of several predators such as lions, hyena and leopards-it is the best time to see African’s predators in the Serengeti.

March to April migrations- the grasses around Ngorongoro begin drying up with onset of the dark clouds in the north. Some herds of zebras and wildebeest begin concentrating in the Ndutu plains or near Kusini on the western corridor of Serengeti Park towards Lake Victoria. April is associated with heavy rains in the central part of Serengeti and towards the western corridor. Game drives to this area are often restricted due to the bad roads

May to June Migrations-the rains in the central focus the herds to move slowly and further into the western corridor towards Grumeti River that now has green grass for pastures. Some of the herds begin to cross the river where hungry Nile crocodiles await for the hesitant and frail ones. The scene is beautiful and those living around the camps (Serengeti Grumeti Tented camp, Grumeti River Camp and others) on the Grumeti river banks enjoy a spectacular sight

July to August and September Migrations – the wildebeest migration moves to the far northern plains near Masai Mara Game reserve. The scene at the Mara River is most spectacular and is a draw for many tourists to Mara game reserve in Kenya. The animals are a grunting sea of life fighting the gushing water to cross over to the greener side in Mara Kenya. Some animals decide to stay in the Serengeti and move North West towards Lake Victoria

It’s common to see herds cross the Mara River north on one day, and then back south a few days later. By September, the animals are spread all through the Masai Mara game reserve, some moving further into the north. Get Kenya Accommodation from Governor’s camp and Mara river camp to enjoy the sight!

October to December migrations- the grass plains are long drying up in the Mara and thus animals congregate again around south of the Mara to shift back to the Serengeti now replenished with fresh pasture. The animals cross the river to western Loliondo and Lobo area and move further into the south around December.

The Serengeti wildebeest migrations then continue the routine migrations for another year…and on and on

More than 50% of African safari traffic comes to East African on Tanzania wildlife safari expecting to see Africa’s big five game (African cape buffalo, African elephant, lions, leopard and rhino). Tanzania is the largest country from the east African safari circuit with wide National parks and reserves stretching several miles offering equally amazing game viewing opportunities

Lion safaris in Tanzania

The African lions have been a great fascination for many Africa safari tourists especially for those that come to Tanzania. If your safari game drive/walk doesn’t give you sights of the black manned lions moving in prides of more than 20 members then something must have gone wrong with your Tanzania safari itinerary

Tanzania’s National parks are actually the most famous for African Lion safari beside the African Big Five safaris. Many documentaries and Television shows featuring Africa’s loins have been produced in Serengeti National Park Tanzania. Other Tanzania National parks with these beasts include Lake Manyara national park, Ngorongoro Crater Park and Lake Ndutu.

Tree climbing lions

Lake Manyara National Park Tanzania is famous for its tree climbing lions also sighted from the Ishasha sector tree climbing lions of Queen Elizabeth National Park in Uganda . It is a mystery that lions (especially lioness) lounge high in umbrella like trees scattered within the park-some people suggest that these lions are escaping the intense ground heat of the mid day sun or to escape the flies and ticks from the bush! There are many theories surrounding their character

From Serengeti National park, the lions concentrate around the Seronera River area that is considered a rich habitat for several animals. Other lions will be sighted from the protruding Masai kopjes, Barafu Kopjes, Ngare Nanyuki River area and Simba Kopjes. The Simba kopjes are named after the African lions called Simba in the local Masai dialect-in this area re many lion prides.

Ngorongoro Crater is one of the richest caldera and parks in Tanzania with several herds of different animals. Lions within this park are found roaming the bush and savannah for the day’s catch. You’ll find other predator within the crater such as leopards, cheetah, jackals, hyena and many others.

There are many Tanzania tour operators and safari companies that will arrange the Tanzania lion safari trip to parks and reserves from the northern safari circuit. The Tanzania lion safari packages normally includes personalized/ tailored Lion safari itineraries, accommodation, hired vehicles, park entry fees, game drives and other game viewing activities plus Tanzania flights. Accommodation is available from a wide range of Tanzania safari lodges and camps within the parks. Options include Serengeti Sopa lodge, Serengeti Serena Lodge, Ndutu Lodge and other campsites around the different Tanzania National parks.

Tanzania safaris normally start in the small safari capital called Arusha. The town is located in north eastern Tanzania on the foot hills of Mt. Meru with scenic views of the Kilimanjaro. This safari town is also the gateway to Tanzania safaris on the northern circuit National parks such as Serengeti National park and others from northern Tanzania

Arusha National park

Arusha Park Tanzania is the prime attraction within this safari town. It is the smallest of Tanzania National Parks and Reserves covering just 552km² in the north eastern part of the town. The park lies on the slopes of Mt. Meru standing at 4566mabove sea level and has clear views of the Kilimanjaro Mountain illuminating the Tanzanian skies 50km away as Africa’s Tallest freestanding mountain.

Within the park are Momella lakes, swamps, unique plant species such as Giant lobelia, Spanish moss, Ngurdoto crater, lush savannah plains, woodlands and so much more that create a rich eco-habitat for different wild animals and birds. Some of the animals within the park include giraffe, elephants, buffalo, zebra, the unique red forest duiker, warthog, reedbuck, klipspringers, spotted hyenas, white and black colobus monkey and birds such as flamingoes, pelicans, herons, fish eagles, African marsh harrier, Taita falcons and many others.

Arusha safari accommodation

Part of Arusha sights are long abandoned plantations of tea, coffee and sugar plantation that have been converted into secluded and remote Arusha hotels, lodges and estates and cottages. There are actually only two lodges within Arusha National park including Mt Meru Game lodge and Mt two rest houses, camp sites, two mountain huts inside the park; more lodges by Usa River away from park as well as various hotels as well as hostels in Arusha area.

Other Arusha safari accommodation options include Arusha Impala Hotel from the city centre; mount Meru Hotel on the slopes of Meru, River Tree Lodge, Mountain Village Lodge is just 15kms from Arusha town, Dik-Dik hotel, Kigongoni Lodge and many other options that cover guesthouses, Inns, motels and self catering apartments.

Getting there

Arusha is served by an airport called Arusha Airport (ARS) used or predominantly domestic flights and private charter by tourists on northern Tanzania safari circuit. Alternatively, Arusha is accessed by air from Mount Kilimanjaro International Airport, then pick a private vehicle for 60km drive from the airport to the town. It normally takes around 40 minutes to arrive in Arusha.

If you are solely travelling by road from Nairobi, Arusha is only 4 hours away but full of adventure, beautiful scenery that will take the thought of the long journey

When to visit

Arusha safaris are best experienced all through the year. If Mount Meru climbing is what you are looking forward to, then June to February is the time you should target. Kilimanjaro mountain snow capped peak is best seen from Arusha town sky around December to February

Tanzania is definitely a wonderful country to go to, packed with awesome wildlife, extraordinary vistas along with a rich cultural heritage and tradition. Being the largest Safari country in East Africa, there is so much to cover from its prime attractions like Mt. Kilimanjaro to the vast plains of the Serengeti National Park and other sights. This Tanzanian travel guide will equip you with all Tanzania safari details, destinations, attractions, hotel and accommodation and everything you need to know about Tanzania tourism.

Tanzania safari destinations

Tanzania is probably the oldest African safari destination whose safari tours started way back in the 19^th century with Arab trader and European merchants. The are several Tanzania safari and tour companies that can organize and schedule a memorable safari itinerary through Tanzania’s national parks, to the scenic majestic mountains hikes and trekking and cultural safaris within the local community.

On the northern safari circuit, you will be able to make a trip to a number of interesting destinations such as the famous Serengeti National Park, Tarangire National Park, Ngorongoro Crater, Lake Manyara and also Lake Eyasi. Actually the northern safari circuit gives you the best sight of Tanzania’s wildlife; prides of lions, buffaloes, elephants, zebras, leopards, crocodiles, birds and so on. The Serengeti grassland plains are the most exciting place to be on a safari; you can view Tanzania’s game from a hot air balloon safari in the morning, take an open vehicle safari or go trekking in the bush for closer interaction with the animals and the wilderness. Be sure to catch the annual wildebeest migration in September as animals cross from the dry Serengeti grasslands into the lush fresh grass in bordering Kenya, Masaai Mara National park and be witness to one of the wonder of this wild world.

Selous Game Reserve, one of the largest animal reserves worldwide in found in southern Tanzania and is home to buffalos, hippos, elephants, crocodiles and other animals. In western Tanzania you will discover the actual renowned Gombe Stream, Tanzania’s smallest national park. Merely reachable by means of boat, this specific jungle rift was initially made prominent by Jane Goodall that examined chimpanzees there. Other interesting parks and game reserves include Ruaha national park, lake Manyara national park and the safari town of Arusha- Arusha National Park.

Climb to the Uhuru peak on Mt. Kilimanjaro, Africa’s root top and the largest free standing mountain in the world. Many renowned and international artists, naturalists and conservationists have tried their efforts to hike to the glaciated peak standing at 5,895m above sea level.

Take some time off to visit the 3 main islands of Zanzibar, Pemba and Mafia whose winding streets are engrossed in centuries of ancient history and cultural heritage for the time of the Arabs and European intruders. Zanzibar in particular is a UNESCO world heritage site, one of the oldest trading centres and stone towns in the world. The architectural work of the ancient Oman bungalows are evidence of its ageless beauty especially on the northern tip of the island. The Indian ocean coast is a warm place to be with beautiful beaches, beautiful people that form the unique Swahili culture that has prevailed since the 15^th century.

Tanzania Travel tips

Tanzania is gifted with tropical climate since it is crossed by the equator . Temperatures are quite uniform varying according to landscape and altitude, thus, the coastal regions remain warm al through the year and the areas surrounding the mountains are usually cooler and wet. The summer is on from December to March and is surely the best time to go on a Tanzania safari while the rainy seasons set in around March to May. Hiking Kilimanjaro Mountains is safer during August to October and January to March. Birding safaris in Tanzania remain good all through the year.

Be sure to pack adequate and the right safari clothing ;long sleeved light clothing, a wide brimmed hat, sunglasses, comfortable walking shoes and other accessories like a good camera, sunscreen lotion, a pair of binoculars and anything you may need on an African safari tour. Malaria is rampant in the tropical region, around the mountains and forests thus pack or get your malarial medication and prescriptions to be on a safe side.

Arrivals and departures are handled from mostly Dar-es Salaam and Arusha International Airports. You are however required to have a visa that can be purchased online or booked and got immediately after arrivals. It is important that you get a. It is important that you get a Tanzania travel map and tour guidebook that will be your point of referral when need arises. You can alternatively travel by land, either by road from South Africa or by train using Tanzara railways that crossed to Tanzania via Kigoma from Zambia and Zimbabwe. Domestic travel is by hired/ rented vehicles or by chartered aircrafts to the destination of your choice.

There are number of Tanzania hotels, safari lodges and camps in every major town and near every attraction or tourist destinations that you intend to visit that for overnight accommodation, from the most luxurious hotels to the simplest cottages and budget accommodation options located in the most remote locations possible. Booking in advance is required and necessary for hotel accommodation.

Check with any trusted safari and tour operator and Tanzania travel information details online for the best Tanzania safari packages and deals. Travel agents will help you arrange your safari tours in Tanzania and also escort you to every attraction, providing needed help and information to make your Tanzania safari memorable and relaxing.

An African safari tour is not the same without a visit to the famed Mount Kilimanjaro on your East African safari and tour itinerary. Located on the boundary between Kenya and Tanzania, Mount Kilimanjaro may be the highest mountain within Africa. It comprises a few extinct volcanoes, and facilitates a few distinctive ecosystems; alpine desert, rain forest, glaciers, heath, plus moorland. Kilimanjaro is the highest freestanding mountain in the world, majestic and illuminating the sky of the vast Serengeti plains. Uhuru Peak is the highest peak at 5,895m above sea level and each year invites thousands of enthusiastic tourists and hikers to its solid glaciers and snow capped peaks.

Climbing Kilimanjaro

Climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro isn’t a piece of cake, the mountain has steep snow inclinations that often make it a problem for climbers. You have be determined and physically fit to reach the roof top of Africa. There are 5 prime trekking routes through the forest and moor land areas before joining the south circuit route Kilimanjaro Machame route, Mount Kilimanjaro Marangu route, Kilimanjaro Climbing Lemosho Route, Kilimanjaro Rongai Route and Climbing Kilimanjaro Umbwe route. All the routes are technical climbs but the easier climb get underway on the Marangu route via Rebman glaciers and others on the way to the summit. You have to battle with altitude sickness to get the reward of reaching the peak.

Kilimanjaro trekking is best during the dry seasons precisely January to Mid-March with colder condition and clearer day light and later from June to around October. The mountains are beautiful as many plants and blooming giant heath and lobelia speckle the scenery plus some glaciers melt to bring life to the cold mountain slopes. The rainy season brings heavy downpours and colder temperatures of up 10ºC to the peaks of Kibo and Mawenzi making Kilimanjaro trekking quite difficult. December and November are the months to avoid when planning for Kilimanjaro climbs however many tourists visit the park and the mountain slopes during the Christmas and New Year holidays. Kilimanjaro has become a real well-known vacation spot in Disney world. It provides an integrated Harambe Reserve as well as Maharajah Jungle Journey trip within the theme park.

Kilimanjaro National Park

Mountain Kilimanjaro National Park found in the plains below is home to several species of mammals which enjoy the gazetted forest reserve and woodlands at the foot of the mountain. Regular sights include colobus monkeys, olive baboons, civets, leopards, mangoose, servals, herds of elephants, bush pig, Horombo grass mice, honey badger, lion prides and the shy Porcupines.

The distinct eco-system supports plenty of wild birds too and sights here include the noisy turacos, silver cheeked hornbills, long tailed mouse birds, Ruppell’s robin chat, black chested bulbul, streaky seed eaters, white neck ravens, malachite sunbird, and the list goes on, and on. Any birder will be pre-occupied and never bored on a birding trip to the mountain’s fringes.

For the best time and east Africa trekking, you ought to book your Kilimanjaro climb quite early, months before your arrival. There are a number of Kilimanjaro trekking companies that can arrange your trek to Uhuru, Kibo and Mawenzi peaks. Your Kilimanjaro trek will often be coupled with other safari trips and tours to the neighboring Mt. Meru, Kilimanjaro National Park, Arusha national park and other Tanzania safari destinations.

Flights and arrival are either through Arusha or Kilimanjaro International airport from where you can have an awesome aerial view of the majestic extinct volcano. Your safari itinerary and budget often depends on the number of days you’ll be on the hike, other tourist destinations and other personal preferences. Choose the best Tanzania safari and tour operator to handle your safari package.

Tanzania from east africa is quite a large piece of land to cover of you are on Tanzania East Africa safaris.Flying to Tanzania is a lot easy, there are 3 major international airports that handles the bulk of international business and tourist traffic as well as domestic flights within Tanzania

Dar-es-Salaam international airport (DAR), Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) and Mwanza aiport are the main international airport. There are several other airports basically handling domestic flights including Arusha ARK, Bukoba BKZ, Dodoma DOD, Geita GIT, Kigoma TKQ, Kikwetu LDI, Kilwa, KIY, Kisauni Zanzibar Airport ZNZ, Lake Manyara LKY, Lushoto LUY and many others. All Airports are under management of the Tanzania Civil Aviation Authority.

Air Tanzania is the national flier with reliable daily domestic flights throughout Tanzania .Other domestic fliers with Tanzania include Precision Air, Community Airline and others are charter air crafts including Coastal Aviation, Zan Air, Greystoke Aviation Ltd, Northern Air Ltd, Regional Air, Kilimajaro Aero club and many others

Some of the most popular flights to Tanzania are serviced by Emirates, South African Airways, Kenya Airways, British Airways, Ethiopian Airlines, Qatar, Virgin Atlantic, Swiss and many others. Booking cheap flights and tickets to Tanzania can be done through a trusted Tanzania safari and tour company, online through a travel website or from the airlines’ booking office in your country or from Tanzania

Booking offices for international Airlines

KLM Royal Dutch Airlines (Amsterdam), +255 22 213 9790,
Daily flights with a stopover in Kilimanjaro.

British Airways (London-Heathrow)
Tel: +255 22 211 3820,
Fax: +255 22 211 2629
Website: www.britishairways.com

Swiss International Airlines (Zurich)
Tel: +255 22 211 8870,
Sokoine drive, Luther House
P.O Box 2109, Dar es Salaam
Phone: +255  22 211 8870 – 3
Fax: +255 22 211 2808
E-mail: habari@mail.swiss.com
Website: www.swiss.com

Egypt Airways
Tel: +255 22 2136663/65,
Ohio street,, Movenpick Hotel
P.O Box 38331, Dar es Salaam
Fax: +255 22 2136664
E-mail:daressalaam@egyptair.com
Website: www.egyptair.com

Emirates (Dubai),
Tel: +255 22 211 6100,
Fax: +255 22 211 6273 / 284 3619
Website: www.emirates.com

Qatar Airways (Doha), +255 22 284 2675,

Oman Air,
JM Mall Centre,
P.O Box 19185, Dar es Salaam.
Tel: +255 22 2138 903 / 2121 926/2135 600
Fax: +255 22 2135 670
Email: omanair@cats-net.com Website: www.oman-air.com

TURKISH AIRLINES  -  Dar-es-Salaam
Room Number 1045, Airline Operators Block Julius Nyerere International Airport
Email: daressalaam@thy.com
Website: www.thy.com

Travellers and tourist on Tanzania safari holidays can have the best east African safari holiday if they book Tanzania safaris with a registered safari company or travel agent. Most Tanzania safari operators are registered and members of Tanzania Tours Operators Association (TATOTZ).

A good Tanzania Safari Company and tour agent should get you a package to interesting place like Lake Manyara, Serengeti, Kilimanjaro Mountain, Amboseli, Ngorongoro Crater Park and other places. On the Tanzania tour and holiday package should be your Tanzania holiday accommodation, hotels, flights and transfer arrangements. Tanzania safari and tour operators can arrange add-on safaris to Uganda and Kenya as a whole East African Safari package. All you have to do is enjoy your Tanzania safari and let the travel agent take care of your travels, tours and any other you may need. Some of the best safari companies and travel agents in Tanzania are listed below;

A. Safaris Tour Operator
Tel: +255 27 2504099
Email:anniedesouza@yahoo.com

Abercombie & Kent
Tel: +255 27 2508346/8
Website: www.abecrombie.co.tz

Abrojaley African Ajabu
Tel: +255 27 2500300
Email:info@abrojaley.com
Website: www.abrojaley.com

Active Tanzania Adventures
Tel: + 255- 784605785
Email: info@activetanzania.com
Website: www.activetanzania.com

Adventure Sports & Leisure
Tel: +255 27 2509706
Email: info@adsportleisure.com
Website: www.adsportleisure.com

Africa Bound Tours
Tel +255272548492
Email:info@africabound.com
Website: www.africabound.com

African Horizon
Tel: +255 27 2505990
Email:tanzania@african-horizons.com
Website: www.african-horizons.com

African Trails
Tel: +255 27 2504406/2503683
Email: africantrails@habari.co.tz

Ajabu Adventures
Tel: 0784659009
Email: info@ajabu-adventures.com
Website: www.ajabu-adventures.com

Angoni Car Hire & Tours
Tel:+255-27-250-8598.
Email: info@angoniadventure.co.tz.
Website: www.angoniadventure.co.tz

Arumeru Tours & Safaris
Tel: +255 744588721
Email: arumeru@habari.com.tz

Arunga Expeditions & Safaris
Tel: +255 (073) 2971780
E-mail: aruexpedition@yahoo.co.uk
Website: www.aruexpedition.com

Arusha Fortes
Tel: + 255 27 2506 094 & 254 4887
Email: info@fortes-safaris.com
Website: www.fortes-safaris.com

Arusha Naaz Rent a Car
Tel: +255 27 2502087
Email: arushanaaz@yahoo.com

Awaken to Africa
Tel: +255 787 312 636
E-mail: info@awaketoafrica.com
Website: www.awaketoafrica.com

Base Campsite
Tel: +255 27 2500393
Email:management@basecamptanzania.com
Website: www.basecamptanzania.com

Bear Foot Expedition
Tel: +255 754-36 83 32
Email: bear_foot07@yahoo.com

Bobby Trekking Safaris
Tel: +255-27-2505447
Email: bobbytrekking@habari.co.tz

Bongo Tours & Safaris
Tel: +255 22 774767

Bunmark Tours & Safaris
Tel: +255762900517
Email:bunmark@yahoo.com

Bushbuck Safaris
Tel: +255 27 254 4186
Email: bushbuck@bushbuckltd.com
Website: www.bushbuckltd.com

Classic Tours & Safaris
Tel: +255 27 254 3082-7
Email: info@comfortsafaris.com

Comfort Holidays
Tel: +255 27 250 9283
Email: info@comfortsafaris.com
Website: www.comfortsafaris.com

Crown Eagle Adventure
Tel: +255 754 263085 / 764 260
Email: sales@crown-eagle.com
Website: www.crown-eagle.com

Danny McCallum Safaris
Tel: +255 27 250 8454
Email: safari@dmstz.com
Website: www.dmstz.com

Destination Tanzania Safaris
Tel: + 255 754 275448
Email: inno@detasa.com
Website: www.detasa.com

Dorobo Tours and Safaris
Tel: +255 27 2508336
Email: dorobo@habari.co.tz

Duma Adventure Safaris
+255 27 2753226/8431
Website: www.dumaadventure.com

Duma Expeditions Ltd
Tel: +255 27 53639
Email: dumaexpediti.tours@kilinet.co.tz
Website: www.dumaexplorer.com

E.T.Treks & Safaris
Tel: +255 786 413334
Email:info@elefant-tours.com
Website: www.elefant-tours.de

East Africa Voyage
Tel: +255 27 2548890
Email: info@eastafricanvoyage.com
Website: www.eastafricanvoyage.com

Ebony Tours & Safaris
Tel: +255 22 2601459
Email: ebonysafari@raha.com

Eshkesh Safaris
Tel: +255 723 971 635
Email: mareinaholi333@hotmail.com

Fay Safaris
Tel: + 255 27 2545068
Email: tours@faysafaris.com
Website: www.faysafaris.com

Flash Safaris & Photography
Tel: +255 27 2544172
Email: info@flashsafaris.com
Website: www.flashsafaris.com

Flycatcher Safaris

Tel: +25444109 2544979

Email : flycat@habari.co.tz

Forters Tours & Safaris
Tel: +255 27 254887
Email: fortessafaries@fortesonline.com
Website: www.fortesonline.com

Fun Safaris
Tel: +255 27 2508376
Email: funsafari@tz2000.com

George Mavroudis Safaris
Tel: +255 27 2548840
E-mail: gmsafaris@gmsafaris.com
Website: www.gmsafaris.com

Good Earth Safaris & Tours
Tel +255 27 2508334
Email: ndashy@goodearthtours.com
Website: www.goodearthtours.com

Great African Safaris
Tel: +255 27 2548163
Email: info@greatafricansafaris.com
Website: www.greatafricansafaris.com

H & Q Unique Safaris (2000)
Tel +255 272553823
Email: uniquessaf@cybernet.com

Hartebeest Safaris
Email: hartebeest@habari.co.tz
Website: www.hartebeestsafaris.com

Hidden Treasures of Tanzania Safaris
Tel: 00255 744299326
Email: info@htt-safaris.com
Website: www.htt-safaris.com

Hoopoe Adventure Tours
Tel: +255 27 2507011
Email: information@hoopoe.com
Website: www.hoopoe.com

Interactive Tours & Travel
Tel: 022 2771126-7
Email: xcar@bol.co.tz

J. M. Tours
Tel: +255 27 2501034
Email: jmtours@habari.co.tz

Jackport Tours & Safaris
Tel: +255 27 2503272
Website: www.jackpotsafaris.com

Karibu Africa Safaris
Tel: +255 27 2504023
Email: karibuafricasafaris@bol.co.tz

Kibo Guides
Tel: +255 2504093, 0784 504093
Email: kibasaf@habari.co.tz

Kiliwarrior Expéditions
Tel: +255 27 2503678
Email: wilbrtill@yahoo.com

Krisha African Safaris
Tel: +255 784 510194
Email: info@krishasafaris.com
Website: www.krishasafaris.com

Kudu Safaris
Tel: +255 27 2508108
Email: kudu@habari.co.tz

Laitolya Tours & Safaris
Telephones: +255 27 2547536
Email: laitolya@habari.co.tz

Leopard Tours
Tel: +255 27 2504610-3 / 2508441
Email: leopard@yako.habari.co.tz

Lions Safari International
Tel: 2508264
Email: info@lions-safari-intl.com
Website: www.lions-safari-intl.com

M.S Safaris
Tel: +255 784466951
Email:josephbumi@yahoo.com

Macho ya Tanzania
Tel: +255 27 2534055
Email: macho-yatanzania@iwayafrica.com

Masai Giraffe Safaris
Tel: +255 754 282042
E-mail: masaigrafe@gmail.com

Mbogo Expéditions
Tel: +255 754 612045 /0784933013
Email: info@mbogoexpeditions.com
Website: www.mbogoexpeditions.com

Micato Safaris
Tel: 255787760780/255766716786
Email: inquiries@micato.co.ke
Website: www.micato.co.ke

Migada Adventures
Tel: +255 754370023
Email: info@migadadventures.com
Website: www.migadadventures.com

Milimani Adventures
Tel: +255 27 2544520
Email: info@milimaniadventure.com
Website: www.milimaniadventure.com

Mind & Soul Travel
Tel: +255 786 234070
Email: info@mindsoultravel.com
Website: www.mindsoultravel.com

ML Tours & Safaris
Tel: +255 27 2503191
Email: info@mltoursandsafaris.com
Website: www.mltoursandsafaris.com

Mount Kilimanjaro Safari Club
Tel: +255 27 2548869

Arusha Multichoice Safaris
Tel: +255 27 2506411
Email: multicho@habari.co.tz

Nature Discovery
Tel: +255 27 2544063
Email: info@naturediscovery.com
Website: www.naturediscovery.com

Next African Safaris
Tel: +255 754 288909
Email: info@nextafricans.com
Website: www.nextafricans.com

Nitoke Safaris
Tel: 0784 336150
Email:info@nitokesafaris.com
Website: www.nitokesafaris.com

Njake Tours & Safaris
Tel: +255 27 2553819
Email:njakesafaris@yahoo.com

Nordic Travel
Tel: 027 2541024
Emai:info@nordictraveltz.com
Website: www.nordictraveltz.com

Olosokwan Adventures
Tel: +255 756 363664
Email: info@olosokwanadventers.com
Website: www.olosokwanadventers.com

Pajota Safaris
Tel: +255 787 135995
Email: pajotasafaris@habari.co.tz

Park East Africa
Tel: +255 27 2506058
Email: info@parkeastafrica.com
Website: www.parkeastafrica.com

Parks Adventures
Tel: 255 27 250 9107
Email: info@parksadventure.com
Website: www.parksadventure.com

Peacock Tours & Safaris
Tel: +255 27 2501539
Email:wildfrontiers@habari.com.tz

Predators Safaris Club
Mobile: +255 754 562254
Email:intoarusha@yahoo.com

Procell Safaris
Tel: +255 22 2861276
Email: procell@procell.co.tz
Website: www.procell.co.tz Arusha

Real Adventure Co.
Tel: +255 732 972432
Email: realadventureltd@habari.co.tz

Reality Tours & Safaris
Tel: +255 27 2050107
Email:ymsechu@yahoo.com

Renaissance Photographic Safaris
Tel: +255 784 331711
Email: info@renaissancesafaris.com
Website: www.renaissancesafaris.com

Roy Safaris
Tel: +255 2507940
Fax: +255 27 2548892
Email: roysafaris@intafrica.com

Safari Direct Tanzania
Tel: +255784982858
Email: safaridirect@gmail.com
Website: www.safaridirecttz.com

Safari Images
Tel: +255 27 2751990
Email: images@bennets.co.tz

Safari Makers
Tel: +255 732 979195
Email: safarimakers@habari.co.tz

Safari Tracks
Tel: +255 27 2500048
Email: saftarcks@yahoo.com

Scan Tan Tours
Tel: +255 27 2504865/ 754 276980
Email: scantan@cybernet.co.tz

Semantango Safaris
Tel: +255 27 250 9511
Email: sematangotours@cybernet.co.tz

Serena Car Hire & Tours
Tel: +255 27 2509833
Email: serenacahire@habari.co.tz

Serengeti Big Cats Safari
Tel: +255 784 767299
Email: info@serengetibigcates.co.tz
Website: www.serengetibigcates.co.tz

Serengeti Select Safaris
Tel: +255 27 2544222
Email: sss@habari.co.tz

Shidolya Tours & Safaris
Tel: +255 27 2548506
Email: shidolya@habari.co.tz

Simba Safaris
Tel: +255 27 2503600
Email: samba@simbasafaris.co.tz
Website: www.simbasafaris.co.tz

Sky of Serengeti Safaris
Tel: +255 27 2546155
Email: skysere2004@yahoo.com

SOK Adventure Travel Specialist
Tel: +255 784 694624
Email:info@sokaadventures.com
Website: www.sokaadventures.com

Tanzania DMC
Tel: +255784554752
Email:info@tanzaniadmc.com
Website: www.tanzaniadmc.com

Tanzania Rift Valley Tours
Tel: +255 27 2504212
Email: trvtours@bol.co.tz

Tanzania Serengeti Adventure
Tel: +255 27 2544609
Email: tsa@habari.co.tz Residence
Website: www.www.abouttanzania.com

Tanzannature Tours & Safari
Tel: +255 27 2548804.
Email: info@tanzannaturetours.com
Website: www.tanzannaturetours.com

The East African Safaris & Touring Co.
Tel: +255 754 275452
Email: eastafricansafaris@habari.co.tz

The Map’s Edge
Tel: +255 784 770190
Email: safaris@maps-edge.com
Website: www.maps-edge.com

Thomson Safaris
Tel: 250-8551/254-8551
Email: tsafaris@habari.co.tz

Untamed Safaris (E.A)
Tel: +255 27 2544550/ 754 282181
Email: ultimatesafaris@habari.co.tz

Vuriva Complex & Safaris
Tel: +255 754 276699
Email:info@vurivasafaris.com
Website: www.vurivasafaris.com

Warner Safaris
Tel: + 255 27 2547421
Email: admin@warnersafaris.co.tz
Website: www.warnersafaris.co.tz

Warrior Trails
Tel: + 255 27 2546081
Email:infotz@warriorttrails.com
Website: www.warriorttrails.com

Wildersun Safaris &Tours
Tel: +255 27 2500358
Email: wildersun@cybenet.co.tz

Wildholic Safaris & Tours
Tel: +255 756 342242
Email: wildholic@hotmail.com

Wildlife Expedition Safaris
Tel: +255 27 250978
Email: wesafari@yahoo.com

Wildlife Guides of Tanzania
Tel: +255 786 025352
Email: pp@wildlifetanzania.com
Website: www.wildlifetanzania.com

Wildness Trails
Tel: +255 27 2500358
Email: info@tropicaltrails.com
Website: www.tropicaltrails.com

World African Safari Expedition
Tel: +255 27 250 4298
Email: wa-expeditions@habari.co.tz

Yembi Adventure
Tel: +255 754612700
Email: yembi@africaonline.co.tz

There isn’t any much better way to explore East African Safaris than the rich Tanzania tradition and people than by experiencing a safari in Tanzania. It is possible to select from Tanzania walking safaris, camping safaris, or luxurious Tanzania safaris, but they will all provide you with a distinctive encounter of African wildlife, birds, cultures, people and landscape. Tanzania safari packages are both affordable and easy to prepare, but a bit prior booking will produce the best Tanzania safari holiday in your looking for.

Wildlife Safaris

Tanzania safaris details are essential if you are planning a safari holiday in Tanzania Africa. A little homework and research into what this region has to offer can ease many journey dilemmas and make sure Tanzania safari holidays are simple to arrange and most of all enjoyable. Acquiring a thought of what you need to see and experience on a Tanzania safari will make the preparing significantly easier as well as your travel agency or agent will likely be in a position to tailor a package deal just to suit your needs.

For first time visitors the parks of the northern circuit offer a safari experience second to none. Arusha, is the starting point for a safari in Tanzania’s north and Arusha is best accessed from Nairobi or Kilimanjaro Airports. Safaris in the north usually include Ngorongoro Crater, The Serengeti, Lake Manyara National park and at times Tarangire National Park. A minimum of 5 nights is recommended.

Some options in holiday Tanzania safaris consist of Serengeti safari tours or Ngorongoro Crater for excellent wildlife drives. Tanzania safari tours normally include a climb to Mount Kilimajaro tour, safari trips to Usambara Mountains, Lake Natron’s flamingo flocks, or even the Udzungwa Mountains and Ruaha National Park. The Selous Game Reserve is another unforgettable destination on Tanzania safari tours and Mikumi safari will display you the incredibly best Kenya wildlife has got to present, with sightings of lion, buffalo, leopard, elephants, and rhinos common.

Tanzania Safari Itinerary

There are several itinerary packages with one-day tours, 2-day safaris, 5 day lion safaris, 7 day cultural safaris and many other packages.Tanzania safari itinerary can be tailored to one’s personal needs, preferences, budget, time and dates. The package also includes various options on accommodation directly impacting on the total safari costs.

One Day Safaris-The day trip will either take you to Arusha National Park, Tarangire or Lake Manyara national parks all located some few kilometers from the safari town of Arusha. Alternatively, all three can be combined to tailor a three-in-one safari adventure.

2 day Safaris-The two- day safari package is along the northern safari circuit destinations of Lake Manyara National and Ngorongoro Crater.Spend a night in the wild at any pf the luxurious safari lodges at the rim of Ngorongoro Crater or fly off to the safari town of Arusha and savor the vibrant night life before you retire in one of the splendid hotels here.

4 day Safaris-this is the most exciting adventure that will include visits to the vast plains of Serengeti National Park, meet the large lion prides and then continue on the trail for more widlife adventures to Arusha natioanal park, Lake Manyara National Park and then conclude the trip with Ngorongoro Crater’s spectacular views!

5 Day Safaris-This unforgettable Tanzanian safari journey will take you to the Ngorongoro Crater, teeming with thousands of animals in an unbroken volcanic caldera and later spend 2 nights in the Serengeti national park for spectacular sight of the annual wildebeest migration and finally enjoy Lake Manyara national park located at the foot of the western escarpment of the Great Rift Valley.

Tanzania Tour operators

Serengeti Wildebeest Migrations

Tanzania Safari companies are pleased to organize Tanzania safari tour dates and trips that utilize the northern safari circuit to present you with all of the activities and destinations Africa is known for. A Kenya and Tanzania safari might be blended so you don’t miss a thing. Tanzania safari travel agents are skilled and experienced in conducting a Tanzania strolling safari, or in case you choose, an adventure geared towards Tanzania big wildlife safaris.

A respected safari company will also offer the  of a Tanzania safaris guide, experienced with the habits of the wildlife that live on the African landscape, plus the safety measures necessary for a safe walking safari in Tanzania. A Tanzania safari vacation presents challenges and isn’t as a trip to some museum. You will catch a glimpse of incredible living creatures within their home, which tends to make Tanzania wildlife safaris exceptional amongst some other vacation.

Find sometime to visit the tree climbing lions of Lake Manyara National Park while on Safari Arusha Tanzania, something seen in only a few parks in East Africa.

East Africa Safaris

Most people today who take safaris to Tanzania are happy and keen to return. One trip is not enough to encounter the fullness of African Tanzania safari tradition or the abundant nature reserves. Kenya Tanzania safaris however are a plus on East Africa safaris; you’ll for example be able to experience the annual migration of wildebeest herds from Serengeti Tanzania to Masaai Mara Game reserve Kenya.

Here, some of Africa’s best game viewing country lies between Africa’s highest mountain – Kilimanjaro and Africa’s largest lake – Victoria. As if that were not enough Tanzania’s West is bordered by Africa’s deepest lake – Tanganyika; it boasts the world’s largest, intact volcanic caldera, Ngorongoro, Mt Kenya’s snow and glacier peaks or camel safaris from Northern Kenya’s Samburu area. tanzania alone is home to some 1000 different species of birds both woodland endemic and swamp-papyrus reed birds. some of these include herons, pelicans, pink flamingoes, stork, eagles, sunbirds, ostrich, peacocks… and the list goes on and on

Those who come for the game alone will be thrilled with the spectacle that Tanzania provides but look further and you will see that there is much more. Evidence suggests that East Africa is the Cradle of Mankind and some of the earliest known hominid fossil remains have been found here.

Beach Holidays in Tanzania

There is no better way to end your hectic mainland wildlife safaris than a trip to the serene and remote coastal beaches or a trip to the tropical island of Zanzibar, its dark slave trading history, there are the chimpanzee forests on Lake Tanganyika where the crystal clear waters make for fascinating snorkelling and there are remote national parks.

Zanzibar beaches Tanzania

The Tanzania Beach coast is a blend of Indian, Arab, African and many tribes creating a harmonious place to be. Tanzania-Zanzibar safari includes visits to Pemba Island, exotic resort beaches on Zanzibar famous with Tanzania Honeymoon safaris.

Pemba Island, forms part of the Zanzibar archipelago and offers excellent snorkelling & diving along its entire shoreline where numerous smaller islands give rise to magnificent drop offs and spectacular walls covered with a large variety of hard and soft corals and swimming with reef and game fish.

Hotels and Accommodation

Each of the major cities and towns in Tanzania has a wide range of Tanzania hotels for overnight accommodation to tourists and business travelers. There are hotels in Dar-es-salaam the capital, in the safari town of Arusha, in Dodoma and from all other small towns located near different Tanzania National parks.

The hotels range from luxury five star Tanzania Hotels, standard 3star/4 star accommodation, boutique hotels and budget simple Tanzania hotels. Tanzania hotel prices will range from USD 60-599 per night depending on the town, type of hotel and the season. Cheap Tanzania hotel packages are available in the off peak season of July to November.

Tanzania safari lodges

These Tanzania safari accommodation options are found in areas near and within Tanzania National parks and game reserves. They range from luxury safari lodges to cheap Tanzania game lodges-depending on the national park you are visiting on your Tanzania safari.

Tented camps are a more popular way of experience wild Tanzania safari as these have permanent canvas tenting facilities located near serene, quiet spots like on river banks. Tanzania tented camps have large walk-in canvas tents erected on platforms with private en-suite bathroom facilities with hot showers, quality restaurants, bars and some have swimming pools

You’ll find any kind of  Tanzania hotels and accommodations that suits your budget and package. many of these are located near and around leading Tanzania safari parks and attractions. These include luxury hotel resorts, Tented camp, luxury safari lodges, public campsites, guesthouses and bed and breakfast facilities.

LAKE MANYARA NATIONAL PARK TANZANIA

Lake Manyara National Park is located about 2 hours drive east from Tanzania’s safari town of Arusha. It is regarded as Tanzania’s smallest national park covering 318sq km. about 60% of the entire park is covered by Lake Manyara, a salty water lake that is 200km, surrounded by the Gregory rift from the Great Rift Valley western escarpment.

Right from the park gate, the park route goes through an expanse of abundant forest jungles, vast plains as well as floodplain with vast scenery over the alkaline Soda lake of Manyara and then blue volcanic highs that rise out of undulating Masaai steppes. Manyara is somewhere that the scenery and the dramatic setting are as much part of the experience as the game viewing.

Much of the park is covered by quite thick acacia woodland and so you need to drive slowly. In the northern section there are a number of clear streams, which flow from the porous rock at the base of the rift wall, whilst further south where the rock is impervious, waterfalls cascade down the escarpment face during the rainy season.

Lake Manyara Safari

The Park is best known for its tree-climbing lions and the elephant population that was studied by Iain Douglas Hamilton in the 60’s. Your chances of seeing elephant here are very good and as they are quite used to vehicles in this Park you will usually get very close. When it comes to lion, well – there are lions here and they are often seen, but not usually sitting in trees! There are quite a few places around East Africa where lions do climb trees (Selous, Katavi, Lake Nakuru, Queen Elizabeth and more) so the reason that Manyara is famed for them is just one of those odd things.

In addition to lion and elephant, Lake Manyara’s terrain is so varied that it is home to a diverse range of animal species and with a bit of luck you will see herds of buffalo, giraffe, zebra, hippos and perhaps leopard. The other up side to this park is the setting in which you see the game – it is spectacular. Back dropped by the rugged 2000ft escarpment, fringed by the green grass of the lakeshore and mirrored in the magnificent soda lake.

The corridor of acacia trees and shrubs is home to your renowned tree climbing lions, enormous tusked elephants, bushbucks, giraffes, zebras, buffalos, leopards, hornbills and more. Some klipspringer antelopes are often viewed by the rocky outcrops above an area of searing hot springs that gust next to the lakeshore from the southern end by the park.

Bird life in Lake Manyara Tanzania‘s varied habitats is also impressive and over 300 species have been recorded here. Like the other Rift Valley lakes, Lake Manyara’s water is alkaline and greater and lesser flamingo thrive on the algae. Bee eaters, crown eagles, heron, spines, Pink backed pelicans and yellow billed storks nest in one of the largest colonies of its type in East Africa at the northern end of the lake, which explains the foul smell as you approach from the village of Mto Wa Umbu.

White pelicans on Lake Manyara

Best time to visit

The park is just 120km from Arusha town driving 2 hours on a tarmac road west through the town of Mto Wa Mbu. The dry season starting from July until October draws in several herds of animals to the lake for some water, affording far better sights on game making it the best time to visit. The rains are in November until June bringing in great bird watching moments on canoe rides across the lake.

Lake Manyara Accommodation

Lake Manyara Camps and lodges are available around the park entrance near the town of Mto wa Mbu. There is a luxury tented camp from Kirumu Tented camp and other Lake Manyara camps Eunto retreat safari camp, Lake Manyara Serena safari Lodge, Lake Manyara view Lodge and Lake Manyara tree lodge set high on escarpment edge enjoying marvelous views of the Lake Manyara National Park, luxury rooms, en-suite bathrooms, restaurants, swimming pool and so much more luxurious facilities.

MOUNT KILIMANJARO

Kilimanjaro is the highest snow capped mountain in Africa at 5,895 m above sea level regarded as the roof top of Africa. The upper slopes are protected as a National Park. Up to 2,800 m of the dense forest shelters wildlife including buffalo, monkey, elephant and leopard, though they are rarely seen. Beyond this point, high heath meadows are home to strange plants, some of which grow to gigantic proportions. Above 4,000 m (13,000 ft) there’s nothing but a desolate plateau, capped with the famous eternal snows.

Mount Kilimanjaro Facts

Kilimanjaro is a stratovolcano, the tallest freestanding mountain illuminating the Serengeti plains skies with its snow and glacier peaks. There are 3 volcanic cones on the mountain, namely Kibo/Uhuru, Mawenzi and Shira. Uhuru peak is the highest peak on Mount Kilimanjaro standing at 19,340m above sea level.

Snow capped peaks on Kilimanjaro

The name Kilimanjaro originates from the chagga People living around the slopes of Kilimanjaro Mountain. It is translated as the Kilima Kyaro meaning that which can not be conquered. While other peaks are extinct, Kibo or Uhuru peak is considered dormant and could erupt anytime with the last volcanic activity recorded some 200 years ago.

The mountain and national park on the mountain slopes is a UNESCO world heritage site that one of pristine ecological life with tropical jungle, savannah, desert, exotic lobelia plants and motane forests.

German Geologist Hans Meyer, Yoans Kinyala Lauwo nad Ludwig Purtscheller were the first to climb Kilimanjaro in October 1889. Mount Meru, at 14,980m is used as a training ground for many Kilimanjaro climbers. It is located 45 miles west of Kilimanjaro and has scenic views of the snow peaks on Mount Kilimanjaro.

Mount Kilimanjaro National Park

Kilimanjaro National Park protects the area above 2,700 m on the mountain and includes the moorland and highland zones, Shira Plateau, Kibo and Mawenzi peaks. The Park also has six corridors or rights of way through the Kilimanjaro Forest Reserve. The Forest Reserve, which is also a Game Reserve in rich in exotic flora and fauna. You have the tropical rain forests, the montane forests, the moorlands and the alpine desert regions in between. Some of the sights within Kilimanjaro National Park include elephants, lions, giraffes, zebras, cheetahs and many others

The climate of the mountain is influenced by the prevailing trade winds which bring the heaviest rainfall to the south east forested slopes during March and May and short rains in

Elephants-Kilimanjaro National Park

November to December. Rainfall and temperatures normally decrease with altitude. January and February are the warmest months on Kilimanjaro safaris and are the best months of Kilimanjaro climbing.

Mount Kilimanjaro Hiking routes
There are six official climbing routes however guides are required and bookings must be made in advance with Tanzania safari and tour operator or with ant Tanzania travel website. They also arrange climbs on the Machame & Shira Routes and these are one-way ascent trails only and you descend via the Mweka Route. These trails are more challenging and much less used with less than 1500 climbers per year on the two of them.

The Marangu route on the East Side of the mountain is 34km long and the busiest of all 6 routes, most popular route to Uhuru Peak. There are three hut complexes along this route, which provide overnight accommodations, a dining room and toilets. This is a two-way trail in that you go up and come down the same way.

Climbers are encouraged to take 6days and 5 nights as the longer climb allows for acclimatisation time and both reduces the chance of serious health problems and increases the chance of a reaching the summit. Be ware of Kilimanjaro Altutidue sickness and malaria that may shorten your determination to reach Uhuru Peak

Machame route is the most scenic route and there is camping and hut accommodation along the route. it is however is for more adventurous climbers rewarding with splendid views on the slopes and up the glaciers melting down.

Lodging and camping on Mt Kilimanjaro Mountain is limited but there is enough/ all range accommodation from the base town of Moshi. There are no huts and tents must be carried for camping. Climbers are encouraged to take 6 or more nights to reach the summit. There are a few camps and huts along some routes for overnight like Machame hut and Mweka Hut

NGORONGORO CRATER

Ngorongoro Crater was once a gigantic volcano, taller than Kilimanjaro. When it collapsed a huge bowl ringed by 610 metre high walls, measuring 20 kms across and encompassing a total area of 260 sq kms was formed. Ngorongoro is the largest unbroken and unflooded volcanic caldera covered in green splendor, ranked as the most visited Tanzania Tourism destination.

Ngorongoro Crater Landscape

The crater as seen from the crater rim is made of open grassland plains, swamps, motane forests, small wooded areas, springs, rivers and salty Lake Magadi at the heart of the crater fed by Munge River. The rift escarpment shelters the crater park in the east and south form a wall that prevent game from migrating out the crater park in either direction.

The other major water source in the crater is the Ngoitokitok Spring, near the eastern crater wall although there are other smaller water springs within the park that feed the swamps. The crater plays host to almost every individual species of wildlife in East Africa, with an estimated 25 000 animals within the crater.

Ngorongoro Conservation area

Ngorongoro Crater makes up only 3 percent of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, a rich and vast wildlife habitat and eco-system that includes Serengeti National park and Serengeti eco-system, plains, volcanic highlands, the lesser Empakai Crater and the Great Rift Valley escarpment to the south east.

The protected area declared a UNESCO world heritage site in 1979 covers 180km west of Arusha Town and is the only protected area providing a sanctuary for several herds of game together with monitored human activity by the Masaai herdsmen.

The annual migration passes through the Ngorongoro Crater Area (NCA), with herds of wildebeest and zebra moving south into the area in December and moving north in June into Kenya’s Masaai Mara. This movement changes seasonally with the rains and growth of fresh green pastures. The NCA has a healthy resident population of most species of wildlife; in particular around Ndutu Lake area to the west has strong predators like cheetah and lions.

Ngorongoro wildlife safaris

The Ngorongoro crater is home to some 30,000 different species of wildlife, one of the most wildlife crammed parks and volcanic caldera in the world. Half the game population in the park is herds of wildebeests and zebras. Other large herds within the Ngorongoro Crater Park include Thompson giraffes, elands, elephants, reedbuck, buffalos, waterbuck, hartebeest, black rhinos and many others

With such wide range of potential prey, you’ll find several predators patrolling the plains for a day’s kill. There are some big prides of black manned lions, leopards, cheetahs, spotted hyena, servals and jackals.

Aside from the fact that there are very large numbers of animals here, one of the things that makes the Crater so good for game viewing is the great visibility. There are many places from which you can get sweeping views of the crater floor and identify animals at quite a distance. The rains come in from November to May and the rest of the years (June to October) are drier months, the best time to visit.

Zebra Herds in Ngorongoro Crater

Bird watching in Ngorongoro crater

There are lots of colorful pink flamingos and a variety of other water birds gather around the soda lake of Magadi to feed on the algae that grows on the lake. More than a 100 species of bird not found in the Serengeti have been found in the Crater and these include avocets, blacksmith plovers, malachite eagles, vultures, long hecked herons, white cattle  egrets, storks, sacred ibis, kori bustard and many others.

The best of the Ngorongoro Crater’s wildlife can be seen on a daylong game drive, which usually includes a stop for a picnic lunch, and may people stay here for just one or two nights.

Ngorongoro Crater Tanzania safaris

However, Ngorongoro is just the best known of a large number of volcanic mountains in the area and the landscape contains a stunning range of dormant volcanic peaks rising to over 10,000 ft above seal level – Ol Deani, Olmoti, Loolmalasin, and Empakaai.

For a more in depth safari Ngorongoro, visit the surrounding highlands there are some spectacular walks north towards Empakai Crater, Ol Donyo Lengai and Lake Natron as well as south towards Lake Eyasi or south west towards Ndutu. This gives an opportunity to explore areas that are visited by far fewer people.

Olduvai Gorge, also called the Cradle of Mankind is located nit far away from Ngorongoro crater and is protected under Ngorongoro Conservation area on the eastern Serengeti Plains stretching some 30miles. It lies in the rain shadow of the Ngorongoro highlands and is the driest part of the region. The volcanic ashes that spilled here several years ago preserved the first remains of Homo Hablis. It is one of the most important prehistoric sites in the world and research there has been instrumental in furthering understanding of

Ngorongoro Crater Lodge

early human evolution. Excavation work there was pioneered by Mary and Dr. Louis Leakey in the 1950s and is continued today by their family.

Ngorongoro safari lodges and accommodation

The safari lodges and campgrounds are built on the 2100m crater rim and most afford amazing views. You’ll find 3 luxury safari lodges and camps with magnificent views of the animal trails from the rim. Ngorongoro wildlife lodge offers exclusive luxury suites, fine out dining, restaurants, en-suite bathrooms, relaxing lounge in comfort and style. There are game drives arranged by Ngorongoro wildlife lodge both early in the morning and late in the afternoon. There is only one road in/out of the Crater so all safari vehicles descend via the same route.

Ngorongoro Serena lodge and Ngorongoro Sopa Lodge are the other luxury safari lodges with unparalleled safari lodge accommodation, spectacular views over the grass thatched chalets/ rooms.

Pemba Island forms part of the Zanzibar archipelago and is about 50 km long from the mainland coast of Tanzania. Pemba Island is the second largest island off the Tanzania Indian Ocean coast with excellent natural vegetation. Also know as ‘Al Jazeera Al Khadura‘-the green island regarded more fertile than its neighbor Zanzibar (Ugunja) although inscribed in long history of clove growing and political administration.

Pemba island towns

Chake Chake located on the western side of the island and is the capital commercial town of Pemba Island. It is few kilometers from the only airport on the island, Karume Airport,

Old Lighthouse on Pemba Island Zanzibar

and is well served with banks, post office, hospitals and other essential services. It is also located close to the oil depot and power generators at Wesha. On its outskirts, there is a clove stem oil distillery at Wawi, which is also engaged in the production of essential oils from lemon grass, eucalyptus, in addition to cloves.

Other important towns in Pemba Island Tanzania include Mkoani is the main sea port, Konde, Micheweni, Wete –the largest city and Mtambile.

Tours in Pemba Zanzibar

Pemba Island Tanzania has remained intact and untouched for a long time, natural beaches, fishing beaches, and plenty of water sports to do. Pemba is renowned for its fascinating, varied and stunning diving. Spectacular underwater sights, stunning blue-water drop-offs, awe-inspiring hard and soft coral gardens, magnificent scenery, sparkling clear blue sea – everything combines to ensure the diving holiday of a lifetime.

The mosque ruins from Mkumbuu Peninsula date several years back and are one of the most visited attractions. Take walking safaris to chake chake’s ruins at Pujini and Mkama Nduume’s old Swahili town. Boat rides to the neighboring small islands are as adventurous and exciting. Some of the smaller islets include Fundo, Funzi, Kiweni, Kojani, Kwata, Makoongwe, Matumbi and many others. Discover the beauty of hilly and forested slopes on these islands, mangrove forests and so much more.

Ngezi forest reserve cover 40% of the island and is hoe to island endemic bird species like the white eye, green pigeon, scoops owl and sunbirds. Some of the animals found here include vervet monkeys, red colobus monkeys, blue duiker, Pemba flying fox and so much more.

Big game fishing in the Pemba Island channel is as good all year round with record breaking fishes such as tiger fish, mako, tuna, wahoo, king fish, dorado, hammerhead, barracuddaand many other species. In peak Marlin season, the billfish and tunas move right up to the coast line making Pemba very interesting for fishing enthusiasts. The beaches along the islands are lined with several fishing boats set for the evening catch.

Pemba island Zanzibar diving

Diving in Pemba Island Zanzibar

Pemba Island Tanzania has more interesting, varied and spectacular diving than anywhere else in East Africa. There are a lot of excellent drop off diving along the big walls, gentle slopes, pristine beaches and some huge independent bommies teeming with reef fish. These deep walls are for the more experienced divers only. At the right times of year, you can encounter schools of pilot whales and awesome humpback whales. All of the recommended diving is found off the west coast and with the dive sites stretching from the northern to the southern tip.

In the north there are almost limitless dive sites stretching right around the northern tip towards the east coast. Most of the good dives are fast drifts, catching the tide as it sweeps in or out through the gaps between the islets and there are also some excellent underwater bommies where huge schools of pelagic species congregate. There is enough variety here to keep anyone happy with at least a week of good diving.

To give you a taste of what it is all about, here are just a few of the recommended dive sites
Deep Freeze at 90m named because it seems to catch a cold current from the depths on the  Southern side of Fundo Gap. Visibility varies from 15 metres to 70 metres. When the visibility is low, the site becomes a magnet for turtles and giant trevally, both Bluefin and Blackfin. When the visibility is high, you can see the bottom of Fundo gap at 90 metres – makes you feel very, very small.

Manta Point is another deep drop off with no mantas here. You’ll find schools of jack fish and surgeon fish that strike you as you swirl in the deep water. It is also a great spot for pelagic watching. Either side of Njao Gap encounter table-top coral at max depth of 50m, sea whips and gorgonian sea fans with giant groupers, Napoleon wrasse, titan trigger-fish and regular darting wahoo, jacks and giant trevally.

In the south, Mesali Island is a Marine Reserve and the coral jewel in the crown with shallow water reefs in pristine condition so snorkellers can indulge. Along the southern coast there is an almost continuous wall of soft coral, but be aware of the strong currents. Again, there is enough variety to keep anyone happy for 4 to 5 days of good diving. Recommended sites down this way include .

Pemba Island Zanzibar Beaches

Just off Mesali Island, this is a craggy Murray reef wall peppered with small caves, ridges and underwater peninsula at 60m deep. Large rivers of sand run off the top of the reef to form wide canyons that enter the wall at 25m. Gorgonian fans are in abundance below 20m. On a turning tide the marine life is exceptional and the currents quite strong. Huge giant grouper lazily drift through the reef and hundreds of surgeonfish cruise below divers, still visible at 40 to 50 metres.

Discovered on Christmas Day 1999 this reef is a very steep slope of pristine hard coral that descends from 12 to 35 metres where it too becomes a wall. Christmas reef is unique for its sheer density of coral and this site is a pleasure to drift along at any depth.

Visibility is excellent in these warm tropical waters & the average water temperature is 28’, and whilst the best months to dive are September through to April diving is good year round with exception of May.

Pemba Island hotels and accommodation

There are a few island beach resorts and Pemba Island hotels offering good overnight facilities like kite surfing, dhow and boat rides, relaxing honeymoon packages, and spectacular rooms with excellent views of the fine sand beaches. Some of these include  pemba crown hotel, Mamy hotel, verani Beach Hotel, Fundu Lagoon, The Manta Resort and other budget overnight accommodation from Pemba Kiweni lodge, Wete Sharook Annex, Mkoani Jondeni Guesthouse, Old Mission Lodge and Mkoani Zanzibar Ocean Panaroma Hotel