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

• Tented camps and tall stories around the campfire
• Dawn game drives in the Serengeti
• Safari through the Serengeti plains
• The African Eden of Ngorongoro Crater
• Visit the School of St Jude

Itinerary:

Day 1: Nairobi2: Nairobi - Arusha3: School of St Jude - Mto Wa Mbu4-5: Serengeti National Park6: 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: 7 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 6 dinners
EquipmentIncluded: 02 Sep 10
Valid From: 11 Jan 08
Valid Until: 31 Dec 69
Starts/Ends: Nairobi to Arusha or Nairobi
Trip Reference: GATT