Maasai Magic, Safari and Zanzibar

With commanding views of magnificent Mount Kilimanjaro, Arusha is nestled in the shadow of Mount Meru, and an ideal launchpad to reach the country’s most renowned game reserves. Looming over Arusha, the dramatic 4556 meters peak of Mount Meru is a great alternative to Mount Kilimanjaro for fit hikers as it is less crowded and less likely to engender altitude sickness.

Your unspoilt safari haven! Considered off-the-beaten path for many with few human visitors, West Kilimanjaro is a concession area to the west of Mount Kilimanjaro and South of the Amboseli National Park in Kenya. The drive to West Kilimanjaro is exciting as you are treated to views of the foothills of the majestic Kilimanjaro and occasionally that of its snow-capped peaks. Discover the incredible open and empty stretches of savannah dotted with acacia woodland and wild bush. As the land is leased by the local Maasai community, you can also gain an insight into their culture. Witness plenty of wildlife, especially elephants.

Experience authentic Maasai culture in and around Africa Amini Maasai Lodge. If you travel with children, they can start the day with a sunrise ride on the back of a donkey. Traversing across the serene African savannah, take in vistas of Mount Kilimanjaro, and drop by a Maasai hamlet en route. Kids are likely to love this excursion. Later in the day, accompany a Maasai shaman to explore the surrounding landscape. Learn to forage for medicinal herbs and plants from among the native flora. You will have an opportunity to interact with Ngabobo locals over cups of herb-infused tea, and understand natural healing remedies. Finally, join in for traditional spear-throwing competitions in the African bush, with wooden targets set on acacia trees. Now a casual sport within the Maasai warriors, get a glimpse of this deep-rooted practice that served as training to hunt lions in the past. (One activity per day included in every booking package, additional experiences can be booked extra)

Nestled at the base of the Great Rift Valley escarpment, Lake Manyara National Park is stunningly beautiful. You might spot a famous tree-climbing lion stretched on the branches of a flat-topped acacia tree, whilst lake views are made lovelier with a 400-strong bird species, including pelicans. Journey further to the Ngorongoro Crater, which has one of the highest wildlife densities on earth with antelopes, wildebeest, zebra and the Big Five. One of the natural wonders of the world, the wildlife of Ngorongoro co-exists peacefully with the local Maasai people and their cattle. Surrounding foothills offer lush green landscapes dotted with small villages and picturesque coffee and tea plantations that you can explore by bicycle or on foot.

The Central Serengeti is the heart of the sprawling Serengeti National Park in Tanzania, the world’s best-known wildlife sanctuary. A prime wildlife viewing spot, this area is packed with predators such as lions, cheetahs, and leopards. The Seronera River carves out a verdant valley here, making it one of the richest ecosystems in the Serengeti. See the rocky granite outcrops known as kopjes, a favorite hideout of the Big Cats. At Moru Kopjes, you might chance upon the last of the elusive black rhinos in their natural habitat. The ancient rock art paintings of Gong Rock and Lake Magadi with its pink flamingos are nearby. Don’t miss the Retina Hippo Pool located at the confluence of two rivers. The Serengeti is best known for the unique annual spectacle known as the Great Migration, where vast numbers of wildebeest, zebras and gazelles travel across the park in a pattern. In April and November, the Central Serengeti turns into a hotspot of wildebeest sightings. Hot air balloon safaris are an excellent way to view wildlife here.

Head to the spice islands! The lure of Zanzibar is legendary and worthy. From exotic Stone Town, a city with a fascinating history that invites you to explore its narrow streets, to palm-fringed beaches and pristine coral reefs, Zanzibar is a complete change of pace from mainland Tanzania. Enjoy wonderfully relaxing days at the fine white sandy beaches, enjoy the book you never got around to read, take in the views of the spectacular turquoise sea, take long walks along the beach, swim with dolphins or discover the magnificent marine life and striking coral formations.