Safari guide in Tanzania: journey into unknown land(1)
With its area of 945,087 km², twice the size of France, Tanzania, the country of the most beautiful safaris in the world, is also one of the largest in the southern hemisphere in East Africa. It is one of the most beautiful destinations on the African continent already by its ideal geographical location and its borders with Kenya and Uganda in the North, Mozambique in the South, Zambia and Malawi in the South-West, Congo in the West. Travel to an unknown land, discover its priceless treasures of fauna and flora but also its history and its natural landscapes and its mythical mountains like Kilimanjaro thanks to this safari guide in Tanzania.
History, Location and Geography of Tanzania within the African Continent
Bathed by the Indian Ocean, Tanzania shares with some of its neighboring countries the most beautiful natural treasures in the world.
Tanzania's natural borders are Kilimanjaro to the east and Lake Victoria to the north, the Kagera River to the northwest, Lake Tanganyika to the west, Malawi to the southwest and the Ruvuma River to the south. Tanzania is also involved in the management of Lakes Victoria, Tanganyika and Malawi.
The island part, the archipelago of Zanzibar is made up of three islands: Unguja, Pemba and Mafia.
The mainland is crossed by the Rift Valley to the west. The northern mountain range is dominated by Kilimanjaro and the Great Rift Valley which includes Lakes Natron, Eyasi and Manyara.
Tanzania, an independent state in East Africa, is one of the wild African countries that has managed to preserve an intact and authentic beauty. With multiple conservation areas to protect nature and exceptional wildlife, Tanzania has the advantage of being little affected by mass tourism. Friendly and welcoming country, it is proud to show its arrivals its majestic and preserved scenery rich in flora and fauna, its luxuriant plateaus and this throughout the year. Tanzania is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful nature reserves in Africa. Every year, it welcomes nearly 800,000 tourists eager for discoveries and natural landscapes that they travel in the form of hiking, circuits in the savannah, safaris or trekking to challenge the great Kilimanjaro or Ngorongoro.
During an adventure safari and trek in Tanzania, family stays or comfort tours, everything is possible in Tanzania.
The History of Tanzania
It is difficult to define Tanzania in one word. Country with large expanses of land scorched by the sun and water with its lakes invested by wild animals and endemic flora, its coastline facing the Indian Ocean, its mountains, Tanzania is also defined by its history marked by the colonization, struggles for influence for the quests for independence.
We find this heritage left by its many influences between African populations, merchants and settlers in the culture of the territory. The historical places in Tanzania with a rich past testify to the mixtures of tribal traditions left by the Europeans which are added to the Arab, Indian and Asian relics.
Tanzania today is an independent East African state historically oriented towards the Indian Ocean coast. Its territory was formed in 1964 by the former United Nations Trust Territory of Tanganyika, administered by the United Kingdom, and the British Protectorate of Zanzibar.
The origins of Tanzania
The origin of Tanzania begins 25 million years ago before Jesus Christ with the collisions of tectonic plates which will create the mountainous reliefs, in East Africa giving birth to Kilimanjaro, the Great Rift without forgetting the volcanoes. There are very few traces left of what Tanzania was like before the 19th century, except that it certainly housed the very first men during prehistory, traces left on sites such as the Olduvai Gorge or that of Isimila.
The appearance of the first colonies
The first hunter-gatherer tribes formed between 10,000 and 3,000 years BC in the east of the country. They evolve until the appearance of farmers and shepherds. The first settlers landed at the time of the 1st century arriving from Arab countries driven by the monsoon wind to the coasts of Tanzania. First Moroccan travelers and then Portuguese settlers set off to explore the Tanzanian territory. Like Ibn Battuta who discovered the city of Kilwa with its beautiful palace and a majestic mosque inhabited by nearly 15,000 people. In the 13th century, the sultanate of Kilwa, master of the gold trade, extracted from the Zimbabwean mines, fueling the greed of Europe… and the rest of the known world.
The ruins of Husuni Kubwa, the fortified palace in Kilwa, Tanzania
A highly coveted land
In 1498, when they were thinking of traveling the route to India, the Portuguese colonists landed in Africa where they developed and made the slave market prosper for nearly two centuries. The Portuguese explorers will have a strong influence until the 18th century, when the local populations rebel. Later, groups of Sudanese herders migrate to southern Africa , they are defined as the ancestors of the Maasai.
At the time of the great discoveries, Vasco da Gama bends over the lands of East Africa and its city-states. Some, like those of Kilwa or the archaeological site of Kaole, still allow you to admire the mosques and palaces of the Middle Ages.
From 1840 to 1860, Tanzania saw the first Christian missionaries land. Their first mission was to evangelize redeemed slaves or former slaves. The first British settlers arrived in 1856. We owe them the discovery of Lake Victoria (John Speke named Lake Victoria in honor of his queen and David Livingstone) and Lake Tanganyika, but not only. In 1873 under their pressure, the Sultan of Zanzibar had to pronounce a treaty for the abolition of slavery: the markets would be prohibited on the island and then on the whole continent.
It was also during these decades that many religious buildings were erected, such as the Anglican Cathedral in Zanzibar or the Saint Joseph Cathedral in Dar es Salaam.
Stone Town Anglican Cathedral – Zanzibar, Tanzania, Africa
Independence of Tanzania: Who colonized the country?
From the 7th century Europe and Tanzania create strong relations reinforced after the voyages of Vasco de Gama. From the 17th century, the Sultanate of Oman controlled the local populations, it was during the 19th century that countries such as France, Germany and Great Britain sought to covet the natural resources of the country and extend their areas of influences which will be under German domination until 1919 then the British will dominate the country after the German defeat of the First World War.
It was not until 1953 that Julius Nyerere, head of the TANU party, asked for independence from the United Kingdom, which granted it unconditionally in December 1961. Despite a two-year war with Uganda in 1978, Tanzania has kept its land and can be visited as much for its eventful history as for its ancestral traditions. Today one can find in Arusha or in the capital of the small reconstituted villages which revive the ways of life of the old Tanzanian populations.
Tanzanian geography, the different reliefs of Tanzania
From the coast, Tanzania forms an extended plateau up to Lakes Malawi dominated by the Livingstone and Tanganyika mountains of about 1000 meters in altitude.
The Great Rift Valley, which includes Lakes Natron, Eyasi and Manyara, separates the northern mountain range, dominated by Kilimanjaro, near the Kenyan border.
The Great Rift Valley – credits: Jean Paul Berger
There are 4 major landforms on Tanzanian territory:
1.The Tanzanian coast
Located on the east coast of Africa, Tanzania is bordered by the Indian Ocean, bordered to the west by Burundi, Rwanda and to the north by Kenya. The oceanic frontage of East Africa, from the coasts of Somalia in the north, to those of Mozambique in the south stretch over more than 2000 kilometres, spread over four countries, Somalia, Kenya, Tanzania and Mozambique. Tanzania's hottest and most humid region, Tanzania's South East Coast includes Tanzania's largest city Dar es Salaam and the country's mainland Indian Ocean coastline.
Tanzania's coastal development is interesting for its quaternary marine formations such as ancient coral reefs, which are found at various altitudes, and up to 120 m above present sea level, in the Dar region. -es-Salam. Its geological map represents a series of beaches (raised beaches) of coral formations resulting from two cycles of coastal sedimentation. ( study of the coastal quaternary Tanzania – René Battistini )
Dar es Salaam, a port within the city
Founded in 1862, Dar es Salaam (دار السلام "Haven of peace" in Arabic) on the site of the village of Mzizima, the origins of the city were largely influenced by the sultans, the Germans and the British. Bordered to the east by the Indian Ocean, it was initially just a fishing village. Today, the city has become one of the largest cities in the Tanzanian country and one of the most important port and commercial centers in East Africa. Revealing an atmosphere and influences from Africa, the Muslim world and South Asia, Dar Es Salaam offers a picturesque port, beaches, markets and an interesting historical heritage.
Safari and trip Tanzania – Dar es Salaam: city tour to discover local life
Dar Es Salaam is often only a stopover on the way to Zanzibar and a departure for a safari circuit to the north during a trip to Tanzania. But the cosmopolitan city reveals charming trappings on a stroll through the city center. The African atmosphere, its Kariakoo market and its colonial architecture and its Swahili culture attract visitors. Dar Es Salaam is also a good starting point to visit neighboring sites such as Bagamoyo, Bongoyo and the Mbudja Islands and to indulge in deep sea diving. Also note that most international humanitarian organizations are based in Dar es Salaam .
Indian Ocean coastal beaches
What could be better than ending your safari tour in southern Africa by enjoying the beautiful seaside resorts of Tanzania on the Indian Ocean coast. Spaces of white sand, crystal clear water and the intense wealth of aquatic fauna with multicolored corals invite travelers to unique moments of beauty and leisure.
South of Dar Es Salaam, the coastline is still rather wild and green. Most beaches are easily accessible by car. Kigamboni beach is a long white sand beach lined with dense vegetation.
North of the Tanzanian coast: Sange and Ushungo beaches
Located north of the coast between the town of Pangani and the Saadani National Park, Sange beach is an ideal place for those seeking tranquility. You will enjoy real moments of relaxation on these white sandbanks and swimming in the warm waters of the Indian Ocean. You will also be able to see schools of dolphins very closely.
Sange Beach – the best beaches in Tanzania
The beaches of the Zanzibar archipelago
The beautiful beaches of Zanzibar are the most popular with tourists and kitesurfers like those of Jambiani, Nungwi, Kwenda or Paje. The turquoise water with multiple varieties of fish and coral reefs seduce all diving enthusiasts.
Jambiani beach: lagoon offering a great wealth of marine fauna where fishermen and seaweed farmers share the territory
The well-preserved Matemwe Beach is located north of Unguja, the main island of Zanzibar. It is also the starting point for excursions to Mnemba.
2. Central Tanzania: varieties of safari landscapes
The plateaus of central Tanzania present a natural and very diversified panorama as well as the climates. Plains and arable land, arid Masai steppe, African savannah (bush) with plantations of acacias, palm trees and baobabs. Central Tanzania offers a hot and humid climate with the island of Zanzibar located just offshore.
Extraordinary national parks
National park of Serengeti, Tanzania – Photo by Thomas Huston
Tanzania has about fifteen national parks which shelter a very rich and wonderful fauna and flora to discover absolutely during your safaris in Tanzania. This is the whole attraction of a trip to southern Africa. Think of the national parks of central Tanzania to book a safari, there is something for everyone: safaris with luxurious accommodation in lodges in the heart of parks and natural reserves, a day safari tour with a Massai guide in a 4X4 or in hiking or trekking form with the ascent of Mount Kilimanjaro.
Do not miss the Serengeti National Park, for your northern safaris. The Selous Reserve and Ruaha National Park are also references.
Head to Gombe Stream National Park in the northwest of the country on the shores of Lake Tanganyika to watch chimpanzees dancing on their vines
Take on Mount Meru and the Usambara Mountains with their beautiful panoramas. The hiking circuits are suitable for all levels.
The +: National parks and nature reserves in Tanzania are crossed by many rivers where animals like elephants like to drink. The tracks are practicable three quarters of the time. Moreover, the national parks in Tanzania are less frequented than the large Kenyan reserves.
3. The Ngorongoro volcanic region in the North
It is in the northern region of Tanzania in the mountainous region of Arusha, a vast protected area that one can see the remains of the Ngorongoro crater at an altitude of 2500 m which is considered an earthly paradise, a kind of Noah's ark equatorial. Indeed, the climatic conditions of altitude in this place are exceptional for the animals.
Makat Lake and Notron Lake
In the center of the crater, Lake Makat is conditioned by violent storms and rainfall which has however become increasingly rare in recent years. When the rains are heavy, these masses of water poured into the basin flood the land, a providence for the survival of the animals. The buffaloes immerse themselves in the mud, the hippopotamus accompany them but rather to bask. At night, the lake is taken over by flamingos to protect themselves from eagle predation.
Lake Natron, paradise for flamingos
Another natural curiosity located in the north of Tanzania, Lake Natron offers an even different and quite disturbing spectacle. This body of water is reddish in color given by natron, a mineral composed of baking soda and sodium soda which is present in large quantities. The water reaches a temperature of 60 degrees. . The alkalinity of the lake can reach a pH level above 12. Lake Natron is devoid of all animal life apart from some endemic birds and the flamingos which have chosen this place to mother!
For the latter, Lake Natron is therefore a good barrier against predators trying to reach the nests. Indeed, nearly two million flamingos come to lay their eggs for hatching in September and April.
The Olmoti crater in Ngorongoro
At a height of 3380 meters, the Olmoti crater, a hiker's paradise, is one of the best preserved jewels of the Ngorongoro crater. Formed more than ten million years ago, Olmoti dominates the green and wet slopes of the crater today at rest under its layer of snow. Like him, other volcanoes (Oldeani, Sadiman, Lemagrut, Empakaal, etc.) were formed at the same time as Ngorongoro.
We understand that this lush environment attracts wildlife such as antelopes, elephants and buffaloes. On foot, in less than 30 minutes, hikers will enjoy panoramic views of this emerald green region and a glimpse of the Munge waterfall.
The Ngorongoro Virgin Forest
Subjected to violent rainfall coming from the south-east in this equatorial zone even in the dry season, the virgin forest of Ngorongoro sees mossy lichens trembling between the branches of immense tree trunks. The humidity retained by the trees during the rainy season restores it during the dry season, which explains why the animals find their subsistence throughout the year.
Ngorongoro Region Conservation Area – Tanzania safari
The rains during the dry season in Ngorongoro set the steppe ablaze, which reveals clouds of smoke that are reminiscent of volcanic eruptions. This conflagration rushes on the slopes of the caldera which is stopped by contrary winds.
The Serengeti National Park
The Serengeti National Park located in northern Tanzania is the largest game reserve in the world! it is the den of wild animals worthy of your wildest dreams which share its expanse of nearly 15,000 km2.
During your safari and tour in Tanzania, you will have the privilege of observing the phenomenon of the great migration, during which wildebeest migrate in herds to pastures and water points.
4. Western Tanzania
Northwest Tanzania is the Tanzanian part of the Great Lakes region with Lake Victoria and Lake Tanganyika, one of the longest freshwater lakes in the world (32,000 km², 675 km long and 50 km wide). ). This region of Tanzania enjoys a tropical wet and dry type of tropical climate.
The most beautiful natural parks are hidden in Western Tanzania
Less known than the Serengeti or Ngorongoro in northern Tanzania, during your safaris, you can discover several parks scattered in the west of the country such as Gombe Park, the second smallest on the list of fourteen in the country. . Nature reserves taken over by chimpanzees!
Gombe Park
A real natural gem for travelers looking for adventure, Gombe Park is only accessible by boat from the city of Kigoma. On foot, you will discover landscapes of great beauty between lakes and mountains. It is also a paradise for chimpanzees that roam freely, these are the families of hominids that the famous scientist Jane Godall has studied for years.
Tanzania travel circuit – tanzania map – Gombe National Park
Mahale Mountains National Park
170 km south of Kigoma, the fauna is important between chimpanzees, primates, lions, giraffes and elephants. These wild animals share the territory of the Mahale Mountains National Park, which is very difficult for humans to access. The paths to get there are very steep, you will have to climb along mountains and good shoes will not be enough to climb them. Only reserved for very experienced hikers and climbers! But the getaway is worth the detour, to you the most beautiful views and activities on Lake Tanganyika. You can swim and kayak.
Tanzania: Mahale Mountains National Park
Volcanoes in Tanzania
Land made of volcanoes, high peaks and large bodies of water already by its shores with the Indian Ocean, Tanzania has several dormant volcanoes but one of which is still active, it is Ol Doinyo Lengaï located in the heart of the Ngorongoro massif. The two highest peaks are the extinct volcano of Kilimanjaro at 5892m which dominates the glacier region and Meru at 4565m.
Ol Doinyo Lengai
Nicknamed the mountain of the gods for the Masais, Lengaï is unique in the world and constantly emits a dark and fluid magma incandescent at 590°, natrocarbonatite flows which whiten on contact with the humidity of the air, and draws on its sides a picture black and white. On a travel or safari circuit, a place to observe its black lava flows (several circuits are offered to achieve its ascent) it is also the perfect place to make unforgettable encounters, to get closer to an enriching people who knew how to preserve the traditions.
Ol Doinyo Lengaï, the Sacred Volcano – On the volcanoes of the world- adventurevolcanoes
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