Tanzanian Trails

8 days - from $952

Tanzania's two main drawcards are the celebrated grasslands of the Serengeti and the outstanding Ngorongoro Crater. Both are so well known they need little introduction. The Serengeti Plains/Masai Mara eco-system is one of the largest in Africa, covering some 15,000 square kilometres (about a quarter of the size of the Australian state of Tasmania and three times the size of Wales). It supports the largest concentration of plains animals anywhere in the world, along with plenty of predators. Nearby is the ancient crater at Ngorongoro, measuring 20 kilometres in diameter and is the largest unbroken, intact and unflooded caldera (collapsed cone of an ancient volcano) in the world. Often described as a 'natural zoo', the crater offers outstanding opportunities for seeing a large variety of wildlife, including the highly endangered black rhinoceros. Before venturing into these wonderful wildlife arenas we first spend time at a very inspirational school and learn how one Australian woman's dream of fighting poverty through education has become a reality. Seeking out the poorest of the poor and providing the support required to help these children to complete primary and secondary education, this school hopes to set the foundations for the future success of Tanzania as this generation move forward into adulthood. All in all, this trip offers a superb wildlife encounter whilst also providing support for a very inspirational project and hundreds of poor children whose dreams of a good education are now a reality.

Highlights

• School of St Jude
• Serengeti National Park
• Ngorongoro Conservation Area
• Ngorongoro Crater

Itinerary:

Day 1 Nairobi2 Nairobi - Arusha3 School of St Jude - Mto Wa Mbu4-5 Serengeti National Park6 Serengeti National Park - Ngorongoro Conservation Area7 Ngorongoro Crater - Arusha8 Arusha - Nairobi

What's It Like?

Gecko's adventures offer authentic experiences and a genuine alternative to backpacking. Our trips are designed for younger travelers on a budget but do include the entrance fees to the 'must see' sights while not wasting your money on unnecessary frills. Itineraries utilize public transport and basic twin share accommodations in small locally owned hotels, the occasional multi-share, or simply floor space in a jungle or village hut. Many trips involve some physical activity, the occasional long traveling day and you will need to carry your own bags. On camping trips, meals are freshly prepared by our camp cook, but expect to put up and take down your tent, and assist with camp chores. On all trips we only use local tour leaders who are passionate about their homeland. This is travel, grassroots style - basic but rewarding.

Included: A driver, an experienced safari guide and a camp cook assist us whilst on safari; specialist local driver/guides in Ngorongoro Crater; park fees; 1 night budget hotel, 6 nights camping; transport in custom built safari vehicle, 4WD landrovers and by foot.
Not Included: International flights, local payment, arrival and departure transfers, airport/departure taxes, visas, pre-tour or post-tour accommodation, all other meals, drinks, sleeping bag, pillow, all optional additional tours or activities during free time, transfers outside of the tour program, travel insurance, tips and items of a personal nature, laundry and flights (unless specified).
Meals: As a guide we recommend you allow a figure of up to US$50 for additional meals, snacks and drinks (non-alcoholic) not included.
Valid From: 11 Jan 08
Notes: We travel in a custom-built safari vehicle that can take a maximum of 24 clients. There are large opening windows, providing unrestricted game viewing and photographic opportunities, and on-board we have useful reference books about the flora and fauna that you may encounter during your safari. The large dome tents are spacious and quick to erect with the sides covered in mosquito netting and foam mattresses provided to enable you to sleep in comfort. A comfortable folding chair is also supplied for each passenger. In addition, all communal camping equipment is carried on board together with on-board cool boxes. You need to bring your own sleeping bag and it is also recommended that you bring a pillow or purchase one locally for added comfort. Please note there are no laundry services available whilst camping, but sometimes when we stay at a campsite for at least two consecutive nights, there may be the opportunity to do some hand-washing. A special feature of the safari is that in addition to our safari guide and professional driver we have a camp cook who plans, budgets and prepares all included meals. Please note that short skirts or shorts are not considered appropriate attire when visiting the School of St Jude Road Conditions and Infrastructure in Africa Roads in Africa are often in very poor condition, which makes it hard on vehicles. Our vehicles are serviced regularly and are generally in good condition, but breakdowns can and do happen. The infrastructure in Africa is not always what we are used to and travelling on their roads can sometimes be very bumpy experiences. The travelling times indicated in our Trip Notes is just a rough guide and is dependent on various factors that may be outside our control, such as road conditions, weather and time spent at borders.
Starts/Ends: Nairobi to Arusha or Nairobi
Trip Reference: GATT