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Nyerere National Park (Selous) in Tanzania

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Locals still know it as Selous Game Reserve. But the official name is Nyerere National Park. Whatever you call it, this Tanzania safaris park is one of the largest in Africa, spanning almost 31,000 km²/12,000 square… 

Ruaha National Park in Tanzania

Ruaha National Park in Tanzania

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Ruaha National Park in Tanzania covers an area of over 20200 km2/7,800 miles2. For context, that is about thirteen times the size of the Maasai Mara or almost the size of Rwanda. Yet Ruaha remains relatively unknown, drawing fewer than… 

Is Lake Manyara National Park Worth Visiting?

Is Lake Manyara National Park Worth Visiting?

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While planning their northern Tanzania safaris, travellers always wonder: Is Lake Manyara worth visiting, why visit Lake Manyara National Park, what is special about Manyara National Park? Yes, Lake Manyara is worth visiting. In this article, we bring you… 

What Is Special About Tarangire National Park?

What Is Special About Tarangire National Park?

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What is special about Tarangire National Park? Well, Tarangire National Park is best known for its big herds of elephant. It is home to one of the largest populations of elephants in Africa. However, Tarangire is… 

Is Climbing Kilimanjaro Hard?

Is Climbing Kilimanjaro Hard?

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Is Climbing Kilimanjaro Hard? Is Climbing Kilimanjaro Hard? Tanzania‘s Mount Kilimanjaro is not a very difficult mountain to climb. Almost anyone can climb Kilimanjaro. But as you plan your Kilimanjaro climbing adventure, please note that is… 

Day 1: Welcome To The Pearl Of Africa!

Your international flight lands at Entebbe International Airport, where a private transfer will take you to your overnight accommodation in Entebbe.

Entebbe is a small city on the shores of Lake Victoria, Africa’s largest lake. If your flight arrives early in the day, you can go for a guided tour of the city.

You start with a visit to the vibrant Entebbe Crafts Village, where you can shop for one-of-a-kind souvenirs and handicrafts. Stop at the local markets to savor a famous street snack called a Rolex (a tomato and onion omelet rolled with chapati), then explore St. John’s Church, the colonial-era Anglican church.

After exploring the village, your guide will lead you to the Entebbe Botanical Gardens. Stroll through the lush gardens, admiring the vibrant array of colorful flowers and exotic plants. Finally, cap off your walking tour with a visit to the public beach by Lake Victoria.

Accommodation Options:

Luxury: Protea Hotel Entebbe/Hotel No.5/Serena Lake Victoria Resort

Mid-range: Boma Hotel Entebbe/2 Friends Beach Hotel Entebbe

Budget: Airport Guest House

Meal Plan: Dinner

Day 2-3: Bigodi Wetland Walk & Chimpanzee Tracking In Kibale Forest

After breakfast, your private transfer vehicle takes you on a scenic drive to your next destination. Pass rolling hillsides, tea plantations and the well-known Ruwenzori Mountain Chain.

You will arrive at your lodge or camp near Kibale Forest in the mid-afternoon, where you can relax and take in the breath-taking views from the lush tropical forest or explosion volcanic crater lakes. A guided walk around the rim of the volcanic Crater Lakes can round off your day.

Day three sees you venturing into two of Uganda’s wonderfully diverse landscapes. First up is a chimpanzee tracking adventure in Kibale Forest National Park. Kibale Forest has the highest concentrations of primates in East Africa, with a habituated community of chimpanzees that are located 99% of the time during treks.

Spend an hour with these majestic primates, learning about their behaviour and lifestyle. Once your chimp trek is wrapped up, stop for a picnic lunch. After the lunch, the adventure does not stop as you go for a community based guided tour of the Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary. During this walk, you’ll learn more about this community-run initiative that aims to conserve the unique biodiversity and environmental values of the wetlands.

Your day ends back at the lodge time for a delectable dinner.

Please note: No children under the age of 12 years are allowed on the chimpanzee tracking.

Accommodation Options:

Luxury: Crater Safari Lodge/Primate Lodge Kibale/Kyaninga Lodge

Mid-range: Kibale Forest Camp/Chimpanzee Forest Guest House

Budget: Chimpanzee Forest Guest House/Kibale Forest Camp

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 4-5: Meet The Gentle Giants Of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.

Wake up to the sounds of twittering birds before enjoying a delicious breakfast.

After that, you will hop back in the 4WD vehicle for the 7.5-hour ride to the southernmost end of Uganda and Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park.

The scenic route will take you through the famous Ishasha sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park, where you may spot wild game, including the famous tree-climbing lions, which only exist in East Africa.

Eventually, you will arrive in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, where you will check into your lodge. Located at the edge of the Rift Valley, this UNESCO World Heritage site is a pristine biological and botanical ecosystem covering 331 square kilometres.

It protects ancient rainforests that are a habitat for around 500 wild mountain gorillas, which represent about half the entire world’s population of these apes. A late afternoon arrival at your lodge ensures that you have plenty of time to rest before your unforgettable Gorilla trekking tour the next day.

Day five kicks off with a hearty breakfast. Then it is off for a trek through Bwindi Impenetrable Forest in search of the endangered mountain gorillas who call. The up-close encounter you will have with these gentle giants is truly lifechanging – trust us, you will feel it the moment you stare deep into their expressive brown eyes.

Optional Activity: Batwa Pygmies Cultural Experience

The Batwa people have inhabited the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest for thousands of years and have not forgotten the old ways of life. As part of your stay, you are invited to witness a re-enactment of life as it was for the Batwa in the rainforest, and have the opportunity of interacting with these incredible people.

Accommodation Options:

Luxury: Haven Lodge Buhoma/Gorilla Forest Camp/Buhoma Lodge

Mid-range: Gorilla Mist Camp/Ichumbi Lodge/Agandi Uganda Lodge

Budget: Trekkers Tavern Cottages

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 6: Drive To Kigali Rwanda For Your Flight Transfer To Tanzania

Wake up to the beautiful views of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and scenic hills and enjoy a tasty breakfast. Then it is time to leave Bwindi and its majestic gorillas behind, travelling from Uganda into neighbouring Rwanda. This stunning drive takes you through the hilly countryside of Rwanda, dubbed the ‘Land of a Thousand Hills’.

Connect to Kigali International Airport for the regional flight to Kilimanjaro International Airport; meet our representative who will then transfer you to Arusha.

Accommodation Options:

Luxury: Impala Hotel/Arusha Coffee Lodge/Kibo Palace Hotel

Midrange: Outpost Lodge

Meal Plan: Breakfast & Dinner

Day 7: Journey To The Serengeti

After breakfast, you will be transferred to Arusha Airport for your scheduled flight to the Serengeti National Park. From there, you will take an introductory game drive up to your booked camp or lodge. Settle in and get ready for a few days of Serengeti magic.

Day 8 – 9: Discover The World’s Greatest Concentration Of Wildlife

For the next couple of days, you will explore one of the Seven Natural Wonders of Africa, renowned for its large population of lions and home to the biggest terrestrial mammal migration on the planet, the Wildebeest Migration.

If you choose to stay at a mobile camp like Asilia’s Olakira Migration Camp between June and November, you will be camping in the northern Serengeti’s Bolongoja region, a mere 300 metres (980 feet) from a Migration crossing point at the Mara River.

Between December and March, Olakira moves south to Ndutu where you will enjoy superlative game viewing and witness the Migration’s birthing season (from about February). Aside from the seasonal Wildebeest Migration, the Serengeti’s pleasant climate and abundance of resident wildlife like buffalo, elephant, giraffe and all the big cats make it is an excellent year-round game viewing destination.

Accommodation:

Luxury: Serengeti Sopa Lodge/Serengeti Serena Lodge/Olakira Migration Camp

Midrange: Serengeti Kati Kati Camp

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 10: Flight Transfer To Zanzibar

After breakfast, you will drive to the nearest airstrip for your scheduled short-haul flight to Zanzibar Island. Upon landing at Abeid Amani Karume International Airport, you will be driven straight to the superb Matemwe Lodge on the north-eastern coast. Settle into your spacious suite, set in a beautiful garden with sensational views of the powdery white-sand beach and clear aquamarine waters from your private veranda. The comfortable hammock and couch are sure to be your ideal companions for the next few days.

Day 12-14: Unwind In Paradise On Zanzibar Island

After all the Serengeti action, you might want to do nothing except soak up the sun beside the pool or in your hammock with a refreshing cocktail from the lodge’s bar. Pamper yourself with wonderful, de-stressing massages and spa treatments.

If you are feeling active, set out on diving and snorkelling excursions to discover the Mnemba Atoll – a renowned reef and fascinating underwater world. Or simply hop onto one of the lodge’s complimentary kayaks and explore the surrounding turquoise waters. Day trips can also be arranged to explore the historical cobbled streets of Stone Town, the island capital’s old quarter, buzzing with colourful markets and local flavours.

Feast on fresh seafood combined with local produce in Matemwe’s cosy lounge area or around the pool. Lunch is usually a buffet-style blend of African and European dishes, and dinner features various fish, meat and vegetarian options. Marvel at the gorgeous sunset every night with a delicious drink in hand.

Day 15: Your Time In East Africa Comes To An End

On your fifteenth and final day, bid the sandy shores of Zanzibar Island goodbye. As you are driving through the island roads back to Zanzibar’s airport for your trip home, you’ll have two weeks of wonderful experiences to look back on.

Day 1: Arrive In Arusha

Welcome to Tanzania! This country is a wildlife lover’s paradise, home to some of Africa’s most famous safari destinations. Located in the Great Lakes region of East Africa, Tanzania is known for its vast wilderness areas.

This country is home to the Serengeti National Park, where millions of plains animals migrate around its fertile savannas. Also, here is the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, the only place you can see all Big Five animals on a single game drive.

Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, your driver will be waiting at the airport to transfer you to your hotel in Arusha City. Not only does this city sit at the foot of the 14,980-foot (4,566-m) Meru Volcano, but at certain places, you can also spot the snow-capped peak of Kilimanjaro – Africa’s tallest mountain.

If you are a coffee lover, you will want to hit a cafe and sample this country’s famous Robusta and Arabica roasts. After all, Tanzania is the third-largest coffee producer in Africa, and this bean is its largest export crop.

Accommodation Options:

Luxury: Impala Hotel/Arusha Coffee Lodge/Kibo Palace Hotel

Midrange: Outpost Lodge

Meal Plan: Dinner

Day 2: Flight Transfer To Serengeti

After breakfast, you will be transferred to Arusha Airport for your scheduled flight the Serengeti. From there, you will take a scenic game drive to your camp or lodge. Settle in and get ready for a few days of Serengeti magicThis legendary wildlife reserve is the archetypal safari destination.

In the Maasai language, the name Serengeti means “endless plains,” and this protected area’s 5,700 square miles (14,763 square kilometers) deliver on that promise. The park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Biosphere Reserve that supports the largest concentration of plains game globally, including the famous Big Five animals: lions, leopards, buffalo, elephants, and black rhinos.

With any luck, you’ll arrive in the Serengeti at the right time to witness the Great Migration – the biggest terrestrial mammal migration on the planet and one of the Seven Natural Wonders of Africa. The Great Migration sees around 1.5 million wildebeest, plus hundreds of thousands of zebras and gazelles, undertaking the long trek to new grazing grounds.

Accommodation:

Luxury:  Serengeti Sopa Lodge/Serengeti Serena Lodge/Ubuntu Migration Camp

Midrange: Serengeti Kati Kati Camp

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 3-4: Serengeti Game Drives

Spend the next couple of days living every wildlife lover’s dream as you embark on wildlife safaris across the wondrous Serengeti. Enjoy both morning and afternoon game drives to witness the wildlife in one of the oldest ecosystems on the planet. Don’t forget your camera.

Mornings are the best time to see the wild animals at their most active. During these early hours, you will likely see grazing giraffes and zebras – and perhaps even lions as they hunt wildebeest and gazelles. Other animals you are likely to spot include elephants and buffalo, with leopards and rhinos being a less common sight.

You can choose to have lunch on the road or back at camp, after which you will continue the game drive into the afternoon. Dinner will be served each night in camp or lodge. Besides the seasonal Wildebeest Migration, the Serengeti National Park’s pleasant climate and abundance of resident wildlife make it is an excellent year-round game viewing destination.

Accommodation:

Luxury:  Serengeti Sopa Lodge/Serengeti Serena Lodge/Ubuntu Migration Camp

Midrange: Serengeti Kati Kati Camp

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 5: Serengeti National Park To Zanzibar

After breakfast, you will return to the nearest airstrip for your scheduled short-haul flight to Zanzibar. This archipelago is regarded as one of most beautiful island destinations in Africa.

On arrival at the airport, a private driver will be waiting to transfer you to your beach hotel.

After unpacking, feel free to kick back on the white sand beach amid the tall palm trees and enjoy the stunning views of the Indian Ocean. Depending on the hotel or resort you select, you may have all modern conveniences and creature comforts at your disposal, such as a private butler/chef, rooftop deck, and plunge pool overlooking the stunning coastline.

If that is the case, you may want to spend the day at your villa and later enjoy a romantic evening. However, if you feel like venturing out, there is plenty to do.

Take a stroll down the beach, go snorkeling, scuba diving, or participate in one of the many activities available on the Zanzibar Island. If you are traveling with that special someone, you can enjoy a romantic lunch on your own private sandbank. Like in the Serengeti National Park, there is no need to rush because you will have multiple days to explore every corner of the island.

Day 6-7: Zanzibar Optional Activities

There are numerous optional activities to keep you busy on Zanzibar Island. Of course, the main attractions are its gorgeous beaches. You can easily spend the next couple of days unwinding on one of these prized stretches of sand. Or, if you are feeling social, there is no shortage of beach clubs and party vibes in the coastal village of Nungwi. If calm and relaxation are what you are looking for, head to Michamvi Beach for some isolation.

Maybe you would prefer a snorkeling or diving tour. Matemwe, on the northeast coast, is the best place for either activity, as it provides access to the coral reefs around the Mnemba Atoll. Or spend a day at Jozani Forest, home to exotic animals like the red colobus monkey.

Tour the Kuumbi Caves in Jambiani on the southeast coast for more nature. There are options besides swimming and hiking, like surfing, kayaking in mangrove forests, or cycling tours around the island. You could also head out to sea for a sport-fishing adventure to reel in some marlin and sailfish.

You will want to spend time in the main town, too. Besides beaches and nature, Zanzibar Island boasts a rich history and cultural. Stone Town, the medieval center of the capital was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

This warren of alleyways, shops, bazaars, and mosques is home to some of Zanzibar’s most historic buildings. One standout is the Arab Fort, a defensive fortification built in the 17th century. A great activity is to take stroll through the Stone Town and admire its unique mix of Arabic architecture and Indian influences. You can also visit a former slave market site and learn about this sad part of Zanzibar Island’s history.

Day 7: Zanzibar to Arusha, Depart

Unfortunately, it is time to leave the tropical paradise. After breakfast, you will transfer to the airport in Zanzibar and then fly to Arusha, where you will catch your International flight home. Safe travels!

Day 1: Arrival To Zanzibar, Stone Town Evening Tour

Welcome to Zanzibar, Tanzania – an archipelagic gem filled with gorgeous palm-fringed sandy beaches, lively markets and a varied, and sometimes dark, history.

Zanzibar is a place rooted in slavery, where Arabian sultans once lived and Swahili and Islamic influences blend together to create an exotic island paradise steeped in centuries of history.

On this day, our driver will pick you up from the airport and drop you off at your booked overnight Hotel. Have some time to relax and then meet our tour guide in the evening for a fascinating tour of the historic Stone Town.

Some must-see attractions in the town include the House of Wonders, Former Slave Market, Freddie Mercury House, the Old Fort, Darajani Market, and the SultanÔÇÖs Palace. After a city tour, head to the waterfront of Forodhani Garden and relax while the sun is setting.

Day 2: Prison Island, Nakupenda Sandbank, Sunset Cruise.

After breakfast at around 9 am you will be taken from your hotel and start this unforgettable day with a 30 minute boat cruise on the Indian Ocean to Prison Island.

Formerly owned by Arabs, this was used as a place of imprisonment for disobedient slaves. It was set up in 1893 as a Zanzibar central prison, thus the name ‘Prison Island’.

Today Prison Island is where you will be able to relax a bit and enjoy wonderful views after visiting the giant tortoises’ reserve, where you will admire and even feed these peaceful ancient creatures.  Here you will also have a chance to swim or snorkel around the coral reefs, admire colorful fish and attractive seashells.

In the early afternoon, take another 30 minute boat excursion to Nakupenda Island and sandbank.  Nakupenda means ‘I love you’, and you will feel loved there; gentle Powderly sand spilling over your feet while strolling and super-friendly personnel tending your needs.

Sunbathe, swim, and snorkel the crystal clear waters of the Indian Ocean, before enjoying enjoy your fresh seafood BBQ, drinks, and tropical fruits under the shade of built umbrellas.

Filled with energy for a new adventure depart Nakupenda and embark on boat cruise to shores for an hour break. After that, there is an optional sunset cruise at the Indian Ocean (5-7pm).

Dinner and overnight in stone town.

Optional Full Day Safari Blue Trip

If you are so much interested in snorkeling and spending your day in the blueness of the ocean, the Blue Safari trip is thrilling way to experience Zanzibar’s stunning marine life.

On a beautiful traditional wooden dhow, this adventure takes you on a journey through the crystal clear waters of the Indian Ocean in Menai bay, where you will have the chance to swim, snorkel, and discover some of the most beautiful coral reefs and the Sandbank on the Island.

The Blue safari Trip also includes Lunch; feast on a Swahili influenced seafood buffet that include Fish on coconut source, Rice, French Fries, Calamari, Lobster, Prawns, Octopus and other Zanzibar delicacies. You will also be served Fresh tropical fruits while you are on the sandbank, such as Pineapple, Watermelon, Banana and Mango.

The safari will start with a pick up from your hotel at 9 am. You will then drive to Fumba village where our sailing boat will be awaiting to you on the safari.  

You will visit a Baobab tree believed to be more than 500years old before sailing back to Fumba village and back to your hotel for dinner and overnight.

Day 3: Dolphins & Spice Farms Tour.

Today, you will depart from your hotel at 6 am to Kizimkazi (southern coast) village. Here, you will board your motorized boat to find playful Dolphins out in the open waters.

Swim with then if you can or otherwise watch them from the boat. Kizimkazi is the most popular Dolphin spotting location where you can see both Bottle-Nosed and Hump -Backed Dolphins.

At around round 9 am you will stop for breakfast or drive to Spice farms for lunch before exploring the farms. Experience the rare tropical fruits, spices and other rare species of plants that grow in Zanzibar. You will have a chance to eat, smell and taste different fruits and spices to learn why Zanzibar is called a spice Island.

After the tour, head to the Zanzibar Airport to catch your flight back home. Safe Travels!