Latest news with #safari
Forbes
20 hours ago
- Forbes
The Changing Landscape Of Safaris In Tanzania
Safaris allow travelers to get close-up encounters with a variety of animals. getty A safari in Tanzania offers a front-row seat to one of the most amazing wildlife encounters in the world. With a plethora of game—including lions, leopards, cheetahs, rhinos, giraffe and zebra—the country delivers a blend of adventure and jaw-dropping beauty. Every moment on safari here feels like a live-action documentary. Elewana Collection, a brand of boutique lodges, camps and hotels, recently opened the Serengeti Explorer, the first lodge of the new Explorer by Elewana collection. Located in the western corridor of the Serengeti National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Serengeti Explorer is nestled high up on the Nyaboro Hills, with views that stretch for miles across the surrounding plains. The hide is an ideal spot for photographers to get some action shots of animals drinking from the watering hole. Elewana The property is home to the Serengeti's first ever on-site hide. The appeal of that is that people can view wildlife without travelling. Accessed through an underground tunnel from the lodge, the hide allows people to witness nature at play as animals visit the nearby watering hole throughout the day and night. Serengeti Explorer Elewana 'We created sanctuaries in the wild that offer a host of contextual experiences, rather than your traditional safari experience,' says Alina Haq, Director of Marketing and Communications at Elewana. She explains that what makes Elewana unique is that each property is different. 'We don't have a cookie cutter approach, they're all in very specific locations for very unique reasons. Each property has its own personality and delivers its own set of unique experiences.' When it comes to targeting a specific type of traveler, Haq notes that the idea with Explorer by Elewana collection is to be accessible to a broader audience. 'We've got the hide, we've got the photo studio, so it's a perfect place for photographers, but at the same time, the property works for multi-generational families, for first time safari goers, and for those who prefer a concrete structure, as opposed to a canvas one.' The property is hoping to attract a range of photographers, both novice and seasoned, to the property due to its hide. 'If you want to learn about photography, you have the opportunity to do that—we have the equipment and lessons for people to really explore their talent.' The property will have an editing studio, travelers can rent out photo equipment, and the property also has photo lessons by in-house experts. 'I don't know of any other properties that are doing this,' says Haq. She notes that they are paving the way to something new in the safari space. 'I would definitely say it's one of a kind.' While there's currently only one Explorer property, there are two more in the works. 'One of the reasons we created the Explorer brand is because we saw a gap in the safari market,' says Haq. 'There are budget properties and ultra high-end, but the market is missing the in-between.' Explorer serves to fill in that gap. 'What's interesting is safari, for many people, is one of those bucket list holidays,' says Haq. People intend to come just once, but there's something about being on safari that's more than just a holiday. For many, it's life changing so people end up coming over and over again. 'I think we're going to be seeing past Elewana guests coming through Explorer,' says Haq. At the same time Haq notes that Explorer is attracting a completely new audience as well. Other properties in the Elewana portfolio Arusha Coffee Lodge Elewana The name Elewana is Swahili for harmony and understanding and it's that brand ethos that resonates across their properties. At Arusha Coffee Lodge, often a stop at either the beginning or end of a Tanzania safari, 30 plantation houses dot the on-site coffee fields. A luxurious and relaxing lodge, one of the the most popular areas of the property is the Shanga workshop. Shanga Elewana Shanga is the Swahili word for beads and the Shanga program is a social enterprise empowering people with disabilities. 'We have more than 60 employees and most of them have disabilities—including those with hearing, speech and physical challenges,' says Obadiah, a guide who gives daily tours of Shanga to tourists. 'We give them support, because a lot of people with disabilities have a hard time finding a job.' Obadiah explains that Shanga teaches employees different skills—like glass blowing, painting and beading. The art objects that are created are then sold in the Arusha Coffee Lodge gift shop and the money goes back to the enterprise. 'Shanga is a self-sustained project,' says Obadiah. 'We don't have government support.' The products made at Shanga are very eco-friendly. For example, they make shopping bags from recycled newspapers and dream catchers from recycled glass. The glass-blowing team collects bottles from businesses and schools. The furnace for melting the glass is powered by recycled engine oil. Serengeti Pioneer Camp Elewana For a tented camp experience, the Serengeti Pioneer Camp, located in south central Serengeti within the Moru Kopjes is an intimate safari experience with only twelve accommodations. Each tent has its own private en-suite facilities including a flush toilet, vanity basin, and shower. The tent interiors are designed to paying homage to the mobile camps of the 1930's. Rhino tracking safaris are available. Elewana 'The location is what sets this property apart from other safari camps,' says Remsi Sungwa, General Manager at Serengeti Pioneer Camp. 'Not only are the views amazing, but you can't see any other camps.' Sungwa points out that since the camp is located in the Moru Rhino Conservations area, there's a good chance travelers will get to see these magnificent animals. 'Even people that are just relaxing at camp, enjoying a drink, they will look through the telescope and they might stumble upon a rhino walking around.' During the great migration people can see hundreds and hundreds of wildebeest. Sungwa notes that on game drives in other parts of the Serengeti, you might see a bunch of vehicles around one animal sighting, like a lion. 'Here, around the Moru area, it pretty much feels like a private game area—with lots to see and few other vehicles around to share the experience.' The landscape, a combination of kopjes and plains, also make for stellar sunrises and sunsets. 'You see the pink, the orange, the red, all the colors light up the sky, it's really an amazing experience,' says Sungwa. It's not uncommon to see lions, elephants, giraffes and other wildlife walking along the plains at dawn and dusk.
CTV News
2 days ago
- CTV News
EXTENDED: 'Once-in-a-lifetime' moose encounter
Vancouver Watch Kellie Paxian captured an up-close encounter with a massive moose while on a "Canadian safari" in Jasper National Park.
CTV News
2 days ago
- CTV News
‘Canadian safari': Moose sticks its nose into B.C. woman's car
Kellie Paxian captured an up-close encounter with a massive moose while on a "Canadian safari" in Jasper National Park.
Yahoo
3 days ago
- Yahoo
How to plan a trip to see Africa's Great Migration
This article was produced by National Geographic Traveller (UK). To a soundtrack of thundering hooves and panicked brays, wildebeest plunge into the muddy Mara River, churning the water as sly crocodiles snap from below and lions prowl the banks. It's a scene of raw, pulse-quickening drama — nature at its most primal, played out beneath vast African skies. But this isn't just a spectacle, it's part of Africa's Great Migration, a world-renowned wildlife phenomenon where more than a million wildebeest, along with countless zebras and gazelles, follow the rains across Tanzania's Serengeti and Kenya's Maasai Mara in a relentless quest for greener pastures. And it's not just predators drawn to the chaos, with the migration pulling in travellers from across the globe. But with growing attention comes growing responsibility, and sustainable travel is playing an ever more crucial role in protecting this extraordinary event. Here's everything you need to know before you go. While the dramatic crossings of the Mara River might be the most iconic scenes, the Great Migration is far more expansive. Every year, vast herds of wildebeest, zebra and gazelle traverse the Greater Serengeti-Mara ecosystem — a sweeping landscape of around 444 square miles. Guided by a mix of instinct, survival and the rhythms of the rains, the animals follow a circular route in constant pursuit of fresh grazing. Estimates of their combined numbers vary, ranging from one to two million, but one thing is certain: witnessing this epic journey in motion is an unforgettable experience for any wildlife lover. Wildebeest can sniff out rainfall and the promise of fresh grasses from miles away. Though climate change is making weather patterns less predictable, the ancient route of their odyssey remains unchanged. The migration typically begins in the southern Serengeti and neighbouring Ngorongoro Crater Conservation Area, where the rains transform the plains into a maternity ward for the herds. February offers a different perspective on the migration, with some 500,000 calves born in just a few weeks. Predators, of course, are never far behind, waiting for easy pickings among the wobbly newborns. From April, the herds begin their journey north, moving through the Moru Kopjes — dotted with striking granite outcrops — and into the Seronera region, the heart of the Serengeti. By June, they reach the Western Corridor and the Grumeti River, before pushing on towards Kenya's Maasai Mara between July and August. But before they can enjoy its lush pastures, they must brave the treacherous crossings of the Mara River, sometimes more than once, as they respond to scattered rains. Once in the Mara, the herds disperse across the reserve, from the Mara Triangle to the Musiara and Sekenani sectors and spill into surrounding conservancies. By October, as the grasses begin to wither, the journey turns south once more. The wildebeest cross back into Tanzania, reaching eastern Serengeti, then gradually drift towards the southern plains, ready to calve again in the new year, continuing their eternal cycle of migration. If you're hoping to witness the Great Migration in the Serengeti or Maasai Mara — especially during peak season, from June to October — it's essential to plan well in advance. Lodges and camps often book up a year or more in advance and safari vehicles can jostle for space along the riverbanks as travellers vie for the best vantage points. While it's possible to travel independently, organising a migration safari can make the experience far easier. There are many options available, and the process can be complex and expensive, so it's well worth enlisting the help of a responsible, specialist Africa tour operator. These experts can tailor your itinerary, arrange bush flights or 4x4 transfers and match you with the best camps and lodges for your budget. Recommended operators include Yellow Zebra, Expert Africa, Mahlatini, Far & Wild Travel and Wild Paths, and for family safaris, Coral Tree Travel. Direct flights from London to Kenya are available with Kenya Airways to Nairobi's Jomo Kenyatta International Airport. For Tanzania, fly via Nairobi or Addis Ababa (with Ethiopian Airlines) and transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport. Choosing the right accommodation is essential for a responsible and rewarding safari experience. Where possible, avoid large, budget international hotels in favour of boutique lodges or intimate camps that prioritise sustainability. Many of these properties actively support local communities and conservation efforts, while offering exceptional safari experiences. In Tanzania, consider options such as Wayo Africa and Wilderness Usawa, which operate mobile safari camps that follow the migration and provide access to private wilderness areas that are ideal for walking safaris. Asilia Africa is another leader in sustainable tourism, pioneering camps in previously undeveloped areas, including Sayari in northern Serengeti, Namiri Plains in the east and Dunia in Seronera, which proudly employs Tanzania's only all-female team. In the Maasai Mara, staying within community-owned conservancies neighbouring the reserve offers both exclusivity and a deeper connection to the land and its people. Local communities combine their land parcels to host a limited number of high-end camps, generating income through lease fees, conservancy levies and employment, while restoring vital wildlife habitat. Though prices may be higher, guests benefit from fewer crowds and exclusive activities such as night drives, walking safaris and full-day game drives to the iconic river crossings. Operators like Kicheche, Porini and Asilia Africa have played pivotal roles in establishing these conservancies and maintaining genuinely beneficial relationships with local communities. Choose wisely: It's becoming easier to identify truly sustainable operators, especially those who publish detailed impact reports or transparent newsletters. However, some may still offer only lip service to sustainability claims. Always check reviews carefully and ask questions if their commitments seem vague. Stay longer: Traditional safaris often involve early starts, bumpy drives and frequent moves between camps, sometimes requiring eco-unfriendly bush flights. Consider a 'slow' safari instead, staying in one camp for an extended period. This approach benefits the environment, supports local economies and allows you to unwind and deepen your connection with the natural world. Leave the vehicle behind: Many camps offer walking safaris, providing an intimate way to discover smaller wildlife, insects and birds away from the crowds. For a unique perspective, try a hot-air balloon safari — there's nothing quite like drifting above the migration at dawn. Or simply take a day off to relax at camp, watching wildlife from the comfort of the pool. Meet the locals: While some village visits can feel like awkward tourist traps, camps with genuine community ties offer meaningful encounters. These experiences allow you to learn about local cultures and enjoy the warmth and hospitality of the people who call this land kind to wildlife: Avoid contributing to chaotic vehicle scrambles around sightings or river crossings. Wildlife should never be distressed or disturbed for our entertainment. Respectful viewing ensures these animals remain wild and free. To subscribe to National Geographic Traveller (UK) magazine click here. (Available in select countries only).
CNA
4 days ago
- CNA
CNA938 Rewind - Luxury travels to Africa while keeping an eye on sustainability
CNA938 Rewind In Destination Anywhere, Melanie Oliveiro speaks with Jo Hendry-Prior, co-founder of Alchemist Travel a luxury travel agency, about her travels to certain African states. She'll talk about glamping with wildlife at one's door, going on a safari on horseback and trying delicious African cuisine. Hendry-Prior will also talk about how each trip encourages sustainability and having a positive impact.
