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Day 1 (14 November, 2021) - Arusha

 

Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport. Met by a representative of the ground operators and transfer to Rivertrees Country Inn. Overnight on a Bed and Breakfast Basis.   Set in Northern Tanzania just outside the bustling safari town of Arusha, Rivertrees looks out toward Mt Kilimanjaro, and is perfectly situated for exploring the abundant nature reserves that this region is home to.

 

 

The inn is a charming country estate that was once an old coffee farm, and still retains the nostalgic air of a well-loved homestead. Sprawling ten acres of fertile greenery, the grounds are a natural extension of Mt Meru’s sloping foothills, and offer a sanctuary for the birds and wildlife indigenous to the area.

Elegantly rustic cottages are dotted along the river and in thickets of tall trees, while lush lawns and birdsong make for a peaceful and picturesque setting. Set in the heart of an area rich in nature reserves, montane forests and vibrant village culture, the scope for exploration is endless. 

 

 

The restaurant concocts tasty meals of garden-fresh ingredients and old family recipes, as well as oven-fired pizzas and the best of the region’s locally grown coffees. Delicious candle-lit dinners are served by the warmth of the fireplace, or under the stars and the watchful eyes of resident owls. Rivertrees combines unpretentious comfort with subtle accents of style to create a timeless pause in a traveler’s journey, and a sense of warmth and genuine welcome.

 

Day 2 - Monday 15 November 2021

At a time to be advised by the lodge manager, private transfer to Arusha Airport. Connect with your onward flight to Seronera Airstrip in the Serengeti. Upon arrival we are met by transfer vehicles from Namiri Plains Camp. Transfer to Namiri Plains, where we will be spending the next 3 nights.

 

 

For 20 years, the grasslands of the Eastern Serengeti were closed to tourists to allow the cheetah population to replenish itself. Today, this is big-cat territory, where cheetah roam the area in pursuit of prey, and lion and leopard hunt undisturbed. Embodying the same wholesome values, and excellent staff and guiding that Namiri Plains is well-known for, the new camp boasts remarkably improved accommodation and an enhanced guest experience.

 

 

We welcome you to explore this incredible corner of the Serengeti from the comfort of the upgraded Namiri Plains. Expansive views from our larger room decks, unmatched privacy, the addition of an information center, pool, spa, and many more enticing inclusions make Namiri Plains a destination that is perfect for any safari lover. As always, sightings of apex predators are unrivalled within this special region of the Serengeti so when staying with us you are sure to experience an exclusive and action-packed safari.

 

 

Includes: all meals, all house drinks (except champagne), scheduled open vehicle game drives, walking safaris, transfers to/from Seronera Airstrip, limited laundry service. Total Asilia Conservation Charge (Serengeti National Park Fee - Adult Rate, Serengeti National Park: Concession Fee - Tanzanian Tourism Development Levy.

Day 5 Thursday 18 November 2021

 

At a time to be advised by the lodge manager, transfer to Seronera Airstrip, to connect with our ongoing flight to Msembe Airstrip.  Upon arrival we are met by the camp vehicles – transfer to Jabali Ridge Camp .

Includes: all meals, all house drinks (except champagne), game drives, night drives, guided walks, transfers to/from nearest airstrip and to/from Jabali Ridge, limited laundry service.

Includes: all meals, all house drinks (except champagne), game drives, night drives, guided walks, transfers to/from nearest airstrip and to/from Jabali Ridge, limited laundry service. Asilia Conservation Charge, Ruaha National Park Concession Fee, Ruaha National Park Fee, Tanzanian Tourism Development Levy.

 

Set high on a rocky kopje overlooking a landscape dotted with spiky palms and bulbous baobabs, Jabali Ridge is a sophisticated base from which to explore Ruaha National Park. The remarkable beauty of Ruaha is not only in the landscape and its diversity of flora and fauna, or the impressive big game, but in the feeling of having the wilderness all to yourself. With only a handful of visitors at any one time in an area the size of New Jersey, this is an exceptional safari experience.

 

 

The scope of wildlife in Ruaha is extraordinary, a result of the park’s unique location straddling the transition area between Eastern and Southern Africa and two distinct vegetation zones. It is one of the largest wildlife conservation areas on the continent and incorporates multiple ecosystems that support a great and varied number of species. A tenth of the world’s lion population hunts across the savannah and prides of 20 or more are commonplace.

Sightings of herds of greater and lesser kudu, sable and roan antelope are frequent, as are glimpses of the endangered African wild dog, bat-eared fox and cheetah, one of the few sustainable populations left in East Africa. And if that isn’t enough, the elusive leopard can be found lurking among the bushes, just to keep the balance right.

 

 

With views over Ruaha from every corner of the room, the guest suites are designed to maximise the stunning landscape beyond. Be it from the bed, the desk or the bathroom, every space is a viewpoint and open to nature. Louvered shutters can be opened completely, blurring the lines between building and nature, or closed for privacy. King sized beds are the perfect place for an afternoon siesta, or simply relax outside on your private deck. Bathrooms are fully equipped with rain showers and flushing toilets.

 

Inspired by the landscape which surrounds it, Jabali blends almost seamlessly with its environment. With minimal use of solid walls, the main areas are predominantly open with natural granite boulders providing privacy and shade – even when relaxing in camp you are still one with nature. An infinity pool is the perfect place to cool off on a hot afternoon and the spa will rejuvenate even the most tired limbs. Our chefs pride themselves on ensuring that everything served in Jabali is homemade, from our fresh breads, cakes, biscuits to fresh fruit salads, sorbets and homemade ice creams. You can choose a ‘bush bonnet’ picnic breakfast to enjoy during your morning game drive, or go for a cooked brunch back in camp.

Our light, buffet-style lunches served in the mess tent are popular in the heat of the day, and include plenty of salads with your main course. Delicious gourmet-style dinners are a three-course affair served outdoors under the stars. Please let us know if you have special dietary requirements – our camp chefs will be happy to cater for your needs as far as possible.

 

A Typical Day on Safari

The very best time for rewarding game viewing is in the cooler early mornings and late afternoons, when the animals are at their most active. Depending on the season, your day may start slightly earlier or later, but the general pace of life in camp is focused on giving you the very best possible game-viewing experience. If you have booked a private game-viewing vehicle do discuss personal schedule preferences with your guide.

 

05:30–06:00 Wake-up call with hot tea & coffee

06:30–07:00 Following breakfast, depart for a morning game drive or walk, or take a picnic breakfast with you and leave slightly earlier

09:30–11:30 Arrive back in camp after game viewing, followed by breakfast (if you wish!)

12:30 Lunch

13:30–16:00 Siesta time: read a book or just relax

16:00 Afternoon tea

16:30 Depart for afternoon/evening game drive or walk with sundowners

18:30 Arrive back in camp

19:30 Drinks at the bar followed by dinner under the stars)

 

Includes: all meals, all house drinks (except champagne), game drives, night drives, guided walks, transfers to/from nearest airstrip and to/from Jabali Ridge, limited laundry service. Asilia Lodges and Camps Ltd (TZ Camps) - Private use of 2 vehicle for the 12 guests at Jabali Ridge

 

Day 8 - 21 November, 2021

 

At a time to be advised by the camp manager, transfer to Msembe Airstrip to Mbuyu Airstrip in the Selous National Park. Upon arrival at Mbuyu Airstrip, we are met by the vehicles of Roho ya Selous, and transfer to our camp.

 

 

Set on a hill overlooking the water, Roho ya Selous sits in the very heart of the Selous Game Reserve. Explore this vast wilderness, home to one of Africa’s largest populations of wild dog, with our expert safari guides. The real magic of the Selous lies in the variety each day on safari brings.

Whether you’re exploring on a game drive in search of leopard lurking in the shady boughs of a fig tree, or out on foot tracking wildlife that’s ventured close to camp during the night, this reserve is full of surprises. With just eight canvas tented rooms, each with air-cooling systems over your bed to ensure a peaceful night’s sleep in the hotter months, Roho ya Selous strikes the perfect balance between comfort and adventure.

Tucked away into the trees, each of the eight tents are set far apart to maximise privacy. They are stylish and spacious, measuring an impressive 60m² inside. Thoughtful details include an evening breeze cooling system over the bed to allow you to sleep peacefully even during the hotter months, and a beautiful wall hanging separating the en-suite bathroom, complete with indoor and outdoor shower. A veranda offers a shady spot to unwind during the heat of the day and watch game as it passes through camp.

Balancing comfort and a dose of adventure, Roho ya Selous offers seasoned travellers an authentic safari experience in a prime position in the Selous Game Reserve. The name Roho ya Selous means “the heart of Selous” and what better place to base yourself for a safari than in this vast wilderness. Mixing indoor and outdoor living, it is the perfect space for some quiet contemplation to complement your adventures out on safari.

The open-sided mess area under stretched canvas offers plentiful shade and catches the breeze whichever way the wind is blowing. In the evening gather at the mess tent to share stories of your day’s adventures with fellow guests, enjoying a delicious dinner surrounded by the night-time sounds of the bush.

All of our meals are prepared in camp by our resident chefs, and are usually enjoyed communally. Breakfast is served buffet-style so you can choose from a lighter start to your day or a full cooked breakfast if you’ve worked up an appetite on your early morning safari. Light buffet-style lunches in camp include fresh salads and vegetables with your main course. Tea and cake at 4pm are a camp tradition and set you up for your afternoon safari, and dinner is a relaxed three-course affair, often served under the African night sky.

From elephants swimming across rivers to coming across a pride of lions with cubs play-fighting in the grass, there is rarely a dull moment on safari in the Selous. Add to that the thrill of encountering wildlife on foot, or the surprise of a hippo emerging from the water with a snort just a few metres away from your boat and you’ll see why a safari here is so memorable.

The Selous is renowned for the diversity of its safari activities, allowing you the chance to mix and match each day. Choosing between game drives, boat safaris and walking safaris each morning and afternoon, you will be accompanied by expert guides who will really showcase the beauty of this reserve and its resident flora and fauna.

The very best time for rewarding game viewing is in the cooler early mornings and late afternoons, when the animals are at their most active. Depending on the season, your day may start slightly earlier or later, but the general pace of life in camp is focused on giving you the very best possible game-viewing experience. If you have booked a private game-viewing vehicle do discuss personal schedule preferences with your guide.

Best for exploring further afield and searching for larger mammals and predators, game drives are a rewarding option for your safari. Using seven-seater open-sided vehicles with tiered seating, every guest is assured of an uninterrupted view of the wildlife. There is a roof for shade, power points for charging your devices and fridges to keep your sundowner drinks deliciously cool.

Immerse yourself completely in the rugged environment of the Selous on a walking safari accompanied by an armed expert guide, taking in the smaller details and tracking wildlife on foot. No safari in the Selous is complete without a trip out on the water, passing pods of hippo in the shallows and crocodiles sunning themselves on sandbanks. Watch wildlife come to drink from the ultimate perspective, and enjoy drifting up close to bird colonies nesting in the riverbanks or on small islands.

Combine your boat safari with a bit of fishing, a relaxing way to spend an hour or so in the afternoon. The rivers are home to good populations of tiger fish as well as various species of catfish.

Imagine going to sleep at night with only the sounds of the African bush around you, and the only lights the stars overhead. Asilia is one of very few operators to offer you the exceptional, highly adventurous option of fly camping. A night at your own personal campsite deep in the bush gives you a true wilderness experience: there is nothing between you and the African bush.

Includes: all meals, all house drinks (except champagne), game drives, guided walks, boating safaris, fishing, transfers to/from Mbuyu and Siwandu airstrips and to/from Roho ya Selous, limited laundry service. Asilia Conservation Charge Selous Game Reserve Concession Fee, Selous Game Reserve Entry, Tanzanian Tourism Development Levy

Day 11 Wednesday 24 November 2021

At at a time to be advised, we transfer to Mbuyu Airstrip for our flight to Julius Nyerere International Airport (Dar es Salaam) where our safari ends.

 

Safari Costs:-  $9,725 per person sharing

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Optional 3 Night Excursion to Zanzibar Island

  

Day 1 – 24 November 2021

 

For those folks who would like to experience The Spice Island – Zanzibar…. Continue from Julius Nyerere International Airport (Dar es Salaam) to Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (Zanzibar) (light aircraft). (Flight included in quoted costs). Upon arrival we are met by a company representative, and do a private toad transfer to Matemwe Lodge where we will be staying for the next 5 nights in Luxury Suites!

Includes: Breakfast & dinner, tea, coffee and filtered drinking water, guided reef walks and guided cultural village walks, kayaking.

Perched on an outcrop overlooking a shallow, coral-fringed lagoon on the quiet northeastern coast of Zanzibar Island, Matemwe Lodge’s blissful location and famously relaxed atmosphere make it the ideal place to unwind. Whether you take a break in a hammock or dive the depths of the Indian Ocean, Matemwe Lodge provides an unbeatable island escape.

Built using local materials and surrounded by beautiful lush gardens, each of the 12 chalets at Matemwe Lodge has a private veranda with hammock and sofa, where you can relax and take in the spectacular views of the sparkling Indian Ocean. Secluded Matemwe Beach on the northeastern coast of the island is perfectly situated opposite the spectacular diving and snorkelling reefs of the Mnemba Atoll and surrounded by some of the best beaches in Zanzibar.

Privacy and exclusivity are paramount at Matemwe, where the beach is still one of the quieter and more exclusive locations on the island.

A 30-minute boat ride away is Mnemba Island and the world-renowned coral reef that provides some of the most spectacular diving and snorkelling in the world, with a high chance of seeing turtles and wild dolphins, in addition to the colourful reef fish that dart around the coral. Matemwe is just 60 minutes’ drive from Stone Town, allowing for easy day trips into the winding streets of the historic town, and excursions to all corners of this fascinating island.

 

A Typical Day at Matemwe Lodge

Your days at Matemwe can be spent sitting poolside and sipping on cocktails, or they could have a more adventurous flavor.

You might be interested in going for a snorkel or walking through Stone Town: it all depends on what you’re looking for!

Days can be as action-packed or as relaxing as you desire. With so many exciting activities and excursions to choose from, you’ll be spoiled for choice. When you’re not out sampling the various cultural and aquatic activities, you can enjoy some pampering at the spa or a lazy afternoon beside the pool.

Set in lush tropical grounds and just meters from the Indian Ocean, there is plenty for guests of all ages to explore and enjoy. Guests can choose to relax beside the smaller infinity pool enjoying views over the ocean, or head to the larger pool area which leads off the main bar – ideal for families.

Explore the coral reef and its rock pools during low tide, sail off on a traditional dhow, snorkel or dive the pristine Mnemba Atoll or take a kayak for a leisurely paddle to explore the island coastline.

All our food is sourced locally (including fruit and vegetables), and seafood is bought from local suppliers who use sustainable techniques. This means, for example, that we do not buy net- or spear-caught fish but only that caught on lines. Meals are a mix of gourmet-style cooking and traditional Zanzibari cuisine with loads of seafood. The buffet-style breakfast includes fresh fruit, muffins, croissants, cereal and yoghurts as well as a full English breakfast.

Lunch and dinner are three-course meals: choose between two starters, three main dishes (including a meat, fish and vegetarian option) and two desserts. Tuesdays and Fridays are barbecue night (with a range of seafood and meats) and Sunday is a Swahili buffet, offering a large selection of traditional dishes.

Day 4 - Saturday 27 November 2021

At a time to be advised, we transfer from Matemwe Lodge to Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (Zanzibar) and connect with our onward flight to Dar es Salaam, (Included in quoted costs)  back to our respective home destinations.

 

Costs:- Optional 3 Night Excursion to Zanzibar Island:- $996 per person