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Tirsdag 28 Juli 2009 - Arusha
Tanzania safaris, wildlife safaris,adventure tours, camel safaris,horse back riding,walking safaris

African Safaris scenic beauty wild land.Tanzania wildlife safari viewing tours in Tanzania Northern Circuit. Luxury and budget safari lodges and hotels in Tanzania.Camping safari for people who need to be closer to nature.

On arrival at Kilimanjaro Airport (JRO) we transfer you to Arusha for overnight at Hotel/Lodge.

7DAYS/6NIGHTS: LAKE MANYARA, OLDUVAI GORGE/SERENGETI/NGORONGORO/TARANGIRE/MAASAI cultural tourism

Day 01:After breakfast, with picnic lunch, drive to Lake Manyara via Maasai village. The Park derives its name from the Maasai word"manyara," which is the name for the plant Euphorbia tirucalli. The Maasai use this plant to grow livestock stockades. Eventually manyara will produce a stockproof hedge which is more durable than any made of cut thorn branches. The types of vegetation which occur in the Park are related to the geology of the area. The northern part of the Park, nearest the entrance, is composed mainly of volcanic rock which, being porous, allows many streams of clear water to flow out of the base of the rift wall. Further south, around Msasa River, the volcanic rock gives way to ancient crystalline rock, which is hard and non-porous allowing fewer springs and streams to emerge. Those that do — the Ndala, Bagayo and Endabash — cascade down the entire face of the wall when flowing. Despite the fact Lake Manyara National Park is only 330 square kilometers (127 square miles) in area — of which about 230 square kilometers (89 square miles) are lake — it contains a large variety of habitats: the rift wall, the ground water forest, acacia woodland, areas of open grassland, the lake shore, swamp and the lake itself. Due to the variety of habitats the Park is able to support a large number of species. Over 380 species of birds, some migratory, have been recorded in the Park. Game drives in the park till evening. Dinner and overnight at the Luxury Tented Lodge or Serena Hotel/Lodge.

Day 02: After breakfast drive to the Great Serengeti National Park with lunch and game drives en route. Going to Serengeti you pass via Ngorongoro Crater. Serengeti is a home to lion,
leopard, Elephant, Cheetah, Buffalo, Zebra, Wildebeest, Eland, Wild dog,
Gazelles, Crocs and more. There are also lot of birds includes the Eurasia migrants. Serengeti National Parks is also mentioned as one of the Current Tourist Seventh Wonders of the World.

On arrival in Serengeti get lunch and proceed with game viewing around Seronera or Eastwards, dinner and overnight in Luxury Tented Lodge or Serena Hotel/Lodge.

Day 03: Full day in Serengeti National Park, Breakfast, then half day game
viewing in Lobo area where you will have your hot lunch before you drive back to Seronera the center of Serengeti. Proceed with game viewing around Seronera or Eastwards, dinner and overnight in Luxury Tented Lodge or Serena Hotel/Lodge.

Day 04: Full day in Serengeti National Park, Breakfast, then half day game
viewing in Lobo area where you will have your hot lunch before you drive back to Seronera the center of Serengeti. Proceed with game viewing around Seronera or Eastwards, dinner and overnight in Luxury Tented Lodge or Serena Hotel/Lodge.

Day 05: After breakfast depart from Serengeti – Ngorongoro Crater Rim. Drive with picnic lunch boxes and game viewing enroute to Ngorongoro Crater. All the BIG FIVE Rhino Lion, Leopard, Buffalo and Elephant live in this wonderful caldera, others are Zebra, Hippo, Wildebeest, Hyena and more…Birds includes flamingos on the Soda lake, Geese, Storks, Vultures and more…Proceed with game drives in the Crater, lunch will be served in the picnic site in the Crater at Ngoitoktok swamp a Hippo pool. In Evening ascend to the Crater rim. Relax and have Dinner and overnight in Luxury Tented Lodge or Serena Hotel/Lodge.

Day 06: Proceed with game drives up to lunch time, after lunch you can do some walking safaris or cultural tours (visit maasai bomas).Then drive to Tarangire National Park for Dinner and overnight at Tarangire Safari Lodge or Sopa Lodge.

Day 07: After breakfast, start game drives in Tarangire National Park. Tarangire National Park covers approximately 2600 square kilometers and, in the dry season, is second only to Ngorongoro Crater Conservation Area in concentrations of wildlife. Tarangire lies to the south of the large, open grass plains of southern Maasailand, and derives its name from the Tarangire River, which provides permanent water for wildlife in the area.The park is spectacular in the dry season when many of the migratory wildlife species come back to the permanent waters of Tarangire River. Huge herds of wildebeest, zebras, elephants, eland and oryx gather to stay in Tarangire until the onset of the rains when they migrate again to good grazing areas. After lunch drive back to Arusha. And Overnight at the Hotel/Lodge.

Walking safari in Tarangire can be done.

OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES IN SERENGETI.

Cultural Tour/Hike in Karatu area: Visit elephant caves, see waterfalls, birds, local native tribes (Iraqw), local market, and orphanage
• Walking safari in Ngorongoro Conservation Area (Lemagruti) with ranger
• Drive to Olmoti Crater (Munge Waterfalls) for afternoon hiking (2 hour drive one-way)
• Drive to Empakai Crater for afternoon hiking (3-hour drive one-way)
• Rest at hotel
• Full-day game drive in the Ngorongoro Crater,
Between the Serengeti and the Ngorongoro Crater, there are a few optional activities:
• Olduvai Gorge (no charge)
• Visit a Maasai village (No charge)
• Snake Park (No charge)

Tanzania travel tips, any safari information about Tanzania send us email

info@kili-tanzanitesafaris.com

kili2tanzanite@gmail.com
Tirsdag 16 Juni 2009 - Moshi
Climbing mount kilimanjaro expeditions in Tanzania.

Machame route is most scenic route and challenging. With professionally trained Mountain Guides and experience, kilimanjaro climbing trip is always success.

Machame-Go for trekking via Whisky route

Duration: 6 Days.
Total hiking distance: About 100 km.

This is probably the most beautiful route up Kilimanjaro. All your equipment and supplies are portered and a cook prepares all your meals. Where accommodation on the Marangu route is in huts, the Machame route offers strictly tents only. This makes Machame (also referred to as the "Whiskey route") better suited to the slightly more adventurous hiker, rewarding him with a scenic splendor such as not seen on the Marangu route. From late afternoon sunsets at Shira, to the misty revelations of Kibo at the great Barranco Wall, the Machame route offers the adventurous hiker a stunning scenic "slide show" over 6 days. The Machame route is normally completed in a minimum of 6 days. .

There is an added benefit to this, as you are afforded the most valuable commodity on the mountain - acclimatisation. The Machame route takes you high to Lava Tower (4630m) on the day 3 and brings you down by nearly 700m for an overnight at Barranco camp (3950m). This is the secret to successful acclimatisation.

6 day Itinerary for the Machame route.
The Machame route can also be completed in 5 days. On day 3 on the itinerary below, you go directly to Kibo with an overnight at the Arrow Glacier camp, with your final summating attempt on day 4. An extremely physically and mentally demanding option, not recommended for the average climber.

Day 1: Machame Gate (1490m) - Machame camp (2980m).
Hiking time: 7 hours.
Distance: About 18 km's.
Habitat: Montane forest.
Your day starts early with a briefing, followed by breakfast and a 45-minute drive from Moshi (910m) to the Machame village (1490m). The guides and porters prepare and pack the supplies and your equipment in the village. You will receive a lunch pack and you can also buy mineral water in the village. Depending on the condition of the road, it is possible to drive from the village to the Machame gate, but if not, the muddy 3 km walk will take about 1 hour to complete. After registering at the gate office, you start your ascent and enter the rain forest almost immediately. There is a strong possibility of rain in the forest, which will transform the trail into a very soggy, muddy and slippery experience. You will have a welcome lunch stop about half way and will reach the Machame camping area in the late afternoon.
Your porters (arriving at the camp site long before you) will have erected your tent on your arrival. In the evening the porters will boil drinking and washing water and the cook will prepare dinner, before you retire to your tent for the night. Night temperatures can already drop to freezing point at this campsite..
Day 2: Machame camp (2980m) - Shira camp (3840m).

Hiking time: 6 hours
.
Distance: About 9 km's.
Habitat: Moorland.

You rise early at Machame camp and after breakfast you climb an hour or so to the top of the forest and then for 2 hours at a gentler gradient through the moorland zone. After a short lunch and rest, you continue up a rocky ridge onto the Shira plateau. By now you will be able to see in an easterly direction, the Western Breach with its stunning glaciers. You are now due west of Kibo and after a short hike you will reach the Shira campsite at 3 840m. The porters will boil drinking and washing water, before serving dinner. The night at this exposed camp will even be colder than the previous night, with temperatures dropping to well below freezing.
Day 3: Shira (3840m) - Lava Tower (4630m)-Barranco camp (3950m).
Hiking time: 7 hours
.
Distance: About 15 km's.

Habitat: Semi desert.
The route now turns east into a semi desert and rocky landscape surrounding Lava Tower, where you reach an altitude of 4630m after about a 5 hours walk. Lunch is served in a designated area before ascending the rocky scree path to Lava Tower (4630m). Definitely, the toughest day so far. It is normally around this point, where for the first time, some climbers will start to feel symptoms of breathlessness, irritability and headaches. After lunch you descent again by almost 680m to the Barranco camping area and after reaching the high altitude of 4600m at Lava Tower, the true acclimatisation benefit of this day becomes clear. This descent to Barranco camp takes about 2 hours and offers great opportunities to take some beautiful photographs of the Western Breach and Breach Wall. The camp is situated in a valley below the Breach and Great Barranco Wall, which should provide you with a memorable sunset while you wait for the preparation of your dinner.

Day 4: Barranco camp (3950m) - Barafu camp (4550m).

Hiking time: 7 hours.

Distance: About 13 km's.

Habitat: Alpine desert .
After spending a night at the Great Barranco Wall (a very imposing sight at first), you make your way up this awesome looking obstacle, which in the end normally turns out easier than what you anticipated. Topping out just below the Heim Glacier, you now appreciate just how beautiful Kilimanjaro really is. The route then heads down through the Karanga Valley over intervening ridges and valleys, and then joins up with the Mweka route. This is the preferred route down from the summit, so remember it. Turn left up the ridge and after another hour or so, you reach Barafu Hut.
The last water stop on the route is the Karranga Valley, as there is no water at Barafu camp. Barafu is the Swahili word for "ice" and it is a bleak and inhospitable camping area to spend the night. Totally exposed to the ever-present gales the tents are pitched on a narrow, stony, and dangerous ridge. Make sure that you familiarise yourself with the terrain before dark to avoid any accidents. The summit is now a further 1345m up and you will make the final ascent the same night. Prepare your equipment, ski stick and thermal clothing for your summit attempt. This should include the replacement of your headlamp and camera batteries and make sure you have a spare set available as well. To prevent freezing it will be wise to carry your water in a thermal flask. Go to bed at round about 19h00 and try to get some precious rest and sleep.

Day 5: SUMMIT ATTEMPT, Barafu camp (4550m) - Uhuru Peak (5895m)-Mweka (3100m).

Hiking time: 8 hours to reach Uhuru Peak.

7/8 hours to descend to Mweka.

Distance: About 7 km's ascent - 23 km's descent.

Habitat: Stone scree and ice-capped summit.

You will rise around 23h30, and after some tea and biscuits you shuffle off into the night. You will head in a northwesterly direction and ascend through heavy scree towards Stella Point on the crater rim. This 6-hour walk to Stella point is for many climbers, mentally and physically the most challenging on the route. At Stella Point (5685m) you will stop for a short rest and will be rewarded with the most magnificent sunrise you are ever likely to see (weather permitting). From Stella Point you will normally encounter snow all the way on your 2-hour ascent to Uhuru Peak. The time you will spend on the summit will depend on the weather conditions. Do not stop here for too long, as it will be extremely difficult to start again due to cold and fatigue. Enjoy your accomplishment and a day to remember for the rest of your life. The walk back to Barafu from the summit, takes about 3 hours. Here you will have a well earned but short rest and collect the rest of your gear, before heading down to Mweka hut (3100m). The route is not difficult and will take you down the rock and scree path into the moorland and eventually into the forest. The camp is situated in the upper forest and mist or rain can be expected in the late afternoon. Dinner and washing water will be prepared.

Day 6: Mweka camp (3100m) - Mweka Gate (1980m).
Hiking time: 3 hours.
Distance: About 15 km's .
Habitat: Forest .

. After an early and well-deserved breakfast, it is a short 3-hour and scenic hike back to the Park gate. At Mweka gate you sign your name and details in a register. This is also where successful climbers receive their summit certificates. Those climbers who reached Stella Point (5685m) are issued with green certificates and those who reached Uhuru Peak (5895m) receive gold certificates. From the Mweka Gate you will continue down into the Mweka village, normally a muddy 3 km (1 hour) hike. In the Mweka village you will be served a delicious hot lunch!! You now drive back to Arusha for a long over due hot shower, dinner and celebrations!!

info@kili-tanzanitesafaris.com
Søndag 4 Mai 2008
Climbing Mount kilimanjaro and trekking expeditions trips in Tanzania.

Professional Climbing mount kilimanjaro outfitter with all necessary equipments. Climbing mount kilimanjaro is challenging but with well trained and experienced guides any one can make it easily to the Kilimanjaro top. Kilimanjaro climbing is through Machame, Rongai, Marangu, Shira, Londrosi/Lemosho, and Umbwe. Kilimanjaro trekking is successful and adventure.

Rongai - Double scenic,gentle route!

Duration: 6 Days.
The Rongai route ascents Kilimanjaro from the northeastern side of the mountain, along the border between Tanzania and Kenya. This route retains a sense of unspoilt wilderness and offers a different perspective on Kilimanjaro by approaching it from the north.

It is more exhilarating and rewarding route because you experience more. You experience more in the sense that you trek through two routes. You ascent through Rongai route and descend through Marangu route. It’ s like throwing one stone and kill two birds.

Day 1: Rongai Gate (1950m) - 1st Caves camp (2600m).
Hiking time: 5 hours.
Distance: About 8 km's.
Habitat: Montane forest
Register at the Marangu park gate with a transfer (approximately 2 ½ hours) to the Rongai trailhead. Meet your guide and porters before you begin your hike from the Nale Moru village. The small winding path crosses maize fields before entering pine forest, and then climbs gently through a forest. The trail is not at all steep, but is rather a gentle hike through beautiful country. The first night's camp is at First Cave, at about 2,600 metres. There is a toilet and a wooden table with benches, but no hut. Water can be found just down the trail below First Cave.

Day 2: 1st Cave (2600m) - Kikelewa Cave (3600m).
Hiking time: 6-7 hours.
Habitat: Moorlands
The trail continues up towards Kibo, passing Second Cave (3450m) en-route, and reaching Kikelwa Cave at about 3600 metres. The views start to open up and you begin to feel you're on a really big mountain! Water is in the obvious stream below the cave, although you might have to wander downhill a way to find some. Overnight at 3rd Cave camp (Kikelewa Caves). .
Day 3: Kikelewa Cave (3600) - Mawenzi Tarn camp (4330m).
Hiking time: 3-4 hours.
Habitat: Moorlands
A short but steep climb up grassy slopes offers superb views of this wilderness area. The vegetation zone ends shortly before you reach your next camp at Mawenzi Tarn spectacularly situated beneath the towering spires of Mawenzi. Spend the afternoon acclimatizing and exploring the area.

Day 4: Mawenzi Tarn camp (4330m) - Kibo hut (4700m).
Hiking time: 4 - 5 hours.
Habitat: Alpine desert.
Continue ascending on the east side of Kibo crossing the saddle between Mawenzi and Kibo taking 4 to 5 hours to reach Kibo Hut. The remainder of the day is spent resting in preparation for the final ascent, which begins around midnight. Overnight at Kibo Camp.

Day 5: SUMMIT ATTEMPT, Kibo hut (4700m) - Uhuru Peak (5895m) - Horombo hut (3720m).
Hiking time: 8 hours to reach Uhuru, 6 hours to descend to Horombo.
Distance: 6 km's ascent - 21 km's descent.
Habitat: Stone scree and ice-capped summit.
You will rise around 23h30, and after some tea and biscuits you shuffle off into the night. This is where the going really gets tough. The first section of the trail consists of a rocky path to the Hans Meyer Cave (5150m), also a good resting spot. The path then zigzags up to Gillman's point (5 681m), which is located on the crater rim. This section is very steep with a lot of stone scree, requiring a great physical and mental effort. Probably the most demanding section of the entire route. Do the Kili shuffle and move slowly. From Gillman's Point you will normally encounter snow all the way up to Uhuru peak (5895m), the highest point in Africa. Total exhilaration and satisfaction - you made it. Weather conditions on the summit will determine how long you can spend, taking photographs, before the 3-hour descent back to Kibo hut. After a short rest you gather all your gear for the ascent and head down to Horombo hut (3 hours) where you will overnight. The return to Horombo hut will seem surprisingly fast compared to the ascent. The total time spent walking on this day is around 14 hours, so be prepared for a very tough day. Later in the evening you enjoy your last dinner (with soft drinks and beer for sale at the camp office) on the mountain and well-earned sleep, filled with memories and stirring emotions.

Day 6: Horombo hut (3720m) - Marangu Gate (1980m).
Hiking time: 6 hours.
Distance: About 27 km's.
After breakfast you continue your descent (6 hours), passing the Mandara hut, down to the Marangu gate. At Marangu gate you sign your name and details in a register. This is also where successful climbers receive their summit certificates. Those climbers who reached Gillman's Point (5685m) are issued with green certificates and those who reached Uhuru Peak (5895m) receive gold certificates. You now drive back to Arusha for a long overdue hot shower, dinner and celebrations!!

Get ACCLIMATISED by avoiding rapid ascent from low altitude to above 10,000. By doing so you may avoid MOUNTAIN SICKNESS, and prevent pulmonary oedema.

Mount Kilimanjaro trekking is slow walking while breathing easily getting to Summit. We recommend Kilimanjaro trekking via Machame and ROngai routes as they are scenic and less traveled.
Marangu route is most famous and has more climbers on the way, less scenic though easiest route to Kilimanjaro summit. Shira and Lemosho-Londrosi takes 7 days for successful climbs.
Climbers who are interested to join a group for Kilimanjaro trekking are welcome. Joining a group will enable the climber to save money, have fun. Kilimanjaro trekking in a group will increase courage.

Get more information about Mount Kilimanjaro climbing free of charge

info@kili-tanzanitesafaris.com

kili2tanzanite@gmail.com
Torsdag 20 Desember 2007
SOUTHERN CIRCUIT SAFARIS TANZANIA, selous game reserve, ruaha, safari trips

Safari to Selous game reserve, Udzungwa, Ruaha, Mikumi, Saadani National parks and Dar es salaam Beach and City Tours. Southern circuit safari consist of Selous, Ruaha, Mikumi, Udzungwa mountains. Southern Circuit safari is has much more experience and less $$ compared to Northern circuit safaris. Safari to Selous game reserve, Udzungwa, Ruaha, Mikumi, Saadani National parks is virgin and unexploited Bush. There are much more animals that are not in Northern Circuit Safaris. Many wild dogs ever in the World seen in Selous, Biggest and many elephants ever in Selous game reserve.

Below is a tailor made private safari for southern Circuit.

Maximum wildlife viewing tours,walking safaris,boat safaris,game drives, sight seeing, cultural tourism

Day 1: After breakfast depart for Mikumi National on a drive of 8 hours. Packed lunch will be provided. Overnight at Lodge/Camping/, full board

Day 2 : Morning game drive, and after noon relaxation by the poolside. At 16.00 depart for the later afternoon game drive returning to Lodge/Camping/ for diner,.
MIKUMI NATIONAL PARK is flanked between the Uluguru and Udzungwa Mountains. Mikumi National Park is home to buffalos, giraffes, elephants, lions, zebras and leopards. The park is also famous for its wild dogs and 6m long pythons.

Day 3: Depart in the morning after breakfast (7:30 Am) for Ruaha National Park. The drive to Ruaha is a truly fascinating one which gives you the real feel of the African countryside. The journey will see you pass sisal plantations, local villages before starting to climb the Great Rift Escarpment passing Iringa Town and finally arriving to Ruaha Huts at (13:30). Arrival time will be just in time for lunch. After lunch, visit a traditional African village before return to Ruaha Huts, for the dinner and Overnight, (full board.)

Day 4: Accompanied by an armed ranger, (7:30am) we start the day with a walking safari followed by afternoon game drive (13:30), Overnight at Ruaha huts (Full Board).
A walking safari which will bring you close to some of the smallest animals and plants that you would not see on a vehicle game drive. The crisp fresh African air mixed with the wild smell of the animals evokes your smell sense to the intoxication unique bush smell of Africa. Each plant and tree has medicinal value in the African Community and our guide will point them.

Day 5: - Leaving the Camp immediately after breakfast you start out early morning game drive with your guide in search of the elusive wild dogs, herds of elephants and buffaloes. Lunch will be at the Bandas. After lunch, return for late afternoon/evening game drive. This is the time that predators begin for their hunt for their evening meal, return to the Bandas for dinner and over night at Ruaha Huts, full board

Day 6: Day excision to Udzungwa National park for hiking and swimming in the waterfalls. Overnight a Lodge/Camping/, full board

UDZUNGWA NATIONAL PARK is the newest, opened to the public 1992, and one of the most beautiful wilderness areas in Tanzania. Covering an area of 1900 sq km., the uniqueness of this park lies in its biodiversity in hosting a variety of animals and plant species not found anywhere else in the world. The red Colobus and the Sane crested manbrey, elephants, buffalos, leopards, and sable antelopes are some of the residents in this park. A good range of birdlife is present which includes Rufus winged sunbird, Iringa akalat, Lagden’s bush shrike and Udzungwa partridge. Activities include a hike to the Sanje water falls .

Day 7: Depart in the morning after breakfast for Selous Game Reserve. This will be along drive of 5 hours through some of the most scenic parts of Southern Tanzania. Villages and the Uluguru Mountains dot along the way. You will make a short lunch break by the road side arriving at the Camp by late afternoon. Late afternoon game drive and overnight at Lodge/Camping/, full board .

Day 8: Morning walking safari followed by an afternoon game drive. Take the rest of the full day to explore the reserve as the famous explorers did in the yester years. Picnic lunch will be under shady trees with a relaxing visit the hot springs Overnight at Lodge/Camping/, full board

Day 9: Morning game drive followed by an afternoon boats safari. The boat safari brings you close to the aquatic animals and birds. Return to camp late evening in time to freshen up and for dinner. Overnight at Lodge/Camping/, full board.
Selous Game Reserve covering 50,000sq km, this is the largest game reserve in the Africa. The reserve supports an enormous number of elephants, buffalos and wildebeests. Other rare species include the African Hunting dog. The park provides home for some of the last remaining black rhinos.

Day 10: Depart after morning drive to Dar es Salaam with packed
lunch en-route.

More information about Tanzania for free

info@kili-tanzanitesafaris.com

kili2tanzanite@gmail.com
Torsdag 20 Desember 2007
Tanzania Travel Tips, Safari,Tourism & Embassies
From the snows of Mount Kilimanjaro, the vast plains of the Serengeti and the unique Ngorongoro Crater, to the barefoot luxury of its Indian Ocean islands, Tanzania offers some of the most wonderful locations in Africa.

Tanzania is home to one of Africa's most magnificent game reserves; the seemingly endless plains of the Serengeti, where one of the world's greatest natural spectacles, the annual migration of some two million wildebeest followed by their predators can be observed. The Serengeti holds some of the largest concentrations of lion, cheetah and leopard in Africa, and is probably the best game reserve on the continent to see these predators. Take a balloon trip across the Serengeti to get a birds eye view of the plains.

Close to the Serengeti is the Ngorongoro Crater, a microcosm of East African game and landscapes and, therefore, a photographer's paradise. It is the largest unbroken caldera in the world and, together with its 25,000 large mammals and 100 species of birds, many have described it as one of the wonders of the world.

The nearby Tarangire and Manyara National Parks hold a diverse range of flora and fauna. Manyara is famous for its tree climbing lions, its vast array of bird life (an estimated 350 species) and its widely contrasting landscapes. Tarangire is renowned for its dense wildlife population which is at its most spectacular between June and October, the dry period, when animals congregate at the river.

In the south of Tanzania lies an untouched and relatively unknown game reserve. Selous, is roughly the size of Switzerland and is an excellent park in which to see elephant. The Rufiji River flows through the reserve and during the rainy season it floods the park. This, and its remote location explain its isolation from human contact and the vast concentrations of game. The most popular way of viewing game is on guided walks and by boat.

Tanzania's parks can be explored from the privacy of your own Land Rover with driver/guide. Accommodation is in private mobile camps or permanent camps and lodges.

Both Zanzibar and the Tanzanian coast boast magnificent tropical palm fringed beaches. South of Dar es Salaam is one such location - Ras Kutani - a secluded paradise on its own private beach overlooking a peaceful lagoon, another luxury island lodge being Mnemba Island Lodge.

Zanzibar is a short flight from Dar es Salaam and is the perfect island on which to relax after a safari. Lapped by the crystal clear waters of the Indian Ocean, Zanzibar offers superb diving and snorkeling and the chance to swim with dolphins. The unspoilt beaches and rustic chalets are the perfect cure to the stress of modern life - wake to fresh mangoes and other fruits, sunbathe, swim and relax during the day, and feast on fresh lobster at night. Zanzibar's stone town, with its maze of alleys and tucked away craftsmen is a fascinating place to explore. The history and cultures of this unique island have left their mark for all to experience. Of course no visit to Zanzibar would be complete without a spice tour of the island and a trip to the forests of the interior.

Tanzania and Zanzibar make an ideal 2 week destination, spend a week on safari, and then wind down on one of the most relaxing places on earth.
The People
While the national language of Kenya is Kiswahili, English is the official language and is widely spoken and understood across East Africa.
Safety
In the cities, adhere to the following:
Don't walk alone in apparently deserted areas, especially in and around the cities. It is preferable and usually more enjoyable to walk with company or in groups. Don't carry large sums of cash in your purse or pocket.
or display expensive jewelry. Be aware of the possibility of pick-pockets and bag snatchers in crowded areas. Make photocopies of the first few pages of your passport, air ticket and other important travel documents. Keep this separate from the originals. Don't leave money or valuables in a hotel room. Most hotels offer safety deposit box service, and ensure that you have adequate insurance coverage before leaving home.
In the wildlife areas:
Always remember that while some animals have become accustomed to the presence of people they are still wild animals. Keep your distance. It is illegal to feed any animal, make excessive noise to attract their attention, or deviate from designated roads for that closer photograph. Never get out of your vehicle except at designated points. Close all windows and zippers when you leave your room or tent and spray it with insect repellant.

The best way to get the most out of your safari is to take an active interest in everything going on around you, not just the number of species you can see in the shortest possible time. Ask all the questions you can think of and take reference books on not only wildlife but birds, insects and trees and read up about everything you see.
Health
It is advisable to take out emergency medical insurance prior to entering Tanzania.
Bilharzia: The bilharzia parasite is found in many lakes, streams and rivers on the continent. Avoid swimming in them!
Vaccinations for cholera, tetanus and yellow fever are advised. Malaria is virulent in Tanzania. Take prophylactics two weeks before arrival and continue two weeks after leaving. Your chemist or doctor can advise you of the most suitable drug available as certain drugs lose their effectiveness.
Tap water in the major towns is purified and perfectly safe to drink. In the more remote areas always boil it first, except if you’re staying at a lodge or hotel where drinking water is perfectly safe. Bottled water is readily available in the bigger towns.
It is advisable to buy travel insurance covering accidents, illness or hospitalization for the period of your stay. Temporary membership in East African Flying Doctors' Service is also recommended for safari goers. Members who require emergency medical attention on safari are flown to Nairobi for the best medical attention available in the country.
Water
Drink only bottled water or from flasks of filtered and boiled water provided by most hotels and lodges.
Chemists / pharmacies
Travellers should carry an adequate supply of medicines and first aid accessories with them as supplies are limited in Kenya. Most chemists in the major towns are open from 08h30 to 12h30 and 14h00 to 17h00. Monday to Friday and 08h00 to 13h00 on Saturdays. There are no emergency chemists open after hours or Sundays.

Accommodation
Standards and services range from up-market to tourist. Deluxe and first class hotels are found in the main cities and the resorts on the coastline of the country. Luxurious lodges are set in exotic locations, while comfortable tented camps are found in the main game parks.
Electricity
Power supply is 220/240 volt 50 cycle. Plugs are usually 13-amp 3 pin square (British type)
Banks
There are numerous banks in the major towns as well as many bureau de change. Hours of business vary from bank to bank, but most are open from 9h00 to 14h30, Mondays to Fridays, and 9h00 - 11h30 on Saturdays. Hotels and lodges change money outside these hours.
Currency
Currency unit is the shilling, comprising 100 cents. Coins are in denominations of 5c, 10c, 50c and 1 and 5 shillings. Bank notes are in denominations of 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, 500,1,000 and 10,000 shillings. Importation of foreign currency is unlimited and has to be declared on arrival. The importation and exportation of Tanzania currency is illegal. Please note that visitors to Zanzibar are required to pay for their services in foreign currency.
It's best to come into the country with either Travellers checks or dollars or pounds which can be exchanged at any of the many Bureau de Change in the main Towns. If you are offered an exchange on the black market at the borders, exercise extreme caution as they are notorious for cheating you without you even realizing it.
Credit Cards, Cash and Traveler's Checks
International credit cards are accepted by most restaurants, stores, hotels, lodges, camps, car rental firms, etc. However, many small shops in rural areas will not accept them. American Express, Thomas Cook, Visa and MasterCard Traveler's Checks are widely accepted.
Tipping
A tip of 10% for good service is adequate. Service charges are frequently added and it is usual to tip a tour driver or guide at least US $5 a day.

Communications
Postal services are fairly well organized in Tanzania and you should have no problem sending or receiving letters. Telegrams are less certain. Public telephones are in a bad state of repair and you could wait hours for a line. Rather make international calls from your hotel.
All major hotels have fax machines at the disposal of their guests as well as telex services. Telephone directories will list all the international dialing codes. Both local and long-distance calls are metered on a time basis. (Note the surcharge at hotels is quite high, but it will cost less in frustration).
When to go
Between December and mid-March, the days are sunny, hot and dry and the nights are cool. Best time for deep sea fishing and scuba diving is between August and March when the ocean is calm and water is clear. Rains fall mainly from April to June.
Climate
Although Tanzania is considered to fall in the tropics, climate and temperature varies depending on altitude and proximity to the ocean. Coastal regions are hot and humid while the central plateaus are warm and dry, with cool nights.
Clothing
Lightweight casual clothes can be worn all year round, with a jacket or sweater for early winter mornings and evenings. On safari keep clothes to a minimum and mostly of neutral coloring - khakis, browns and greens. A sunhat, sunglasses, sunscreen and insect repellant are a must. Bring a hat, good walking shoes and sun screen. Don't forget swim wear and binoculars. Some city restaurants and clubs have dress codes - casual jacket and tie for men, informal dresses for women.
Laundry
Most hotels and lodges will offer a laundry service. For low budget travelers there are no coin operated laundromats at all so consider drip dry clothing and be prepared for hand washing. In most places one could hire someone to do your washing.

Photography

Tanzania is considered to be a photographers dream destination. From panoramic scenery, wildlife and birds to people and vibrant ceremonies. Rich color and good low lighting conditions abound. It is considered rude to take pictures of people without asking them first. Members of local tribes will expect payment for posing. Always bring plenty of film and video cassettes if you're bringing a camcorder as well as batteries - as these items are difficult to get in Tanzania. Keep your cameras in a dust resistant, padded case and out of the midday sun. A 200mm (or longer) telephoto lens will prove very useful on safari, and an ultra violet filter and lens cap are strongly recommended. Please note that taking pictures of government and military personnel and installations is prohibited!
Driving
Driving is done on the left side of the road. Drivers require a valid license that must include a picture of the holder.
If you’re doing a vehicle trip through Tanzania it is a good idea to carry a range of tools and essential spares with you. Two spare wheels and a couple of spare tubes are a must due to the condition of the roads. Spare jerry cans of fuel and water, a tow rope, compressor, winch and a spotlight are useful items to have. Many of the villages along the main routes offer tire mending services at a very reasonable fee. .
Be very careful in towns and villages not to leave your vehicle open and unattended. People with little are easily tempted. You should have no problem sleeping outdoors in designated camping areas or remote places along the way, but get into the habit of locking things away before you go to sleep.
Car Rental
Car rental companies are represented at the major airports and in the cities, as are taxis.
Transportation by Air
Kilimanjaro International Airport, Dar es Salaam and Zanzibar are the main points of entry. Scheduled services link these cities to Arusha, the gateway to Tanzania's game parks, Mount Kilimanjaro, and other centers.
Alliance, South African Airways' associate airline, links Johannesburg and Dar es Salaam with regularly scheduled air services. Air Tanzania is the national airline.

Departure Tax
An airport departure tax of U.S. $20 is levied when leaving the country.
Customs Requirements
All visitors must have a valid passport and are subject to clearance through customs. In addition, all non-Commonwealth citizens require a visa, to be obtained from Tanzanian Missions abroad or at the post of entry.

Time Differences
Throughout the year, Standard Time in Tanzania is three hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time, two hours ahead of Central European Winter Time, and eight hours ahead of Eastern Standard Winter Time in the U.S.

Safety Rules within Cities:
Do not walk alone in apparently deserted places especially at night; wherever possible walk with a group. Be on the look out for pickpockets and bag snatchers. Do not carry more cash than required. Do not wear jeweler. Wear a money belt that fits under your clothes. Don't carry a lot of camera equipment especially in the major cities. Keep a photocopy of the first few pages of your passport, visas and air tickets, separately from the original documents. Beware of thieves posing as police officers.

Safety on Roads:
When driving in Africa there are a few simple rules, drive carefully and slowly (speed kills), remember animals and humans can cross the road at any time (quite often just in front of you), try never to drive at night, stay alert as roads are often poorly maintained and pot holes are to be found. Another fairly common occurrence are vehicles with missing headlights. Always wear you seat belts. If you are renting a car, keep the doors and windows locked while driving in the major cities. Car-jacking occurs fairly regularly but may not end in violence as long as you comply with demands made.

Your Security.
Generally people are very friendly towards tourists in Tanzania and you will be humbled by their hospitality. However, poverty is rampant in Tanzania and you will soon realize that you are far richer and more fortunate than most local people you meet. You will probably attract your fair share of souvenir hawkers and beggars, but try and take the time to meet ordinary people going about their day to day business too. The experience will be worth it. Don't be afraid to step out of that tour bus, just take some precautions. Stay aware of what's going on around you, you have a good chance of enjoying a problem-free safari!

Safety on Safari:
Always listen to your guide!
When visiting wildlife areas do not walk into the bush without your guide permission as there are fierce dangerous wild animals!
Do not approach any wild animals too closely: It is dangerous!
Do not swim in any rivers (presence of crocodiles and hippo's)!
Never feed any animals, however inquisitive they may appear to be!.

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