Tanzania
Endless herds of plains game set against a backdrop of sublime grandeur
In East Africa’s largest nation, over a quarter of land is protected as a game reserve, national park, or controlled area. For the wildlife enthusiast Tanzania is an Eden, home to two of the world’s most famous wilderness areas - Ngorongoro Crater and the Serengeti. A country of great contrasts, in the southern parts lie relatively unknown, remote safari destinations and the coastline offers stunning islands and great cultural history. With a quickly developing tourism industry, Tanzania boasts a number of highly luxurious camps with cutting-edge architectural designs along with the more established and traditional old-settler lodges.
The 14,500 square kilometres of the Serengeti is arguably the mother of all game reserves. The Serengeti has the greatest concentration of plains game anywhere, with nearly two million wildebeest, zebra and gazelle migrating through its ecosystem per year. With vast herds to feed off, the national park is also renowned for its volume of lions and other predators, meaning the daily dramas of life and death are played out in vivid detail. Also in the Northern circuit lies the Ngorongoro crater, the largest volcanic caldera in the world. On the crater floor reside a diverse range of mammal species amongst Acacia forests, grasslands and salt pans - expect spectacular views of a highly unique ecosystem.
Summit a equatorial snow capped mountain or relax on a white sand island
If looking for a more off the beaten track experience, the quieter central and southern parts of Tanzania entice with wild and remote landscapes. Ruaha National Park offers unspoilt wilderness and the Ruaha River has one of the largest hippo populations in Africa. The Selous Game reserve in the south has limited accessibility; only reachable by small aircraft the area remains an untouched gem. The Selous is perfect for the more intrepid traveller, who seeks distance from the bustle of more well-known safari destinations. Another of Tanzania’s unique offerings is the opportunity to trek with chimpanzees. On the shores of Lake Tanganyika in the spectacular western Mahale Mountains reside a thriving population of wild and habituated chimpanzees. This extraordinary adventure is truly remote and original.
Tanzania’s fantastic safari destinations are only part of its offering. Those seeking a challenge and adventure may choose to climb the iconic snow capped Mount Kilimanjaro, the tallest peak in Africa (5,895m/19,340ft). Hike through dense forests, witness unique flower and tree species and view beautiful blue glaciers before reaching the awe-striking summit point. How better to relax after the intrepid climb or a busy safari than to visit the historical coastal island of Zanzibar. On the so-called Spice Island, Arab and Bantu cultures merge with beautiful architecture and some of the most luxurious beach accommodation in the whole of Africa. Pemba and Mafia islands to the north and south respectively, are more remote and undiscovered, celebrated for their fantastic scuba-diving opportunities.
Unassuming luxury in the middle of the wild
Whether you dream of visiting Tanzania’s famous northern circuit or seek the country’s quieter southern counterpart, the camps and accommodation Everwild handpick exude excellence. From intimate 1920s-style explorer’s camps to high-style contemporary escapes, infinity pools overlooking the great plains to lavish libraries which emanate old world charm, Tanzania has lodges and camps for all tastes.