TRAVEL TIPS
Tanzania is located in East Africa between longitude, 29 degrees and 41 degrees east and latitude 1 degree and 12 degrees south.
Tanzania is one of the unique destinations on the African continent that has yet to be discovered by many. It is a land of many wonders hubbing an un-paralleled diversity of fauna and flora. Kilimanjaro, the highest permanently snow-capped free standing mountain in Africa, the exotic Islands of Zanzibar, the finest game sanctuaries of Serengeti, Tarangire, Lake Manyara, Ngorongoro Crater, Ruaha, Selous and the Marine Park of Mafia Island are only but a few of the living examples. The scenery, topography and very friendly people harbour the growth of excellent cultural tourism beach holidays, game hunting, historical and archaeological ventures – and certainly the best wildlife photographic safaris on the continent.
Tourist Attractions
Besides cultural attributes, the other tourism attractions in the country
include the rich game to view in National Parks, Game Controlled Areas
and Games Reserves.
Just imagine viewing the famous tree climbing lions in the country's
northern parks!
The Kilimanjaro National Park does feature the great ice-caped Equatorial
mountain, the Kilimanjaro. The mountain invites challenge to conquer
it up its peak that skyscrapes at almost 6km high to mountain climbers.
The Arusha National Park offers everything one wants to see regarding
volcanic features and lakes, the flamingoes; buffaloes, the mountain
vegetation and the general scenic view of the magnificent Mount Meru.
The Tarangire and Lake Manyara National Parks, though relatively smaller
parks; located south west of Arusha town do offer plenty to see. Black
rhinos; over 380 species of birds; the worlds largest bird the ostrich;
the Kori bustard the only world heaviest bird that can fly, elephants;
wart hogs, baboons, zebra, the tree-climbing lions, hot springs, and
the rising steep escarpment of the Tanzania Great rift Valley are only
a selection of what these areas can offer
.
Ngorongoro Conservation Area (NCA) about 828 Sq. You will be attracted
by the relief, its mountains, drifting sand dunes and the diverse wildlife
and the Maasai people. The NCA, due to these and more qualities including
its being nearer the cradle of mankind, the Olduvai Gorge, it was declared
a World Heritage Site in 1978. The only place on the planet where a
human being is living in harmony with wildlife without harming one another
todate the only place to go is the Ngorogoro Conservation Area. It is
culture and ecotourism smoothly nurtured in the environment.
To the north west of NCA, spreads endless plain of the Serengeti National
Park (14,763Sq. Km). With over 3 million large animals, involved in
seasonal migration the Serengeti has the greatest concentration wildlife
unparalleled in the world. The ecological rules regarding who eats who,
or lonely death while swimming across rivers during migration and how
it is important to be in groups for survival can be observed clearly
here.
In southern Tanzania, there lies the greatest wild reserve and second
only to Serengeti in wildlife concentration, this is the Selous National
Park. Elephants, crocodiles and hippos in rivers; buffaloes, and baobab
trees dominate.
Other National Parks include Mahale (the haven of the chimpanzees and
baboons); Mikumi, Mkomazi, rubondo, Katavi and Juvenile Udzungwa rich
in plant diversity and in colobus monkeys.
Again, going around and across Tanzania, one finds more interesting
things. The remains from the oriental architecture found along the coast
and Zanzibar, the coral reefs such as those at the Wambe Shando and
Mwamba Wamba area; the sulphur springs in Tanga, the Mbozi meteorite
remains. The National Museum and other heritage sites add on more interesting
sites to visit
Safety
Tanzanians are well known for their friendly, laid-back attitude. In
most cases you will be humbled by their hospitality despite the fact
that most people are a lot poorer than you. As you travel in the touristy
areas, you will probably attract your fair share of souvenir hawkers
and beggars. Remember that these are poor people who are trying to earn
money to feed their families. If you aren't interested then say so,
but try and remain polite.
Basic Safety Rules for Travelers to Tanzania
• Make a copy of your passport and keep it in your luggage.
• Don't walk on your own at night in the major cities or on empty
beaches especially in Pemba and Zanzibar.
• Don't wear jewelry.
• Don't carry too much cash with you.
• Wear a money belt that fits under your clothes.
• Don't carry a lot of camera equipment especially in the major
cities.
• Beware of thieves posing as police officers.
Safety on Roads:
When driving in Africa there are a few simple rules, drive carefully and slowly (speed kills), remember animals and humans can cross the road at any time (quite often just in front of you), try never to drive at night, stay alert as roads are often poorly maintained and pot holes are to be found. Another fairly common occurrence are vehicles with missing headlights. Always wear you seat belts. If you are renting a car, keep the doors and windows locked while driving in the major cities. Car-jacking occurs fairly regularly but may not end in violence as long as you comply with demands made.
Safety on Safari:
Always listen to your guide!
When visiting wildlife areas do not walk into the bush without your guide!
Do not approach any wild animals: It is dangerous!
Do not swim in any rivers (presence of crocodiles and hippo's)!
Never feed any animals, however inquisitive they may appear to be!
How to get in to Tanzania;
Several major Airlines get into Tanzania; KLM (Royal Dutch
Airlines),Condor Airlines and Ethiopian Airways get into lands at Kilimanjaro
International Airport (KIA/JRO) and Dar es salaam International Airport
(DIA) daily. British Airways and Swiss Airlines lands at DIA at least
twice a week. Other Airlines are South African Airlines (SAA), Emirates,
YEMENAIR,Oman Air, Qatar Airways, and Kenya Airways.
We have domestic flights network covering all tourists’ destinations in East Africa.Air Tanzania, Precision Air, Zan Air, Coastal Aviation, Regional Air and other small charters.
Hint: Have you heard of Tanzanite Gemstone/jewel? Undoubtfuly you have heard. Tanzanite is a famous and most beautiful blue gemstone found in one place and only in Tanzania. Tanzanite jewel is found sold many places in most countries in the World. When a Traveler get chance to visit Tanzania is high time you have a good luck to purchase Tanzanite in relatively low prices. Just consult your Tour Operator to help you find registered Gemstone Dealers or Jewel Agents.
Immigration: An onward ticket and sufficient funds are required
when entering Tanzania. Visas required by all visitors except citizens
of the Commonwealth, Scandinavian countries and the Republic of Ireland.
It is very easy to get a visa at any Tanzanian embassy abroad. The visa
fee depends on the type of passport held. A visitor’s pass is
required for all travelers. This can be obtained free from any Tanzanian
diplomatic mission or point of entry. It is advisable to get one before
you leave home.
When to Visit; Tanzania has a Tropical climate. The central plateau is dry and arid with hot days and cool nights, while the north-west highlands are cool and temperate. June to September is the cooler season. There is no winter here. Temperatures in northern Tanzania range between 60 – 70 degree Fahrenheit during the day and 40 -50 degree Fahrenheit at night from May to October.
From November to March, the day –time temperatures varies from70-90 degree Fahrenheit and from 60 – 75 degree Fahrenheit at night.The ‘long rains’ are from March to May and the ‘short rains’ are between October and December. The hottest months are between October and February. On the coast, it rains in November and December. From March to May, Coastal areas are hot and humid although sea breezes cool the area pleasantly between June and September.
Safari Dress; in wildlife lodges and country hotels, the emphasis is on comfort and informality. For ladies light, easy to wash, drip –dry blouses, skirts dresses, light khaki trousers and bush jackets go well. For evenings, light dresses or trouser suits are suitable. For men, drip –dry casual shirts, short khaki trousers and bush jackets are ideal. Evening attire in towns can consist of light suits or long sleeved shirt and tie.Bright colours should be avoided while viewing wildlife. Visitors to Ngorongoro are advised to carry a pullover as it can be chilly after sunset. A bush hat or a scarf for protection against the sun and dust is a must. It is very useful to carry a pair of sunglasses, insect repellent, suntan lotion and a flashlight.
Photographing; It is advisable to ask a permission before photographic any event relating to certain tribes like Maasai, Hadzables, Datoga. These tribes are very conservative and have maintained their original traditional customs. They still do primitive pastoralism, wild fruits gathering and wearing local made materials covering part or half of body. Some Government Institutions and Organizations don’t allow any photographic action to them or near to them. These are Military Camps and Bank of Tanzania just for security purpose. When on the road and hear traffic hail don’t continue driving or walking, if you have the car park aside or if walking step aside. This is the signal that the top Government Leader is passing like President, Vice President and Prime Minister.
Health: A yellow fever vaccination certificate is essential if arriving from yellow fever infected areas. Anti-malaria tablets are recommended. Take prescribed drugs a few days prior to arrival, during your stay, and for a short period after returning. Boil or sterilize drinking water and milk. Cook or peel vegetables. Private health insurance is recommended.
Currency; There is no restriction on the importation of foreign currency. Foreign currency can be changed at the bureau de change which offer better rate than the banks. Insurance; you are strongly advised to have your own insurance cover to cover baggage, personal accident and medical expenses.
Tipping; Tipping is not obligatory.
Tipping is at the discretion of the visitor and the following should only be used a guideline.
Driver Safari Guide; US $ 15.00 per day.
Mountain climb Guide; US $ 15.00 per day.
For outstanding personal service, you may decide to give a higher tip.
Helpful travel tips; Tanzanians are generally very friendly people. We would like you enjoy your stay in this country therefore :
i) Don’t change money in the streets even if you are given a good rate as you might be cheated. Go to bureau change.
i) Don’t go to too cheaper Tour Operator the services might be too disappointing or vehicles used can broke in the middle of safari, or poor accommodation or any mishap pens like any cheating. Just try to compare prices, and choose, accept the standard prices.
iii) Always ride in registered taxis
iv) Don’t take fastest buses.
v) Never walk unaccompanied at night in poorly –lit streets or along deserted streets.
vi) When shopping in streets bazaars, always bargain. However some prices e.g in restaurants are fixed and you might be mistaken for miser if you start bargaining.
vii- Always choose a guest house or lodge that
has a working telephone. I hope above information will give you hint
on how to ask specific questions
Mount Kilimanjaro information on weather, routes
and altitude sickness.
Introduction
Mount Kilimajaro is within Tanzania Northern Part, managed by Tanzania
National Parks.
Kilimanjaro is located just (Location: 3.07 S, 37.35 E) near the equator, in the Tropical Country yet its peak covered by snow throughout the year. Rising abruptly from the open plains, capped by snow and frequently fringed by clouds, it is one of Africa’s classic images.
Mount Kilimanjaro is the highest Mountain in Africa 5895m/19340
ft. is the only Mountain in the World with the perfect symmetrical crater.
Is the highest free standing Mountain in the World?
Is a metaphor for the compelling beauty of East Africa? Kilimanjaro
is one of the highest walkable summits on the planet, a beacon for visitors
from around the world.
KILIMANJARO is the highest mountain in Africa and the tallest freestanding
mountain known to man. It is a mountain where you can hike for more
than 90 kilometers, gain 4 000 meters in altitude, traverse rain forest,
moorland, alpine desert, snow fields and ice cliffs, all virtually on
the equator! A truly unforgettable and fascinating adventure.
The Topography
Kilimanjaro rises from plains at approximately 2000 meters, right up
to 5 895 meters. An ancient volcano, it now lies dormant except for
some tell tale signs of fumaroles in the ash pit. Two other peaks, namely
Mawenzi and Shira, flank the main peak of Kibo. These peaks form spectacular
photographic backdrops when viewed from various vantage points along
the routes to the summit.
The different routes to the summit pass through five ecological zones,
being the cultivated lower slopes, Montane forest, heath and moorland,
alpine desert and the ice capped summit.
The lower slopes of the mountain are mainly used for agricultural purposes.
The climate here is ideal for the production of coffee, an industry
that Tanzania is famous for. Further up, a rain forest belt encircles
the mountain up to about 2 00 meters. As you proceed higher, you pass
through the heath which changes into moorland, semi-desert at altitude,
progressing into total desert and finally into an alpine region with
permanent ice glaciers. The higher slopes are covered with scree, loose
stones resembling gravel, making it more difficult to negotiate. The
main glaciers edging their way down the slopes of Kibo are Heim, Rebmann,
Decken, Arrow and some smaller ones. These glaciers form the permanent
ice cap of the mountain, although they are, as a result of global warming,
believed to receding each year.
The Climate
Being only 3 degrees south of the equator, Kilimanjaro is influenced
by the passage of the Inter-tropical Convergence Zone. There is a constant
feeling of summer, and there are two rainy seasons to keep in mind.
The highest rainfall occurs from March lasting until about the end of
May. This is monsoon time. Slightly less rain falls during the short
rainy period, which occurs from around October to November, but can
extend into December. Apart from these factors, climbing Kilimanjaro
remains fairly constant throughout the year.
The maximum rainfall occurs in the forest belt, where it can reach up
to 2000 mm per year. At the summit, which can be, describe as a "high
altitude desert", the rainfall reaches less than 100 mm per year.
Rain (and snow at higher altitudes) can however be encountered at any
time of the year.
The average temperatures at the foot of the mountain is 25°-30°
C and on the summit, it can range from minus 10° -20° C. At
3000m the day temperatures range from 5°-15° C, and at night
frost is normally encountered. Clearly a large variation, making it
more interesting to summit the mountain.
Best Season to climb Mount Kilimanjaro
The warmest months with the clearest trekking days, are from mid to
late December, January, February, September and October. The rains often
come in April and the start of May with the possibility of some snow.
June through to August are superb trekking months, though evening temperatures
tend to be colder. The wettest months, are November and early December,
where snow falls are likely. Note however, that as this is a mountain
it is not impossible to get sporadic snow or rainfall at odd times throughout
the year.
Many people like to arrange their summit around a full moon and Christmas
and New Year are very popular.
Kilimanjaro Trekking Routes
Kilimanjaro trekking routes are; Machame route
mostly 6 days, Marangu can be climbed 5 and 6 days, Londorossi/Lemosho
7 or 8 days, Umbwe 5 day or 6 days,Londorossi/Western Breach 8-10 days,
Rongai 6 days , And 8 days Shira Exclusive fantastic route-through Shira
Plateau from Londorossi gate is the most fascinating and scenic route
up Kilimanjaro.
Machame Route
This is probably the most scenic and most beautiful route to the summit.
The 6-day route is however physically more challenging than the Marangu
route. The day walks are longer and steeper, however the summit night
is one hour shorter. The scenic traverse of the Western Breach offers
some stunning views! Only tented accommodation available, which can
be less comfortable and will require a good sleeping bag and hiking
mattress.
Umbwe Route
This route is one of the shorter but also one of the more difficult
routes to reach Uhuru peak--but quiet spectacular. Umbwe is known for
its caves. The first night you actually sleep at the Umbwe Cave Camp
with two more caves that can be visited on route the following day.
Also sometimes used as a descending route.
Shira Route
The Shira Plateau is one of the most scenic and most fascinating areas
on Kilimanjaro. Depending on the weather conditions you can drive by
4 wheel drive vehicles, to within a 1/2 hours walk of Shira Hut (4000m).
Even this drive is very spectacular indeed and offers some magnificent
views of Mt Meru and the Great Rift Valley in general. Game is often
sighted and the road features some striking vegetation changes ranging
from forest, grassland, heath to moorland. The fast ascend by vehicle
to about 4000m will require additional acclimatisation, after which
it will be possible to ascend Uhuru Peak either via the Western Breach
or via the Barafu hut.
Mweka Route
This route can only be use as a descending route for all the western
routes. You can also climb to Heim Glacier.
Lemosho Route
It is a remote, unspoiled and very beautiful route to the Roof of Africa.
The forest around the Lemosho Glades is rich in big game animals such
as elephant and buffalo, which may sometimes require a game ranger to
accompany climbers on the first day. This route is however a long route
which requires 7-days for a comfortable completion, which also makes
it more expensive.
Rongai (Naro Moru) Route
Rongai is the second easiest and gentle to climb Mount Kilimanjaroafter
Marangu
You can start this route from both the Tanzanian side of the border
or from Rongai in Kenya, but all park fees and arrangements must be
made at the Marangu gate. The route may only be used for ascend and
the Marangu route must be used for descend. There are several big caves
along the route, which are used by the porters to overnight for the
first two nights.
Western Breach / Arrow Glacier
An alternative final ascend route which can be taken from all of the
western routes, sleeping at magnificent Arrow Glacier on your summit
night. The western Breach poses a very difficult walk up steep scree
with some rock scrambling occasionally required. Snow cover makes scree
easier but an ice axe is then required. It is also possible to sleep
an extra night inside the Kibo Crater!
Important things that Help climbers Reach Mount Kilimanjaro Summit.
-Climb slowly to increase your acclimatisation time and maximise your
chances of reaching the summit.
To avoid altitude sickness, allow a minimum of five nights, preferably
even more for the climb. Take your time
-There are also Mount Kilimanjaro Rangers, these are employed by Tanzania
National Parks and they work hand in hand with Mountain Guides mentioned
above in cases of Rescue if any case arises.
-Since these Mountain Guides are well trained and experienced, please
trust them for your safety. Listen to them and will enable you reach
Mount Kilimanjaro summit. These Guides are Friendly and will tell you
various stories and knowledge about Mount Kilimanjaro, they are so friendly.
-Take Enough Bottled Water with you. Water is very important.
-Also Chocolate and Biscuits with Glucose will help you on Summiting
day.
-First Aid Knowledge and KIT is very essential. Mountain Guides and
Porters are well equipped.
