STITCHSATIONS

Tanzania is synonymous with the mighty Serengeti National Park, home to one of the world’s greatest land migrations comprising a melee of approximately two million blue wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles chasing the rains and greener pastures. Here’s why a Serengeti safari offers a regenerative escape in Africa.

The Serengeti Migration

As the transitional October month rolls around, the herbivores get antsy. Instinctually, they’re getting restless and ready to move southward in search of pastures for their lambs in the southern Ndutu plains of the Serengeti National Park, the intended destination of the summer season.

A wall of hooves and heels crashes across the Kenyan border from the Maasai Mara National Reserve into Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park.

The Mara River Crossing

These gutsy antelope, driven by raw intuition and burning thirst, run the gauntlet of crossing the Mara River and its tributaries to their seasonal pasturelands. In the shallows of the ribbons of water, giant Nile crocodiles lie in wait for their unsuspecting prey to put a hoof wrong.

Meanwhile, on the banks, there are stealthy, camouflaged big cats of the savannah flanking the riverine landscape. Lion, leopard, and cheetah shadow the vast column of hooves, horns, and hides, picking off the weak and injured. They, in turn, are followed closely by nature’s cleanup crew – jackals, hyenas, vultures, and marabou storks who make a meal out of slim pickings after the kingly predators have gorged themselves.

Life is characterised by alertness and seizing opportunities. Fascinating stories unfold in the margins of this remarkable ecosystem as on the main stage of the short grass savannah plains.

Serengeti Northern Safari Circuit

This typical scene unfolds in the northern circuit of Tanzania’s safari circuit: Serengeti National Park. Usually combined with Lake Manyara, Ngorongoro National Park, and Tarangire National Park. The latter park is best known for its dry-season migration, which sees many elephants.

Serengeti Southern Safari Circuit

A trail less trodden is the southern safari circuit featuring vast parks with more seclusion: Nyerere National Park (previously Selous National Park) is excellent for adventurous people keen on walking, camping, and boating.

Ruaha National Park is one of Tanzania’s most prominent conservation parks. The Great Ruaha River is essential for wildlife and is part of a hydroelectric power scheme. Access to rare encounters with chimpanzees and Tanzania’s endemic species are standout aspects of this seasonal circuit.

Entry Points and Extensions

Arusha or Kilimanjaro mark your entry point in the safari circuit. If you’re extending to include Zanzibar, you’d likely take a bush prop plane and connect in Dar es Salaam for your beach holiday.

You can combine a Great Migration safari with gorilla trekking in Rwanda in the Serengeti Grumeti Reserves. Several exceptional lodges and camps offer this experience, and for those seeking a minimal environmental impact, mobile camping close to nature is an excellent choice.

How Modern Travellers Define Luxury

Luxury is a personal experience, varying from one individual to another. For some, it might mean the finest linens and attentive service. By contrast, it signifies complete privacy and exclusivity for others, such as having an entire lodge or safari vehicle to oneself.

Embracing Regenerative Safaris

The concept of regenerative safaris is gaining popularity. Embraced by some luxury safari outfitters, giving back more than what you take when visiting a country is becoming a mainstream concept. An outstanding, impactful safari should satisfy conservation measures, preserve the local culture, care for the local community’s well-being, and ensure sound business practices and commercial prosperity.

Singita Grumeti

Singita Grumeti focuses on restoring and protecting the Serengeti ecosystem through the Grumeti Fund.

• Wildlife Conservation: Efforts to combat poaching and restore wildlife populations, including reintroducing critically endangered species like the Eastern Black Rhino
• Community Development: Programs that support local communities through education, healthcare, and sustainable agriculture
• Environmental Sustainability: Projects aimed at habitat restoration, such as controlling invasive species and managing wildfires

Cherero Camp

Cherero Camp, which operates in the Musabi Plains between Seronera and the Grumeti Reserves, contributes positively to the environment and the local community.

• Eco-friendly Design: Cherero Camp is built without permanent structures, ensuring a light environmental footprint
• Community Empowerment: The camp focuses on empowering women and creating community-based change, providing opportunities for local women to take on leadership roles
• Sustainable Tourism: Guests actively partake in experiences that inform them about the importance of conservation and sustainable practices during their stay

Nomad Safaris

Operating in the Serengeti National Park, integral to Nomad Safaris‘ purpose is creating positive impacts through their safaris.

• Community Support: Initiatives that provide medical outreach, education, and support for local suppliers
• Conservation Efforts: Focus on preserving wildlife and natural habitats through sustainable tourism practices
• Cultural Preservation: Engaging with local communities to protect and celebrate their cultural heritage

The Impact of Regenerative Safaris

These regenerative safaris offer unique opportunities to commune with nature while your tourism spending contributes to the Serengeti’s and its communities’ long-term health and sustainability.

Conscious Travel Choices

When visiting such a delicate ecosystem, it’s essential to consider the impact of your presence on the environment, local communities, the visitor economy, and wildlife.

Pointers for Achieving a Regenerative Travel Mindset

Here’s what to consider when you want to adopt a regenerative travel mindset. 

Minimum Three-Night Stay

To fully immerse yourself in the experience and minimise your environmental impact, consider staying for at least three nights. Doing so lets you appreciate the wildlife and contribute significantly to the local economy, minimising the housekeeping footprint.

For example, a short stay of one or two nights impacts the ecology more because of changing linen, washing, water, and energy costs instead of a changeover every three nights.

Minimise Economic Leakage

Consider your booking journey to ensure a higher percentage of your spending benefits local communities. Booking with an agent with a physical presence in Africa helps reduce economic leakage and supports sustainable development.

Give Responsibly

Engage with and contribute to the sustainability projects offered by the camp or safari outfit. Whether contributing financially, participating in conservation efforts, supporting community initiatives, or donating to local environmental programs, ensure you do so through the safari stakeholders’ vetted channels in line with their ethos.

Embrace Africa’s Wild Spirit

In the Serengeti, make every moment count on safari. In the vast expanse of the world’s great grassland plains lies an allegory for living a meaningful life rather than witnessing nature’s uncompromising stance first-hand. It is an epic produced by Mother Nature, and as the credits roll, the takeaway message is profound: make the most of every breath.

Your travel can have a positive impact, and it’s all about how you approach it. Let Rhino Africa plan your impactful journey to this remarkable continent. 

If Tanzania is commonly regarded as the visual triumph of East Africa, the Great Wildebeest Migration is the icing on this visual cake. It’s a naturally orchestrated show of over 2,000,000 animals across 1,000 kilometres over two countries, namely Tanzania and Kenya. Prepare to be thrilled by this incredible spectacle. Here’s everything you need to know about this bucket-list phenomenon…

When is the Best Time to Visit Tanzania?

One of the main reasons guests want to travel to Tanzania is to witness the Great Migration. And rightly so! However, bear in mind this is a journey and not a once-off event. Therefore, you need expert information on when and where to be to be able to fully experience the Great Migration in Tanzania.

How does this timing work? Well, the rains dictate the country’s seasons and wildlife numbers, offering unique experiences depending on when you choose to visit. Each season has its own charm and surprises waiting for you to discover. Here’s a quick overview of what to expect when visiting Tanzania throughout the different seasons.

Peak Season: June to August

Many guests flock to Tanzania in peak season – which typically falls between June and August – for a chance to witness vast herds of wildebeest and zebra traversing the northern Serengeti before eventually crossing the Grumeti River. What makes these crossings so spectacular is the drama that ensues as the animals try to avoid the jaws of crocodiles and other predators waiting to pounce.

Keep in mind that the peak season can differ slightly depending on the specific movements that year. This is also one of the busier seasons, so please remember that you have to book well in advance to ensure availability.

Green Season: November to March

Tanzania’s “green season”, between November and March, usually sees fewer visitors. While there’s a chance of highly dramatic thunderstorms, it’s a fantastic time for birdwatching as migratory species arrive in their thousands.

You’ll also see Great Migration herds in the southern and western parts of the Serengeti. With their newly born calves, however, these herds tend to be much more dispersed and less congregated than during the peak of the migration.

Seasons to Skip

The only time we don’t recommend visiting Tanzania is between April and May. This is the only time when heavy rains make it difficult to move in the wilderness. Furthermore, many camps close during this time as the roads can become impassable. But don’t worry, if you book with us, we’ll recommend the best times and destinations for the ultimate African holiday.

Want to know more about the Great Wildebeest Migration? Find out here.

When Should I Book My Tanzania Holiday?

If you’re hoping to schedule a safari during the peak season, we suggest booking at least 12 months in advance.  But if you’re interested in off-season travel, you can book six to eight months before.

Tanzanian holidays come in many forms and as experts, we can craft any holiday to suit travellers of all ages and interests. However, due to the high demand, they fill up fast, so make sure you plan and book early to secure your ideal trip. 

Before booking, however, it’s essential to consider what things you’d like to do in Tanzania. Maybe you’d like to include a trip to the beach, historical tours, or visit various nature reserves, for example? Your preferences will help us tailor your trip to your liking.

How Much Does a Great Migration Safari Cost?

The cost of a Great Migration safari in Tanzania really does depend on what time of the year you’ll be travelling. 

As a rough guide, prices start at around 1,000 USD per person per night during peak season. However, the cost can increase to around 3,500 USD per person per night.

We suggest talking to  one of our Travel Experts to tailor-make your perfect Tanzanian escape as the range of accommodation options and experiences run the gamut.

Where to Stay in Tanzania to See the Great Migration

Our Travel Experts have stayed at all the best luxury lodges in Tanzania and have first-hand experience of which ones offer the best Great Migration experiences. Here’s our hand-picked selection of the best lodges featuring spectacular designs, warm hospitality, and the most panoramic views on the planet.

1. Singita Sasakwa Lodge

Singita Sasakwa Lodge is one of our favourite accommodation spots in the Serengeti. Along with a front-row seat to the Great Migration, you can choose between an elegantly designed Manor House or one of the expansive cottages. Combining old-world sophistication with contemporary charm, Sasakwa Lodge creates a peaceful atmosphere with all the frills your heart could desire.

2. Mwiba Lodge

Overlooking a rocky gorge on the Arugusinyai River in the Southern Serengeti, Mwiba Lodge is set in between boulders and ancient trees. This private land overflows with stunning vegetation, wildlife and multiple freshwater springs. Here, you can feel like “the king of the castle” while enjoying your rest away from the busy world.

3. Grumeti Serengeti River Lodge

As the name suggests, you’ll find the Grumeti Serengeti River Lodge on the banks of the Grumeti River, which means you’ll see bloats of hippos and witness the passage of the Great Migration (if you visit at the right time). Few camps have such an ideal location! After a day of game drives and adventure, we recommend winding down with a sundowner on the spacious deck overlooking the activity in the river below.

4. Sayari Camp

Sayari Camp is a beautiful blend of grandeur and wilderness – a high-end lodge that keeps the wild surroundings at its core. Its ideal location near the Maasai Mara and Lamai Wedge makes this the perfect resting spot in between Great Migration safaris. While here, we recommend forgoing traditional indoor dining for a gorgeous dinner under the stars or a bush breakfast before heading out on your safari.

5. Namiri Plains

Located along the Ngare Nanyuki River in the eastern part of the Serengeti, Namiri Plains is a haven of lavish canvas tents with the highest level of service. The area is known for its “big cat” viewing opportunities, such as lion, cheetah, leopard, and sometimes the smaller serval and caracal. After a day of game viewing, head to the Soit Le Motonyi viewpoint for a sundowner.

6. Singita Faru Faru Lodge

With the Singita Grumeti Private Reserve as its backyard, Singita Faru Faru Lodge offers an exclusive retreat away from the busier alternatives. Along with traditional safaris led by expert field guides, you can take to the sky in a hot air balloon to explore the African bush from above – remember to bring your camera along for the ride!

Our Favourite Great Migration Tours in Tanzania

At Rhino Africa, we believe in personalising each and every experience. This means we don’t have set tours you have to choose from. Instead, we give you some sample Tanzania tours to get you dreaming. From there, we get to know you and your fellow travellers in order to curate something spectacular. 

For one of our favourite combinations, imagine going from the coffee plantations of Arusha to Great Migration meandering in the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater, before bringing the journey to an end on the mesmerising island of Zanzibar! Our Ngorongoro, Serengeti and Zanzibar Tour showcases the breathtaking wildlife and landscapes of Tanzania, all rolled into one unbelievable holiday.

Ready To Get This Show on the Road?

Our first-hand experience means we know the ins and outs of each lodge and can tailor-make the ideal safari for all occasions – whether you’re after a slow travel experience or celebrating your honeymoon. 

Contact us, and let one of our Travel Experts start planning your African safari today.

The Serengeti in northern Tanzania is one of Africa’s most spectacular national parks. The incredible density and variety of wildlife in this county-sized wildlife haven are second to none. While the Great Migration – with up to two million grazers on the move – rightly attracts most of the attention, you could still have the greatest luxury safari experience of your life if you miss it. But when is the best time to visit the Serengeti? Here’s a breakdown of the seasons and their effect on your game-viewing experience and the movements of the migratory herd.

January-February: The Short Dry Season

After the short rains of the previous two months, the southern Serengeti is blanketed in short green grass. Therefore, the Great Migration entourage settles here to feed and calve. Permanent residents of the southern plains also calve during this time, so you’ll see many newborns, from elephant calves, lion cubs, cheetah pups, wildebeest calves, zebra fouls and more.

Chances are good that you’ll see actual births in progress, followed by the wobbly first steps of many little ones. Of course, this also means that the circle of life is laid bare with intense predator activity. Lions, cheetahs, leopards, African wild dogs and hyenas pick off the young and old with relative ease. Most calving happens in February, making this month one of the best times to visit the Serengeti to experience the Great Migration and general game viewing.

While technically a dry season, you may still get rain showers during this time. All the better for cooling things off and keeping the visitor numbers lower than the peak dry season.

Weather

• Hot, humid with occasional heavy rainstorms

Safari highlights

March-May: The Longer Rainy Season

Starting from late March, you can expect daily thunderstorms and a slight drop in temperature after the pre-rain build-up. As a result, it can get quite hot and humid. Migratory birds arrive, and the Wildebeest Migration drifts west and northwards as the newborns build up their strength for their first adventure. Furthermore, this is also the start of the rutting season, with many species jostling for pole position.

General game viewing certainly doesn’t disappoint in the wet season. With most wildlife being territorial, you’ll still see plenty of lions, leopards, cheetahs and the Big 5 on the open plains, even in areas where the Great Migration is not around. The Serengeti’s temperate climate and flat plains allow for excellent general game viewing even during the rainy season. Driving conditions and daily plans may be a bit less predictable, but your safari gets all the more exciting because of it.

Some of the more remote and mobile safari lodges close for the long rains, but many remain open all year round, and visitor numbers are greatly reduced. The south receives about a third of the rainfall compared to the north of the Serengeti. A safari in the western and central corridor promises incredible migration sightings – without large tourist crowds. This alone could make the rain season the best time to visit the Serengeti for some.

Weather

• Warm to hot and humid with frequent heavy thunderstorms

Game viewing highlights

• Good general game viewing
• Migratory birds arrive, and it’s rutting season
• The Great Migration begins its northwestward trek, gaining pace as the young gain their strength

June-October: The Dry Winter Season

The rains usually taper off and disappear by June, ushering in prime safari season for the Serengeti. During this time, game viewing is at its best, with the dry grasslands making visibility even better, and you can see greater concentrations of wildlife at water sources. In addition, now is also the best time to explore the Ngorongoro Crater and relax on the sandy beaches of Zanzibar.

Cooler conditions mean fewer mosquitoes and other summertime critters, and the weather is generally very pleasant. Mornings are cold on the open plains in an open safari vehicle, so you’ll be grateful for any extra layers you’ve packed.

The Great Migration herd moves through the northern corridor of the Serengeti, bunching up before the crossings of the Grumeti River and Mara River. Around September and October, most of the herd has crossed over into Kenya’s Maasai Mara National Reserve. As a result of the excellent game-viewing conditions, exciting Migration river crossings, and comfortable weather conditions, the long dry season is widely considered the best time to visit the Serengeti.

Weather

• Warm, dry, clear days with cold nights and early mornings

Game viewing highlights

• General game viewing is excellent throughout the national park
• Thrilling river crossings near the border of Kenya
• Great time for a bush and beach holiday by combining safari in Serengeti with Zanzibar 

November-December: The Short Rainy Season

By early November, the rains arrive, delighting the parched land and its inhabitants. The downpours are short-lived and often at night, so they seldom interfere with your safari activities. Most of the safari lodges and camps remain open during these shorter rains.

The Great Migration concentrates along the eastern boundary of the Serengeti, aiming to arrive at the southern plains in time for calving season all over again.

Game viewing is still excellent throughout the national park, thanks to the high numbers of animals and good visibility across the savannah. Afternoon thunderstorms quickly clear up, leaving the crisp summer light above a lush expanse of the African wilderness. In other words, it’s a photographer’s dream.

Weather

• Hot, humid days with frequent short-lived thunderstorms

Game viewing highlights

• The Great Migration concentrates in the east
• Good game-viewing throughout the national park
• Spectacular thunderstorms and lush scenery

So, When is the Best Time to Visit the Serengeti?

The best time to visit the Serengeti depends on how important the Great Migration experience is to you. So, if it’s the main reason for visiting the Serengeti, head north to experience a river crossing towards the end of the dry season.

If it’s the best of both worlds you seek – a general safari and the migration – consider January and February when the migration takes a hiatus for calving season, and the game viewing and predator activity are at their peak.

The Serengeti National Park is a year-round safari destination for general game viewing. Short grasses on the vast open plains offer good sightings of lions, leopards and cheetahs, as well as hyenas, African wild dogs, crocodiles and many smaller predators. Large herbivores are fully represented with elephants, rhinos, giraffes, large antelopes, wildebeest (obviously!), zebras, hippos and a host of smaller antelope and plains game. Last but not least, birding is also excellent, with many migratory species and resident raptors.

Book Your Serengeti Safari Today

Ready to book your Serengeti safari with the World’s Leading Safari Company? Talk to one of our Travel Experts, who’ll help you plan your ultimate luxury safari experience. 

Our Travel Experts have slept in the beds, tasted the food, and know all the ins and outs of an African safari to make your holiday not only stress-free but memorable. And as the world’s most-awarded safari company, no one knows Africa like we do! Let’s start planning! 

The lesser-known but oh-so-wild and beautiful Nyerere National Park offers a phenomenal slice of wilderness heaven, with dramatic landscapes teeming with wildlife. Go deeper into nature than ever before with incredible trekking adventures through the bush, expertly guided game drives and water safaris along the Rufiji River. Oh, and did we mention it’s Africa’s largest game reserve? So, there are so many little nooks to explore. Follow in our footsteps as we show you where to go and what to do…

Welcome to Tanzania’s Largest National Park

The Nyerere National Park is massive. This conservation area is almost too large to fathom and over twice the size of the Serengeti, which makes for an incredible safari experience. 

Plus, as an up-and-coming tourist destination, Nyerere National Park is more affordable and less frequented than its northern Tanzania counterparts. As a bonus, you’re unlikely to have others interrupt your photo ops. No need for Photoshop later!

A defining feature of the national park is the Rufiji River, which flows through the northern part of the reserve. Smaller interconnected oxbow lakes, swamps, and channels branch out of the main river, making it the largest river in Tanzania. One of our personal favourite ways to explore this magnificent river is on a boat safari, where you can watch large floats of crocodiles and pods of hippos in the water while enjoying a refreshing sundowner.

From Selous Game Reserve to Nyerere National Park 

In 2019, the Government of Tanzania set new boundary lines within the existing Selous Game Reserve to create the Nyerere National Park. However, the wildlife are free to roam between the wilderness regions and while you’re on a safari here, you are too. 

Under the protection and management of the Tanzania National Parks Authority (TANAPA), this area is dedicated to photographic tourism and improved on-the-ground anti-poaching protection.

What Wildlife Can I See While on Safari in Nyerere National Park?

Relatively undisturbed by humans, the national park’s diverse vegetation accommodates a great amount of flora and fauna. While on a Nyerere National Park safari, you can see the Big 5, namely elephant, lion, leopard, rhino (although sightings of black rhino are rare), and African buffalo. You can also see impressive concentrations of other predators like cheetah, spotted hyena and endangered African wild dog in action as they stalk their prey. 

Because of Nyerere National Park’s size, there are plenty of opportunities to witness phenomenal wildlife moments – and not just those on land… The national park is home to over 450 species of birds, including species like the giant kingfisher, pink-backed pelicans, yellow-billed stork, Malagasy squacco heron, white-fronted bee-eaters, African skimmers, ibises, purple-crested turaco, and so many more. 

Furthermore, a Rufiji River boat safari offers the vantage point of spotting crocodiles, hippos, and Nile monitors bathing on the banks. 

What Activities Can I Do in Nyerere National Park?

Game viewing is definitely your main priority on a Nyerere National Park safari. After a day of traversing the various landscapes by vehicle, you could spend the next morning getting even more immersed in nature on foot by going on a walking safari.

You can also book a hot-air balloon safari to spot the wildlife from above while enjoying panoramic views of the national park, or a boat safari to capture the wildlife and plants closer to the waterway.  

With hills, plains, dry riverbeds, marshes and even a hot spring to explore, every day on your safari will be new and exciting. And, if you’re after a longer overnight trekking experience, Nyerere National Park has that, too. 

Where Should I Stay in Nyerere National Park?

We recommend the glamping tents at Siwandu Camp for an unforgettable stay. Embedded in a grove of palm trees along Lake Nzerakera (just off the Rufiji River), this camp is the prime home base for your safari adventures. The strategic location and thoughtful layout ensure that you can observe wildlife from the privacy of your verandah, a truly exclusive experience. 

Here, you can look forward to delicious meals blending international flavours with African traditions. And for a truly al fresco dining experience, you can opt to eat out in the Tanzanian bush.

Siwandu Camp specialises in creating intimate experiences for visitors. So, you’re in for a treat with access to your own entertainment, bar, and dining areas, plus a swimming pool and jetty boat. And our favourite, the pièce de résistance – an open-air shower! With no city lights around, Siwandu Camp is also the perfect place for stargazing.

When is the Best Time to Visit Nyerere National Park?

If you want to get the best game viewing experience, the best time to visit Nyerere National Park is from mid June to October. As this is the dry season, vegetation has thinned out and it’s much easier to spot the wildlife, and you’ll find them gathering at the few remaining waterholes and river shores. 

However, don’t dismiss the other seasons entirely! Each one has its own charm, and our Travel Experts will advise you on the best places to go at a time you can travel.

Come Along to Nyerere National Park

For wildlife connoisseurs and safari enthusiasts, Nyerere National Park awaits! Our Travel Experts love this quieter, lesser-known national park, and we’re sure you will, too. Plus, we know all the best spots around, so we can recommend more destinations that will perfectly complement your trip.

Reach out today, and let’s start planning your Nyerere National Park safari. 

Popular first-time destinations in Africa include the triple threat: South Africa, Tanzania, and Kenya. Based on decades-long relationships, Africa enjoys a viable tourism infrastructure and a mature marketing presence; it’s embossed upon the hearts and minds of long-haul travel consumers and the travel trade. Whether travellers wish to explore Africa on a shoestring or in six-star luxury, the continent offers travel products of enviable diversity. We unpack why you should plan a return trip to Africa.

The Power of In-Person Gatherings

Ahead of this year’s Africa’s Travel Indaba (Indaba), South Africa’s Tourism Minister, Patricia de Lille, led the discussion at the Business Opportunity Networking Day (BONDay) agenda on May 13th, 2024, around creating an environment enabling tourism through improved air connectivity and visa waiver programs.

Indaba is a long-standing travel exhibition that draws African specialists worldwide, showcasing many Africa-based travel products. A roaring success this year, the event drew policymakers and politicians from various African countries to put their heads together, fostering stronger ties for a brighter future for the continent and her people.

Repeat Travel Fosters Deeper Connections         

Beyond the trodden trails and Big 5 tick lists lies a life-long love affair waiting to unfold. Visiting one country, maybe two, the first visit barely scratches the surface of the continent’s incredible offering. Here is a list of a few solid reasons to return.

Invigorating Variety

Try to resist the temptation to cram too much into your (first) trip. Consider your carbon footprint when combining countries, and plan the path with the most negligible impact when stitching your itinerary.

Carriers such as Kenya Airways have excellent links between eastern and southern Africa. As a result, you can easily fly into the fascinating Nairobi (Kenya), an entry point for visiting the Maasai Mara to Zambia‘s side of Victoria Falls for visits to natural wonders. And then from Victoria Falls to Cape Town, a consistent favourite with world travellers. And don’t forget that working with an experienced travel planner is a great idea to ensure seamless logistics.

Inspired Inclusivity

Destination management companies that do the right thing by incorporating diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) into their organisational strategies deserve a place in the sunshine of Africa’s tourism landscape. As conscious travellers drive demand and increasingly flex their buying muscles, choosing travel suppliers carefully with ever-more-discerning criteria, the impactful EU Green Directive is being finalised, with far-reaching effects for greenwashing culprits. 

Meanwhile, accessibility in tourism is gaining momentum. While the industry grapples with how best to serve this emerging sector, it’s vital to understand that accessibility means different things to different people, depending on their needs. For example, not all people with accessibility challenges use wheelchairs. Some are neurodivergent, whilst others may be visually impaired. The industry would benefit from a holistic view of this sector, which holds impressive repeat traveller value.

The key to engaging with this target market is understanding what’s required to exceed expectations. For example, June is Gay Pride Month, and Africa’s warm welcome embraces the LGBTQ+ community in South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, Mozambique, Rwanda and the Seychelles. 

Cultural Exchange

I grew up in South Africa and experienced first-hand the effects of apartheid. And then, as a teenager, I witnessed, with delight, the birth of my country’s beautiful democracy. Being a citizen of transformation has profoundly shaped my worldview. I’ve always believed that tourism has the power to change lives.

The soundtrack to life in Africa is vibrant, and her people are charismatic. She walks to her unique drumbeat. At times, she’d tuck me away in places of quiet solace where I’d smile inwardly, knowing that somewhere, somehow, something surprising was happening. Africa’s expansiveness, underscored by soulful connections, is all about the people you meet. 

Before visiting, you should challenge yourself by leaving your expectations at home and engaging fully with host communities, safari guides, tour guides, and travel providers. Such a pledge requires a paradigm shift, releasing the insatiable need to document every moment with a camera or smartphone. Instead, be in the moment and focus on the real magic – building relationships. 

Community Connections

Once you’ve travelled to Africa, you will be overwhelmed with an unbridled perspective. A heady mix of unfathomable challenges, boundless diversity and energetic richness, nowhere else emphasises the course of the human experience in such stark relief.  

South African James Fernie, a once-promising lawyer turned social entrepreneur who is now the CEO of Uthando (Love) South Africa and The HEART of Cape Town, says:

“Many challenges continue to besiege our country, yet the indomitable spirit of South Africans never fails to amaze. We show up, put a smile on our faces, and keep moving forward. The courage to do so comes from our hearts; we keep innovating, dreaming, and sharing hope and love where possible. From the Mother City to the world, the essence of The HEART of Cape Town movement shines a light on the singular sentiment that unites rather than divides humans: love.”

Uthando (Love) South Africa and The HEART of Cape Town movement inspire travel experiences that support meaningful change for highly vulnerable groups in Cape Town’s underserved communities, especially minority groups and the youth. James and his team connect conscious travellers with non-voyeuristic philanthropic excursions to some of Cape Town’s most inspiring grassroots community projects. 

“A daily ritual inspired the HEART of Cape Town movement that I want to see spread worldwide. Every morning, I put my hands on my heart. I have so much love for everyone; it doesn’t matter who they are, where they come from, or their nationality – people are people, and we all deserve to love and be loved. A heart sign is a tangible embodiment of kindness, empathy, and compassion.”  

James believes South Africans’ energy and resilience repeatedly drive visitors to return to South Africa.

“I recently met an American couple that has visited South Africa six times since 2001, They used the words ‘ascending’ to describe the feeling of South Africa. Imagine these hearts worldwide, posted on social media, held by people, basking in the glow – literally and figuratively – nation-building in action.

Worldwide, people can start making hearts and spreading the message of love and tolerance. And right now, our world is in desperate need of this message. At home, especially now, with our country’s national election this month, we can start to set people’s hearts ablaze with that one cornerstone emotion that we all need, regardless of our colour or creed: love.”

Pay it Forward Through Conscious Tourism Choices

Considering how local communities wish to engage with tourism prompts visitors and tourism agents to build relationships with stakeholders in a destination. It also discusses the vital role of women in communities and why it makes sense to support women-led businesses. 

Other factors contributing to return travel include enabling policies such as bilateral travel agreements, visa waivers, digital nomad visas and the pull of visiting friends and family. Beguiling Africa has the potential to capture the imagination of travellers for a lifetime. 

Ready to Plan Your Return Trip to Africa?

Whether it’s your first, second or even third time visiting Africa, our beautiful continent has plenty for you to experience. Contact Rhino Africa’s Travel Experts to start planning your tailor-made safari adventure.

Did you know Tanzania is home to the highest mountain (Mount Kilimanjaro) and Africa’s deepest lake (Lake Tanganyika)? It’s a country with stunning grasslands, savannahs, and unique lakes. In fact, it’s worth visiting just to explore Tanzania’s most beautiful lakes. Some are dramatic, whereas others are vast, blue, and tranquil. Take a journey with us to marvel at these miraculous bodies of water.

Tanzania’s Most Beautiful Lakes 

Take a tour around the most spellbinding bodies of water in Tanzania.

Lake Victoria

The majestic Lake Victoria is impressive. It’s the largest lake in Africa (roughly the size of Ireland) and covers around 60,000 square kilometres. If you’re lucky to fly over it, you would not think it’s a lake – instead, it looks like you’re flying over the ocean! And much like the ocean, you can see a wide range of stunning fish species here.

Located in a shared territory with Uganda and Kenya, Lake Victoria offers a unique opportunity to extend your Tanzania safari and explore other parts of Eastern Africa. If you choose to venture into Uganda, you can even visit the source of the Nile near Jinja. The possibilities for adventure and exploration are endless.

What Activities Can I Enjoy at Lake Victoria?

• Snorkelling, Diving and Fishing: Explore underwater to see the many multi-coloured fish and the Nile perch fish the area is known for
• Birding: Like cities have doves, Lake Victoria has pied kingfishers, and there are hundreds of them, plus other bird species, too!
• Swimming and Exploring: There are spots where you can dive and swim in the water and stroll along the shores of the many islands 

Lake Nyasa

Tanzania, Mozambique, and Malawi share Lake Nyasa, also known as Lake Malawi, which forms part of the rift through Africa. David Livingstone referred to it as the “Lake of Stars”, as the lights on the fishermen’s boats resembled the night sky.

It’s home to over 1,000 fish species, including rare and endemic cichlids, and boasts a vibrant ecosystem hosting various wildlife like turtles, baboons, monkeys, crocodiles, antelope, and hyrax, to name just a few. And, of course, tons of bird species, including fish eagles.

What Can I Do at Lake Nyasa Other Than Game Drives?

• Watersports: Enjoy activities like kayaking, water skiing, canoeing, boat rides, snorkelling and scuba diving
• Birdwatching: With so many species to see, don’t forget to pack your binoculars 
• Lounging on Islands: Explore all the other smaller islands in the area

Lake Natron

The scenery at Lake Natron is quite dramatic and unusual. Located close to an active volcano, Old Doinyo Lengai, the alkaline state is too toxic for most species to survive in. Because of the high concentration of sodium carbonate, animals that die here calcify.

Yet, it hosts the perfect conditions for lesser flamingos to be born here. Some records show that you can find 75% of the world’s population here, and it’s quite a spectacle to behold millions of lesser flamingos in this setting. The hues of the pink birds flow with the shades of orange and red algae in the lake. Lake Natron is close to the Ngorongoro Crater and Serengeti National Park, making it a convenient add-on to your safari. Our favourite highlights are sundowners and the traditional Maasai barbeque, which features songs and dances around the fire. 

What to Do at Lake Natron

• Birding: See the lesser flamingos at sunrise and sunset when temperatures are cooler, and spot 250 other species of birds 
• Mountain Biking: Experience nature more intensely with no barriers as you bike around the local area
• Hominid Footprints: Step into history and marvel at human footprints from 5,000-19,000 years ago

Lake Tanganyika

Lake Tanganyika is shared between Tanzania, Burundi, Zambia, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. This freshwater lake is the deepest in Africa and the second deepest in the word. Naturally, it is home to a variety of fish species (including cichlids), hippo, nile crocodiles, tons of wildlife, and bird species. As vibrant as the fauna is the flora. Some plant species can only be found here.

What Can I Do While Visiting Lake Tanganyika?

• Watersports: Go kayaking, canoeing, wakeboarding, skiing, snorkelling, and diving 
• Island Hopping: Go on a boat safari to see the many smaller islands dotted in the lake 
• Hiking and Chimpanzee Trekking: Get to know the land on foot 

Lake Manyara

Situated in Lake Manyara National Park, the area is adorned with woodlands, savannahs, and cliffs. Although Lake Manyara might be tiny compared to the above-mentioned lakes, it’s home to a high concentration of spectacular wildlife.

Our guests are usually excited to see flamingos, hippos, giraffes, zebras, leopards, lions, elephants, buffalo, and wildebeest. The dry months are ideal for game viewing, while the rainy season is perfect for birding. Furthermore, it’s close to Arusha, making it an easy add-on when exploring the Ngorongoro Crater and Serengeti National Park.

What to Do at Lake Manyara 

• Birding: In addition to flamingos, birding aficionados have spotted emerald cuckoos, crowned eagles, crowned hornbills, silvery-cheeked hornbills, and long-tailed fiscals
• Cultural Activities: Mto Wa Mbu is a town close to the gate of the national park that offers village tours
• Game Drives: Feel like you are behind the scenes of a nature documentary and gawk at the rich wildlife around the lake

Experience Tanzania’s Beauty

Many of our guests add Zanzibar to their itineraries to create the perfect bush and beach safari experience in Tanzania. Spend the first leg of the tour traversing Tanzania’s stunning landscapes, relax on Zanzibar’s beaches and sail on a traditional dhow afterwards.

The warm tropical waters are perfect for snorkelling and diving to explore undisturbed marine life and colourful coral reefs. Ready for your adventure? Contact our Travel Experts, and let’s start planning your next holiday.