karibuni TANZANIA!
TANZANIA
Message from Hon. Shamsa S. Mwangunga, MP Minister of Natural Resources & Tourism, The United Republic of Tanzania Dear Travel Agents, In this special Tanzania supplement we want to take this opportunity to introduce you to a part of Tanzania few people know about, the gems of the South—Ruaha National Park, the Selous Game Reserve, Pangani, Tanga and Songea. Even if you have not yet been to Tanzania, most of you are familiar with some of our famous icons and World Heritage sites, Kilimanjaro, the tallest mountain in Africa, Serengeti National Park, famous for the great wildebeests migration, as well as the Ngorongoro Crater, which is often called the 8th Wonder of the World. But in the south, with fewer tourists, the experience is different, some say even more authentic. Ruaha National Park is HON. SHAMSA S. MWANGUNGA, MP now the largest park in East Africa and the second largest national park in all of Africa. The Selous Game Reserve is the largest in the world. Now, as the air connections between North and South expand with Coastal Aviation offering scheduled flights between the Serengeti and Ruaha National Parks starting June 2010, and as the choice of accommodation increase in the South, your clients can have a diversified safari experience all in one destination—Tanzania. Let us also not forget the opportunities for total relaxation on the miles of white sandy beaches along the Indian Ocean. Marine parks, water sports and world class diving sites are found off the shores of mainland Tanzania, its coastal islands like Mafia, as well as on the exotic spice islands of Zanzibar. The most frequently heard comment from first time visitors to Tanzania is “I came for the wildlife, but took home the memories of the warm hospitality of the people.” If culture is the focus for your clients, Tanzania has 125 different tribes, with their rich cultural traditions and languages, all living in harmony. Tanzania’s Cultural Tourism Program, Visit the People, which currently comprises 26 villages in the North, offers visitors a rare opportunity to meet the local people and participate in a diverse range of daily activities such as cooking, fishing and making handicrafts. We look forward to saying Karibuni Tanzania (welcome to Tanzania) to you and your clients.
Hon. Shamsa S. Mwangunga
50 • MAY 2010
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TANZANIA
Tanzania’s Treasures Reveal Gems in the South as Well as Its Famed North Agents should promote some Southern exposure when packaging this prized African destination.
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anzania, the largest country in East Africa, is devoutly focused on wildlife conservation and sustainable tourism, with approximately 28 percent of its land protected by the Government. It boasts 15 National Parks and 32 game reserves. It is the home of the tallest mountain in Africa—legendary Mt. Kilimanjaro; The Serengeti, named in October, 2006 as the New 7th Wonder of the World by USA Today and Good Morning America; the worldacclaimed Ngorongoro Crater, often called the 8th Wonder of the World; Olduvai Gorge, the cradle of mankind; the Selous, The exhilaration of a climb to the top of beautiful Kilimanjaro is unparalleled. the world’s largest game reserve; Ruaha, now the second largest National Park in Africa; the spice is- was accorded the status of a World Heritage Site and listed as lands of Zanzibar; and seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites. one of the International Biosphere Reserves by UNESCO’s Most important for visitors, the Tanzanian people are warm Man and Biosphere Reserve Program. and friendly, speak English (which, together with Kiswahili, are the two official languages); and, making the picture per- Kilimanjaro: ‘The Roof of Africa’ fect—the country is an oasis of peace and stability with a Kilimanjaro is the highest mountain in Africa. The ultimate in adventure travel, scaling the peak of Mount Kilimanjaro democratically elected, stable government. is a heavy challenge, more from the rigors of altitude than Treasures of the North the actual difficulty of the hike itself. The climb, which Tanzania is most famous for the splendid icons of what is takes on average five days, takes hikers through thick known as its Northern Circuit. Arusha, the Safari capital of forests and alpine grasslands, desolate rockface and brilliant Tanzania, is the jumping off point for travel in the North. white glaciers. International flights to Arusha fly into Kilimanjaro Airport, and most domestic and safari flights depart from Arusha Serengeti National Park Airport. Serengeti National Park is easily Tanzania’s largest and most famous park because of the annual animal migration of Ngorongoro Crater Area over one million and a half white-bearded wildebeest and zeA visit to world-renowned Ngorongoro Crater is an integral bras; it has 5,700 square miles of protected area. Large prides part of any first-time Safari to Tanzania. But too often it’s of lions laze in the long grasses, plentiful families of elesimply an overnight, with travelers just coming to see phants feed on acacia bark and trump to each other across the Ngorongoro Crater. In actual fact, this crater is one of eight, plains, and giraffes, gazelles, monkeys, eland, and the whole and many visitors miss the excitement and diversity of the en- range of African wildlife appears in awe-inspiring numbers. tire Ngorongoro Conservation Area. There is so much to ex- One of the highlights of the Serengeti National Park is the opperience beyond the Ngorongoro Crater that travelers are en- portunity to take a hot-air balloon safari, organized by couraged to incorporate at least two- or three-night stays in Serengeti Balloon Safaris. The journey takes off flying low this area. over the plains—as the sun comes up and turns grasslands Ngorongoro Conservation Area is one of the world’s most from blue to gold. After landing, guests have a champagne unique ecosystems. It is the only conservation area where breakfast complete with crystal glasses and white linen tableman and wildlife coexist in harmony—one of the reasons it CONTINUED ON PAGE 52 Travel World News • www.travelworldnews.com
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cloths in the middle of the African bush, as zebra and antelope graze nearby.
Lake Manyara National Park Lake Manyara National Park offers varied ecosystems, incredible bird life, and breathtaking views. It is a great place to spot Manyara’s legendary tree-climbing lions and impressively tusked elephants. Its groundwater forests, bush plains, baobob-strewn cliffs, and algae-streaked hot springs offer incredible ecological variety in a small area, rich in wildlife and great numbers of birds. Canoeing excursions in Tanzania are an active option for the visitor with a few days to spend exploring the northern lakes. Excursions on the shores of Lake Manyara involve canoeing past thousands of pink flamingos in its shallow waters.
Tarangire National Park Tarangire National Park has some of the highest population density of elephants anywhere in Tanzania, and its sparse vegetation, strewn with baobab and acacia trees, makes it a beautiful and special location.
Pangani has some of the most spectacular unspoiled beaches in the country.
In the Northeast—Off the Beaten Track Tanga Region Coming soon on the Tanzania tourist map: the Tanga region, just north of Dar es Salaam. Situated along the Indian Ocean, Tanga boasts sun-drenched beaches, beautiful vistas of the Usambaras Mountains, whispering rivers and lush green vegetation. Until recently, Tanga has not been part of the larger Tanzania tourism picture. However, the region is now more accessible than it was in the past—by tarmac road from Dar es Salaam, and by air and with speedboats from Dar es Salaam as well as Zanzibar. Four areas of Tanga are the current focus for tourism development. Tanga city is the capital of the region. Situated on the shores of the Indian Ocean, Tanga’s port is second after Dar es Salaam. The city is rich in history, natural attractions, period architecture and interesting aquatic activities. South of Tanga City lies Pangani, a prominent trading center in the 19th century. Pangani has some of the most spectacular unspoiled beaches in the country, making it an excellent beach holiday destination. To the further south is the little known Saadani National Park, offering the unique bush/beach experience. To the West of Tanga and on the Eastern side of the Usambaras mountains lies a beautiful hill station named Amani. The flora and fauna and the tea plantations nestled in the slopes of these hills make Amani a serene and peaceful retreat for eco-friendly tourists.
Gems of the South Travelers must come and discover the wonders of Tanzania’s 52 • MAY 2010
The resource-rich habitat of Ruaha teems with wildlife like these buffalo herds.
Southern Circuit! The sheer vastness of southern Tanzania, still undiscovered by many, makes for some spectacular game viewing and opportunities off the beaten track. Dar es Salaam, the commercial capital of Tanzania, is the jumping off point for the South.
Ruaha National Park Ruaha, which boasts 10,000 elephants, the largest population of any East African national park, protects a vast tract of the rugged semi-arid bush country that characterizes central Tanzania. Its lifeblood is the Great Ruaha River that courses along the Eastern boundary of the park. A fine network of game-viewing roads follows the Great Ruaha and its seasonal tributaries, where, during the dry season, impala, waterbuck CONTINUED ON PAGE
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Tanzania National Parks
More than conventional game viewing
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anzania conserves more than 25% of its land, and is home to an estimated 20% of Africa’s large mammals, so its game viewing is widely regarded as the best in Africa. But the 15 parks managed by Tanzania National Parks offer a lot more the than just exceptional game viewing. Bird watching is outstanding at all 15 parks but the Serengeti, with over 500 species recorded; Mkomazi and Ruaha with more than 450; and Lake Manyara, Mikumi and Udzungwa with over 400 are closely followed by Kitulo and Rubondo Island. Tanzania’s 15 parks are also a paradise for flower lovers. Locals refer to Kitulo as ‘The Garden of God’ while botanists have dubbed it the ‘Serengeti of Flowers’. Host to one of the great floral spectacles of
the world, it is home to over 350 species of plants including 45 varieties of orchid. Rubondo Island also boasts some 40 different types of orchid while all other parks feature their own unique floral display. Gombe and Mahale Mountains vie with each other as the best place in the world to track wild chimpanzees. Gombe’s chimpanzees being made famous by the pioneering work of Jane Goodall who, in 1960, founded her famous behavioural research program. Chimpanzees may also be seen at Rubondo Island where they were introduced in 1966 and have now become habituated. Hot Air Ballooning is currently only available in the Serengeti but there are plans to offer this unique and wonderful experience in Mikumi, Tarangire and Ruaha.
Mount Kilimanjaro and Arusha’s Mount Meru obviously offer the ultimate in mountain climbing but lesser peaks in Kitulo and Udzungwa provide less challenging but equally interesting climbing and trekking. Boat trips, fishing, swimming and snorkelling are possible in Gombe, Mahale, Rubondo Island and Saadani while canoeing safaris are popular on Arusha’s Momela Lakes, on Lake Manyara and around Rubondo Island. Not a conventional game viewing destination, Udzungwa is a magnet for hikers. Other parks with excellent trails are Kitulo, Mkomazi, Ruaha and, of course Kilimanjaro while walking safaris are offered in Arusha, Katavi, Kilimanjaro, Kitulo, Lake Manyara, Mikumi, Mkomazi, Ruaha, Rubondo Island, Saadani and Tarangire.
At the present time, night game drives are only allowed in Lake Manyara.
For further information contact: The Director General Tanzania National Parks PO Box 3134, Arusha, Tanzania Tel: +255 27 250 3471 Fax: +255 27 250 8216 E-mail: tanapa@habari.co.tz info@tanzaniaparks.com www.tanzaniaparks.com
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and other antelopes risk lives for a sip of life-sustaining water. The risk is considerable—with prides of 20-plus lions lording over the savannah, the cheetahs that stalk the open grassland and the leopards that lurk in tangled riverside thickets. Ruaha is also home to over 450 bird species and now includes the Ihefu Wetland, the natural water reservoir for the Great Ruaha River.
The Selous Game Reserve The Selous Game Reserve is Africa’s largest game reserve and covers more than five percent of Tanzania’s total area. Its rivers, hills and plains are home to roaming elephant populations, the area’s famous wild dogs, and some of the last black rhino left in the region. Due to its natural diversity and untouched state, the Selous Game Reserve was proclaimed a World Heritage Site in 1988 and today continues to live up to its esteemed status. The Selous offer tourists the added attractions of boating safaris on the Rufiji River and walking safaris.
The colorful, rich and varied landscape of the postcard-pretty Saadani region.
Katavi National Park Isolated, untrammeled and seldom visited, Katavi is a true wilderness, providing the few intrepid souls who make it there with a thrilling taste of Africa as it must have been a century ago. Tanzania’s third largest national park, it lies in the remote southwest of the country, within a truncated arm of the Rift Valley that terminates in the shallow, brooding expanse of Lake Rukwa.
Saadani National Park Saadani is where the beach meets the bush. Located on the Indian Ocean beachfront, it is the only marine/bush national park in East Africa. The beach possesses all the attributes that make Tanzania’s tropical coastline and islands so popular with sun-worshippers. Yet it is also the one place where those idle hours of sunbathing might be interrupted by an elephant strolling past, or a lion coming to drink at the nearby waterhole! About a three-hour drive from Dar es Salaam, it’s also a popular day trip from the beach resorts scattered along Tanzania’s northern coast.
Mbeya Region The city of Mbeya, near the Zambian border deep in the southern highlands, is the major agricultural capital in the country’s southwest region. The Mbeya mountain range lies to the north, and the Poroto range lies to the southeast. Lake Nyasa, which serves as a boundary for Tanzania and Malawi, is among the leading tourist attractions in the southern highlands. The half-mile deep lake and shoreline offer pristine beaches for water sports and sunbathing. The lake is the third largest body of water bordering Tanzania, over 300 miles long and 31 miles wide. From the Lake Nyasa Shores are the Uporoto Ranges, Kipengere and Livingstone mountain 54 • MAY 2010
Giraffes and many other huge beasts casually stroll the Serengeti.
ranges and the Rift Valley features; all of which the Tanzania Tourist Board (TTB) and the Tourism Division in the ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism have identified for development and marketing. At the Chimala and Matamba escarpments, a road with 52 rather sharp turns has been constructed, and these hairpin bends offer a thrilling, panoramic and breathtaking drive as it snakes through six miles of spectacular waterfalls. Tanzania is a treasure-filled country apart from all the rest. Its peace is real—quiet contentment in a land of magic where nature still reigns supreme. The awe plus thrills a trip to this gorgeous and exciting destination brings should not be missed in one’s lifetime.
Tanzania Tourist Board (TTB), www.tanzaniatouristboard.com; Tanzania National Parks, www.tanzaniaparks.com; Ngorongoro Crater, www.ngorongorocrater.org; Zanzibar, www.zanzibartourism.net; Tanzania Embassy, Washington, D.C., www.tanzaniaembassy-us.org; Tanzania Mission to the UN, New York City, www.tanzania-un.org www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News
TANZANIA TANZANIA SHOWCASED AT THE NEW YORK TIMES TRAVEL SHOW
Dotti Kirk, of Dot.Away Travel, was the lucky winner of a safari trip for two to Tanzania given away at the New York Times Travel Show. The trip was presented by Nanuri Safaris. (From left) Bernard Murunya, Chief Conservator, NCAA, United Republic of Tanzania; Hon. Halima Mamuya, M.P., NCAA Board Director, United Republic of Tanzania; Dotti Kirk, Dot.Away Travel; Essau P. Pwelle, African Banjoist Performer; John Benedict Malago, Managing Director, Nanuri Safari Company Ltd.
A 16-person strong tourism delegation from Tanzania participated for the fourth consecutive year in the New York Times Travel Show held recently at New York’s Jacob Javitz Center. The highlights of the show were the two drawings for a Tanzania Safari, offered by Nanuri Safari Company and Asante Safaris. The two lucky winners of trips for two to Tanzania were Dotti Kirk, Dot.Away Travel of Perryville, Maryland, and Sarosh G. Jacob of New York City. The Tanzania delegation to the New York Times Travel show was led by the Honorable Halima Mamuya, MP, a board director of the Ngorongoro conservation Area Authority (NCAA) and included Mr. Bernard Murunya, Chief Conservator, Ngorongoro Crater Area Authority (NCAA); Suleiman Saleh, Tanzania Embassy in Washington; Deogratias Malogo, , Tanzania Tourist Board (TTB); Emmanuel Dioclese, Tanzania National Parks (TANAPA); Ignas Gara, Kitavi National Park, TANAPA; Asantael Melita, NCAA; Karen Hoffman, Jane Thompson, Susan Brinnitzer, Crystal Chan, and Annie Gordon, TTB USA; Gaudence Temu, Fortunata Temu, and Evelyne Gaudence, Equitanz Resort/Bongo Tours & Safaris; John Benedict Malago, Nanuri Safari Company Ltd; and Edwin Van Zwam, Moivaro Lodges and Tented Camp/ Fumba Beach Lodge. Tanzania Tourist Board, www. tanzaniatouristboard.com; New York Times Travel Show, www.nyttravelshow.com 56 • MAY 2010
MBALI MBALI LODGES AND CAMPS ANNOUNCES EXPANSION WITH NEW SERENGETI SORORI Mbali Mbali Lodges and Camps, a family-owned circuit of safari properties in the some of the most remote and wild game areas across Tanzania, has announced that their newest lodge, Serengeti Sorori, will open this June. This latest lodge rounds out Mbali Mbali’s circuit by connecting the famed Serengeti National Park with the pristine, remote Western region of Tanzania. With the help of their flight partner Zantas Air, guests can now experience all Tanzania has to offer in one memorable circuit. “Over the past decade, we carefully selected the most ideal locations for our camps and lodges situated across Western Tanzania, and have specialized in operating in these incredibly remote locations bringing travelers face-to-face with Africa’s most impressive wildlife,” explains Taki Lalji, Managing Director of Mbali Mbali Lodges and Camps. “Now we have the pleasure of rounding out our circuit with Serengeti Soroi. This new lodge, offering true luxury in the bush while remaining true to our roots of providing outstanding value and wildlife experiences.” Soroi Serengeti Lodge is set on a hill and built among rocks overlooking the vast plains of Musabi. With great attention to design, the lodge offers comfort and luxury while maintaining a uniquely African atmosphere and continued commitment to value. Each private tented chalet is elevated, built on wooden stilts and well spaced across the hill, giving guests breathtaking views of Musabi. The Serengeti Soroi Camp can be accessed by scheduled daily flights landing at the Seronera Airstrip, private charters or selfdriven vehicles. Mbali Mbali Lodges and Camps, info@mbalimbali.com, www.mbalimbali.com; Zantas Air, www.zantasair.com
2010 FIFA WORLD CUP—SOCCER AND THE BIG FIVE WITH CORDIAL TOURS A great opportunity to visit Tanzania—the Land of Kilimanjaro, Serengeti, Ngorongoro and Zanzibar during 2010 FIFA World Cup, is now being offered by Cordial Tours and Travel Services Ltd. These two travel companies will join together to present the big five of soccer and the big five of Tanzania within the same day. Travelers may choose one to four days of fantastic game safaris at Serengeti and Ngorongoro, watching the big five of Tanzania, spend two days for beach leisure at Zanzibar, the Island of Species, or take at least five days climbing the roof of Africa, Kilimanjaro. More information about this fabulous opportunity is available on the Cordial Tours website. Cordial Tours, www.cordialtours.com www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News
TANZANIA RESOURCE DIRECTORY CORDIAL TOURS AND TRAVEL SERVICES LTD Connects the Northern to the Southern Parks
EVERY DAY North Bound Flights Ruaha @ 10:00 hrs Tarangire @ 11:00 Arusha @11:30/12:30 Manyara @ 12:55 Seronera @ 13:50 Grumeti @ 15:30 Mwanza @ 16:00 hrs
South Bound Flights Mwanza @ 0830 hrs Grumeti @ 09:35 Seronera @ 10:55 Manyara @ 11:50 Arusha @ 12:00/13:30 Tarangire @ 14:00 hrs Ruaha @ 1500 hrs
Game Safari, Camping, Cultural & Historic Expedition, Beach Holidays & Mountain Climbing
And Ruaha National Park is connected to the West, to Selous, to Zanzibar and to the Coast with several flights a day
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Keys Hotels Travel and Tours Limited is a family run company situated on the slopes of Mountain Kilimanjaro operating from two locations in Moshi, Uru Road and Mbokomu Road. We also have a branch in Dar es Salaam. At the gateway to the roof of Africa it is an ideal centre from which to explore Tanzania info@keys-hotel-tours.com marketing@keys-hotel-tours.com
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TANZANIA TANZANIA TOURISM DELEGATION WELCOMED AT NY SKAL CLUB LUNCHEON TWN
between our two countries. We expect that this new service will boost the number of Turkish visitors by about 25,000. We also anticipate that this will be yet another gateway for the American market, who would be interested in combining these two very popular, but different destinations. “ Ihsan Baytan, Director, Turkish Airlines in New York, said that flights from New York’s JFK to Dar es Salaam will have good connections through Istanbul. He also added that Turkish Airlines in North America looks forward to working together with the Tanzania Tourist Board to promote packages to Tanzania with optional layovers in Istanbul. Tanzania Tourist Board, www.tanzaniatouristboard.com; Turkish Airlines, www.turkishairlines.com
UPCOMING SPECIAL EVENTS IN TANZANIA WORTH EXPERIENCING
(Left to right) Suleiman Saleh, Second Secretary, Tanzania Embassy in Washington DC; Jane Thompson, The Bradford Group; Ignas Gara, TANAPA; Hon. Halima Mamuya, M.P., NCAA Board Director; Juan Sepulveda, SKAL president; Bernard Murunya, Chief Conservator, NCAA; Karen Hoffman, The Bradford Group and TTB USA.
A Tanzania delegation, led by the Hon. Halima Mamuya, M.P, Board Director of Ngorongoro Conservation Area Authority (NCAA), were welcomed at a New York Skal Club luncheon in February by NY Skal president, Juan Sepulveda. The delegation, in addition to Hon. Mamuya, in New York City for the New York Times Travel Show, included Bernard Murunya, Chief Conservator, NCAA; Suleiman Saleh, Second Secretary, Tanzania Embassy in Washington DC; Ignas Gara, Chief Warden, Kitavi National Park, Tanzania National Parks (TANAPA), as well as Karen Hoffman (a NY Skal member) and Jane Thompson, both of The Bradford Group, which represents the Tanzania Tourist Board in the U.S. Skal International, an Association of Travel and Tourism Professionals, was founded in 1934. Its mission is to promote global tourism and friendships. Skal has chapters in most major cities throughout the world. The organization has nearly 25,000 members. Tanzania Tourist Board, www.tanzaniatouristboard.com; New York Skal Club, www.nyskal.com
TURKISH AIRLINES TO LAUNCH SERVICE TO DAR ES SALAAM, TANZANIA, IN JUNE The Tanzania Tourist Board (TTB) has announced that Turkish Airlines will launch scheduled service from Istanbul to Dar es Salaam, the commercial capital of Tanzania on the Indian Ocean Coast. The Turkish Airlines flights to Dar es Salaam are expected to begin June 2010 in time for the peak tourism season in Tanzania. According to Mr. Amant Macha, TTB’s acting Managing Director, “Tanzania applauds this move by Turkish Airlines and it is a good indicator of the passenger demand for tourism and trade 58 • MAY 2010
Tanzania’s Karibu Travel and Tourism Fair, set for June 4–6, 2010, is the largest and most ambitious travel industry event in East Africa. It is unique because it’s an outdoor event that offers a real safari experience. Over 250 exhibitors and thousands of regional and international visitors are expected to attend the fair, which is open to the trade June 4, and to the public June 5–6. Travel industry suppliers, large and small, including tour operators, tourist boards, hoteliers, and support service representatives and equipment manufacturers are typical participants. International travel trade journalists regularly cover the event along with local media, and “familiarization trips” are being offered to encourage international travel agents to attend. Movie buffs shouldn’t miss the Zanzibar International Film Festival (ZIFF) July 10–18, 2010. This is an annual film festival held in Zanzibar, Tanzania. There is nothing more exotic then watching a film on a balmy, Zanzibar evening in an outdoor Roman amphitheater. It has been described as the largest cultural event in East Africa. Karibu Travel and Tourism Fair, www.karibufair.com; Zanzibar International Film Festival (ZIFF), www.ziff.or.tz; Tanzania Tourist Board, www.tanzaniatouristboard.com www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News
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Historic Songea Town in Tanzania Declared a Tourist Site
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elebrating 103 years since the end of the infamous Maji Maji rebellion, Songea town in the Ruvuma region has been declared a historical tourist site in the southern highlands of Tanzania. The sprawling business town was promoted to that status after the threeday festival in February organized jointly by the regional administration and the National Museum of Tanzania honoring the heroes hanged there in 1906. Activities for this special event also included the special launch of the Maji Maji Memorial Museum. Data preserved there will help Ruvuma Region to continue to attract tourists and assist government revenue. It will be the only museum in the region showing the original tools and weapons used by the Ngoni and Matengo warriors during the Maji Maji war. It stands at the place where they were buried in a mass grave behind the building. The Maji Maji rebellion came about as a result of local tribes in the southeastern part of the country (notably the Matumbi, Yao, Ngoni and Mwera) rejecting German colonial occupation of this part of Africa at the turn of the 19th century. The Germans who took control of a large chunk of land in what is present-day Tanzania, Rwanda and Burundi, ruled with an iron fist. Each year on February 27, the Ngoni people in Ruvuma commemorate the freedom fighters that resisted the occupiers of then-Tanganyika in early 1906. The rebellion was actually an uprising by several African tribes in German East Africa against the German colonial rulers, in addition to the hardships caused by the rinderpest famine that spread through Africa in the 1890s and other deprivations. As a result of the scramble for Africa among major European powers in the 1880s, Germany had ended up with several colonies on the “Dark Continent.” These were German East Africa (now Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi, and part of Mozambique), German Southwest Africa (present-day Namibia), Cameroon, and Togoland (today split between Ghana and Togo). The occupiers had a relatively weak hold on German East Africa, but they did maintain a system of forts throughout the interior of the territory and were able to exert some control over it. Since their hold on the colony was weak, they resorted to using violently repressive tactics to control the population. They began levying head taxes in 1898, and relied heavily on forced labor to build roads and accomplish various other tasks. In 1902 the governor also ordered villages to grow cotton as a cash crop. Each village was charged with producing a common plot. The headmen of the village were left in charge of overseeing the production, a position that left them vulneraTravel World News • www.travelworldnews.com
The annual Maji Maji festival in Songea now on the tourism circuit.
ble to criticism and rage from the population. And using regular villagers with other things to do to produce cotton was extremely unpopular across Tanzania. In many places they simply refused to work the land, or refused payment. These unpopular policies had serious effects on the lives of Africans. The social fabric of society and men’s and women’s roles had to change to face the needs of the communities. Since men were forced away from their homes to work, women had to assume some traditional male roles. In addition, the fact that men were away strained the resources of the village and the peoples’ ability to deal with their environment and remain self-sufficient. These effects created a lot of animosity against the government at this period. Adding to the hardship, in 1905 a drought threatened the region. This, combined with opposition to the government’s agricultural and labor policies, led to open rebellion against the Germans in July. The natives turned to magic to drive out the German colonizers and used it as a unifying force in the rebellion. A spirit medium named Kinjikitile Ngwale claimed to be possessed by a snake spirit called Hongo. Ngwale began calling himself Bokero and developed a belief that the people of German East Africa had been called upon to eliminate the colonizers. German anthropologists recorded that he gave his followers war medicine that would turn German bullets into water. This “war medicine” was in fact water (maji in Swahili) mixed with castor oil and millet seeds. Empowered with this new liquid, Bokero’s followers began what would become known as the Maji Maji Rebellion. Besides the Maji Maji warriors’ hanging place, the Ruvuma region of today is identified by rich tourist attractions—cultural heritage, historical sites and scenery, among them the Matongo Forest Reserve, Luhira Game Reserve, and the German Boma originally built in Songea in 1902.
Tanzania Tourist Board (TTB), ttb@ud.co.tz, www.tanzaniatouristboard.com MAY 2010 •
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TANZANIA OMONG’WE TRAVEL & TOURS PROMOTING PANGANI
When tourists plan to travel to Tanzania, most of the time places like Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Kilimanjaro and Zanzibar top their lists. These famous destinations are all known for their beauty and natural wonders. However, there have been other new destinations in Tanzania that cater to various niche markets. One of these is Pangani. Pangani lies about 28 miles south of Tanga. It is a historic town that was the center of an armed movement to resist German colonial conquest of the entire mainland Tanzanian coast in 1888. Pangani also became a center for smuggling slaves across the narrow channel to Pemba after Sultan of Zanzibar signed treaties with Great Britain outlawing the ocean-going trade in slaves in 1873. Apart from its historic sites, recently Pangani has become famous with tourists because of its tropical, unspoiled nature. Coconutfringed beaches have various eco-friendly lodges. Pangani offers many activities such as cultural tours, Pangani River cruises, water sports like diving, snorkeling, kayaking and a trip to Maziwe Island, one of the oldest marine reserve islands in Tanzania. The Maziwe sand bar is home to protected coral reef, green turtles and spinner and bottlenose dolphins. Conditions are excellent for snorkeling and diving. Omong’we Travel & Tours expertly arranges travel to Pangani and other famous travel destinations in Tanzania such as Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Kilimanjaro and Zanzibar. They are able to customize an end-to-end package that will include travel, accommodation and various activities according to individual travel desires and needs. Omong’we Travel, reservations@omongwetravel.com, www.omongwetravel.com
COASTAL AVIATION RESCHEDULES RUAHA/SERENGETI FLIGHTS Coastal Travels Ltd. is bringing Northern and Southern Tanzania “closer” together. As of June 2010, they are rescheduling flights to connect Serengeti National Park in the North and Ruaha National Park in the South via Arusha. This will make it easier for 60 • MAY 2010
a Tanzania Safari to include both Northern and Southern Circuits, ensuring a fuller, more diverse travel experience. The Serengeti National Park, named the new Seventh Wonder of the World and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is host to the largest and longest overland animal migration in the world. Since it is a world-renowned icon, and adjacent to the Ngorongoro Crater, it is the most popular and most traveled destination on the safari circuit. Ruaha, the second largest National Park in Africa, is one of Tanzania’s “undiscovered jewels,” receiving far fewer visitors than Parks in the North, yet providing a totally different and richer Safari. Amant Macha, Marketing Director, Tanzania Tourist Board said “Until recently, most first-time visitors only had time to see Tanzania’s famous icons in the North, Kilimanjaro, Serengeti, Lake Manyara, and Tarangire. Now, as flight service improves between the North and South, the visitor can also discover in the same visit, the excitement and beauty of the South—Ruaha, the Selous, Mikumi, Kitulo.” For Coastal’s Arusha to Ruaha flight, the aircraft takes off at 1:30 pm. This gives plenty of time for guests to land in Arusha before transferring to Ruaha flying via Tarangire. The flight arrives in Arusha at approximately 4 pm, depending on stops (Tarangire/Dodoma). The return flight departs Ruaha at 9:30 am and arrives in Arusha around noon, depending on stops. It connects to Serengeti at 12:30 pm. The complete list of destinations in the South is: Tanga, Pemba, Zanzibar, Mafia, Songo Songo, Kilwa, Selous, Ruaha and Dar es Salaam. Coastal Travels Limited, www.coastal.cc; Tanzania Tourist Board, www.tanzaniatouristboard.com
ANTELOPE SAFARIS SHOWS OFF AFRICA Antelope Safaris Limited, established in 1994, has offices in Tanzania’s business city of Dar es Salaam and in Arusha, the hub of safari activities. Services include air ticketing, car rentals, accommodations and city tours. They also organize photography, cultural, religious, nature and adventure eco-tours. Tanzania is famous for its game parks, to be sure, but the entire country displays vast and undisturbed natural wonder, and Antelope Safaris shows it all. The West is home to the chimps, and the magical beauty of Lake Victoria. In the north, the abundant, wild Serengeti, Tarangire, Lake Manyara and Arusha national parks can be offset by a climb to snow-capped Mt. Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest mountain. Or Ngorongoro Crater, teaming with lions, cheetahs, leopards, zebras, rhinos and gazelles. Southern Circuit safaris are in Mikumi, Katavi, Ruaha and Africa’s largest reserve, the Selous. Flying to the pristine beaches on the East Coast of Zanzibar makes a sparkling detour with its blue beaches, fresh seafood and exotic fruits. Antelope Safaris, info@antelopesafaris.com, www.antelopesafaris.com www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News
BOOK TANZANIA WITH THE FOLLOWING ABSOLUTE ADVENTURE TRAVEL * 281 217 8111 / 713 807 9620 www.absoluteadventuretravel.com
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THE WAY TO GO FOR 40 YEARS
DESTINATION SPECIALISTS GOWAY info@goway.com www.goway.com
ADVENTURES IN AFRICA * 866 778 1089 www.adventuresinafrica.com
INTERNATIONAL EXPEDITIONS 800 633 4734 www.ietravel.com
THE AFRICA ADVENTURE COMPANY * 800 882 9453 www.africa-adventure.com
JUNCTION AFRICA (877) 659-4653 www.junctionafrica.com
AFRICA DREAM SAFARIS * 877 572 3274 www.africadreamsafaris.com
LION WORLD TOURS / SAA VACATIONS * 800 387 2706 www.lionworldtravel.com
AFRICAN MECCA * 866 527 4281 email: sales@africanmecca.com
MICATO SAFARIS * 800 642 2861 www.micato.com
AFRICAN TRAVEL INC. 818 507 7893 ext 115 www.africantravelinc.com
MOSAIC RHINO TOURS 951 353 2299 www.mosaicrhinotours.com
ASANTE SAFARIS * 914 636 6017 www.asantesafaris.com
MY SERENGETI SAFARI 888-50-SIMBA www.myserengetisafari.com
BORN FREE SAFARIS & TOURS * 800 472 3274 www.bornfreesafaris.com
NATURAL MIGRATIONS 866 988 7575 www.naturalmigrations.com
COX & KINGS * 800 999 1758 www.coxandkingsusa.com
PRIVATE SAFARIS LTD Tel: 678 662 3210 http://www.privatesafaris.com
DEEPER AFRICA * 888 658 7102 www.deeperafrica.com
ROTHSCHILD SAFARIS 800 405 9463 http://www.rothschildsafaris.com
FRIENDLY PLANET TRAVEL, INC. 800.555.5765, Ext # 2020 www.friendlyplanet.com FOX SAFARIS 818 891 1973 http://www.foxsafaris.com/foxsafaris.php G.A.P. ADVENTURES * 800 465 5600 www.gapadventures.com GO AHEAD TOURS 800 590 1170 www.goaheadtours.com GOOD EARTH TOURS & SAFARIS 877 265 9003 http://www.goodearthtours.com Travel World News • www.travelworldnews.com
SAFARI VENTURES * 888 341 7771 www.safariventures.com SOMAK HOLIDAYS USA 877 40 SOMAK (east coast) 800 75 SOMAK (west coast) email: salesusa@somak.com, www.somak.com/usa TAUCK WORLD DISCOVERY * 800 788 7885 www.tauck.com THOMSON SAFARIS * 800 235 0289 www.thomsonsafaris.com
* Tanzania Tourist Board award-winning tour operators MAY 2010 •
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TANZANIA THE PLACE TO MEET IS TANZANIA’S KARIBU TRAVEL AND TOURISM FAIR
U.S., and we hope to encourage them to participate by offering special pre- and post-safaris.” Karibu Travel and Tourism Fair, www.karibufair.com; Tanzania Tourist Board, www.tanzaniatouristboard.com
SOUTHERN SUN DAR ES SALAAM PROGRAMS REWARD FREQUENT GUESTS
Tanzania’s Karibu Travel and Tourism Fair is an outdoor event that offers participants a real safari experience.
Now in its 11th year, Tanzania’s Karibu Travel and Tourism Fair is the largest and most ambitious travel industry event in East Africa. As such, it has become “the place to meet,” for the region’s travel industry partners from around the world. The 2010 Karibu Fair, taking place June 4–6 just outside of Arusha, Tanzania’s safari capital, promises to be the largest ever. The annual event is organized by the Tanzania Association of Tour Operators (TATO), Tanzania Tourist Board (TTB) and the Ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism (MNRT). According to Amant Macha, TTB’s Acting Managing Director, “Tanzania is very proud that the Karibu Fair, what started as a modest initiative, has evolved into a major travel industry showcase for all the East African destinations.” Part of the uniqueness and excitement of The Karibu Travel and Tourism Fair is that it is an outdoor event that offers a real safari experience. Over 250 exhibitors and thousands of regional and international visitors are expected to attend the 2010 Fair, open to the trade June 4 and the public June 5 and 6. Travel industry suppliers, large and small, including tour operators, tourist boards, hoteliers, and support service representatives and equipment manufacturers are typical participants. International travel trade journalists regularly cover the event along with local media, and “familiarization trips” are being offered to encourage international travel agents to attend. James Haigh, Sales and Marketing Manager, Singita Grumeti Reserves in Tanzania, in speaking about the Karibu Fair commented “I go to the Karibu Fair because I have found that it is the one event where one can meet all the major players, buyers and suppliers, in the East African tourism industry.” Macha added “Since America continues to be Tanzania’s number-one source market for tourists, we are making a special effort to attract more travel agents from the U.S. market. There are currently over 1,400 qualified Tanzania Travel Agent Specialists in the 62 • MAY 2010
Southern Sun Dar es Salaam is superbly located: it borders the Botanical Gardens and the diplomatic offices of Dar es Salaam and is within walking distance of the central business district. Its 152 well-appointed guest rooms include two suites, 10 executive rooms and one room equipped specifically for physically challenged guests. The hotel offers corporate and business support services that include complimentary WiFi Internet access and conference capabilities, 24-hour room service, laundry/dry-cleaning services and ample secure parking. Frequent business travelers accumulate Sun Rands, the currency of Southern Sun’s award-winning Frequent Guest program, which they may apply toward free holidays for themselves and their families, in addition to other exclusive privileges. In addition, Frequent Guests receive a five-percent discount off SunBreaks rates and a further five-percent discount when booking online with Southern Sun Hotels. Known for its “best breakfast in town,” the Dar es Salaam hotel’s Kivulini Restaurant overlooking swimming pool and Botanical Gardens creates stir-fry and buffet lunches too. Or, guests may feast on the exotic fusion of Swahili and continental cuisine in the hotel’s Baraza Grill, Cafe & Bar. Southern Sun Dar es Salaam, adamf@southernsun.co.tz, www.southernsun.com
‘MORE THAN WELCOME PACKAGE’ AT MÖVENPICK HOTELS IN AFRICA All across the African continent, travelers can benefit from a special “You are more than welcome package” from Mövenpick Hotels through June 30. This means they can stay at any Mövenpick hotel or resort in Egypt, Tanzania, Mauritius, Morocco or Tunisia and get best available rate, guaranteed late checkout and upgrade to Sea View or best available room. In Dar es Salaam, Mövenpick’s Royal Palm Hotel combines East African culture and tradition with international standards. Free access to swimming pool, sauna and fitness center are included. An 18-hole golf course and tennis courts are nearby. Conference capabilities for up to 600 are state-of-the-art. Royal Palm’s 230 rooms include Executive Rooms with their own private Executive Lounge, Junior Suites, Diplomatic Suites and a Presidential Suite. All have controllable air-conditioning, directdial phone/voicemail, high-speed Internet, satellite TV, hairdryer, safe, mini-bar and coffee-making facilities. A new “Interactive Television” system, unique for the East African region, offers a whole range of in-room entertainment. Mövenpick Royal Palm Hotel, www.moevenpick-hotels.com www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News
TANZANIA EQUITANZ RESORTS COMFORTABLY CARE FOR ITS VISITORS TO MAJESTIC AFRICA
Equitanz Resorts consists of two resorts: Afrikan Sunstar Resort and Fortune Mountain Resort. Afrikan Sunstar Resort is located in Karatu-Arusha some four miles-plus from the Ngorongoro Conservation Area entrance gate. Given its central location, African Sunstar Resort is perfect for those visiting Tarangire, Lake Manyara National Parks or even enroute to Serengeti or Lake Eyasi. It provides 10 cottages inclusive of 20 clusters, with two doubles/twin each and three executive suites, all with a magnificent view of massive Ngorongoro. All accommodation is very comfortable: exclusively furnished, with en-suite bathrooms, with a main building consisting of a lobby, restaurant, bar and an open-air terrace affording a lovely view of the famous African sunset. Guests can also relax at the swimming-pool facilities with poolside bar while they enjoy exotic cocktails, a well-chilled beer or other varieties of drinks from a fully-stocked bar. Fortune Mountain Resort is located in Marangu, only three miles to the Kilimanjaro National Park gates. It is ideal as a base before and after climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, cultural tours, also for those on vacation, honeymoon or weekend getaway. It offers 18 big luxury rooms with en-suite bathrooms. Other facilities include a Kibo Restaurant and Mawenzi Bar, Shira Lounge as well as a customized porters party garden area to celebrate the success of climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro. Equitanz Resorts, sales@equitanzresorts.com. www.equitanzresorts.com
IN-DEPTH EXPERIENCES IN AFRICA WITH BONGO TOURS & SAFARIS Bongo Tours & Safaris is a well-established tours and safaris company based in Dar es Salaam but with operational offices in Arusha and Moshi, Tanzania. The company organizes tailor-made safaris ranging from photographic safaris, cultural tourism, birdwatching safaris as well as mountain climbing ones, for example Mountain Kilimanjaro, Mount Meru and the hills of Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Services are also offered such as fixed-departure safaris, compreTravel World News • www.travelworldnews.com
hensive transfers, hotel reservations, team-building activities and conference packages. Once-in-a-lifetime experiences are created for clients as they’re taken to explore and experience the wild through different national parks such as Kilimanjaro, Ngorongoro, Serengeti, Tarangire, Manyara, Ruaha, and Selous, as well as visits to the beautiful beaches in Zanzibar, Bagamoyo, Mafia, Pemba, Kilwa and other places depending on the client’s needs. Bongo Tours can also organize tours to any of the East African countries. Equipped with an excellent field driver and guides, Bongo goes the extra mile to explore the product, trying as much as possible to avoid the beaten tracks, and not just “scratching the surface” of those places shown. Clients become involved in the country, its culture, its people and its wildlife—giving them rewarding lifetime experiences. The style of Bongo’s safaris includes the use of quality lodges, tented camping adventures, biking, flying, and drive-in adventures. Services range from standard to luxurious accommodation. Private customized safaris are also available. Apart from comfort, special emphasis is put on safety and security of their clients at all times. An accomplished safari outfitter, Bongo Tours & Safaris welcomes opportunities to show clients around the great land of Kilimanjaro—The Roof of Africa, and the Spice Islands of Zanzibar. Indeed, Tanzania is famed for its natural endowments, and Bongo Tours & Safaris likes to be remembered as ‘Master of The African Jungle’ because of its intimacy with the land. Bongo in Swahili means “brain,” and you cannot navigate your way through the highly competitive tourism industry without using ingenuity to understand and satisfy the needs of clients. Hence, the name. Bongo Tours & Safaris, evelyne@bongotous.com, www.bongotours.com
OWNERS OF MARA BUSHTOPS CAMP TO OPEN ANOTHER IN SERENGETI Award-winning Mara Bushtops Camp in the Masai Mara game reserve is getting a sister in the Serengti National Park. The five-star Serengeti Bushtops Camp will open June 1, 2010— in time for the great migration. The camp is located in the northwestern part of the Serengeti, not far from the Mara River. The nearest airstrip is Kogatende. There are 12 tents, each with a private decking of over 1,290 square feet with a unique sunken lounge and a hot tub. There is 24hour power and butler service available. Dining is on a la carte basis and is complimented by the camp’s wine cellar. Full-day and half-day game drives are offered in open 4x4’s with experienced driver guides. Bush picnics, sundowners and walking safaris complete the experience. “Bushtops hopping” between the Mara and Serengeti is offered via a flight link to/from Migori Airstrip with a border crossing at Isabenia and a road transfer to/from Serengeti Bushtops. Orion Hotels, claudia.stuart@orion-hotels.net, www.orion-hotels.net MAY 2010 •
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