Safari Adventure
From Serengeti to Ngorongoro
Meet the Big Five
Icons of the Savannah
Lose yourself in the enchanting landscapes of Tanzania, where the wilderness whispers its stories and every step is an adventure Discover the essence of Africa, where safaris turn dreams into reality and cultural treasures shine.
Welcome to the world of Tanzania!
I am incredibly proud to introduce this travel guide! Your trip to Tanzania is booked, and I can’t wait to help you prepare for this dream journey This guide is meant to build excitement and help you get ready, so you can set off fully prepared.
Tanzania is one of the most unique and diverse countries in Africa. It offers everything from majestic mountains to expansive savannas and exotic beaches. I am a fortunate person to have lived here for years and to have my children grow up in this beautiful place. I can’t wait to share the country’s beauty with you
In this travel guide, you will find information, interesting stories, and tips. You’ll also get an idea of what to expect during your trip I hope my knowledge and passion will contribute to your preparations and excitement for your journey.
I wish you a fantastic time in Tanzania and look forward to hearing your stories and adventures!
Safari greetings, or as we say in Tanzania: kwaheri!
Selma
Tanzania is a country in East Africa that borders Kenya and Uganda to the north, Rwanda,Burundi,andtheCongotothewest, andZambia,Malawi,andMozambiquetothe south ThecapitalofTanzaniaisDodoma,but the largest city is Dar es Salaam Tanzania has a population of about 65 million people and more than 120 ethnic groups, including the Sukuma, Chagga, Maasai, and Hadza. The official language is Swahili, and each ethnic groupalsohasitsownlanguage
The landscape of Tanzania is very diverse and includes Africa's highest mountain, Mount Kilimanjaro, which rises to a height of 5,895 meters, the Serengeti plains, the Ngorongoro Crater,andtheislandofZanzibaroffthecoast ofTanzania
One of the major geographical features is the GreatRiftValley,amassivegeologicalriftthat stretches from Syria to Mozambique It was formed by the movement of the Earth's crust, which led to the splitting of the African and Arabian plates. The Rift Valley in Tanzania is about 300 km long and includes some of the most spectacular landscapes and wildlife in Africa
The Serengeti is especially known for the annualmigrationofwildebeest
The Ngorongoro Crater is also part of the Great Rift Valley and is one of the largest calderasintheworld TheNgorongoroCrater was formed by a volcanic eruption about 25 million years ago and is now home to a vast array of wildlife, including lions, elephants, hippos,andrhinos
Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa's highest mountain, is a dormant volcano and attracts thousands of hikers and climbers each year It is remarkable that you can reach the summit of this nearly 6-kilometer-high mountain on footwithoutpriorclimbingexperience. Tanzaniaisoneofthepoorestcountriesinthe world, but it has a growing economy The main economic activities are agriculture, f h d
“Africa,wheretherhythm ofthelandechoesthe heartbeatofthesoul.”
One of the most famous features of the Great RiftValleyinTanzaniaistheSerengetiplains Thisvastsavannaregionishometolargeherds of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles, as well as their associated predators such as lions, cheetahs,andhyenas
Tanzania has large lakes, including Lake Victoria and Lake Tanganyika, which are important for fishing The coastal areas of Tanzania include the mainland and the island of Zanzibar, known for its white sandy beaches and turquoise waters. Zanzibar has a richhistoryasasignificantcenterfortheslave tradeandthespicetrade
“If I have ever seen magic, it has been in Africa.”
-John Hemingway
The history of Tanzania dates back to the earliest human habitation of the African continent TheregionnowknownasTanzania was home to various indigenous peoples and kingdoms, including the Bantu, the Swahili, andtheMaasai
In the 16th century, the first European explorers arrived in the region, including Portuguese navigators and traders In the 19th century,theregionthatisnowTanzaniabegan to come under the influence of European colonial powers The Germans established a colony in Tanzania in 1884, which was taken overbyGreatBritainin1919,afterWorldWar I
Inthedecade on building characterized which aimed development the national economy
During the British colonial era, a growing awareness of Tanzanian national identity and a desire for independence emerged. After a prolonged campaign for independence, Tanzania eventually became independent in 1961 under the leadership of Julius Nyerere, whobecamethecountry’sfirstpresident
1990s, Tanzania faced economic esandshiftedtowardsamoremarketeconomy Since then, Tanzania has ned a stable democracy To a is a major economic player in nd boasts a rich cultural and nat heritage,includingtheworld-famousSeren NationalParkandtheislandofZanzibar
Politically, Tanzania is a democracy with a presidential system The country has a rich history of resistance against colonial rule, led by figures such as Julius Nyerere, Tanzania’s firstpresident Heisoftenrememberedasone of Tanzania’s greatest leaders and one of the most influential political figures in African history due to his leadership role in the struggle for independence and his socialist vision
“Africa
changes you forever, like nowhere on earth. Once you have been there, you will never be the same. But how do you begin to describe its magic to someone who has never felt it?
-Brian Jackman
Tanzania has a population of about 65 million people, making it one of the most populous countries in Africa. The population of Tanzania is very diverse and consists of more than 120 different ethnic groups. The largest tribes are the Sukuma, Chagga, Haya, Nyamwezi, and Maasai.
Most Tanzanians are Bantu speakers and speak more than 120 different languages
Swahili is the national language and is spoken by nearly all Tanzanians, alongside their mother tongues
The majority of the Tanzanian population relies on agriculture, with most being small-scale farmers Agriculture accounts for about a quarter of Tanzania's GDP, and nearly 70% of the population is employed in the agricultural sector Key crops include maize, rice, cassava, bananas, and coffee In addition to agriculture, Tanzania also has a growing mining sector and tourism industry Tanzania is the fourthlargest gold producer in Africa and has significant reserves of other minerals, such as tanzanite, diamonds, and coal The tourism industry is also important for Tanzania, with attractions like the Serengeti and Mount Kilimanjaro drawing thousands of visitors each year
Religion is central to Tanzanian life, with about 50% Christians, 35% Muslims, and a presence of traditional indigenous religions Christianity, introduced by European missionaries in the 19th century, includes various denominations such as Roman Catholic, Anglican, and Lutheran Islam, brought by Arab traders, is predominantly practiced along the coast and on Zanzibar In addition to these organized religions, there are traditional African beliefs, including elements of animism and ancestor worship Overall, religion is an important aspect of daily life in Tanzania
In the villages and small towns of Tanzania, you often find houses made of clay, bricks, or wood These houses frequently have thatched roofs and are usually built without modern appliances or technology Many homes lack electricity and running water, with people often relying on communal resources like wells and public toilets In larger cities such as Dar es Salaam, Arusha, and Moshi, there are apartments and houses that often come with modern amenities like electricity and air conditioning
Tanzania is a country with a rich culture and traditions Music and dance are important to Tanzanians, and there are many different styles practiced, such as taarab music ngoma dance and bongo f w
Tanzania is a country with a young population, with more than half of the population under the age of 25 Primary education is compulsory for children between the ages of 7 and 13 and covers basic skills such as reading, writing, and arithmetic, as well as elementary sciences, social studies, and arts and crafts There are both public and private primary schools in Tanzania, but the vast majority of schools are public
After primary education, students can choose to continue to secondary education at high school, where they follow a more structured curriculum with an emphasis on academic skills such as language, mathematics, sciences, and social studies There are also vocational schools available for students who wish to learn a trade
After high school, students can enroll in a t rogram at a higher secondary enhance their academic skills e for higher education or the t. Higher secondary schools academic disciplines such as mathematics, humanities, and nces.
cation in Tanzania is provided ties and colleges and typically to five years, depending on the am
Most universities in Tanzania are public institutions, but there are also private universities available Popular fields of study include medicine, engineering, business administration, and education.
Education in Tanzania faces several challenges, such as a lack of funding, inadequate infrastructure and resources, and a shortage of trained teachers. Nevertheless, the Tanzanian government is committed to improving the education system and increasing access to quality education for all Tanzanians
“Education is not a way of escaping poverty, but a way of fighting it.” - Julius Nyerere
A safari often takes you through several game parks or, as they are called here in Tanzania, national parks. Typically, you might visit two, three, or four parks during a safari vacation. The parks vary in size and each has its own characteristics. For example, Lake Manyara can be explored in a day, whereas you could easily spend a week wandering around the Serengeti. Nowhere else in the world will you find a higher concentration of national parks than in (northern) Tanzania.
In Tanzania, it is very unusual, if not impossible, to travel without a safari guide. You will therefore be on the road with a guide for several days. For this reason, we place great importance on our guides and continuously invest in their training and education. A good guide has an excellent knowledge of flora and fauna, speaks good English, is an excellent and safe driver, and possesses strong social skills.
“You know you are truly alive when you’re living among lions.”
-Karen Blixen
On the day your safari vacation begins, your guide will pick you up from your accommodation. You will meet him and the vehicle in which you will be spending some time. It’s a four-wheel-drive Toyota Land Cruiser. The vehicle has a large popup roof, allowing you to stand inside and easily photograph or film from above. Then, the safari vacation can begin... You drive to the first national park. At the gate, your guide will handle the paperwork, including the necessary payments. Once through the gate, the safari truly begins. Get ready for an amazing experience!
In large numbers, you will see various types of antelopes, as well as zebras, wildebeests, and elephants. Buffaloes, hippos, and giraffes will also be part of the spectacle. You’ll certainly have ample opportunities to observe and photograph these animals. Encounters with the king of the beasts, the lion, are less frequent in the smaller parks, but in the Serengeti and the Ngorongoro Crater, you will see plenty. Rarer are the leopard, cheetah, and rhinoceros. Spotting these animals requires a true "spotter's eye," but you will quickly develop that skill! Your guide will assist you in this. When you first spot a leopard high in a tree up close, it will be an indescribable sensation.
During a safari, you usually spend each night in a different place. On longer safaris, you might stay several days at one location. It’s often a mix of tented camps and lodges—some nights adventurous and others luxurious. Some lodges have a swimming pool. You can relax by reading, gazing over the savannas, or enjoying the evening by the fire. What unites the lodges is the special safari atmosphere that you won’t find anywhere else in the world and that you will never forget.
How you spend the following days will be discussed with your guide. You’ll meet during or after dinner at the lodge. Some people like to invite the guide to join them for dinner. That’s possible but not required. If you prefer to dine privately, that’s perfectly fine. The guides also enjoy spending time together among themselves. In all lodges, they have excellent drivers and accommodations available.
For a day in a wildlife park, you can choose whether you want to spend the entire day with a picnic lunch or if you prefer to schedule two game drives—one in the morning and one in the afternoon. Your guide will often encourage you to start very early in the morning to catch the sunrise (usually around 6:15 AM) and the first hours of the day. These are the times when wildlife is most active, and the light is perfect for photography —this is known as the “magic light.” The end of the day is also stunning, with the “magic light” around five o'clock. Then it’s time to say goodbye to the animals, as most parks only allow driving from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM. After that, the wildlife is given complete rest. This is how this paradise on Earth is preserved.
At night, you’ll sleep soundly! You’ll be tired from the exciting day, the heat, and driving on the bumpy roads. The fantastic bedding in all the lodges and the sounds of the African night will lull you into a delightful dream. And who knows, that dream might be about the breakfast waiting for you the next day. Besides the famous full English breakfast, there’s always the renowned Tanzanian fruit: mango, papaya, watermelon, and avocado. It’s not uncommon for breakfast conversations to revolve around the animal sounds heard during the night. Were they lions? Elephants? Hyenas? Another day is about to come….
For safari newcomers, the terminology can be confusing. Don’t worry, this dictionary contains the essential terms from the safari world!
Savannah
Sundowner
Pole pole
Hakuna Matata
A vehicle trip where you search for wildlife.
A picnic-style breakfast served in the bush at a special outdoor location, surrounded by the sounds and smells of nature.
The annual migration of wildebeests, zebras, and other hoofed animals between Kenya and Tanzania.
An open grassland with scattered trees, a characteristic landscape of Africa.
A drink enjoyed at sunset, often in the wild during a safari.
"Pole pole" means to proceed slowly and steadily during travel, such as on a safari or mountain hike. It can also convey reassurance or indicate that patience and careful attention are required.
A Swahili expression that became popular through the film "The Lion King," meaning " no worries" or "don't worry" in English. African massage
Humorously used to refer to the rough and bumpy ride on unpaved roads in the jeep.
Some things are worth waking up early for, and this is definitely one of them! A balloon safari in Serengeti National Park. Going on safari in Tanzania is already incredibly special, but seeing the Serengeti come to life from a hot air balloon is an extraordinarily unique experience. Let yourself be carried by the wind and experience the most fantastic views above the Serengeti. It will make your holiday unforgettable!
Even before the birds wake up, early in the morning, you'll depart from your accommodation to the hot air balloon launch site. The ride is still dark, and you might even catch a glimpse of one of the more elusive Serengeti inhabitants in the headlights during this nocturnal game drive. If not, Hakuna Matata, because once you're in the hot air balloon, you'll be amazed by the variety of wildlife you can admire from the sky.
Arriving at the location, you'll meet the crew. The pilot will give an important safety briefing before your balloon flight, while the crew inflates the hot air balloon. Then it’s time to take off. You climb into the basket and prepare to start your morning adventure. Watching the sun rise and the plains awaken is a magical experience.
With a small group, you'll embark on a balloon flight over the Serengeti for about an hour. Enjoy the impressions left by the vast plains and the audible silence during your balloon safari. You’ll decide your altitude with the pilot. Sometimes you’ll fly lower to get a good view of the animals, other times you’ll soar to about 1000
$590 ,pp
meters to fully enjoy the panoramic views. Approximately an hour after taking off, the hot air balloon will return to the Serengeti plains. But the experience isn’t over yet… After landing, you’ll enjoy a luxurious and generous breakfast at elegantly set tables in the heart of Serengeti National Park. There’s truly nothing like a breakfast served under the expansive canopy of an acacia tree in the middle of the Serengeti. Tropical fruit and freshly baked bread, made even more delightful by the location. You'll be served a glass of champagne and dine with silver
If you have a fear of heights, a hot air balloon ride might be a challenge, but from experience, I can say it's possible to manage! Since a balloon ride is relatively slow and stable, it can feel less intimidating compared to flying in an airplane or helicopter Additionally, the balloon’s basket is large and stable, which can make you feel less like you’re at a high altitude.
If you have a fear of heights but still want to experience a balloon ride, here are some steps you can take to prepare:
Talk to the Pilot and Other Professionals: Discuss your concerns with the pilot and the crew involved in the balloon ride.
Focus on the View and Floating Sensation: Try to concentrate on the beautiful scenery and the sensation of floating in the air, rather than the height itself.
Well,you'regoingonasafari,andwhatclothesshouldyoubring?Duringthesafari,it'snicetowear clothingthatiscomfortableforlongdaysinthecar,providesprotectionagainstthesunandinsects,and blendsinwiththeenvironment Itdoesn'tallhavetobeofficial'outdoorsurvivalgear'Wehaveafewtips, butyourownsummerclotheswillprobablygetyouquitefar!
LIGHT, BREATHABLE CLOTHING
Optforclothingmadefromlight, breathablematerialssuchascottonor linen.Avoidsyntheticmaterials,asthey donotbreatheandcanmakeyoufeel warm
PROTECT YOURSELF FROM THE SUN
Besuretowearahatorcapto shieldyourfaceandhead Ifyou havesensitiveskin,alsowear long-sleevedclothingandlong pantstoprotectyourskinfrom thesun.
Itcanbechillyinthemorningsand eveningsonsafari,somakesureto bringasweater,jacket,and/orvestto keepwarm
Optforclothinginneutralcolorssuchas beige,khaki,brown,andgreen Avoid brightcolors,astheycanstartlewildlife Additionally,safaricolorslookgreatin photosagainstthelandscapes.
Wearclosed-toeshoestoprotect yourfeetfrominsectsandpests whenyougetoutofthejeep You canwearsandalsorflip-flopsback atthelodge,butclosedshoesare moresuitableforsafari
Ifindathinscarforshawlveryuseful.I useittoprotectagainstthecold morningwindyoufeelwhenyouhave yourheadoutofthejeep.Anda headbandhelpskeepmyhairoutofmy face
In the vast Serengeti, the annual migration reveals an epic scene of life and survival. Millions of hoofed animals trek across the golden savannah, making the Serengeti a vibrant symbol of eternal motion and untamed wilderness.
The Serengeti is one of the most famous safari parks in Tanzania and owes its name to the Maasai word ‘Siringitu,’ which means ‘endless plains.’ The Serengeti is located along the Rift Valley and covers an area of 14,763 square kilometers One-third of the park consists of grasslands. Additionally, the park features notable 'Kopjes,' which are hills of large boulders that have emerged due to erosion Around the Kopjes, there is often more vegetation, which attracts more wildlife and bird species.
The park is renowned for its abundance of leopards, cheetahs,
lions, and other big cats. While in smaller safari parks (like Tarangire) or more remote parks (such as Ruaha and Selous) you might have to search for hours to find a lion, in Serengeti Park, they are more easily spotted, and the animals are often unbothered by the presence of safari jeeps. What also makes a Serengeti safari popular are the vast plains and the stunning sunsets, with African acacia trees silhouetted against the horizon. However, the Serengeti is perhaps most famous for its migration (the Great Migration), where millions of wildebeest, zebras, and other herbivores traverse the plains in a spectacular natural event.
In search of water and green grass to survive Face to face with thousands of wildebeests and zebras during their annual incredible journey.
The migration essentially takes place year-round, but it is always in a different location. There are two major highlights: the annual river crossing in August in northern Serengeti, and the "calving season, " which occurs around late January to early February in Ndutu, south of the Serengeti. However, even outside these peak times, it's possible to experience part of the Great Migration. The park is so vast, and each day on safari offers a unique wildlife experience.
“Wilderness
gave us knowledge. Wilderness made us human. We came from here. Perhaps that is why so many of us feel a strong bond to this land called Serengeti; it is the land of our youth.”
-Boyd Norton
The Big Five is a commonly heard term in the safari world. It refers to the following five animals:
1 The elephant, giant of gentleness, brings the wilderness to life with its thoughtful eyes and calm strength.
2 The buffalo, unyielding sentinel of the horizon, moves with determination and reverence through the lush grasslands.
3
4
The rhinoceros, horn of resilience, guards the wilderness like an ancient warrior, its majestic form imbued with the weight of survival.
5
The lion, ruler of the searing plains, paints the savannah with its regal charisma and mighty roars
The leopard, dancer of the dusk, scatters its spotted enchantment in the nocturnal jungle, a master of the art of mystery and speed.
The term "Big Five" isn't related to the size of the animals. Originally, the Big Five is a hunting term. It is an honorary title for the five animals on the African continent that are the most dangerous to hunt. What these animals have in common is that they choose to attack when they feel threatened, especially if they have been wounded, unlike other animals that would typically try to flee in such situations. Fortunately, it is no longer intended to hunt these animals today. People are generally
The elephant is almost a prehistoric creature, mainly due to its enormous size. The African elephant already weighs more than a hundred kilograms at birth and can eventually reach up to six thousand kilograms and nearly four meters in height. The elephant is so heavy that it has to sleep standing up and cannot jump over the smallest obstacle. Elephants are peaceful, but if they feel threatened, they can charge at their attacker with their enormous ears flared out. These ears are quite special because the elephant sweats through them. At the end of its trunk, it has two movable ‘fingers’ with which it can do as much as a person with ten fingers. The tusks are made of ivory. Whether the elephant should be happy about this is highly questionable, as thousands of elephants have tragically lost their lives due to the ivory trade. Human greed knows no bounds. Fortunately, there are still many beautiful elephants to be seen in the wild in Tanzania. If you go on safari, you are guaranteed to see them.
The rhinoceros is the second-largest land animal and still reminiscent of dinosaurs. Despite their enormous weight of up to three thousand kilograms, they can run as fast as a horse. They live in family groups of three or four animals, leisurely roaming the savannahs in search of grass. he Asian rhinoceros has one horn, while the African
The lion is the only big cat that lives and hunts in groups. The male, with his impressive mane, is the true macho of the pride. He can roar extremely loudly, and you will likely hear it at night during a safari. Lions are essentially lazy, spending nearly twenty hours a day sleeping and resting. Despite their proud and tough appearance, they are quite feminist. The leader of the pride is always a female. The lionesses are also the ones who hunt and care for the young. The cubs are adorable and live alone with their mother for the first three months, away from the rest of the pride. When they are three years old, the young males are chased away by the dominant male. They then attempt to take the place of the dominant male in another pride. It's a tough learning process on the way to adulthood. There are many lions in Tanzania, and encounters at a safe distance are quite likely.
The leopard is a true acrobat. It spends most of its time in trees, where it surveys its territory, which can be as large as one hundred square kilometers. As evening falls, it descends from the tree to hunt, with gazelles and baboons on the menu. It has few enemies; only lions, hyenas, and large baboons dare to attack it. And humans, who hunt it for its fur. Fortunately, this is increasingly recognized as a crime. When a female is ready to mate, she secretes a special urine to attract males. Naturally, this leads to a fierce competition, with only one able to win. Four months later, the female gives birth to her cubs. As with many animals, single-parent families are quite common. Leopards are hard to spot, but your Makasa guide has a trained eye for them. Seeing a leopard remains a special and thrilling experience.
the horns can span more than a meter. Moreover, they do not hesitate to use them; buffaloes kill more hunters than any other animal in Africa. Despite repeated efforts, humans have never managed to domesticate buffaloes, not even by crossbreeding them with other cattle. Apart from humans, buffaloes have no natural enemies.
On Top of the Crater Rim: The Most Stunning View Ever
In our safari vehicle, we drive from the town of Karatu towards the Serengeti Naturally, we pass through the Ngorongoro Conservation Area We enter the area at Lodoare Gate and then ascend steeply through dense mountain forests to the T-junction at Heroes Point Here, we catch our first glimpse of the crater, but those simple words hardly do justice to the experience. Superlatives are more fitting At the top of the crater rim, it can be quite chilly. We’ve also encountered some misty conditions Nonetheless, you can usually enjoy a complete view of the crater, which spans 18 km in diameter and covers an area of 260 km²
The steep crater wall is over 600 meters high at its highest point From above, the animals are not visible without binoculars, but the interplay of light with the shadows of the swiftly moving clouds can be mesmerizing The gently rolling grasslands take on a magical quality The color palette features endless shades of blue and, especially, green These are soft tones, as if you ’ re looking at a watercolor painting Prince Bernhard considered this to be the most beautiful sight he had ever seen
Before we descend into the crater, a brief piece of history: the Ngorongoro, formed by the tectonic shifts that also created the Rift Valley, was once as high as, or possibly even higher than, the
Kilimanjaro. About three million years ago, the mountain erupted, covering the Serengeti with ash and causing the crater floor to sink into the mountain The rim of the crater is at an altitude of 2,285 meters, and the Ngorongoro Crater is the largest intact caldera (bowl-shaped crater) in the world Since 1978, Ngorongoro has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site
To the Garden of Eden
At Heroes Point, we turn left and continue along the crater rim This is the route to Serengeti and Olduvai Here, we also find several lodges, including the famous Crater Lodge, one of the world’s most luxurious safari accommodations To our right, we first encounter the road that ascends from the crater, and a bit later, the road that descends Both are oneway streets. The roads are simply too narrow to handle traffic in both directions, partly due to the relative congestion
Once down in the crater, 30,000 wild animals await us
The Ngorongoro Crater is one of the most densely populated wildlife areas in the world Since the area is enclosed and the flat crater floor is mostly open grassland, it is easy to manage, resulting in a haven for endangered species, including the black rhino Almost all animals are represented in the crater except for giraffes and impalas The prey species include mainly wildebeests, zebras, and buffalo Due to the open nature of the area, the chance of witnessing a hunt here is slightly higher than elsewhere, though luck is still a factor
In the southwest of the crater lies Lake Magadi, a large, shallow soda lake home to hippos, flamingos, and other water birds. These animals are also found in the Mandusi Swamp The Lerai Forest, with its fever trees, is the best place to view elephants
At the end of the afternoon, around six o ’clock, when the light is at its most beautiful, our Land Cruiser slowly climbs out of the crater. We’re ready for a shower but also enriched by an unforgettable experience.
Is a safari in Tanzania just a matter of sitting in the safari jeep and ticking off items? Giraffe, check. Elephant, check. Big Five, check? You might think so beforehand, but the more we go on safari ourselves, the more we truly "experience" it. Immerse yourself in the adventure; taste the atmosphere, feel, smell, hear, and see. Become one with nature.
Experiencing more on safari doesn’t necessarily mean seeing more animals in numbers but being present during your safari, fully immersing yourself in your surroundings and absorbing everything around you Truly experiencing it! Since there are a few things that can help make your safari extra special, we have some tips:
Sleeping in? Forget it! You can start your safari game drive as early as 6:00 AM in a national park, so take advantage of that Head out with a picnic breakfast and coffee, initially in the dark, but soon you’ll see the African sun rise. This creates the most beautiful landscapes. Plus, most predators are active at this time. I hear you thinking... it's vacation, right? Don’t worry, this early rising doesn’t have to be a daily routine.
Of course, it’s fantastic to see a lot of wildlife, search for the Big Five, witness the great migration, or watch a lioness hunting. But most importantly, release your expectations. In nature, you have little control. Let the safari experience unfold naturally. Both big and small events become interesting when you take in your surroundings calmly What does the wildlife have in store for you today?
Do you really want to witness thrilling action? Perhaps the perfect shot of a leopard leaping from a tree or the famous wildebeest river crossing? Take your time and be patient. This will be rewarded We often stop the jeep for an hour in one spot. While you ‘wait’ for what you hope to see, listen to the sounds and chat with the guide about everything around you… And then, suddenly
A daypack is essential on safari. By daypack, we mean a bag or backpack that you carry with you at all times. The suitcase stays at the accommodation or is left behind in the jeep on travel days. Keep the daypack with you in the front of the jeep. It should contain your valuables as well as everything you want to keep easily accessible while you’re on the move.
Tanzanite is a relatively unknown, purple-blue gemstone found exclusively in Tanzania Specifically, it is located in the Merelani Hills near Moshi and Arusha. And, as luck would have it, that’s exactly the region where we live!
Tanzanite is a relatively unknown purple-blue gemstone found exclusively in Tanzania. Specifically, it is located in the Merelani Hills near Moshi and Arusha, the exact region where we live!
The Tanzanians have known about the stone for much longer, as it was formed over 550 million years ago at the base of Mount Kilimanjaro. However, the official discovery is attributed to Indian prospector Manuel de Souza In 1967, he, along with Maasai warrior Ali Juuyawatu, found the stone, initially mistaking it for sapphire Later, the Tanzanite was described by the German Geological Society as a variety of zoisite Its greatest fame came from Elizabeth Taylor, who favored the gemstone in her jewelry Literature mentions a cut stone of 122 7 carats and a tanzanite cat’s-eye of over 200 carats Tanzanites are used in various jewelry forms, and their color can sometimes be enhanced by heating to 400-500 degrees Celsius
Due to the limited mining area, Tanzanite is one of the rarest gemstones in the world It is even claimed to be a thousand times rarer than diamond Reports suggest that the supply of Tanzanite may be completely depleted within ten to fifteen years This combination of factors makes Tanzanite one of the most cherished and sought-after gemstones globally
Tanzanite is trichroic, meaning that a rough Tanzanite stone can display three different colors purple, blue, and red depending on the viewing angle. Once cut and polished, the stone’s color can range from vivid violet to bright blue and deep, royal indigo.
Just as the International Gemological Institute of America assesses the value of diamonds based on the 4 Cs, the Tanzanite International Grading System evaluates Tanzanite based on color, clarity, cut, and carat. The higher the combination of these aspects, the rarer and more valuable the stone.
color ranging from blue to violet.
The intensity of the color ranges from Exceptional to Pale, indicated with a ‘B’ or ‘V’, marking how dominant the color blue or violet is The more intense the color, the rarer and more valuable the Tanzanite is
Clarity: The assessment of natural flaws and impurities.
The clarity value of Tanzanite ranges from Eye Clean to Heavily Included (Included means that the crystals have a darker appearance rather than a clear one) The fewer imperfections, the more valuable the Tanzanite
Cut: Proportions and brilliance.
An Excellent cut means that the facets of the stone reflect light in a way that maximizes its brilliance The more precisely a jeweler cuts a Tanzanite, the more valuable the stone becomes
Carat: Refers to the unit in which the stone is weighed.
One carat equals 100 points and weighs onefifth of a gram. Two Tanzanite stones that appear similar can have different carat weights if they vary in depth
Mount Kilimanjaro is known as the highest mountain in Africa. What makes Kilimanjaro particularly special is not only its height of 5,895 meters but also the unique environment in which the mountain is situated. Kilimanjaro is one of the few mountains in the world located near the equator, which results in a wide range of climate zones, from tropical rainforests to icy glaciers.
Furthermore, Mount Kilimanjaro is a volcano that formed over half a million years ago, and its summit remains active.
Kilimanjaro also boasts a rich ecology, serving as a habitat for various plant and animal species, including the endangered Kilimanjaro monkeys. It’s no surprise that Kilimanjaro is a popular destination for climbers and nature enthusiasts from around the globe.
5895 meters
Mount Kilimanjaro is renowned as the highest mountain in Africa, and also holds the title of the highest "free-standing" mountain in the world.
Despite its location near the equator, Kilimanjaro is renowned for its eternal snow and ice caps at the summit—a unique sight in this tropical part of the world.
Exploring Kilimanjaro's summit glaciers is fascinating, but warming temperatures and reduced snowfall threaten their existence. It's a race to enjoy them before they vanish.
It has been over 360,000 years since Kilimanjaro's last volcanic eruption, so there is no current threat of an eruption.
Swahili, also known as Kiswahili, is a Bantu language spoken in East Africa, primarily in
Tanzania, Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, Mozambique, and Congo. It is the native language of about 510 million people and is spoken as a second language by an additional 100 million people. Swahili is a creole language that emerged from the interaction between the Bantuspeaking people and Arab traders along the East African coast during the medieval period. The language includes many Arabic loanwords and has also been influenced by Portuguese, English, and German.
Swahili is one of the official languages of Tanzania and
Kenya. It has a relatively simple grammar and phonetic spelling making it easier to learn than many other African languages. The language also boasts a rich literary and musical history, contributing significantly to the development of modern African literature and music.
Tanzanians appreciate it when you make an effort to speak a few words or phrases in Swahili. The extensive greeting ritual practiced in Tanzania is a great way to start. Politeness is highly valued, and greetings often involve detailed inquiries about each other's well-being, with a lot of repetition. Our guides also enjoy helping with practicing a few smooth Swahili phrases, and there’s ample time for this in the vehicle.
In Tanzania, "Jambo" is the most common greeting It is widely used from morning to evening when greeting friends, family, visitors, and strangers It is a combination of "Hujambo?" (How are you?) and "Sijambo" (I am fine). It can mean "hello," "good morning," "good day," etc The response to "Jambo" is "Jambo", and to "Hujambo?" it is "Sijambo". "Habari gani?" (What is the news? or How are you?) is also used after "Jambo", or even instead of it. As mentioned, Swahili has a tradition of extensive greetings
Here's an example:
Amina: Hujambo Tatu?
Tatu: Sijambo, habari gani?
Amina: Nzuri tu, habari za nyumbani?
Tatu: Nzuri, habari za watoto?
Amina: Nzuri, habari za bibi na shangazi?
Tatu: Nzuri.
The meaning of this dialogue is as follows: Amina asks "Hujambo?" (How are you?), and Tatu responds "Sijambo!" (I am fine) They then inquire about each other's family members, and as usual, they answer with "Nzuri" (Good)
"Hodi" is another form of greeting used by visitors to announce their arrival before entering a house. It is also used to make your way through a crowded area, similar to knocking on a door. When someone says "Hodi", the response is "Karibu" (welcome). To ensure you can enter, wait for "Karibu" or "Karibu ndani!" (Come in). If there are multiple visitors, the response will be "Karibuni". Once inside, you might hear "Karibu kiti" (Would you like to sit?), and the appropriate response is "Asante" (Thank you).
Here are some other commonly heard Swahili phrases:
Polepole: Take it easy / Slowly
Kwa heri: Goodbye
Tutaonana: See you again
Lala salama: Sleep well
Safari njema: Have a good trip
Hamna shida: No problem
Hakuna matata: No worries
Zanzibar is an island in the Indian Ocean, located about 40 kilometers east of the Tanzanian coast The island boasts a rich history and culture, and is a popular tourist destination due to its stunning beaches, historic architecture, and unique Swahili culture
Zanzibar has a fascinating history The island was a significant trading post along the Swahili Coast and h b influenced over the centuries b Persians, Portuguese, and Britis influences are still evident architecture, cuisine, and culture
One of Zanzibar's highlights stunning beaches The island miles of white sandy shores and clear turquoise waters, lined w trees. Popular beaches include Kendwa, Paje, and Jambiani
Discover the magic of Zanzibar, where history whispers through the narrow alleys of Stone Town
Stone Town is Zanzibar's city listed as UNESCO World Heritage site Here Zanzibar's rich history remain palpable The old town was a majo trading hub between East Africa, Asia and Africa, with spices, ivory, an slaves being popular exports. The cit features narrow streets, colorfu markets, and mosques
es old Arab houses ooden doors and ctions include the old Palace, and the Transport is limited or motorbiking, as r the narrow streets
From Stone Town, you can take a boat to Prison Island The island features a prison built in 1883, which was only used as a quarantine station You can also admire giant tortoises on the island, which were a gift from the Seychelles around 1820.
The tortoises were brought to Prison r their protection On the island, a small beach where you can nd there are opportunities for ng and snorkeling close to the
o one of the spice plantations es you back in time When the arrived in Zanzibar, they ed large spice plantations, Zanzibar the largest exporter of uring that period A guide will y into the interior, where you can experience unique aromas and delightful flavors. You can smell and taste spices such as ginger, turmeric, nutmeg vanilla black pepper and e l e
From the beaches, you can set out on the water with a dhow, a traditional sailboat that has been used for centuries to transport cargo between Zanzibar and the Arabian Gulf Now, the boat is equipped with a sunshade, snorkeling gear, and a ladder, making it easy to get in and out of the water. Relax and enjoy the gentle breeze and the crystal-clear blue water Occasionally, you'll stop at one of the beautiful sandbanks that emerge during low tide
Add adventure to your Zanzibar trip with horseback rides from the Zanzibar Horse Club, suitable for all levels, including beginners Explore the enchanting beauty of Nungwi's beaches on the northern side of the village during beach rides, sunset adventures, and even swimming with the horses at high tide Experience the unique thrill of galloping along Nungwi’s coastline
Experience the charm of Zanz two wheels with a family-frien tour through Makunduchi, the second-largest village Pedal wooded areas, taste fresh fru mango trees, and admire red cl Discover spots where locals charcoal, pass by the local sch enjoy the relaxed atmosphere villagers gather Ride through and nature, and experience a Zanzibar in a unique way
Another great tip is to dine at The Rock
This restaurant is located in a truly unique spot it's built on a rock in the sea off the coast of Michanwi Pingwe Beach in Zanzibar The menu is simple but delicious, and the location alone makes it well worth a visit Enjoy lunch or dinner in the middle of the crystalclear ocean and take in the stunning views. Reservations are recommended!
In short, Zanzibar is a beautiful island with a rich history, unique culture, and stunning beaches For many people, a stay on one of the islands is a delightful and relaxing conclusion to an active safari
Did you know that Freddie Mercury (Queen) was born in Zanzibar? The house where he grew up is now a museum dedicated to his life and music The museum features Mercury's personal belongings and some of his most famous outfits, offering visitors a fascinating glimpse into the life of the legendary singer
