Sinda Island
Arusha’s vegan food scene
A deep dive into Dar es Salaam
Foreword
Dear travellers
It is with immense pride and excitement that we present this special June issue of our inflight magazine, Zebra Stripes. Its release coincides with a defining moment in Flightlink’s journey, and indeed, in Tanzania’s aviation history. .
This month we embark on groundbreaking direct flights from Arusha to Nairobi Wilson. The new route makes Flightlink the first operator to seamlessly connect these two iconic East African hubs. This achievement is not just a milestone for us but also a transformative step for Arusha Airport, which now takes its place as a key regional gateway.
Arusha, the safari capital of Tanzania, and Nairobi Wilson, the heart of Kenya’s tourism and business, are now linked like never before. This route opens unparalleled access to the world-renowned treasures of the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Masai Mara, and Amboseli – uniting East Africa’s most spectacular landscapes in one seamless flight network.
But that’s not all. In another bold stride we are introducing a direct, non-stop flight from Zanzibar to Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, a first for a Tanzanian airline. This route strengthens ties between Tanzania and Kenya, enhancing business,
tourism, and cultural exchange while offering our passengers unmatched convenience.
Supporting this expansion, we were thrilled to welcome our third ATR 72-500 in March. The new aircraft will further boost our capacity and reliability as we grow our network. These developments reflect our unwavering commitment to connecting East Africa efficiently, safely, and with the warmth of Tanzanian hospitality.
As we soar to new heights, we extend our deepest gratitude to our passengers, partners, and regulators for their trust and support. Together, we are not just flying routes, we are bridging nations, fostering prosperity, and making travel in East Africa smoother than ever.
Welcome aboard and enjoy this issue as we celebrate a new chapter in Flightlink’s journey and yours.
‘Karibu sana kwenye safari zetu mpya.’
Munawer Dhirani Managing Director and Accountable Manager
TO THE SERENGETI
Start your wildlife adventure from Mwanza 17
Travel
Joining
Must-see
3rd floor‚ Oyster Pearl Galleria‚ Chole Rd Masaki‚ PO Box 2858, Dar es Salaam‚ Tanzania.
For the latest flights, information and to book online, visit: www.flightlink.co.tz
Reservations: centralreservations@flightlink.co.tz
E: customerservice@flightlink.co.tz
Marketing: Shabbir Ebrahim
T: +255 748 505 624
M: +255 769 981 899
E: s.ebrahim@flightlink.co.tz
Zebra Stripes is published by:
Land & Marine Publications (Tanzania) Ltd
5th floor, Josam House plot Number 16, Mikocheni Area
Along Coca-Cola Road, Dar es Salaam
T: +255 686 118 816
Head Office: Land & Marine Publications Ltd
6 The Square, Ipswich, Suffolk, IP5 3SL, UK
T: +44 (0)1206 752902
E: publishing@landmarine.com www.landmarine.com
Editor: Mark Edwards
E: markedwards@landmarine.com
Advertising sales: Godfrey S. Urassa
M: +255 (0) 686 118 816 (WhatsApp)
E: godfreyurassa@landmarine.com
Printed by Jamana Printers Ltd, Dar es Salaam
The
What’s new at Flightlink
The latest updates, including new routes, partnerships, and enhancements to the flying experience.
A new arrival
We proudly welcomed our brand-new ATR 72-500 aircraft on March 14, 2025, marking a significant milestone in our fleet expansion. This addition enhances both capacity and comfort on our busiest routes.
Customer-first
To improve your experience, we’ve enhanced our customer service through the formation of a dedicated Central Reservations and Customer Service Department and implemented stricter on-time performance measures across our network.
Expanding our horizons
Starting July 1, Flightlink will launch scheduled services to Mwanza, Kilimanjaro, and Nairobi Jomo Kenyatta International Airport. For our business and leisure travellers heading to central Nairobi, flights to Wilson Airport begin even earlier – on June 15.
Giving back
In partnership with registered charity Bilal Muslim Mission Tanzania, Flightlink proudly flew doctors and volunteers for a recent eye camp in which over 5,000 individuals were screened. This is a mission close to our hearts.
Follow the thrills of a safari with the chills of a beach break
The Flightlink network makes it easy to combine wildlife adventures in the Serengeti or Masai Mara with beach breaks on the Indian Ocean coast. Here’s why sand and safari holidays are the perfect combination.
Good news for those struggling to choose between an intrepid adventure in the African wilderness and a sun-soaked beach retreat. You don’t have to! With Flightlink you can do both in one trip and it’s far easier than you think.
The Flightlink network makes it easy to combine wildlife adventures in the Serengeti or Masai Mara with beach breaks on the Indian Ocean We fly to four airstrips within the immense Serengeti National Park. Here you’ll find the ‘Big Five’ and be able to track the iconic Great Migration. We also connect our passengers to Lake Manyara National Park – home to tree-climbing lions and over 400 species of birds – and Ngorongoro with its unparalleled density of wildlife within its crater walls. Beyond Tanzania, we fly to Nairobi Wilson Airport. From here passengers can get a transfer by road to the Masai Mara where the Great Migration reaches its most spectacular stage with more than 1.5 million wildebeest crossing the Mara River each year.
There’s no better way to wind down after the wildlife spotting than with a dose of vitamin sea. Flightlink operates daily flights between Serengeti and coastal destinations Zanzibar and Dar es Salaam. Zanzibar is world-renowned for its powder-white beaches flanked by coral reefs teeming with colourful marine life. Dar might be the country’s bustling commercial capital, but the pristine
beaches of off-shore islands Mbudya and Bongoyo are just a short boat ride away and the city is also home to lively local favourite Coco Beach.
Flightlink also gives you the option of more beach escapes with flights to the ‘green island’ of Pemba in the Zanzibar archipelago and Kenyan coastal gem Mombasa.
Wind down after your wildlife safari with a beach break
Here are a few reasons why bush and beach holidays fuse luxury, adventure and relaxation all in one unforgettable escape.
See two different worlds in one trip…
The thrill of a safari lies in experiencing the raw, untamed beauty of the natural world. It can be beautiful, awe-inspiring, and scary – often all at once. To make the most of your wildlife trip you need an intrepid mindset to embrace the unpredictable and exciting nature of a safari.
After the thrills of a safari, you’ll appreciate the chills of a beach break. Soothe your soul with careless hours of sunbathing and cooling swims. The relaxing end to your break will ensure you don’t need another holiday after your activity-filled holiday.
After the thrills of a safari, you’ll appreciate the chills of a beach break. Soothe your soul with careless hours of sunbathing and cooling swims."
A huge variety of experiences…
You can fill your bush and beach trip with an array of memorable activities. Here’s just a sample. A sunrise hot-air ballon ride over the Serengeti; a picnic on a deserted sand island; a walking safari; a beachside massage; wild camping under the stars; snorkelling over coral reefs; canoe trips through mangrove forests; a bike safari; stand-up paddle boarding; a visit to a Maasai manyatta; and night game drives. How does that sound?
Seamless travel…
With Flightlink’s direct flights between destinations there’s no need to add in additional travel days to your stay. Just a quick, hassle-free flight and you are on to the next stage of your holiday adventure.
Ideal for families…
Bush and beach combos are popular with the whole family. Serengeti and other national parks offer numerous family-friendly safari options from luxury lodges to tented camps while many of the country’s beach resorts run kids’ clubs operated by trained staff. The sense of adventure and wealth of activities on offer will keep everyone entertained.
For more information in scheduling a beach and bush adventure with Flightlink, visit flightlink.co.tz
The guides, chefs and porters of Kilimanjaro’s only all-women owned and guided tour agency are climbing mountains and changing lives. Mark Edwards reports.
THE WANDERWOMEN OF KILIMANJARO
Co-founders:
Eliakeney ‘Ekeney’ Njau was one of the first women mountain guides on Mount Kilimanjaro. She has now climbed Africa’s highest peak more than 100 times, using that experience to lead visitors from around the world to achieve the bucket-list feat.
Repeatedly conquering the 5,895-metre dormant volcano has not been Ekeney’s only challenge. Mountain climbing in Tanzania is a competitive and male-dominated profession. From her beginnings as a porter
aged 19 to establishing herself as a guide, Ekeney has had to deal with prejudice within the local community.
“She has faced discouragement, humiliation and even sexual harassment,” says Julia Mantey, a German climber who first met Ekeney, now aged 32, when they took on Mt Kilimanjaro together in 2021. Julia had requested a female guide and credits Ekeney’s “warm support and incredible positive attitude” in getting her to the top. The pair bonded on the climb and
struck up a plan for a female-focused tour agency. In December 2022 Kilimanjaro Wanderwomen Tours – the only all-women owned and guided tour agency in the region – was born.
The agency now has a growing team of porters, cooks and guides. These women, like Ekeney, come from local Chagga communities in the foothills of Mount Kilimanjaro. The Wanderwomen set-up has brought each team member a source of income and independence. It is also
(Above) Julia Mantey and (top)
Ekeney Njau
Climbers are impressed by how physically and mentally strong our porters and guides are – how they always have a smile on their faces even when conditions are hard.”
empowering for visiting female climbers from all over the world who share in the sisterhood on their Kilimanjaro journey.
The agency ensures its team members are paid above the going rate and are supported during their climbs with quality, tested equipment and three nutritious meals a day. Still, it is a demanding job. The Chagga women may live in villages located at altitudes between 800 and 1,800 metres and work hard in their farms and homes, but that does not guarantee
they can cope with the reduced oxygen levels of Kilimanjaro’s higher zones. Ekeney, as head mountain guide, trains new recruits in building endurance and agility at altitude. They are also taught to recognise the signs of mountain sickness (the team carries first-aid kits and oxygen bottles on every tourist climb).
These acclimatisation strategies prime the Wanderwomen team to not only regularly scale Mount Kilimanjaro on foot, but also handle the cycling tours to the summit the agency also offers. These six-day bike rides are a serious challenge. Many clients have had to rely on the porters’ reserves of energy to push or carry their bikes to the summit on the final rocky climb from base camp.
Porters also have to cope with the rarified air while carrying supplies. The Wanderwomen team limit the maximum weight its porters can carry to 18kg, rather than the industry standard 20kg. Julia says: “It may not seem like a big difference, but if you ever tried to carry 20kg on your head or shoulders up a mountain for several days in a row, you will be happy for each gram you don’t have to carry.”
The women’s work does not end when they come back down from the mountain. Often there is a pile of laundry and other unattended chores to greet them at their homes in the village. Gender roles are strictly demarcated within Chagga society and tasks such as getting water, farming, cooking, and laundry are traditionally seen as women’s work. Julia
Conquering Kilimanjaro with an all-women team can make the sense of achievement even sweeter. Many clients feel emotionally connected to our team.”
says these entrenched beliefs are slowly easing and that there are Chagga men who support their wives, daughters and sisters in leading their own lives. However, most of the Wanderwomen are single mothers who have to juggle many responsibilities away from the climbing.
It seems like a hard life, but there is a camaraderie within the team that overrides the adversity. “The Wanderwomen live a vivid sisterhood,” Julia
says. “They encourage each other when work on the mountain or life in general feels too hard. Many are friends or even come from same families. They keep in touch between tours and help each other in everyday life. Sometimes they share their income to support each other in times of need.”
Tourists who climb with the Wanderwomen get to share in this sisterhood. Many female climbers want to take on Mount Kilimanjaro led by an all-women support team and Julia says Kilimanjaro Wanderwomen Tours is working with travel agencies that specialise in women’s group travels.
“We create a ‘safe space’ for our female clients,” Julia says. “Some women may feel unsettled [climbing with men] for personal
or cultural reasons. With us they are able to ‘let their hair down'. We also make female clients feel comfortable and facilitate their Kilimanjaro climb. The team consists of women who know about specific female challenges such as hygiene on the mountain, having periods, or where to go for a wee when there is no tree or rock to hide behind.”
Conquering Kilimanjaro with an all-women team can make the
sense of achievement even sweeter. “Many clients feel emotionally connected to our team,” Julia says. “They are impressed by how physically and mentally strong our porters and guides are – how they always have a smile on their faces even when conditions are hard. An all-female team is special. On the mountain clients will barely see any other female porters working for other companies.”
Wanderwomen Tours run bike trips to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro
There are opportunities to strengthen those ties between clients and crew after the climb. Kilimanjaro Wanderwoman Tours offers day trips to the Chagga village of Machame. This is where Ekeney lives and her family and friends are part of the welcome party for guests. Julia says there are plans in place to offer guests overnight stays in the village. A building on land owned by Ekeney’s family is to be turned into a guest house. “In this way we can even create jobs for those, who cannot work on the mountain,” Julia says.
Ekeney and her team are challenging and changing societal norms and gender stereotypes in the region. They are proving that women can do the same jobs as the men on the mountain and, as Julia adds, they do it with “endurance, willpower, joy and pride”.
To find out more about the team behind Kilimanjaro Wanderwoman Tours and to book your own mountain adventure, visit www. kilimanjarowanderwomen.com
Kilimanjaro
NEW FILMS TO PREMIERE AT THIS YEAR’S
FILM FEST ZANZIBAR
From a Tanzanian rom-com to a documentary about a Kenyan widow battling to reclaim her land, here’s just some of the fresh releases to look out for at this year’s Zanzibar International Film Festival.
The Zanzibar International Film Festival (ZIFF), now in its 28th year, has become one of the largest cultural events in East Africa. This year’s event runs from June 25-29 with 70 films from around the world being screened.
The central hub for activities is the Old Fort in Stone Town. The historic venue hosts the main screenings along with film markets and workshops, but events also extend across the islands of Unguja and Pemba with more screenings, music performances and even a dhow race.
As a taster of the cinematic treasures in store we have selected five films we think will rock this year’s ZIFF.
Janani ‘The Last Stand’
DIRECTOR: Matt Bish
While ZIFF attracts filmmakers and screen stars from far and wide, the inclusive event seeks to involve locals young and old. With no permanent cinemas on the archipelago, the festival is the only chance for many Zanzibaris to experience the magic of the big screen. Local schoolchildren are given free access to the Stone Town screenings and pop-up cinemas are set up in remote regions of the island for more free film-watching.
There is a buzz across the islands during the five-day festival and visiting world cinema enthusiasts are sure to enjoy a memorable experience for world cinema enthusiasts.
ZIFF is also known as the Festival of the Dhow Countries as it celebrates the diverse cultural connections formed by the Swahili coast’s historic Indian Ocean trade links with the Middle East, India, and Southeast Asia. For centuries, dhows – handmade wooden sailing ships harnessing the seasonal monsoon winds – facilitated the
transport of goods, people, and ideas across the region. ZIFF showcases submitted films from these countries as well as across Africa and the global diaspora.
This year 70 films and TV programmes are in competition, narrowed down from more than 3,000 submissions. Each successful entrant represents in its own way the theme of this year’s festival, which is ‘Where Hope Takes Root’.
Festival director Hatibu Madudu is very excited about this year’s event. “Our films this year reflect a new focus the festival. We want to screen new and fresh films that have their premiere in Zanzibar.
“This year’s theme ‘Where Hope Takes Root’ encapsulates the essence of Zanzibar, ZIFF and Africa, emphasising our shared commitment nurturing creativity and innovation across the continent.
“We look forward to see all of you in Zanzibar.”
This inspiring Ugandan film immortalises the courageous stand of Archbishop Janani Luwum against the oppressive regime of dictator Idi Amin. Luwum was the archbishop of the Church of Uganda from 1974 to 1977 and one of the most influential leaders of the modern church in Africa. He stood for justice and freedom for the people despite knowing it would cost him his life. His legacy lives on as a symbol of resistance and moral integrity –there is a public holiday in his honour each year in Uganda – and this film is a fitting testament to this modern martyr.
The Christmas Run
DIRECTOR: Enos Olik
This Tanzanian festive romantic comedy got a cinematic release across East Africa late last year while also being picked up by Netflix. It marks another success for Tanzanian production company Black Unicorn – the team behind 2021’s Dar-set drama ‘Binti’. The Christmas Run channels the new dating trend of running clubs with lead character Nuru joining one to get over a bad break-up. Her first meeting with fellow reluctant runner Alex is frosty, but when the pair team up for a charity Christmas marathon a bond begins to bloom.
Ranga Shoor
DIRECTOR: Pratap Rout
The ‘Bagha Nacha’ or ‘Tiger Dance’ is a traditional folk dance performed in Odisha in eastern India. The dancers dress in tiger costumes and are primarily male. However, this colourful, magical story of courage and resistance focuses on Chitra, a 20-year-old woman from Olab village, in Odisha, who is the only child of a Baga Nacha dancer and carries on the family tradition. Her dancing is frowned upon by some of the village elders who consider it disrespectful of tradition, but there are wider problems for the community with outside threats to their forest home. A must-see.
A Duty to Remember
DIRECTOR:
Charles Domingue
Canadian singer Patrick Norman didn’t know it at the time, but in 1994, at the height of the Genocide Against the Tutsi, his song ‘Quand on est en amour’ captured the hearts of the Rwandan people. The song – Norman also released an English version which he called ‘Only Love Sets You Free’ – conveys the importance of being open to love even in difficult times. The song’s lyrics crossed borders and served as a balm for Tutsi victims during the worst moments of their lives. Thirty years later, accompanied by Canadian filmmaker Domingue, Norman visited Rwanda to meet locals who still remember how his song was an emblem of hope in dark times. An unforgettable film about the healing power of song.
DIRECTOR: Mustapha Machupa
The television drama series exposes the rivalries and relationships within a wealthy Dar es Salaam family. Everyone seems to be hiding secrets from the bitter matriarch through the son who returns from studies abroad with a woman he intends to marry prospective to the stressed-out housemaids. A complex drama with plenty of twists and turns.
Jivu
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
Sunset at Lake
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."
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.
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 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
Rubondo resident: the sitatunga antelope
‘
With
Nairobi isn’t just a place, it’s a presence’
the launch of our flights to Nairobi we thought we’d get the inside story on the vibrant Kenyan capital from someone who knows it well. Adam Maina is a purpose-driven travel influencer and lifestyle creator who’s redefining African luxury travel and lifestyle content. He speaks to Zebra Stripes about what makes his hometown so special.
Q: Which part of Nairobi do you live in? Why did you choose there?
I live in the lush, leafy suburb of Rosslyn. It’s where Nairobi exhales. Think birdsong in the morning, winding roads, and just enough privacy to dream loud. It gives me space to create and recharge.
Q: Where is your favourite place to start the day in Nairobi?
Java House. Always Java. There’s something beautifully Kenyan about walking into a branch of this local coffee chain. It is like a daily reset with the city’s heartbeat. Their coffee? Deep, rich, and familiar. And don’t get me started on that croissant with extra butter. It’s not just breakfast, it’s therapy.
Q: As a travel influencer, what are some of the Nairobi attractions you have recently recommended to your followers?
So, everyone knows Nairobi National Park is the go-to answer, but the twist now? Night game drives. Some city hotels are offering them, and it is pure magic. Imagine lions under moonlight with the skyline behind you. Also, Ngong Hills in the evening is the ultimate mix of breeze, views, and that dramatic sky that makes you believe again.
Q: Which shops do you rely on in the city?
I live on Greenspoon. Kenya’s online gem. Their fresh juices are elite, their delivery smooth, and the quality? Chef’s kiss.
For fashion, I go bold with Kitu Kali because Kenyan creativity deserves the runway. Sarit Centre is my everything mall. Grocery run, spa moment, quick sushi fix. It’s a city within the city.
Q: Who is your Nairobi icon?
Larry Madowo [Kenyan reporter, broadcaster, writer and news anchor] No question. He’s brave, grounded, and refreshingly bold. He embodies the modern Kenyan. Sharp, global, and unapologetically local. Larry isn’t just reporting the story, he
Java House coffee
Antony
Trivet photography / Shutterstock.com
Nairobians are a cocktail of hustle, humour, and style. We know how to laugh through chaos."
is the story of where Kenya is heading.
Q: How would you spend the perfect lazy Sunday in the city?
Start with a chill breakfast at Paparotti. Those brunches are sinful in the best way. Then take a scenic drive to Brackenhurst in Tigoni. That place slows time. I’d do a peaceful walk, queue up my favourite playlist, and end the day with some good comfort food like their woodfired pizza.
The Museum of Illusions
Q: How would you describe the character of a typical Nairobi resident?
Nairobians are a cocktail of hustle, humour, and style. We know how to laugh through chaos, dress like we own stock in Zara, and still haggle for parking change. Nairobians survive, thrive, and shine, sometimes all in one Uber ride.
Q: What do you miss most about the city when you are away?
Kenyans always say: “Why
would you even move from Kenya?” And it hits different when you’re far from Nairobi. This city emancipates joy, chaos, and creativity in equal measure. I miss the accents, the roadside drama, the music on every corner. Nairobi isn’t just a place, it’s a presence.
Q: When you are hungry, what is your favourite local delicacy to sample?
Nyama choma, No forks, no pretence. And if you bring me proper Kikuyu mukimo [traditional Kenyan side dish of mashed potatoes and green vegetables] soft and green with some charred meat on the side, we’re officially friends. That combo? It’s comfort, heritage, and home on one plate.
Q: Where is your favourite place to escape into nature in the city?
Not quite in the city, but my escape is the Nairobi to Naivasha Viewpoint. You see
the Rift Valley stretch before you, Mt Longonot peeking through the clouds, and Lake Naivasha shimmering in the distance. Add a few coffee stops, a roadside chat or two, and you’ve got peace served scenic.
Q: Can you offer any advice on how to successfully use the city’s matatu mini-bus network?
Matatus are Nairobi’s version of a party bus meets rollercoaster. I love their vibe, just don’t expect silence. Pro tip: Always ask the conductor where it’s going, sit close to the exit if you’re not sure of your stage, and don’t be shy. Nairobians will help you if you look lost.
Q: Where would you recommend visiting to see the real Nairobi?
Right now, the art scene in Ngara. It’s turning Nairobi into a Bokaap-style explosion of colour and creativity. You still feel the
heartbeat of the city in Kibera and the everyday hustle of Eastleigh, but Ngara is where the new Nairobi is painting itself bold.
Q: What is your favourite building in the city?
The Global Trader Center (GTC).
The Global Trade Center
View of the Great Rift Valley Escarpment between Lake Naivasha and Nairobi
It’s not just a building, it’s Nairobi’s vision board. Sleek, sky-high, and proudly urban. The ‘I Love NBO’ inscription on the side is the city’s heli-selfie spot. Every New Year’s fireworks display from there feels like a promise. And the way it stands
The Global Trader Center is not just a building, it’s Nairobi’s vision board. Sleek, sky-high, and proudly urban."
right next to the Expressway, it’s literally watching Nairobi race into the future.
Q: Where do you go to find joy in the city? Westlands, hands down. There’s always something
new. A rooftop bar, a themed restaurant, or a hotel with a secret garden. It’s where Nairobi unwinds.
Q: Nairobi has a thriving underground arts scene. Where are some of the best places to view art for emerging local artists? Beyond the classics like Kuona Trust and Circle Art, I’m loving the Museum of Illusions. It’s playful, quirky, and perfect for creatives. Glass studio Kitengela Glass is also a must.
Q: If you are up for a late night, where do you go in Nairobi to party?
Let’s talk about the Kiambu Road stretch to Northern Bypass. Habanos is the current hot spot. Music, crowd, and vibe are unmatched. Bla Bla Nairobi is for when you want premium vibes with zero guesswork. And of course, K1 is eternal. It’s like Nairobi’s cool cousin that never ages.
• To keep up with Adam's adventures and travel recommendations, visit his Instagram page @ adammaina
Glass studio
Kitengala
Take a RUNCATION in Nairobi
Get fit, make new friends and see Nairobi from a different perspective by joining a group run in the Kenyan capital.
Run clubs are on the rise in the city. Kenya's vibrant capital is renowned for its bustle and busy roads, but these clubs stick to routes that chart Nairobi’s urban green spaces and leafier, quieter suburbs.
The result is a unique perspective on Nairobi. Not only will you see another side of the city, but you will also get a chance to meet like-minded locals. If you are on holiday here and want to get your fitness fix while exploring the city in a way that is safe and fun, running clubs are the way to go.
One of the capital’s most popular clubs is We Run Nairobi (WRN), which organises three morning runs each week suitable for all fitness levels. No fees or prior registration is required, just show up and run!
Zebra Stripes speaks to WRN founder Emily Chepkor about the power of running to bring people together and how the club is preparing for the Nairobi Marathon in July.
Q: Hi Emily. What does running mean to you?
A: Running has been a steady companion throughout my life. It has brought me so much clarity, resilience, and a deep sense of joy. It’s where I go to reset and connect with myself. I’ve completed ten marathons so far, including Boston, Berlin, and Chicago.
Q: How many members do you have currently?
We Run Nairobi members before a group run in the capital
A: We’ve grown quite quickly. We now have over 22,000 members on our socials, and we reach over a million people every month through our social media campaigns. Our runs bring together anywhere between 200 to 500 people. It’s been incredible to watch the momentum build.
Q: The club welcomes all levels – even walkers. Why is that important to you?
A: Because at its core, it’s really just about movement. Running can feel intimidating, especially if you’re just starting out, but what we’ve managed to create is a space where people can run and chase personal bests, or simply walk and reconnect.
We’ve struck a balance between performance and presence
– it’s just as valuable to walk, stretch with yoga, cheer from the sidelines, or show up for the community, as it is to clock miles. There’s no one way to participate – the point is that you came.
Q: On the WRN website [https://werunnairobi.com/] there is a quote from you on the power of running to “unite, inspire and uplift.” Have you seen many examples among club members?
A: So many – more than I could have imagined when we first started. We’ve seen friendships blossom, people return to running after years away, and others accomplish personal milestones they never thought possible. But what moves me most is the way our community shows up for one another.
Running may have brought us together, but it’s the community
anyone can simply show up at the designated spot and start running with us. No registration needed.
Q: The Nairobi City Marathon is coming up on July 6. Will there be plenty of WRN runners on the starting line?
A: Absolutely – we’ll be out in force!
Q: What for you are the advantages of running in a group?
A: The accountability, the encouragement, and the sense of camaraderie. Group running makes you feel, well, simply not alone. It’s tougher to show up early on a Saturday, but if know that your mates will be there too, then it makes it a little easier.
Q: How do you choose the club’s running routes?
The community we’ve built is warm, vibrant, and beautifully selfsustaining. People don’t just show up to run – they show up for one another."
A: I absolutely love Nairobi – all of it – the chaos, the calm, the contrast. And our goal is to have WRN reflect that full spectrum of the city soon. But when it comes to choosing our running routes, safety and ease come first.
there’s less traffic and more greenery to set the tone for a rejuvenating reset.
Q: WRN was launched in October 2022. What are you most proud of from the last two years?
We
Run Nairobi's routes explore Nairobi's leafier neighbourhoods
We pick areas that are already running-friendly, like Karura Forest and the Arboretum, or quieter neighbourhoods like Riverside and Karen, where
A: The community we’ve built. It’s warm, vibrant, and beautifully self-sustaining. People don’t just show up to run – they show up for one another. There’s a real sense of care that’s grown organically, whether it’s someone waiting behind to pace a newer runner, helping a friend train for their first race, or simply staying back for a long post-run coffee to check in with each other.
I’m proud of how WRN has become more than just a run club.
Q: What’s next for WRN?
A: We’d love to deepen our impact in Nairobi by offering more in the wellness space, like our recent monthly yoga sessions, and doing more about environmental consciousness.
Arusha Restaurants
Vegan in Arusha: Five plant-based restaurants you need to try
Arusha might be known for its carnivore culture, but Ziada Abeid uncovers some dining options that are mouthwatering and meat-free.
Where do you even find vegan food in Arusha?” a friend once asked me. The question got my investigative gears turning. Arusha is firmly rooted in meat culture. Stroll down any street or peek into most local eateries, and you’ll be greeted
by the smoky aroma of nyama choma (grilled meat). Vegan options can feel rare. But with a bit of curiosity and a lot of appetite, I searched and found standout pockets of plant-powered restaurants waiting to be discovered. Here are my five favourites.
Arusha Restaurants
Five Chutneys
Just a stone’s throw from Soko Kuu market, Five Chutneys is a sensory escape into India’s vegan street food culture. As soon as you enter, the aroma of sizzling spices welcomes you while walls adorned with traditional Indian brass tiffins whisper stories of India.
The menu is rich with flavourful vegan dishes, the most popular being the Masala Dosa, a crisp rice pancake stuffed with spiced potatoes, served with coconut chutney and lentil stew. With over 37 vegan options and 23 gluten-free choices, this is Arusha’s top-ranked vegan eatery on TripAdvisor.
What sets it apart even more? Seniors aged 75 and above can dine for free, a thoughtful touch rooted in Indian hospitality. A second location can be found in Karatu, near the Ngorongoro gate, making it a perfect pit stop en route to the crater.
Location: Near Soko Kuu Market, Arusha
Contact: +255 783 505 505
Amber’s Restaurant
Tucked away beside the busy Impala Roundabout, Amber’s Restaurant fuses Indian, IndoChinese, and international cuisine, and it does so with finesse. This isn’t just a curry house; it’s a multicultural kitchen and one of the few spots where diversity on the menu meets a thoughtful approach to vegan diets.
The open kitchen layout offers a behind-the-scenes glimpse as chefs prepare crowd favourites like mixed vegetable curry and
chilli mushrooms using fresh, local ingredients. Its Bhindi Masala and Vegetable Manchurian are equally popular with vegan diners.
The staff are accommodating and happy to tailor meals to meet dietary requirements, meaning almost any dish can be veganised upon request.
Amber’s is loved for its laid-back vibe and versatile menu, perfect for anyone who craves spice and substance in vegan choices.
Location: Impala Roundabout, Arusha
Contact: +255 764 849 576
Spices and Herbs, Ethiopian Restaurant
For something a little different, Spices and Herbs along Simeon Road brings you the warmth and comfort of Ethiopian cuisine. The country’s food scene is heavily influenced by religious fasting periods where animal products are not consumed so it is very vegan friendly. The restaurant’s menu is predominantly plant-based with injera, the signature sour flatbread, the base for a colourful array of vegan stews, from spiced lentils to garlicky greens.
The Beyaynetu platter, a traditional selection of vegan dishes served atop injera, is a must. Add in Shiro Wot (chickpea stew), and you’ve got a meal that’s soulful, healthy, and satisfying. Each meal is filling, nutritious, and full of layered flavours that showcase the richness of Ethiopian spices.
Ethiopian food lovers will appreciate the authenticity, while newcomers will find it an eye-opening culinary journey.
Location: Simeon Road, Arusha
Contact: +255 782 313 161
Chinese Whispers
Upstairs in the lively Njiro Complex, Chinese Whispers offers a welcoming escape into savoury, authentic Chinese cuisine with a surprisingly extensive range of vegan options.
Topping the vegan favourites list is home-style tofu, stir-fried to perfection in soy sauce, ginger, and garlic. Another hit is the Szechuan-style eggplant, which combines sweet, sour, and spicy elements beautifully.
With a cosy and modern ambience, warm wooden décor, and large windows that allow natural light to flood in during the day, Chinese Whispers is highly rated as the best veganfriendly restaurant in Arusha on TripAdvisor. It's a go-to spot for those craving Chinese comfort food with a plant-based twist after a day exploring the city.
Location: Second Floor, Njiro Complex, Arusha
Contact: +255 688 969 666
Lebanese on the Go
Just downstairs from Chinese Whispers in Njiro Complex is Lebanese on the Go, a newcomer that’s already making waves with its vibrant Middle Eastern dishes. Everything here is bold, fresh, fast, and full of flavour.
Although the menu is not vegan per se, it has ample vegan choices. The star of the show is the falafel dish, crispy, golden, and served with pita, hummus, and a refreshing lemon vinaigrette salad. Other must-tries include Babaghanouj and Batata Harra (spicy potatoes), and Mujaddara, a comforting blend of lentils and rice topped with caramelised onions.
The minimalist décor, fast service, and delicious bites make it ideal for a nourishing grab-and-go lunch between meetings or excursions.
Lebanese on the Go is one of those places where the food speaks loudly and the language is flavour.
Location: Ground Floor, Njiro Complex, Arusha
Contact: +255 740 311 616
Whether you’re passing through on a safari, climbing Kilimanjaro, or on a business layover, these five vegan-friendly spots are more than just a surprise, they’re a delight. So next time you're in town, follow your fork and explore Arusha one veggie plate at a time.
Walking safari
In the Serengeti
Walk the wild for a slow safari experience
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.
Wilderness 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.
The Serengeti awaits – and it’s yours alone to discover.
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
A DEEPER DIVE INTO DAR ES SALAAM
Spending more time in one of Africa’s most exciting cities reveals its depth of attractions. We scratch beneath the surface for the Dar the locals know.
Beaches
Coco Beach is coastal city Dar’s 24/7 oceanside hotspot. By day its food shacks and beach football pitches draw the crowds while its nightclubs shake the sands deep into the night. However, those familiar with Dar know it has many more beaches that offer a more secluded and serene experience. Around 9km south of the city is the flawless stretch of sand that is Kigamboni Beach. If you’re travelling north check out Mbezi Beach. It is home to the White Sands Resort and Conference
Centre and a great place to kick back, enjoy water sports and soak up the sun. A little further north is Bahari beach, a soothing spot next to a fishing village. Here you can end the day with some fresh seafood grilled before you at a beach barbecue.
Music
Music is everywhere in Dar es Salaam. Afrobeats and Bongo Flava – a Tanzanian twist on
The global rise in padel tennis and pickleball has hit Dar. The Racket Sports Club has two venues in the capital – in Masaki and Ghana Street in the city centre."
from cars and bars while the
get everyone dancing to the latest tracks. However, if you the
produces and hear it played live by the artists themselves,
L’Alliance Francaise is tucked way behind the golf course
the Jumatano Groove live music nights – Jumatano
upcoming local artists take the stage. Across town in Mikocheni, Nafasi Arts Space hosts regular live shows with music ranging from traditional taarab – a Swahili music genre that can be traced back to the early 19th century – to singeli, the frenetic DIY dance genre born on the streets of Dar. Nafasi also hosts the annual two-day arts festival
Wikiendi Live that features musical acts from Tanzania and beyond. This year’s event takes place on September 26 and 27.
Sport
Tanzanians love their football and Dar es Salaam is home to some of the mostly hotly contested matches in Tanzanian Premier League. Two of the league’s best performing clubs, Simba and Young Africans, both hail from Dar neighbourhood Kariakoo. When the two teams play each other in what has become known as the ‘Dar derby’, the city is transfixed. Getting a ticket to the game is the gateway to one of Dar’s most unforgettable sporting experiences. Running is also popular here with the wealth of beaches becoming jogging tracks, especially at low tide in the cool mornings. Jogging clubs can be a great motivator, provide security for those intimidated by running alone
and are a great way to meet new people. The Runners Club in Dar is the biggest of its kind in Tanzania. Get in touch @ runnerstanzania on Instagram. The global rise in padel tennis and pickleball has hit Dar. The Racket Sports Club has two venues in the capital – in Masaki and Ghana Street in the city centre. The clubs have memberships, but non-members can book courts and play at a slightly higher price.
Markets
The airbrushed shopping experience of tourist-targeted centres such as the Slipway and Milimani City Mall has its place, but there are other down-to-earth optiond that get closer to the rapidly beating heart of Dar. Chief among them is the colossal Kariakoo Market, where you can bargain for just about everything you need – from stacks of fresh fruit, vegetables and pieces to household
essentials. Its sprawling size can be intimidating at first, but the more you’ll visit you’ll become familiar with its layout. For example, the area between the Livingstone Hotel and Lumumba Garden Hotel is where you’ll find most of the mitumba – second-hand clothing – stalls. It pays to arrive early and get access to the freshest produce. You’ll need to set your alarm clock even earlier for the Kivukoni fish market as boats arrive laden with their overnight catch at daybreak. Then the selling starts with eager customers including representatives from some of Dar’s biggest hotels and restaurants on the look-out for the best fish and seafood for their menus. A far calmer market experience is available on the last Saturday
of every month when the Swahili Farmers’ Market takes over the courtyard of the Oysterbay Shopping Centre. You’ll find organic produce from farms across Tanzania as well as hand-baked bread, and local honey and coffee.
Film
There are a handful of multiplex cinemas in Dar es Salaam. They predominantly screen blockbuster movies from Europe, the US and India. Most are screened in their original language with Swahili subtitles. However, the Tanzanian film industry is growing and recently there have been a few domestic releases – such as ‘Binti’ and last year’s ‘The Christmas Run’ – that have been released on the big screen. Tickets cost TSH 5,000 (US$ 2) Monday to Thursday with the price doubling from Friday into the weekend. Multiplexes are just the visible tip of the cinematic iceberg in Dar. For a true local movie experience, head to one of the hundreds of video bandas. These small, informal cinemas – little more than a few rows of chairs and a boxy old television – screen DVDs of foreign films with a dubbed Swahili ‘commentary’ rather than translation. Sometimes the commentary is provided live by a DJ who interacts with the crowd. The result is a cross between going to the cinema and a stand-up comedy gig. Don’t miss.
At the colossal Kariakoo Market, where you can bargain for just about everything you need – from stacks of fresh fruit, vegetables and pieces to household essentials."
Big screen releases such as 'Binti' are evidence of Dar's thriving film scene
Fresh catch for Kivikoni fish market
Tanzania Record breakers
Tanzania’s record breakers
Tanzania is a country of superlatives – from Africa’s tallest mountain and the world’s largest volcanic depression to probably the fastest musical genre on earth. Zebra Stripes rounds up the biggest and the best attractions to experience on your trip.
The largest country in East Africa…
At 947,417 square kilometres (including the islands of Zanzibar, Pemba and Mafia), Tanzania is a large country with a diverse range of habitats, including savannas, forests, mountains, and coastal areas. This variety supports a rich and diverse wildlife population on land and sea.
The world’s tallest species…
Among the country’s rich wildlife is around 28,850 Maasai giraffe (according to the latest figures from the Tanzania Wildlife Research Institute). The giraffe is Tanzania’s national animal chosen for its long-necked grace that represents the ability to be visionary in seeing the past and the present.
Africa’s tallest mountain…
At 5,895 metres, Mount Kilimanjaro is also the world’s tallest free-standing mountain (meaning that it’s not part of a range of peaks). The snowcapped stratovolcano is comprised of three cones with the highest of them, Kibo, the prized summit for the 50,000plus climbers that take on the iconic mountain every year. Will you be one of them?
Record breakers Tanzania
Tanzania’s tallest tree…
Mount Kilimanjaro is also home to the country’s tallest tree. The 600-year-old Entandrophragma excelsum – the tallest indigenous species in Africa – is found in a remote valley in the foothills of the mountain at 2,160 metres (the altitude isn’t included in the tree’s height, that would be cheating). Just the tree measures 81.5 metres tall and it has a trunk diameter of 2.55 metres.
The oldest turtle…
Tanzania is known for its very young human population with a median age of just 17.5 years. Not all its inhabitants are as youthful. Visit the Natural History Museum in Arusha and you’ll find Baruti, a 160-yearold giant Aldabra tortoise, moving (slowly) around its manicured grounds. Baruti has packed a lot into to his more than one and a half centuries
on this earth. He was brought to Tanzania from Australia in 1935. He was left to live wild on Mount Kilimanjaro where his habit of eating every plant is sight – giant Aldabra turtles have a prodigious appetite – did not earn him many friends among the local farmers. For his own safety, Baruti was rehomed at the museum, where he has established himself as a visitor favourite (he loves a leg scratch, apparently).
The oldest building…
The strategic harbour of Stone Town has been at the heart of Zanzibar’s storied history for centuries. No building has seen more than the Old Fort. It was built by the Portuguese around 1699 and later rebuilt by the Omani Arabs in the 18th century. It is still a big part of island life today as the venue to two of the biggest local events, the Sauti za Busara music festival and the Zanzibar International Film Festival.
The fastest music genre…
Singeli originated in the suburbs of Dar es Salaam in the mid2000s. It is characterised by incredibly fast beats – often exceeding 300 beats per minute – with rapping MCs desperately trying to keep up. From its underground beginnings, singeli has rocketed in popularity and is now played in festivals and clubs all over the world. ‘Jumatano Groove’, a live music event held at Dar’s Alliance Francaise every Wednesday from 7.30pm to 10pm is a good place to catch new singeli acts on stage.
The tallest tower…
Dar es Salaam’s harbourfront is a modern symbol of Tanzania’s growing urban landscape and
The Old Fort, Stone Town
economic development with its row of gleaming skyscrapers. Most gigantic of all is the Tanzania Ports Authority Tower, which rises to a height of 162 metres and has 40 floors. However, the proposed Zanzibar Domino Tower – a planned 70-story, spiralling skyscraper proposed for an artificial island near the west coast of Zanzibar, Tanzania –could one day break the current record.
The fastest animal on earth…
Tanzania is home to an estimated 1,500 to 2,000 of the East African cheetah population. The big cat can reach speeds of up to 104.2 km/h in short bursts during hunts. That’s more than twice as fast
as Jamaican sprinter Usain Bolt, who got up to 44.7 km/h in his record-breaking 100 metres performance.
The world’s largest volcanic depression…
With a total area of 264 sq km, Ngorongoro Crater is the world’s largest intact volcano caldera. The crater’s steep walls create a self-contained ecosystem that supports more than 25,000 animals, including the Big Five. The Unesco World Heritage Site is one of Tanzania’s most popular safari destinations.
The world’s only tree-climbing lions…
If you think you can escape a lion by climbing up a tree, think
again. Lake Manyara and Serengeti national parks are home to lions known to seek respite from the heat and flies at ground level and laze in the sturdy branches of trees such as sausage, acacia and sycamore. Sometimes an entire pride of lions can be seen sharing one tree. An incredible photo opportunity.
The largest lion population in the world…
Tanzania also has plenty of lions on the ground. In fact, more than half the lions in the world roam Tanzania’s national parks. The Serengeti-Mara ecosystem is a major stronghold that is estimated to have around 3,000 to 4,000 of the big cats. see the ‘kings of the jungle’ in the wild.
SLEEP UNDER THE STARS ON SINDA ISLAND
Wild camping is among the exclusive activities to be enjoyed on this serene island escape that is just a short boat trip from the Dar es Salaam coast.
Tucked away on a secluded sandy spot just nine km south of Dar es Salaam, Kigamboni Beach is a tranquil refuge from the bustle of the city for locals. However, visitors seeking serenity may like to know that the beach is also the launching place for an even more exclusive escape. Sinda Island is just a 30-minute boat ride from the coast here and offers pristine beaches, spectacular snorkelling and scuba diving, and sleepovers under the stars.
The uninhabited Sinda is part of a cluster of offshore islands protected by the Dar es Salaam Marine Reserve (DMRS). Among the seven islands are Mbudya and Bongoyo, both popular day trips from Dar, but the 4.6 sq km Sinda stands out for its natural beauty, rich history and the option of overnight stays. Here’s our guide to making the most of your time on the island.
Rich history
The first mention of the island was made by Arab sailor Ibn Majid, who noted its presence in his journals in 1470. German colonists in the late 19th century saw Sinda’s potential as an exclusive escape and built a hotel and rest house on the island. The ruins of these buildings have survived to this day and can be explored by visitors.
Ruins of German colonial homes can be found on Sinda
A diver’s paradise
Sinda island is part of a larger coral reef formation that is revealed by crystal-clear waters. The conditions are ideal for diving and snorkelling with marine life to be spotted including clown fish, sea turtles and even dolphins.
Beautiful beaches
At low tide, Sinda is top and tailed by large beaches of bone white sand. These are perfect spots for picnics or just relaxing in the sunshine to a soporific soundtrack of lapping waves.
The ‘Champagne Baobab Tree’ is an ancient tree that has grown to resemble a bottle of bubbly."
Kayaking
Sinda’s diverse coastline of tranquil lagoons, mangrove-lined shores, rocky cliffs and beaches can be explored by canoe. A gentle paddle will reveal plenty of bird and marine life.
Walking trails
There are several walking paths that wind through the island’s forested interior and along the shoreline. These trails provide opportunities to observe the diverse flora and fauna of the reserve while enjoying stunning views of the ocean and surrounding landscapes. A walk will reveal one of the island’s most curious natural features, the ‘Champagne Baobab Tree’, an ancient tree that has grown to resemble a bottle of bubbly.
SINDA
Wild camping
For an epic back-to-basics adventure, visitors can camp overnight on Sinda. Tour company Wildman Gallery provides the camping gear, a beach barbecue and a sunset cruise. The real excitement, though, comes when night falls. The unpolluted sky is breathtaking, yet you can still make out the twinkle of the city lights on the mainland as a reminder of the Dar bustle you have left behind. Perfect for group getaways, team bonding, or a romantic escape.
Party island
While many people head to Sinda as a haven of tranquillity, the island is also gaining popularity as the perfect hideaway for a party, event or special occasion. There have been graduation parties, corporate retreats and even a wedding. Each month Sinda’s lunar-lit beach hosts a full-moon party and you can welcome in the New Year here with a two-day trip – including one night of tented accommodation with music, food and drinks thrown in – starting December 31.
The price for boat trips to Sinda Island should include a marine park fee. Check before you travel. All the trips and activities mentioned in the article can be booked through Wildman Gallery. Visit @wildmangallerey and @sindaislandooficial on Instagram for more details.
Boat trips to Sinda set off from Kigamboni Beach
Congratulations for answering all of the questions correctly and thank you for flying with Flightlink
Derrick Musumbu wins a return ticket to Nairobi from Dar es Salaam or Zanzibar, well done and thank you for flying with Flightlink
Earn your stripes Flightlink quiz
Chance to win a return Flightlink ticket
We know Flightlink customers are smart – you chose to fly with us for a start – but just how smart? Well, here’s the test:
10 questions to occupy your minds during your flight. Get them all right – you’ll find all the answers within the articles in this issue of Zebra Stripes if you need help – and you could win a return ticket between Dar es Salaam and Zanzibar on us.
HOW TO ENTER
To be in with a chance of winning a return flight between Dar es Salaam and Zanzibar international airports, email your answers along with a picture of yourself holding this issue of Zebra Stripes on your flight today to competition@landmarine.org
Closing date for entries is August 15. Here are the questions!
1From July 1, how many destinations will Flightlink fly to?
2How many aircrafts does Flightlink operate in total?
3How many flight does Flightlink operate from Arusha to Zanzibar in a single day?
4Which river that traverses the Serengeti’s Western Corridor hosts the dramatic crossings of millions of wildebeest each year?
5From which beach south of Dar es Salaam’s can you take a boat trip to Sinda Island?
6The members of run club We Run Nairobi are gearing up for the Nairobi City Marathon. When does the race take place this year?
7
What is the maximum weight of the baggage that the super-fit porters of Kilimanjaro Wanderwomen Tours carry up and down Africa’s highest mountain?
8
What is the name of the island national park within Mwanza’s city limits?
9
What is the name of the oldest building in Stone Town, Zanzibar? (Clue, it’s also the main venue for the Zanzibar International Film Festival).
10
How many films from around the world are being screened at this year’s Zanzibar International Film Festival?
Our destinations
The Flightlink network
Our growing network includes eight Tanzanian destinations and is now international with the recent additions of Mombasa and Nairobi in Kenya. Here’s a brief guide to each to help you plan your next trip with Flightlink.
Dar es Salaam
Dar es Salaam (meaning ‘haven of peace’ in Arabic) is Tanzania’s largest city and its commercial capital. Dar is the third fastest growing city in Africa and home to a thriving arts, music and food culture. It is also a coastal city with beautiful beaches, including Coco Beach, which is known for wealth of beach bars and nightclubs. Soak up the city's bustle at its markets. Kariakoo Market is the pulse of the city's traditional commerce with fresh fruit, vegetables and spices, second-hand clothes and bargains galore. Make an early start to catch the fishermen laden with the night's catch at Kivukoni Fish Market on the waterfront. It's a great place to see daily life and enjoy seafood. For a more tranquil shopping experience head to The Slipway shopping centre overlooking Msasani Bay.
Zanzibar
Zanzibar is an archipelago of more than 47 islands off the east coast of Tanzania. Unguja (also known as Zanzibar Island)‚ Pemba and Mafia are the main islands and attract visitors from all over the world. The islands are known for their rich history, spectacular beaches and diverse marine life. Unguja is just a 20-minute flight from Dar es Salaam and is famous for its
historic port Stone Town, which is home to a cosmopolitan community shaped by centuries of trade with the Middle East, Europe and Africa, The island is ringed with coral reefs with diverse marine life. An incredible underwater world awaits divers here while kite surfers will love the idyllic conditions of the south-east coast.
Arusha
Arusha in northern Tanzania is the gateway to the world-famous national parks of the ‘Northern Safari Circuit’. It is also the place from where hikers set off to ascend Mount Kilimanjaro. Getting to the top of ‘Kili’, as Africa’s highest peak is affectionately called, is a bucket-list experience for climbers the world over. With close to 760,000 inhabitants‚ Arusha region is one of the most developed in Tanzania‚ not only due to its tourism infrastructure‚ its business community‚ but also because the city serves as home to the diplomatically important East African Community.
Serengeti
airstrips
One of Africa’s seven natural wonders, the Serengeti National Park covers an area of over 30,000 sq km and boasts massive wildlife populations,
including the Big Five. It is best known for its Great Migration in which millions-strong herds of wildebeest, zebra and antelope move from the Ngorongoro region in the south east‚ westwards into the Serengeti and then north over the border into the Masai Mara and back again in a cyclical search for green pastures to feed on. Lying in wait on this perilous journey are predators including around 4,000 lions.
Pemba
Pemba‚ often referred to as ‘The Green Island’, is part of the Zanzibar archipelago‚ and is renowned for its lush‚
Dar es Salaam is Tanzania's commercial capital
Kehinde Temitope Odutayo / Shutterstock.com
Elephants walks in the grasslands with Mount Kilimanjaro in the background
www.flightlink.co.tz
tropical landscapes‚ including dense forests‚ spice plantations‚ and pristine beaches. The island offers a quieter‚ more authentic experience compared to its larger, more developed Zanzibar Island. Visitors can explore historic ruins‚ vibrant markets‚ and traditional Swahili culture. Pemba is famous for its thriving spice trade‚ particularly cloves. Diving and snorkeling enthusiasts are drawn to the crystal-clear waters surrounding Pemba‚ which host a diverse marine ecosystem‚ including coral reefs.
Kilimanjaro
At 4,985 metres, Mt Kilimanjaro is the highest point in Africa. A guided trek to the top is a bucket-list adventure for hikers worldwide. If you have neither the time nor the inclination for such a challenging endeavour, the mountain’s lower slopes in Kilimanjaro National Park can be explored on day hikes or bike
rides. You’ll discover spectacular biodiversity, wildlife such as elephant, giraffe buffalo as well as a chance to integrate with tribes such as the Chagga and Maasai that call this area home.
Mombasa
Kenya’s oldest city and second largest after Nairobi is the gateway to the magnificent beaches of southern Kenya and the Mombasa National Marine Park. Nearby beaches such as Kilifi‚ Watamu and Diani are among the most beautiful of the East Africa coastline. The cosmopolitan Old Town is a rewarding destination for a walk.
Nairobi
Nairobi‚ the capital and largest city of Kenya‚ is a dynamic metropolis. It serves as the political‚ economic‚ and cultural centre of Kenya‚ and it's known as the Green City in the Sun
due to its pleasant climate and lush greenery. It boasts a mix of modern skyscrapers and colonial-era architecture. It is the only capital city in the world with a national park in it where wildlife roam against a backdrop of the city’s spectacular skyline.
Mwanza
Tanzania’s second city hugs the southern shore of Lake Victoria. Mwanza is nicknamed ‘Rock City’ because it’s overwhelmingly beautiful coastline features hundreds of massive boulders. Viistors can explore Africa’s largest lake on fishing trips, sunset cruises and ferry rides to island national parks. Surprising to some, is that Mwanza is a gateway to animal adventures. It is the closest city to the Serengeti with the world-famous national park’s scenic Western Corridor just a two-hour drive away.
The 'green island' of Pemba is renowned for its pristine beaches
Connecting you to Tanzania and beyond
SERENGETI
Seronera
Flightlink Routes
Current Destinations (Routes)
Serengeti Airsrips
Fort Ikoma, Kogatende, Seronera Loliondo, Ndutu, Lake Manyara Ngorongoro
Nairobi Airports
Jomo Kenyata International Airport
Wilson International Airport
Discover the hidden gems of Tanzania with the comfort and efficiency of our
ATR72-500 Twin Engine
Turbo Prop Aircraft
Embark on a seamless journey through Tanzania’s breathtaking landscapes aboard our twin engine turbo prop ATR72-500 aircraft. Flightlink operates three ATR72-500 in our fleet. This fuel-efficient, spacious, and comfortable twin-engine turboprop aircraft is perfectly suited for exploring the country’s diverse tourist and business destinations.
With a strong safety record and a design optimized for
ATR72-500
short runways, you can confidently reach even the most remote corners of Tanzania. Our commitment to safety is unwavering, with rigorous crew training and meticulous aircraft maintenance adhering to the highest standards. Relax in our single-class economy cabin, featuring a welcoming and spacious
Experience our Bushrover!
Cessna Grand Caravan
208B G1000
The Cessna Grand Caravan 208B is more than just an aircraft; it’s a rugged explorer, engineered to conquer the vast plains of Serengeti and the Maasai Land.
Flightlink operates two Cessna Grand Caravans in our fleet. The aircraft’s exceptional performance allows it
Tanzania HQ
3rd Floor, Room number NO 3 Oyster
Pearl Gallaria, Chole Raod Masaki, PO Box 2858 Dar ES Salaam, Tanzania. Kenya HQ
Wilson Business Park, Wilson Airport. Karen, Langata Road, Nairobi, Kenya
layout with seats arranged in pairs. Enjoy a smooth and quiet flight, knowing you're contributing to a greener future with our aircraft's low emissions and reduced environmental impact. Choose ATR72-500 for a safe, comfortable, and sustainable travel experience in Tanzania with Flightlink.
to operate seamlessly from all major airstrips within the Serengeti, including Seronera, Fort Ikoma, Kogatende, Sasakwa, Ndutu, Lobo, and Lake Manyara.
Renowned for its safety record, the Grand Caravan boasts reliable turbo prop engines, impressive fuel efficiency, and extended range, making it the preferred choice
for efficient and comfortable safaris. Its robust design and quick turnaround capabilities ensure minimal disruptions to your adventure.
Cessna Grand Caravans have spacious cabins with ample legroom and large windows provide passengers with unparalleled comfort and unobstructed views of the savannah and its wildlife.
ATR72-500 Number in fleet: Three
Twin-engine turboprop aircraft
Passenger capacity: 72 seats
Maximum cruising speed: 275 knots per hour (510 km/h)
One Beechcraft 1900C Number in fleet: One Twin-engine turboprop aircraft
Passenger capacity: 19 seats
Maximum cruising speed: 284 knots per hour (526 km/h)
Number in fleet: Two
Single engine turbo prop aircraft
Passenger capacity: 13 seats
Maximum cruising speed: 185 knots per hour (343 km/h)
Emails
Tanzania - Reservations
centralreservations@flightlink.co.tz
Kenya - Reservations
reservations.kenya@flightlink.co.tz
Customer Service customerservice@flightlink.co.tz
Saturday - 09:00 hrs - 13:00 hrs
Sunday and Public Holidays - Closed
Cessna Grand Caravan G1000
Travel Information
Our goals and mission
About us
Established in 2001, Flightlink is a Tanzanian-owned airline, fully licensed and certified to operate in both Tanzania and Kenya. Our core objective is to facilitate convenient travel, bridging the gap between major international airlines and domestic or safari destinations within Tanzania.
Principles
At the heart of our operations are three key principles: safety, punctuality, and exceptional customer service. We are deeply committed to upholding stringent safety standards, ensuring that our passengers reach their destinations both safely and on schedule. Our focus on quality service aims to make every journey with us a memorable experience.
Our Mission
To connect tourists with the diverse wonders of East Africa, from its iconic wildlife destinations to its stunning coastal regions, through a dedicated fleet and a passion for exceeding expectations.
Our Vision
To be the premier airline in East Africa recognised for connecting tourists with the region’s most extraordinary experiences.
Safety
Flightlink's commitment to your well-being and safety is the foundation upon which we operate. We provide the highest levels of safety for our passengers and crew‚ fostering a culture of safety awareness throughout our organization.
Our commitment to safety is reflected in our strict adherence to both local and international standards . We operate in accordance with the standards set by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA)‚ the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)‚ the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO)‚ and the Tanzania Civil Aviation Authority (TCAA). In addition to the above standards ‚ TCAA conducts regular inspections and audits to ensure our continued compliance.
Flightlink takes pride in its fleet of modern‚ eco-friendly ATR-72-500 turboprop aircraft. These twin-engine planes are known for their fuel efficiency and are meticulously maintained to meet the highest safety standards.
We have implemented a robust Safety Management System (SMS) that aligns with ICAO guidelines and best practices. This comprehensive system is fully approved by the TCAA. By prioritising safety‚ we aim to earn your trust and provide you with a peace of mind whenever you choose to fly with Flightlink.
Our
Promise Dreams Delivered, On time, every time.
The larger ATR72-500 has a stand up pressurized cabin, 2 pilots with 2 cabin crew
1 pc of 20kg on domestic services including Nairobi Wilson and 1 pc of 23kg on regional services.
5Kg hand baggage allowance
Free on board snacks and drinks on selected routes
Book, pay and check in online with our Flightlink App
We accept payment with all major currencies and cards
LIPA number and mobile payment accepted
Convenient and timely connections to the tourism circuits
Safe, reliable and on-time performance
Flightlink App (iOS and Android) guaranteed 5% discount
