Safari Team Leader

Bird Watching Safari

Bird Watching Safari

With some of the world’s most diverse environments, Tanzania is a mecca for birders

With a resident population in excess of 1,388 different bird species, and many more that come down and up here from Europe and Southern Africa, Tanzania is probably one of the greatest places on the planet for birders. From the gigantic Marshall eagle to the delicate Sunbird, the elusive Shoebill to the omnipresent Marabou, there is certainly something to please any keen twitcher!

Part of the reason that Tanzania has such vast numbers and varying species is down to the wide array of differing topographies and micro climates that exist in the country. Below we have run through a few of these in the main tourism locations…but….for the adventurous, it is also possible to head further afield to really try and find a few rarities (the shoebill in the central western wetland complex of the Moyowosi-Kigozi, for example)

The Eastern Arc Mountains and the Tanzania Endemic Bird Area

The ancient range of mountains, that dissect Tanzania from its north eastern edge to its south western edge, and that take in the Mountain ranges of Pare and Usumbara in the north, Uluguru north and south, Udzungwa and Mahenge in the south, are the oldest in East Africa and home so some of the greatest endemic biodiversity in the world.

Due to their isolation approximately 10 million years ago, the Eastern Arc Mountains became a haven for all types of flora and fauna and, today, this is one of the last places on the planet where it is possible to encounter truly endemic species and, for the truly intrepid birder, some totally new species.

Probably the most important of the reserves within the EBA is the Udzungwa Range National Park which is located to the north of the Selous Game Reserve in southern Tanzania. This park is home to many of the countries main endemic species. The nearby, Amani Nature Reserve is, however, a more accessible haven for those wanting to try and see these rarities.

Birding In the North of Tanzania

The national parks to the north of Tanzania have been formed through the moving together of two tectonic plates and, as such, this is an area that is both barren and fertile in equal amounts. The main National Parks of the Serengeti, Lake Manyara and Tarangire are very good for large raptors and scavengers, but, if you are looking to get away from the “flock” then please see a few additional areas below:

The Momella Lakes – located in the north of Arusha National Park, these lakes are fed by underground streams and are a mecca for water birds in particular. Species commonly seen here include flamingo, pelican, little grebe and a variety of herons, ducks and waders are also common.

Lake Natron – fed by underground springs and the Ewaso Ngiro River, Lake Natron is one of the famous Rift Valley Lakes and sits to the north of the Ngorongoro Crater, on the border with Kenya. This inhospitable region or caustic waters and parched earth is the main breeding ground for East Africa’s 2.5 million or so lesser flamingo who rally here in the summer months of August and September. As a sheer spectacle on its own, it is something worth seeing.

Rubondo Island – situated in the southern reaches of Lake Victoria, Rubondo Island is an often forgotten corner of Tanzania and, only now, is it becoming more developed and connected once more. This island has many great features but one of these is that, with its forested and freshwater habitats, it is very popular for bird species of all kinds.

Birding In the South of Tanzania

Bird Watching Safari to the northern parks of Tanzania, the main parks of the Selous Game Reserve Kilombero plains Mikumi  and Ruaha National Parks are superb birding destinations in their own right. More over little information on the Selous and a couple of other destinations that are less well known:

The Selous Game Reserve with most of the main camps in the park being located along the winding Rufiji River, the Selous is a superb park for seeing all number of bird species ranging from the fish eagle to the malachite kingfisher and the secretary bird.

Uluguru Nature Reserve a part of  the Eastern Arc Mountains.Probably one of the most exciting and accessible areas for birding in southern Tanzania and, for those looking to see any of Tanzania’s endemic species, it is a must visit.

Historical Site

Historical Sites

Historical Site along Iringa Town our guide are informative will take you experience tribal rule, colonial times, Independence and present day.  The tour is unique in Southern Tanzania.

Isimila Stone Age Site

20 km south of Iringa is the Isimila Stone Age site…..

A dry bed of a former shallow lake, where in 1951, amid a landscape of small canyons and eroded sandstone pillars, archaeologists unearthed one of the most significant Stone Age finds ever identified.

Tools found at the site are estimated to be between 60,000 and 100,000 years old along with other bone fossils including those of related to the modern giraffe but having a much shorter neck and an extinct hippopotamus with unusual periscope like projections. The museum has well-captioned displays highlighting some of the finds.

The site preserves important evidence of early hominids activities when groups of nomadic hunters and collectors used to hunt along the shores of the ancient small lake.

The Isimila central valley consists of a spectacular deep canyon caused by water erosion characterised by collection of strangely formed sandy pillars. The main pillar area is accessed via a walk down into a steep valley (about one hour round-trip), for which you’ll need a guide.

Iringa Town

‘Lilinga’ a Kihehe word for ‘fortress’ is how the local people described the impressive fort of Chief Mkwawa at Kalenga. However the Germans thought they heard “Iringa” and that is what they called their own fortress.

The rich history of Iringa Town from tribal rule to colonial times to present day.During German occupation, the German military constructed the town as fortified defense against marauding Hehe tribal warriors intent on driving them out of the region. Gangilonga rocks, site  just outside of the town, is a legendary spot where the Hehe chief at that time,Chief Mkwawa, met with his people and decide how to fight the German.

 

Arusha

Day Trip to Arusha National Park

After a leisurely breakfast you will depart for Arusha National Park,once the site of the action packed Hollywood movie Hatari, starring John Wayne and Hardy Kruger. Set between the slopes of Mt. Meru and Mt. Kilimanjaro this small park is one of Tanzania’s hidden gems and one of the few places where you will have a chance to see the rare Black & White Colobus monkeys.

The parks contains a series of shimmering alkaline lakes, which attract flamingo’s and a variety of birds, along with elephant, buffalo, zebra, gazelle, wart hog, hippo and an amazing number of giraffe. One of the highlights of today’s visit is a short walk to a viewing area overlooking the miniature Ngurdoto Crater, which is completely reserved for the animals.

Enjoy a picnic lunch and a short walk on the Mt. Meru side, before heading back to Arusha arriving at the Lodge in the afternoon. Relax for the rest of the day.
Overnight – (all meals & activities)

Usambara Mountains

Usambara Mountains

Usambara Mountains, situated in the north eastern part of Tanzania, are known for their pleasant climate, beautiful view points and fertile slopes. Favored by the Germans and English during colonial times, the area is rich in historical buildings from the period. Excursions, which take half day or less, will include hiking and visits to Wasambaa villages, where visitors may have a glimpse of daily life of the local people.

Day 1:  
The tours begins in Lushoto with an uphill walk to Kwembago the ancient village of the Data family. A subclan of the royal kilindi line ages typical of most Shambala villages. Kwembago is situated along mountains range with panoramic views over Lushoto valley, The Maasai steppe and the surrounding mountain of the western Usambara Mountain. From Kwembago the working tour continues through Magamba rain forest where rare plants and animals life can be seen after two hours of working through the rain forest you drive to Mtae. Driving in tine to view the mult – colored suntel over the plain and distant pare Mountains. You stay a night at Mtae Hostel. (4 hours on foot 2 hours on drive)

Day 2:  
The day begins around 7:30am with stroll through the village of Mtae to a view point from which you can see Kilimanjaro on clear days. After which you begins to Climb the Shaghayu Peak 2220m which has spectacular views to the Pare Mountains across the borders with Kenya. On your way you pass Mpanga, a village whose name (cave) drives. From its grotto – like entrance traditional religions site viewed by local people as a mode of the sprints and Shangayu rain forest, where to viewed trees serve as play ground for various monkey species. (5-6 hours walk)

Day 3:   
This last days work takes you either to Mamboleo or Tema. These villages are noted for their soil conservation and traditional irrigation projects which concentrate on the development of stone or bench terraces to improve farming. You guide will give you full explanation about traditional Shamba farming method and how they fit to their local environment conditions. Mamboleo and Tema present picturesque example of how the Shamba have combined their traditional architecture – conical, thatched earthen houses – with introduced architectural styles such as the rectangular “Swahili” house. The following morning you leave for Lushoto by driving. (6-7 hours walk)

Day 4:
Start the walk at 7:30 a from Mtae passing through tropical Shangayu rain forest. Learn the traditional medicine from plants and the walk is cool and quire in the forest where you may see back and white colobus monkey,butterflies and chameleon. Walk through village where you learn and see the tradition activities performed by Shamba tribe which locals shires ideas. See their general life then stay in Mlalo village at the Hostel. (6–7 hours walk)

Day 5:
Mlalo has an alluring famous old German Church and missionary station. Then walk to the highest Usambara mountains called Mtumbi. Then visit several markets and the village the pottery woman project then drive back to Lushoto.Finish the trip or a night there and next day drive to Lushoto to end the adventure trekking. (5-6 hours walk)

Kitulo National Park

Kitulo National Park

Kitulo National Park covers an area of 412.9 sq km (159 sq miles. The temporary park headquarters at Matamba are situated approximately 100km (60 miles) from Mbeya town.Located in Southern Tanzania.

Perched at around 2,600 meters and (8,500 ft) between the rugged peaks of the Kipengere, Poroto and Livingstone Mountains. The well-watered volcanic soils of Kitulo support the largest and most important montane grassland community in Tanzania.

“Garden of God”

One of the most important watersheds for the Great Ruaha River, Kitulo is well known for its floral significance, not only a multitude of orchids, but also the stunning yellow-orange red-hot poker. A variety of aloes, proteas, geraniums, giant lobelias, lilies and aster daisies, of which more than 30 species are endemic to southern Tanzania.

Big game is sparsely represented, though a few hardy mountain reedbuck and eland still roam the open grassland. Locals refer to the Kitulo Plateau as Bustani ya Mungu – The Garden of God while botanists have dubbed it the Serengeti of Flowers, host to ‘one of the great floral spectacles of the world’.

And Kitulo is indeed a rare botanical marvel, home to a full 350 species of vascular plants, including 45 varieties of terrestrial orchid.Which erupt into a riotous wildflower display of breathtaking scale and diversity during the main rainy season of late November to April.

Biological wealth of the Gods garden

Kitulo plateau as bustani ya – a botanist and hiker’s paradise – is also highly alluring to birdwatchers. Tanzania’s only population of the rare Denham’s bustard is resident, alongside a breeding colony of the endangered blue swallow.Other such range-restricted species as mountain marsh widow, Njombe cisticola and Kipengere seed-eater.

Endemic species of butterfly, chameleon, lizard and frog further enhance the biological wealth of God’s Garden.

Park Highlights Include:

  • Locals refer to the Kitulo Plateau as Bustani ya Mungu – The Garden of God, while botanists have dubbed it the Serengeti of Flowers.
  • Wildflower displays peak between December and April. The sunnier months of September to November are more comfortable for hiking but less rewarding for botanists.
  • Good hiking trails exist and will soon be developed into a formal trail system. Open walking across the grasslands to view birds and wildflowers. A half day hike from the park across the Livingstone Mountains leads to Matema Beach on Lake Nyasa
  • The gap of Numbi valley is occupied by Juniper Forest, one of the most extensive in East Africa. Towering up to 50 M these are among the tallest junipers in the world.
Tyre Puncture

Off-road Tyre Puncture Repair

Tyre Puncture repair is so easy to do if it’s just a small hole no larger than a little finger nail (a small stick, nail, spike or anything that’s staked the tyre which is no wider than a big nail), but you will need the right tools for the job.

Tyre repair kit or Tyre plugging kit & pliers.

Sometimes a jack and Tyre iron or socket set will be needed if you have to remove the tyre in order to plug it, but those tools should always be on board your vehicle.

In most cases you won’t need to take the tyre off the vehicle unless the hole is really hard to get to.

Half the battle when doing a tire puncture repair is finding the hole/leak which can sometimes be challenging as the tyres may be covered in sand, dirt or mud.

Once found, establish wherever it is easy to fix while still on the vehicle or if it’s best to take the Tyre off and work on the ground.

Hot Air Balloon Ride Safari

Hot Air Balloon Ride Safari

Activity Duration: 2-3 hours

Location: Serengeti National Park

A most memorable morning in a hot air balloon over the Serengeti as the sun rises. You will be picked-up at your lodge at 5 am and taken to the launch site where you and your fellow passengers will be briefed by your pilot and you will watch your balloon inflate. The one-hour ride takes you gliding over the beautiful Serengeti Plains as the sun rises. After, enjoy a champagne breakfast under a baobab tree. This activity can take place in either the Central or Western Corridor.

From Serengeti Balloon Safaris they said …..join us in an extraordinary adventure. Float in a hot air balloon over the famous Serengeti National Park with its enchanting scenery and vistas.

Activity Duration: 2 – 3 hours

Hot air Balloon Ride Safari at Ruaha National Park

Ruaha is probably the most beautiful National park for the balloon flight in the world and the ultimate destination for safari experience.

Here the guests will meet their pilot, receive a briefing and watch the inflation of their balloon. At dawn it will take off, rising as the sun rises and floating in whichever direction the winds of the morning takes. The pilot can precisely control the altitude of the balloon: sometimes flying at treetop height, sometimes lower, offering a unique perspective and great photographic opportunities of the wildlife below.

At other times, pilot may ascend to 1,000ft or more, to see the enormity and wonderful panorama of Ruaha. From time to time the pilot must put more heat into the balloon with the powerful whisper burners. In between these burns, there is silence apart from the natural sounds below.

The flight is for about one hour, depending on conditions, and eventually it must land. You will celebrate in the traditional manner with champagne (well, an excellent sparkling wine) before sitting down to a full English breakfast prepared and served in the bush in

Hot Air Balloon Ride Safari Package Includes:

– One-hour Balloon ride
– Pick up and drop off from the selected lodge
– Excellent sparking wine
– Bush breakfast
– Balloon Concession Fees
– Hot air balloon certificate

Hot Air Balloon Ride Safari Package Excludes:

  • Any other apart from above
  • $475 USD

Terms & Conditions for Safaris

VERY IMPORTANT NOTES
Rates and Availability are subject to change with or without prior notice.
They are only available if pre-payment is made through Look Tanzania Safaris.
The information given is based on CURRENT STATUS and is therefore NOT a guarantee of availability and hence not a guarantee of services requested. We can only confirm services upon receipt of payment/deposit SUBJECT to availability at that time.

RESERVATIONS
A 50% deposit is required for booking and full payment at least 45 days before service commencement. If date of service falls below or within 45 days full payment is required.
Payments can be made by: Bank Wire Transfer OR (other means as per agreement with Look Tanzania Safari)

CANCELLATIONS
Any monies paid will be refunded on early cancellation, less the cost of cancellation fees levied by hotels or lodges
Booking fees and bank charges are non refundable.
Bookings canceled or reduced in length of stay or reduced in number of occupancy are subject to cancellation and no show fees as follows:

Between 60 and 45 days prior to arrival – 35% of tour costs
Between 44 and 16 days – 50% of tour costs
Less than 16 days – 100% of tour costs.

In all cases, a notification of cancellation is to be put in writing to Look Tanzania Safaris.
The above cancellation fees may be higher depending on the property booked

RATES
Tour cost includes: all expenses in respect of vehicle and driver as per itinerary, table d’hôte meals on safari, entrance fees to national parks and reserves.
Exchange rate: Rates are based on current rate and should the exchange rate vary, Look Tanzania Safaris reserves the right to adjust these rates accordingly from the date of such variations.
Government taxes: Rates are inclusive of all taxes where applicable. In case of any increase or decrease or introduction of new taxes, Look Tanzania Safaris will adjust these rates based on the variations.
Cancellation fees apply in case of booking cancellation or reduction in number occupancy or reduction in length of stay or No show. Please refer to our booking policies for the cancellation scale. However, note the scale might be higher depending on the property booked since some hotels have higher charges.
Holiday supplements: Rates do not include any holiday supplement where applicable i.e Easter, Christmas, New Year e.t.c
Children’s policy: Child rate only applies to children aged between 2 to12 years.
Travel Insurance cover is not included in your price, we however urge you to take insurance covering you against loss and damage as well as medical insurance.

CHECK IN TIME / CHECK OUT TIME
Check in time is from 1200 noon on the expected arrival date. Check out time is 1000am on the departure date. Extra cost apply for early check in or late check out. Hotels do have different conditions on this and please reconfirm at time of booking.
Day room use can be arranged at extra cost and check out time is at 1800hrs.

TRANSPORT
Will be provided as per quotation. The right is reserved to employ the service of sub – contractors if need arise. English speaking driver/ guide are provided. Other language speaking driver/guides are provided on request and subject to availability.

TOUR ALTERATIONS
The company ensures to adhere with the program as arranged, however, it reserves the right to alter the arrangements or cancel  the operation of tour if serious need arises, but will inform agent / client before action. Such cases may be caused by airline cancellation, hotel problems, political tension, weather i.e rainfall on game areas, tracks, airstrips or any other bookings problem that affects the program. The company also reserves the right to decline to accept or retain any person as a member of the tour at any time, in which case an equitable amount will be refunded.

LIABILITY
The company and its agents act as agents of the passenger in all matters relating to hotel / lodge accommodation, transport, tours etc. and shall not be liable for injury, delays, loss or damage in any manner. The laws of the country in which the tour takes place and no other country govern the company’s liability to passengers carried in its own vehicles. All claims are subject  to the jurisdiction of the courts of the country in which the action arises. The company reserves the right to employ sub-contractors for all or part of the services. The company cannot be held responsible for loss or damage of luggage.

TRAVEL DOCUMENTS / HEALTH /YELLOW FEVER
Please ensure that all travel documents are valid and also verify if health requirements e.g vaccination are needed by the country you are traveling to.
For any other medical requirements get advise from your doctor before traveling.

Saadani National Park

Saadani National Park-Savanna meet the Beach

The Wami river offers probably the best boat safari in Tanzania and is a favourite with visitors to Saadani National Park. The boat often passes flocks of flamingoes at the mouth of the estuary before entering the river with its abundant wildlife and profusion of bird life. Explored by foot the reserve is extremely rewarding and highlights how much game lives in close proximity to the beach.

The unique experience of tracking giraffe through prime bush then emerging onto a pristine beach in a matter of a few paces is not easily forgotten. Improved road conditions within the reserve have made the prime game viewing areas more easily accessible and the wildlife is now becoming used to 4×4 vehicles on the game drives.

Saadani National Park is in the unique position of providing the opportunity to observe Africa’s big game and bird life interacting with the sea. Foot safaris combining the bush and the beach, birdwatching by canoe on the Mafue river and game drives are all available from the lodge and a boat safari on the Wami river can be organised as part of a full day game drive. The nearby Madete Marine Reserve offers superb snorkeling and is a green turtle nesting site.