About The Trip
"Tanzania, a country of safari superlatives, provides the essential elements of a classic African adventure. Among its unspoiled wilderness one can still find Masai nomads and throngs of wild creatures. It is the largest country in East Africa, with an area of 364,900 square miles and a population of thirty million. Situated just south of the equator, it has a truly magnificent variety of landscapes and twelve national parks that are unsurpassed in beauty and variety. Millions of wild animals roam the savannah and grassland in gigantic herds, seeking new grazing after the rains. Tanzania is home to elephants, zebras, wildebeest, antelopes, and a variety of predators, as well as a range of birdlife.
On this comprehensive safari we had the opportunity to view and experience much of the diversity of Tanzania. Our adventure took us from the green foothills of Mt. Kilimanjaro to the limitless expanse of the Serengeti Plain, to the misty beauty of Ngorongoro Crater, to the scenic gem that is Tarangire, and, for a change of pace, to the historic island of Zanzibar, which lies 23 miles off the coast. We had opportunities to meet and interact with native peoples and animal researchers in the field, who devote much of their lives to the study of wild animals in their natural habitat."
Tanzania’s Outstanding Conservation Focus
"Twenty-five percent of Tanzania’s Land (over 95,000 square miles, probably more than any other country on earth) has been set aside for wildlife parks, reserves, and game areas. This far-sighted policy is to Tanzania’s credit; as a result of this commitment to conservation, protected areas have more than doubled since the country gained independence in 1961. However, Tanzania’s economic resources for rangers, roads, research, and administration of these lands are meager, and illegal poaching and hunting still take their toll on wildlife. As the population has grown these activities have increased. The integrity of national parks and wildlife reserves are also being threatened as the need for land and food increases.
There are many projects going on in Tanzania today to help solve these problems. Ngorongoro Crater is part of the extensive Ngorongoro Conservation Area, which is a pioneering effort in multi-purpose land use, allowing for the protection of the animals and the continuation of tribal lifestyles at the same time. Also, there are several animal research projects taking place in the field that will increase understanding of animal as well as human needs, which will hopefully assist both in living together peaceable."