page no. 1 Tanzania€¦ · Supplement R.n.I. no. mAHenG/2007/22231 Reg. no. mH/mR/South-262/2010-12 page no. 1 Tanzania THE LAND OF KILIMANJARO, ZANZIBAR & THE SERENGETI June 16

SupplementR.n.I. no. mAHenG/2007/22231

Reg. no. mH/mR/South-262/2010-12

page no. 1

TanzaniaTHE LAND OF KILIMANJARO, ZANZIBAR & THE SERENGETI

June 16 - 30, 2011

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The largest country in East Africa, Tanzania is among the most naturally diverse

nations in the world. Shortly after achieving independence from Britain in the early 1960s, Tanganyika and Zanzibar merged to form the nation of Tanzania in 1964. The country lies just South of the Equator and is an immensely rewarding tourist destination. Tanzania flaunts world-famous attractions like the Endless Plains of the Serengeti, the world famous and a Natural Wonder of the World - Ngorongoro Crater, Mount Kilimanjaro - ‘The Mountain of God,’ touted as the world’s highest free standing mountain and Zanzibar- the ‘Spice Island,’ with its idyllic palm-fringed beaches and historic Stone Town. Both seasoned and first time travelers will find that there is a whole lot more to explore in Tanzania than these obvious attractions.

Tanzania has about 1,400 km of coastline along the

Indian Ocean. It is well situated geographically bordering Burundi, Kenya, Malawi, Mozambique, Rwanda, Uganda, Zambia and the Democratic Republic of Congo. It is the economic hub of East Africa providing natural access and commercial links to eight countries, thanks to East Africa’s biggest and natural Sea Port of Dar-Es-Salaam – the commercial capital of Tanzania.

The Tanzania Tourist Board (TTB) is a relatively new entrant in the Indian market but is focusing in a big way to tap the burgeoning Indian outbound segment. Akqua Tourism and Destinations Pvt Ltd is partnering and assisting the board in marketing and promoting Tanzania as a mono destination in the Indian market given its diverse product offerings. Apart from wildlife safaris and beaches, the objective is to promote it as an Adventure and Cultural Tourism destination. Tanzania and its offerings can

be simplified into three main categories: all Safari packages, Safari plus Island packages and all Island packages.

Prime AttractionsWildlife safari’s, exotic beach & island vacations, mountain climbing, trekking, snorkeling, deep sea diving, hot air ballooning, horseback -safari’s, water sports are among the popular adventure activities. Mt. Kilimanjaro in North-Eastern Tanzania is the highest mountain in Africa at 19,334 feet and can be scaled by even amateurs. Summit trek package of six nights cost approximately USD 1,300 per person. Serengeti National Park also has a number of hot air balloon safaris, similar safaris are going to be initiated at Lake Manyara. A three hour flight with Champagne breakfast cost USD 450 per person. The Ngorongoro Crater is a dream destination populated with wildlife throughout the year.

Olduvai Gorge - the ‘Cradle of Mankind’ between Serengeti and Ngorongoro National Parks is one of the most important pre-historic sites in the world with excavations revealing first artifacts which are more than two million years old. There is a small museum at the site. Cultural aspect also includes visit to Masai Boma (villages).

Zanzibar is yet another alluring aspect of Tanzania and is comparable with some of the world’s most pristine beach destinations. The coral reefs surrounding the East coast are rich in marine diversity and Zanzibar, an archipelago made up of Pemba Islands and several islets is ideal for snorkeling and deep sea diving. Zanzibar also has an International Diving Centre, special Dolphin Tours and Island Tours. The island is also a historical and cultural destination; the highlight being Stone Town now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is the old city which has changed little in the last 200 years.

Tapping Indian OutboundIndia is a big potential market and TTB intends to target the FIT and honeymoon segments, as well as the corporate sector for Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions (MICE), particularly the Incentives and Conferences segment. The International Convention Centre in Arusha in Northern Tanzania has a capacity to accommodate 1,350 people. Dar es Salaam, the largest city and commercial capital has a convention hall with a capacity of 1,000 and another one of the same capacity is coming up in Zanzibar.

Tanzania is also developing Golf Tourism to attract corporate traffic. Currently, the country has six nine-hole golf courses, whereas an 18-hole private golf course is being developed in Arusha, which will be ready by June 2011. Akqua Destinations is developing Special Golf Tourism packages for all

The east african nation of Tanzania is often underestimated and ignored by the indian tourist. banking on its abundant wildlife, ancient history and culture and idyllic islands, Tanzania seeks to tantalize the indian market with its variety. TravelBiz Monitor explores the tourism offerings and potential of Tanzania

Tanzania: Untamed Beauty

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target markets. Another activity which will attract the corporate sector and high-end tourists is polo. A private polo ground is available in Arusha and plans are afoot to hold exhibition matches there and also develop training sessions. A day or two of training session can be combined with coastal itineraries and offered as a package.

In India the target audience is the growing middle class and high-end premium or luxury segment travelers. Tanzania has products to suit both these segments. For example a four nights/five day safari tour is available for USD 1,100 per person and also for USD 5,000 per person. The latter includes stay in five-star resorts and lodges and offers exclusive experiences like staying on the rim of the Ngorongoro Crater or on the migration path in Serengeti National Park, etc. Zanzibar packages of four nights are priced

at USD 400 per person and this includes stay in four-star plus resorts, meals and local liquor, which is quite a value for money proposition. TTB plans to focus mainly on Indian metros in 2011 and will subsequently cover Tier I and II cities. Other recent developments include starting of night safaris at Lake Manyara and Tarangire National Parks. Hot air balloon safaris, which are very popular draw at Serengeti National Park, will also be offered at Lake Manyara National Park.

Marketing StrategyGiven the destination’s popularity in India, TTB’s strategy currently is more on a B2B level and the focus is on creating awareness about the destination and educating the travel trade. Akqua Destinations in association with TTB is planning to organize road shows for agents; so far three such road shows were conducted in Mumbai and Delhi wherein about 10-15 suppliers from Tanzania interacted with their travel trade counterparts in India. A promotional event in the form of a food festival

MAJOR CITIES & INTERNATIONAL AIRPORTS Dar es Salaam, Arusha, Zanzibar, Dodoma (capital) are the major cities. Tanzania has 3 International Airports: Dar-Es-Salaam, Kilimanjaro (Arusha) and Zanzibar (Island).

VISASVisas are either available on Arrival at all landing points in Tanzania as also in all Tanzania High Commission’s across the globe. In India the Tanzania High Commission is in New Delhi where visas can be easily processed.

AIR CONNECTIVITY FROM INDIACurrently there are no direct flights from India to Tanzania. Two African airlines and three Middle East based airlines offer flights from various cities of India to Tanzania. Total flight time with stop over is about 10 hours while direct flights would take about five hours. Details of international airlines flights to Tanzania from India are:

Ethiopian Airlines: Daily from Mumbai and Delhi to all three international airports in Tanzania via Adiss

Ababa

Kenya Airways: Daily from Mumbai to all three international airports in Tanzania via Nairobi

Qatar Airways: Daily from Mumbai / Delhi / Chennai / Hyderabad / Bangalore / Trivandrum / Cochin to Dar es Salaam via Doha

Emirates: Daily from Mumbai / Delhi / Chennai / Hyderabad / Bangalore / Kolkata / Trivandrum / Cochin to Dar es Salaam via Dubai

Oman Airways: From Mumbai (4 days a week) / Delhi (4 days a week) / Chennai (3 days a week) / Bangalore (once a week) / Hyderabad (3 days a week) / Trivandrum (2 days a week) / Cochin (2 days a week) to Dar es Salaam via Muscat

LOCATIONS OF CITIES & SAFARI PARKS North Tanzania Airport Kilimanjaro International Airport Arusha Airport (Domestic) City/Town Arusha / Moshi Safari Parks Serengeti National Park / Ngorongoro Crater / Lake Manyara National Park Tarangire National Park / Mount Kilimanjaro / Mt. Kilimanjaro National Park / Mount MeruSouth Tanzania Airport Dar-Es-Salaam International Airport City / Town Dar-Es-Salaam, Dodoma, Morogoro, Bagamoyo Safari Parks Mikumi National Park / Selous Game Reserve

Zanzibar Island Airport Zanzibar International Airport

LANguAgE: 90% of people in Tanzania are educated in basic English and can converse very well. The other language widely spoken is – the local language – SWAHILI.

FOOD: Tanzanian Cuisine is very similar to Indian Cuisine – the process of cooking is similar to the Indian style and so is the use of spices. Apart from this one can commonly find all types of World Cuisine along with Indian Food. Jain Food also is available on request. All Lodges in Safari Parks and City Hotels have Chef’s who can prepare Indian food on request. Tanzania is one of the best destinations in terms of availability of food and World Cuisine

FACT FILE

“While some parts of Africa have seen substantial increase in number of Indian tourists, Tanzania has a way to go before it catches up. However, the potential is enormous, as Tanzania abounds in exciting opportunities for discerning Indian tourists. The wildlife is spectacular, internal air connectivity with various low cost airlines is very good, accommodation is superb and the magic island of Zanzibar is a terrific destination for weddings, MICE or just ‘chilling out.’ Increased air connectivity from India, especially direct flights will make a difference.”

Ajay Prakash, President, TAFI

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with Tanzanian chefs and dancers is also being planned apart from a FAM trip for agents for early 2011; besides Akqua Destinations is continuously conducting special exclusive workshops for sales and operations staff of big tour operators. They recently conducted a workshop with Travel Masters India Corporation in Chennai and plan to organize about three such workshops in a year. It is also in the process of tying up with a few tour operators for joint promotions like advertising and brochures.

Akqua Destinations will conduct two FAM trips-annually for agents to give them a first hand experience of the destination. One such trip was conducted in June 2009 and another one in March 2010. TTB has created visibility for their brand by participating in major trade exhibitions in India and is also working on a FAM for a few Indian film producers and directors to showcase Tanzania as a location for film shoots.

Talking PointsTanzania is blessed with interesting wildlife, one of the world’s best and inspiring landscapes; because a staggering forty percent of the country is protected in some form or other; ranging from forest-covered volcanic peaks to dusty savanna populated by elephants, antelopes, lions, leopards and cheetahs. It is one of the four most naturally diverse nations on earth: it contains Africa’s second-largest number of bird species (around 1500), the continent’s biggest mammal population and three-quarters of East Africa’s plant species (over ten thousand). Add to this the country’s rich ethnic diversity, some superb hiking and other activities like snorkeling and diving, and you have the makings of a holiday of a lifetime.

For all its natural diversity, Tanzania’s best asset are its people - friendly, welcoming, unassumingly proud and yet reserved – travelers will be treated with uncommon warmth and courtesy wherever they go. The best known tribe are the Masai, a pastoralist cattle herding people

“Tanzania is a high-end luxury destination. I would recommend Tanzania to anyone interested in wildlife, jungle resort and beach resorts. It will appeal to FIT and luxury travellers who want a different experience like wildlife safari or go hiking on an extinct volcano. Tanzania offers an escape from the urban city life and provides a relaxing environment.“

Pradeep Lulla, Chairman & MD, Cupid Travels, Immediate Past

President, TAFI

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who inhabit the region around the safari parks in the North, yet there are at least 127 other tribes in Tanzania, perhaps not as visually colorful as the red-robed, spear-carrying Masai warriors, but having equally rich traditions, histories, customs, beliefs and music, much of which has survived despite the ravages of colonialism, modernity and Christianity. For wildlife enthusiasts and those keen to experience a genuine African safari, Tanzania is the perfect escape into the wilderness complete with all its pomp and glory.

The African ExperienceQuite like mainland Tanzania, there is no dearth of tourism service providers in Zanzibar, hotel rooms are available across all segments and food options are aplenty. But from an Indian perspective, both Tanzania and Zanzibar can be slotted as destinations for the ‘experienced’ traveler. These destinations are definitely enticing in nature but the captive

audience for marketing such locations in India is still niche. Contrary to the mind-set of first timers visiting Africa; such locations (in all possibility) will be on the radar of well travelled individuals seeking rustic, genuine wildlife safaris in natural game reserves and the tranquility offered by a fascinating archipelago amidst the Indian ocean.

From the confines of a rustic jungle lodge in the heart of a Tanzanian game reserve to white sandy beaches of Zanzibar, Tanzania sums up to be a holistic destination for Indians. Armed with a plethora of enticing options which hold the potential of vying the most avid wildlife enthusiasts along with adventure, leisure and business travelers, Tanzania allows for luxury to be experienced from both ends of the spectrum. The escape into wilderness will certainly create a long lasting impact on those engaged and also brings one closer to experiencing silence, solidarity and nature in its most primal form. n

“Tanzania has a good scope as a leisure and wildlife destination and can easily attract Indian tourists. The people in Tanzania are friendly and hospitable. They are keen and the locals are eager to attract attention of a passing tourist. This could work well with Indians. Tanzania is a destination for families with children. The offerings in the country can be divided into beaches and wildlife. The beaches in Zanzibar are still undiscovered and could attract leisure and luxury travellers from India. There are good quality resorts near these beaches. Wildlife is a strong feature in Tanzania. Safari rides in Serengeti and climbing the volcanic hills of Ol Donyo Lengai could interest FITs and high-end luxury travellers from India. “

Chitra Bhatia, MD, Uniglobe Aasman Travels

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Akqua Destinations - promotes select Global Tourism Destinations all over the world. It is currently promoting Tanzania and Tuscany. The company promotes tourism, services and products in association with Tourism Boards, service providers and international airlines and also organizes promotional events in India and other overseas markets.

“Tanzania is one of the most sought after wildlife and beach destination in the world with packages starting from as low as 400 USD. The natural beauty of the country will astonish clients. Tanzania holidays are for peace and nature lovers, families and friends who want to spend quality time together, as well as people who want to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life. It offers a unique and life long experience and adventure. Tanzania holidays are incomparable to any other global tourist destination.”

—Jilesh Babla, MD, Akqua Tourism & Destinations Pvt. Ltd.

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Tanzania is diverse and unique owing to the varied topography of the land and

the intrepid traveller will observe that no two game reserves are similar in nature and appearance. The Northern part of Tanzania is largely popular as a wildlife circuit for it houses the world renowned Serengeti and the Ngorongoro Crater. Both the parks are ideal for tourists to spot Africa’s big five - Elephant, Leopard, Lion, Rhino and Buffalo. The Northern wildlife circuit is the most developed in Tanzania and hence ideal for travelers to thoroughly experience the wildlife in the most primal environment. Standing tall at 5,985 metres, Mount Kilimanjaro - the highest peak in Africa and also the tallest free standing mountain in the world is yet another major attraction of Northern Tanzania. A trip to the North is incomplete without visiting Ngorongoro Crater, which is the world’s largest natural and unbroken cauldron like volcanic feature formed due to the eruption and collapse of a volcano some two million years ago. The crater forms a natural enclosure for a variety of mammals and birds and offers breathtaking panoramic views

ARUShA: Gateway to TanzaniaLocated in the northern highlands of Tanzania, beneath the twin peaks of Mount Meru and Mount Kilimanjaro, Arusha is the safari capital of Tanzania. The city is the capital of Arusha region and is surrounded by some of Tanzania’s national parks. It is a gateway town for visitors embarking on the northern safari circuit. Arusha’s highland setting also makes it a peaceful idyll of relaxation.

Built by the Germans as a centre of colonial administration in the early 20th Century, Arusha was a quaint town with a garrison stationed and a few shops around a grassy roundabout. From its backwater status amidst

the farmlands and plantations of northern Tanzania, today Arusha is one of the country’s most prosperous towns. With the headquarters for the Tripartite commission for East African Co-operation based in the city, Arusha is a major centre of Tanzanian diplomacy and International Relations.

Tourists can find ample accommodation options; safari and tour operators in Arusha. The Massai are the most influential tribe in this region and Swahili is the most widely spoken language along with English. Arusha is served by Kilimanjaro International Airport located 60 km east of the city while Arusha Airport is a smaller domestic airport in the west of the city, currently undergoing expansion. Most notable districts in Arusha are the Central Business Area, located by the Clock tower, Sekeiin the North-West; largely residential with a vibrant nightlife along with Njiro, a posh rapidly-growing suburb in the South, and Tengeru, a lively market town in the East. There are no passenger train services to or from Arusha, but there are regular coaches (buses) to Nairobi, Dodoma and Dar Es Salaam and other local towns. n

popular for its world famous wildlife circuit, Tanzania’s northern region is also home to the ‘Mountain of God,’ Kilimanjaro and the bustling city of arusha, the gateway to Tanzania

Northern Tanzania

The splendid Lake Manyara dwells within Manyara National Park and occupies a massive 200 sq kms area within the 300 sq kms game reserve when water levels are high. Located beneath the cliffs of the Manyara Escarpment, on the edge of the Rift Valley, Lake Manyara National Park offers varied ecosystems, stunning bird life, and breathtaking views. Located en route to Ngorongoro Crater and the Serengeti, Lake Manyara National Park is a beautiful excursion in its own right. The ground water forests, bush plains, baobab strewn cliffs and algae-streaked hot springs offer incredible ecological variety in a small area, rich in wildlife and incredible numbers of birds.

The alkaline soda of Lake Manyara houses an incredible array of bird life that thrives on its brackish waters. Pink flamingo stoop and graze in thousands in the lake; yellow-billed storks and herons are also spotted in Manyara. Even reluctant bird-watchers will find something to watch and marvel at within the national park.

Lake Manyara’s famous tree-climbing lions are another reason to visit this park. The only kind of their species in the world, they make the ancient mahogany and elegant acacias their home during the rainy season, and are a well-known but rather rare feature of the northern park. Apart from lions, the national park is also home to the largest concentration of baboons anywhere in the world

—a fact that makes for interesting game viewing of large families of the primates. More than 400 species have been recorded and even a first time visitor to Africa can expect to observe at least 100 of these in a day. It is best to visit Manyara during the dry season (July – October) for large mammals and during the wet season (November – June) for

bird watching, the waterfalls and canoeing.

Manyara is generally utilized as a night halt destination en route to the Serengeti. Visitors can engage in game drives, night game drives, canoeing (when water levels are high), cultural tours, mountain bike tours, abseiling and forest walks on the escarpment outside the park. n

LAKe MANYARA



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It would be unfair to classify Serengeti as a game park; rather it is an ecosystem in itself, which forms a part of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area (NCA). All human activities and access within the NCA is governed and closely administered by the Ngorongoro Conservation Area Authority (NCAA). The Serengeti boasts of being home to over 70 large mammals and over 500 avifauna species making it the most spectacular sight for any wildlife enthusiast.

Serengeti is Tanzania’s most famous national park and also the largest, at 14,763 sq kms of protected area that bordering Kenya’s Masai Mara Game Park which is approximately 10% of the size of the Serengeti. Serengeti’s far flung plains of endless grass, dotted with the twisted shadows of acacia trees, gives it the quintessential image of a wild and untarnished Africa. The large stone kopjes (a rocky granite outcrop that emerges from the volcanic layers of the plain) are home to rich ecosystems, and the sheer magnitude and scale of life that the plains support is

staggering.The annual wildebeest migration through Serengeti and Masai Mara attracts visitors from around the world, to witness the largest mass movement of land mammals on the planet. More than a million animals migrate to fresh pasture to the north, then the south, after the biannual rains. The entire ecosystem thrives from the annual migration, from the lions and birds of prey that gorge themselves on the weak and faltering to the gamut of hungry crocodiles that lie in patient wait at each river crossing for their annual feed.

But it is not merely the wildebeest who use the Serengeti as a migratory pathway. The adjacent reserves of Maswa and Ikorongo, the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, and the Masai Mara Game Reserve in Kenya all allow the animals and birds of the area a free range of movement to follow their seasonal migrations. Indeed, in the wake of the wildebeest migration, many of the less attention-grabbing features of the Serengeti are often overlooked. The park has

varied zones in which each ecosystem is subtly different. Seronera in the centre of the park is the most popular and most easily visited area. The Grumeti River in the Western Corridor is the location for the dramatic river crossing during the wildebeest migration. Maswa Game Reserve to the south offers a remote part of the park rewarding in its game-viewing and privacy, and Lobo near the Kenyan border offers a change to see plentiful game during the dry season. Hot-air ballooning over the Serengeti plains has become a safari rite-of-passage for travel enthusiasts. The flights depart at dawn over the plains and take passengers close over the awakening herds of wildebeest and zebra, gazelle and giraffe. The extra altitude allows guests to witness striking stretches of plains punctuated only by kopjes. Activities include – Hot Air Ballooning, Bush Meals, etc. Visitors can either drive down to the Serengeti or use the services of Private Chartered flights which land at the Seronera Air Strip. n

SeReNGeTI: The endless Plains

The ANNUAL WILDeBeeST MIGRATIONThe endless plains of East Africa are the setting for the world’s greatest wildlife spectacle - the 1.5 million animal ungulate (wildebeest) migration from the vast Serengeti plains to the champagne colored hills of Kenya’s Masai Mara over 1.4 million wildebeest and 200,000 zebra and gazelle, relentlessly tracked by Africa’s great predators, migrate in a clockwise fashion over 1,800 miles each year in search of rain ripened grass. There is no real beginning or end to a wildebeest’s journey. Its life is an endless pilgrimage, a constant search for food and water. The only beginning is at the moment of birth. An estimated 400,000 wildebeest calves are born during a six week period early each year - usually between late January and mid-March.

The Migration is a round the year spectacle viewable at different locations depending on the time of the year, through this period the animals move into the Masai Mara for a short while before returning to the Serengeti to continue their continuous journey. Migratory routes and approximate location of animals, as studied by experts through the past few years, are available for reference. Special Tented Safari’s are also arranged to follow the Migratory Route and witness this spectacle. n

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At a staggering height of 5,985 meters, Mount Kilimanjaro is the highest peak in Africa and also the tallest free standing mountain in the world. Located in North Eastern region, Tanzania’s Mount Kilimanjaro rises in splendid isolation from the surrounding coastal scrubland elevation of 900 meters and towers above the African continent, with its tallest summit - Uhuru Peak rising to a massive altitude of 19,341 ft above the mean sea level. Touted to be the world’s most accessible high summits, Kilimanjaro is a beacon for visitors from around the globe.

During the ascent climbers can experience the flora and fauna distinct to each of Kilimanjaro volcanic cones - Kibo 5,895 metres (19,341 ft); Mawenzi 5,149 meters (16,893 ft); and Shira 3,962 meters (13,000 ft). Uhuru Peak is the highest summit on Kibo’s crater rim. The ascent

can be summed up to be a ‘virtual climatic world tour’ for tourists; as climatic conditions; wildlife and vegetation range from the tropics to the Arctic. The Kilimanjaro National Park boundary begins at Kilimanjaro’s 2700 meters contour housing the elusive elephant, leopard, buffalo, the endangered Abbot’s duiker along with other small antelope and primates. Two of its three peaks are extinct but the third – Kibo is dormant and is likely to erupt again, but no such activity has been recorded for the past 200 years.

Trekkers can access the tallest summit Mount Kilimanjaro through six different routes - Marangu, Rongai, Lemosho, Shira, Umbwe and Machame; each route has varying endurance and difficulty level. Tourists can engage in day or overnight hikes on the Shira plateau, enjoy trout fishing or nature trails on the lower reaches or even visit the Chala

Crater Lake on the mountain’s south eastern slopes. The mountain is an hour’s drive from Kilimanjaro Airport and 128 kms away from Arusha. The ideal time to visit this place is between the months of December to February when the weather is clear and warmer and also from July – September when it is dry and cold. Several hotels, huts and campsites are available for accommodation in Marangu village and Moshi town located outside Kilimanjaro National Park. n

MOUNT KILIMANJARO: The Mountain of God



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It is the world’s largest intact crater, unrivalled in the richness and diversity of its animal and plant life. The Ngorongoro Crater has been deemed as World Heritage Site and awarded the International Biosphere Reserve status. Offering a breathtaking panoramic view, the crater is around 2000 feet deep and covers an area of about 100 sq miles. It is home to around 25,000 animals. Often called as Africa’s Eden a visit to the crater is a thorough treat for visitors coming to Tanzania and is a truly exotic attraction. Within the crater rim, large herds of zebra and wildebeest graze freely while lions laze in the sun. At dawn, the endangered black rhino returns to the thick cover of the crater forests after grazing on dew-laden grass in the morning mist. Outside the crater’s ridge, the Masaai herd their cattle and goats over green pastures through the highland slopes, living alongside the wildlife as they have for centuries. The Ngorongoro Crater is now a World Heritage Site and appears in the first 15 Wonders of

the World. Activities include visit to Masai Boma’s (Villages), Bush Meals, etc

The Ngorongoro Conservation Area (NCA) includes the eponymous famous crater, Olduvai Gorge, and huge expanses of highland plains, scrub bush, and forests that cover approximately 8,300 square kms area. A protected area, only indigenous tribes such as the Masaai are allowed to live within its borders. Lake Ndutu and Masek, both alkaline soda lakes are home to rich game populations. A series of peaks and volcanos make the Conservation Area a unique and beautiful landscape of flora and

fauna. The crater itself, actually a type of collapsed volcano called a caldera and is the main attraction. Accommodation is located on crater’s ridges and a descent down the crater rim, passing through lush rain forest and thick vegetation, the flora opens to grassy plains throughout the crater floor. The game viewing is truly incredible here; the topography and views of the surrounding Crater Highlands are spectacular and unique.

Ngorongoro is home to Olduvai Gorge, where the hominoid remains of a 1.8 million year old skeleton of Australopithecus

boisei, one of the distinct links of the human evolutionary chain were discovered. The Ngorongoro Crater and Ngorongoro Conservation Area are some of the most captivating attractions of Tanzania, steeped in history and teeming with wildlife. Besides vehicle safaris to Ngorongoro Crater, Olduvai Gorge, and surrounding attractions, hiking treks through the Ngorongoro Conservation Area are becoming increasingly popular options. Tourists / Visitors can drive down to the Ngorongoro Crater which is approximately 3.5 hours away from Arusha Town. n

Getting AroundBy RoadArusha to Manyara – 2.5 to 3 hoursArusha to Serengeti – 8 hoursArusha to Ngorongoro – 3.5 hoursManyara to Serengeti – 3.5 hoursManyara to Ngorongoro – 2.5 hoursManyara to Arusha – 2.5 to 3 hoursNgorongoro to Manyara – 2.5 hoursNgorongoro to Serengeti – 3.5 hoursNgorongoro to Arusha – 3.5 hoursSerengeti to Arusha – 8 hoursSerengeti to Manyara – 3.5 hoursSerengeti to Ngorongoro – 3.5 hours

1 hr flight from Arusha to Seronera Air Strip in the Serengeti.

NGORONGORO CRATeR: A Natural Wonder of the World


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Tanzania’s largest city; economic hub Dar es Salaam is located

on a quiet bay off the Indian Ocean coast and is often considered to be the traveller’s gateway into the country. Unlike the Northern part, this region is characterised by lesser known National Parks and game reserves. Located in South Eastern Tanzania the Selous Game Reserve is Africa’s largest protected wildlife reserve and covers more than 5 % of Tanzania’s total area. Due to its remote location, and accessibility restricted to small aircraft, Selous Game Reserve has remained one of the untouched gems of Tanzania. The Southern region is also known for the Mikumi National Park located between the Uluguru Mountains and the Lumango Range. It is bordered to the South with the Selous Game Reserve, the two areas forming a unique ecosystem.

DAR es SALAM:The haven of PeaceTanzania’s commercial capital, Dar es Salaam has come to prominence due to its growth and development in the East African region and its busy harbour, which is the largest sea port in East Africa. Dar es Salaam is also the sports centre of Tanzania. Government offices are primarily located in Dar es Salaam, along with diplomatic missions and non-governmental organizations.

The city scape is dotted with restaurants, shops, office and government buildings. In the early 20th century the city was under German occupation and was the centre of colonial administration. It served as the ‘point of contact’ between the agricultural mainland and

commerce in the Indian Ocean and the Swahili coast. The remnants of colonial presence, both German and British, are visible in the landmarks and architecture around the city. The National Museum, the Village

Museum, and many colourful markets around the city are worth a visit. The city also has numerous historical landmarks such as St Joseph’s Cathedral, the White Father’s Mission House, Botanical Gardens and the old State House .

Bongoyo Island Marine Reserve, located seven kms north of the city offers good snorkeling and diving sites for enthusiasts. The reserve

boasts of scenic beaches, secluded islands and many varieties of marine species. Pemba and Mafia Island are more rich in coral and marine life and great for snorkeling. The growth of expatriates in Tanzania has provided an impetus to tourism and has led to the rapid growth of good quality food and accommodation options in Dar es Salaam. n

relatively unexplored by tourists, the southern region is captivating with massive expanses of diverse flora and fauna. Dar es salaam, the commercial hub is the gateway for the region

Southern Tanzania



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Mikumi National Park is a tourism hotspot and the nearest wildlife getaway for visitors from Da es Salaam. Located between the Uluguru Mountains and Lumango range, Mikumi is the fourth largest park in Tanzania and occupies 3230 sq kms area. The Park has a wide variety of wildlife which is easy to spot and well acclimatised to game viewing. Its proximity to Dar es Salaam makes it a popular option for weekend visitors from the city, or for business visitors who don’t have time for an extended safari itinerary.

Most visitors come to Mikumi National Park looking to spot Africa’s ‘Big Five’ namely cheetah, lion, elephant, buffalo, and rhino. The Park borders the Selous Game Reserve and Udzungwa National Park, and the three locations make a varied and pleasant safari circuit. The open horizon and abundant wildlife of the Mkata floodplain, the centre of Mikumi draws frequent comparisons with the Serengeti plains.

The road crossing the park divides it into two areas with partially distinct environments. The area North-West is characterised by the alluvial plain of the river basin Mkata. The

vegetation here consists of savannah dotted with acacia, baobab and some rare palm. In this area, at the furthest from the road, there are spectacular rock formations of the mountains Rubeho and Uluguru. The South East part is less rich in wildlife, and not accessible. Criss crossed by a good circuit of game-viewing roads, Mkata floodplain is most reliable for sighting the powerful eland along with the equally impressive greater kudu and sable antelope roaming the foothills of the mountains rising at the park’s borders. Mikumi can be accessed throughout the year.

Visitors can either choose to stay in the Mikumi Park itself or stay in nearby Morogoro – a small town. Mikumi can also visited for a day visit from Dar-Es-Salaam but animal spotting may be a question in such an excursion. Visitors can drive to Mikumi (4 hours) from Dar-Es-Salaam. n

MIKUMI NATIONAL PARK

SeLOUS GAMe ReSeRVeLocated in South Eastern region in a remote and lesser known part of Tanzania is Selous Game Reserve; Africa’s largest protected wildlife reserve covering more than five per cent of Tanzania’s total area. The rivers, hills, and plains are home to roaming elephant herds, native wild dogs, and some of the last black rhino left in the region. Due to its remote location and its accessibility (only by small aircraft or a five-hour drive from Dar es Salaam). Selous Game Reserve has remained one of the untouched gems of Tanzania’s national parks and game reserves. It gives visitors an opportunity to experience a wild and expansive Africa far from paved roads and curio shops. Tourists flock to the North of the reserve, while large portions of the South are still reserved for hunting.

The Rufigi River Delta is a highlight of the game reserve as it connects the Ruaha River with the Rufigi River which flows into the Indian Ocean, not far from the park boundaries. The Rufigi River is the largest water catchment locations in the region, and as such, is home to a plethora of varied water and bird life. Along its shores, hippos sleep languidly in the mud and sun themselves, mouths wide open, as the river passes by. Crocodiles are also common along the Rufigi’s riverbanks. Stiggler’s Gorge, where the Great Ruaha River meets the Rufiji River, is a breathtaking example of the diversity and spectacular scenery along the game reserve’s waterways.

The Selous is unique among Tanzania’s more renowned preserved areas because it is a game reserve, not a national park, and hence a larger range of activities are permitted. Boating safaris are becoming a popular alternative to vehicle-based trips and offer visitors a chance to see the diverse life along the Rufigi River up close in all its splendour. Hiking safaris and fly camping are also ideal ways to explore the country and add a bit of adventure to your African experience. n

Getting around Dar Es Salaam Dar-Es-Salaam to Mikumi – 4 hours driveDar-Es-Salaam to Selous – 5 hour drive

Inter City Connections: Arusha to Dar-Es-Salaam 1.15min domestic flight Arusha to Zanzibar 1.15 min domestic flight Dar-Es-Salaam to Zanzibar by flight 15 min Dar-Es-Salaam to Zanzibar by Catamaran 1 hour 30 min

Arusha to Dar-Es-Salaam by road 12 hours

13special feaTure



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ZANZIBAR has a head start in the minds of most intrepid travelers. The tropical climate, idyllic beaches and ancient trading towns bustling with a population of mixed ethnic background are all

ingredients of a fascinating destination. Stone Town - with its wealth of historical buildings and traditional

Swahili culture, is Zanzibar’s key, unique attraction. Apart from exploring the nooks, crannies and curio shops of old Stone Town, one can take a quick look at the local market, eateries and also go hunting for the legendary Freddie Mercury’s house. The myriad populace of this region, typically a mix of Muslim, Indian and Catholic communities gives Zanzibar an unlikely feel, which is quite different from its mainland counterpart. The most commonly practised religion in Zanzibar is Islam. Some of the important architectural features in Stone Town are the Livingstone House, The old dispensary of Zanzibar, the Guliani Bridge, Ngome Kongwe (The Old fort of Zanzibar) and the House of Wonders. Zanzibar is the birthplace of Swahili, a language forged from global dialects, upon which trade routes opened and a Sultan’s empire prospered.

Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site has grown out of Zanzibar’s historical trades. The old-fashioned Stone Town, is present day testimony to the remains of the by gone colonial era and also the predominance of Islam. The ‘Slave Monument’ adjoining The Anglican Cathedral Church of Christ is a site of significant importance and the monument itself is an evidence of the horrors suffered by the slaves during the ‘slave trade’ era. The Beit El Ajaib - The House of Wonders is another quintessential location to visit while in Zanzibar, touted to be the first building in Zanzibar, it houses an array of interesting artifacts

Zanzibar: Crowning Glory of Indian Ocean



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and stories about its inception.Unguja, the major island of Zanzibar and

Pemba (the small one), offer rich marine environment characterized by coral reefs suitable for snorkeling and diving. Unguja has been at the forefront of Indian Ocean history for over a thousand years and has witnessed explorers, sultans, slave traders and merchants choose Zanzibar as their strategic base.

Pemba was formerly known as Al Khudra ‘the

green island’ by the Arabic mariners in reverence to the lush greenery they witnessed on reaching the island; after their journey through the arid coastline in the south. Pemba rises from the Indian Ocean on its own granite pedestal, a continental landmass in itself complete with scenic hills tumbling through cove of plantations to the pristine white beaches. The reefs and channels here make for East Africa’s finest diving and highly rated game fishing.

Zanzibar also offers exclusive diving experience amongst the fish fertile reef, historic shipwrecks and abundant lagoons, which may also reveal dolphin, turtle and seasonal pods of whale as they follow the monsoon currents. While fishing enthusiasts can try their hand at ‘tag and release’ big game fishing, using sophisticated equipment; fisherman who crave exotic fish can try their luck with the locals in an ngalawa, a traditional outrigger.

Other sites and attractions, which are often included in island tours and excursions of Zanzibar, include the ruins of Maruhubi Palace, the Mtoni Slave Chambers, the ruins of Mtoni Palace, Kidichi and Kizimbani Persian Baths and the Mangapwani Slave Cave.

Travelers can also engage in a number of circuit extensions around Zanzibar – North Circuit Safari, Zanzibar Beach Holiday and Stone Town Cultural Experience, Mainland Safari and Zanzibar Stone Town Cultural Experience and Zanzibar Beach Holiday and Southern Circuit.

It is however for spices that Zanzibar is best

known and named. The Spice island produces Ylang Ylang spice, Queen of The Night (tropical American climbing cactus), hibiscus and jasmine, cloves and cardamom and fruits like litchi, mango, jack fruit and coconut; providing all the quintessential elements for Zanzibar’s spice dusted cuisine.

Another not be missed attraction is Forodhani, the popular waterfront in the heart of Zanzibar town. It is destination which excites the taste buds. Every evening, it is filled with people wishing to cool down from the heat of the day with assorted cold drinks and devouring a collection of delicacies and grilled foods. n

This visually stunning island has so much more to offer than just the beautiful beaches. There are a variety of excursions showcasing the myriad facets of this fascinating destination

Zanzibar excursions

JOZANI FOReST TOUR – (half day)

SAFARI BLUe (Full Day)

The SPICe TOUR – (3 ½ hours)SNORKeLING

AROUND ZANZIBAR

STONe TOWN TOUR – (3 ½ hours)

TANTALIZING TANZANIA

Africa’s Most Alluring Destination

Adventure ToursWildlife Safaris | Mountain Climbing | Excellent Bird Watching |Walking Safaris

Beach Holiday’s in Exotic ZanzibarBeach Lounging | Scuba Diving |Fishing |Stay in a Private Island

For Special Offers & More Details Contact:

Akqua Tourism & Destinations Pvt Ltd

B - 102, 1st Floor, Twin Arcade, Military Road, Marol,

Andheri (E), Mumbai - 400 059, Maharashtra, India.

(T):+91 22 40155361 to 368

(E): [email protected]

,For Details Visit

www.akquadestinations.com/wintrip.html

ANSWER A SIMPLE QUIZ FILL UP A SLOGAN

TM

WINA Free Tour

TANTALIZING TANZANIA

Africa’s Most Alluring Destination

Adventure ToursWildlife Safaris | Mountain Climbing | Excellent Bird Watching |Walking Safaris

Beach Holiday’s in Exotic ZanzibarBeach Lounging | Scuba Diving |Fishing |Stay in a Private Island

For Special Offers & More Details Contact:

Akqua Tourism & Destinations Pvt Ltd

B - 102, 1st Floor, Twin Arcade, Military Road, Marol,

Andheri (E), Mumbai - 400 059, Maharashtra, India.

(T):+91 22 40155361 to 368

(E): [email protected]

,For Details Visit

www.akquadestinations.com/wintrip.html

ANSWER A SIMPLE QUIZ FILL UP A SLOGAN

TM

WINA Free Tour

TravelBiz Monitor | June 16-30, 2011 | Special Feature on Tanzania | 15

16|Special Feature on Tanzania | TravelBiz Monitor | June 16-30, 2011

Documents

page no. 1 Tanzania€¦ · Supplement R.n.I. no. mAHenG/2007/22231 Reg. no. mH/mR/South-262/2010-12 page no. 1 Tanzania THE LAND OF KILIMANJARO, ZANZIBAR & THE SERENGETI June 16