Traveling with JALE - Tanzania

Traveling JALE with TANZANIA

TANZANIA PLACES STAY to in

Tanzania has no shortage of options for a luxury adventure, with some of the best luxury lodges and camps in the world. That said, there are plenty of “lemons” over- advertised and under-delivered, which is why we make it our priority to personally check every hotel & lodge we recommend.

TAASA Lodge

Located on the northern edge of the Serengeti in Tanzania, is nestled on a ridge within a private concession far away from the crowds of tourists. Thoughtfully designed and tastefully decorated, TAASA’s main lodge is finished with a combination of precious timbers and large picture windows. In the main lodge is the dining room where most breakfasts, lunches and dinners are served. The main lounge, with its opulent settees and indoor fireplace, is located on a second level next to the lounge bar, with a selection of fine wines and spirits. A large outdoor patio with fire pit (locally known as the African or Bush TV) and lounge chairs provides the perfect venue for aperitifs and hors d’oeuvres or simply for reading, relaxing and meeting other guests.

You’ll feel right at home between game drives in one of TAASA’s luxurious and spacious en-suite tents. Expertly appointed, each one seamlessly blends modern comforts with uniquely African accents.

Enjoy stunning views of the Lobo Valley from the serenity of your private verandah or curl up with a good book in your own cozy sitting area, beautifully furnished with a large sectional couch and desk. A raised sleeping area features either a king or twin sized beds. En-suite bathrooms are complete with a stone shower, double vanity, and hair dryer, along with sumptuous robes and towels – a touch of indulgence in the bush.

Built seamlessly within the greenery that surround the main lodge terrace, our swimming pool is a spectacular addition to the property.

Meals are offered inside the main lodge, outside ‘el fresco’ on the terrace, or on your private veranda outside your tent upon request.

A large outdoor patio with fire pit and lounge chairs provides the perfect venue for aperitifs and hors d’oeuvres. Or enjoy a cool cocktail while soaking in TAASA’s new infinity pool overlooking the Lobo Valley.

TAASA is an ultimate one-stop destination for all your Safari needs. From game drives (nighttime included!) to starlight dinners in the open area, they have it all. Worth every penny.

KUBU KUBU LODGE

Kubu Kubu is the latest addition to the portfolio of properties of Tanganyika Wilderness Camps. This camp is strategically located to ensure that all areas of the Serengeti are within reach of their guests, including legendary locations like the famous Maasai kopjes, the Museum of Olduvai Gorge, Seronera and the Grumeti River.

It has been designed with a modern African decorative style that creates a fresh and bright atmosphere, but very cozy and with the right amount of luxury. Guests can attend to the show of the Great Migration from the comfort of their tents.

Elegant tents built on raised wood platforms with an en-suite facilities and an outside shower. After a day on safari guests can enjoy a refreshing shower under the stars. Each tent has its own private terrace from where to enjoy the landscape, the environment, and stargaze at night. The family tent consists in two tents interconnected and a shared bathroom and private porch.

The option of just an outside shower was a surprise, but the water is hot and the experience is lovely. The main building includes a lounge and dining room with a large terrace overlooking the Serengeti plains. The premises includes an area to relax with comfortable sofas, outside and inside restaurant and a swimminpool.In the evening a camp fire is lit and guests can enjoy a cocktail whilst watching the sun go down. One of a kind experience.

NOMAD ENTAMANU - NGORONGORO

Their take on this wildlife Shangri La is wilder, woolier and so much more absorbed.

Here, you define your own Ngorongoro, off the beaten track, in Maasai territory. Following one of the world’s most stunning private drives, you come up to a dizzying edge of elemental Africa with panoramic views spinning forward into the Crater and back to the Serengeti plains. This is much more than a great vantage point for visiting the Crater, this is where we live the Ngorongoro life.

Definitely off the beaten path, this lodging was one of the best places we chose to stay while in Tanzania. Mohamed, the camp manager, was very cognizant of everything we could have needed. The rooms are gorgeous, the food isdelicious, the staff is extremely friendly and responsive. Then there is the view... every single room faces the crater so that as the sun slowly rises in the morning you can watch it from the comfort of your room or the lounge. You do not want to miss it.

This susttainability built camp is a refuge from the formidable relemnts that surround it.

The QUARTERS include:

Four timber, glass and stretched-canvas rooms

Two two-bedroom family ready rooms

All rooms with crater views

Serengeti views from the camp

En-suite bathrooms throughout Hot and cold running water

Flushable toilets

Double basins

View of Ngorongoro Crater from Nomad Entamanu Lodge

LEMALA MPINGO RIDGE LODGE

Lemala properties are an authentic collection of intimate tented camps, inspiring lodges and luxurious villas in Northern Tanzania and Uganda.

These properties are located in the heart of the wilderness, allowing you to connect deeply with the environment, while still experiencing supreme comfort and service.

Open game-drive vehicles, professional guides, firstclass cuisine and year-round game viewing are hallmarks of a Lemala stay. With properties in Arusha, Tarangire, Ngorongoro, the Serengeti and the River Nile, Lemala offers an authentic safari experience throughout the famed Northern Circuit; a naturally splendid region of Tanzania and one of the most celebrated wildlife areas in Africa, as well as in a unique location on the Nile in Uganda.

Lemala Mpingo Ridge sits on top of an escarpment with sweeping views across the perennial Tarangire River and valley below and matches the same outstanding standards of comfort and service as the other properties in Lemala’s collection.

Being the sixth largest national park in Tanzania, Tarangire remains slightly off the main safari circuit but is a terrifically scenic park featuring classic African savannah, green hills, woodlands and rivers and is especially famous for its large herds of elephants, superb birdlife and giant baobab trees.

Lemala Mpingo Ridge you enjoy a real sense of wilderness and excellent game viewing, and it’s both a relaxing standalone destination and a great place to start a safari that also combines Lemala properties in the Ngorongoro Crater and Serengeti.

RIVERTREES COUNTRY INN

Set in Northern Tanzania just outside the bustling safari town of Arusha, Rivertrees looks out toward Mt Kilimanjaro, and is perfectly situated for exploring the abundant nature reserves that this region is home to.

The inn is a charming country estate that was once an old coffee farm, and still retains the nostalgic air of a well-loved homestead. Sprawling ten acres of fertile greenery, the grounds are a natural extension of Mt Meru’s sloping foothills, and offer a sanctuary for the birds and wildlife indigenous to the area.

Elegantly rustic cottages are dotted along the river and in thickets of tall trees, while lush lawns and birdsong make for a peaceful and picturesque setting. Set in the heart of an area rich in nature reserves, montane forests and vibrant village culture, the scope for exploration is endless.

The restaurant concocts tasty meals of garden-fresh ingredients and old family recipes, as well as oven-fired pizzas and the best of the region’s locally grown coffees. Delicious candle-lit dinners are served by the warmth of the fireplace, or under the stars and the watchful eyes of resident owls. Rivertrees combines unpretentious comfort with subtle accents of style to create a timeless pause in a traveler’s journey, and a sense of warmth and genuine welcome.

TULIA BOUTIQUE HOTEL & SPA

The heart of Tulia Hotel (Swahili for ‘Relax’) philosophy is to create unique experiences around individual guests, providing them with tranquil hide away. the 23-rooms.

Tulia is the perfect oasis for guests looking for a private and peaceful retreat. From its Africanised architecture to its cosy and aesthetically pleasing interior, Tulia Hotel is a ‘highly individualised property’.

Tulia Hotel has an heavenly Spa designed to rejuvenate and renew the mind and body.

Spacious room with exquisite decor, equipped with all the details expected of the hotel, including a free WiFi and a delicious breakfast.

This is our choice of a hotel every time we come to Arusha.

DESTINATION CHOOSING YOUR

ChoosingDestination your

Do you want to travel but not really sure where you should go? Or maybe you are looking for a little clarity and inspiration to get your trip planning started? We’ve got you covered! Here are the questions you should ask yourself and 5 tips on where you can go to find and choose your travel destination that is right for you.

Everyone wants their trip to be a success, and that starts with a right-fit destination. Choosing one, though, can be overwhelming. Especially in our past-pandemic world.

This can happen whether you’re planning your first trip or you’re a seasoned traveler. We will break the process down into smaller pieces to sort out what’s practical (or not) and awaken your travel inspiration!

Choosing your Travel Destination: The Basics: Time, Who, Weather, Experinces & Budget.

View of Tarangire National Park from Lemala

Mpingo

Ridge Lodge

First, how much time do you have?

Are you thinking about a long weekend getaway, a 2-week trip, extended travel, or something in between? Depending on where you live and the amount of time you have to travel, certain destinations will make more sense than others.

Also, remember to budget in the time for time adjustment and altitude adjustment where applicable. Some destinations require 1-2 days to integrate into a new place.

Who are you traveling with? Are you traveling as a couple, with children, for a girl’s/guy’s trip, or taking a solo adventure?

The people you travel with or the lack thereof might make specific places and experiences more practical than others. You have to ask what kind of destination would be enjoyable for everyone traveling.

If you’re traveling solo, is it your first time or have you been on your own before? Are you looking for an experience out of your comfort zone? Or would you prefer to keep things easy for yourself by taking a tour?

There’s no right or wrong answer. Just follow what makes sense and feels right for your situation.

What kind of weather suits your travel style?

Do you want to sightsee when it’s warm or work on your tan? Do you prefer cooler temperatures and hope to see a perfect winter white landscape?

Obviously, your weather preference can help narrow down possible travel destinations based on when you intend to travel. Keep in mind that traveling during peak seasons comes with higher prices. As in, a LOT higher in some destinations.

Would you be ok traveling during a shoulder season in order to save money?

In our experience, more often than not, the weather is pleasant, and the difference is hardly noticeable. You do have less hotel and open attraction options though. Something to keep in mind.

On the upside, fewer people visit during the shoulder season, which means you’ll be less affected by crowds. I prefer visiting Europe in the off-season exactly for this reason.

What kind of journey or travel experience do you want?

What do you hope to gain from your travels? What will your travel companions gain from the trip? What experiences do you want to have with your travel companions, or if solo, on your own? How do you want to remember this trip? Is there a lasting impact you’re hoping for?

If your answer is having downtime and spending time together, the options don’t just end at a beach or a mountain-top retreat.

Understanding the type of journey or experience you want is the essence of choosing the right destination and making your trip a success. Too often, people are heard saying “I need a vacation from my vacation.” It doesn’t have to be this way.

Travel can be so fulfilling if you take the time to plan a meaningful getaway that meets the needs, hopes, and wants of you and your travel companions. But, when you choose your travel destination because it’s where you think you should take your kids or where everyone else you know goes, your trip can end up feeling lackluster and not worth your time and money.

What is your budget?

Contrary to a common believe, you certainly don’t need to be rich to travel, but you also want to feel comfortable with the destination you choose, the seat class you fly in, and where you’re staying without blowing a hole in your budget.

Questions to ask yourself:

Are you a budget traveler or a luxury traveler?

Will you fly coach or only in business or first class?

Will you stay in a hotel like this or like that? Do you prefer boutique hotels? Or will you stay in a vacation rental?

Will your destination require specific travel gear that you’ll need to factor into the overall costs?

If you participate in airline or hotel loyalty programs, can you use miles and/or points to offset some or all of the costs?

Do you know which countries are more affordable with a favorable exchange rate?

A savvy traveler knows the answers to these questions and plans accordingly.

With the above questions asked and answered, you’ve finished the practical first steps to choosing your travel destination.

The next step is the part I love the most. This is where you can put your right brain to work & envision the kind of destination that matches the experience for which you’re hoping.

TIPS TANZANIA TRAVEL for

Travel Tips Tanzania for

tion of all: Tanzania.

Tanzania is a traveler’s dream.

Known for its wilderness areas, this East African country is where you can find the Serengeti National Park, a safari mecca where the “big five” (elephant, lion, leopard, buffalo and rhino) can be found and Kilimanjaro National Park, the home of Africa’s highest mountain.

If wilderness isn’t your thing, then go offshore and spend some time on the tropical islands of Zanzibar and Mafia Marine Park exploring various coral reefs and taking a dip with some whale sharks.

This Tanzania travel guide will help you plan your next vacation.

Let me introduce you to my absolutely favorite destina

Fast Facts To Know About Tanzania

Tanzanian power voltage is 220V 50Hz; Plug C, E, F & L

The Tanzania currency is the Tanzanian shilling is and is around 2100 TZS to 1 USD

Levels of petty crime seem to increase in Tanzania. Avoid showing signs of wealth and keep valuables out of sight. Be mindful. When walking, walk towards the flow of traffic and keep your bags on the side away from the road to prevent them from being snatched by someone in a passing car.

Several vaccinations are highly recommended including Yellow Fever, Typhoid, Hepatitis A, and hepatitis B.

Tanzanian visas are available upon arrival, payable in US cash only. You can also purchase your visa online in advance and avoid huge lines at the airport, Beware of Chikungunya, a viral disease transmitted by the bite of infected mosquitoes. This outbreak continues to affect parts Africa. Symptoms can take up to 12 days to appear, but usually begin within 3-7 days after being bitten by an infected mosquito. Symptoms generally include fever and joint pain; other symptoms can include fatigue, headache, nausea, vomiting, muscle pain, and rash.

The water is not potable; drink only bottled water or bring a SteriPen to purify your water.

Things to See & Do in Tanzania

Climb Mount Kilimanjaro

I have to clarify a giant misconception about Mt. Kilimanjaro. It is not easy! Go on Safari

It’s the number one safari destination in the world, you cannot go to Tanzania without seeing the Serengeti. At the very least.

Visit Gombe Stream National Park

Located on the north Shore of Lake Tanganyika, Gombe Stream is a protected area made famous by Jane Goodall. Hire a guide to take you to trek and see the famous chimpanzees of the area. You are almost guaranteed a sighting of our closest cousins.

Then, marvel at the Rift Valley The Great Rift Valley spans from Lebanon all the way through Africa through Tanzania to where it ends in Mozambique. It’s best seen from lodges if Ngorongoro reservation.

Visit The Iraqw Village

The Iraqw Village located near the town of Karatu, not far from the Ngorongoro crater was a highlight for us when visiting Tanzania.

View of Central Serengeti National Park from Kubu Kubu Lodge

Visit Oldupai Gorge (Olduvai)

Oldepai Gorge is known as the cradle of civilization. In the 1970’s Mary and Louise Leakey discovered the existence of the first human species dating back 3 million years. This significant find established the fact that humans evolved in Africa.

Take A Balloon Safari

If you are up for a splurge, there is nothing better than taking a hot air balloon over the Serengeti Plains. See wildlife from above and have a great adventure flying over Africa. Balloon flights end with champagne and breakfast starting your day off right!

Be prepared balloon safaris on the Serengeti go as high as $600 but if it’s your once in a lifetime trip, it’s worth every penny.

Visit Tarangire National Park

It may not be the largest or most famous park of Tanzania, but the Tarangire National Park packs a punch. It was in Tarangire that we had some of our most unique animal encounters in Tanzania. From an ostrich mating to lions and leopards in a tree, Tarangire is an excellent spot to see African animals.

Visit Nogorngoro Crater

It’s the largest unbroken caldera in the world that is not submerged in water and it houses 45,000 animals living in harmony. Visiting the Ngorongoro crater is a beautiful experience watching wildlife within the volcano. Massive herds of wildebeest, zebras and elephants roam the landscape and you will come across a lion or two and if you are lucky, a rhino may cross your path.

Visit A Masai Village

You cannot visit East Africa without visiting a Masai Tribe. The original nomads and Masai warriors will welcome you into their villages showing you how they make fire while putting on performances and jumping high in the air.Their majestic voices will win you over and you won’t be able to leave without digging deep into your wallets to buy a souvenir. Be prepared though: The Masai have been running tours for decades and know the art of the deal. They’ll quote high prices but you can barter.

Visit Lake Victoria

Lake Victoria is the source of the White Nile and it is the largest lake in Africa. It is the second largest freshwater lake in the world after Lake Superior. Bordered by Kenya and Uganda, this lake is not to be missed when visiting Tanzania. It is one of the least visited places in Tanzania, but you can take boat trips and do some amazing bird watching on its shores.

Visit Arusha Cultural Center

Located in Arusha the cultural centre is a new attraction housing African art and paintings. It’s a fascinating walk through African culture all in a tranquil setting. Sip cappuccinos on the terrace or browse the gift shops.

Visit Shanga Village

Also located in Arush, the Shanga Village is a project that helps disabled people hone their skills selling arts and crafts.The workshop lets you walk through to enjoy artisans at work and learn how they make glass ornaments, tapestries and clothing. You can buy jewelry or other crafts to support the project that runs on a sustainable model of recycling materials.

Also, you are supporting this project by booking your stay at our favorite place to stay in Tanzania: TAASA lodge (who work directly with the project itself).

Visit the Beaches of Zanzibar

No trip is complete without island time and Zanzibar is paradise on earth.This spice island (also a birthplace of Freddy Mercury!) is not only beautiful above its turquoise water with its sandy white beaches, it is beautiful below. Considered to have the best diving on the entire east coast of Africa, snorkellers will also be satisfied with what they will see. Here are some beaches to bookmark:

Kiwengwa Beach – Little Italy

Jambiani Beach – Seaweed Solitude

Matemwe Beach – Relaxation & Local Culture

Pingwe Beach – One Of A Kind Restaurant

Bwejuu Beach – Mangrove Forest Safari

Kizimkazi Mtendeni – Dolphin Sightings

SAFARI WHAT PACK to for

What Pack Safari for to

1. Passport, Itinerary, Travel Insurance Docs & Etickets

It seems obvious, but we would be remiss if we didn’t put this at the top of the list of what you must pack for your safari.

2. Prescription Meds

Remember to put your prescription medications in your hand luggage (in case your check-in bag goes astray... it happens!)…and make sure you have enough of each type to last your entire safari.

3. Prescription Glasses (Sunglasses, Hat, Sunblock, etc.)

If you wear prescription glasses, be sure to pack more than one set (in case you lose one or they get broken). You will be outdoors for much of the time, so be prepared. Pack a hat, sunblock, long sleeves, and lip balm.

4. Pic/Video Camera & Binoculars

Whilst most people will remember to take their camera and/or video (or will use their mobile phone), not everyone thinks they need to take binoculars!

Binoculars are ESSENTIAL for optimum wildlife viewing on safari (and a GOOD pair of binoculars will make a BIG difference to your safari). We strongly recommend a pair of binoculars on safari. Get the most expensive you can afford (at least 8x or better still 10x magnification).

Africa is a photographer’s dream. Not only does the boundless wildlife come in all shapes and sizes, but the continent is also blessed with stunning landscapes, colorful people and fabulous light! Don’t miss out. Buy a camera, if you don’t already have one. We use and highly recommend any of Nikon’s series.{link to nikon}

5. Clothes & Toiletries

This section is super important. The type of clothes and weight restrictions matter. Most international airlines will restrict your check-in luggage to around 20 to 30kgs (55lbs). However, if your safari itinerary includes any light aircraft flights, then this can mean as little as 12 to 15 kgs (sometimes including your hand luggage)

A same-day laundry service is usually available in most safari camps and lodges. The exception will be for mobile tented safaris where it is often difficult, due the mobile nature, to offer a laundry service. It may also be possible to leave a bag with the charter company, or person meeting you, for the duration of the safari portion. When in doubt, ask your travel agent.

Casual but Comfortable

Casual, comfortable clothing is suitable throughout the year when on safari. Apart from selecting reasonably neutral or ‘non-bright’ colored clothing, safari-wear is generally casual and practical. Be sure you take clothes that you feel comfortable in – especially when it comes to your walking/hiking boots. The newer quick-drying fabrics, shirts with ventilation and trousers that convert into shorts are all worth considering.

MIND THE COLOR!

Khaki and beiges are safari’s favorites for a reason: blacks and blues (and generally darker colors) attract insects, especially the Tse-Tse flis, something you definitely

Layering Is Key

Wearing clothes in layers is the most practical way to cope with fluctuating day/night temperatures and cool evenings whilst on safari. As the day warms up you can peel off another layer. Then as it begins to cool toward evening, you can put them back on. Here’s the “must-haves” to pack for your safari:

A) T-shirt, shirt or blouse - long sleeves and collars help to protect from the sun and mosquitoes

B) warm jacket. We love commact ones from Uniqlo.

C) A pair of safari pants. The more pockets, the better.

D) Comfortable walking shoes (or boots) and socks

E) Hat - a beanie is a lifesaver at night or in the morning.

F) Bandanna or cotton scarf keep the hair manageable in open Safari vehicles.

G) Maybe a pair of open sports sandals for general daytime use in warmer months

H) Swimsuit - a number of lodges and camps have swimming pools

I) An elegantly casual outfit for dinner at the smarter hotels. Nothing too fancy but you would want to have something nice-ish.

J) A light, compact raincoat if it is likely you will encounter rain (gorilla and chimp trekking)

K) And, of course, your undergarments.

Finally, Don’t Forget Your Sense of Humor, Patience and Some Common Sense!