karibuni TANZANIA! TANZANIA

Message from Hon. Shamsa S. Mwangunga, MP Minister of Natural Resources & Tourism, The United Republic of Tanzania

Dear Travel Agents,

In this special Tanzania supplement we want to take this opportunity to introduce you to a part of Tanzania few people know about, the gems of the South—Ruaha National Park, the Selous Game Reserve, Pangani, Tanga and Songea. Even if you have not yet been to Tanzania, most of you are familiar with some of our famous icons and World Heritage sites, Kilimanjaro, the tallest mountain in Africa, Serengeti National Park, famous for the great wildebeests migration, as well as the Ngorongoro Crater, which is often called the 8th Wonder of the World. But in the south, with fewer tourists, the experience is different, some say even more authentic. Ruaha National Park is HON. SHAMSA S. now the largest park in East Africa and the second largest MWANGUNGA, MP national park in all of Africa. The Selous Game Reserve is the largest in the world. Now, as the air connections between North and South expand with Coastal Aviation offering scheduled flights between the Serengeti and Ruaha National Parks starting June 2010, and as the choice of accommodation increase in the South, your clients can have a diversified safari experience all in one destination—Tanzania. Let us also not forget the opportunities for total relaxation on the miles of white sandy beaches along the Indian Ocean. Marine parks, water sports and world class diving sites are found off the shores of mainland Tanzania, its coastal islands like Mafia, as well as on the exotic spice islands of Zanzibar. The most frequently heard comment from first time visitors to Tanzania is “I came for the wildlife, but took home the memories of the warm hospitality of the people.” If culture is the focus for your clients, Tanzania has 125 different tribes, with their rich cultural traditions and languages, all living in harmony. Tanzania’s Cultural Tourism Program, Visit the People, which currently comprises 26 villages in the North, offers visitors a rare opportunity to meet the local people and participate in a diverse range of daily activities such as cooking, fishing and making handicrafts. We look forward to saying Karibuni Tanzania (welcome to Tanzania) to you and your clients. Hon. Shamsa S. Mwangunga

50 • MAY 2010 www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News TANZANIA Tanzania’s Treasures Reveal Gems in the South as Well as Its Famed North Agents should promote some Southern exposure when packaging this prized African destination.

anzania, the largest country in East Africa, is devoutly focused on wildlife conservation and sus- tainable tourism, with approxi- matelyT 28 percent of its land protected by the Government. It boasts 15 National Parks and 32 game reserves. It is the home of the tallest mountain in Africa—legendary Mt. Kilimanjaro; The Serengeti, named in October, 2006 as the New 7th Wonder of the World by USA Today and Good Morning America; the world- acclaimed Ngorongoro Crater, often called the 8th Wonder of the World; Olduvai Gorge, the cradle of mankind; the Selous, The exhilaration of a climb to the top of beautiful Kilimanjaro is unparalleled. the world’s largest game reserve; Ruaha, now the second largest National Park in Africa; the spice is- was accorded the status of a World Heritage Site and listed as lands of Zanzibar; and seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites. one of the International Biosphere Reserves by UNESCO’s Most important for visitors, the Tanzanian people are warm Man and Biosphere Reserve Program. and friendly, speak English (which, together with Kiswahili, are the two official languages); and, making the picture per- Kilimanjaro: ‘The Roof of Africa’ fect—the country is an oasis of peace and stability with a Kilimanjaro is the highest mountain in Africa. The ultimate democratically elected, stable government. in adventure travel, scaling the peak of Mount Kilimanjaro is a heavy challenge, more from the rigors of altitude than Treasures of the North the actual difficulty of the hike itself. The climb, which Tanzania is most famous for the splendid icons of what is takes on average five days, takes hikers through thick known as its Northern Circuit. Arusha, the Safari capital of forests and alpine grasslands, desolate rockface and brilliant Tanzania, is the jumping off point for travel in the North. white glaciers. International flights to Arusha fly into Kilimanjaro Airport, and most domestic and safari flights depart from Arusha Serengeti National Park Airport. Serengeti National Park is easily Tanzania’s largest and most famous park because of the annual animal migration of Ngorongoro Crater Area over one million and a half white-bearded wildebeest and ze- A visit to world-renowned Ngorongoro Crater is an integral bras; it has 5,700 square miles of protected area. Large prides part of any first-time Safari to Tanzania. But too often it’s of lions laze in the long grasses, plentiful families of ele- simply an overnight, with travelers just coming to see phants feed on acacia bark and trump to each other across the Ngorongoro Crater. In actual fact, this crater is one of eight, plains, and giraffes, gazelles, monkeys, eland, and the whole and many visitors miss the excitement and diversity of the en- range of African wildlife appears in awe-inspiring numbers. tire Ngorongoro Conservation Area. There is so much to ex- One of the highlights of the Serengeti National Park is the op- perience beyond the Ngorongoro Crater that travelers are en- portunity to take a hot-air balloon safari, organized by couraged to incorporate at least two- or three-night stays in Serengeti Balloon Safaris. The journey takes off flying low this area. over the plains—as the sun comes up and turns grasslands Ngorongoro Conservation Area is one of the world’s most from blue to gold. After landing, guests have a champagne unique ecosystems. It is the only conservation area where breakfast complete with crystal glasses and white linen table- man and wildlife coexist in harmony—one of the reasons it CONTINUED ON PAGE 52

Travel World News • www.travelworldnews.com MAY 2010 • 51 TANZANIA

TANZANIA FROM PAGE 51 cloths in the middle of the African bush, as zebra and ante- lope graze nearby.

Lake Manyara National Park Lake Manyara National Park offers varied ecosystems, in- credible bird life, and breathtaking views. It is a great place to spot Manyara’s legendary tree-climbing lions and impres- sively tusked elephants. Its groundwater forests, bush plains, baobob-strewn cliffs, and algae-streaked hot springs offer in- credible ecological variety in a small area, rich in wildlife and great numbers of birds. Canoeing excursions in Tanzania are an active option for the visitor with a few days to spend ex- ploring the northern lakes. Excursions on the shores of Lake Manyara involve canoeing past thousands of pink flamingos in its shallow waters.

Tarangire National Park Tarangire National Park has some of the highest population density of elephants anywhere in Tanzania, and its sparse vegetation, strewn with baobab and acacia trees, makes it a beautiful and special location. Pangani has some of the most spectacular unspoiled beaches in the country. In the Northeast—Off the Beaten Track Tanga Region Coming soon on the Tanzania tourist map: the Tanga region, just north of Dar es Salaam. Situated along the Indian Ocean, Tanga boasts sun-drenched beaches, beautiful vistas of the Usambaras Mountains, whispering rivers and lush green vegetation. Until recently, Tanga has not been part of the larger Tanzania tourism picture. However, the region is now more accessible than it was in the past—by tarmac road from Dar es Salaam, and by air and with speedboats from Dar es Salaam as well as Zanzibar. Four areas of Tanga are the current focus for tourism devel- opment. Tanga city is the capital of the region. Situated on the shores of the Indian Ocean, Tanga’s port is second after Dar The resource-rich habitat of Ruaha teems with wildlife like these buffalo herds. es Salaam. The city is rich in history, natural attractions, pe- riod architecture and interesting aquatic activities. South of Southern Circuit! The sheer vastness of southern Tanzania, Tanga City lies Pangani, a prominent trading center in the still undiscovered by many, makes for some spectacular game 19th century. Pangani has some of the most spectacular un- viewing and opportunities off the beaten track. Dar es spoiled beaches in the country, making it an excellent beach Salaam, the commercial capital of Tanzania, is the jumping holiday destination. To the further south is the little known off point for the South. Saadani National Park, offering the unique bush/beach expe- rience. Ruaha National Park To the West of Tanga and on the Eastern side of the Ruaha, which boasts 10,000 elephants, the largest popula- Usambaras mountains lies a beautiful hill station named tion of any East African national park, protects a vast tract of Amani. The flora and fauna and the tea plantations nestled in the rugged semi-arid bush country that characterizes central the slopes of these hills make Amani a serene and peaceful Tanzania. Its lifeblood is the Great Ruaha River that courses retreat for eco-friendly tourists. along the Eastern boundary of the park. A fine network of game-viewing roads follows the Great Ruaha and its seasonal Gems of the South tributaries, where, during the dry season, impala, waterbuck Travelers must come and discover the wonders of Tanzania’s CONTINUED ON PAGE 54

52 • MAY 2010 www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News Tanzania National Parks

More than conventional game viewing

anzania conserves more than the world, it is home to over 350 Mount Kilimanjaro and Arusha’s At the present time, night game drives 25% of its land, and is home to species of plants including 45 Mount Meru obviously offer the are only allowed in Lake Manyara. Tan estimated 20% of Africa’s varieties of orchid. Rubondo Island ultimate in mountain climbing but large mammals, so its game viewing also boasts some 40 different types lesser peaks in Kitulo and Udzungwa is widely regarded as the best in of orchid while all other parks feature provide less challenging but equally Africa. But the 15 parks managed by their own unique floral display. interesting climbing and trekking. Tanzania National Parks offer a lot Gombe and Mahale Mountains vie Boat trips, fishing, swimming and more the than just exceptional game with each other as the best place in snorkelling are possible in Gombe, viewing. the world to track wild chimpanzees. Mahale, Rubondo Island and Bird watching is outstanding at all 15 Gombe’s chimpanzees being made Saadani while canoeing safaris are parks but the Serengeti, with over famous by the pioneering work of popular on Arusha’s Momela Lakes, 500 species recorded; Mkomazi and Jane Goodall who, in 1960, founded on Lake Manyara and around Ruaha with more than 450; and Lake her famous behavioural research Rubondo Island. Manyara, Mikumi and Udzungwa program. Chimpanzees may also be Not a conventional game viewing For further information contact: with over 400 are closely followed by seen at Rubondo Island where they destination, Udzungwa is a magnet The Director General Kitulo and Rubondo Island. were introduced in 1966 and have for hikers. Other parks with excellent Tanzania National Parks Tanzania’s 15 parks are also a now become habituated. trails are Kitulo, Mkomazi, Ruaha PO Box 3134, Arusha, Tanzania paradise for flower lovers. Locals Hot Air Ballooning is currently only and, of course Kilimanjaro while Tel: +255 27 250 3471 refer to Kitulo as ‘The Garden of available in the Serengeti but there walking safaris are offered in Arusha, Fax: +255 27 250 8216 God’ while botanists have dubbed it are plans to offer this unique and Katavi, Kilimanjaro, Kitulo, Lake E-mail: [email protected] the ‘Serengeti of Flowers’. Host to wonderful experience in Mikumi, Manyara, Mikumi, Mkomazi, Ruaha, [email protected] one of the great floral spectacles of Tarangire and Ruaha. Rubondo Island, Saadani and Tarangire. www.tanzaniaparks.com TANZANIA TANZANIA FROM PAGE 52 and other antelopes risk lives for a sip of life-sustaining water. The risk is considerable—with prides of 20-plus lions lording over the savannah, the cheetahs that stalk the open grassland and the leopards that lurk in tangled riverside thickets. Ruaha is also home to over 450 bird species and now includes the Ihefu Wetland, the natural water reservoir for the Great Ruaha River.

The Selous Game Reserve The Selous Game Reserve is Africa’s largest game reserve and covers more than five percent of Tanzania’s total area. Its rivers, hills and plains are home to roaming elephant popula- tions, the area’s famous wild dogs, and some of the last black rhino left in the region. Due to its natural diversity and un- The colorful, rich and varied landscape of the postcard-pretty touched state, the Selous Game Reserve was proclaimed a Saadani region. World Heritage Site in 1988 and today continues to live up to its esteemed status. The Selous offer tourists the added attrac- tions of boating safaris on the Rufiji River and walking safaris.

Katavi National Park Isolated, untrammeled and seldom visited, Katavi is a true wilderness, providing the few intrepid souls who make it there with a thrilling taste of Africa as it must have been a century ago. Tanzania’s third largest national park, it lies in the remote southwest of the country, within a truncated arm of the Rift Valley that terminates in the shallow, brooding ex- panse of Lake Rukwa.

Saadani National Park Saadani is where the beach meets the bush. Located on the Giraffes and many other huge beasts casually stroll the Serengeti. Indian Ocean beachfront, it is the only marine/bush national park in East Africa. The beach possesses all the attributes that ranges and the Rift Valley features; all of which the Tanzania make Tanzania’s tropical coastline and islands so popular Tourist Board (TTB) and the Tourism Division in the ministry with sun-worshippers. Yet it is also the one place where those of Natural Resources and Tourism have identified for devel- idle hours of sunbathing might be interrupted by an elephant opment and marketing. At the Chimala and Matamba escarp- strolling past, or a lion coming to drink at the nearby water- ments, a road with 52 rather sharp turns has been con- hole! About a three-hour drive from Dar es Salaam, it’s also a structed, and these hairpin bends offer a thrilling, panoramic popular day trip from the beach resorts scattered along and breathtaking drive as it snakes through six miles of spec- Tanzania’s northern coast. tacular waterfalls. Tanzania is a treasure-filled country apart from all the rest. Mbeya Region Its peace is real—quiet contentment in a land of magic where The city of Mbeya, near the Zambian border deep in the nature still reigns supreme. The awe plus thrills a trip to this southern highlands, is the major agricultural capital in the gorgeous and exciting destination brings should not be country’s southwest region. The Mbeya mountain range lies missed in one’s lifetime. to the north, and the Poroto range lies to the southeast. Lake Tanzania Tourist Board (TTB), Nyasa, which serves as a boundary for Tanzania and Malawi, www.tanzaniatouristboard.com; is among the leading tourist attractions in the southern high- Tanzania National Parks, www.tanzaniaparks.com; lands. The half-mile deep lake and shoreline offer pristine Ngorongoro Crater, www.ngorongorocrater.org; beaches for water sports and sunbathing. The lake is the third Zanzibar, www.zanzibartourism.net; largest body of water bordering Tanzania, over 300 miles long Tanzania Embassy, Washington, D.C., and 31 miles wide. From the Lake Nyasa Shores are the www.tanzaniaembassy-us.org; Tanzania Mission Uporoto Ranges, Kipengere and Livingstone mountain to the UN, New York City, www.tanzania-un.org

54 • MAY 2010 www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News

TANZANIA

TANZANIA SHOWCASED AT THE NEW YORK MBALI MBALI LODGES AND CAMPS TIMES TRAVEL SHOW ANNOUNCES EXPANSION WITH NEW SERENGETI SORORI Mbali Mbali Lodges and Camps, a family-owned circuit of safari properties in the some of the most remote and wild game areas across Tanzania, has announced that their newest lodge, Serengeti Sorori, will open this June. This latest lodge rounds out Mbali Mbali’s circuit by connecting the famed Serengeti National Park with the pristine, remote Western region of Tanzania. With the help of their flight partner Zantas Air, guests can now experience all Tanzania has to offer in one memorable circuit. “Over the past decade, we carefully selected the most ideal locations for our camps and lodges situated across Western Tanzania, and have specialized in operating in these in- credibly remote locations bringing travelers face-to-face with Africa’s most impressive wildlife,” explains Taki Lalji, Managing Director of Mbali Mbali Lodges and Camps. “Now we have the pleasure of rounding out our circuit with Serengeti Soroi. This new lodge, offering true luxury in the bush while remaining true to our roots of providing outstanding value and wildlife Dotti Kirk, of Dot.Away Travel, was the lucky winner of a safari trip for experiences.” two to Tanzania given away at the New York Times Travel Show. The Soroi Serengeti Lodge is set on a hill and built among rocks trip was presented by Nanuri Safaris. (From left) Bernard Murunya, overlooking the vast plains of Musabi. With great attention to Chief Conservator, NCAA, United Republic of Tanzania; Hon. Halima Mamuya, M.P., NCAA Board Director, United Republic of Tanzania; design, the lodge offers comfort and luxury while maintaining Dotti Kirk, Dot.Away Travel; Essau P. Pwelle, African Banjoist a uniquely African atmosphere and continued commitment Performer; John Benedict Malago, Managing Director, Nanuri Safari to value. Company Ltd. Each private tented chalet is elevated, built on wooden stilts and A 16-person strong tourism delegation from Tanzania partici- well spaced across the hill, giving guests breathtaking views of pated for the fourth consecutive year in the New York Times Travel Musabi. Show held recently at New York’s Jacob Javitz Center. The The Serengeti Soroi Camp can be accessed by scheduled daily highlights of the show were the two drawings for a Tanzania Safari, flights landing at the Seronera Airstrip, private charters or self- offered by Nanuri Safari Company and Asante Safaris. The two driven vehicles. lucky winners of trips for two to Tanzania were Dotti Kirk, Mbali Mbali Lodges and Camps, [email protected], Dot.Away Travel of Perryville, Maryland, and Sarosh G. Jacob of www.mbalimbali.com; Zantas Air, www.zantasair.com New York City. The Tanzania delegation to the New York Times Travel show was 2010 FIFA WORLD CUP—SOCCER AND led by the Honorable Halima Mamuya, MP, a board director of the THE BIG FIVE WITH CORDIAL TOURS Ngorongoro conservation Area Authority (NCAA) and included A great opportunity to visit Tanzania—the Land of Kilimanjaro, Mr. Bernard Murunya, Chief Conservator, Ngorongoro Crater Serengeti, Ngorongoro and Zanzibar during 2010 FIFA Area Authority (NCAA); Suleiman Saleh, Tanzania Embassy in World Cup, is now being offered by Cordial Tours and Travel Washington; Deogratias Malogo, , Tanzania Tourist Board Services Ltd. These two travel companies will join together to (TTB); Emmanuel Dioclese, Tanzania National Parks (TANAPA); present the big five of soccer and the big five of Tanzania within Ignas Gara, Kitavi National Park, TANAPA; Asantael Melita, the same day. NCAA; Karen Hoffman, Jane Thompson, Susan Brinnitzer, Crystal Travelers may choose one to four days of fantastic game Chan, and Annie Gordon, TTB USA; Gaudence Temu, Fortunata safaris at Serengeti and Ngorongoro, watching the big five of Temu, and Evelyne Gaudence, Equitanz Resort/Bongo Tours Tanzania, spend two days for beach leisure at Zanzibar, the Island & Safaris; John Benedict Malago, Nanuri Safari Company Ltd; of Species, or take at least five days climbing the roof of Africa, and Edwin Van Zwam, Moivaro Lodges and Tented Camp/ Kilimanjaro. Fumba Beach Lodge. More information about this fabulous opportunity is available Tanzania Tourist Board, www. tanzaniatouristboard.com; on the Cordial Tours website. New York Times Travel Show, www.nyttravelshow.com Cordial Tours, www.cordialtours.com

56 • MAY 2010 www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News TANZANIA RESOURCE DIRECTORY

CORDIAL TOURS AND TRAVEL SERVICES LTD

Connects the Northern to the Southern Parks EVERY DAY

North Bound Flights South Bound Flights Ruaha @ 10:00 hrs Mwanza @ 0830 hrs Game Safari, Camping, Tarangire @ 11:00 Grumeti @ 09:35 Arusha @11:30/12:30 Seronera @ 10:55 Cultural & Historic Expedition, Manyara @ 12:55 Manyara @ 11:50 Seronera @ 13:50 Arusha @ 12:00/13:30 Beach Holidays & Grumeti @ 15:30 Tarangire @ 14:00 hrs Mountain Climbing Mwanza @ 16:00 hrs Ruaha @ 1500 hrs And Ruaha National Park is connected to the West, to Selous, to Zanzibar and to the Coast with several flights a day [email protected] +255 787 232 747 [email protected] Email: [email protected] www.coastal.cc www.cordialtours.com www.easytravel.co.tz

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TANZANIA TOURISM DELEGATION WELCOMED between our two countries. We expect that this new service will AT NY SKAL CLUB LUNCHEON boost the number of Turkish visitors by about 25,000. We also an-

TWN ticipate that this will be yet another gateway for the American mar- ket, who would be interested in combining these two very popular, but different destinations. “ Ihsan Baytan, Director, Turkish Airlines in New York, said that flights from New York’s JFK to Dar es Salaam will have good con- nections through Istanbul. He also added that Turkish Airlines in North America looks forward to working together with the Tanzania Tourist Board to promote packages to Tanzania with op- tional layovers in Istanbul. Tanzania Tourist Board, www.tanzaniatouristboard.com; Turkish Airlines, www.turkishairlines.com

UPCOMING SPECIAL EVENTS IN TANZANIA WORTH EXPERIENCING

(Left to right) Suleiman Saleh, Second Secretary, Tanzania Embassy in Washington DC; Jane Thompson, The Bradford Group; Ignas Gara, TANAPA; Hon. Halima Mamuya, M.P., NCAA Board Director; Juan Sepulveda, SKAL president; Bernard Murunya, Chief Conservator, NCAA; Karen Hoffman, The Bradford Group and TTB USA.

A Tanzania delegation, led by the Hon. Halima Mamuya, M.P, Board Director of Ngorongoro Conservation Area Authority (NCAA), were welcomed at a New York Skal Club luncheon in February by NY Skal president, Juan Sepulveda. The delegation, in addition to Hon. Mamuya, in New York City for the New York Times Travel Show, included Bernard Murunya, Chief Conservator, NCAA; Suleiman Saleh, Second Secretary, Tanzania Embassy in Washington DC; Ignas Gara, Chief Warden, Kitavi National Park, Tanzania National Parks (TANAPA), as well as Karen Hoffman (a Tanzania’s Karibu Travel and Tourism Fair, set for June 4–6, NY Skal member) and Jane Thompson, both of The Bradford 2010, is the largest and most ambitious travel industry event in Group, which represents the Tanzania Tourist Board in the U.S. East Africa. It is unique because it’s an outdoor event that offers a Skal International, an Association of Travel and Tourism real safari experience. Over 250 exhibitors and thousands of re- Professionals, was founded in 1934. Its mission is to promote gional and international visitors are expected to attend the fair, global tourism and friendships. Skal has chapters in most major which is open to the trade June 4, and to the public June 5–6. cities throughout the world. The organization has nearly 25,000 Travel industry suppliers, large and small, including tour operators, members. tourist boards, hoteliers, and support service representatives and Tanzania Tourist Board, www.tanzaniatouristboard.com; equipment manufacturers are typical participants. International New York Skal Club, www.nyskal.com travel trade journalists regularly cover the event along with local media, and “familiarization trips” are being offered to encourage TURKISH AIRLINES TO LAUNCH SERVICE TO international travel agents to attend. DAR ES SALAAM, TANZANIA, IN JUNE Movie buffs shouldn’t miss the Zanzibar International Film The Tanzania Tourist Board (TTB) has announced that Turkish Festival (ZIFF) July 10–18, 2010. This is an annual film festival Airlines will launch scheduled service from Istanbul to Dar es held in Zanzibar, Tanzania. There is nothing more exotic then Salaam, the commercial capital of Tanzania on the Indian Ocean watching a film on a balmy, Zanzibar evening in an outdoor Roman Coast. The Turkish Airlines flights to Dar es Salaam are expected amphitheater. It has been described as the largest cultural event in to begin June 2010 in time for the peak tourism season in Tanzania. East Africa. According to Mr. Amant Macha, TTB’s acting Managing Karibu Travel and Tourism Fair, www.karibufair.com; Director, “Tanzania applauds this move by Turkish Airlines and it Zanzibar International Film Festival (ZIFF), www.ziff.or.tz; is a good indicator of the passenger demand for tourism and trade Tanzania Tourist Board, www.tanzaniatouristboard.com

58 • MAY 2010 www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News TANZANIA Historic Songea Town in Tanzania Declared a Tourist Site elebrating 103 years since the end of the infamous Maji Maji rebellion, Songea town in the Ruvuma region has been declared a historical tourist site in the southern highlands of Tanzania. The sprawl- ingC business town was promoted to that status after the three- day festival in February organized jointly by the regional ad- ministration and the National Museum of Tanzania honoring the heroes hanged there in 1906. Activities for this special event also included the special launch of the Maji Maji Memorial Museum. Data preserved there will help Ruvuma Region to continue to attract tourists and assist government revenue. It will be the only museum The annual Maji Maji festival in Songea now on the tourism circuit. in the region showing the original tools and weapons used by the Ngoni and Matengo warriors during the Maji Maji war. ble to criticism and rage from the population. And using reg- It stands at the place where they were buried in a mass grave ular villagers with other things to do to produce cotton was behind the building. extremely unpopular across Tanzania. In many places they The Maji Maji rebellion came about as a result of local tribes simply refused to work the land, or refused payment. These in the southeastern part of the country (notably the Matumbi, unpopular policies had serious effects on the lives of Africans. Yao, Ngoni and Mwera) rejecting German colonial occupa- The social fabric of society and men’s and women’s roles tion of this part of Africa at the turn of the 19th century. The had to change to face the needs of the communities. Since Germans who took control of a large chunk of land in what is men were forced away from their homes to work, women had present-day Tanzania, Rwanda and Burundi, ruled with an to assume some traditional male roles. In addition, the fact iron fist. Each year on February 27, the Ngoni people in that men were away strained the resources of the village and Ruvuma commemorate the freedom fighters that resisted the the peoples’ ability to deal with their environment and remain occupiers of then-Tanganyika in early 1906. self-sufficient. These effects created a lot of animosity against The rebellion was actually an uprising by several African the government at this period. Adding to the hardship, in tribes in German East Africa against the German colonial 1905 a drought threatened the region. This, combined with rulers, in addition to the hardships caused by the rinderpest opposition to the government’s agricultural and labor poli- famine that spread through Africa in the 1890s and other cies, led to open rebellion against the Germans in July. deprivations. As a result of the scramble for Africa among The natives turned to magic to drive out the German colo- major European powers in the 1880s, Germany had ended up nizers and used it as a unifying force in the rebellion. A spirit with several colonies on the “Dark Continent.” These were medium named Kinjikitile Ngwale claimed to be possessed German East Africa (now Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi, and by a snake spirit called Hongo. Ngwale began calling himself part of Mozambique), German Southwest Africa (present-day Bokero and developed a belief that the people of German East Namibia), Cameroon, and Togoland (today split between Africa had been called upon to eliminate the colonizers. Ghana and Togo). German anthropologists recorded that he gave his followers The occupiers had a relatively weak hold on German East war medicine that would turn German bullets into water. This Africa, but they did maintain a system of forts throughout the “war medicine” was in fact water (maji in Swahili) mixed interior of the territory and were able to exert some control with castor oil and millet seeds. Empowered with this new liq- over it. Since their hold on the colony was weak, they resorted uid, Bokero’s followers began what would become known as to using violently repressive tactics to control the population. the Maji Maji Rebellion. They began levying head taxes in 1898, and relied heavily on Besides the Maji Maji warriors’ hanging place, the Ruvuma forced labor to build roads and accomplish various other region of today is identified by rich tourist attractions—cul- tasks. tural heritage, historical sites and scenery, among them the In 1902 the governor also ordered villages to grow cotton as Matongo Forest Reserve, Luhira Game Reserve, and the a cash crop. Each village was charged with producing a com- German Boma originally built in Songea in 1902. mon plot. The headmen of the village were left in charge of Tanzania Tourist Board (TTB), [email protected], overseeing the production, a position that left them vulnera- www.tanzaniatouristboard.com

Travel World News • www.travelworldnews.com MAY 2010 • 59 TANZANIA

OMONG’WE TRAVEL & TOURS a Tanzania Safari to include both Northern and Southern Circuits, PROMOTING PANGANI ensuring a fuller, more diverse travel experience. The Serengeti National Park, named the new Seventh Wonder of the World and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is host to the largest and longest overland animal migration in the world. Since it is a world-renowned icon, and adjacent to the Ngorongoro Crater, it is the most popular and most traveled destination on the safari circuit. Ruaha, the second largest National Park in Africa, is one of Tanzania’s “undiscovered jewels,” receiving far fewer visitors than Parks in the North, yet providing a totally different and richer Safari. Amant Macha, Marketing Director, Tanzania Tourist Board said “Until recently, most first-time visitors only had time to see Tanzania’s famous icons in the North, Kilimanjaro, Serengeti, Lake Manyara, and Tarangire. Now, as flight service improves between the North and South, the visitor can also discover in the same visit, the excitement and beauty of the South—Ruaha, the Selous, When tourists plan to travel to Tanzania, most of the time places Mikumi, Kitulo.” like Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Kilimanjaro and Zanzibar top their For Coastal’s Arusha to Ruaha flight, the aircraft takes off at lists. These famous destinations are all known for their beauty and 1:30 pm. This gives plenty of time for guests to land in Arusha be- natural wonders. However, there have been other new destinations fore transferring to Ruaha flying via Tarangire. The flight arrives in Tanzania that cater to various niche markets. One of these is in Arusha at approximately 4 pm, depending on stops Pangani. (Tarangire/Dodoma). The return flight departs Ruaha at 9:30 am Pangani lies about 28 miles south of Tanga. It is a historic town and arrives in Arusha around noon, depending on stops. It connects that was the center of an armed movement to resist German colo- to Serengeti at 12:30 pm. nial conquest of the entire mainland Tanzanian coast in 1888. The complete list of destinations in the South is: Tanga, Pemba, Pangani also became a center for smuggling slaves across the nar- Zanzibar, Mafia, Songo Songo, Kilwa, Selous, Ruaha and Dar es row channel to Pemba after Sultan of Zanzibar signed treaties with Salaam. Great Britain outlawing the ocean-going trade in slaves in 1873. Coastal Travels Limited, www.coastal.cc; Tanzania Tourist Board, Apart from its historic sites, recently Pangani has become famous www.tanzaniatouristboard.com with tourists because of its tropical, unspoiled nature. Coconut- fringed beaches have various eco-friendly lodges. Pangani offers ANTELOPE SAFARIS SHOWS OFF AFRICA many activities such as cultural tours, Pangani River cruises, water Antelope Safaris Limited, established in 1994, has offices in sports like diving, snorkeling, kayaking and a trip to Maziwe Tanzania’s business city of Dar es Salaam and in Arusha, the hub Island, one of the oldest marine reserve islands in Tanzania. The of safari activities. Services include air ticketing, car rentals, ac- Maziwe sand bar is home to protected coral reef, green turtles and commodations and city tours. They also organize photography, cul- spinner and bottlenose dolphins. Conditions are excellent for snor- tural, religious, nature and adventure eco-tours. keling and diving. Tanzania is famous for its game parks, to be sure, but the entire Omong’we Travel & Tours expertly arranges travel to Pangani and country displays vast and undisturbed natural wonder, and other famous travel destinations in Tanzania such as Serengeti, Antelope Safaris shows it all. Ngorongoro, Kilimanjaro and Zanzibar. They are able to customize The West is home to the chimps, and the magical beauty of Lake an end-to-end package that will include travel, accommodation and Victoria. In the north, the abundant, wild Serengeti, Tarangire, various activities according to individual travel desires and needs. Lake Manyara and Arusha national parks can be offset by a climb Omong’we Travel, [email protected], to snow-capped Mt. Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest mountain. Or www.omongwetravel.com Ngorongoro Crater, teaming with lions, cheetahs, leopards, zebras, rhinos and gazelles. Southern Circuit safaris are in Mikumi, COASTAL AVIATION RESCHEDULES Katavi, Ruaha and Africa’s largest reserve, the Selous. Flying to RUAHA/SERENGETI FLIGHTS the pristine beaches on the East Coast of Zanzibar makes a Coastal Travels Ltd. is bringing Northern and Southern Tanzania sparkling detour with its blue beaches, fresh seafood and exotic “closer” together. As of June 2010, they are rescheduling flights fruits. to connect Serengeti National Park in the North and Ruaha Antelope Safaris, [email protected], National Park in the South via Arusha. This will make it easier for www.antelopesafaris.com

60 • MAY 2010 www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News BOOK TANZANIA WITH THE FOLLOWING DESTINATION SPECIALISTS ABSOLUTE ADVENTURE TRAVEL * GOWAY 281 217 8111 / 713 807 9620 402010 [email protected] www.absoluteadventuretravel.com THE WAY TO GO FOR 40 YEARS www.goway.com

ADVENTURES IN AFRICA * INTERNATIONAL EXPEDITIONS 866 778 1089 800 633 4734 www.adventuresinafrica.com www.ietravel.com

THE AFRICA ADVENTURE COMPANY * JUNCTION AFRICA 800 882 9453 (877) 659-4653 www.africa-adventure.com www.junctionafrica.com

AFRICA DREAM SAFARIS * LION WORLD TOURS / SAA VACATIONS * 877 572 3274 800 387 2706 www.africadreamsafaris.com www.lionworldtravel.com

AFRICAN MECCA * MICATO SAFARIS * 866 527 4281 800 642 2861 email: [email protected] www.micato.com

AFRICAN TRAVEL INC. MOSAIC RHINO TOURS 818 507 7893 ext 115 951 353 2299 www.africantravelinc.com www.mosaicrhinotours.com

ASANTE SAFARIS * MY SERENGETI SAFARI 914 636 6017 888-50-SIMBA www.asantesafaris.com www.myserengetisafari.com

BORN FREE SAFARIS & TOURS * NATURAL MIGRATIONS 800 472 3274 866 988 7575 www.bornfreesafaris.com www.naturalmigrations.com

COX & KINGS * PRIVATE SAFARIS LTD 800 999 1758 Tel: 678 662 3210 www.coxandkingsusa.com http://www.privatesafaris.com

DEEPER AFRICA * ROTHSCHILD SAFARIS 888 658 7102 800 405 9463 www.deeperafrica.com http://www.rothschildsafaris.com

FRIENDLY PLANET TRAVEL, INC. SAFARI VENTURES * 800.555.5765, Ext # 2020 888 341 7771 www.friendlyplanet.com www.safariventures.com

FOX SAFARIS SOMAK HOLIDAYS USA 818 891 1973 877 40 SOMAK (east coast) http://www.foxsafaris.com/foxsafaris.php 800 75 SOMAK (west coast) email: [email protected], www.somak.com/usa G.A.P. ADVENTURES * 800 465 5600 TAUCK WORLD DISCOVERY * www.gapadventures.com 800 788 7885 www.tauck.com GO AHEAD TOURS 800 590 1170 THOMSON SAFARIS * www.goaheadtours.com 800 235 0289 www.thomsonsafaris.com GOOD EARTH TOURS & SAFARIS 877 265 9003 http://www.goodearthtours.com * Tanzania Tourist Board award-winning tour operators

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THE PLACE TO MEET IS TANZANIA’S KARIBU U.S., and we hope to encourage them to participate by offering spe- TRAVEL AND TOURISM FAIR cial pre- and post-safaris.” Karibu Travel and Tourism Fair, www.karibufair.com; Tanzania Tourist Board, www.tanzaniatouristboard.com

SOUTHERN SUN DAR ES SALAAM PROGRAMS REWARD FREQUENT GUESTS Southern Sun Dar es Salaam is superbly located: it borders the Botanical Gardens and the diplomatic offices of Dar es Salaam and is within walking distance of the central business district. Its 152 well-appointed guest rooms include two suites, 10 execu- tive rooms and one room equipped specifically for physically chal- lenged guests. The hotel offers corporate and business support ser- vices that include complimentary WiFi Internet access and conference capabilities, 24-hour room service, laundry/dry-clean- ing services and ample secure parking. Tanzania’s Karibu Travel and Tourism Fair is an outdoor event that offers participants a real safari experience. Frequent business travelers accumulate Sun Rands, the currency of Southern Sun’s award-winning Frequent Guest program, which Now in its 11th year, Tanzania’s Karibu Travel and Tourism Fair they may apply toward free holidays for themselves and their fami- is the largest and most ambitious travel industry event in East lies, in addition to other exclusive privileges. In addition, Frequent Africa. Guests receive a five-percent discount off SunBreaks rates and a As such, it has become “the place to meet,” for the region’s travel further five-percent discount when booking online with Southern industry partners from around the world. The 2010 Karibu Fair, Sun Hotels. taking place June 4–6 just outside of Arusha, Tanzania’s safari Known for its “best breakfast in town,” the Dar es Salaam hotel’s capital, promises to be the largest ever. The annual event is orga- Kivulini Restaurant overlooking swimming pool and Botanical nized by the Tanzania Association of Tour Operators (TATO), Gardens creates stir-fry and buffet lunches too. Or, guests may feast Tanzania Tourist Board (TTB) and the Ministry of Natural on the exotic fusion of Swahili and continental cuisine in the hotel’s Resources and Tourism (MNRT). Baraza Grill, Cafe & Bar. According to Amant Macha, TTB’s Acting Managing Director, Southern Sun Dar es Salaam, [email protected], “Tanzania is very proud that the Karibu Fair, what started as a www.southernsun.com modest initiative, has evolved into a major travel industry show- case for all the East African destinations.” ‘MORE THAN WELCOME PACKAGE’ AT Part of the uniqueness and excitement of The Karibu Travel and MÖVENPICK HOTELS IN AFRICA Tourism Fair is that it is an outdoor event that offers a real safari All across the African continent, travelers can benefit from a spe- experience. Over 250 exhibitors and thousands of regional and in- cial “You are more than welcome package” from Mövenpick Hotels ternational visitors are expected to attend the 2010 Fair, open to through June 30. This means they can stay at any Mövenpick hotel the trade June 4 and the public June 5 and 6. Travel industry sup- or resort in Egypt, Tanzania, Mauritius, Morocco or Tunisia and pliers, large and small, including tour operators, tourist boards, get best available rate, guaranteed late checkout and upgrade to hoteliers, and support service representatives and equipment man- Sea View or best available room. ufacturers are typical participants. International travel trade jour- In Dar es Salaam, Mövenpick’s Royal Palm Hotel combines East nalists regularly cover the event along with local media, and “fa- African culture and tradition with international standards. Free ac- miliarization trips” are being offered to encourage international cess to swimming pool, sauna and fitness center are included. An travel agents to attend. 18-hole golf course and tennis courts are nearby. James Haigh, Sales and Marketing Manager, Singita Grumeti Conference capabilities for up to 600 are state-of-the-art. Royal Reserves in Tanzania, in speaking about the Karibu Fair com- Palm’s 230 rooms include Executive Rooms with their own private mented “I go to the Karibu Fair because I have found that it is the Executive Lounge, Junior Suites, Diplomatic Suites and a one event where one can meet all the major players, buyers and sup- Presidential Suite. All have controllable air-conditioning, direct- pliers, in the East African tourism industry.” dial phone/voicemail, high-speed Internet, satellite TV, hairdryer, Macha added “Since America continues to be Tanzania’s num- safe, mini-bar and coffee-making facilities. A new “Interactive ber-one source market for tourists, we are making a special effort Television” system, unique for the East African region, offers a to attract more travel agents from the U.S. market. There are cur- whole range of in-room entertainment. rently over 1,400 qualified Tanzania Travel Agent Specialists in the Mövenpick Royal Palm Hotel, www.moevenpick-hotels.com

62 • MAY 2010 www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News TANZANIA

EQUITANZ RESORTS COMFORTABLY CARE FOR hensive transfers, hotel reservations, team-building activities and ITS VISITORS TO MAJESTIC AFRICA conference packages. Once-in-a-lifetime experiences are created for clients as they’re taken to explore and experience the wild through different national parks such as Kilimanjaro, Ngorongoro, Serengeti, Tarangire, Manyara, Ruaha, and Selous, as well as vis- its to the beautiful beaches in Zanzibar, Bagamoyo, Mafia, Pemba, Kilwa and other places depending on the client’s needs. Bongo Tours can also organize tours to any of the East African countries. Equipped with an excellent field driver and guides, Bongo goes the extra mile to explore the product, trying as much as possible to avoid the beaten tracks, and not just “scratching the surface” of those places shown. Clients become involved in the country, its culture, its people and its wildlife—giving them rewarding lifetime experiences. The style of Bongo’s safaris includes the use of quality lodges, Equitanz Resorts consists of two resorts: Afrikan Sunstar Resort tented camping adventures, biking, flying, and drive-in adventures. and Fortune Mountain Resort. Services range from standard to luxurious accommodation. Private Afrikan Sunstar Resort is located in Karatu-Arusha some four customized safaris are also available. Apart from comfort, special miles-plus from the Ngorongoro Conservation Area entrance gate. emphasis is put on safety and security of their clients at all times. Given its central location, African Sunstar Resort is perfect for An accomplished safari outfitter, Bongo Tours & Safaris wel- those visiting Tarangire, Lake Manyara National Parks or even en- comes opportunities to show clients around the great land of route to Serengeti or Lake Eyasi. It provides 10 cottages inclusive Kilimanjaro—The Roof of Africa, and the Spice Islands of of 20 clusters, with two doubles/twin each and three executive Zanzibar. suites, all with a magnificent view of massive Ngorongoro. Indeed, Tanzania is famed for its natural endowments, and Bongo All accommodation is very comfortable: exclusively furnished, Tours & Safaris likes to be remembered as ‘Master of The African with en-suite bathrooms, with a main building consisting of a lobby, Jungle’ because of its intimacy with the land. Bongo in Swahili restaurant, bar and an open-air terrace affording a lovely view means “brain,” and you cannot navigate your way through the of the famous African sunset. Guests can also relax at the highly competitive tourism industry without using ingenuity to un- swimming-pool facilities with poolside bar while they enjoy exotic derstand and satisfy the needs of clients. Hence, the name. cocktails, a well-chilled beer or other varieties of drinks from a Bongo Tours & Safaris, [email protected], fully-stocked bar. www.bongotours.com Fortune Mountain Resort is located in Marangu, only three miles to the Kilimanjaro National Park gates. It is ideal as a base before OWNERS OF MARA BUSHTOPS CAMP TO OPEN and after climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, cultural tours, also for ANOTHER IN SERENGETI those on vacation, honeymoon or weekend getaway. It offers 18 big Award-winning Mara Bushtops Camp in the Masai Mara game luxury rooms with en-suite bathrooms. Other facilities include a reserve is getting a sister in the Serengti National Park. Kibo Restaurant and Mawenzi Bar, Shira Lounge as well as a cus- The five-star Serengeti Bushtops Camp will open June 1, 2010— tomized porters party garden area to celebrate the success of in time for the great migration. The camp is located in the north- climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro. western part of the Serengeti, not far from the Mara River. The Equitanz Resorts, [email protected]. nearest airstrip is Kogatende. www.equitanzresorts.com There are 12 tents, each with a private decking of over 1,290 square feet with a unique sunken lounge and a hot tub. There is 24- IN-DEPTH EXPERIENCES IN AFRICA WITH hour power and butler service available. Dining is on a la carte BONGO TOURS & SAFARIS basis and is complimented by the camp’s wine cellar. Full-day and Bongo Tours & Safaris is a well-established tours and safaris half-day game drives are offered in open 4x4’s with experienced company based in Dar es Salaam but with operational offices in driver guides. Bush picnics, sundowners and walking safaris com- Arusha and Moshi, Tanzania. The company organizes tailor-made plete the experience. safaris ranging from photographic safaris, cultural tourism, bird- “Bushtops hopping” between the Mara and Serengeti is offered watching safaris as well as mountain climbing ones, for example via a flight link to/from Migori Airstrip with a border crossing at Mountain Kilimanjaro, Mount Meru and the hills of Ngorongoro Isabenia and a road transfer to/from Serengeti Bushtops. Conservation Area. Orion Hotels, [email protected], Services are also offered such as fixed-departure safaris, compre- www.orion-hotels.net

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