Arriving in a new country after a long flight and heading out on a tour, maybe your idea of a tight-knit schedule, however we think it’s best to go slowly, to take the time to settle in before departing for the bush and here’s why.
More than likely you have had a long journey, cramped on a plane and arrived in a different time zone and a different climate. Probably you have been rushing to complete last minute work tasks, house / pet sitters arranged, travel plans done and you are in need of a rest! Therefore, we think the best way to get the most out of your trip to Tanzania, is to SLOW DOWN!
Spending a couple of days in the city of Arusha at the start of your trip is the perfect way to unwind and acclimatise before heading off on safari. There are some fantastic places to stay, to suit all tastes and budgets, including the central African Tulip Hotel, the very grand Gran Melia and homely bed and breakfast Baraka Lodge. If you want a more rural feel then Ngere Sero Mountain Lodge does not disappoint. From these comfortable bases there is plenty to do and see in a few days in this bustling, colourful city.
We like to show you what Tanzanian cities are all about in our Urban Safari, where you will experience local produce markets on a walking tour of the city centre, enjoy real Tanzanian cuisine in one of Arusha’s many eateries and stop off at The Coffee Lodge for a drink in the leafy green gardens. Here you can learn more about one of the most interesting social businesses happening in Arusha, Shanga, who employ people with disabilities and create amazing glass and metal jewellery and homewares; all made from recycled materials.
If you like shopping or want to take a few souvenirs home, then Arusha is the place to be! Shanga have a beautiful shop, selling all of their glassware and jewellery and the Maasai Market is a treasure trove of crafts, jewellery, wooden sculpture, paintings and more. Tanzanite, a rare blue gem stone, is also available in Arusha and we will take you to the Tanzanite museum, where you can learn more about this iconic stone, which is rarer than diamonds, and have the opportunity to purchase a genuine, certified gem.
Taswira Africa Safaris supports the work of Umoja Tanzania, a youth development NGO focusing on education, life skills training and livelihoods for vulnerable teenagers. We recommend a visit to The Umoja Centre, where you will enjoy a tour, led by one of their graduates, observe some classes before enjoying a Tanzanian school dinner of perhaps ugali (maize meal) and beans with the students and staff. If you have the time, Umoja arranges (following strict child protection guidelines and with approval from the families) home visits to some of the students home communities so that you can have an insight into how Tanzanian people live.
With such great places to explore, and comfortable places to rest, why wouldn’t you spend a few days in Arusha? We think it is a perfect way to prepare for your onward adventure into the African bush!
