Hot Air Balloon flights
Flights by hot air balloon take off as dawn breaks over the Serengeti National
Park, the perfect silence of the early morning plains broken only by the soft
roar of the balloon. Far below, wildebeest scatter, looking everywhere but up
at the silent visitor that floats over their world. Giraffe stand next to
acacia trees, untroubled by the airborne visitors. After the thrill of landing,
a champagne breakfast awaits, the air becoming warmer as the sun climbs in the
sky and curious zebra look up from their grazing at the chink of cutlery in the
still, warm bush.
Deep sea and inland fishing
The water around
Zanzibar and Pemba islands is considered by experts to offer some of the best
fishing in the world, especially the Pemba Channel, between Zanzibar and Pemba,
and around Mafia Island, south of Zanzibar. Big game fish include barracuda, kingfish,
sailfish, billfish, wahoo, dorado and blue marlin. Rivers are stocked with
trout around Mt Kilimanjaro and Mt Meru. Large rivers such as the Kilombero and
Great Ruaha offer fabulous sport fishing for tiger fish, and large Nile perch
can be caught in the great lakes, especially Lake Victoria.
Diving and snorkeling
The coral reefs off Tanzania’s coast around Zanzibar and Mafia Island offer
some of the world’s finest scuba diving and snorkeling. Diving is possible all
year round, although the Kusi Monsoon (strongest June-Sept) is accompanied by
choppy seas and strong currents that make the more exposed reefs inaccessible.
There can also be strong winds in December and January. Visibility is best from
November to March, before the long rains set in.
Horse riding safari
Horse riding safaris are available from a few
camps in Tanzania, for all standards of rider. Wild animals are not afraid of
horses in the same way that they are of cars or pedestrians, allowing visitors
to approach the wildlife much more closely than usual.
Mountain climbing and hiking
For most climbers who visit Tanzania, the 5,869m
Kilimanjaro is the top prize. Mt Meru, another of Tanzania’s volcanic peaks, is
also popular, with the varied animal and plant life to be found on its slopes a
major draw. Meru is Africa’s fifth highest peak, with fabulous views of Mount
Kilimanjaro and the Momela Lakes from the summit. The challenging ascent to the
crater of Ol Donyo Lengai passes through some fantastic scenery, with panoramic
views of the Rift Valley. The track to the top of Lengai is very steep, and a
true challenge attempted only by hikers with a good level of fitness.
Paragliding and microlight flights
There are some fabulous areas to para-glide. Very few people para-glide in
Tanzania, therefore it is a novelty. Always seek permission from the local
village, explain what you are doing and where you think you will land (it is
illegal to fly over national parks). Just some of the areas to fly are the
Usambaras, the Rift Valley and numerous hills around Mt Meru. Microlight
flights are now also available over Lake Manyara National Park and the Great
Rift Valley.
Boat safaris
The soft chug of an outboard engine, or the whispering flap of a canvas sail;
boat safaris in Tanzania are a tranquil and relaxing way to watch wildlife.
This is one of the best ways to see the Selous Game Reserve, up the huge muddy
brown sweep of the Rufiji River, leopard whisking away from rocks at the boat’s
approach. Sail into chimpanzee territory on a dhow, skimming over the fresh,
crystal waters of Lake Tanganyika, or travel up the Wami River in Saadani,
surrounded by amazing bird life, hippos and alligators.
Walking Safaris
A walk through the African bush is a wonderful way to experience Africa
intimately. Smells and sounds become distinct and varied, and smaller creatures
gain significance. They are no longer simply rushed past in the race for the
bigger game. When larger animals do appear, they are met at eye level; the land
is truly shared between humans and animals. Safety is not an issue – all walks
are accompanied by armed, experienced guides and game rangers. Walks can be
from a few hours to a full day with picnic lunch. Many hotels and camps will
offer guided walks in the national parks or community areas.
Cultural Tourism
In Tanzania, a land of superb landscapes and spectacular wildlife, another
attraction stands equally tall – the people. Tanzania’s people are among the
most welcoming and approachable on earth, with a range of fascinating cultures
ready to be shared with visitors. From the Wa Chagga of the slopes of
Kilimanjaro to the now world-famous Maasai, a cultural excursion or a longer
stay among local people is likely to become one of the most rewarding
experiences of any holiday in Tanzania.
Spa Treatments.
The perfect way to ease tired limbs after an
exhilarating day's game viewing or in preparation for the beach, there are now
many hotels, resorts and lodges in Tanzania and Zanzibar offering world class
spa facilities to keep you feeling relaxed and rejuvenated.
Whale Watching.
Tanzania's Indian Ocean is home to one of the
least known populations of Humpback Whales in the world. Researchers from
Stockholm University and the University of Dar es Salaam are studying the
Humpback Whales found near Zanzibar to learn more about their population and
conservation status. The herds of migrating whales arrive in the waters around
Zanzibar in late July, and August is now becoming the most popular month for
sightings.
Kitesurfing.
Kitesurfing has become the hottest and most popular up-and-coming activity in
Zanzibar. Kitesurfing centres are popping up all along the east coast of
the island, providing adrenaline seeking visitors with the chance to undertake
lessons and get out on the waves while on holiday.
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