MEETING MOTHER AFRICA
There are few places on earth where you can come eye to eye with the greatest animals that walk our planet… one of this places, perhaps the best one, is Tanzania. This country was blessed with some of the most beautiful landscapes on earth. The perfect beaches of Zanzibar, the iconic Kilimanjaro and of course the wild savannas of Africa. Tanzania is paradise for animal lovers. On this trip we’ll take you to see the country on a journey that we promise to be unforgettable. Let’s explore the natural parks where you can see millions of animals in their natural habit. Let’s go enjoy some of the best beaches on the island of Zanzibar. It will be a journey full of emotions and adventure to the interior of Mother Africa!
Tanzania’s video, made by João Cajuda, showing some of the places that you will visit
Vídeo da Tanzânia feito pelo João Cajuda e que mostra alguns dos lugares que irás visitar.
We got the land in Africa, the smell and the heat here are already different. On site will be the travel leader John Cajuda or Mariana Vaz (depending on date). We follow the hotel route to transfer to Arusha where the whole group will gather. Along the way you can still enjoy the small villages on the roadside, red and soil stalls exhibiting the most varied tropical fruits, with luck, if the sky is clear you can even see the gigantic summit Kilimanjaro covered by its glaciers. After doing the check-in at the hotel the afternoon is free to dinner time, when the entire group meets for a brief presentation of the tour to clarify some questions you have.
KILIMANJARO/ARUSHA
We’ll arrive to African lands. Here the smell and the heat are already different. On site will be the travel leader João Cajuda or Mariana Vaz (depending on date). We’ll go on the transfer to Arusha, where the whole group will gather. Along the way you can still enjoy the small villages on the roadside, red and soil stalls exhibiting the most varied tropical fruits. If lucky, the sky is clear and you can even see the gigantic summit Kilimanjaro covered by its glaciers. After doing the check-in at the hotel the afternoon is free until dinner time. By that time, the entire group meets for a brief presentation of the tour and to clarify some possible doubts.
ARUSHA – TARANGIRE NATIONAL PARK – LAKE MANYARA
We will wake up early, after all we came to explore the savannas and not to sleep. After all the tribe gets in the jeeps, We’ll keep on to the first natural park, Tarangire.
The Tarangire National Park is the sixth largest national park in Tanzania, after Ruaha, Serengeti, Mikumi, Katavi and Mkomazi.
The national park is located in Manyara region. The park’s name comes from the Tarangire River that runs through the park, the only source of water for wild animals during dry seasons. It has an area of approximately 2,850 square kilometers. The landscape and vegetation is extremely diverse, a mixture that you can not find any other place in northern Tanzania. The hilly landscape is dotted with dense forest, grass and of course with the famous and beautiful trees of Baobab.
The Baobabs come to be 5 to 30m in height and have diameters of trunk between 7 to 11m. Of the nine species, six are native of Madagascar (I really want to go see them), two are native of continental Africa and the Arabian Peninsula, and one is native of Australia. Tarangire is also home to over 550 species of birds. The park is a haven for bird enthusiasts. Here you can find dozens of species even in the dry season. Also you will have the first meeting with Giraffes, Elephants, Lions, etc … After a quick, but memorable first lunch, in the middle of the savanna we will return to road towards the Manyara Park. The road is very beautiful, we’ll pass many street markets, villages and Lake Manyara, a giant lake that is home to a diverse array of wildlife. It’s where we will have dinner and sleep.
LAKE MANYARA – LAKE EYASI – SERENGETI
We’ll wake up very early to visit the Hadzabe tribe. The Hadzabe are an indigenous ethnic group living near the lake Eyasi. They live as hunters, the same way their ancestors did for thousands of years. They are considered one of the last tribes of hunters in the world and today we are going to see them hunt in the morning. The village of the Hadzabe is located in the middle of nowhere. They live in small huts made of dried mud and tree trunks. The only contact they have with the “outside world” is when some tourists visit their area. There are not,nor even want to be related to any other civilizations. To communicate they have their own language, the Khoisan.
Before start hunting, we will have the opportunity to visit the cave where they spend most of their day to build bows and arrows, to rest and smoke. We will learn how to make fire with only two sticks, very interesting. The hunting will start when the chief of the tribe is ready. Usually they eat monkeys, wild boars and also honey and fruit when available. They use dogs (many dogs) to help them catch the animals during the hunt. At the end of the visit we will continue our way into the heart of Tanzania, to Serengeti. It will be a 6-hour journey by dirt roads. After check-in we’ll have dinner and relax by the pool.
SERENGETI
Serengeti could be named WOW! That was the word I used incessantly since I entered the park. Today we’ll wander through the endless plains of the Serengeti. It is the shrine of the most famous wildlife in the world, unequaled for its natural beauty and scientific value. With more than two million wildebeest, half a million springbok and zebras, 3000 lions, many elephants and other species … The Serengeti has the highest concentration of animals in Africa. The day will be to observe the thousands of animals wandering here … the leader is Mother Nature and the law of the strongest. With some luck you will watch hunting. Get ready for being a day of great emotions. After a walk through the park, we’ll stop for lunch. In the afternoon we’ll continue our adventure through the park and later we’ll return to the hotel so we can enjoy the wonderful swimming pool .
SERENGETI – NGORONGORO CRATER
We will wake up early, have breakfast, check-out and move to a new park, Ngorongoro Crater. Ngorongoro Conservation Area is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located 180 km from Arusha. Ngorongoro means “gift of life”. It is believed that its formation took place 2.5 million years after a huge active volcano have collapsed into it, leaving this big boiler that is now considered one of the seven natural wonders in Africa. This huge crater about 19 km in diameter and 8,292 square kilometers is home to thousands of species. Approximately 25,000 large animals live here, like black rhinoceros, African buffalo, hippo, zebra, gazelles, crocodiles, impala, leopard, lions, etc. After a visit to the interior of crater and a lunch close to our Hippos friends, we’ll go to the hotel. You’ll be able to enjoy the swimming pool, with a stunning view for the park, and relax til the sunset, that promises to be phenomenal. We’ll have dinner and sleep.
NGORONGORO CRATER – ARUSHA – ZANZIBAR
After checking out and depart towards Arusha,will be the end of our Safari, but there is still much more to discover. We’ll catch a flight to Zanzibar, a pearl of the African coast. Zanzibar is an exotic island with such a strong turquoise blue water, that seems photoshop. The island has a tropical architecture with bungalows made of palm leaf that contrast with the houses with Arabic details. Known as the island of spices, Zanzibar has a lot to offer … including white sand beaches ideal to rest. After the flight, we’ll go on our private transfer to the hotel. After check-in you can put on your bikini, pick up a coconut water, run through the palm trees and fall into the Indian Ocean waters. We will stay in this paradise for four nights.
ZANZIBAR
Free day to stay at the beach or for an Extra activity (not included in the package, 75€)
Extra Activity Option:
Spice Tour: We will visit a farm in the countryside to try and understand everything about the spices. Where they come from, what are there’s benefits… at the end you can buy all the products.
After finishing the Spice tour we will head to the famous The Rock. The Rock is a picturesque house build in the middle of the sea. Travelers can have lunch or take a walk at the beach. Lunch at the The Rock not included.
ZANZIBAR
Free day to stay at the beach or for an Extra activity (not included in the package, prices bellow)
Extra Activity: Do some snorkeling activities is the crystal clear waters of Zanzibar. This activity is not included in the package, travelers are able to join or not this activity. Price is 50€ per person.
ZANZIBAR
Free day to stay at the beach.
At the end of the day we will get together for our farewell dinner at the beach
ZANZIBAR – FLIGHT TO FINAL DESTINATION
After having breakfast, we’ll check out and go on our private transfer to Zanzibar airport. Then each traveler goes their on way to the final destination..
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Is this trip for me?
This trip is for people who like to have fun and make friends, regardless of age. We are sure that if you come with a relaxed mind you’ll have an unforgettable week. It is important to understand that this is an adventure trip, and so, it is always unforeseen. Traveling in Tanzania is not like going to the Four Seasons in Paris … the internet can have weak sign or not work, the air conditioning can break, the shower can not come out with so much pressure and hot as in your house, etc. .. also, unfortunately good weather is not guarantee, sometimes it rains, the sea water is stirred and it is important that you know that there may be changes in the itinerary. what it would be a trip without some adventure ?!
If you are inviting a friend to join the tour is essential to show this information. All we do not want is a cranky traveler who has been “dragged” by its friends spoiling the fun and relaxed energy of the group.
What kind of rooms are we staying in?
We will be staying in double rooms. If you are traveling alone, you will be paired with another traveler of the same gender. In some cases you may need to share a triple room. If you are traveling as a couple, you’ll get your own private room together.
What kind of hotels are we staying in?
All the hotels are picked by João Cajuda. We will be accommodated in different hotels, some lodges 3 *** and 4 **** and finally a beautiful boutique hotel in Zanzibar.
How are the hotels in Savannah?
There are several types of lodges in Africa, there are tents and stone structure. We will always stay in stone lodges, so it is easier for travelers to move and relax in the recreational areas of the lodges.
Is it safe?
Of course, Tanzania has millions of tourists every year. It is important to understand that you are in wildlife habitat and sometimes animals approach the lodges. But as you should image all hotels have guards and it’s very uncommon for dangerous situations to happen. You also need to take care when you do the safari, do not get the members as the head or arms out of the jeep when you are very close to wildlife. I Know that when you see a baby lion drinking, you will feel like jumping out of jeep hold it, but remember, this is not your environment and these are wild animals.
Are the flights included?
It only includes the one-way flight from Arusha to Zanzibar. As for the international flight, it is not included, you will have to purchase it individually.
When should I buy my flight?
You should buy your flight only after making the payment of the tour and have the confirmation that your reservation in LEVA-ME is completed.
Can I go alone?
Of course, most of our travelers sign up individually. It is a trip that you will meet new people and make friends.
Who will share my journey with?
First of all you’ll be throughout the trip with one of the tour leaders, John Cajuda or Mariana Vaz (depending on dates). Then you will spend a week with other travelers, who have many things in common with you, like the passion to travel, the adventure, the discovery … and are looking for new emotions and unforgettable moments in this trip. Usually we have travelers from 20 to 70 years old. I assure you that the atmosphere is very fun and you’ll end the trip with a new group of friends.
What is the number of travelers?
It depends on the demand to those dates, but it willl be minimum 10 and maximum 22.
The group of travelers traveling all together?
No, there are travelers coming from different parts of the world. So the meeting point is in Arusha. You have the flexibility to choose the time of the flight that most please you.
How do we meet in Tanzania?
We’ll take the data and flight schedules of all travelers. When arriving Arusha airport, you will have a driver waiting. He will drive you to the hotel where the tour leader John Cajuda or Mariana Vaz will welcome you.
Is there an age requirement?
You have to be 18 years old or older. If you are 16, you can come when accompanied by parents. The price is the same as an adult.
Do I need to take any specific equipment?
No, no special equipment necessary, just bring comfortable clothes and shoes, bikini and flip-flops.
Will I have any time to myself?
Of course! I hate tours that book every minute of your day. Our tour will be busy, but there will also be plenty of time to explore on your own!
Why are some lunches not included?
Well, because I like to give you some time to be alone and seize every second of your way. So most of lunches are free,so you can go whatever you want. The expenses on the meals extras will be approximately 130€. (average)
If you want to go to Tanzania a few days before, or stay after, can I book accommodation with you?
Yes, if you decide to go a few days early or stay more days after the tour is finished, you can book those extra nights with us.
João and Mariana climbed Kilimanjaro one week before doing the Safaris and going to Zanzibar I. As it is an experience that not everyone is willing to do, we decided not to include in the tour. Anyway, if it is a dream you have and now you’re going to Tanzania and do not want to miss the opportunity, you can go a week before. Adventure yourself climbing and join us in the first day of the tour. You can read João’s post about kilimanjaro. You will find everything you need to know. www.joaocajuda.com/pt/kilimanjaro/
What about visas?
Everyone needs a visa to entry Tanzania. The visa is paid upon arrival at the airport (50$USD)
How many places can I buy at one time for the tour?
As many as you want. The maximum of travelers is 23 travelers and 1 tour leader.
Can I save places?
No, places are only reserved after payment.
Any doubts?
If you still have doubts, send us an e-mail: info@leva-me.com
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