EXPLORE TO TANZANIA

EXPLORE TO  TANZANIA

Welcome to Tanzania…”the land of adventure”

Karibu Tanzania – “the heart of Africa” it is Africa’s land of contrast, is a haven for spot enthusiasts; take in the thrill of abundant wildlife in over 16national parks, 38game reserves, big game viewing paradise, explore its heritage routes, trails and discover its unique history, authentic cultural experiences, frontier forts, mother nature has miraculously preserved fossils from some of our earliest ancestors, together with Stone Age tools and even prehistoric animal skeletons, as well as ancient rock painting art. This spectacular eco- tourism destination boast extremely rich biodiversity of national and international significance - with ten of Tanzania’s sixteen biomes (bio – geographic regions), over 7,700 endemic plants species found nowhere else on earth!

Many internationally recognized Important Bird Areas (IBA) and diversity of natural terrain offering unique wilderness and coastal experience. Tanzania offer diversity of outdoor attractions, great climate with wild temperature along the North to West (16 – 28 centigrade averages) easy accessibility, great friendly, value for money holidays packages with wide range of accommodation from 5-star hotels & lodges and comfortable home stays to camping caravanning and hikes huts, make it Tanzania’s number two adventure holidays destination in Africa after South Africa.

WHY TANZANIA IS UNIQUE IN AFRICA?

The United Republic of Tanzania is one of Africa’s most peaceful countries. Home to a flourishing democracy and prospering economy, the country is known for its peace and stability.

Within the borders of Tanzania co-exist approximately 120 ethnic group speaking languages representing all four major African language groups. These include Bantu speaking; the largest ethnic group in Africa migrated to eastern Africa at the same time that trade between Arabic – speaking people and coastal population was initiated in the first century (B.C.E), Nillotic – speaking – Maasai, Khoisan or “click” speaking hunter gatherers of southern Africa and Cushitic speaking from western part of Africa. These ethnic groups are united by the use of a common language – lingua franca – Swahili – as a strong sense of national community (Swahili language)

THE TANZANIA EXPERIENCE:

Tanzania, truly, is a safari destination without peer. The statistics speak for themselves; an unparalleled one – quarter of its surface area has been set aside for conservation purposes, with the world – renowned Serengeti National Park and incomprehensibly vast Selous game reserve heading a rich mosaic of protected areas that collectively harbor an estimated 20 percent of Africa’s largest mammal population. Tanzania’s daunting natural variety is mirrored by a cultural diversity embracing 120 distinct tribes; from the iconic Maasai pastoralists of the Great Rift Valley, Sukuma community – the largest Bantu in Tanzania (15% of all Tanzanians) to the Arab – influenced Swahili of the coast, to the Hadzabe hunter gatherers of Lake Eyasi.

   

So, how to define the experience offered by a country with highlights as unique and diverse as Mt.Kilimanjaro,Zanzibar,Lake Victoria, Lake Tanganyika,  Serengeti, Mahale, Ruaha and Selous?  An experience that might for some entail long days hiking in sub –zero conditions on the upper slopes of Africa’s most alluring peaks; for others a once – in – a lifetime holidays or safari followed by a sojourn on an idyllic Indian Ocean beach; for others still the thrill of eyeballing habituated Chimpanzee, on diving in the spectacular offshore reefs around Mafia island, or backpacking through the time – warped ports and crumbling ruins of the half – forgotten south coast?

Well, the one thing that does bind Tanzania’s diverse attractions is, of course, its people who take justifiable pride in their deeply ingrained national mood of tolerance and peacefulness. Indeed, Tanzania, for all its ethnic diversity, is practically unique in Africa in having navigated a succession of modern political hurdles – the transformation from colonial dependency to independent nation, from socialist state to free – market economy, from mono-partyism to full – fledged democracy – without ever experiencing sustained civil or ethnic unrest.

Plan to visit in Tanzania?

The best of your holidays or Safari begin with thorough your planning to visit Tanzania. You are welcome to the land that not only exquisitely beautiful, but full of unique tourism attractions, friendliness of its people, coupled with the graceful charming, the land will enchant you beyond your imagination.

Wherever you desire, whether memorable holidays, safari, a trek the mountains, a languid quiet stay at one of the many finest beaches, explore the million of wildlife experience, birdlife or escape to a remote and hidden or private place in Tanzania, the Africa Unique  Travels & Safaris  is your answer!

Tanzania Visas

Most visitors require visas with the exception of citizens of certain countries of the Commonwealth before they can enter in Tanzania on holiday or to work. It is advisable to obtain them in advance from Embassies and High Commissions as several airlines insist on them prior to departure. They can however also be obtained, on arrival, at all points of entry. Requirements may change so you are advised to contact the appropriate diplomatic or consular authority before finalizing your travel arrangements. Although part of the union of Tanzania, Zanzibar remains independent, so passports Tanzania visas are required even on a day`s visit.

Health Issues & Vaccinations

Prior to travelling abroad for an extended period you should consider consulting your doctor in order to discuss known or possible health risks. This is particularly important if you are visiting a tropical region or a country where the conditions exist for the spread of infectious diseases. If you take medication on a regular basis you should ask your doctor to prescribe an amount adequate for your visit and bring it with you.

Certain diseases are prevalent in particular world regions. Malaria is present in parts of Africa, Central and South America, Asia and the Pacific. Some diseases or illnesses - e.g. cholera, dysentery, hepatitis A, typhoid, various types of food poisoning - can be contracted from consumption of contaminated food or water, especially in areas where standards of hygiene are low. If you are visiting such areas you should avoid certain foodstuffs, particularly dairy products salads, seafood and untreated water.

Ultimate Tanzania | How to get there?

NEAREST INTERNATIONAL AIRPORTS TO NORTHERN TANZANIA:

Note: All costs are approximate and change without notice, please contact us for the latest information.

Dar-es-Salaam International Airport (JKDAR):

Flights operating are British Airways, KLM Royal Dutch Airline, Ethiopian Airline, Emirates Airline, Turkish Airline, Swiss Air, Kenya Airways, Rwanda Air  and South African Airways.

Transfer time:

Airport to Dar es Salaam City - An approximate 30 minutes drive. 

Airport to Harbour (Sea port for Hydrofoil Boats to Zanzibar) - approximate 30minutes drive. 

Dar es Salaam to Arusha by road takes 8 to 9 hours with the Luxury Express Tourist Bus.

Dar es Salaam to Zanzibar with a Hydrofoil Boat takes approximate 90minutes. 

Airport Transfer Cost:

Airport to Dar es Salaam City Centre or the Harbour (Sea port for Zanzibar Hydrofoil Boats) fromUS$30.

Dar es Salaam to Arusha by road - Tourist Bus from US$25 per person one way.

Dar es Salaam to Zanzibar by Hydrofoil Boat - From US$40 per person one way

Kilimanjaro International Airport (JO):

Flights which operate are LM Royal Dutch Airline, Turkish Airline, South Africa Airline,  Ethiopian Airline and Air Tanzania.

Transfer time: Kilimanjaro Airport to Arusha town: approximate 1hour drive. 

Airport transfer cost: From US$85 per vehicle - sits up to six people.

Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) - Nairobi

Flights operating are British Airways, Sabena, KLM Royal Dutch Airline, Ethiopian Airline, Emirates Airline, Gulf Air, Swiss Air, Kenya Airways, Air Tanzania, Regional Air and South African Airways.

Transfer time:

Airport to Nairobi City - Approximate 20minutes. 

Airport to Arusha town - By road: Approximate 4 and a half hours drive with 30minutes clearance at the Namanga Border (Kenya / Tanzania Border)

Airport Transfer Costs:

Private Transfer from the Airport to Nairobi City: From US$40 per vehicle (sits up to 6 people).

Private Transfer Nairobi to Arusha Town: From US$290per vehicle -sits up to 6 people. Express Shuttle Bus from Nairobi to Arusha - Two departures daily, at 08h00 and 14h00. Cost: US$20 per person

Zanzibar International Airport (ZNZ):

Flights which operate, are Ethiopian Airline, Gulf Air, Kenya Airways, Air Tanzania, Zan Air, Precision Air, Eagle Air and Coastal Air.

Transfer time:

Airport to Zanzibar Stone town or Harbour (Sea port for Pemba or Dar es Salaam Hydrofoils) - approximate 20minutes drive.  Airport to Beach Resort - Approximate 1 hour. 

Zanzibar to Dar es Salaam by Sea - Hydrofoil Boats: 90 minutes. 

Airport Transfer Cost:

Airport to Zanzibar Stone town or Harbour (Sea port for Zanzibar Jetfoil) From US$35. Airport or Stone town to Beach Resorts From US$65 per vehicle - sits up to 6 people Dar es Salaam to Arusha by road Tourist Bus from US$25 per person one way.

Dar es Salaam to Zanzibar by Hydrofoil Boats - From US$40 per person one way.

DOMESTIC AND INTERNAL FLIGHTS:

Air Tanzania, Fast jet Air, Precision Air, Eagle Air, Zan Air, Coastal Air, Regional Air run scheduled from between Dar es Salaam, Zanzibar, Arusha and to the various Regional airports and National Park airstrips.

Planning a holiday in Tanzania; safari planning, seasons and cost.

The initial planning opener for the perfect African luxury safari is most likely to be within a fixed pre-determined time frame such as personal dates for example vacation dates from work, school holidays or perhaps to celebrate a special occasion such as a honeymoon or milestone birthday. Also pre-decided are those events which may be the very reason to search out holidays in Tanzania, like the spectacular Migration in the Serengeti national park in Tanzania. Those with an idea in mind of what they want to see or do on and African holiday may have to make some compromises in terms of travel dates or budget.

African holidays enjoy “spring weather” during June to December the complete opposite of the northern hemisphere. Detailed discussion is therefore necessary to determine the most ideal holidaying season for each interested traveler. Unfortunately more and more frequently, due to the advent of global warming, no absolute guarantees can be given that weather conditions will be present at the expected times and the traveler has to be prepared for the whims of nature during their planned African holiday. That said, for African holidays specialist guidance can bring about the best estimate in terms of weather and can help to manage expectations. Luxury safari accommodation is as individual as the visitor but again, with experienced help and provision of the most up to date details the traveler can make an informed choice for their time in Tanzania, safari lodges, hotels and safari camps are plentiful and offer an array of style.

Whilst some may prefer the comforts of a luxury safari lodge for their safari vacation those more adventurous and who want feel even closer to the wild can opt for tented accommodation – although hardly a camping option as these luxury safari tents are equipped with en-suite bathrooms and private decks! Another unique option, for example, would be to sleep outside under the sparkling African night sky on the Sasakwa luxury lodge in Serengeti or Ngorongoro lodge - Star Beds in Northern Tanzania. How far you go is determined by your own adventurousness – you could go on a walking safari with mobile fly camping or a camel assisted walking safari accompanied by Maasai warriors in Tanzania.

Those nervous in small boats would not be offered accommodation where transfer is required by small craft. Likewise, those with a dislike for flying would not enjoy a trip reliant on many light aircraft transfers. For a family safari you are likely to be best off with a safari lodge that caters specifically for families or a private mobile camp in the Serengeti shadowing the migration. Once a decision is made as to when and where there comes the discussions around cost and there will always be many opportunities in terms of range and compromise, for example, a desire to Safari in Western Tanzania circuit with a set of dates in the early part of the year, January to March, would see the weather being wetter which perhaps is not ideal, however, the costs of this season are lower and this may make the proposition more attractive.

Obviously the great migration in the Serengeti is going to sit squarely in high season but if the driving force is to witness this amazing event first hand then consideration may have to be taken in terms of scaling down the type of luxury safari camp and perhaps limit the transfers involved in the whole trip. Each variant can have its positive side. In order to get your safari in Africa just right it is important to thoroughly discuss through with a safari operator who will apply their in depth knowledge.

Safari Dreams to Reality

Enjoying an Africa safari is a dream that many people share, and some are lucky enough to make their dream a reality and make it happen! If you are thinking of planning an Africa safari trip, then you will need to consider the style of trip that you are after. There are lots of different types of Africa safari available, but many people like to make their trip as luxurious and relaxing as possible. Going on a safari holiday is a once in a lifetime experience for many, so you might want to make the most of it by finding luxurious accommodation and transport. Choosing a high quality Africa safari can help you to really relax and enjoy your time away.

There are a wide variety of luxurious Africa safaris or safari budget trips for you to choose from when you are planning your holiday. When you begin your planning, think carefully about the style of hotel or accommodation you would like to stay in during your visit. Some trips will feature stays in top local hotels with luxurious amenities, such as on-site restaurants and spas. Alternatively, you may want to get a little closer to nature by staying in a tent or cabin away from the larger, more populated areas. It is also possible to visit other areas such as cities and beaches, so think carefully about whether you would like to incorporate some of these sights into your trip as well. A safari trip will generally involve some travel, and your trip may require you to visit a few different places to ensure that will see a good variety if wildlife. This can be incredibly difficult to organize, so it is often simpler and quicker to choose a travel company that will take care of all of this for you. Any good safari operator should be able to offer a wealth of knowledge and experience to help you choose the perfect trip.

Before you book, it is a good idea to have a browse around and get an idea of the type of holiday you would like; decide on the places and experiences that are the most important to you to help you choose. Once you have an idea of the style of holiday that you would like, it can be a good idea to contact any safari travel companies that you like the look of. They should have experienced staff who can answer any questions you may have and give you advice on how to get the most out of your holiday. They will be able to give you advice on the different styles and types of safari or holiday available, and should be able to find you the best deal on the safari experience that you are looking for. They will also be able to give you advice and tips for travelling safely if you will be booking your first safari; you may need to wear certain clothes or bring essential medical items with you to keep you comfortable and healthy during your African safari trip.

Lodges

Choose from three to five star quality accommodation and experience Africa in style. Spend your days exploring in a safari vehicle and return to enjoy all the comforts offered by world-class hotels with en-suite bathrooms, mouth-watering cuisine, swimming pools and laundry services.  

Luxury Tented Camps

Quite literally 5-star treatment in the heart of the bush with everything laid on from private bathrooms with hot showers, gourmet meals to swimming pools and luxurious lounges.

Adventure Camping

“Rough-it” and camp under the stars as you feel the wild pulse of Africa seduce your soul. All meals are prepared by a cook giving you time to truly unwind.

Fly-in Safaris

Take to the air and avoid long driving distances; enjoy magnificent aerial views of the Great Rift Valley with its rivers, lakes and mountains. Most of Tanzania’s National Parks and Game Reserves have well-maintained airstrips in the immediate vicinity of tourist lodges, and several private aviation companies offer daily scheduled flights as well as charters.    

       

Specialized Tours

These embrace botanical, biological and ornithological tours as well as visits to the Chimpanzees of Mahale National Park, Katavi and Gombe Stream.

Sportive Trips

why stick to the usual ways of getting around when you can do something completely different and experience the world from the back of a camel or the seat of a canoe. Africa Unique Travels & Safaris invites you to see Tanzania from a new perspective.

Walking, Hiking and Trekking Safaris

A guided walk gives you the opportunity to stretch your legs whilst experiencing the sights, sounds and smells of nature – take a breath of fresh air and a close up look at the flora and fauna.

Depending on your level of fitness we can guide you up mountain peaks* for challenging treks, lead you through the fairyland of the Usambara Mountains or, day hikes to fascinating destinations such as coffee farms and the Ngorongoro Crater Highlands.

*Mountain peaks include the famous Kilimanjaro, the smaller sister Mt. Meru the still-active volcano of Oldonyo L’engai.  

 

Quad and Mountain Biking

Travel on quiet roads and meandering country paths by bicycles, you will meet the native people, witness their customs and learn how they live. Kisesa Eco & Cultural Programme’ cycling trips have several stops en-route, so, our clients may appreciate the local scenery stop for a leisurely breakfast/lunch. If time allows, they can even play and meet with locals.  Bike to the villages or islands of the most Sukuma majestic adventure and get an opportunity to view wildlife at close range in the bush to capture the true feeling of Africa!

Biking trips have several stops en-route, so you may appreciate the local scenery, meet with local friends and finally manage your physically fit of your body.

This is a stunning ride accompanied by beautiful scenery and classic African dirt road path heading – north – west of Kisesa to Kayenze - Mwanza old port passed alongside the villages where you will keep your eyes peeled for African villages and pass through picturesque villages inhabited by diverse ethnic groups and get to observe local people working in their fields, grazing the cattle on the Sukuma plains, while on adventure trips you will get to meet humble local people giving approving smiling glances  and at end  reached at Kayenze –Mwanza old port. Here we will regroup and then make our way together to camp at the Lakeshore under the shade of Acacia tree.

 

Balloon Safari

Soar silently over the Serengeti Plains or the vast Selous Game Reserve and see with an eagle eye as you head into the sun-rise. After this breathtaking experience savour a Champagne English breakfast cooked by a chef over the balloon’s burner. 

 

Canoe Safari

The Lake Victoria and Momella Lakes have secret shores accessible only by canoe. Explore these hidden places as you glide across the shallow waters.

Camel Safari

Saddle-up bedouin-style and head into the Savannah on your mobile Rock of ages accompanied by your Maasai guide through the Maasai steppe.       

  

Culture & Historical Tours

Due to its colourful and ancient past Tanzania has many cultural and historic attractions that never fail to impress. A cultural walk  trip to meet and greet and making  new friends, listen to stories of the past, explore Sukuma lifestyle and interact with local people which will give you the flexibility you need to enjoy your tour in the Sukumaland at the heart of Sukumaland…..Kisesa eco & cultural program (close to Bujora Sukuma Museum)

Visit Sukuma ancestors and meet these proud herdsman/warriors in their traditional way of living. A unique lifestyle not to be missed.

  

Visit Bushmen lifestyle at Lake Eyasi

the Hunter gatherer Hadzabe tribe in Lake Eyasi and the Datoga people of Mang’ola live in a simple, traditional manner which has remained unchanged over centuries.  

Historical Sites

Rock Paintings go back over two millennia and extend over an area of approximately 2336 sq kms. The most extensive sites are to be found at Kondoa Irangi. Many of the paintings reflect the spirituality of Stone Age man.

Kayege Historical Site

Slave trade route centre in the western Tanzania. This is small village located to north –west of Mwanza city, more famous in the past than the present; it is part of the Sukuma Kingdom, sometimes also called Buchambi. This is the colonial Sukumaland comprised 52 separate are independent kingdoms (chiefdoms) among which one of the smallest village which Burton and Speke who were travelling towards Lake Victoria search for Source of Nile River. When Kageye come to be known to the outside the world as a main station of slave trade in western route, here at Kageye all the slaves from Karagwe,Kagera,Buganda and  Ukerewe island were sold here before start long caravan to coastal area of Bagamoyo and Zanzibar.

Oldupai Gorge

the ‘Cradle of Mankind’ has yielded abundant fossil material dating back at least two million years. It was here (1959) that Mary and Louis Leakey discovered the remains of Nutcracker Man. Nearby, in Laitoli, (1979) Mary Leakey discovered the footprints of hominids which are estimated to be over three million years old. On leaving the interesting museum, your driver guide will show you the mysterious shifting sands.  

Geological Tours

Tanzania is rich in precious gems, not least of which is the exquisite blue Tanzanite which is found nowhere else in the world. Another treasure is the Tanzanian Gold – a glowing yellow stone of rare appeal. A visit to Mererani Tanzanite Mines in Arusha, Kahama and Buzwagi Gold Mines and Mines won’t fail to fascinate.  

Leisure Beach Holidays

Tanzania is not only about game viewing and hikes; it offers also incredible beaches, luxurious beach resorts and a fascinating history with eclectic architecture dating as far back as the original Arab settlers. Africa Unique Travels & Safaris encourage you to take some time to acquaint yourself with Tanzania’s marvels.   

Zanzibar 

the aroma of cloves and other spices hangs in the air of this exquisite island which is still predominantly Islamic and has a wonderful market atmosphere. Paradise on Earth, the beaches are sun-drenched and the reefs ensure a profusion of marine life.

Pemba 

'Al Jazeera Al Khadra' - the Green Island, together with Mafia and Zanzibar forms the Spice Islands archipelago. Not opened to foreigners until the mid-1980, Pemba is close to the occult and a centre for traditional medicine. The Ngezi forest is home to the Pemba Flying Fox, the biggest fruit bat in the world.    

Pangani 

A former hub of the Arabic slave-trade this historic town is located on the shores of the Indian Ocean, at the mouth of the Pangani River (sets the barrier between the two, salt and sweet water). It remains an important centre of commerce as it is a significant producer of sisal, maize, and bananas.

Saadani National Park is the only park where the Bush meets the beach. Located along the coast line of the Indian Ocean, the park contains a unique combination of terrestrial wildlife and marine, flora and fauna. Hence, it is one of the few parks in Africa where Big game has been strolling on the beach.

Safari Dreams to Reality

Enjoying an Africa safari is a dream that many people share, and some are lucky enough to make their dream a reality and make it happen! If you are thinking of planning an Africa safari trip, then you will need to consider the style of trip that you are after. There are lots of different types of Africa safari available, but many people like to make their trip as luxurious and relaxing as possible. Going on a safari holiday is a once in a lifetime experience for many, so you might want to make the most of it by finding luxurious accommodation and transport. Choosing a high quality Africa safari can help you to really relax and enjoy your time away.

There are a wide variety of luxurious Africa safaris or safari budget trips for you to choose from when you are planning your holiday. When you begin your planning, think carefully about the style of hotel or accommodation you would like to stay in during your visit. Some trips will feature stays in top local hotels with luxurious amenities, such as on-site restaurants and spas. Alternatively, you may want to get a little closer to nature by staying in a tent or cabin away from the larger, more populated areas. It is also possible to visit other areas such as cities and beaches, so think carefully about whether you would like to incorporate some of these sights into your trip as well. A safari trip will generally involve some travel, and your trip may require you to visit a few different places to ensure that will see a good variety if wildlife. This can be incredibly difficult to organize, so it is often simpler and quicker to choose a travel company that will take care of all of this for you. Any good safari operator should be able to offer a wealth of knowledge and experience to help you choose the perfect trip.

Before you book, it is a good idea to have a browse around and get an idea of the type of holiday you would like; decide on the places and experiences that are the most important to you to help you choose. Once you have an idea of the style of holiday that you would like, it can be a good idea to contact any safari travel companies that you like the look of. They should have experienced staff who can answer any questions you may have and give you advice on how to get the most out of your holiday. They will be able to give you advice on the different styles and types of safari or holiday available, and should be able to find you the best deal on the safari experience that you are looking for. They will also be able to give you advice and tips for travelling safely if you will be booking your first safari; you may need to wear certain clothes or bring essential medical items with you to keep you comfortable and healthy during your African safari trip.