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A country with incredible topography, from pristine ocean to Africa’s highest peak. Kilimanjaro. Tanzania is a wilderness and wildlife extravaganza. This vast and sparsely-populated country hosts some of the greatest wildlife experiences on earth.
Experience some of the best National parks and game viewing areas in Africa. Starting with Tarangire NP to Ngorongoro Crater Conservation area & Lake Manyara NP to the famous plains of the Serengeti. Flying between camps and National Parks by way of Cessna Caravan you will be flying low over the plains watching the animals move across the landscape. Not only does this cut down days sitting in vehicles crossing sometimes very rough roads it maximise’s time on Safari and gives you another perspective capturing the vastness these area’s span.
Staying in stunning luxury camps built by award winning Sanctuary Retreats you will find yourself in private, wildlife abundant area’s of the parks. This style of Wildlife Safari is best suite to the more discerning client who does not want to compromise on quality.
Tanzania is one of the best places in Africa to go on Safari, with less tourists than it’s northern neighbour, Kenya, and unique experiences such as Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania ticks all the boxes.
All camps are located in an exclusive pockets of the parks away from the tourist bus’s for complete privacy offering a variety of activities including morning and evening game drives, walking safari’s and night drives, sundowners, bush dinners and picnics.
Sanctuary Retreats Philanthropy Projects at each permanent camp offer the opportunity to see another side of life here in Africa. Working closely with local villages Sanctuary Retreats are running projects all over Africa, from bicycle donation imports and workshops, bee keeping, farming and school programs.
7 nights, 8 day luxury wildlife safari Plus 3 nights in Stone Town on Zanzibar Island: From Beach to Bush, experience some of the best National parks and game viewing areas in Tanzania. Flying between camps Tarangire NP, Ngorongoro Crater, Lake Manyara NP, across the famous plains of the Serengeti dusting off on Zanzibar Island.
After your arrival at Kilimanjaro international airport you will be met by your Sanctuary Retreats representative and guide before transferring to Arusha Coffee Lodge approximately 1hr drive away.
0930hrs– Depart Zanzibar on a light aircraft to Tarangire –Kuro Via Arusha
1320hrs –Arrive Tarangire and proceed to Swala camp for lunch and afternoon game drives in Tarangire park.
Upon arrival you will be met by your guide and transferred to Sanctuary Swala in our customised open safari vehicle. Driving time is approximately 30 minutes with game viewing en route. Each of the twelve tents at Sanctuary Swala is shaded by tall acacia trees and ancient baobabs within sight of the well-frequented waterhole. The canvas pavilions at Sanctuary Swala are unashamedly luxurious but still close enough to nature to permit an exciting night under canvas. In the afternoon there is time to relax before embarking on your first game drive.
Awake to the sounds of the bush as a steaming hot cup of tea or coffee is served on your tent’s deck. This morning you may like to sleep in and enjoy your surrounds, or explore the park on an early morning game drive before returning to camp for a refreshing drink and lunch. This afternoon you have time to take a refreshing swim in the pool or relax on your private deck with a cool drink and gaze out to the waterhole and watch as the game lazily congregates in the shade to escape the heat.
As the afternoon progresses you may like to explore the Tarangire on an afternoon game drive. The beauty of Tarangire unfolds as you venture out into the baobab scattered landscape. During the dry season the concentration of wildlife in the Tarangire is second only to the Serengeti ecosystem. Return to camp to freshen up before meeting around the camp fire for a pre-dinner drink as you discuss the day’s adventures.
Huge herds of Elephant, Greater Kudu, Impala, Waterbuck and Zebra are all easily spotted. While Leopards are hard to find amongst the tall tree canopy they are regularly seen in the area as well as Lions. Due to the camp’s secluded location you are unlikely to see many vehicles as you venture out into the national park.
0830hrs –Depart Tarangire on a light aircraft to Southern Serengeti
Early this morning you will depart Tarangire on a light aircraft 1.5hour flight to Southern Serengeti.Upon arrival you will be met by your guide and transferred to camp in our customised open safari vehicle. With game viewing en route. In the afternoon there is time to relax before embarking on your first game drive.
Kichakani is semi permanent luxury mobile camp that moves with the seasons following the Great Migration; so no matter what time of year you visit you are guaranteed a wildlife spectacular.
Today you may choose to partake in a full day game drive into the heart of the Serengeti, or along the Mara River depending on the season, with a picnic lunch and beverages of your choice or remain close to camp with morning and afternoon game drives. The area around Sanctuary Camp Kichakani is regularly surrounded by the Great Migration. Mainly consisting of Wildebeast and Zebra you will find many other animals moving with them including Elephant, Giraffe and of course Lions.
Enjoy an morning wake up by your softly spoken tent attendant carrying a tray of hot filtered coffee, tea or beverage of your choice as planned the night before. Take breakfast in the privacy of your luxurious tent at the dining area or on the go.
Head out on a morning or full day game drive as you wish.
Sanctuary Kichakani Serengeti Camp’s three set locations throughout the year are based on the natural migration path offering wildlife viewing from open plains, sweeping grasslands and rocky kopjes. The stars of this seasonal path are wildebeest, zebra, Thomson’s gazelles, and the predators that this migratory journey attracts. The Serengeti is known for having the Big Five; cheetahs are a highlight, along with wild dog, giraffe, waterbuck and impala.
1000hrs –Depart Serengeti on a light aircraft to Manyara
1150hrs –Arrive Manyara and
After breakfast, transfer to the airstrip for your light aircraft flight to Manyara. Our Sanctuary Retreats guide will meet you at the airstrip and proceed to Manyara National Park for a half day game viewing. If you are lucky you may spot the parks famous tree climbing Lions. Arrive at Sanctuary Ngorongoro Crater Camp for sundowners and dinner after climbing the escarpment of the Great Rift Valley. This camp is located in Tanzania’s Ngorongoro Conservation area, on the crater rim. There are 10 luxury safari tents. Each custom-made walk in tent is spacious and complete with en-suite bathroom, flush toilet, shower and hot water available throughout the day. Each tent provides a room safe, hairdryer and mosquito nets. There are three main area tents: a dining tent, lounge, and bar and lounge tent.
The climate at 2200 meters is a lot cooler on the Crater rim up than on the plains. Prepare for an early start as the best game viewing and the least amount of crowds are at first light. The Crater access road that drops you 600m down to the Crater floor opens at 6am.
Request a 5:30am hearty breakfast, hot water bottles and blankets for the morning Game drive. Enjoy game viewing with a spectacular backdrop of the crater wall at every turn. This great caldera is home to around 30,000 animals with a high concentration of predators. Zebra and Wildebeast account for almost half the animals with plenty of Gazelle, Cape Buffalo, Hartebeest, Warthog and big bull Elephants. On the lake in the middle of the crater, you may see thousands of flamingos fluttering and shimmering like a pink heat haze. Return to camp this afternoon with time for a hot shower before pre dinner drinks by the camp fire as you discuss the day’s adventures.
Enjoy a leisurely morning relaxing at camp before transferring to the airstrip for your light aircraft flight from Manyara – Kilimanjaro. Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro a Sanctuary Retreat assistant will meet and assist you with your onward flight or hotel transfer.
1150hrs –Depart Manyara on a light aircraft to Kilimanjaro
1245hrs –Arrive Kilimanjaro airport
Flight time TBC –Depart Kilimanjaro
Flight time TBC –Arrive Zanzibar Island, transfer to Double Tree Hilton in the heart of Stone Town, Enjoy a leisurely afternoon exploring the winding Stone Town alleys and barzars, experience everyday life, the Zanzibari way. By night Soak up the sights, sounds and heady aromas of the lively Forodhani Night Market, where you can sample a variety of local specialties ranging from freshly grilled seafood kebabs and Zanzibar pizzas to sugar cane juices with ginger and gyro.
10:00 After breakfast half day walking tour around Stone Town, making it easy to immerse yourself in the charm and beauty of the city. Visit the Old Fort – a landmark fortification built in late 17th century by the Omanis to defend the island from the Portuguese. Learn about the about the history of the Zanzibari royal family in the Sultan’s Palace or admire the House of Wonders. Enjoy the afternoon & evening at your own leisure.
A full day of leisure. We recommend seeing the hotel lobby desk to visit the Rock Resturant for a scenic lunch ( 1 hour taxi ). A world-famous restaurant, known not only for its extraordinary location, but also its fabulous food inspired by the natural resources, a twist of Zanzibar and Italian. Visit Jozani Forest and the Red Colobus Monkey colony and taking a swim at the beautiful Paje Beach.
Check out at 10:00 After breakfast. Move at your own pace today depending on your flight departure time.
If you have an afternoon flight, you can store your luggage at the hotel until your ready to transfer back to the airport.
Sanctuary Swala is located in a secluded area of Tarangire National Park, one of the most exciting and least visited parks in the country.
In the heart of Maasai country and a remote corner of the Tarangire, in total seclusion amongst giant acacia trees and looking out beyond the flat savannah, Sanctuary Swala offers a very exclusive safari experience. The picturesque landscape is filled with ancient baobab trees, ambling elephants and birds in flight. Built to the highest eco-friendly standards, this camp has a particularly low-carbon footprint.
The Park’s name originates from the Tarangire River that crosses through the park. The landscape and vegetation are incredibly diverse and the hilly landscape is dotted with many Baobab trees, high grasses and dense bush. Huge herds of up to 300 elephants roam the national park while migratory wildebeest, zebra, impala, buffalo and eland crowd the lagoon and waterholes. The Tarangire is also home to the more unusual species of fringe-eared Oryx and peculiar long-necked gerenuk.
Sanctuary Ngorongoro Crater Camp is located in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area – situated in the Ngorongoro Crater rim valley, close to the access road into the crater, giving guests unrivaled access to the crater floor.
Ngorongoro is home to a large assortment of animals including zebra, buffalo, warthog, wildebeest, hippo and elephants; and an amazing population of predators – lions, hyenas, jackals, cheetahs and the elusive leopard.
The Ngorongoro Conservation Area is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located 180 km west of Arusha in the Crater Highlands area of Tanzania. The main feature of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area is the Ngorongoro Crater, the world’s largest inactive, intact, and unfilled volcanic caldera. The crater, which formed when a large volcano ex-ploded and collapsed on itself two to three million years ago, is 610 metres deep and its floor covers 260 square kilometres. A large diversity of animals reside in the Crater, including an extraordinary population of predators, such as lions, hyenas, jackals, cheetahs and the elusive leopard; as well as hippo, wildebeest, warthog, zebra, eland, buffalo, gazelles and waterbuck.
In December 2017 Sanctuary Retreats launched the exclusive new Sanctuary Kichakani Serengeti Camp in Tanzania.
This extraordinary new escape, based in three set locations across the Serengeti, invites guests to intimately experience the movement of a million-plus wildebeest and zebra as they follow the fresh grasses across the Serengeti plains during the annual migration cycle.
The beautiful Serengeti National Park is renowned for the famous annual wildebeest migration, with over one and a half million wildebeest and 250,000 zebra. The national park is a UNESCO World Heritage site and covers around 5,700 square miles of grassland plains, savannah as well as forest and woodlands. The park contains a variety of wild-life, including the “Big Five.” There are also many cheetah to be seen, Thomson’s and Grant’s gazelle, hyena, impala and even the elusive African wild dog.
DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Zanzibar – Stone Town boasts a wonderful location in the very heart of Stone Town, making it easy to immerse yourself in the charm and beauty of the city. Visit the Old Fort – a landmark fortification built in late 17th century by the Omanis to defend the island from the Portuguese. Learn about the about the history of the Zanzibari royal family in the Sultan’s Palace or admire the House of Wonders; the largest and tallest building in Stone Town, set on the old town’s seafront. Add some contemporary history to your trip with a visit to Freddy Mercury’s home.
Soak up the sights, sounds and heady aromas of the lively Forodhani Night Market, where you can sample a variety of local specialties ranging from freshly grilled seafood kebabs and Zanzibar pizzas to sugar cane juices with ginger and gyro. Take a fascinating Spice Tour or a Swahili Cultural Tour and explore the winding Stone Town alleys to experience everyday life, the Zanzibari way. On the way back to the hotel, be sure to pick up a few treasures like Tinga Tinga artwork, some rose water and perhaps a few words of Swahili.
ACTIVITIES IN TANZANIA
GAME DRIVES
Swala Camp – Game drives are a daily delight for guests seeking to explore Tarangire National Park, where East Africa’s largest population of elephants roam freely and a rare white giraffe calls home. Abandoned termite mounds transform into dwarf mongoose sanctuaries, while the surrounding savannah is a natural playground for majestic lion prides and meandering elephant herds. With very few visitors to the park, you’ll have the unique experience of witnessing the wildlife without the crowds from one of our customised open safari vehicles. These offer unobstructed views, perfect for capturing awe-inspiring moments.
Ngorongoro Crater Camp – Get ready for an exciting journey into the heart of Ngorongoro under the wing of our highly trained and knowledgeable guides. Both sunrise and sunset game drives from the comfort of a closed 4×4 game viewing vehicle are available, either in the crater or along the rim. With a vast diversity of animals, including the Big Five , cheetahs and wildebeest, an unforgettable experience is guaranteed. It’s important to note that park regulations stipulate game drives in the Crater are only permitted once a day, however, an optional game drive in the magnificent Lake Manyara National Park can be arranged as an extension of transfers between Sanctuary Ngorongoro Crater Camp and Lake Manyara Airport (dependent on flight times; an additional cost may apply).
Kitchakani Camp – Strategically situated along the annual migratory route, the camp offers unparalleled opportunities to witness one of the greatest natural spectacles on earth. As millions of wildebeest, zebras and Thomson’s gazelles traverse the savannah in search of fresh grazing grounds, they are stalked by some of Africa’s most iconic predators, granting visitors the chance to witness the famed Big Five in action. Cheetahs and wild dogs often provide thrilling highlights, while giraffes, waterbucks and impalas are among the other fascinating creatures that can be spotted along the way.
WALKING SAFARIS
Swala Camp – One of the few camps in Northern Tanzania that offers the unique walking safari experience, Sanctuary Swala invites you to ditch the vehicle and embark on an invigorating stroll through the picturesque wilderness. Accompanied by a knowledgeable guide and an armed ranger, explore the grassland around the camp and encounter majestic game such as zebra, waterbuck, impala, ostrich and elephants, as well as the diverse birdlife. Your guide’s expertise will help you decipher animal behaviour and offer fascinating insights into the ecosystem. A seasonal activity, walking safaris are limited to six people per walk and an additional cost applies.
Swala Camp – Immerse yourself in a unique dining experience with a delicious Swahili meal in the heart of the bush prepared by our skilled chefs. Relax with a cocktail and enjoy the sounds of nature from a secluded clearing. As the sun sets and the sky changes from crimson to black, linger next to the mesmeric flicker of a magnificent log fire and revel in the beauty of the African night. This memorable evening is the perfect way to end a day of thrilling game drives and wildlife sightings. You may opt for a picnic breakfast or lunch during your safari adventure.
Kichakani Camp – As the sun sets on the African savannah there is no better way to end the day than with a classic sundowner. Relax with a refreshing drink or indulge in a signature cocktail as you soak in the stunning sunset hues, surrounded by the sounds of thousands of wildebeest and zebras. A symphony of wildlife sounds accompanies the ritual, creating an unforgettable harmony in the heart of one of Africa’s most iconic landscapes, the Serengeti.
Swala Camp – At Sanctuary Swala, the adventure never stops. Experience the thrill of a night safari in Tarangire, and enjoy a rare opportunity to explore the park after dark from the comfort of our customised safari vehicles. You’ll venture into the night in search of elusive creatures that emerge only after dusk – aided by the specialised lighting on our vehicles that will allow you to spot all sorts of nocturnal animals. You might catch a glimpse of a leopard, or encounter an African wild cat stealthily hunting its prey, as well as lions, hyenas, spotted genet, serval, bat-eared foxes, owls and nightjars. With a maximum of five people per safari, this is a truly exclusive and unforgettable experience. (Additional cost applies).
As the first rays of the sun gently warm the savannah, lift off on an unforgettable aerial adventure that takes in stunning birds’ eye views of Tarangire and its animals. The balloon ride lasts approximately one hour, after which you will be whisked to a nearby location where a delicious breakfast awaits. Savour the aromas of sizzling bacon, juicy sausages and perfectly cooked eggs, served alongside a generous selection of fresh fruits and homemade pastries. Don’t forget to toast to your experience with a beading glass of bubbly.
CULTURAL ACTIVITIES
Ngorongoro Camp – A trip to a Maasai village is a fascinating opportunity to witness the unique culture, customs and practices of one of Tanzania’s most iconic tribes. Expect a warm welcome from the Maasai, who are known for their hospitality, before a tour of their settlements, known as ‘manyattas’. Villages are made up of small, circular mud-and-dung huts, all beautifully decorated with Maasai beadwork and fabrics and enclosed by thorn bushes to keep both predators and livestock out. The tribe’s customs and traditions centre on their cattle, which are considered sacred, with the Maasai renowned for their herding and tracking skills. The visit not only gives tourists an insight into the Maasai culture, with traditional dances and the chance to sample Maasai food, but it also provides a sustainable source of income for the community. Guests can enjoy cultural activities in a nearby Masai village (there is an additional entrance fee of payable to the village).
Half day walking tour around Stone Town, making it easy to immerse yourself in the charm and beauty of the city. Visit the Old Fort – a landmark fortification built in late 17th century by the Omanis to defend the island from the Portuguese. Learn about the about the history of the Zanzibari royal family in the Sultan’s Palace or admire the House of Wonders
Not included but recommended optional activity. In its unique position in / on the waters of the Indian Ocean, The Rock is a charming, exclusive restaurant that in a very short time has become one of the icons of this exotic island. One of Zanzibar’s most popular and sought-after attractions, The Rock opened in July 2010.
Originally a very basic structure having been used as a local fisherman’s post, The Rock is now leased by a local business from the residents of the village of Michamvi.
Located in front of Michamvi Pingwe beach on the south-east coast of the island, it has sometimes been referred to as the floating restaurant. (Or even a tiny floating hotel! But no, it is only a restaurant!)
Restructured, and decorated in a simple, unfussy local island style, the restaurant specialises in seafood and local tastes.
We can accommodate from couples to groups of 20, given enough warning and of course a booking.
An open-air terrace, offering that romantic evening under the African stars by night, skies by day, with panoramic sea-scapes is available for pre- and post-meal drinks.
The restaurant is reached off the beach on foot at low tide or by boat at high tide. Guests can if they wish wade out. The boat service is offered with our compliments.
Bookings required The Rock Restaurant
Breakfast, lunch and dinner are included in your stay – and dining is a mix of silver service, multi course and buffet style depending on the camp. On early morning game drives, indulge in a packed breakfast enjoyed in the middle of the bush and head back to the lodge for a late lunch; or leave after an early breakfast and indulge in a scrumptious packed lunch enjoyed whilst on a full day game drive. For a more intimate experience you can choose to dine on individual tables set in special spots around the camps.
Afternoon tea is served just before the afternoon game activity and offers a selection of cake, tea, coffee and fresh fruit juices. Sundowners and snacks offer the perfect way to end the day as the sun sets over the savannah. Pre-dinner drinks can be enjoyed around the fire before dinner.
At Swala camp you can enjoy breakfast, lunch and dinner over looking the only permanent water hole in the area where all the animals come to quench their thirst. From small antelope like Impala who seek ‘sanctuary’ around the camp to Waterbuck, Buffalo and Lions as well as the resident herd of bull Elephants who don’t like sharing.
Getting to East Africa is relatively easy with two main hubs on the continent being Johannesburg, South Africa or Nairobi in Kenya. From here it will be easy to connect through to your destination, Tanzania.
Safari Starts in Arusha.
Safari Finishes in Zanzibar Island.
With the benefit of digital photography don’t hold back taking pics, you can always delete them. We recommend packing your largest lense, all safari vehicles have padded rest for stable long distance shots.
Maximum of 15kg of luggage per person is allowed for light aircraft flights, including hand luggage and camera equipment. Please ensure that all luggage is soft-sided.
Tanzania’s currency is the shilling. Notes are issued in denominations of 500, 1000, 2000, 5000 and 10000 shillings. Coins are issued in denominations of 10, 20, 50, 100 and 200 shillings, although the first two are seldom used. The local currency you may need during your stay in Tanzania should be obtained at authorised facilities such as banks and foreign exchange bureaus. US Dollars and British Pounds can also be exchanged at the airport on arrival. It is very difficult to exchange the shilling outside of Tanzania so we recommend that you change only as much as you will need. Major credit cards are accepted at most outlets in Tanzania. At some of our Sanctuary Retreats camps in Tanzania, we accept Visa, MasterCard or Amex, as well as cash.
If you enjoyed your stay with us the guidelines below can be used as a reference. Tipping is a very personal matter and it is not included for staff at our lodges and camps.
Tanzania has a tropical climate which is mainly characterised by warm days and cool evenings. December to March are usually the warmest months of the year, while June to August are the coolest. April and May often see intermittent rains, and from September to November the days are warm with short scattered rains falling in November.
GMT + 3 hours.
Tanzania’s official language is Swahili.
Travellers should check for visa requirements pertaining to their citizenship, as entry requirements vary between countries. All travellers, however, must be in possession of a passport with at least six months of validity left beyond the intended departure date from Tanzania.
For more information on Tanzania travel please visit http://tanzaniatourism.go.tz/en
TSA Bans Powerless Devices From Flights
According to recent rules issued by the US Transport Security Administration (TSA), passengers travelling from Europe, the Middle East and Africa to the US must be able to turn on their electronic devices to prove they are genuine, “Powerless devices” – cellphones and computers that cannot be turned on will not be permitted on board the aircraft.
This was followed by an announcement by the UK Department for Transport regarding stepping up some aviation security measures. “In line with the US advice, passengers on some routes into and out of the UK may now also be required to show that electronic devices in their hand luggage are powered up or face not being allowed to bring the device onto the aircraft.” According to Reuters, TSA officials singled out smartphones, including the Apple iPhone and Samsung Galaxy, for extra security checks on U.S.-bound flights from Europe, the Middle East and Africa.
Source: http://www.tsa.gov/press/releases/2014/07/06/enhanced-security-measures-certain-airports-overseas
Rates are FROM per person, per night based on 2 people sharing in USD. 50% single supplement, children and third adult rates on request.
Includes scenic Safari flight and road transfers.
April – May Camps closed for maintenance and upgrades
1 June – 31 October; From $11,160USD
1 November – 20 December; From $9980USD
21 December – 6 January; From $12,030USD
7 January – 31 March; From $10,410USD
50% additional single supplement
Have a question? Call our friendly team today on 0439044327.
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Moon Tours
Unit 13/1140 Nepean Hwy,
Mornington VIC 3931
