Slow safaris
Why Chem Chem is a conservation success story
Avian paradise
The best places to experience Tanzania's rich birdlife
Secret Swahili coast
Flights to Pangani open up remote region
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Your gateway to East Africa
We are Tanzania's Leading Domestic Safari Carrier
Tanzania has achieved remarkable success in tourism recently, surpassing its goal of welcoming five million tourists in 2025 by April of this year. Visitors are being attracted in unprecedented numbers to the country’s iconic landscapes, abundant wildlife, and diverse cultural experiences.
Many of these travellers are discovering Tanzania for the first time, while others are returning by the country to delve deeper into its wealth of attractions. Auric Air caters for both types. We fly passengers to the country’s headline attractions such as Serengeti, Mt Kilimanjaro and Zanzibar, but we also connect them to more remote destinations. Our network of destinations includes coastal hidden gem Pangani, the unique Lake Victoria attraction Rubondo National Park, or the off-the-beaten-path safari thrills of Ruaha National Park. No wonder we were named Tanzania’s Leading Domestic Safari Carrier at the 2025 World Travel Awards.
Auric Air's fleet is specifically designed to get intrepid travellers to the heart of these remote attractions in Tanzania and across East Africa. Our growing fleet of the Cessna Grand Caravan, De Havilland Canada Dash 8, and Pilatus PC-12 are chosen for their ability to operate on both paved and unpaved airstrips.
We continue to expand our fleet to accommodate the supercharged demand for tourism in Tanzania, particularly for access to remote national parks and island destinations. In May this year we added a second Pilatus to the fleet, enhancing our ability to provide premium regional and private air travel across East Africa.
We continue to bolster our capacity with plans in place to add two De Havilland Canada Dash 8-300s and have leased two DHC-8-100s on a short-term lease to cater to the demand.
We continue to connect more passengers to unique and adventurous destinations. Thank you for flying with us today.
Deepesh Gupta Director of Corporate Affairs
AURIC AIR TO DOUBLE ITS FLYING CAPACITY
Auric Air is significantly expanding its fleet to meet the increasing demand for safari tourism in Tanzania.
The company plans to more than double its capacity by adding two De Havilland Canada Dash 8-Q300s and leasing two DHC-8-100s. The additions will allow Auric Air to serve more passengers and more routes.
The Dash 8-Q300 is a versatile turboprop aircraft known for its short take-off and landing capabilities, making it ideal for Auric Air’s network of remote landing strips in some of Tanzania’s most celebrated wilderness locations.
Auric Air already operates a fleet of Cessna Grand Caravans which are also well-suited for short take-off and landing at bush airstrips.
WHY PANGANI SHOULD BE YOUR NEXT TRAVEL PICK
Auric Air is proud to connect travellers to Pangani, an emerging destination along Tanzania’s pristine Swahili Coast. With its quiet beaches, coral-rich waters, and cultural depth, Pangani is perfect for those seeking both relaxation and heritage.
We now offer two daily flights from Dar es Salaam, Zanzibar, and Tanga, with connections to our full safari and island network.
Let us connect you to a quieter corner of East Africa – reliably, safely, and seamlessly.
Here's our recommendations on what to do in this hidden coastal gem.
Unwind on Pangani’s secluded white sand beaches.
Snorkelling and diving – Pangani offers excellent snorkelling opportunities, particularly at Maziwe Island Marine Reserve.
Cultural and historical tours – visit old German colonial buildings‚ ancient mosques‚ and the Pangani slave route memorials.
River cruise – the Pangani river supports an array of wildlife from crocodiles and hippos to birds that include East African endemic the Pangani longclaw.
Eco-tourism and marine conservation – participate in sea turtle conservation projects and visit sustainable fishing communities.
The Auric Air chatbot is available to answer your questions 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Scan the code below or Whatsapp “Hello” to +255 783 233334 to get started.
Tanzania is a birdwatcher’s dream.
The country has, at last count, 1,156 species of bird, with 33 that can only be found here. We’ve highlighted a handful of the most spectacular endemic birds along with the Auric Air flights that will take you to them.
The best birding in Tanzania
HARTLAUB’S TURACO
In brief: This elegant bird, endemic to Uganda, Kenya and northern Tanzania, looks resplendent in flight when it reveals large crimson patches on the undersides of its wings.
Looks: Predominantly green plumage with dark blue wings, tail and crown. It has unusual markings on the head with a smudge of white between the eye and beak and a white arched line below the eye.
Listen out for: A gruff, accelerating series of “kow” calls.
Where to spot: Hartlaub’s turaco prefers high altitudes and is commonly found in montane forests and woodlands at 1,500 to 3,300 metres in elevation.
Auric Air destination: Arusha. Found in the national parks’ forested areas.
Hartlaub’s turaco
RED-AND-YELLOW BARBET
In brief: This kaleidoscopic bird with its brilliant black and white polka-dotted wings is one of Tanzania’s most attractive denizens with a call as pleasing as its looks.
Looks: Those eye-catching speckled wings, a bright yellow breast and red cheeks with a white spot on either side. Males have a black crown while the female’s is red.
Listen out for: While the colours are there in its plumage, the barbet’s name comes from its melodic call, which seems to repeat “red and yellow” over and over, often as a duet.
Where to spot: They favour areas of dry savannah in north-east Tanzania. A good place to look is around termite mounds, which barbets use to incubate their own eggs.
Auric Air destination: Lake Manyara National Park.
In brief: You’ll see plenty of this endemic species across Tanzania’s interior and they are worth getting a closer look at. Though their plumage is ostensibly ash-grey, it has a sheen that in certain lights can make this starling look like a metallic robot flying machine.
Looks: Uniformly ash-grey with some oily green sheen on wings and its long, narrow tail. Pale cream eye with dark inner ring. Black beak and legs.
Listen out for: Makes quiet mewing, rasping, and chattering calls.
Where to spot: Found in moderately moist savannah and woodland, usually in small flocks, often feeding on the ground.
Auric Air destination: The Ngorongoro Crater is home to a large population of ashy starling.
BLACK CRAKE
In brief: A small black waterbird that truly reveals itself when out of the water and revving up its spindly red-pink legs to scoot across reedbeds in search of vegetation and insects to feed on.
Looks: Reddish eyes, a yellowish bill and those unmistakeable, rose-coloured pins.
Listen out for: A distinctive and quite odd, wheezy bubbling and chattering.
Where to spot: Rivers and lakes across the country.
Auric Air destination: Serengeti. The park’s spring waters are a popular hangout.
ASHY STARLING
FISCHER’S LOVEBIRD
In brief: The name for these small, brightly coloured parrots is derived from German explorer Gustav Fisher and for the strong bonds formed between mating pairs. Lovebirds put in some serious PDAs – biting or nipping each other beaks in a manner that can look like they are kissing.
Looks: Females and males are identical in appearance with green backs, chest, and wings. The neck is golden yellow colour that deepens into a deeper orange-red on the face. The lovebird’s beak is red, and the top of the head is olive green. It may also have blue or purple-coloured plumage on the tail. The remainder of the body is a vibrant green.
Listen out for: Lovebirds are noisy with a singsong chirp that can get loud. If there ever was a karaoke night in the bird world, lovebirds would definitely be the first up on stage – for a duet, obviously.
Where to spot: Endemic to the grasslands, semi-arid woodlands and savannas of north central Tanzania. They like to be near water as they have a prodigious thirst and you can often spot them en masse sunning themselves after a cooling dip in a water hole.
Auric Air destination: Fischer’s lovebirds are native to north-central Tanzania and can be found in Tarangire National Park.
MRS MOREAU’S WARBLER
In brief: This warbler is a rare and rewarding find. They are by nature shy birds that can only be found skulking in montane forest. The species was first recorded by the ornithologist Reginald Moreau, who named the bird after his better half.
Looks: Mostly gray, darker on the back, with a rich rufous head and breast. Females are duller.
Listen out for: The male sings a well-spaced series of long, pure whistles, sometimes accompanied in a duet by the female, who gives lower whistles in simple patterns.
Where to spot: This endemic species is only found in the Uluguru Mountains in central Tanzania and has been classified as ‘vulnerable’ by the International Union for Conservation of Nature.
Auric Air destination: Morogoro. The town is the gateway to the Uluguru Mountains.
USAMBARA EAGLE OWL
In brief: If you’re up for some nocturnal bird watching, this rare owl will be a prize spot. It’s a large bird with powerful talons that are employed to whisk away its prey of small mammals such as rodents and even dwarf bushbabies.
Looks: Reddish-brown on the back and pale below, and marked with heavy striping throughout. The face is light brown with black borders and long ear tufts.
Listen out for: The owl has two calls: a hollow rising then falling whistle and a low, fast, pulsating series of hoots.
Where to spot: It is found in forest and plantations at low and middle elevations within the mountain range in north-east Tanzania. Spottings are becoming increasingly rare, however, and the species is classified as under threat.
Auric Air destination: Tanga. The city is a convenient starting point for exploring the Usambara Mountains.
A slow safari in Chem Chem
Auric Air flies into Chem Chem, a conservancy that forms a vital wildlife corridor between Tarangire and Lake Manyara national parks. The 40 sq km stretch of land is a conservation success story that now provides visitors with a unique and intimate safari experience. Here’s all you need to know.
Conservation success story
The Chem Chem conservancy was set up in 2007 to restore and protect 40 sq km of land between Tarangire and Lake Manyara national parks that had been severely degraded by illegal logging, poaching, and overgrazing. Now it has been transformed into a thriving ecosystem with the Kwakuchinja Corridor, a strip of savannah within the conservancy, once again being used as a corridor for elephants and other wildlife to move between the two national parks. Visitors staying in Chem Chem now get to see an abundant variety of animals and witness the work of the non-profit Chem Chem Association that along with its partners runs the conservancy.
The Big Five and more
The word ‘chem’ means ‘spring’ in Swahili. The doubled-up name for the conservancy was chosen because the land has many natural springs. With water comes wildlife. The dry season – from June to October – is a great time to see animals as they congregate around these reliable water sources. These months are the best time to witness the elephant migration, in which up to 3,000 elephants head to Tarangire National Park and pass through Chem Chem. Visitors will also have a good chance of
more Big Five sightings with lion, leopard, and buffalo to be found in the conservancy. Rhinos are rarer, but they can be found in the area. Other Chem Chem mammals include cheetah, giraffe, zebra, wildebeest, eland, kudu, and various antelope species. Of course, guests in Chem Chem also have the option to take game drives into the neighbouring Tarangire and Lake Manyara national parks.
Birdlife
Lake Burunge, a soda lake in Chem Chem, is known for its abundant birdlife, including thousands of
flamingos. The lake’s nutrient-rich waters also provide food sources for yellow-billed storks, herons, grebes, ibises, and kingfishers. The lake has been designated an Important Bird Area (IBA) as its bird populations are a significant part of the region’s biodiversity.
Slow safaris
With stricter rules on visitor numbers, conservancies offer a more exclusive and intimate safari experience compared to national parks. Not only do they not have the crowds of the national parks, conservancies also don’t have the rules. In Chem Chem walking safaris, guided bush walks and even off-road game drives are all on the menu. The Slow Safari approach emphasizes immersion in the environment through activities. For example, there are opportunities to enjoy sundowners looking out over Lake Burunge, to track giraffe on foot, to start the day with an outdoor sunrise yoga session or even scan the savannah at daybreak from a hot-air balloon.
Cultural visits
The Chem Chem Association takes a holistic approach to conservation that links tourism, wildlife protection, and community engagement.
Local Maasai settlements are actively involved in conservation efforts, participating in wildlife monitoring programmes, including tracking and data collection, and contribute to anti-poaching patrols. The Maasai have also been integrated into tourism operations, supporting local livelihoods and adding to the visitor experience. Guests can learn about the Maasai way of life by participate in cultural experiences such as beading, fire starting, and bow and arrow making.
Exclusive accommodation
Chem Chem’s three distinct accommodation options complement the conservancy’s focus on "Slow Safari" experiences and immersive connections with nature. Chem Chem Lodge features eight luxurious, tented suites, each at least 80 metres distance from another to ensure privacy and seclusion. The lodge also includes a central area with dining spaces, a lounge, library, and a spa, as well as a swimming pool and gym.
Little Chem Chem is even more intimate with just five tents set among a canopy of ancient
baobab trees. The tents feature en-suite bathrooms, dressing areas, and private fire pits.
Forest Chem Chem is an exclusive-use luxury tented camp ideal for a family safari. Guests enjoy a private guide and vehicle for game drives, as well as access to helicopter excursions, hot-air balloon rides, and other exclusive activities.
Safaris here are an immersive experience
Luxury in the wild is possible in Chem Chem
Photograph: Geoff Mayes
Photograph: STANISLAS FAUTRE
The secret COAST
Auric Air’s flights to Pangani open up access to less-explored destinations along Tanzania’s northern coastline. It’s a remote but rewarding region that includes port towns rich in Swahili history, and the only national park on the East African coast.
Pangani
Stone Town in Zanzibar may grab the spotlight when it comes to historic Swahili ports, but Pangani – also has a storied trading past going back centuries. It was once among the largest ports between Bagamoyo and Mombasa and sadly a major stop for slave-trading caravans from Lake Tanganyika and an export point for ivory. In the old part of town, near the Pangani River, merchant homes and colonial era buildings are crumbling architectural reminders of these times. Unlike in Stone Town, though, the ancient streets do not still pulse with crowds of tourists. Travellers that make it as far as Pangani discover a non-commercial seaside experience with the crowd-free serenity serving to bring the beauty of the white beaches, palm trees and crystalline ocean here into sharper focus. Wander the endless white sands, take a trip with a local fisherman on a ngalawa (a traditional wooden double-outrigged canoe) for a picnic on a sand bar or go snorkelling among the pristine coral reefs of the marine reserve that rings off-shore island Maziwe. It is also possible to take a motorised dhow across to Zanzibar Island.
Must-try experience: An hour’s drive north of Pangani are the Tongoni Ruins, the remains of a 15th century coral stone mosque and tombs that are the most extensive of their kind on the East African coast.
Saadani
National Park
Saadani National Park is where beach meets bush. East Africa's only coastal game reserve encompasses a 20km stretch of Indian Ocean coastline as well as 1,100 sq km of mangrove swamps, jungle, and savanna beyond the beach. Gazetted in 2005, the national park ensures these unique environments – from coral reef to
coastal forest – and the wildlife they support are protected. Game drives will reveal thriving populations of elephant, buffalo, and giraffe. The park is also home to lion, leopard and varieties of antelope.
Unlike many national parks, human communities live within its boundaries so there are plenty of opportunities for visitors to experience local life from the Maasai roaming the savannah to the fishing villages on the coast. The beaches here are a breeding site for endangered green turtles and elephants, lions and other wild animals have been known to wander the sands here. The coastline also provides the perfect spot for respite and relaxation after wildlife adventures inland with the park’s beachside lodge offering food and accommodation along with water sports options. Truly, a safari break like no other.
Must-try experience: The mangrove-lined Wami River is the lifeblood of the park. There are opportunities for unforgettable river safaris that reveal the largest population of crocodiles in Tanzania as well as a huge variety of marine and riverine birds.
Bagamoyo
There are more opportunities to step back in time and experience a beach break steeped in Swahili culture in Bagamoyo. The town was once one of the most important trading ports on the East African coast. As it is on Zanzibar island, the historic centre of Bagamoyo is known as Stone Town – or ‘Mji Mkongwe’ in Swahili – ¬ because of its ancient, still extant buildings that were constructed out of local coral rock, a local sedimentary stone made from compressed coral and shells. Among the centre’s tightly packed streets you’ll find once opulent homes featuring carved wooden doors that flaunted their former owners’ trading prestige and wealth. Striking buildings from Bagamoyo’s colonial past – it was the headquarters of German East Africa from 1886–1891 ¬– can also still be found, including Liku House, which served as the German administrative headquarters, the German customs house on the beach, and the Old Boma, which was renovated between 2010 and 2014 and now contains a museum detailing the town’s complex past. There is still a bustle about Bagamoyo today. The fish market, situated on the site of the old slave market, is a hive of activity during daily auctions of the fresh catch each afternoon. On the beach you’ll find dhow sailboat builders hard at work using skills passed down through generations.
Must-try experience: Bagamoyo is at the heart of cultural preservation in Tanzania. It was on the outskirts of the town that the Zawose family set up their musical commune playing and preserving the unique music of the Wagogo tribe from central
Culture on the coast: Bagamoyo is Tanzania's oldest Swahili coast settlement
“The park is a popular destination for snorkellers and divers to see its coral reefs, colourful fish, and sea turtles”
Tanzania. Generations of the family have found musical fame around the world, but many local performances take place at the Bagamoyo Arts and Cultural Institute, which was set up to pass on the artistic traditions of the country to a new generation of students through programmes in music, dance, drama and art. Attending a concert here is an unforgettable insight into the artistic soul of Tanzania.
Tanga
This northernmost port city in Tanzania was considered of strategic importance during colonial times and was initially considered as the capital of German East Africa. However, it was to become overshadowed by Dar es Salaam’s rise as the country’s commercial capital and largest port. In recent years, significant investments in infrastructure improvements have boosted Tanga port’s capacity
and it now serves as a primary entry point for goods destined for the northern regions of Tanzania, including Arusha, Kilimanjaro, and Manyara. Tourism is still underdeveloped but that means those that venture here have the region’s flawless white sand beaches almost to themselves. The coastline includes the Tanga Coelacanth Marine Park, a protected stretch of the Indian Ocean where some of the world’s rarest and most mysterious underwater life such as the seagrass-grazing dugong and the prehistoric coelacanth fish have been recorded. The park is a popular destination for snorkellers and divers to see its coral reefs, colourful fish, and sea turtles. Within the park, Tanga Bay is home to Toten Island, with its ruined mosques and German colonial buildings. Inland, you can explore the limestone Amboni Caves, which are filled with stalagmites and stalactites and of great spiritual significance to locals.
Must-try experience: The journey north does not have to end at Tanga. The town is the gateway to inland adventures in the Usambara Mountains. This biodiversity hotspot is a picturesque, lush landscape of forests and cliffs that is home to numerous endemic species like the Usambara eagleowl and African violet. Rivers that begin in these peaks supply water to Tanga.
Tea farms in the Usambara Mountains
Mafia
Island: where serenity meets adventure
Hundreds of whale sharks can’t be wrong: Mafia Island is the place to be! With Auric Air one of the few airlines that flies daily to the eco-conscious island, Explorer delves into the magic of Mafia.
in 2024, around three quarters of a million tourists visited Unguja, the largest island in the Zanzibar archipelago. By contrast, Mafia Island, part of its own Indian Ocean archipelago some 40 km further south, saw fewer than a thousand visitors last year.
Mafia Island’s exclusivity is tied to its focus on eco-tourism. The islands include Tanzania's first marine park (Mafia is administered from the mainland, not Zanzibar) and have been protected since 1995. Locals and visitors are encouraged to maintain a light footprint to contribute to the archipelago’s pristine ecosystem that supports massive marine life such as whale sharks and humpback whales while monkeys, bushbabies and hippos thrive on land.
Here's our guide to this unique and tranquil escape
What is it?
The Mafia archipelago is made up of nine islands. The largest, Mafia Island, is 50 km long by 15 km wide, and is surrounded by a protected marine park. The population is around 50,000 with most residents living in small villages along the coast.
How did it get its name?
Beautiful beaches
Mafia offers a host of footprintfree beaches with their white sand lapped by turquoise waters. Utende beach in the southeast is popular for diving and snorkelling while Bweni beach on the northwest coast offers a quieter escape. If you really want that Robinson Crusoe experience, take a boat trip out to one of the smaller islands or the sandbars that emerge at low tide.
Kilindoni
Arab dhows used Mafia Island as a trading stop from as early as the 8th century so many believe the island’s name originates from the Arabic word “morfiyeh” meaning “group” or “archipelago”. However, some prefer to think the name stems from the Swahili phrase “mahali pa afya,” meaning “a healthy dwelling place”. Despite the identical spelling, we can rule out any connection to the Italian Mafia. Here “swimming with the fishes” is not a threat, it just means you just out enjoying a snorkelling session.
Auric Air flies into Kilindoni, the capital of Mafia District. The harbour town on the north coast of Mafia Island gives visitors an intimate insight into Swahili life and culture. As with most African towns, the centre of activity is the market. Open daily, it’s a sensory
delight with stalls of fragrant spices and fresh fruit from local farms as well as plenty of freshly caught seafood. You’ll also find handcrafted goods such as woven baskets, traditional textiles, and beaded jewellery made by local artisans. Also crucial to everyday life in Kilindoni is its harbour. Dhows connect islanders to the mainland and are vital for the local economy, supporting Mafia’s fishermen, traders, and transporters.
World-class diving and snorkelling
The warm, clear waters and diverse marine life make Mafia Island a paradise for diving and snorkelling. The extensive coral reefs that encircle the islands of the archipelago are in a supremely healthy state thanks to the protection of the marine park. These reefs provide an abundant
“Locals and visitors are encouraged to maintain a light footprint to contribute to the archipelago’s pristine ecosystem that supports massive marine life such as whale sharks and humpback whales while monkeys, bushbabies and hippos thrive on land”
food supply for the more than 400 fish species found in the park. To observe this abundant underwater life, Mafia offers a range of dive sites, from shallow coral gardens perfect for beginners to deeper walls and channels for more experienced divers. Chole Bay on the eastern side of Mafia Island, protected by reefs and Juani Island, provides a year-round sheltered area for diving.
Whale sharks
Divers here also get the chance to share the sea with some underwater giants. Whale sharks – the biggest fish in the world with adult specimens reaching 12 metres in length – are attracted to Mafia Island primarily because of the abundance of plankton and small shrimp, which thrive in the nutrient-rich waters around the island. The Rufiji River delta, located near Mafia Island, delivers significant nutrients into the coastal waters, creating a productive feeding ground for these gentle giants. Mafia’s drifting buffet is so plentiful that hundreds of whale sharks – a species renowned for migrating thousands of kilometres in search of feeding grounds – have become residents here. Still the best time to see and swim with them is between October and March when the Rufiji’s outflow is strongest and brings a rich supply of plankton. From late August to early October another ocean giant heads to Mafia. During this period, humpback whales migrate through the waters south of the island and can often be spotted breaching and splashing near the coast.
Historic sites
Mafia Island has a rich history that dates back centuries. From the 8th century it served as a significant Swahili port facilitating trade between East Africa and East Asia. Remnants of its trading heyday can be found in the ruins at Kisimani, close to Kilindoni. The Kua Ruins on Juani Island – which include mosques, a cemetery, and a palace – are what’s left of a Swahili settlement that was once part of the Kilwa Sultanate, which exerted significant control over the island from the 11th to the 15th centuries.
Wildlife on land
Mafia Island, Tanzania, is a great place to witness sea turtle nesting and hatching, particularly between June and September. The island's Juani Island is a prime location for observing this natural spectacle, where hundreds of baby turtles make their way to the Indian Ocean. Other land-based animals include hippos, vervet monkeys, fruit bats, bushbabies, blue duiker, and genets. More than 120 bird species have also been recorded on the island.
Conservation
Mafia Island Marine Park is a critical area for conservation. The park authorities work tirelessly to protect the fragile marine ecosystem and promote sustainable tourism practices. A daily entrance fee is required to access the park – typically USD 23.60 per person per day – so tourists contribute to conservation efforts.
Federico neri / Shutterstock.com
Rostasedlacek /
Mafia Island is a place where nature and conservation blends
Whale Sharks
by numbers . . .
Swimming with whale sharks is one of the wildest adventures the Mafia archipelago offers in its underwater paradise. The rich coral reefs here are a food factory for these gentle giants. Let’s check out some facts and figures on the world’s largest fish.
3,000
The number of teeth an average whale shark has. If this makes you think twice about swimming next to one, be assured each tooth is tiny and only suitable for sifting plankton. They even have teeth on their eyes!
Whale sharks can live a long time. They have no predators, except man, but can be injured accidentally by large ships.
19,000kg
The weight of an average adult whale shark. The largest will weigh 20,000kg. That’s 20 tonnes. For all their size, they are surprisingly graceful in the water.
150 years
300
18.8 metres
The length of the largest recorded whale shark. That’s about the length of two dala dalas!
The number of babies a female whale shark can produce at one time. Females are ovoviviparous and produce eggs that hatch inside them. They give birth to live young and can produce around 300 babies at a time.
20kg
Whale sharks have prodigious appetites. Don’t worry, humans are not on the menu. Instead, these sharks are plankton patrollers, needing to filter-feed around 20kg of the drifting, microscopic organisms in a single day to survive!
20,142 Km
The longest tracked whale shark migration (from the eastern Pacific to the western Indo-Pacific). Whale sharks navigate by detecting the Earth’s magnetic field (a sort of sixth sense or in-built GPS) to find their way back to favourite feeding grounds. That’s how they keep returning to Zanzibar.
Start your safaris from
MWANZA
Lake Manyara National Park might be one of the smallest reserves in Tanzania, but it packs a lot in with its array of habitats offering refuge to plentiful animal and bird life. Explorer takes a closer look at this hidden gem.
Arusha is widely known as Tanzania’s safari gateway, but it is Mwanza on the southern shore of Lake Victoria that is the closest city to the Serengeti.
The world-renowned national park’s scenic Western Corridor is just two hours’ drive from the Tanzania’s second biggest city. In this rich ecosystem you’ll find the
Grumeti River, a hub for wildlife that from May to July is crossed by around 1.5 million wildebeest on their perilous journey north as part of the Great Migration.
The Western Corridor is less crowded than Serengeti’s Northern region. It offers a more secluded safari experience, yet is renowned for its high concentration of wildlife, especially predators such as
lions, leopards, and cheetahs. The diversity of landscapes here from open savanna, through floodplains to riverine forests supports a large population of resident wildlife for year-round viewing.
As well as having the Serengeti within easy reach, wildlife enthusiasts who base themselves in Mwanza can also take advantage of some of Tanzania’s
more under-the-radar safari experiences.
Mwanza stands on the southern shore of Lake Victoria. Such proximity to the second largest freshwater lake in the world gives visitors opportunities for activities such as fishing trips and sunset cruises. However, more intrepid travellers should know that the lake is home to Tanzania’s only
two island national parks: Saanane Island and Rubondo Island.
Saanane Island
Saanane is the easiest to reach. It is so close to the shore that it qualifies as Tanzania's first national park located within a city centre. Boat trips launch from the TANAPA offices at Capri Point and take around 10 minutes to reach the island.
In the 1960s Saanane was home to Tanzania’s first zoo, but now indigenous and introduced animals live wild across the 2.18 sq km island. Wildlife includes impala, zebra, wildebeest klipspringer, rock hyrax, vervet monkeys, dikdik, otters and crocodiles.
Walking trails traverse the island and allow visitors to explore among habitats of granite boulders, grassy areas, and woodland. There are look-out points with wonderful views of the lake and islands, as well as rest points, a camp site, picnic bandas, a canteen, and quiet secluded areas.
Serengeti, home to the iconic Great Migration, is within easy reach of Mwanza
“Rubondo Island is one of the best places in Africa to see the semi-aquatic sitatunga antelope. The only amphibious antelope in the world can be found in the island’s western wetlands.”
Rubondo Island
Rubondo Island is the largest island national park in Africa. Getting there from Mwanza involves a series of boat trips, although the island does have an airstrip if you want to fly in and money is not a concern. If you’re travelling on the lake, take the ferry from Mwanza to Sengerema and on to Mugaza, where you can get a boat to Rubondo.
Rare wildlife encounters on the island makes the journey worthwhile. Rubondo is one of the best places in Africa to see the
semi-aquatic sitatunga antelope. The only amphibious antelope in the world can be found in the island’s western wetlands. Another highlight is joining a guided trek to see the habituated chimpanzees in the untouched equatorial forest that makes up over three-quarters of the island. Larger mammals such as elephants and giraffes have also been introduced to the park while indigenous hippos, crocodiles, and otters are readily spotted along the shores. Rubondo is also home to more than 300 species of birds. If you don’t mind the wet weather, the
swamp-dwelling
best time for birdwatching is from November to April when migratory birds fly in and resident birds are showing off their colourful breeding plumage.
For longer stays, the island has a camp with eight lakeside cottages and a treehouse, each offering privacy and modern comforts like en-suite bathrooms.
For more details on our flights to Mwanza, visit flightlink.co.tz
The
sitatunga thrives on Rubondo Island
Walk the wild for a slow
Lucy Hills from Arusha-based tour company African Environments champions the immersive experience of exploring the Serengeti on foot.
There are few things in life as humbling – or as exhilarating – as walking through the Serengeti on foot. No engines. No crowds. Just the rustle of grass, the distant call of a hornbill, and the slow realisation that you’re no longer just observing the wilderness – you’re part of it.
African Environments offer a rare experience: private walking safaris deep within the untouched corners of the Serengeti. Whether it’s a family adventure or a group of friends looking for something extraordinary, you’ll have the landscape entirely to yourselves. No other vehicles. No other people. Just you, your expert guides, and the rhythm of the wild.
A
year-round invitation to explore
While the dry season from June to October brings crisp mornings, golden light, and wildlife clustering around permanent water sources, each season offers something uniquely beautiful. The green season (November to May) transforms the plains into a lush paradise – wildflowers bloom, skies shift dramatically with passing storms, and the bush teems with young animals. Migratory birds arrive in dazzling numbers, and the air feels freshly washed and alive. Even during the short rains, walking is both comfortable and magical, with cooler days, minimal dust, and a refreshing sense of renewal in the air.
Walk with purpose
A walking safari is not about checking boxes or rushing from sight to sight. It’s about presence. Accompanied by an armed park ranger and one of our highly experienced walking guides, you’ll learn to read the bush through sound, scent, and signs – paw prints in the sand, trampled grass, claw marks on bark. From quietly observing elephants at a distance to spotting the shimmer of a lizard sunning on a rock, each moment feels vivid and unscripted.
“The Serengeti awaits – and it's yours alone to discover”
Journey into Africa's wild heart on a walking safari
Wilderness all to yourself
Private mobile camps are set in remote, wild areas where you are the only guests for miles. Thoughtfully designed for comfort and minimal impact, these camps offer en-suite tents, hot bucket showers, and chef-prepared meals served under a canopy of stars.
Evenings are spent around the campfire with a chilled drink in hand, listening to the night come alive. There are no time limits here. No competing vehicles. Just space, stillness, and the freedom to move slowly and deeply through the landscape.
Conservation through connection
By walking instead of driving, and by operating in underutilized areas of the Serengeti, this minimises impact and helps distribute the benefits of tourism more sustainably. More than that, walking creates connection – to the land, to wildlife, and to something ancient and essential within ourselves.
After following the trail of a giraffe through tall grass, or hearing a lion call in the dark from your tent, the Serengeti stops being a postcard – and becomes something deeply personal.
Time to lace up
The Serengeti is one of the most celebrated wildernesses on the planet. But to truly feel its soul, you have to walk it – step by quiet step, far from the crowds, in the company of those you know and trust.
So, if you're ready to leave the road behind and journey into Africa’s wild heart, knowledgeable guides are ready to take you there.
African Environments has almost 40 years’ experience in crafting immersive Tanzanian adventures, including Kilimanjaro climbs, national park safaris and cultural visits. The company runs walking safaris in Serengeti, day hikes in the Shira Plateau area of Kilimanjaro and walks with the Maasai in the Ngorongoro Highlands. For more information contact walking@africanenvironments.com
Wild camps and walks reveal some of the park's most remote areas
Make time for
Island Misali
The protected coral reefs of nature reserve Misali Island offer some of the best diving and snorkelling in the Zanzibar archipelago. There’s plenty more attractions inland with rare wildlife, sacred caves and historic pirate hideouts. Just an hour’s boat ride from Pemba’s west coast, here’s why Misali Island is a day trip to die for.
Pristine diving conditions
The Misali Island Marine Conservation Area was set up in the 1990s to restore and protect the island’s rich marine and terrestrial diversity. The success of the 22-sq-km protected area – which is supported by the local community – along with the island’s remoteness has contributed to a pristine coral reef supporting diverse marine life.
Misali’s vibrant reef ecosystem also benefits from its unique position within the Pemba Channel, where deep oceanic currents meet shallower reefs. Today, it is home to over 350 species of fish, 40 types of coral, and even the occasional visit from dolphins, turtles, and whale sharks.
The island’s coral gardens begin just metres from the shore, making it ideal for snorkellers, who will love the calm waters and clear visibility. Flippers and masks are available for hire on Mbuyuni Beach, on the northeast of the island, where most visiting boats drop anchor. There are more dramatic drop-offs in the reef further out from shore to attract experienced divers.
Perhaps one of the best features of this underwater paradise is how few people know about it – for now. This makes for an exclusive snorkelling experience.
Even if the main beach is crowded, you can wander the island trails until you discover a secluded spot to swim.
Animals inland
The 1 sq km Misali Island is also a haven for wildlife inland with its lush forest home to Pemba vervet monkey (how they got to the island seems to be a bit of a mystery), Pemba white-eye (a, small, warbler-like bird with bright yellow feathers), and Pemba sunbird. There is also a population of gigantic coconut crabs – you won’t find an arthropod bigger – that burrow in the sandy soil in the island’s coastal thickets and climb palms trees to crack open coconut shells with their powerful claws. The island’s beaches are also important nesting sites for green turtles and hawksbill turtles. The nature trail that winds through the forest will lead you to the island’s western coast and Mpapaini beach, which is a turtle favourite.
Sustainable fishing
Misali Island is crucial to the fishing industry that Pemba depends on for food security and livelihoods for the local community. Misali is located in the Pemba Channel – a stretch of deep water between the island and mainland Tanzania that is a productive
Misali Island's forest is home to a population of vervet monkeys
fishing area – and many fishermen set up temporary camps here as a base for extended fishing trips. Wander the island and you’re sure to meet these friendly fishermen. While the waters around here are known for their abundant fish populations, fishermen have been taught to not drop their nets in the non-extraction zone of the conservation area. Most of the fishermen have embraced the conservation goals of the island and have embraced ecotourism as another revenue stream. They know the island very well so prove informative guides if visitors want a tour of Misali.
Eco-Islam
One of the most effective ways of bringing the local fishermen around to adopting more sustainable practices has proved to be through their faith. The vast majority of Pemba’s population, fishermen included, identify as Muslim. Misali Island has strong ties to Islam. Local legend tells of a saintly man called Prophet Hadhara who visited the island and, upon finding no prayer mat, declared the island itself to be one, as its northern beach faces Mecca. The name ‘Misali’ is derived from the Swahili word for prayer mat.
The fact that Misali is considered a sacred place by Muslims has translated to a strong sense of respect and protection for the natural environment. Islamic teachings being used to promote sustainable fishing practices.
Pirates’ paradise
You may want to do some beachcombing during your time on Misali. Legend has it that the notorious pirate Captain Kidd used the island as a hideout and that he buried treasure here. During the late 17th and early 18th centuries Misali was part of the ‘Pirate Round’, a sailing route used by buccaneers in the Indian Ocean. The island’s location and surrounding coral reefs made it a safe haven for pirates to store their booty.
Sacred caves
Adding to the mystique of the island are its inland caves that are believed by many Pembans to hold the spirits of ancestors. Bendera Cave – a short walk from the visitor centre on Mbuyuni Beach – is considered a sacred place where rituals are carried out by locals. The larger Mpapaini Caves, with their unique rock formations, on the west side of the island are also a popular attraction.
Mangroves
Mangrove forests in Misali’s sheltered coastal areas play a vital role in the island’s ecosystem, acting as fish nurseries, protecting coastlines from erosion, and providing habitats for birds and other wildlife. There is a mangrove replanting initiative led by local women’s groups on Misali.
Visitor fees
As Misali Island is a nature reserve within its own conservation area, there is an entry fee (US$ 10 for each visitor). Many boat tours include the fee within their price, but it is worth checking before you board. The fee is used to support conservation programmes on the island such as daily ranger patrols and enforcing bans on destructive fishing practices.
trips go from the beach at Mkoani near the ferry port. Wesha, in the Chaka Chaka district, is another popular launch point. Journeys from both locations take around an hour to reach
Gideon Ikigai / Shutterstock.com
(Top) Misali Island is a crucial base for local fishermen and (above) the island's mangrove forests
Boat
Misali Island.
The butterflies of Lake Manyara
John Woolmer visits Lake Manyara National Park in search of its 170 species of butterfly.
IIn April, I visited Lake Manyara National Park with my daughter and her family. They live in Arusha, from which Lake Manyara is just a two-hour drive on the way to the Serengeti.
We saw many wild animals, especially elephants, and many birds of which the most spectacular was a very friendly red and yellow barbet which patrolled one of the picnic sites. We also enjoyed seeing a group of pelicans swimming on the lake. For anyone wanting to see Tanzanian birds, the park provides a superb location. However, my heart was set on spotting some even smaller colourful creatures. Lake Manyara is home to 170 species of butterfly and my aim was to photograph as many of them as possible.
We managed some 27 during our stay. The most beautiful included two species of Mother of Pearl which were frequently seen in the more wooded areas. We photographed four of the charaxes species (Brutus, Kirki, Varanes and Zoolina). Zoolina has a blue coloured male, and the female is orange-brown. These are large butterflies, usually with double tails, which were often seen feeding on animal dung. This diet is thought to help the virility of the males.
Among the family of swallowtail butterflies to be found in the park, the Mocker Swallowtail
(Papilio dardanus) was dominant. The males are large white-tailed butterflies which often feed beside roadside puddles. The ‘mocker’ name comes from the fact that this harmless butterfly mimics the appearance of poisonous butterflies for its protection. The late British physician and lepidopterist Professor Sir Cyril Clarke has always claimed that the discovery of the supergenes involved in this butterfly mimicry led to his ideas on treating the human hereditary immune disease suffered by Rhesus-positive blood-group babies born to Rhesus-negative mothers.
Colotis danae(m) Scarlet tip
Salamis ancardii Clouded Mother of Pearl (above). Charaxes brutus White- barred Charaxes (right)
The white family of butterflies (Pieridae) well represented. The most spectacular were the beautiful blue vagrant (Nepheronia thalassina), the glorious coast purple tip (Colotis hetaera), and the very common scarlet tip (Colotis danae). We saw a second kind of ‘purple’ tip.
The African monarch (Danaus chrysippus) was also present. This large butterfly is protected by being poisonous to birds on account of its caterpillars feeding on the poisonous milkweed plants. The Diadem (hypolimnas misippus) females are a very good mimic of the Monarch and thereby gain protection. The males, obviously less valuable to the survival of the species, look completely different.
We observed the painted lady (Vanessa cardui), which is found throughout the world, as well as plenty of Acraeids which are usually slow flying and relatively easy to photograph. They often
pose with their wings stretched open in a way which becomes easy to recognise.
The skipper family are small butterflies which have a look and behaviour similar to moths. We were also pleased to see, among others, the two-pip policeman (Coeliades pisistrus), which gets its name from the distinctive markings on it wings that resemble the stars ‘pips’ on a British police officer’s shoulder.
We didn’t see very many of the Blue family. Alaena ferrulineata (one of the Zulu family). Luckily,
they are very docile so the few we did see sat conveniently on stems of grass waiting to be photographed.
We were able to walk with an armed ranger through various sections of the park. The edges of the forest areas were particularly good for seeing butterflies. Many common species, like the Soldier Commodore (Junonia terea) were present in good numbers. The early morning – from about 9am – is a particularly good viewing time. The lake, which is easily approached, provided sightings of many birds including storks,
Danaus chrysippus African Monarch (above)
Papilio dardanus(f) hippacoon Mocker swallowtail
“The ‘mocker’ name comes from the fact that this harmless butterfly mimics the appearance of poisonous butterflies for its protection”
egrets, ibis, herons and pelicans. It also has plenty of hippos and crocodiles.
Other attractions
Lake Manyara National Park has many other attractions: troops of baboons, various monkeys, warthogs, many species of deer, giraffe, buffalo, plenty of elephants and even tree-climbing lions, which, unfortunately, we didn’t see. The baboon troops were very large; the elephants casually crossed the roads and inspected any parked vehicles
Entering the park can take time, but once you are in, the place is a delight. There is a nice freedom in being able to explore the park’s diverse habitats. On the first day, we seemed to have the park almost to ourselves. Just also and the plentiful wildlife. Efforts to combat poaching and protect elephant habitats are beginning to yield positive results.
We would heartily recommend visiting the park and staying in the nearby well-equipped Migombani
Camp which has spacious tents, a lovely swimming pool, and a decent bar and restaurant. The steep path leading from the main road to the campsite houses proved to be an excellent area for butterfly spotting. The site gives you a fine view of the nearby lake and the park entrance on its doorstep.
Photographs were taken by Ben Ray, Zaki Ray (aged 11), and Jane and John Woolmer. Most were taken in the Lake Manyara National Park with a few – of butterflies that can be seen in the park – were taken elsewhere in Tanzania.
REASONS TO VISIT VOLCANOES NATIONAL PARK
Auric Air offers passengers the opportunity to combine safaris in Tanzania with more animal adventures in neighbouring Rwanda. Volcanoes National Park is best known for its populations of mountain gorillas, but there is far more to this jewel of northwest Rwanda. Here are just some of its must-see attractions.
1
IT’S THE PLACE FOR PRIMATES
Volcanoes National Park is one of just three locations in the world in which you can see the endangered mountain gorilla in its natural habitat. These gentle giants are, understandably, the wildlife headliners here, but the park is also home to golden monkeys and black and white colobus monkeys. The former is endemic here and gets its name from its bright golden-orange fur. Treks can be organised in the park to view golden monkeys with the largest group to be found in the bamboo forests of Mount Sabyinyo.
2
DIAN FOSSEY BURIAL SITE
If you are going to trek to see the gorillas, why not also take time to pay your respects to the pioneering primatologist widely credited with saving them from extinction by bringing their plight to global attention. Dian Fossey arrived in Volcanoes National Park in 1967 and spent 20 years studying and protecting the mountain gorilla. The Karisoke Research Centre Dian set up here at the time is now a living memorial to her conservation efforts as her life was tragically cut short in 1985. Her murder, though still unsolved, is widely believed to be connected to her lifelong crusade against poaching. Hikes to the centre and the Dian Fossey Tomb start from the foot of Mount Bisoke.
3
BUHANGA ECO-PARK
This ancient forest on the fringes of Volcanoes National Park once hosted the coronations of Rwandan kings. Walking trails wind through ancient tree cover to connect sacred sites such as stone thrones, caves that host spiritual rituals and natural springs used in ancient ceremonies. The site’s spiritual ambiance is compounded by tits tranquillity. Here it’s just you, 300-plus-year-old trees and birdsong. A local guide will show you around, explaining the importance of the trees, plants, and animals in the forest. You’ll also learn about how the park is being protected for the future.
4
MUSANZE CAVES
These ancient caves –thought to have been formed by volcanic activity 62 million years ago – became a refuge for locals during the Genocide Against the Tutsis. Today, guided tours reveal the labyrinthine network of lava tubes to visitors. The caves are situated in the foothills of the Volcanoes National Park so can be easily added to your trip itinerary.
5
BIRD LIFE
The park has a bird checklist of more than 290 species, including 17 that can only be found within East-Central Africa’s Albertine rift, one of the most biodiverse regions on the continent. These endemic species include the multi-coloured Rwenzori turaco, iridescent Rwenzori double-collared sunbird, and the orange-tailed Archer’s ground robin. The park’s bamboo, grassland, and montane forests, provide ideal nesting and foraging grounds for diverse bird life. Visiting birdwatchers will also have the park’s volcanic landscape as a breathtaking backdrop.
Mountain gorillas live in the forested slopes of the Virunga mountains in northwestern Rwanda
A hike through the lush landscape of the park
6
MOUNTAIN HIKING
The park encompasses the summits of five dormant volcanoes ¬in the Virunga range. At 4,507 metres, Mount Karisimbi is the highest. The peak is at its most picturesque when it is ringed by lens-like clouds, a natural phenomenon caused by strong winds interacting with the mountainous terrain. Finding snow at the top is rarer though it used to be feature and gave the mountain its name ¬– Karisimbi means ‘white shell’ in Kinyarwanda. Hiking to the top is a challenging, two-day adventure while the ascent and descent of neighbouring Mount Bisoke can be comfortably achieved in a day.
7 TWIN LAKES
Even in a region blessed with stunning scenery, the ‘twin lakes’ of Buhera and Ruhondo stand out. Its beauty comes from the way the lakes’ dark blue water is framed by the elevated forested terrain of the Virunga Mountains. It’s just a short drive from Musanze to reach the trails for a 20-minute hike to the lakes. Fishing is key to
local livelihoods and visitors can catch a ride on a hand-carved boat to help with the day’s catch or just bask in the beauty. Birdwatchers should note that the fish-filled lake is prime hunting ground for herons, kingfishers, cormorants, and cranes.
8
VILLAGE VISITS
Aside from fishing on the ‘twin lakes’, there are other ways for visitors to interact with local communities. Chief among them is the Iby'iwacu Cultural Village (Gorilla Guardians Village) which offers a unique opportunity to experience Rwandan culture,
traditional life, music, and dance. Since 2005, the Rwandan government has donated five per cent of the income collected from gorilla trekking (more than 20,000 people visit the park each year) to the local community. The money supports projects such as the village. Other immersive experiences include staying at a traditional Rwandan home or spending time with the indigenous Batwa people, who lost their ancestral home when Volcanoes National Park was set up, but are now being resettled. There is a homestead near the entrance to the park in which visitors can experience the Batwa’s traditional lifestyle and engage in activities like pottery making and cooking.
The picturesque peaks of the Virunga range
Your gateway to East Africa
Our fleet
With their short take-off and landing capabilities‚ the 20-strong Auric Air fleet opens up a world of possibilities for reaching destinations that are inaccessible to larger aircraft. Here’s a closer look at our built-for-adventure fleet.
Cessna Grand Caravan C208B EX
NUMBER OF AIRCRAFT IN FLEET: 14
MAXIMUM RANGE: 912 NM
MAXIMUM CRUISE SPEED: 185 KTAS
MAX OCCUPANTS: 10 TO 14
Cessna
Grand Caravan C208B
NUMBER OF AIRCRAFT IN FLEET: 4
MAXIMUM RANGE: 1,070 NM
MAXIMUM CRUISE SPEED: 186 KTAS
MAX OCCUPANTS: 13 WITH ONE PILOT OR 12 WITH TWO PILOTS
ONBOARD EXPERIENCE:
A fleet which is among the youngest of Caravan fleets in this region. This type of all-weather aircraft has been chosen to meet the specific requirements of operating into bush airstrips and more remote landing areas in East Africa.
De Havilland Canada Dash 8
NUMBER OF AIRCRAFT IN FLEET: 2
MAXIMUM RANGE: 1,148 NM
MAXIMUM CRUISE SPEED: 270 KNOTS
MAX OCCUPANTS: 39
ONBOARD EXPERIENCE:
Step aboard our Dash 8 aircraft and experience a new level of comfort. The spacious cabin design‚ plush seating‚ and ample legroom guarantee a relaxing and enjoyable flight. Whether you're embarking on a short-haul journey or exploring remote destinations‚ the Dash 8s quiet operation and smooth flying experience will exceed your expectations.
Pilatus PC-12
NUMBER OF AIRCRAFT IN FLEET: 2
MAXIMUM RANGE: 1,137 NM
MAXIMUM CRUISE SPEED: 280 KNOTS
MAX PASSENGERS: 9 (ONE PILOT), 8 (TWO PILOTS) SIX EXECUTIVE SEATS
ONBOARD EXPERIENCE:
The latest addition to the Auric Air fleet has a powerful PT67A-67P engine renowned for its performance, quiet running and high maximum cruise speed. It also burns up 65 per cent less fuel than comparable jets. Used primarily for private charters, its spacious interior includes executive seats featuring full recline and plenty of seated headroom. The PC-12 has gained a reputation for versatility, performance, reliability and operational flexibility.
Safety and maintenance
Our entire fleet is meticulously maintained by Hawk Aviation Ltd‚ a reputable organisation head-quartered at Wilson Airport, Nairobi. With approvals from the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority‚ the Tanzania Civil Aviation Authority‚ and the Uganda Civil Aviation Authority‚ Hawk Aviation ensures the highest
standards of safety and reliability. All Hawk Aviation engineers in charge of maintaining the aircraft are appropriately licensed having attended approved aircraft type-rating courses with considerable practical experience ensuring all aircraft are looked after by the best of personnel.
Our destinations
Our 15-strong network of destinations connects with some of the most remote and unforgettable attractions across Tanzania and beyond. Here’s where we fly.
Dar es Salaam
What began as a humble fishing village is now the biggest and busiest city in Tanzania. Dar es Salaam is where you can experience the fusion of the Swahili culture and modern life. The culturally diverse city has a vibrant community with thriving food, music and art scenes. Here you can get a hit of city life and a toes-in-the-sand slice of the beach all in one.
Entebbe
The Ugandan city on the shores of Lake Victoria is the gateway to a host of primate adventures such as mountain gorilla trekking in Bwindi National Park and boat rides to Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary, which protects orphaned chimps
Iringa
Time spent in this tranquil town in the southern highlands of Tanzania reveals a rich historical background – battles were fought here during German colonial times and the world wars – as well as insight into traditional African culture. It can also be the base for safari adventures with Ruaha National Park close by.
Kigali
More gorilla adventures can be pursued in Rwanda. The country’s capital, Rwanda, is one of Africa’s most progressive cities as well as being the launch pad for trips to Volcanoes National Park where wild gorillas live among the high forest of the Virunga Mountains – a dramatic backdrop for the trekking experience.
Lake Manyara
The beautiful, bijou Lake Manyara National Park is dominated by its titular soda lake that takes up almost two thirds of the park during the wet seasons and attracts vast flocks of flamingo, pelican and more than 130 more species of birds. It comprises a diverse range of habitats with herds of elephant, giraffe, baboons and impala roaming the grass and woodland while its forests contain all manner of monkeys as well as tree-climbing lions.
Pangani
Pangani is a hidden gem along Tanzania’s northern coastline‚ where the Indian Ocean meets centuries of Swahili heritage‚ pristine beaches‚ and relaxed coastal living. Once a bustling hub for trade in
the 19th century‚ Pangani offers visitors an authentic glimpse into Tanzania’s Swahili past‚ with its narrow streets‚ colonial-era architecture‚ and a friendly local community.
Mafia Island
The waters surrounding the Mafia archipelago are protected so its pristine reefs teem with marine life and offer some of the best diving experiences in East Africa. Giants of the sea such as whale sharks and humpback whales are also regulars here.
Masai Mara
This protected reserve in southern Kenya is one of the best places in the world to observe animals in the wild. Its sprawling plains are home to the Big Five‚ there are hippos and crocodiles in the rivers‚ and more than 500 species of birds. The reserve is particularly famous for its big cats—lions‚ leopards‚ and cheetahs. While the wildlife viewing at almost any time of the year is superb‚ the Masai Mara is best visited during the months of the Great Migration‚ when millions of zebra‚
Pangani
Rwanda
Mafia Island
wildebeest‚ and gazelle make their way north into the park from the Serengeti‚ crossing the Mara River in search of fresh grazing.
Nyerere National Park
Nyerere National Park is Tanzania’s newest and now largest national park, yet tucked away in the country’s southern wilderness it is something of a hidden gem. Its rivers and lakes are the lifeblood of the park that hosts some fabulous game‚ including elephants‚ wild dogs‚ buffalo‚ hippo‚ crocodiles‚ and fantastic prides of lions.
Pemba
Pemba is the second-largest island of the Zanzibar archipelago and provides
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a lush, lowkey alternative to its larger neighbour, Unguja.
Nicknamed ‘The Green Island’, Pemba is renowned for its fertile soil with its clove and vanilla plantations securing it global trading renown. Ringed with pristine beaches and reefs and with a forested interior that is home to endemic birds and mammals, Pemba is a haven for nature lovers.
Ruaha National Park
This massive national park is ideal if you want to escape the crowds. Here you can enjoy outstanding levels of wildlife – some of the country’s largest prides of lions and herds of elephants call Ruaha home – with almost no other vehicles around.
Rubondo Island
This island in the southwest corner of Lake Victoria has national park status with colobus monkeys, elephants, giraffes, hippos and crocodiles enjoying its sanctuary. As well as its animal adventures, the island is a true wild getaway with deserted beaches and virgin forest to explore.
Serengeti
With access to the hot-spots of the Great Migration and some of the largest concentrations of African wildlife –including more wild lions than anywhere else in the world, the Serengeti takes safaris to another level. The park welcomes almost a hundred thousand tourists every year.
Tanga
In colonial times, this port city in northern Tanzania headed East Africa’s trade links with the world. Now it has a more sleepy, laidback appeal, offering charming insights into the Swahili lifestyle. It also provides access to the East Usambara Mountains and the beaches of Pangani.
Zanzibar Island
Zanzibar’s main island, Unguja, has become one of Africa’s most popular tourist attractions. Resorts pepper its spectacular beaches while its historic centre, Stone Town, is a living museum of its trading heyday as well as vibrant proof of the cosmopolitan Swahili culture with its exciting food, music and arts scenes.
Serengeti
TANZANIA
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Lake Tanganyika Kipili Airstrip
Ma a Island
Serengeti National Park
Masai Mara
Rubondo
Lake Victoria
Lake Tanganyika
Kigali
Ruaha National Park
Pemba
Iringa
Tanga
Zanzibar
Lake Manyara National Park Nyerere National Park (Selous Game Reserve)
Salaam
Passenger information
Baggage
Baggage allowance for each passenger is 20kg (inclusive of hand baggage‚ cameras‚ filming equipment and any other personal item including loose clothing). Hard suitcases are allowed, but the dimension of individual items of luggage should not exceed dimension of 90cm in length, 65cm in width and 35cm in depth.
If passengers anticipate they will have excess baggage‚ excess baggage is bookable in advance in slabs of 10kgs. The excess baggage cost is between US$ 30 and US$ 60 depending on destination.
A maximum of four slabs (40kgs) additional luggage can be booked per person. For more than 40kgs‚ a freight seat at child fare is to be booked‚ which will permit a carriage of an extra 75kgs
There is a complimentary secure store at our Dar es Salaam airport office. Please enquire in advance.
Bookings
You can make payment online by credit card or mobile money at the time of making your booking. Alternatively‚ email reservations@auricair.com for other payment options such as credit card payment links or bank transfer options.
Children aged between two and 11 years (inclusive) are charged 75 per cent of the applicable adult fare. Infants under two years of age are not charged providing they are not occupying a seat. Infants are not entitled to baggage allowance.
Missed flights
No-show passengers will be required to book and pay for new tickets. If prior
Need help?
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notification is received by up to 24 hours before the flight‚ Auric Air can transfer your booking‚ at a cost of 50 per cent of your ticket basic cost‚ to the next available flight but has no responsibility whatsoever for any related extra costs. If seats are not available‚ no refunds will be made. You are advised to ensure that your travel insurance covers such situations. Details of any amendment or a cancellation must be sent by email to reservations@auricair.com
Check-in times
The latest Check-in time for all passengers is strictly 60 minutes before flight time. Auric Air reserves the right to depart up to 15 minutes ahead of the scheduled departure time if passengers are not present at the place of departure by that time. Auric Air has no responsibility for direct or indirect costs resulting from passengers missing a flight due to non-compliance‚ for whatever reason‚ with the above check-in times.
Auric Air operates from Terminal 1 at Julius Nyerere International Airport in Dar es Salaam.
Flying when pregnant
A woman with an uncomplicated pregnancy and clearance from their doctor can board flights up to the end of the 30th week of pregnancy. A doctor’s certificate or clinical card must be provided and Part 1 of our MEDI form must be completed by the passenger. They then have to be seated on the last single seat near to the emergency door.
