10 popular global personalities on a Tanzania Safari

In 2013 I posted about top 10 reasons to visit Tanzania, if you were not convinced this is the ultimate call to action. I went through different website to prepare a list of 10 global personalities who ever graced the majestic land of authentic wonders Tanzania. In one way or the other I believe there is at least one star you look up to from the list. May be this should trigger your safari appetite to visit Tanzania next year.

A.                Hollywood Celebrities

1.       Oprah Winfrey

On July 2013 Oprah and partner Stedman escaped to Serengeti National Park in Tanzania for exclusive game drives and wildlife sightings and the memorable hot air ballon ride. Read more......

It's Oprah world in Serengeti!

2.       Justin Timberlake and wife Jessica Biel

Newly weeds should emulate Justin and Jessica’s taste and style by honeymooning in Tanzania just like them. Read more.......

Newlyweds Jessica Biel and Justin Timberlake can be seen getting on a private plane at the Kilimanjaro International airport in Tanzania on October 21, 2012.
Credit: Splash News

3.       Terrence Jepkins

The think like a man star and E! News presenter visited Tanzania to “give back, learn new cultures and marvel at God’s work”. Read more.......

Live from mE! is this Terrence's Family? (photo: Belle Naija)

B.            World renowned athletes

4.       Lionel Messi

Selfie battle between Kobe Bryant and Lionel Messi Turkish Airlines advert has it all. Take a look....

Uhuru Peak and Messi!

5.       Luis Figo leads Real Madrid stars to Tanzania

Football legends such as Luis Figo, Micheal Owen, Fernando Morientes , Fabio Cannavaro, Fernando Hierro, Reuben De la Red, Christian Karembeu, , Michel Salgado ,Steve Mcmannaman, Ruud van Nisterlooy, Jose Maria Gutierrez Hernandez ‘Guti’, and Fernando Redondo visited various Tanzania safari tourist sites like the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Mount Kilimanjaro and many more. Read more.....

Figo at a press conference in Tanzania (photo: taarifa.co.tz)

C.               World billionaire’s club

6.       Howard Buffet

An American billionaire visited Tanzania twice in less than a month? This is too good to be true but it is an immutable fact. See full story

Jump Buffet jump like a Maasai!

D.               The Royals (Prince & Princess)/politicians

7.       Saudi Arabian princess Haifa Bint AbdulAziz al Mogrin

 “It is unbelievable, I used to read about the Serengeti in various literatures but today I am overwhelmed from what I can see here” declared the princess.  Fortunately enough I was among the Saudi Tanzanian Youth Dialogue Forum delegate which took part earlier this year initiated by the princess and Tanzania parks. I had the pleasure to eat, sightsee, discuss with the princess and fellow delegates both from Saudi Arabia and Tanzania. It was a safari of a life time. Read more......

Exclusively Me and the Princess of Saudi Arabia in Arusha National Park!

8.       Japanese Prince Akishino and his lovely wife Princess Kito

July, 2014 the royal family had an impeccable experience in Tanzania by visiting Ngorongoro Conservation Area and Serengeti National Park. Read more.......

Minister for Natural Resources and Tourism Hon. Lazaro Nyalandu (MP) welcomes Prince Akishino and his wife Princess Kito from Japan at Manyara Airstrip ready for their visit to Ngorongoro Crater and Serengeti National Park. (Photo: Pascal Shelutete)

9.       Former US President’s daughter  Chelsea Clinton

August 2013 the president’s daughter visited Tarangire National Park exploring  the beauty of the Park which is famous for a large collection of baobab trees, spectacular large mammal’s population and variety of bird species. Full story....

No ivory trade just a statue (Photo: TANAPA)

E.            Religion/Spiritual leaders

10.   The late Doctor Myles Munroe

In less than a month before his tragic death with wife and some delegates from his organization, this phenomenon public speaker and preacher had his final safari in Tanzania at Kilimanjaro National Park.

Post by Myles Munroe.

I have given you some inspirational role models and I hope you start parking for a life time safari experience in Tanzania. Karibu Tanzania!

Note: If you know any other global stars who have stepped their feet in Tanzania, please do not hesitate to keep us informed via the comment box.

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Phillip Imler and the Seven Natural Wonders of Africa.

A reminder to the world that Tanzania scooped three position at the Seven Natural Wonders of Africa. The three attractions include Ngorongoro crater (world's largest unbroken caldera), Mountain Kilimanjaro (the roof of Africa) and the incredible Serengeti migration. I have never been any prouder of my country than this big win.

Phillip Imler the Founder & President at the 7 Natural Wonders.

Special thanks to Mr. Phillip Imler the Founder and President at the Seven Natural Wonders for initiating this meaningful competition. Phillip Imler was recently appointed by Tanzania with two others as the U.S. Goodwill Ambassadors of tourism  

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How to reach climax enjoyment when in Tanzania via tourism activities and sports.

It is well known that  everything and anything is as fully enjoyed if and only if you get to the climax point. Consider this example: Biology has taught us that ejaculation is the climax point for men when making love. You and I need to feel that we are satisfied to the fullest. And this is the reason why we act, think and talk they way we do, so that we get satisfied.

Travel and Tourism is among-est the popular way of re-energizing, refreshing and or re-boosting back our enthusiasm towards life. That is why we opt for vacations and holidays now and then.

You have had your share of vacations and holidays in your favorite destinations, but this time is Tanzania's time. Oh yeah! am serious about this.

Apart from the 15 famous National Parks and various Game Reserves that I bet you know at least 4 of them, there is much more other things to do than visiting the parks.

You can't leave Tanzania for any reason without doing at least 3 of these activities and sports.

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.

Apart from these, there are also seasonal activities and outings to die for in Tanzania. These activities can be combined with your safaris to the wildlife parks and you will get maximum enjoyment.

What do you think? Isn't Tanzania worthy a visit? Ofcorse Yes! I personally welcome you to this authentic wonderful land of Kilimanjaro, Zanzibar and the Serengeti filled with the most generous beautiful people.

Make sure you have big, fun plans in your live, because life only comes once, you better make the most out of it. "Don't per-sue happiness, create it."

You can learn more about Tanzania tourism via Tanzania Tourist Board, Tanzania National Park (TANAPA), Tanzania Tourism on line and other useful links on the navigation tabs above.

Welcome and enjoy your stay!
oxox oxox @KaribuBongo.

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Mountain Kilimanjaro (The Roof of Africa).

AUTHENTIC WONDER

Kilimanjaro. The name itself is a mystery wreathed in clouds. It might mean Mountain of Light, Mountain of Greatness or Mountain of Caravans. Or it might not. The local people, the Wachagga, don't even have a name for the whole massif, only Kipoo (now known as Kibo) for the familiar snowy peak that stands imperious, overseer of the continent, the summit of Africa.

Kilimanjaro, by any name, is a metaphor for the compelling beauty of East Africa. When you see it, you understand why. Not only is this the highest peak on the African continent; it is also the tallest free-standing mountain in the world, rising in breathtaking isolation from the surrounding coastal scrubland – elevation around 900 metres – to an imperious 5,895 metres (19,336 feet).

Kilimanjaro is one of the world's most accessible high summits, a beacon for visitors from around the world. Most climbers reach the crater rim with little more than a walking stick, proper clothing and determination. And those who reach Uhuru Point, the actual summit, or Gillman's Point on the lip of the crater, will have earned their climbing certificates. And their memories.

But there is so much more to Kili than her summit. The ascent of the slopes is a virtual climatic world tour, from the tropics to the Arctic. 

Even before you cross the national park boundary (at the 2,700m contour), the cultivated footslopes give way to lush montane forest, inhabited by elusive elephant, leopard, buffalo, the endangered Abbot’s duiker, and other small antelope and primates. Higher still lies the moorland zone, where a cover of giant heather is studded with otherworldly giant lobelias.

Above 4,000m, a surreal alpine desert supports little life other than a few hardy mosses and lichen. Then, finally, the last vestigial vegetation gives way to a winter wonderland of ice and snow – and the magnificent beauty of the roof of the continent.

About Kilimanjaro National Park

Size: 1668 sq km 641 sq miles).
Location: Northern Tanzania, near the town of Moshi.

Getting there
128 km (80 miles) from Arusha.
About one hour’s drive from Kilimanjaro airport.

What to do
Six usual trekking routes to the summit and other more-demanding mountaineering routes.
Day or overnight hikes on the Shira plateau. Nature trails on the lower reaches.
Trout fishing.
Visit the beautiful Chala crater lake on the mountain’s southeastern slopes.

When to go
Clearest and warmest conditions from December to February, but also dry (and colder) from July-September.

Accommodation
Huts and campsites on the mountain.
Several hotels and campsites outside the park in the village of Marangu and town of Moshi.

More info on accomodation

NOTE:
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 and enjoy the beauty of the mountain.

NOTE 2:
NEW RATES FOR PORTERS AND GUIDES
(JUNE '08)

Porters
USD 10 per day
Cooks USD 15 per day
Guides USD 20 per day

Source:Tanapa

PARK POSTER

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