TAFRICA SAFARIS DESTINATIONS |
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Arusha National Park The closest national park to Arusha town. Formerly known as Ngurdoto Crater National Park, was established in 1960. In 1967 the name changed to Arusha National Park. The Park and Arusha town derive their names from Wa-Arusha people who traditionally lived in this area. 40 minutes drive from Arusha town.The Park covers an area of 542 sq km (205.96 sq miles). Park Significance: Ngurdoto crater;
Momella Lakes; Like other lakes in the rift valley, Momella lakes are alkaline and their waters are undrinkable to most animals. However the level of alkaline of each lake aries according to its mineral content. Mount Meru; The fifth highest mountain in Africa at 4,566 MASL metres (14,990 feet). Ngurdoto forest; From Ngurdoto gate situated on the edge of the forest, the forest stretches far beyond with different types of vegetation growth. These include tall trees, intermediate shrubs, grasses and flowering plants.The forest is the home for black & white colobus monkeys, baboons, buffaloes, red duikers, blue monkeys and different species of birds. Facilities Accommodation facilities within the park include Momella wildlife lodge and campsites are available. Activities Game drive , Canoeing, cultural activities nearby and Mt Meru climb. Visiting the park You can visit this park year round |
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Manyara National Park Lake Manyara National park being in the northern circuit of Tanzania is about (126 km/80 miles) west of Arusha town. Covers an area of 330 sq km (127 sq miles), 200 sq km (77 sq miles) is lake when water levels are high. Manyara comes from the Maasai word "Emanyarara" which is a plant used for making "fancies" around their kralls. It is scientifically referred to as "Euphoribia tirucalii" other maasai elders argue that it comes from the word "Olmanyara" which means settlement. The Park contains a large variety of habitats such as the rift valley wall, the groundwater forest and acacia woodlands the canopy of these types of vegetation's contains shrubs and grasses which form a good habitat for baboons, monkeys elephants, hornbills, guinea fowls etc. There is also the areas of open grassland which located along the lake shores and within the ground water forest. This area provides grazing for the animals especially Buffaloes, wildebeest and Zebras. Majar Attractions: The park is famous for tree - climbing lions, which are occasionally seen along branches of Acacia trees. Various reasons have been given as to why lions in this park spend their time resting in trees. Some of them include: To obtain a view To catch the breeze To avoid the terminating flies and to keep out of the way of the Buffalo and Elephant. The park is also famous for its concentration of elephants.Other animals found in the park include waterbucks, Impala Hippos, etc.The park is also rich of different species of birds. Over 280 species of birds have been recorded. The ground water forest found around the gate is another attraction. Here the tall trees are maintained by the water coming from the rift wall. The rift valley wall, hot springs and the varied vegetation cover creating a beautiful region with the area. Places to stay are campsites, Hotels, Lodges, and Tented Camps. Guest Houses near the park area also offer comfortable accommodations and good food.herds. |
Serengeti National Park (1951)
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Serengeti National Park The Serengeti National Park covering an area of 14,763 sq km (5,700 sq miles) is one of the Worlds Largest wildlife sanctuaries. 335 km (208 miles) from Arusha, was established in 1951. In 1981was accepted by the World heritage conservation as a World Heritage site and Biosphere. The name Serengeti is derived from a Maasai word "Siringet" which refers to an endless plain.The plains were formed 3 to 4 million years ago when ash blow from volcano in Ngorongoro highlands covered the landscape.This thick layer of ash established the rich soil which supports the southern grass plain. From this early beginning Man and Wildlife have shared the magical place. When Serengeti become the Tanganyika's first National Park in 1951 in those days including the Ngorongoro crater. In 1959, the parts of the plains and highlands were separated and became the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Serengeti remains one of the most important parks. Each year the park generates more revenue than it spends, the remainder goes to support other national parks. Major Attractions Kopje: The beautiful rocks outcrops pronounced "copy" from Dutch meaning little head. The main groups of kopjes are Barafu, Gol, Maasai, Simba, Moru and Loliondo. Each got it's own Beauty. Moru Kopjes are outstanding for their size. They are residential area for wildlife. Including Lions, Leopards, Several cats and Caracals. Black rhinos have been seen in this area. Gol and Barafu provide important habitat for cheetahs and wildebeests occurs in this area during wet season. Maasai and Loliondo provide outlook for resident lions and large cobras can often be seen sunning themselves on rocks. Simba kopjes support a great variety of animals and birds including giraffes, baboons and lions for which they are named. Simba kopjes are the easiest to reach as they are along the main road to Seronera Wildlife Lodge. Animals: Serengeti National Park is rich of wild animals from the small ones to the biggest, and a wonderful selection of bird life. The park has about 35 species of plain animals and over 400 birds species. Survey estimates indicate an animal population of about 4 million including over 3000 lion, 1,600,000 wildebeests and 500,000 zebras. Grumeti river; The river is very famous for the population of giant Nile Crocodiles at Kilawira, Growing up to 6 M in length. Animal Migration; The movement from one region to another looking for better conditions; pasture, water and breeding grounds. They drop the Young's in the southern short grass plains because of; Good viewing (to see predators) Flat area for newly born babies to start life The short grass and palatable for calves. In wet season herds of animals graze in southeast near the Ngorongoro crater In April to May the herds move Northwest to feeding grounds near Lake Victoria where they spend the dry season. Around October, the return journey south begins. Activities Hot air balloon safaris, Maasai rock paintings and musical rocks. Visit neighbouring lake victoria, Ngorongoro Crate, Olduvai Gorge, Ol Doinyo Lengai volcano and Lake Natron's flamingos. |
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Kilimanjaro National Park Kilimanjaro National Park attained its status in 1973. It covers an area of over 1500 sq km (575 sq miles). Mount Kilimanjaro is the highest mountain in Africa, at 5,895 metres MASL (19,336). The park located in Northern Tanzania, near the town of Moshi. 128 km (80 miles) from Arusha. About an hour's drive from Kilimanjaro airport. Major Attractions The outstanding features of the park in major volcanic centers i.e. Shira in the west (3969 M), Mawenzi in the east (5149 M) and ''Snowcapped" Kibo (5895 M) in the middle.Varied change of vegetation also attract a large number of clients hiking up the mountain. The vegetation varies from Savannah grassland to rainforest, semi-desert and finally to the snow of Kilimanjaro. The forest is a very important genetic store house as well as being a watershed for agricultural lands, industrial plants and fishing areas. Also numbers of mammals, birds and insects inhabit the area. Mammals include elephants, buffaloes, Elands, duikers, leopards, baboons, blue monkeys, black & white colobus monkeys. Hiking the mountain The park has 6 hiking access routes through the Kilimanjaro forest reserve. i.e. Marangu, Mweka, Ubwe, macheme, Shira and Rongai. Ascent of Kibo can be made from Mweka, Umbwe, Shira, Machame and Rongai. The most common ascent however is Marangu route. The ascent and descent takes 5 - 6 days. The mountain can be climbed by any normal fit person with the assistance of a guide porter. It can be climbed at any time of the year but from March to May there are long rains. During this time the route is slippery and this makes it uncomfortable for climbers. The best time to visit the park is during the months of September through November. Visitors to this park can be accommodated in the hostels and hotels in Moshi town and Marangu. Activities Trekking, Cultural Activities on Lower Slopes |
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Tarangire National Park Was established in 1970 and covers an area of 2850 sq km (1,005 sq miles). The park is situated in Northern Tanzania, 118 km (75 miles) southwest of Arusha. It's name comes from the Tarangire river that flows through the center of the park from south to north west and empties its waters into lake Burungi. Major Attractions Tarangire river - it is the only source of water to the animals during the dry season Tree climbing Pythons - The park is famous for pythons which climb trees during the dry season.
Birds - The park has more than 550 species of birds particularly rich bird life occurs in the open acacia woodland in the and along the wet land. Mammals - The park is rich in mammals
Silale Plain - This area is in the southern corner of the park. East of Juro Ranger post.
Activities Vehicle Safari, Walks and Cultural Activities in Border areas. |
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Mikumi National Park The park is in Morogoro region. It is the nearest park to the commercial city of Tanzania, Dar es salaam about 283 km (175 miles). Mikumi National Park covers an area of 3,230 sq km (1,250 sq miles) and is the fouth largest park in Tanzania. Major Attractions The park is rich in wildlife. The Mkata river plains are the feeding ground of large herds of buffaloes, warthogs, zebras, impalas, lions, wildebeests and elephants which can been easily throughout the year.The park also harbors different species of birds, over 300 species of birds have been recorded. Also reptiles including crocodiles, lizards and snakes are residents in the park. Facilities Mikumi Wildlife Lodge and Mikumi Wildlife Camp offer accommodation and good food. Hostel and Campsites also available. Activities Game drives and guided walks. |
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Ruaha National Park This is the second largest park in Tanzania. The game viewing starts the moments the plane touches down. It was established in 1964 with an area of 10,300 sq km (3,980 sq miles). The park derives it's name from the grat Ruaha River which flows through the rift valley, eastern part of the park. The word Ruaha comes from the Itehe Language "Luvuha" which means GREAT. Major Attractions There are over 370 bird species recorded. Different species of animals can been seen in the park, these include greater and lesser kudu, road and sable antelopes, elephants & buffaloes. The great Ruaha river offer the major attractions especially during the dry season. During the dry season, it attracts a great number of animals like giraffes, elands, warthogs. In the plains, plain dweller animals & birds can be seen. Ruaha River also harbors unbelievable high numbers of hippos and crocodiles. Facilities Ruaha River Lodge provides comfortable accommodation and good food. Other include tender camp (satellite) hostel and camping sites.
Activities Vehicle and Walking Safaris |
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Gombe National Park It is the smallest National Park in the country, 52 sq km ( 20 sq miles). 16 Km (10 miles) north of Kigoma. The park was established in 1968. It consists of narrow mountain strips of country stretching for some 16 Km along the eastern show of lake Tanganyika. Major Attractions It is one of the few parts of Africa which harbor the most rare species of animals chimpanzee, apart from mahale mountain. Chimpanzees are very intelligent animals and very interesting to observe when in their natural habitats engaged in different activities. Other mammals to be seen in the park are baboons, monkeys, bushbuck, buualoes, leopards etc. Another interesting feature is the kokombe riverine waterfall which is near the chimpanzee research station. Activities Chimpanzee trakking; hiking and swimming\snorkelling. |
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Katavi National Park
Major Attractions Major features of attraction include lake Katavi with short grass flood plains in the North. Lake Chada in the south east (some 64 Km which is rich in bird life and it's one of the areas with high population of crocodiles). Animals found in this park include elephants, zebras, buffaloes, hippos, sable & roan antelopes, eland, leopard, lions etc. Activities Driving, Walking and camping safaris |
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Rubondo National Park The park was established in 1977 with an area of 258 sq miles (93 sq miles) and surrounded by a number of islets which are part of the park. The park is located northwest Tanzania, 150 km (95 miles) west of Mwanza town. It has several vegetation types ranging from Savannah to Open woodlands, dense forest and papyrus swamps. Major Attractions The major attractions in the park is the presence of many Sitatungas.This species of animal is indigenous on the Island. Some animal species found in the park include hippos, crocodiles, bushducks, giraffes and elephants. This park has also different species of reptiles and birds are everywhere. Facilities There are campsites on the Island. However visitors should bring all necessary camping equipment, as the park does not provide camping facilities. Boats are also available of which they are hired. Cars are also present and can be hired by visitors to take them around the park. Activities Walking safaris, boat excursions, sport fishing, chimpanzee treks, plans for canoe trips. |
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Mahale National Park This park is situated 150 Km south of Kigoma town. The park was established in 1980 and covers the area of 1,613 sq km (623 sq miles). From Kigoma visitors may catch a ship which takes close to 6 hrs the quickest way to reach mahale is by air. Mahle has two seasons; Dry season and wet season the dry season begins at the end of May and continues through October to January then March to May. Major Attractions There are over 370 bird species recorded Different species of animals can be seen in the park, these include greater and lesser kudu, roan and sable antelopes, elephants & buffaloes. The grat ruaha river offer the major attractions especially during the dry season. During the dry season, the river attracts great number of animals like giraffes, elands, warthogs. In the plains, plain dweller animals & birds can be seen. Ruaha river also harbor unbelievable high number of hippos and crocodiles. Facilities Ruah river lodge provides comfortable accommodations and good food. Other include tented camp (satellite) hostel and camping sites. The best time to visit the park is during the dry season between May and November. Activities Chimp tracking, hiking and camping safaris. |
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Udzungwa National Park The park was established in 1992. It covers an area of 1,990 sq km (770 sq miles) and bordered by the great Ruaha river to the north and the Mikumi - Ifakaa road to the east. Major Attractions Udzungwa Mountains National Park harbors different species of plants. Some of the plant species in the park are not yet identified as these plants species are found nowhere in the world. Some of the animals found in the park include leopard, eland buffaloes, elephants, baboons, monkeys and different species of birds (including modularizes Sanje a new endemic frandcolin discovered in 1979). Facilities Twiga Resort which is near the park gate can provide food and accommodation. Campsites have been established in the park but campers should bring camping equipment. Activities Hiking |
Ngorongoro Conservation Area
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Ngorongoro The largest unflooded volcanic caldera in the world. It contains the world's most important concentration of large mammals that live in the wild. 30,000 creatures representing about 40 species of the mammals that usually live in East Africa. The only ones lacking are the Impala, the bastard hartebeest and the giraffe, because the plants they feed on are scarce in the crater. Ngorongoro lies in the north Tanzania, near the Rift Valley, sharing part of the Serengeti plains to the north-west and with the towns of Arusha and Moshi, and Mount Kilimanjaro to the east. Ngorongoro covers an area of (8,292 sq km) and ranges in altitude from 1,020 m to 3,587 m. The crater and its wildlife Lerai forest - called Lerai by the Maasai. This is maa word for Acacia xanthophloea, the yellow-barked 'fever tree'. Supports a large resident population of wildife. Lake Magadi is alkaline, caused by deposits of volcanic ash. Home to many vast of colonies pink flamingos and favourite stalking grounds for golden jackals, lions and hyenas. Gorigor Swamp - Home to many waterbirds and hippos. Black Rhinoceros, and Elephants. Activities Vehicle and Walking Safaris Visiting the park The best time to visit the park is between June to February |
Mobile: 503 - 576 - 1799 Local We look forward to assisting you! Nelson Issangya - TAfrica Safaris
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