Tag: Walking Safari

What Makes a Tarangire National Park Safari Special?

Accommodation,Safari,Tanzania
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By Michelle Welvering on

Is it worth going to Tarangire National Park? Well, if you’re seeking an off-the-beaten-path safari experience in Tanzania, Tarangire National Park should be at the top of your list! With its unique features, this region offers a truly special adventure. Let’s explore what sets Tarangire apart and why it is a must-visit destination for safari enthusiasts.

Elephant sighting while on a game drive

Savour the solitude on a Tarangire National Park safari, Image Credit: Little Chem Chem

What is the Difference Between Tarangire and the Serengeti National Park?

While the Serengeti National Park steals the show by being host to the Great Migration, Tarangire dances to its own beat. Why? Well, one notable difference is that Tarangire lets you double the safari fun by pairing it with a visit to the nearby avian wonder of Lake Manyara – famous for its pink appearance thanks to a profusion of flamingos flocking to its waters. 

Plus, Tarangire’s offbeat vibe means fewer crowds and more elbow room to enjoy a safari experience that feels like your very own secret escape.

Flamingos flying over Lake Manyara

Flamingos wade through Lake Manyara’s waters alongside pods of hippos

Tarangire National Park’s Claim to Fame

Tarangire is famous for its large elephant herds, with some groups numbering up to 300 individuals. Witnessing these gentle giants in their natural habitat is a sight to behold and a highlight of any visit. Moreover, the national park is home to ancient rock art paintings, which offer a glimpse into the region’s rich cultural heritage.

Elephants at a waterhole

Tarangire is particularly famous for its large elephant herds, Image Credit: Tarangire Treetops

The Best Time to Visit Tarangire National Park

The dry season, from June to October, is widely considered the best time to embark on your Tarangire National Park safari. During this period, the wildlife density is exceptional as the Tarangire River remains the sole water source in the area. Witness incredible sightings as animals congregate around the river and sporadic waterholes.

Wildlife congregates nervously around scarce water sources, Image Credit: Little Chem Chem

The dry season also offers pleasant weather conditions, with mild temperatures and minimal rainfall. This makes it easier to navigate the national park and enjoy outdoor activities comfortably. However, even during the wetter months, Tarangire retains its allure, with lush landscapes and migratory bird species enhancing the overall safari experience.

Aerial view of giraffe in a lush green landscape

A Tarangire National Park safari is just as mesmerising during the rainy season, Image Credit: Little Chem Chem

Safari Activities in Tarangire National Park

Game drives in Tarangire National Park are a popular choice, providing you with the opportunity to explore the area’s vast plains and various habitats. However, Tarangire is probably most popular for its walking safaris. These guided walks allow you to observe the national park’s flora and fauna up close, providing a deeper connection to nature.

Hot air balloon safari floating above zebra

Gaze down on wildlife from the sky, Image Credit: Little Chem Chem

Alternatively, some camps and lodges offer photographic safaris, hot air balloon trips, helicopter flights, private bush dining in the wilderness, Maasai cultural experiences, and canoe safaris.

Canoe safari on Lake Gursi

Experience the beauty of Tanzania from a unique perspective on a canoe safari, Image Credit: Sanctuary Swala Camp

Wildlife in Tarangire National Park

Tarangire National Park awakens as the rains recede and the dry season takes hold. During the months of July and August, Africa’s majestic elephants migrate in great numbers, creating a paradise for those who adore these gentle giants.

Furthermore, Tarangire teems with an abundance of plains game, and as the dry season progresses, hundreds of buffalo emerge, adding to the extraordinary spectacle. With ten percent of the national park encompassing vast swamp lands, all creatures, big and small, flock to the water’s edge to quench their thirst and seek respite from the scorching heat.

Elephant herd seen on a game drive

Witness herds of up to 300 elephants, Image Credit: Sanctuary Swala Camp

During this time, the predator-prey dynamic becomes evident. Lions stealthily patrol the fringes of the swamps, patiently awaiting the perfect moment to strike. The sweeping plains offer the ideal hunting grounds for lightning-fast cheetahs, while the towering presence of ancient baobab trees serves as a sanctuary for leopards, allowing them to keep their hard-earned kills away from the ever-vigilant hyenas.

Yet Tarangire’s allure extends far beyond its magnificent mammal life. The wide-ranging habitats provide a haven for nearly 500 bird species. Here, bird enthusiasts can indulge in the captivating sightings of the endangered rufous-tailed weaver, ashy starling, and a myriad of other feathered creatures.

Cheetah mother with two cubs

Predators are prolific in Tarangire National Park

Camps and Lodges in Tarangire National Park

Take a look at our curated list of lodgings amidst Tarangire National Park’s picturesque landscapes. From enchanting tented camps to opulent lodges, each offering its own distinctive charm, we make planning your Tanzania safari effortless and enjoyable. Find the perfect retreat to complement your African adventure.

Elevated viewing deck at Oliver's Camp

Choose from a variety of cosy tented camps and sumptuous lodges, Image Credit: Oliver’s Camp

Plan Your Own Tarangire National Park Safari

Immerse yourself in an exclusive, intimate, and unforgettable Tanzania safari at Tarangire National Park. If your heart yearns for solitude amidst Africa’s most sought-after creatures, our team of Travel Experts is here to assist you in planning your Tarangire National Park safari. Reach out to us today and embark on your extraordinary adventure.

Featured Image: Little Chem Chem

Top 5 Walking Safaris in Africa

Safari
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By Michelle Welvering on

Embark on an extraordinary adventure through the untamed heartlands of Africa, where the primal connection between man and nature comes alive. This is the realm of walking safaris in Africa, where you, intrepid explorer, can immerse yourself in the rhythms of the wild and witness the continent’s beauty up close and on your own two feet.

Walking safari with a Maasai warrior

Discover nature like the explorers of old, by going on a walking safari in Africa, Image Credit: Cottar’s 1920s Camp

1. Zambia: South Luangwa National Park – The Home of the Walking Safari

In Zambia’sSouth Luangwa National Park, a walking safari is not just an activity but a way of life. This iconic destination is considered the birthplace of walking safaris, and here, you’ll have the privilege of traversing the untamed landscapes on foot, guided by experienced and knowledgeable rangers.

As you venture into the wilderness, you’ll witness an extraordinary abundance of wildlife, from packs of African wild dogs to prides of lions. The Luangwa River, with its meandering channels and lush vegetation, adds to the enchantment, making South Luangwa a paradise for photographers and nature enthusiasts alike.

Guests on a walking safari observing wild dogs

Lace up your hiking boots for the original up-close-and-personal safari experience at South Luangwa, Image Credit: Tafika Camp

2. Kenya: A Walking Safari in the Land of the Maasai Mara

Kenya’sMaasai Mara National Reserve, with its sweeping grasslands and teeming wildlife, offers an immersive walking safari experience. Accompanied by Maasai guides, you’ll traverse the vast savannahs, encountering magnificent creatures such as giraffes, zebras, and wildebeests.

Witness the iconic Great Wildebeest Migration, where millions of wildebeests and zebras embark on a treacherous journey across the Mara River. The Maasai people, with their vibrant culture and deep connection to the land, add an invaluable dimension to your safari experience, making it truly unforgettable.

Walking safari with Maasai naturalist

Discover the wonders of Kenya’s wilderness on foot with traditional Maasai naturalists, Image Credit: Angama Mara

3. Botswana: Okavango Delta – A Water and Land Adventure

In Botswana’s mesmerising Okavango Delta, a walking safari is a harmonious blend of water and land exploration. This unique ecosystem, characterised by vast floodplains and labyrinthine channels, invites you to traverse its pristine wilderness on foot, guided by expert trackers.

Witness the incredible diversity of wildlife congregating around the delta, from elephants wading through the waterways to graceful antelope grazing on the banks. As you navigate this watery wonderland, you’ll discover a myriad of birdlife and perhaps even catch a glimpse of the elusive predators that call this delta home.

Walking safari in the Okavango Delta

Walk along ancient wildlife paths and focus on the intricacies of the bush, Image Credit: Wilderness Vumbura Plains

4. South Africa: Greater Kruger National Park and Beyond

South Africa, renowned for its captivating landscapes, offers a wealth of walking safari opportunities. In the Greater Kruger National Park, one of Africa’s premier safari destinations, you’ll have the chance to explore the vast wilderness with highly trained guides. Traverse the ancient paths of the Big 5 and encounter other remarkable creatures, all while soaking in the breathtaking vistas of the African bush.

Additionally, in the Western Cape, the Gondwana Game Reserve beckons, offering a unique walking safari experience nestled within the fynbos-clad hills and valleys. The chance to witness rare and endemic species sets this destination apart, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts.

Walking safari in the Kruger with an elephant sighting

Walking safaris in Africa provide the perfect way to view wildlife at eye level, Image Credit: Rhino Walking Safaris

5. Namibia: Damaraland – An Enchanting Desert Safari

Namibia’sDamaraland unveils a dazzling landscape where walking safaris are a gateway to the sublime beauty of the desert. Guided by local experts, you’ll trek through ancient valleys, discover secret rock art sites, and witness the surreal rock formations of Brandberg Mountain.

As you traverse the arid plains, keep an eye out for the elusive desert-adapted wildlife that has learned to thrive in this harsh environment. Witness the majestic desert-adapted elephants as they navigate the stark landscapes with remarkable resilience.

Guest and game ranger quietly observing a rhino

Encounter rhinos and an array of other wildlife in this boulder-strewn environment, Image Credit: Desert Rhino Camp

Your Walking Safari in Africa Awaits

At Rhino Africa, we’re passionate about crafting tailor-made walking safaris that fulfil your wildest dreams. Our team of Travel Experts will guide you through the selection process, ensuring that your chosen destination aligns perfectly with your desires and preferences. So, lace up your boots, open your heart to the untamed wilderness, and let us be your trusted partner on an unforgettable walking safari in Africa. The journey awaits.

Feature Image: Little Governors’ Camp

Wildlife Paradise Gonarezhou National Park

Experiences,Safari,Zimbabwe
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By Michelle Welvering on

Escape the beaten path and uncover Africa’s best-kept secret with a Gonarezhou National Park safari. This hidden wildlife paradise, nestled away in the southeastern corner of Zimbabwe is one of the last remaining true wilderness areas in Africa. Get ready for an abundance of animals that will leave you absolutely spellbound.

Massive elephant crossing a river in Gonarezhou National Park

You’ll soon understand why the locals named it “Place of many elephant”, Image Credit: Chilo Gorge Safari Lodge

Africa’s Best-Kept Secret

We just love this untouched pocket of nature because, unlike many of the better-known national parks in Africa, Gonarezhou remains largely unexplored and undiscovered. And, when you embark on a Gonarezhou National Park safari you’ll have the rare chance to experience Africa’s natural beauty in its purest form.

River and land landscape of Gonarezhou National Park

Gonarezhou National Park is a vast wilderness spanning some 500,000ha, Image Credit: Chilo Gorge Safari Lodge

Gonarezhou National Park Activities

From baobab-studded plains to dense riverine forests, every corner of the 500,000ha Gonarezhou boasts a unique mix of ecosystems and an array of wildlife including lion, cheetah, hyena, and wild dog. And, with so much land to explore and animals to discover, this pristine region presents a plethora of exciting activities in which to indulge.

Elephants in the river close to Chilo Gorge Safari Lodge

Fascinating cliffs, rivers and waterfalls are home to an array of wildlife, Image Credit: Chilo Gorge Safari Lodge

1. Game Drives

Start your day with an early game drive through vast landscapes, which is just one of the many thrilling Gonarezhou National Park activities available. Away from the monotonous hum of numerous safari vehicles and the ceaseless clicking of cameras, you’re unlikely to come across another vehicle during you safari journey.

Guests gathering for a sundowner in the wilderness after their game drive

A wildlife haven all to your own, Image Credit: Chilo Gorge Safari Lodge

2. Chilojo Cliffs Walking Safari

A must-do activity when on a Gonarezhou National Park safari is a walking safari to the Chilojo Cliffs. Made of crimson sandstone, the Chilojo Cliffs are smack dab in the middle of the Gonarezhou National Park, right by the Runde River, and in a place where you can spend the entire day exploring.

Walking safari through Gonarezhou National Park

There is no better way to explore an area than on foot, Image Credit: Chilo Gorge Safari Lodge

Watch exotic birds in their natural habitat at the Tembahata and Machanu Water Pans, and witness massive herds of majestic elephants and boisterous buffalos. Thereafter, Indulge in a delectable picnic lunch while soaking in the stunning views before capping off the day with a sundowner game drive back to your luxury lodge.

Elephants frolicking in a water pan

A unique mix of ecosystems including water pans attracting an array of wildlife, Image Credit: Chilo Gorge Safari Lodge

3. Exhilarating River Crossings

One of the most adventurous aspects of a Gonarezhou National Park safari is the river crossings, where you’ll encounter crocodiles and hippos as you traverse the national park’s winding waterways. But don’t worry – your expert guide knows the area like the back of his hand and will ensure your safety at all times.

Hippo wallowing in the river

Opt for an exhilarating river crossing or boat safari, Image Credit: Chilo Gorge Safari Lodge

4. Experience the Magic of Fly Camping

Spend your evenings camped out under the stars. Enjoy bush picnics in the shade of a baobab tree or set up camp near the stunning Chilojo Cliffs for a magical fly camping experience. As the sun sets, you’ll be surrounded by the sounds of nature and the sights of the starry sky, truly immersing you in the wild.

Photo of a tree and starry night

Listening to the night sounds is the best way to merge oneself with nature, Image Credit: Chilo Gorge Safari Lodge

5. Bird Watching

Be mesmerised by over 450 species, including regal Kingfishers, majestic Eagles, and fierce Raptors, soaring above the Chilojo Cliffs and vast water pans. Observe waterbirds gracefully gliding through the rivers, while Turacos and Parrots add a splash of colour to the dense riverine. A Gonarezhou National Park safari is a birder’s dream!

Close-up image of a King fisher with catch

The water pans are just bursting with life, Image Credit: Chilo Gorge Safari Lodge

6. Community Visits

Discover the vibrant heart of a local community and be awed by their colourful customs and timeless traditions! Journey through schools and clinics, mingle with friendly villagers, and immerse yourself in the authentic rhythms of daily village life in one of Zimbabwe’s most remote corners.

Traditional drums being played by villagers

Enjoy a colourful and informative visit to a local village, Image Credit: Chilo Gorge Safari Lodge

Gonarezhou National Park Safari

Gonarezhou National Park is an untouched wilderness where nature reigns supreme. So, if you’re looking for a place to experience Africa’s natural beauty in all its wild and untamed glory, contact us now, because a Gonarezhou National Park safari should be at the top of your list!

Top Safari Activities in South Luangwa National Park

Safari,Zambia
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By Michelle Welvering on

Prepare yourself for an enchanting escape through the wondrous South Luangwa National Park – a veritable jewel of African wildlife sanctuaries and one of our personal favourites! This enormous area, spanning an impressive 9,050km², sits serenely at the end of the majestic Great Rift in Zambia, embracing the Luangwa River with open arms. With a cornucopia of natural splendour and a diverse menagerie of creatures at your fingertips, it’s no surprise that South Luangwa National Park is a prevailing destination for heart-pounding game viewing and exclusive safari experiences of unparalleled extravagance.

Guests enjoying drinks and snacks sitting on the shallow waters of the river at sunset

An exclusive safari experience in an unspoilt environment, Image Credit: Zungulila Bushcamp

South Luangwa National Park – Wildlife

Brimming with exuberance and fueled by the life-giving Luangwa River, which boasts the most unspoiled river system on the continent, South Luangwa National Park’s expansive savannah grasslands are home to over 60 species of wildlife. The national park is renowned for its remarkable density of highly coveted animal sightings, including Thornicroft’s giraffe, Crawshay’s zebra and the illustrious Big 5 (lion, elephant, buffalo, rhino, and leopard).

Elephants walking the open plains

South Luangwa is widely regarded as one of Africa’s finest wildlife sanctuaries, Image Credit: Time + Tide

For the best Big 5 game-viewing experience, head to the Valley’s oxbow pools. Luangwa is a dry-season destination. During the rainy season, the Luangwa River swells up and leaves behind watering holes and lush vegetation as the drier seasons approach. As a result, waves of wildlife congregate at these sporadic water sources, ensuring an excellent game-viewing experience.

Hippos and a massive herd of buffalo at a water source

The Valley’s oxbow pools are the best place to go for game-viewing, Image Credit: Mwamba Bush Camp

South Luangwa National Park – Walking Safari

Step away from the conventional 4×4 vehicles and lace up your hiking boots for a profound walking safari in South Luangwa National Park – an experience this region pioneered and remains famous for. Here, you’ll cross paths with Thornicroft’s giraffe, Crawshay’s zebra, powerful lions, antelopes, buffalos, and mighty elephants. It’s a great opportunity to relish nature in all its authentic glory.

A walking safari in South Luangwa National Park past hippos in a lake

A walking safari in South Luangwa National Park is an intimate way to spot wildlife, Image Credit: Mwamba Bush Camp

With its remote location and limited number of visitors allowed, South Luangwa offers a pristine walking safari escapade that’s genuinely unparalleled. And the national park continues to wear the crown as the ultimate destination in Africa for those who desire to traverse big-game terrain on foot and entirely immerse themselves in the natural world.

Walking safari at sunset

South Luangwa is considered the birthplace of walking safaris, Image Credit: Zungulila Bushcamp

South Luangwa National Park – Game Drives

We highly recommend a walking safari in South Luangwa National Park. It will get you up close and personal with nature’s finest. But if you’re craving a bit of variety, mix things up with a couple of game drives too! With an expansive wilderness waiting to be explored, game drives offer the perfect chance to cover more ground.

Game drive sighting of a yawning lion

South Luangwa National Park is home to 60 species of animals including the Big 5, Image Credit: Time + Tide

And trust us, viewing wildlife from an open 4×4 is incredibly comfortable. High seats provide unbeatable all-around vision and make it easy to capture those picture-perfect moments! With experienced guides, you can venture off the beaten path to game-rich areas where you’ll discover hidden wildlife gems seldom seen on foot.

Game Drive in South Luangwa National Park

Get elevated views on a 4×4 game drive vehicle, Image Credit: Time + Tide

South Luangwa National Park – Birding

And boy, oh boy, walking safaris and game drives are just the tip of the rhino’s horn! Avid birders, get ready to brace yourself because South Luangwa’s bird-watching is like no other, with over 400 species to spot.

When the dry season draws to a close, the Luangwa River becomes a hub of activity for hundreds of frolicking waterfowls – from the majestic yellow-billed storks to grandiose pelicans. And let’s not forget about the striking saddle-billed storks, the elegant crowned cranes, and the stately goliath heron.

Pelican sighting while on a morning game drive

With over 400 species of birdlife, it’s the perfect bird-watching destination, Image Credit: Tafika Camp

As if that isn’t enough, dozens of migratory species like the red-chested cuckoo, the steppe eagle, and the steppe buzzard swoop in before the rains. On top of this, you’ll even spot hundreds of carmine bee-eaters nesting in the steep river banks. Talk about a utopia for twitchers!

Guests observing bee eaters from a bird hide on a riverbank

Observe carmine bee-eaters nesting from a bird hide, Image Credit: Tafika Camp

South Luangwa National Park –  Romance

This stunning safari destination’s sheer seclusion and intimacy make South Luangwa an ideal choice for a wild and unforgettable romance. As an unspoiled wilderness, where majestic rivers wind their way through rugged terrain and wildlife roams free, it’s a place where you can’t help but fall in love all over again.

Couple sitting on their private deck overlooking the river

Romantic moments on the tranquil Luangwa River, Image Credit: Time + Tide

Luxurious lodges lying along the tranquil Luangwa River offer soulmates the ultimate in pampering and relaxation. Indulge in couple spa treatments, savour private bush breakfasts, relish in lantern-lit dinners, and watch as the fiery sun dips below the horizon, painting the river in golden hues. It’s a magical setting for a wild romance.

Sunset on the river

A dreamy backdrop for you and your special someone, Image Credit: Zungulila Bushcamp

Where Dreams and Nature Intersect

South Luangwa National Park beckons with its irresistible charm and alluring wildlife. Remember, Africa is full of wonder, and it’s up to you to seek it out (with our help, of course!). So, what are you waiting for? Contact our Travel Experts, and let’s curate an exceptional wildlife experience of a lifetime. 

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