MAFIA ISLAND

MAFIA ISLAND
Mafia Island, Tanzania, lies off the mouth of the Rufiji River in Southern Tanzania. It is one of the least developed parts of an undeveloped country, yet it has been, and continues to be, part of important historical processes. Although its spectacular marine life is becoming increasingly well known, especially since the setting up of the Mafia Island Marine Park, little other information is widely available.

Mafia, along with the other islands lying off the east coast of Africa, has shared in the long and interesting history of the area. The East Coast forms a part of the Indian Ocean littoral, and the peoples of this region have been traders and sea-farers for centuries. It is an area exceptional in Africa because it is mentioned in written accounts which go back as far as two thousand years.

Mafia's infrastructure is poor: it has electricity only in the district capital and in Utende, the main tourist area. There are few houses which have running water. Travel to the island is either by small aircraft from Dar es Salaam, at a cost which is beyond the reach of most islanders, The few roads on the island are in poor condition and there is a paucity of vehicles, which means local people rely primarily on bicycles or walking. Telecommunications until recently have been minimal with only a few radio-linked lines to the mainland and beyond. . The major cash crop, coconuts, While fishing has become increasingly important over the last couple of decades, it is restricted in the south of the island within the boundaries of the Marine Park

The oldest ruins on Mafia are located at Kisimani Mafia near to Kilindoni. Many of them have now been washed into the sea, but, according to the archaeologist Neville Chittick, who conducted excavations there in the 1950s, the earliest strata of mosques date from around the tenth and eleventh centuries. Another British archaeological expedition on Juani island in the 1950s uncovered coins dating from the thirteenth to the fifteenth centuries (Freeman-Grenville 1957). Some archaeologists consider Kua was built before that, while others attribute a later date.

KINASI LODGE

KINASI is a small, private lodge situated in a coconut and cashew plantation facing Chole Bay on Mafia Island. It provides a high standard of accommodation in only lanteen bungalows (one is a family unit with two bedrooms), each with a large verandah and ensuite bathroom. The bungalows have been constructed in rendered concrete block, with palm-leaf (makuti) roofs, and concrete foundations and floors. There is all-day mains electricity and hot and cold water supply from three permanent wells on the property. Rooms are not air-conditioned but are cooled by fans and the large shutter doors and windows.

The intention has been to create a resort that is relaxing and stylish, with a very personal feel. KINASI is beautifully furnished with antiques and hand-crafted furniture. The dining room is appointed with crockery and hand-blown glassware made specially as original works of art by East African artists.

Catering is based upon local seafood: fresh fish, prawns, crab, lobster, octopus and calamari, with fresh vegetables and fruit flown from the mainland. Breads, rolls, pizzas and variety of yoghurts, preserves and sauces are all home made, from traditional recipes. Seafood barbecues and Swahili cuisine are established KINASI customs.

Most of all there is tranquility and privacy in beautiful, natural surroundings, and friendly staff will do their best to look after you with service to your rooms, morning tea and coffee with fresh biscuits and cakes, sundowners and cocktails, delicious food and attention to any requests you may have. KINASI started as a private home, and that is how guests should feel - as if they are in their own home. So enjoy Mafia and this little retreat with various activities; the swimming pool, gardens and beach, and the relaxed atmosphere and good company.

Mafia Island is in the true sense an island paradise for the active beachcomber who is serious about enjoying the sea and islands, adventure divers, game fishermen, bird-watchers or just for simple feet-up relaxation. Be as active as you wish...or simply relax and do nothing.

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MAFIA ISLAND LODGE

The Mafia Island Lodge stands amidst tall palms on a sandy beach in Chole Bay, in the heart of the marine park near Utende village on South coast of Mafia. The main lodge has a relaxing atmosphere with a large open restaurant, bar and lounge area. Board games, table tennis and volleyball are also available. Other facilities include a gift shop, laundry service, excursions, snorkeling, sailing and scuba diving. 34 comfortable rooms are set among the coconut palms with their own veranda overlooking the bay. They are all self-contained with air conditioning. Twin and double beds are available. Among the 35 rooms there are 2 family rooms with a living room. Hot and cold water is available 24 hours a day.

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POLE POLE

Pole Pole is located in the Chole Bay area, near Utende village on the southeast coast of the Mafia Island Marine Park. It lies on the beach, within a tropical garden, overlooking a spectacular view of the Mafia Archipelago and the Indian Ocean. This is a low environmental impact resort with a state of-the-art phyto-purification plant which is a special process of treating wastewater to prevent environmental pollution. Pole Pole, considered one of the most exclusive eco-resorts in the world, is renowned for its great cuisine, unpretentious and laid-back atmosphere, warm but discrete hospitality. Balancing luxury and respect for local culture and environment it is the perfect place to relax after a safari and the ideal base for exploring the underwater wanders of Mafia Island. Accommodation 7 ‘Luxury bungalow suites‘, elegant and spacious, are set among the coconut palms overlooking the bay. The rooms are furnished with carved and antique pieces. * Twin and double beds * extra bed can be provided * Zanzibari bed * chairs * table * armchair * self-contained - the bathroom is spacious and comfortable * two ceiling fans Two bungalows are ‘family’ type with: * two rooms separated by the bathroom and a small corridor for privacy * large private verandahs * Zanzibari bed * chairs * table * armchair * self-contained - the bathroom is spacious and comfortable * two ceiling fans Cuisine The cuisine is a combination of diverse culinary traditions and cultures, with an Italian style touch of class. Swahili dinners are served once a week or on request. The resort caters for special dietary requirements whenever possible. Most of the food we serve is organically grown and bought on the island to help fishermen and farmers benefit from tourism development. Drinks A selection of alcoholic beverages, wines, beers, juices and cold drinks are always available at the bar. The bar remains open until all guests have retired. The ice served with drinks is safe and drinkable. Bottled water, served every day in jugs in the bungalows and available at the bar/restaurant, is drinkable and safe. Other facilities Library Massage Communication: - the use of mobile phones is limited

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CHOLE MJINI LODGE

Chole Mjini Eco-Lodge is located across from Mafia Island and set on a tiny islet called Chole. Chole is a historical Mecca having architectural ruins built by Shirazis from Persia, Khoja Ismaili Asians, Omani Arabs, and some with German modifications. The island is far from modernity as life is on any "semi-isolated" island but this remote Islet gives visiting guests an opportunity to immerse themselves in a world not seen before. Chole Mjini Eco-Lodge is built a few steps from the historical ruins. The accommodation is built intellectually and literally inside baobab trees and resonates a true ecological perspective. Chole Mjini has no phones, electricity or vehicles. The project is the combined effort of the de Villiers families and Emerson Skeens (partner - Emerson and Green Hotel in Zanzibar) who apart from attracting tourism to Chole have helped setup local playschools, kindergarten and primary schools to educate the Chole children as well as medical clinic to serve the healthcare needs of the local community. Guests wanting to visit Chole Mjini are assured of a peaceful, back to basic and a discerning holiday unlike any before. Rooms • There are seven naturally aired rooms built on trees, complete with necessary bedding and traditional décor. • All rooms have been built on stilts with local wood and material. • The bathrooms are shared with a long-drop design, and are located on the ground floor. • Showers are taken under the open skies. • Hot water is available boosted by a kerosene lamp. (Water at Chole Mjini is captured from the rain as well as extracted from the boreholes). Cuisine At Chole Mjini the atmosphere is relaxed and food is simply delicious. The meals are served under the thatched dining-lounge room prepared in local coastal style. There are no daily regiments or strict plans. Dinner normally brings the guests around at the central table where they can exchange the experiences of the day over a nice meal, which is hosted by the de Villiers. Activities • Relax on Chole Island beach. • Sightseeing i.e. boat-building, hand-manufacture of coconut coir rope, a protected species of fruit eating "flying foxes", etc. • Participate in the community-based activities. • Diving • Visit Maweni where coral rocks emerge from the bay surrounded by an extremely interesting reef. • See Fungo Marimbani, a strip of dazzling white sand, which appears during low tide, surrounded by crystal-clear water. • Visit Juani Blue Lagoon. A long channel linking the huge inland bay with the open sea

FACT ABOUT ZANZIBAR

ZANZIBAR HOLIDAY
Zanzibar beckons you with its picturesque views of romantic dhows with white sails, endless beaches fringed with palms, ancient ruins, exotic spices, and veiled women. The island has a thrilling history, which is reflected today in the architecture, culture and traditions of the Zanzibari people.

A combination of a Safari and beach holiday in Zanzibar can be arranged. We would be delighted to organise a Safari and Zanzibar Package for you. We offer exclusive Zanzibar Packages, Excursions and Cultural tour programs. A Special Offer of 14 days Safari and Zanzibar is available. Furthermore, we would be pleased to tailor make a package specifically to meet your exact requirements ranging from your personal interests, budget and accommodation, to make it affordable for you.
Zanzibar is purely magical!

Accommodation in ZanzibarAn exquisite choice of Zanzibar Hotels, Resorts, Bungalows and even Houses await you. (See Zanzibar map). Beach enthusiasts will have their fun too as there is an abundance of hotels/ resorts adjacent to beaches. The nature lover will find their haven on Chumbe Island just off the shores of Zanzibar. Here you will find and award winning eco lodge. Within Stone Town (A World Heritage Site), you will find the perfect spot for honeymooners, namely 236 Hurumzi with its fantastic architecture and traditional furniture as those used by the sultans from days gone by. Day Tours in ZanzibarZanzibar offers the tourist many highlights; they vary from environmentally friendly excursions tours in Zanzibar - cultural tours, Spice Tour, City Tour, Dolphin Tour, the famous Stone Town Tour, and Jozani Forest tour with its endemic Red Colobus monkey or explore remote islands in the Menai Bay. For example the Spice Tour, offers an in depth look into the variety of spices and their uses both in medicinal and cosmetic use (e.g. black pepper, cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, vanilla, to name but a few). These spices were introduced by the Sultans of Oman many centuries ago. Read more… Water SportsA wide range of water sports can be pre-booked. We recommend PADI diving in Zanzibar and Pemba. (See diving in Zanzibar). See: Tide Table NEW: Diving with whale sharks on Mafia Island. Eco Tourism A quintessential example of Eco tourism can be experienced here.(See: Chumbe Island) Are you an explorer? If so, we rent out self –drive and guide driven 4x4 vehicles, minibuses and motorbikes. Please enquire for rates in advance.

click here for:- 7 days Zanzibar Cultural Safari

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FACTS ON ZANZIBAR Zanzibar is an archipelago made up of Zanzibar and Pemba Islands, and several islets. It lies 25–50 km (15–30 mi) off the east coast of mainland Tanzania. It is made up of many islands, the main two being Zanzibar and Pemba. Zanzibar Island (known locally as Unguja, but as Zanzibar internationally) Zanzibar was once a separate state with a long trading history within the Arab world; it united with Tanganyika to form Tanzania in 1964. A major feature of Zanzibar is Stone Town (A World Heritage Site) – which dates back to the 19th century. Zanzibar remains a semi- autonomous state. HISTORY Arab traders discovered the Islands and used them as a base for voyages between Africa, Asia and India. The Arabs settled in Stone Town out of convenience using it as a point from which they could trade with the east coastal towns. They traded in Spices, Ivory, and Slaves. Plantations were developed to grow spices, hence the name ‘Spice Islands’ was coined. Zanzibar lured many traders, such as the Arabs, Chinese, Dutch, Greeks, Indians, Omanis, Persians, Portuguese, and eventually the British. The British were the ones who brought about the abolition of slave trade in the 19th century. POPULATION The combined population of Zanzibar including Pemba is approximately 1,000,000. RELIGION Religion was influenced by the Arabs, Persians, Indians, Portuguese, British and the African mainland. About 95% of the local population is made up of conservative sunni Muslims. The remainder are Hindu or Christian and some follow traditional beliefs. As well as many mosques, Stone Town hosts an Anglican and a Catholic Cathedral and a Hindu Temple. LANGUAGE The main language spoken is Kiswahili. English is widely spoken and many people also speak Arabic. With the influx of tourism one may find other European languages such as French and Italian being spoken by some local people, especially around the tourist areas. Learning a few Swahili words whilst in Zanzibar may prove helpful in making many friends. (See: Swahili Phrases) CURRENCY The local unit of currency is the Tanzania Shilling (Tsh). American dollars in cash or travelers cheques are acceptable in many places. Credit cards are still almost unknown in Zanzibar, and if you do manage to find a place to use them there will usually be a surcharge of at least 10%. Bartering about prices is common in Zanzibar market places. Hotel, restaurant and tour operator prices are generally non-negotiable. INSURANCE It is essential that adequate travel insurance is taken out at the time of confirming your booking. This should cover any medical situation (such as hospitalization), as well as cancellation, curtailment of arrangements and your baggage. When you travel with African Legends, you are automatically covered by our emergency evacuation insurance, through AAR. This guarantees all reasonable, practical assistance in obtaining emergency medical services/ evacuation to hospital should you suffer either severe illness, or from an injury whilst traveling with us. As this is for EMERGENCY EVACUATION only it does not cover the cost of treatment once in hospital and it in no way replaces your normal travel insurance, which must be purchased prior to travel. CLIMATE Zanzibar experiences tropical weather for most of the year, with the exception of April and May, which are seasonally subject to the long rains. Short rains can occur in November but are characterized by short showers, which do not last long. The tropical heat is seasonally often calmed by windy conditions, resulting in pleasant sea breezes, particularly on the North and East coast. Due to the nearness to the equator, the islands are warm all year round but officially summer and winter peak in December and June respectively. Zanzibar averages 7-8 hours of sunshine daily. SEASONS SUMMER - November to May Hot, some humidity with some rains in November, May and June. WINTER - June to October Warm with rains in June, otherwise sunny. BEST - December to March and July to October COMMUNICATION A direct international dialing service is available from the major hotels. Both local and long distance calls are metered on a time basis and every second counts in terms of costs. Internet facilities are available in most major towns. PHOTOGRAPHY Although film is available at most hotels and supermarkets, it is recommended that you bring film and batteries with you. WATER Drink only boiled or bottled water or canned drinks TIME DIFFERENCE GMT +3 ELECTRICITY Power system is 220-240 volts ac, plugs 13amp usually square 3-pin. CLOTHING When visiting Zanzibar, it is important for women to dress modestly out if respect for Muslim cultural beliefs, men should not wear shorts on the main island and women should wear dresses that cover the shoulders and knees. SHOPPING Locally crafted products can be found in shops and Bazaars in Stone Town. Local produce can be purchased in the local markets. Buying local goods benefits the community. PASSPORTS & VISAS All visitors must have a valid passport and visa to enter Tanzania. Visa fees vary according to the country you originate from. Visas can be obtained from Tanzania Diplomatic Representatives abroad. HEALTH REQUIREMENTS Visitors traveling to Tanzania need a valid international certificate for vaccination against Yellow Fever and Cholera. Anti-malaria medication is recommended when traveling within East Africa. Anti-malaria tablets are recommended to be taken a few days prior to arrival, during your stay and for a short period after returning home. Please consult your doctor no less than 10 days prior to travel. Pre-cautionary measures that you can take to prevent contact with mosquitoes include: - insect repellent, wear long sleeved clothing and trousers in the evenings, and sleep under a mosquito net. AIRPORT DEPARTURE TAX Airport departure tax on international flights is to be paid in Cash USD Only. In some cases some airlines include the departure Tax in their ticket price. Please check with your travel agent to avoid disappointment or confusion. Back to Top

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EXPERIENCENG THE MAGIC OF SERENGETI NATIONAL PARK

By Elisha Mayallah
 
When I travelled to the Serengeti National Park recently I returned feeling a bit overwhelmed because the animals, sights, sounds, vegetation, colours and hours fully packed with new adventures were larger than life. The park's name is derived from a Masaai word – Siringet - meaning endless plains.

 After the long rains had blessed the wilderness of the Serengeti, I settled in with a group of four adventure-seekers via a small aircraft from Arusha.

One lovely morning, atop our open-roof land cruiser, we spent hours driving through the vast park with our guide, just listening and looking. The wildebeest, zebra, and gazelles grazed on the lush, green grass that had sprouted after the rains.

Just as we motored off from the Naabi Hill gate we encountered a sea of wildebeest and zebra that seemed to stretch from horizon to horizon, a sight that would become common as we toured the park. We were treated first hand to the Serengeti migration – a most awe-inspiring spectacle.

The call of the wild
Watching the magical world unfold in the Serengeti Park, time seemed to fly. When we heard lions roar, our guide assured us that they were very close by, something that was fascinating and frightening in equal measure.

Pretty soon, we encountered a pride of lions that had taken shelter from the sun under a young acacia tree. They were rolling around in the grass, looking lazy and harmless, as lions do most of the day.

We also encountered herds of elands roaming the arid landscape among the zebras, gazelles, topis and hartebeests, while vultures spread their huge wings underneath the sun – offering a most spectacular sight. 

Despite the presence of predators, there was an infectious enthusiasm among the animals. We came across a grassy clearing where zebras, impalas and wildebeests all gathered to pass the time in the luscious lap of nature. Occasionally, a herd of giraffe gracefully glided across the road, in slow motion, their heads turned quizzically towards us.
 
The Serengeti offers not only adventure, but also peace and tranquillity. Flora and fauna has a magical way of banishing all anxiety. The buffalo stares at you with insulting candour and the leopard ignores you, wrapped in his magnificent, grand, sleekly fitting fur, and in the end, you cannot help but feel like you are one with the planet.

As the sky turned blood red, eagles on a dead tree proudly looked down on the world below. For the entire day, we too had been observers, taking in the magnificence that is the Serengeti, those 14,763 square kilometres of land that cover the world’s largest singular, eco-system.

Getting there:
The Serengeti National Park is nearly 335 kms from Arusha, stretching north to Kenya and bordering Lake Victoria to the west. There are scheduled flights that come in from Arusha, Lake Manyara and Mwanza. They are serviced by two airstrips, Seronera and Lobo.  Visitors who come in by road are advised to make use of the four-wheel-drive technology.
Accommodation:
There are four lodges, more than 10 luxury tented camps and several campsites scattered throughout the park.
Important information:
If you travel Tanzania for the wildebeest migration, arrive in February or March to see the calving before the migration begins. Thousands of calves are all born within a six-week period before the animals start to migrate.
One of the little known Serengeti National Park facts for visitors who have never been here is that you can tour the Serengeti by hot air balloon. This can be a thrilling way to explore the park and enjoy wildlife sightseeing while relaxing.
Park fees start from $50 and will vary based on visitor status.

Mount Kilimanjaro National Park

Mount Kilimanjaro the highest point in Africa is also one of the highest mountains in the world accessible to walkers. It lies in Tanzania just south of the Kenyan border and the area above 2750m. is a National Park. The park headquarters are located by the Marangu Park Gate, 5km. above Marangu. Park fees are payable through an officially approved agent (hotel or tour operator - beware of impostors), most of whom offer a full package. Park fees for the year 2008 are $60 per person per day entry fee plus $50 per person per night camping or hut fee. This fee, payable in foreign exchange only, covers entrance, mountain hut and camping fees only (no porter, guide or service fees) .
 
Porters and GuidesGuides are compulsory and are available at the Park Gate. It is best to make arrangements one day before the planned ascent. Porters are selected by the Guide, their wages are generally paid by your agent (Porters - $10 per day, Cooks - $15 per day, Guides - $20 per day). Guides and porters are self-sufficient; wages are low compared to park fees but they will negotiate high tips. Porters often prefer to carry equipment in sacks on their heads.
 
Access RoutesMARANGU (NORMAL) ROUTE trip
The tourist route, an easy walk as far as the Kibo Hut. The lower sections provide fine forest and moorland walking. The lunar landscape of the Saddle leads to the Kibo Hut; above this tedious scree leads to the crater rim. All huts on the route are manned and in radio contact with the Park Headquarters at Marangu. Just above the Park Gate the western route through the forest provides a longer, more difficult but beautiful walk along narrow paths beside streams. There is often no water at Kibo Hut and it either has to be carried from last water or melted from snow or ice if this is available. During peak periods the huts are sometimes overfull because of groups altering itineraries or for other reasons. At these times all facilities will be severely overstrained.
 Note: The path in the forest is often realigned on account of erosion. Above Mandara hut the main path has been realigned and now passes closer to Maundi Crater - a worthwhile viewpoint.
 MARANGU ROUTE (above KIBO HUT)
Easy walking up steep, tedious scree slopes to Gillman's Point then along the broad crater rim with good views over the caldera and of Mawenzi. A very early departure to arrive at sunrise at Gillman’s Point is recommended. The final section undulates and is occasionally snowy. No special equipment is required. Grade l.
 MWEKA ROUTE
A very direct and fast way down the mountain providing limited views across the Southern Glaciers. The track in the forest is often impassable even to 4WD vehicles. Beyond the roadhead the path is steep and slippery in parts. Above the Mweka Huts water must be carried. Sometimes a long walk is required at the Barafu Hut to find snow or ice for water.
 UMBWE ROUTE trip
A very strenuous walk up steep, slippery paths with many fallen trees to negotiate. The middle section follows a narrow spectacular ridge with magnificent views of the Great Barranco and Southern Icefields.
 MACHAME ROUTE trip
Machame village is served by a tarmac road. There is a park checkpoint at the start of the route. The walking is strenuous, initially up narrow, slippery paths through beautiful forest. It provides good access to the South Western Glaciers and the Western Breach.
 SHIRA ROUTE
Depending on its condition and the weather, this track provides an access route for 4WD vehicles to within 1 hour of the Shira Hut. The Shira Plateau is very beautiful with good views of the Western Glaciers. There are several fine minor summits to be climbed; the Shira Needle can be gained by a scramble and provides a nice viewpoint.
 LEMOSHO GLADES ROUTE
This magnificent variation to the Shira Route is as yet unspoilt and little used. It takes paths through forests rich in game south of the Shira Route. On day 3 the Machame Route is rejoined. Detailed description.
 RONGAI (OLOITOKITOK) ROUTE
This used to be the route used by the Outward Bound Mountain School at Oloitokitok in Kenya. The border is open during daylight hours but all park fees and arrangements must be made (via an agent) at the Marangu Gate before starting on the route. It is possible to arrange transport from Marangu to Naremoru / Rongai. Only a limited number of groups are allowed on the route at any time and it may not be used in descent. There are several big caves along the route, these are used by porters and tents should be carried. The "Outward Bound School" Hut is privately owned, no water or firewood in the vicinity. Allow 5 days for the traverse.
 
Walking on and around KiboSOUTH CIRCUIT
A superb traverse offering fine panoramas of the southern icefields and visiting some of the mountains most beautiful locations. The journey from Shira Hut to Horombo Hut or vice versa takes at least two days and is best broken at the Barranco Hut or at Karanga Valley. The section just east of the Great Barranco involves a short easy scramble.
 NORTH CIRCUIT
A very remote and rather tedious walk over endless screes. Fine panoramas northwards to Mount Kenya. Allow 3 hours from the Shira Hut to the Moir Hut. The next section to the Kibo, Mawenzi or Horombo Huts is best done in two days. Very limited water en-route.
 REUSCH CRATER AND ASH PIT
Easily reached from the East. Sulphur deposits and fumaroles are found inside this crater. To look into the Ash Pit it is best to go down into the crater. Descending into the Ash Pit involves scrambling over steep scree and poor rock.
 NORTHERN AND EASTERN ICEFIELDS
Though far from the main routes there is some magnificent ice scenery is to be seen here - well worth the effort and time.
 
Maps and Guidebooks1:100,000 Ordnance Survey map of Mount Kilimanjaro including 1:17,500 of Kibo and general information.
'Guide to Mount Kenya and Mount Kilimanjaro': comprehensive guidebook, available through the Mountain Club of Kenya.
'East Africa International Mountain Guide': available through West Col Productions, Goring, Reading, RG8 9AA, England. details
'Mount Kilimanjaro National Park': published by the Tanzanian National Parks and available only in Tanzania.

ARUSHA REGION

Arusha

 - Tanzania

Arusha

Arusha stands in the foothills of Mount Meru at an altitude of about 1,500m. It's a bustling town where every other vehicle is heading on safari. There are two airports nearby: Kilimanjaro International Airport, 40km northeast of town, and Arusha Airport, on the town's western fringes. Although the town is not usually a destination in itself, some travellers need to overnight here to make transport connections work. Here are our suggestions for an overnight stay in Arusha:

Arusha Coffee Lodge

In the middle of a working coffee estate, Arusha Coffee Lodge is a 10-minute drive from Arusha Airport. The lodge has 18 spacious, split-level chalets with timber interiors. Each has french doors onto a raised deck, whilst inside is a wood-burning fire – great on cold evenings. The lodge's restaurant is popular with locals and expats, eating under parasols in the shady garden, or by the dining room's fire. (Read more about Arusha Coffee Lodge…)

Rivertrees Country Inn

Thirty minutes northeast of Arusha, close to Kilimanjaro Airport, the owner-run Rivertrees Country Inn is a rural haven, where lush gardens lend an air of calm and harmony. The pool is inviting, and the more energetic might go horse-riding. There are 10 en-suite rooms, furnished in 'country' style: gingham fabrics, rocking chairs, vases of fresh roses and solid timber four-poster beds. Beside the water's edge, two River Cottages are larger, each with a comfortable lounge area, a log fire, a private deck and indoor/outdoor showers. Rivertrees also has a new, two-bedroom, exclusive-use villa with its own private gardens. (Read more about Rivertrees Country Inn…)

Mount Meru Game Lodge & Sanctuary

Mount Meru Game Lodge & Sanctuary has accepted visitors since 1959 as a means to fund its animal rescue and rehabilitation scheme. There are 17 en-suite bedrooms in simple painted buildings and a few varnished log cabins. All are individual in style, featuring wroughtiron beds, white linen, natural mats and tasteful touches. Each room has its own small veranda, but meals and fireside nightcaps take place in the main house. (Read more about Mount Meru Game Lodge & Sanctuary…)

Onsea House

Onsea House is a lovely, low-key option for an overnight stop in Arusha. Your hosts are the Janssens-Onsea family, who welcome you into their home as guests. The lodge is divided into two buildings opposite one another – the main house sits above the road and houses two bedrooms, the restaurant, bar and lounge. Below the road, a further house contains two rooms and in the garden, the outdoor pool. Onsea House has a simple style, a friendly atmosphere and some of the best food in Arusha. (Read more about Onsea House…)

Arusha National Park

Just outside Arusha, the beautiful Arusha National Park is often overlooked by travellers rushing to the more famous sights of the Ngorongoro Crater and Serengeti. However, with a little time, Arusha National Park offers some lovely walking in the foothills of Mount Meru and canoeing on the Momela Lakes, plus gentle game drives. If you have the time it is well worth a day or two.

The park is only137km², but includes a diverse range of habitats from mountane rainforest, to open savannah, alkaline lakes and even a volcanic crater. On clear days you get great views of Mount Meru, which is Africa's fifth highest mountain and within the parks boundary. You can also see across to Kilimanjaro - which is 50km away.

Within the park there are three broad areas to be found: Ngurdoto Crater (surrounded by forrest), the Momela Lakes (alkaline) and Mount Meru (lush forrest and bare rock). These are all at varying altitudes and as a result have very different vegetation – it is all this that helps to make this such a diverse park to visit.

Despite it's small size, Arusha National Park has a rich variety of wildlife. Within the park's three vegetation zones, many different kinds of animals can be found. Near the water, reedbuck and waterbuck can be spotted, while shy bushbuck and duiker keep to the forested parts of the park. Especially the Mount Meru system offers a vast diversity of larger mammal, such as leopard and hyena. Besides, almost 400 species of birds have been recorded in the park. Some of them are migratory and only present between October and April, others are permanent residents.

There are a range of activities to do in Arusha National Park. This includes walking safaris which are always accompanied by a ranger and last for a maximum of four hours, during which you would stop for a break at one of the park's lovely picnic sites. You can also explore the far reaches of the park by vehicle, taking in some of the lovely views and keeping an eye out for wildlife. Another great activity here and one not found in other safari parks in Tanzania, is a canoeing safaris which allows you to explore the Momela Lakes.

Hatari Lodge

Hatari Lodge is a quirky lodge located on the northern edge of Arusha National Park. It is named after the famous 1960s' blockbuster film, Hatari!, starring John Wayne, which was filmed in the surrounding area. It is run by its owners, Joerg & Marlies Gabriel, and makes a great base for exploring the park. Hatari has are nine bedrooms and the quality of the food and service is of a very high standard; we are very impressed with it

ZANZIBAR ISLAND

Zanzibar is a unique coral island lying in the Indian Ocean a short distance from Tanzania. With Pemba, and about 50 other islands, Zanzibar originally was an independent country until 1964 when it was united with Tanganyika to form Tanzania under President Julius Nyerere. Presently it has its own President and a degree of autonomy.


The island's history goes back many centuries. Its heyday came in the early 19th century when the Sultan of Muscat moved his court to Zanzibar. Spice cultivation was developed (particularly the clove tree), and the slave trade was at its height - Zanzibar became the most important town in East Africa.