Southern Tanzania: Off the Beaten Path

Trip Level

This trip is rated Level 2+, Easy to Moderate, according to our trip grading system. It is a game viewing safari by 4WD vehicle with hikes and walks that can be enjoyed by anyone in reasonably good health who has recent hiking experience.

Terrain

The game-tracking walks are accompanied by a professional tracker and are conducted at a pace that allows an intimate exploration of the African bush.

The longer optional mountain hike on Day 8 follows a track through montane forest, but our group will likely leave the trail for periods of time to track the mangabey monkeys. This hike can be steep, slippery, and have loose footing at times, and therefore it is only recommended for travelers in good physical conditioning and with confidence in their stability on rough trails. The shorter option follows a more established trail and can be taken at a slower pace.

Weather

December to March is East Africa’s “summer” with daytime temperatures from 80º-90º and evenings from 50º to 60º. June, July, and August are the coolest months, with lows around 40º and highs of 70º-80º. September, October, and November are warmer, with lows around 65º and highs of 75º-85º. Scattered rains occur in November and early December, which help to lay the dust.

Accommodations

Our safari camps, while not deluxe, are very comfortable, with private en suite facilities, a peaceful setting, and a high level of service. We choose them for their excellent locations near the best wildlife viewing.

Transportation

Our game drives and road travel throughout the safari will be in 6-passenger Land Rovers with a guaranteed window seat for all. We carry water and snacks in the vehicles. There is one very long, challenging driving day (Day 5) over rough roads and rugged dirt tracks, but we will break the drive up with rest stops and a picnic or restaurant lunch along the way.