Tanzania Attractions

andBeyond Mnemba Private Island

andBeyond Mnemba island is a private island paradise considered to be one of the most unique, luxurious and expensive hotel you can find on the Zanzibar archipelago.

Intrigued, the Shadows of Africa team was wondering whether the property lives up to its hype and its hefty price tag and decided to check it out for themselves. Julia and Lesia from our Ukrainian office had a short stay in the lodge and were blown away by their experience.

Location

andBeyond Mnemba Island is a private island located not far from Unguja, the largest island of Zanzibar.

It takes around twenty minutes to get to Mnemba by boat from Muyuni Beach. During the trip you will enjoy the view of Mnemba, traditional dhow boats and the crystal clear waters of the Indian Ocean.

The resort is an exclusive one and you’reonly allowed to set foot on the island only if you have booked a room in the resort.

Rooms

When the ladies arrived on Mnemba, they were met by the management and got a short briefing regarding their stay. The chef came out to greet them and to double-check all their dietary preferences. After welcome drinks, they were escorted to their luxurious room.

AndBeyond Mnemba Island Lodge has ten beachfront bandas with no windows or doors. This gives guests a truly exclusive feel to their vacation, with approximately 20 guests can stay on the island at any onetime. Each of the bandas sit apart from one another, promising you  maximum privacy.

Each of the bandas is surrounded by tropical forest and has a spacious veranda with easy access to the pristine beach. Guests get their own lounge zone and traditional Zanzibari sunbeds. A covered walkway will bring you to a shuttered bathroom with a huge shower. Basically, in the bandas you will find everything that you would expect to find in a luxuryhotel, all while maintaining that feeling of connection with nature. Julia and Lesia felt that they got a truly decadent Robinson Crusoe experience.

Food

The chef took care of a tasty lunch with a choice of different starters and main courses. The food was so good that the ladies even broke their rule and ordered dessert. The sorbet with cardamom and pineapple looked too attractive to refuse!

If you have any special dietary requirements, the hotel will take care of it in advance.

Dinner in Mnemba is usually served on the beach. You will get a beautiful set up surrounded with lights. You’llbe served by your own butler. After a delicious meal,the staff of the hotel did a birthday surprise for Lesia - a beautiful cake decorated with fruits and candy!

Breakfast on the island is served with a variety of fruits, seeds, and natural jams.The chef and your butler will follow all your preferences. The guests dine in the main restaurant admiring the view of the ocean. Though, you can always request it be served in your villa and enjoy some privacy.

Activities

Sleeping in Mnemba is a very unique experience. Your bed faces the ocean and the absence of a door lets the gentle crash of the waves lull you to sleep. You’ll rest safe and sound beneath a mosquito net in your huge, comfortable bed and wake to the sound of birds singing their dawn greetings.

In the morning, the ladies decided to explore the island. Mnemba Island is surrounded by a coral atoll which has been declared as a Marine Conservation area. It is a great spot for divers and snorkelers.. As it’s a house reef, you don’t even need a boat! Just walk into the water and explore the marine life. If you have a PADI certification two dives per day are even included in the package!

You can also go kayaking, wind-surfing or go for a sunset dhow-cruise. There are three dolphin species around the island, whale sharks, and around 600 species of coral reef fish. If you are lucky, you might even spot humpback whales! The beach of the island is also a nesting place for Green Sea Turtles, which you can see from February to September.

Besides the stunning beach, the island can boast a tropical forest with some rare antelope and bird species. Here you can meet the suni antelope and even the highly endangered Ader’s duiker.

Privacy

Julia and Lesia experienced privacy in full in Mnemba. Guests of the island might meet each other sometimes during lunch or walking around the beach, but you will definitely get a feeling this island is just for you!

andBeyond Mnemba Island is not a place for party people, who like to interact with other guests, enjoy shows, and participate in extreme activities. It is perfect for that travelers who would like to get some relaxation and time for themselves, who wants to forget about the work and their problems, connect with a nature and enjoy one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. It is also for that once who appreciates great service and barefoot luxury experience.

Climbers Experiences on Mount Kilimanjaro

We all get told climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is amazing, that it is one of the seven great peaks to climb on your bucket list; here is some great stories of guests who climbed it recently. First, before I relate these stories to you, let me give you an overview of the largest mountain in Africa. For it has a few facts that most people get confused with. Mt. Kilimanjaro is located in the Republic of Tanzania, in East Africa, most people think it in Kenya as well just like they think the Serengeti is in Kenya too; but they are not, Tanzania is the place for these great features.

Our latest brochure is about Mount Kilimanjaro and it explains to you what we offer and what is needed for this bucket list adventure of climbing this mountain. There are a few routes, but we mainly take our guests up the Marangu route or the Machame routes. The number of days needed to climb and get back down vary per route and per group! So when booking, make sure you know these important details, because these details will make your Kilimanjaro trek far more satisfactory and enjoyable. Below is a story from one of our guests recently.

For the Mt Meru trek, our group of 3 were led by Amir and his team of support staff (1 cook, 1 waiter/head porter and 5 other porters). We were grouped together with 3 other companies totaling 9 clients. This was because visitors to Arusha National Park are required to be accompanied by one of their armed rangers which there are a limited number of. Shadows of Africa was noticeably more professional than the other companies I saw. During the trip briefing, Amir made sure that we all had the necessary clothing and equipment by actually checking what we brought over. Our heart rates and oxygen levels were monitored and recorded at the end of every day during the trek (something I’ve never had to do elsewhere — nice touch!). We were talking to our other fellows trekkers with other companies, and almost none of them were as well briefed as us. Some were quite unprepared clothing wise and their guides lacked professionalism (more on that below). The porter to client ratio is apparently set to 2:1 and they each have a weight limit restriction as the government is trying to dissuade operators from overloading their porters. So it’s not surprising if the number of support staff is quite large relative to the group size. My recommendation would be to do the 3D/2N option instead and ask your operator beforehand if they can arrange a car to pick you up from Miriakamba Hut and drive directly back down to the park gates.

Our guide, Amir was an excellent guide given his experience in leading treks up to the much higher, Mount Kilimanjaro. My friend felt weak from stomach problems before the trek even started, and he provided attentive care throughout the entire trek. On the morning of the third day when we were summiting, one of the other trekkers started feeling unwell with blurred vision likely due to the effects of high altitude. As we were at the front of the group, we didn’t find out about her condition until well into the summiting trek. It’s to my understanding that her own guide (who was also the park ranger overlooking all of us) had her keep going up and barely addressed her concerns. Amir had to step in and lead her hand-in-hand safely back down. I’m quite disappointed on how the guides from the other companies handled the situation as they barely provided any help. Even though the girl wasn’t their own client, they somehow didn’t find it in them to even provide words of comfort. They just stood off to the side. I’ve been on many treks before where the guide doesn’t really play an important role but after this incident, I now realize how important it is to have an experienced guide. Amir saved the day! I highly recommend requesting for him for trekking tours with Shadows of Africa.

Adventures on Safaris this July

The safaris in July were absolutely fantastic, our clients truly enjoyed themselves, and were left awestruck. The parks traveled to were mainly the Serengeti, Tarangire and Manyara. We had a variety of clients, from families to just single people traveling in groups or by themselves.

Our drivers are some of the most experienced locals in the industry, because of this the guests leave not sightings species but also are able to tell stories to their families and friends back home about these beautiful creatures. Our goal is to create experiences for our guests and educate them about Africa and the beauty of it. As distances are far getting from one place to another, it is guaranteed that our drivers will make the drive pleasant filled with laughter and stories about this great continent.

Most of our safaris have a cultural tour inserted inside which allows the guests to experience first-hand shooting bows and arrows, watch how domestic animals are skinned if you have the stomach for it that is. Otherwise, you can learn how to throw Maasai spears. In these tours, you learn about the culture of the native people in the area and how they live, their traditions and history, sources of income and food. What amazes myself and I am sure most of you, is how they have integrated their cultures etc into the modern world, yet the simplicity of their lives is outstanding. Could you live like this even for just a week?

As this particular dry season, this year has been drier than normal, the wildlife was pretty scattered across the parks in search of water and food, having a great sighting of animals was pretty lucky. By the photos in this post, you can see that the guests made great memories and had lots of fun. If you have not been to Africa yet, or not this part of Africa we can assure you that memorable experiences will be created with us.

The migration in July was in northern Serengeti, the river crossing sightings were spectacular! As this is the time of year that they are moving in between the Maasai Mara and the Serengeti. The Mara River is one of the best places to see the famous wildebeest river crossings. Here you will how the animals cross and how the predators take advantage of this movement of animals. In Africa, survival of the fittest and strongest is essential to life. At first, the wildebeest are shy then they literally surge across, here picking out prey is easy for the crocodiles; lions sit and wait for them, and catch them whilst they are weary or the stragglers that are hesitant to cross. Watching the circle of life take place in right in front of you is truly amazing!

Those that visited Tarangire National Park, got the opportunity of seeing the largest mammals in Africa, the African elephant, this park holds the largest elephant population in East Africa, thereby you won’t drive far without seeing these majestic animals. You will also have seen the ground hornbill, those big black birds with red beaks. Did you know that the elephants are ruled by the Matriarch, the females are the ones who control what is going on in the herd, and the males get kicked out at times.

If you read our reviews on TripAdvisor you will be able to read the personal stories of the guests on safaris. Join us on an adventure and tick of those items on your bucket list! You can contact us at info@shadowsofafrica.com

Experience Tribal Culture with Cultural Tours in East Africa

Seven Day Ngorongoro Highlands Trekking Adventure

Our clients from Australia, Peta and Karen had a very special adventure in Tanzania. They decided to explore one of the most beautiful places in the world – the Ngorongoro Conservation Area.Their goal was to see it not just from a comfortable safari jeep, but also to see local villages, trek to Empaakai crater, and to explore off the beaten path places within the Ngorongoro Region.

For people who prefer to explore everything on their own two feet, we have a beautiful Seven Day Ngorongoro Highlands Trekking Adventure.

The program starts with a game drive in Ngorongoro Crater.

It is a home to the Big Five and is also the best place in Tanzania for spotting rhinos. Our clients enjoyed watching lions, buffaloes, wildebeests, and hyenas there.

After a bit of a game drive, Peta and Karen continued on to their trekking venture. They had a hike through the Embulimnuli Depression, where on the way they could see Maasai cattle trails. In the evening, they settled the camp in Kamnana village.

On the third day, they had the breathtaking experience of hiking to the famous Empakai Crater. It is a real green paradise offering an amazing view of the Great Rift Valley, Lake Natron and Ol Doinyo Lengai – an active volcano of Tanzania.

After observing unforgettable landscapes, they had a picnic and finally relaxed in camp.

On the next day, Peta and Karen didn’t miss a chance to visit Naiyobi – a village of the Maasai. There they had a chance to meet some of the local people to see how they are living and what they are eating.They even got to visit a local school.

The Australian ladies continued their trip with some more trekking to get closer to OlDoinyoLengai – an active and very unique volcano that emits sodium carbonate and potassium. Climbing OlDoinyoLengai is an incredible experience and can promise you some beautiful views of Lake Natron and the surrounding lands.

At the end of the itinerary, travelers had a game drive around Lake Natron, famous for its flamingoes, beautiful landscapes and some wildlife.

What do you think of this itinerary? If you are an active person who likes trekking and beautiful landscapes, you should definitely try this one. You will camp in one of the most impressive areas of East Africa! This is a real adventure!

East African Destinations for a Family Safari

Planning a Family Safari

Planning a safari for your family can be a stressful affair. You've not only got to consider your own safari ambitions, but also the shorter attention spans of your younger travelers.

While we've written before about how to plan a family safari, we thought we'd highlight some must-see destinations when it comes to entertaining young and old alike.

From learning about Maasai culture in Tanzania to walking with giraffes in Kenya to beach escapes in Rwanda, there's a little something for everybody in East Africa.

Ol Pejeta Conservancy, Kenya

This former cattle ranch is today a beacon for conservation in East Africa. Not only is Ol Pejeta the largest black rhino sanctuary in East Africa, it's also home to some of the world's last remaining white rhinos.

The conservancy is also home to a large variety of other animals, including plenty of Africa's iconic big cats and a chimpanzee sanctuary.

The opportunity to go on a game drive, visit the chimpanzee sanctuary, and meet Najin, Fatu, and Sudan (three of the world's last white rhinoceros) are the highlights, but there's more!

Night game drives, lion tracking, bush walks, birding, and plenty to occupy young and old alike make Ol Pejeta a premier family safari destination.

Lake Naivasha, Kenya

While it's not a national park in its own right, Lake Naivasha is a regular inclusion on Kenyan safaris.

Located between Lake Nakuru National Park and the Maasai Mara, Lake Naivasha is often included as a stop due to its abundance of comfortable lodges, its beautiful scenery, and its proximity to a variety of Lake Naivasha attractions.

Key among these attractions are the opportunity to take a boat ride on Lake Naivasha to see hippos and a variety of birds.

You can also pay a visit to the Crescent Island Sanctuary, where kids can wander alongside giraffes, zebras, and antelope.

Nairobi, Kenya

Nairobi is a common starting point for safaris in both Kenya and Tanzania, but the Kenyan capital is also full of exciting activities for families.

Our half-day Nairobi tour and full-day Nairobi tour pack in a variety of activities including the David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage, the Giraffe Centre, Bomas of Kenya, and more.

Why not add a day in Nairobi to the start or finish of your safari?

Hell's Gate National Park, Kenya

Located a short drive from Lake Nakuru, Lake Naivasha, and Nairobi - Hell's Gate National Park is often thought of as a playground for those who love extreme outdoor activities.

While rock-climbing and hiking might be a bit much for a young family, Hell's Gate's unique landscape and lack of predators make it a great place for a relaxed family excursion.

Renting a bike and traveling through Hell's Gate is a great way to see Africa up close. You can also visit the local hot springs and even camp!

Zanzibar, Tanzania

Africa's premier beach playground is tailor-made for families.

With a variety of resorts catering to all budgets and all walks of life, there's something for everybody on Tanzania's spice island.

Whether you're looking to relax in luxury, take excursions for snorkeling, or learn more about the island's history - there is plenty of things to do in Zanzibar.

Africa Amini Maasai Lodge, Tanzania

Authentic cultural experiences can be difficult to come by while traveling. With many locals realizing the value of tourism, there has been a rise in 'fake' attractions aimed at selling souvenirs.

Thankfully, Africa Amini Maasai Lodge near Arusha has filled this niche. A not for profit organisation aimed at bettering the lives of local Maasai, Africa Amini Lodge combines luxury with an authentic cultural experience.

At this beautiful lodge, adults and kids alike can participate in Maasai led activities such as guided nature walks, traditional craft lessons, local food, spear throwing, music, and dance.

Arusha National Park, Tanzania

Not as popular as the Serengeti or Lake Manyara, Arusha National Park is nonetheless worthy of inclusion on your safari.

Without any predators to worry about, visitors to Arusha National Park can trade the car for the open air - with both walking safaris and canoe safaris available.

There's plenty to do in Arusha National Park, and it's thoroughly worth including in your trip if time allows.

Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda

While Murchison Falls National Park is a little out of the way compared to Uganda's other popular parks, there are plenty of reasons why your family will love the park.

Not only is the park home to some of Africa's most iconic animals, but the waterfall from which it takes its name is worth a visit.

Murchison Falls is the world's most powerful waterfall, and the chance to witness its power up close and take a cruise on the Nile are this park's big selling points.

Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda

Located on the drive between Kibale Forest National Park and Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park is Uganda's premier game drive destination.

Famed for its tree climbing lions, the park's open plains are also home to a variety of other animals and an equally huge variety of lodges and camps.

A highlight of any visit to the park is the chance to take a boat safari on Kazinga Channel to see elephants, hippos, crocodiles, and a huge variety of birds.

Lake Kivu, Rwanda

Rwanda's main attractions - chimpanzees and gorillas - aren't available to kids under the age of twelve, but there are still reasons to visit The Land of 1,000 Hills.

Lake Kivu is one of the most beautiful bodies of water in all of East Africa - the perfect place for a beach escape without the ocean.

The shores of Lake Kivu are dotted with gorgeous accommodations ranging from luxury lodges to quaint B&Bs, and there are a variety of local cultural activities to participate in.

Iby Iwacu Cultural Village, Rwanda

Located in Musanze, the Iby Iwacu Cultural Village is a project by reformed poachers to raise awareness of traditional Rwandan culture.

Visitors to this cultural park can try traditional food, see displays of local dance and music, learn about traditional culture, and even try their hand at being King or Queen for a day!

The Calving Season Safari

Our clients Bradley, Risa, Alejandro, and Giovanna decided to go for a safari during the calving season. They had a six day safari with a night in Arusha in order to explore Ngorongoro Crater, Serengeti, and Lake Manyara National Park. In their itinerary, our travelers combined lodges with luxury tented camps. It is the best way to be close to wild nature, but still enjoy a comfortable stay.

But of course, the main point of the trip was to see the most famous African animals, and they were lucky enough to spot all of the Big 5, including a rhino in Ngorongoro Crater.

They also saw four cheetahs, as well as a lot of zebras, giraffes, wildebeests and antelopes. Our guide Musa shared some pictures from their trip!

Tanzania is one of the best destinations for a safari and every  trip of our customers prove it!

Great Big Five Safari!

What an amazing safari experience!

Our clients, David & Jessica were so lucky to see lots of groups of predators starting from Tarangire, all the way through Serengeti and Ngorongoro.

They spotted twelve cheetahs during their safari, as well as a number of leopards and even a prides of lions who had just finished hunting. Isn’t that great?

They were also lucky enough to see rhinos up close in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area.

Even our driver Edwin was impressed and took lots of pictures! You never can predict what exactly you will see on safari, but in Tanzania it is never boring!

Kubu Kubu Tented Camp in Serengeti NP

Kubu Kubu Tented Camp in Serengeti NP

Kubu Kubu Tented Camp in Serengeti NP

Between Ngorongoro & Manyara. Elephant Caves Walk

If you would like to stretch your legs a bit after a longtime sitting during safari, there is an option to have a 2 hour hike to the Elephant Caves and Endoro waterfalls.

Start of the track is located in Karatu town near Gibbs farm. You will be accompanied by a professional guide. You will hike through Ngorongoro rainforest - this is a corridor for animals between Lake Manyara National Park and the Ngorongoro Crater. During your walk through untouched forest you will be able to observe all the beauty of wild nature and amazing bird life. Your guide will explain to you about theanimal’s tracks from their footprints.

Why the elephant caves are called elephant caves? Those giants used to come to the rocks which are very rich for calcium, they hit the rocks with their tusks and eat the piece sand it helps the elephants to receive enough minerals and to make their bones very strong. The big holes are still there and that is why people call this place“elephant caves.”

You will be able to come very close, even step inside the caves and see signs from tusks.

There is a small Endoro River near the caves, and the elder elephants pick this place as a point to spend their old age and finally pass away so some call this an elephant burial grounds as well.

After caves you will track to the Endoro waterfall –a  great spot to observe the view of Karatu town and take some unforgettable pictures.

Julia & Marjeta are exploring Elephant Caves