Manyara Ranch Conservancy Suggested Itinerary for the Adventurous

On July 23, 2010, In Accommodations, African Safari Tours, Sustainable Tourism, Tanzania, By Sandy Salle

Image taken from Manyara Ranch Conservancy website (http://www.manyararanch.com/)

Imagine experiencing a trip to Africa that is built around exclusivity, pure wilderness, and complete luxury. Manyara Ranch Conservancy has the exact formula for the ultimate African safari vacation you’ve been looking for.  With 35,000 acres of pristine wilderness and cultural enlightenment, it’s no wonder Manyara Ranch Conservancy has been referred to as the most exciting tourism project to come out of Tanzania.

Below is a 4-day sample itinerary of just a few things you can experience at Manyara Ranch Conservancy:

Day 1

After arriving at the Manyara Ranch Conservancy, enjoy an energizing lunch and experience an exceptional game drive where you’ll witness the Big Five as well as other mesmerizing animals such as the African wild dog, the zebra, and exotic bird species. After a day of excitement, relax with refreshing sundowners and a scrumptious bush dinner before a good night’s rest at the Manyara Ranch Tented Camp.

Image taken from Manyara Ranch Conservancy website (http://www.manyararanch.com/)

Day 2

Awake to the refreshing aromas of a bush breakfast and prepare yourself for an early morning game walk where you’ll venture though the bush to discover new and exciting creatures.

When you return from your adventurous walk, visit the local primary school and enjoy a Maasai cultural visit where you’ll have the unique opportunity to learn about the Maasai culture and lifestyle, directly from the locals. Because the neighboring Maasai communities own the Manyara Ranch, everyone who visits the Conservancy has a direct contribution to helping the Maasai sustain their ancient cultural heritage.

The day ends with a night game drive through the lively bush, followed by a traditional bush dinner.

Image taken from Manyara Ranch Conservancy website (http://www.manyararanch.com/)

Day 3

Delight in breakfast at the camp before you embark on a horseback safari through the sprawling plains of Tanzania and the local villages. With a plethora of wilderness beauty and wild game, the Manyara Conservancy is one of the best places in Tanzania to experience a horseback safari. These breathtaking safaris are led by professional equestrian guides and are offered in one-day tours and multiday safaris.

After your adventurous horseback safari, enjoy a private dinner beneath Tanzania’s velvety and star-sprinkled sky.

Image taken from Manyara Ranch Conservancy website (http://www.manyararanch.com/)

Day 4

After breakfast, embark on a drive to Lake Manyara National Park for a game drive where you’ll witness some of the most fascinating wildlife Tanzania has to offer.

You’ll then be transported to the luxurious Ngorongoro Crater Lodge where you will take pleasure in traditional Tanzanian cuisine before you retire to your lavish suite in the Ngorongoro Crater Lodge.

Day 5

Embark on one of the most unique tours of your trip, a thrilling full-day crater tour. On this tour, you’ll be able to walk through the Ngorongoro Crater and discover thousands of residential wild game within this spectacular World Heritage Site. From sightings of lions, elephants, wildebeests, gazelles, rhinos, and zebras, this once-volcanic site is the perfect way to end your adventurous stay with the Conservancy.

After your tour, enjoy relaxing sundowners before your dinner at the lodge, where you will stay until it’s time for your next adventure!

Discover more of what Manyara Ranch Conservancy has to offer by visiting their website.

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Celebrate Your Romance at the Exclusive Beaches of Africa

On July 14, 2010, In Honeymoon Safaris, Mozambique, Tanzania, By Sandy Salle

Whether you’re celebrating your honeymoon or your 50th wedding anniversary, you deserve an unforgettable, romantic getaway with your loved one.

And what’s more romantic than scuba diving side by side as a sea turtle picks at coral beneath you, sailing along a glistening coastline, or walking barefoot on the beach?
Zanzibar_mnembaSpeckled all along the southern coast of Africa are some of the world’s most romantic and unspoiled beaches. Relax beneath Africa’s golden sun or scuba through an ancient shipwreck as you unwind on island time. Nothing is more peaceful for the mind, body, and soul.
Although Africa’s coastline seems almost endless, there are two particular regions of this great continent that stand out as the most romantic and tranquil beach destinations. Below, discover how Zanzibar and Mozambique got their prestigious status as world-renowned getaways:

Zanzibar:

Escape from the pressures and responsibilities of everyday life as you melt beneath the soothing hands of a masseuse from the privacy of your own beach villa on Tanzania’s world-renowned archipelago, Zanzibar.

Zanzibar_dhowKnown for its exceptional underwater gardens, Zanzibar is a scuba diving and snorkeling phenomenon. With yards and yards of crystal clear visibility, exploring the waters surrounding Zanzibar is a spectacle of underwater wonderland.

One of Zanzibar’s most exclusive and romantic islands is Mnemba Island. Engulfed by an underwater paradise, Mnemba Island is an open treasure chest offering explorations everywhere from the land to the sea. Swim alongside over 400 species of fish, vibrant coral reefs, and free roaming dolphins.

spice_marketWhen—or if—you tire of the beach, venture into the social and cultural hub of Zanzibar, Stone Town. This ancient town’s quaint streets are lined with over 200 years worth of history and culture, reflected in Arab architecture and intriguing museums and ancient sites. And don’t forget to visit Stone Town’s Forodhani Gardens for some Swahili culinary delights, fresh seafood, and delectable spices, grown right in Zanzibar’s world-famous spice plantations.

And, before leaving Zanzibar, you must see the red colobus monkey—exclusive to Zanzibar—in Jozani Forest.

Mozambique:

north_thmNothing is more soothing than visiting Mozambique’s white coastline and neighboring islands after an action-packed week on safari.  As a place where time slows and the senses become sharper, Mozambique isn’t just relaxing—it’s stimulating.

Feed your desire for exploration as you scuba dive beside shipwrecks and astonishing coral reefs and witness an aquatic legend—the dugong—as you partake on a dhow cruise to Linga Linga.

With an abundance of fresh, delectable prawns and other savory seafood, Mozambique is a seafood lover’s paradise. Every day is a culinary extravaganza on the islands off the coast of Mozambique.

snorkelling_at_medjumbe_custom__403_281Particularly stunning and romantic is Mozambique’s private island, Medjumbe. As an unbelievable haven for aquatic and island dwelling creatures this extremely exclusive island beckons you to search for new discoveries and excitement.

Explore coves and crevasses or relax on a swaying hammock strategically staked in the ebbing shore. Or, go barefoot as you comb the beach for fully in tacked shells.

Whatever you desire, Mozambique has it all.

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The Vibrant Colors and Cultural Fabrics of the Samburu People

On June 7, 2010, In African Safari Tours, Tanzania, Uganda, By Sandy Salle

SamburuAs one of Africa’s most unique cultures, the Samburu people are often recognized for their riveting beauty and decorative appearance. Samburu, which translates to mean “butterflies,” was given to the Samburu tribe by other tribes because of their layers and layers of bead-covered jewelry, fascinating face painting, and colorful dress.

The Samburu’s cloth dressing is called shukkas, which is accented with bracelets, necklaces, earrings, and colorful beads. Although the women make the jewelry, both men and women wear these gorgeous, decorative pieces.

Born from the Plains Nilotic movement in the Sudan, the Samburu tribe speaks a dialect of the Maa (Nilotic) language, which is a language spoken in Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, and parts of the Sudan. This derived dialect is now called the Samburu language.

SamburuToday, the Samburu tribe’s settlement spans nearly 80,000 square miles, which the tribe moves throughout in search of food and water for their cattle, goats, and camels. As nomadic-pastoralists, the Samburu tribe lives in groups of five to ten families and does not settle in one particular area for a long period of time. This mobile nature makes it difficult to build permanent residency; therefore, their huts are built from mud, hide, and grass, and are supported by large rods. This settlement of huts is referred to as manyattas.

The Samburu’s nomadic nature also limits their dietary staples, which predominantly consists of gathered roots and vegetables, and a mixture of milk and cow blood. Meat is only eaten on special occasions.

Below are several highlights from the Samburu culture:

The Role of Men and Women

With definitive gender roles, the Samburu tribe separates men and women in all aspects of their lifestyle. Traditionally, men are responsible for protecting their tribe and defending their cattle. While the men act as warriors and cattle care-givers, the women gather vegetables and roots from the area for their families. The women also cook, milk the cows, gather water, tend to the huts, and raise the children.

Children

At a young age, the boys of the Samburu are taught to hunt and raise cattle and are instilled with a warrior mindset. Their rite of passage into manhood involves a circumcision ritual, which occurs in their early teen years and involves the attendance of the entire village.

Once circumcised, the young man enters the stages of becoming a warrior and lives with the other adult males of the village. He then grows out his hair, braids it, and dyes it with red ocher, until he reaches his early twenties.

The young girls of the village help their mothers with chores and gathering food, and they too must pass through a rite of passage to womanhood.

Each of the Samburu girls is given necklaces by the young warriors and, eventually, the necklaces accumulate to create a large, thick necklace. During this beading stage, the young females hope to be given necklaces by their most admired warrior. By the age of 16, women should have enough necklaces to support the structure of their neck. This symbolizes that they are ready for marriage.

When a young man and woman marry, there is a series of elaborate rituals including an intense final ritual that involves the killing of a bull that enters the hut that is guarded by the bride’s mother. There is also much importance placed on the groom’s gifts to the family, which include two goatskins, two copper earrings, a container of milk, and a sheep. As a dowry, the male provides the bride’s family with cattle and sheep.

Samburu men often marry numerous times, especially if they are wealthy. Each of his wives will have her own hut with her children and these huts will form a circle.

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The Chimps of Greystoke Mahale: A World of Mystery Awaits You

On April 14, 2010, In African Safari Tours, Tanzania, By Sandy Salle
African honeymoon safari

Image from Greystoke Mahale website

Far from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, Greystoke Mahale camp, located at the edge of western Tanzania, is the embodiment of a distant paradise. Removed from the main tourist attractions of Tanzania, Greystoke Mahale is for travelers looking for the epitome of luxury, authenticity, and intimacy.

With a phenomenal location nestled between the Mahale Mountains within the privacy of towering trees and shady palms, each of Greystoke s six bandas overlooks the gleaming Lake Tanganyika. Here, visitors can enjoy relaxing days on the beach and in the water, spectacular sunsets off the horizon of this regal lake, and elegant dinners beneath the stars. The possibilities are truly endless.

But arguably, Greystoke s most captivating and famous feature is its nearby chimpanzee population. With the largest concentration of chimps in the world, the slopes of the Mahale Mountains offer visitors to Greystoke spectacular opportunities to observe these highly-intelligent creatures in the wild.

What you’ll see on a chimpanzee trekking excursion . . .

Chimp trekking is an absolute must when visiting Greystoke Mahale and is one of the most rewarding experiences.

As you enjoy a delightful walk through the lush forest behind Greystoke, a surprising mystery awaits you on the soft green slopes of the Mahale Mountains. With nearly 1,000 chimps living in the surrounding Gombe National Park, you ll see a variety of chimp families playing, foraging, and socializing.

One such family, known as The M Group, is comprised of individuals that live close to Greystoke and each have very specific character traits. For example, Pimu, the alpha male, is known for his dominant and aggressive behavior with females and the other males, while other chimps are famous for their high intelligence.

After just a few minutes with these magnificent creatures, you ll begin to see unique characteristics that separate each chimp from the next. You ll also immediately notice distinct correlations between the behavior of these chimps and that of humans.

In fact, the local tribe of Mahale believes that these beautiful creatures were once humans who moved into the woods and have now evolved into what we see today.

Whether you want to partake in chimp trekking each day of your vacation or one or two days of your trip, the staff at Greystoke can accommodate for all your needs and desires. For each trekking expedition, you ll be able to sit and observe the chimps for one hour at a time observing their everyday interactions and social behavior.

In addition to the impressive chimps, you ll also encounter eight other species of primates, leopard, buchbuck, bushpigs, and a wide spectrum of exotic bird and insect species, while on your tropical forest hike.

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Lukula Selous: Where Every Season Bears New Adventures

On April 7, 2010, In African Safari Tours, Tanzania, By Sandy Salle

Tanzania safari toursAn African safari experience encompasses much more than a scheduled morning and night game drive through the African bush. The true experience lies in your connection with nature, the people, and the land. Many times, African safari providers, camps, and lodges are merely focused on a scheduled touring session where participants can view animals and take pictures at a specific time of the day. But these safari goers rarely experience the authenticity and complexity of the region and its varying eco-systems on these rigidly scheduled safari tours.

There is more to a safari excursion than what you see right in front of you, and no one understands this concept more than Lukula Selous. Located in The Selous Game Reserve of Tanzania, Lukula Selous is comprised of a full team of expert staff and guides who believe in bringing the spirit of Africa and its radiant wildernesses to life for each and every guest.

Tanzania safari toursThrough their rich knowledge of the land, people, and animals, and traditional tracking abilities Lukula Selous highly-experienced and certified guides have the unique ability to immerse every guest into their natural surroundings. Specifically, guides introduce their safari participants to traditional tracking techniques and the various wildlife found throughout Tanzania during their year-round safari expeditions.

Below is a description of each season and what to expect when visiting during that specific time of year:

The High Season:

Some of the best months to experience a walking safari and vehicle safari in Tanzania are between mid-June and mid-November when the seasonal rains have vanished and animals move to the nearby rivers for nutrients. Thanks to the lack of vegetation and water supply, hippos, elephants, zebra, wildebeest, and impala are frequently spotted by the river banks, making tracking a bit easier during your walking safari.

Tanzania safari toursAs one of the most popular and adventurous forms of safari tours, a guided walking safari is full of exciting discoveries, and requires some detective work on your end. You ll learn how to use traditional tracking methods to find large game such as elephant and buffalo, and have access to grass hides, which allow for safe animal viewing and wonderful photography opportunities.

As the beginning of November approaches, plants blossom and migrant birds approach, creating a delightful mix of colors and extraordinary visual pleasures.

The Short Rains And The Long Rains:

Both characterized by adventurous activities, the short and long rains bear some of the most beautiful flora, and are some of the best times to track animal movement.

Tanzania safari toursThe short rains, which occur between mid-November and late January, bear an extraordinary display of wildflowers and lush flora. As the rains come, the rivers fill and drive hippos to the outer reaches of the tributaries. When January arrives, buffalo, wildebeest, and zebra move in large herds toward the hills, while impala remain in the plains with the elusive wild dog waiting to strike.
When the long rains come between the beginning of May to mid-June floodplains begin to dry and large and small game begin traveling to the main rivers as their main source for food supply and water.

Some of the greatest safari expeditions to enjoy during these months are extended walking safaris and canoeing safaris. The walking safaris provide a bit more excitement and adventure for visitors as tracking becomes a bit more challenging.

Patrolling And Monitoring Season:

Aimed toward the more adventurous, this season occurring between the beginning of February and continuing through the end of April offers Lukula Selous guests the rare opportunity to join Lukula guides in the field to perform censuses and to patrol. During these patrolling sessions, the team is dropped off at a start point via aircraft and then picked up a few days later at a predetermined destination. Food and supplies are provided for all members of the patrolling session.

No Matter The Season . . .

As small guided groups travel through the beautiful reaches of The Selous Game Reserve, new discoveries and adventures constantly arise. Lukula Selous guides don t focus on a rigid schedule, as the wilderness can often be unpredictable. Rather, their excursions are flexible and geared toward finding the prime spots that yield an abundance of wildlife. Therefore, you never know where the day might take you, but you re sure to discover new and exciting things each day.

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Witness a Natural Wonder of the World: The Great Migration

On March 29, 2010, In African Safari Tours, Tanzania, By Sandy Salle

As the main migration route for the wildebeest and other migratory game, Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park offers visitors a rare look into bewildering animal migration patterns and phenomenal game viewing opportunities. Spanning 5,700 square miles, the Serengeti National Park is rich with a variety of eco-systems, and landform variations and contrasts including open plains, hills, grassy plains, rocky terrain, acacias, savannah woodlands, riverine forests, and a spattering of swamps and lakes.

But what makes this World Heritage Site so spectacular is not just its irresistible beauty, but the unimaginable amount of game that passes through this lively region in search of water during one of the major wonders of the world The Great Migration.

The staggering numbers of wildebeest, zebra, and antelope is jaw-dropping alone and helps to set the stage for the thrill of the Serengeti. With lurking predators abound, the Serengeti tells the tale of life, death, and the survival of the fittest.

Understanding The Great Migration

Every year, The Great Migration occurs around the general rainfall of the area and influences grazing patterns. It is impossible to pinpoint when the migration will occur as it solely depends on Mother Nature. Therefore, one cannot book a trip in advance to the Serengeti with the guarantee that they will witness this natural wonder. But, whether visiting the Serengeti National Park before, during, or after The Great Migration, visitors are rewarded with an abundance of exceptional game and bird viewing opportunities, adventure, and enveloping natural beauty.

The migration begins in Kenya and slowly moves back toward the short grasses of the Serengeti, following the short rains, which usually occur in late October / early November. Once the grass plains have lost their water supply, the migration follows the rains northwest in order to find lush grass. This change of scenery usually occurs in May.

The migration is never a perfect circle. Rather, the animals move in batches, side to side, backwards, horizontal, and whichever way they choose to follow the rains, which is why it s impossible to detect exactly where the migration will travel.

Visiting the Serengeti National Park during The Great Migration

One of the most exciting times to enjoy a vehicle safari tour in the Serengeti is during April / May when predators are drawn to the area in search of prey. Lions, cheetahs, and hyenas are some of the most commonly spotted predators to witness during this time, and are captivating to watch as they stalk their prey from the shadow of a rock or the comfort of a tree limb.

For visitors who want to travel with the packs of millions of wildebeest and families of zebra, the mobile Serengeti Safari Camp, offered by Nomad Tanzania, brings discerning travelers up-close to the massive herds of large, migratory game. The camp shadows the migration patterns of the wildebeest and zebra, and visitors receive a private safari guide and 4WD vehicle to get into the field and witness the elusive Great Migration occur right before their eyes.

Visiting the Serengeti National Park Prior or Post to The Great Migration

Although The Great Migration is an unforgettable event of epic proportions, visiting the Serengeti during times when the migration is not occurring is absolutely spectacular. With over 500 species of bird, 35 species of large game, and millions of wildebeest, and thousands of zebra, Grant s gazelle, giraffe, lion, hyena, leopard, and elephant, the Serengeti is anything but monotonous and bland when The Great Migration isn t occurring. In fact, it s one of Africa s most exciting and riveting places to visit year-round something many areas throughout the world cannot brag about.

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Discover Zanzibar through the History of the Land and Mystery of the Ocean

On March 24, 2010, In Honeymoon Safaris, Safari Safety, Tanzania, By Sandy Salle

Zanzibar honeymoonFew places in the world still have the justification to brag about the preservation of their indigenous wildlife, forests, ancient history, and aquatic life. But on Tanzania’s neighboring archipelago, Zanzibar, nearly all its history, culture, and wildlife are preserved. Through old and extravagant Arab architecture, narrow streets and alleys, pristine beaches and reefs, and the Jozani Forest, it s apparent that Zanzibar has kept its same charm and unspoiled natural elements for centuries.

Accommodating every preference for outdoor activities, the Zanzibar islands are home to exceptional scuba diving and snorkeling, historic and cultural sites, paradise beaches, and wildlife tours. With something for everyone, Zanzibar is the ultimate destination for families and honeymooners alike looking for the perfect, completely customized vacation.

Zanzibar honeymoonAside from the radiant white beaches, Zanzibar has a wide variety of land-based and ocean-based activities and tours to choose from:

Activities and Tours on Land

Spice Plantation Tours: Zanzibar, also known as Spice Island thanks to its high production rate of spices, is home to a handful of bustling spice plantations that yield cloves, nutmeg, cinnamon, pepper, and other delightful spices. Playing a large role in the history of Zanzibar, Spice Plantations had once attracted Sultans of Oman for their rich spice production, which eventually led to the beginnings of the notorious slave trade.

Tanzania family safariWhile on a spice plantation tour, you have the opportunity to learn about the medicinal and dietary uses for spices and discover how to cook and heal with them. You ll also be able to purchase spices at a low price and taste them throughout the tour.

Stone Town: Known as the cultural center of Zanzibar, Stone Town reflects over 200 years of history and culture through its old-world buildings and charm. As a recently declared World Heritage Site, Zanzibar reveals its past through its current existence. From 19th-century homes to historic landmarks, and annual festivities to traditional music concerts, Zanzibar has been able to preserve its rich cultural background and history for the past two centuries.

Some of the main sites to see when you re on a tour in Stone Town include The Old Dispensary, The Market, David Livingstone s home, The Peace Memorial Museum, The Palace Museum, The House of Wonders, and The Arab Fort.

Zanzibar toursJozani Forest: To experience the wildlife up-close in Zanzibar, a tour through the Jozani Natural Forest Reserve is the ideal way to view some of Zanzibar s most exotic creatures. From the indigenous and rare Red Colobus Monkey to the Syke s Monkey, and small buck to bush pig to leopard, this elusive forest has been attracting curious travelers for decades.

Activities and Tours off the Coastline:

Scuba Diving and snorkeling: The coastlines of the Zanzibar Islands are famous for their enchanting aquatic world of coral reefs, brightly colored fish, sharks, manta rays, and other marine life. Experienced divers have a diverse menu of dives they can take part in including wall dives, night dives, and drift dives. And beginner divers can also enjoy the fascinating coral reefs and fish, but from shallower depths.

Snorkeling is also offered throughout the islands and is a wonderful way to view the aquatic paradise from the comfort of the surface.

Zanzibar accommodationDhow Cruise: Sail to the island of Unguja via a traditional dhow and enjoy a delightful day of swimming, snorkeling, and sun bathing. At lunch time, relish in a five star seafood meal as you bask on a nearby sandbank.

Prison Island: Once the grounds for exiled slaves, Prison Island is now home to a magnificent giant tortoise sanctuary, stunning beaches, and exceptional snorkeling. Enjoy a day trip to this delightful island and relax beneath the sun or in the crystal clear Indian Ocean.

Watersports: With a handful of watersports providers across the Zanzibar Islands, you re sure to find an activity to fit your individual needs and preferences. Choose from big game fishing, snorkeling, dhow cruises, kayaking, windsurfing, waterskiing, kite boarding, and other water-related activities.

Mnemba Island: Celebrated for its romantic ambiance, untouched beaches, intimate setting, and underwater paradise, Mnemba Island is the ultimate romantic retreat for honeymooners, and is one of Zanzibar s most striking islands. On land, visitors can enjoy hours of bright sunshine, beach walks, and refreshing drinks. And, while underwater, visitors can experience delightful scuba diving and snorkeling hand in hand.

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Tanzania Honeymoon Safari: A Seamless Marriage of Relaxation and Adventure

On March 8, 2010, In African Safari Tours, Honeymoon Safaris, Tanzania, By Sandy Salle
African honeymoon safari

Image from Greystoke Mahale website

The formula for the ultimate destination honeymoon may be subjective, but one part of the destination honeymoon equation I think we can all agree on is the outcome: romance. But, if you’re like many honeymooners who come to us looking, not only for romance, but also for adventure and relaxation, you’ll find an African honeymoon safari exceeds your expectations for the ultimate destination honeymoon.

One of our clients’ favorite places to enjoy a romantic honeymoon safari is at Greystoke Mahale. Designed with impeccable precision and taste and a strong appreciation for nature, the camp’s six bandas were constructed with old dhow timber, authentic honeymoon safari style interiors, and an open-front layout. Each and every luxurious detail of these quaint bungalows uniquely compliments the wilderness they’re located within. Nestled within a forest rich with mysterious wildlife and a variety of curious primates, Greystoke Mahale is a lively hub for exploration.

Aside from its exceptional design and layout, Greystoke Mahale is home to incredible and rare creatures living right outside the camp, including nine species of primates, leopard, bushbuck, and bush pig. Hiking in the tropical forest, chimpanzee trekking, walking safaris, and canoeing safaris are just a few spectacular ways to experience the adventure and beauty of the Tanzania wilderness.

Although adventure is a wonderful component of a honeymoon safari, there is more to it then excitement and high-energy activities. There needs to be romance, relaxation, and rejuvenation seamlessly woven in.

Here are a few ways to be adventurous and to relax with nature and connect as newlyweds at Greystoke Mahale:

African honeymoon safari

Image from Greystoke Mahale website

Relaxing bush walks vs. chimpanzee trekking: Enjoy a relaxing bush walk through the forests surrounding Greystoke for a rare insight into a variety of primates, vibrant birds, and bush animals or, if you’re feeling a bit more adventurous, partake in one of the lodge’s chimpanzee trekking safaris. It’s important to note that the chimpanzee trekking safaris are a bit more strenuous than the bush walks and often require more elevated walking. We suggest a slow-paced walking safari for the days you want to relax and a chimpanzee trekking safari for days you feel more adventurous!

Soft golden beaches vs. the “chill out” deck: Whether you’re looking for a place to relax and soak in the sun during the day, or a place to enjoy a candlelit dinner for two, the beach and the “chill out” deck both offer the ultimate barefoot setting. For a more secluded experience, relax in the privacy of your own chalet as you walk upstairs to your private “chill out” deck to observe the singing birds and charming butterflies—also perfect for star gazing and eating a delicious dinner at night.

For the mornings you want to lie on the beach, step outside the front entrance of your chalet right onto the beach—merely steps from the comfort of your bed. Whether you want to take a nighttime stroll on the beach, relax by the lake during the day, sip sundowners at the bar on the rocks, or enjoy a romantic dinner for two on the beach beneath the stars, you can have it all.

African honeymoon safari

Image from Greystoke Mahale website

Fishing vs. Kayaking: On days you want to experience a hint of adventure, take one of Greystoke’s kayaks on the lake for a closer look at the coastal wildlife and vegetation, or, if you’d rather drop a line in the water with a cocktail in hand, you can catch a variety of fish as the lake is home to over 250 species of fish.

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The Nile Crocodile: A Fierce And Unique Predator

On February 17, 2010, In African Safari Tours, African Wildlife, Tanzania, By Sandy Salle

nile crocodile

Photo Taken From http://animals.nationalgeographic.com

by Mark Homann, certified safari guide

The Nile crocodile is a top-of-the-line predator with very few predators of its own. Although the largest record found of the Nile crocodile was in Lake Victoria, Tanzania, measuring 21 ft. in length and weighing 2400 lbs, it’s rare to find these creatures over 16 ft. in length. A crocodile this large must have been very old—likely over 100 years.

They are sexually dimorphic animals, meaning that the male is 30% smaller than the female. One of the advantages to this is that it allows the female to lay more eggs—up to 80 at times.

Unlike other crocodiles the Nile crocodile doesn’t incubate their eggs in rotting vegetation. Rather, they burry them near water in holes dug about 20 in. deep. The gender of the offspring is determined by the temperature in the nest. If the temperature reaches below 89 degrees Fahrenheit, the egg will yield a male and if the nest reaches above 94 degrees Fahrenheit, the egg will yield a female. Although the mother doesn’t incubate the eggs, she does stay close by to guard them from predators, and will continue to protect them for the first two years of their life.

Nile CrocodileThe anatomy of the crocodile makes them a ferocious predator. They are capable of feeding on animals as large as the Cape buffalo and, similar to birds, they have a 4-chambered heart that allows for highly oxygenated blood to pass through, enabling them to stay under water for up to two hours in extreme circumstances.

Their exothermic or cold-blooded metabolism allows them to go for very long periods of time without food. In fact, in the Mara river of Kenya, crocodiles are thought to eat once a year when the wildebeest migration comes through. When crocodiles do eat, they can eat half their body weight in one meal.

During the 1960s, the Nile crocodile faced extinction in many areas of Africa due to hunting and poaching for their skins. But, with the development of a sustainable crocodile farming industry, their numbers have thrived. So, be careful next time you dangle your toes in the water.

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Experience the Sights, Sounds, and Scents of the African Bush at Serengeti Safari Camp

On November 27, 2009, In African Safari Tours, Family Safaris, Honeymoon Safaris, Tanzania, By Sandy Salle
Photo from Serengeti Safari Camp website

Photo from Serengeti Safari Camp website

Quiet, peaceful, and intimate, the Serengeti Safari Camp in Tanzania reflects the Eastern African bush in its campsite design and setup. Accommodating up to 12 people in its six canvas-lined tents, the Serengeti Safari Camp is for travelers who desire a small, yet highly-sociable atmosphere, and an authentic experience in the African bush.

The open-aired tents invite the sounds, scents, and sights of the Eastern African bush inside, providing each tent with its rich essence of authenticity. With a nature-inspired feel, the Serengeti Safari Camp isn’t the traditional high-end, luxurious accommodation. Rather, its rustic appeal invites guests to relax with the comfort of nature and modern amenities. Guests enjoy plush beds with fine bedding, en-suite bathrooms with traditional safari-style bucket showers, and a spacious dressing and lounging area.

Photo from Serengeti Safari Camp website

Photo from Serengeti Safari Camp website

When travelers aren’t winding-down with a siesta or enjoying the sights of the African bush from their room, they can travel down to the dining tent, which acts as both the library and dining area. Reflecting a country-style ambiance, the dining area is lit with candles, comprised of stocked bookshelves, and open to its natural surroundings, giving each guest a sociable and romantic dining experience as well as a beautiful view of the sprawling Serengeti. Chefs at the camp are extremely talented when it comes to culinary creations and cook with only the freshest ingredients.

Although the camp’s amenities and accommodations are exceptional, one of its most appealing characteristics is its off-the-beaten path safari game drives. Guests experience the ultimate personalized safari tours through the Serengeti with Eastern Africa’s finest safari guides. These guides are extremely familiar with the area and its diverse eco-systems, providing the best knowledge to their vehicle passengers.

Photo from Serengeti Safari Website

Photo from Serengeti Safari Website

Each game drive features sightings of some of Eastern Africa’s most stunning game, including buffalo, elephant, cheetah, and much more, as well as a wide range of exotic bird species. And, visitors lucky enough to experience a game drive through the Serengeti during the annual wildebeest migration witness the largest migration on earth.

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