Tanzania Classics

For centuries, Tanzania has been home to the widest variety and quantity of wildlife and some of the most spectacular landscapes on the African continent. Tanzania's wildlife safaris have been a big draw to many international travellers, photographers and adventure seekers. Tanzania’s vast wilderness encompasses a great diversity of different kinds of habitats that include open savannah, riverine forests, grasslands, mountainous landscapes, meandering rivers, escarpments and gorgeous valleys. Each of these habours an exceptional range of animals, from the chimpanzees of the Mahale Mountains near Lake Tanganyika, the flamingoes and famous tree-climbing lions of Lake Manyara, the famed Big Cats of Central Serengeti to the crocodiles and hippo in the mighty Rufiji River in Selous. In Tanzania you will find some of the most exquisite safari camps and iconic safari lodges in Africa, all beautifully set in amazing locations providing awe-inspiring and endless views of the natural surroundings. Whichever region that you may want to discover in Tanzania from north to south, there will be something unique to explore and quench your curiosity. The Spice Island of Zanzibar on the east coast of Tanzania and the surrounding islands of Mafia and Pemba are renowned for the most stunning white sand beaches sun kissed by crystal clear waters of the Indian Ocean. Our handpicked collection of the best sun resorts in Zanzibar will enable you to rejuvenate, relax and fulfil your desires for that genuine beach experience.
For years, Africa Safari Classics has been welcoming visitors to Tanzania and showcasing the very best of this beautiful part of the African continent. With unmatched knowledge, meticulous planning coupled with experience gained over the years, our team of passionate Safari Consultants and Safari Guides will confidently get you to the front row of where it all happens.

WHAT DO OUR CLIENTS SAY ABOUT THIS EXPERIENCE?
My dad has always loved wildlife and nature, so when my wife and I decided to visit Kenya and Tanzania, we asked him and my mom to join us on a safari. After doing some research, we reached out to Africa Safari Classics to inquire about a private 10-day safari. Maurice responded within the same day and provided the best quote. The tour was to cover Lake Nakuru, Lake Bogoria, Maasai Mara, and Amboseli in Kenya, and Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Olduvai Gorge Museum, and Tarangire in Tanzania.

The first driver guide was Tony, who picked us up very early in Nairobi given that we had a lot to cover on our first day. With a stop added at Lake Naivasha for a boat tour, we didn't reach Lake Bogoria until late afternoon. Despite likely feeling quite tired already, Tony still asked if we would like to check out Lake Bogoria before checking into our hotel, which we said yes. This was very much appreciated, as it meant that the next day we were able to leave Lake Bogoria for Maasai Mara right away, and we still had time for an afternoon game drive when we got to the national reserve. We were off to a great start, as we managed to see the Big Five already by having just spent three days in Kenya, including a family of rhinos at Lake Nakuru and a pair of lions on their honeymoon in Maasai Mara.

On our fourth day we left Kenya for Tanzania. At the border, Tony handed us over to Saidi, our second driver guide, who was very eager to show us why Tanzania in his view was better than Kenya. We spent that afternoon doing a game drive in Serengeti, and it didn't take us long to understand why Serengeti is world famous. Soon into our game drive, we were confronted by hundreds upon hundreds of wildebeests and zebras. It was a sight I, and I am sure my family as well, would never forget for the rest of our lives. The following day didn't disappoint either when we got to see a large pride of lions parading next to us and ending up sunbathing on the Maasai Kopjes, a leopard resting on a tree after its meal, and a few cheetah cubs playing with each other. Saidi managed to squeeze in one more morning game drive in Serengeti before we left for the Ngorongoro Crater. Along the way we stopped by the Olduvai Gorge Museum, which is definitely worth checking out given the location's significance to the human history. The view of the gorge is just breathtaking. We spent the night sleeping in a camp located at the top of the the Ngorongoro Crater, which is highly recommended because it allowed us to partake in a game drive early in the morning when the clouds would roll into the caldera, an absolutely gorgeous sight to see. Not knowing that we had already seen the Big Five in Kenya, Saidi wanted to find rhinos for us in the Ngorongoro Crater. However, it was not meant to be and Saidi was more disappointed than we were. Stopping at one of the viewpoints along the rim for one last look of the crater, we were taking photos when suddenly, Saidi tapped me on the shoulder and asked me with my camera to zoom into this black dot in this unreachable part of the crater. Lo and behold, it was a rhino, and Saidi high-fived me as he was so happy that we got to see the Big Five. We spent our last two days in Tanzania in Tarangire National Park, which is famous for its funny-looking baobab trees. Having seen so much already, I was at first unsure if Tarangire was going to offer something that could excite us anymore, but boy was I wrong. The swamp known as the Elephant's Paradise was one of my favourite places on the trip. It was just so beautiful to see different animals hanging by the water, which is home to a lot of different birds. Not quite a paradise though for one unlucky wildebeest, which served as lunch for a couple of lions right in front of our eyes.

The next day we said goodbye to Saidi as we returned to Kenya for the last destination of our journey, Amboseli National Park. Anthony was our driver guide for Amboseli, who was very knowledgeable and took us to locations where he knew would get us great photos. Anthony suggested that we wake up early the next morning and head out for a game drive before breakfast. It paid off as we were lucky enough to be able to photograph Craig the Super Tusker right in front of a clear Mount Kilimanjaro, which was then covered in clouds not too long after sunrise.

All in all, it was an amazing trip of a lifetime, and we were so glad that we went with Africa Safari Classics. Along the way, Maurice kept checking in with me on WhatsApp to see how our guides were doing. Aside from the lunch boxes could've used more variety, we have nothing but good things to say about the safari. We love Kenya and Tanzania and their people, and we hope to come back to visit soon.
By John MA, Canada.

MELIA NGORONGORO LODGE

Boasting of an incredible location with the best views of the magnificent Ngorongoro Crater, Melia Ngorongoro Lodge guarantees a breathtaking experience, sumptuous accommodation and spectacular scenery from every corner of the lodge. Its interior and exterior designs are in perfect harmony with its fabulous natural surroundings and all the facilities, amenities and services are truly respectful of the natural environment and crafted to immerse guests into the culture of Tanzania. The lodge is set in Ngorongoro Conservation Area in the volcanic highlands of Tanzania. Ngorongoro Crater is the world’s largest intact volcanic caldera and is home to unprecedented biodiversity that comprises of a huge population of some 25,000 large mammals alongside the highest density of predators in Africa. It habours a wide range of endangered species such as the Black Rhino, Wild Hunting Dog, the Golden Cat and over 500 different species of birds. Melia Ngorongoro is a resort-like lodge set by the Crater Rim with each room providing clear views of the Ngorongoro crater floor, the hotel’s charming gardens, the Serengeti Plains and spectacular scenery far and wide. Cuisine at Melia Lodge is inspired by the natural surroundings and offers guests an intimate daily dining experience. Mouth-watering delicacies include traditional African cuisine with Asian influences, with The Crater Grill offering the best selection of local fish and poultry with a fusion of Tanzanian aromas and ingredients. At The Crater Lounge you will find a unique selection of the best East African wines, delightful cocktails made from local African liquors as well as the Tanzanian coffee. Wellness and fitness amenities include an incredible infinity pool with views of the crater, Gym and Spa. The Spa is a calm spot for relaxation and provides a wide choice of treatments and luxurious massage techniques.

MWIBA LODGE

The iconic Mwiba Lodge is an elegant and exclusive hideout deep in the wilderness that boasts of a very spectacular setting on a river overlooking a dramatic rocky gorge in a private wildlife reserve adjoining Southern Serengeti. Mwiba is a secluded haven set atop massive stone boulders and surrounded by ancient coral and acacias trees. Its beautifully nestled in the heart of Mwiba Wildlife Conservancy between the Ngorongoro Conservation Area and Southern Serengeti eco-system which makes for an incredible game viewing experience. Serengeti’s wildebeest migration passes through the lodge between December and April and its permanent waterholes and rivers are a big draw to all kinds of wildlife throughout the year. The lodge comprises of 10 tented suites each with a private deck offering spectacular views, large soaking tub and outdoor rain showers. All the suites are connected with wooden walkways and the décor in the suites is both stylish and very impressive. Cuisine is both sophiscated and world-class. While here, you will indulge in one of the most romantic dining experiences ever. Meals are served at different locations. Lunch may be served in the open-air dining room or at the pool terrace, while dinner could be a barbecue on the sandy terrace. The Spa and Fitness Gym is a popular spot that enables guests to unwind and relax after series of exciting activities. The tranquil spa offers a range of therapies and treatments that include facials, manicures and massages. An expansive pool is set on a rocky outcrop overlooking natural springs below where resident wildlife frequently come to quench their thirst. Guest activities at Mwiba are tailored to suit each guest’s tastes and wants. These include day and night game drives, walking safaris and cultural visits. Each group of guests is assigned their own guide, spotter and vehicle, enabling privacy and flexibility.

CHEM CHEM LODGE

Chem Chem Lodge guarantees a signature experience in an authentic Tanzanian wilderness setting. Chem Chem “the sunset camp” is ideally located to explore Tanzania’s most renowned game reserves. Chem Chem is located within Burunge Wildlife Management Area in an invaluable wildlife migration corridor between the ancient landscapes of Tarangire National Park and the tranquil waters of Lake Manyara National Park the home of the famous tree-climbing lions. This iconic lodge is surrounded by acacias and lush palm trees amidst rolling grasslands overlooking the Great Rift Valley. Chem Chem consists of the main lodge and eight exquisite tented suites, with each of the rooms looking out towards the Great Rift Escarpment and Lake Manyara National Park and all separated by raised walkways. All the suites are carefully arranged and designed to ensure maximum privacy with gorgeous views of the savannah. The dining experience at Chem Chem is unapparelled. Food is both delicious and beautifully presented. Trained by chefs from Europe, the kitchen staff produces sumptuous cuisine that includes magnificent multi-course dinners accompanied by classic wines. Wide variety of activities at Chem Chem include whole day or early morning and afternoon game drives in either Tarangire or Lake Manyara National Parks, night game drives, tracking animals on foot escorted by trained guides, nature walks, bird watching and cultural visits to experience the richness of the Maasai culture, and sundowners in the most beautiful surroundings. The fireplace is a favourite area for sipping your delightful cocktail or a cold beer while gazing at the dazzling array of stars. After day long activities, indulge your senses with variety of treatments on offer in the Amani Spa or laze by the secluded swimming pool terrace with a glass of wine in hand watching animals and birds at the waterhole.

SINGITA SASAKWA LODGE

Arguably the most glamorous lodge in Northern Tanzania, the awe-inspiring Sasakwa Lodge is the flagship property of the Singita Collection. The lodge is set on an elevated position atop the Sasakwa Hill overlooking Grumeti plains in Grumeti Private Reserve which is an enormous wildlife concession on the Western Corridor of the world-famous Serengeti National Park. Sasakwa is ideally positioned on the famous migratory route traversed every year by more than a million wildebeest. Its a single-storey structure with accommodation consisting of ten luxurious cottages all spread out along the escarpment and a one-bedroom Hillside Suite. All the cottages are English colonial in style-themed and well-spaced apart to ensure total privacy. Each air-conditioned cottage features a bedroom, en-suite bathroom, lounge area with fireplace and a infinity plunge pool. The shower and bathtub in every room are well-positioned to provide soaring and uninterrupted views of the Serengeti. The one-bedroom Hillside Suite is set a short distance away and is ideally suited for honeymooners. Wildlife safaris are the main activity here with all game drives in open-sided 4x4 vehicles. Other activities include night game drives, walking safaris and balloon safaris. Delicious meals are enjoyed in Sasakwa’s dining room which also has a marble fireplace. Typical of Singita, every meal here is an adventure and a special delicacy. Breakfasts comprise of buffets encompassing a range of hot and cold options and lunches involve three or even four courses from à la carte menu. Dinner is a lavish affair and always accompanied by a signature wine. For wellness experiences, a fitness centre with state-of-the-art equipment is available for guests to work off and in-room spa treatments and soothing massages are offered. The lodge’s large heated infinity pool provides the most amazing views of Serengeti and beyond.