In the Footsteps of Tusk – Tanzania
Tanzania's natural beauty spans the plains of the Serengeti, snow capped peaks of Kilimanjaro, meandering rivers of the Ruaha and the clear crystal waters of the Indian Ocean. A mecca for wildlife on land and in the ocean, Tanzania arguably offers the best "bush & beach" experience in Africa.
Day 1 - 3
Serengeti National Park
Vast, undulating grassy plains scattered with acacia trees and a background of rocky kopjes, the Serengeti provides a picture perfect safari setting. Throughout the year over 1.5 million wildebeest and 200,000 zebra constantly migrate throughout the Serengeti eco system – one of the Wonders of the Natural World – providing unique and exhilarating safari moments.
Amongst the richest grazing grounds in Africa, The Serengeti supports a magnificent diversity and abundance of animals, making it one of the safari giants. Even with this exceptional reputation, the Serengeti still manages to surpass expectations time and time again.
Day 4 - 6
Ruaha National Park
The Ruaha National Park is located in the southeast area of Tanzania and exudes an aura of untrammelled wilderness. Holding around a tenth of the world’s lions, at 50,000km2, the Ruaha protects vast tracts of rugged, semi-arid bush that characterises central Tanzania.
Whilst being one of the largest parks in Tanzania, the Ruaha has only a handful camps and lodges. Days can be spent without seeing another soul, coupled with a night under the stars fly camping, creating long lasting memories.
Day 7 - 11
Zanzibar
A slice of tropical paradise. Soft white sands fringed by gently swaying palms and warm, marine rich waters is the perfect setting as white sailed dhows journey by.
Known as the “Spice Island” Zanzibar’s deep rooted history is rich with culture brought from the traders of East Africa adding to the flavour of the island. From the markets of stone town to exploring the reefs of the Mnemba Atoll, time on Zanzibar may be the perfect way to end an East African safari.
Tusk Impact
Tusk supports Global Animal Health and The Ruaha Carnivore Project on mainland Tanzania. These projects are dedicated to protecting carnivores within the Serengeti and Ruaha eco-systems as there is often a cross over in land use by pastoralists and wildlife, creating serious human – carnivore conflict as large carnivores tent to cause particaulrly intense conflict. Both projects work hand in hand with the local communities to incentivize human-carnivore co-existence.
Within the Ocean, just off of North East Zanzibar, is the Mnemba House Reef. Tusk supports Oceans without Borders to support their successful regeneration of the reef which has experienced huge decline over the last 20 years due to over fishing, tourism and climate change.
Serengeti NP
The breathtakingly beautiful, vast plains of the Serengeti National Park. © Serian
Stay
Traditional, canvas, tented accommodation is one of the best ways to enjoy the Serengeti. Far from “camping”, our partners in the Serengeti offer the luxuries of some of the worlds top hotels, without the fuss, and completely off grid. ©Serian
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Sunrise safari over the Serengeti in a hot air balloon is a ‘bucket list’ for many travellers on safari. An exceptional, unforgettable experience floating above the plains with a birds eye view of the wildlife below. ©Serengeti Balloon Safaris
Conservation
Tusk supported Global Animal Health Tanzania targets the problem of rabies being transmitted from domestic dogs to wildlife. It is suspected that rabies contributed to the disappearance of wild dogs from the Serengeti in the early 90s. As the population recolonizes in the area, GAHT are dedicated to this never happening again. Tusk provides a grant for fuel, staff and syringes, enabling the vaccination of 7,800 domestic dogs in 30 Maasai communities.
Ruaha
A direct flight from the Serengeti takes you to the heart of Tanzania. The Ruaha is a dramatic area of wilderness with prolific wildlife, especially carnivores. Large prides of lion, often 20 or more, can be seen as well as wild dog and leopard within the ever changing aspect of the National Park. © Nomad
Stay
Camps and lodges are located in prime wildlife areas. However, with few camps in this enormous park, it is likely you won’t come across anyone else during your time in the Ruaha. ©Jongomero
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©Jongomero
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Walking safaris allow the opportunity to understand the smaller and wider aspects of safari. Spoor marks, dung types, vegetation medicinal elements, ‘the little 5’ and so much more. There is also the opportunity to walk with the larger resident wildlife. ©Jongomero
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Fly camping is perhaps the most natural way to appreciate your surroundings. Where luxuries are the simple pleasures of space and embracing the rhythm of nature. It goes without saying there will be delicious, freshly prepared meals, cool drinks and, most importantly, expert guiding. ©Nomad
Conservation
The Ruaha Carnivore Project operates throughout central Tanzania, where there is frequent human – wildlife conflict. Their aim is to reduce livestock losses, provide benefits to local communities and promote tolerance and conservation of wild carnivores. Since 2013, Tusk has been a committed supporter of RCP, providing core operating costs and funding for specific requirements. This commitment is essential for long term success.
Mnemba
Just north of Zanzibar is the Mnemba Atoll, with some of the best snorkelling and diving opportunities to enjoy due to it’s rich coral reefs. ©&BeyondMnemba
Conservation
Coral reefs are the rainforests of the sea. Tusk supports African Foundation Oceans without Borders within the Mnemba Atoll just off of Zanibar. This coral reef system has deteriorated significantly over the past 2 decades, with coral cover down to 5%. The project aims to support the restoration and community-based conservation of the coral reefs associated with Mnemba Island through the establishment of a community coral nursery programme.
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Resulting in the transplantation of up to 420 coral pieces per month from the coral reef nursery to the Atoll.
Stay
It is possible to stay on the island of Mnemba, where bare foot luxury meets unpretentious exclusivity. However, it is easily accessible from Zanzibar via a short boat journey. ©&BeyondMnemba
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Time to relax and digest where you have been on your adventure through Tanzania, where you are now, and what the future is for these remote, wild parts of Africa. ©&BeyondMnemba
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©&BeyondMnemba