A Must Visit Location

Tanzania, or as it was previously known, Tanganyika, is the 13^th largest country of Africa.  It is situated on the east coast of Africa, just south of the Equator.  Tanzania is a must visit location with an abundance of tourist opportunities.  At Luxury Women’s Tours, we are excited to be offering this incredible location in August 2023.  So, read on to learn a little about this amazing location …

To start with, Tanzania is the home of what is known as ‘The Big 5 Game’ – being elephants, lions, leopards, buffalo and rhinos.  In fact, in Serengeti National Park you will very little see all of these.  As a protected area (about 40% of the country is protected for conservation) you will see much more than ‘The Big 5’ as there is so much to see, from birdlife, small mammals and everything in between.  See colourful pink flamingos, elegant giraffes, wildebeests, antelopes, cheetahs, hippos and many gazelles.  You might even see crocodiles, chimpanzees and gorillas.  It’s not uncommon at the right time of year to see babies all around, from lion cubs to baby elephants.  If you’re lucky, you might even spot a cheetah momma with a couple of cubs.  A national park safari is an absolute must when you visit Tanzania.  There are literally millions of animals roaming and migrating across the plains.  

At night, it’s not unusual to hear elephants, the ever scavenging hyenas and, of course, the roar of a lion.  The jungle comes to life at night and the array of sounds are absolutely incredible.  It’s truly a wonderful experience. 

Tanzania has many facets; from the plains of the Serengeti, you can then travel to a number of its mountains, including Africa’s highest mountain, Mt Kilimanjaro and then visit some of its spectacular beaches.  Whilst the weather is quite warm on the plains, and definitely swimming warm on the coast, it is quite surprising how cool it can get in the mountains, even after quite a small climb.  If you’re heading that way, be sure to pack your thermals and winter woollies, as is especially cold at night once you reach higher elevations.  It’s rather incredible that you’ll experience many very distinct ecological systems; cultivated land, rainforest, alpine desert, and arctic summit.

In the mountains, the foliage changes to be somewhat more dense and green – almost like a rainforest.  The air is clear and the views are incredible.  A number of villages can be found along your way; with the people being very friendly and warm, despite the poverty they experience.  Also, be sure not to pack any plastic bags, including ziplock bags as these are banned; the African government is very serious about protecting the environment.  Fabric bags for shopping are most welcome.  If you’re into chips, coke and other snacks, be sure to stock up before you head up to any of the mountain areas, or villages; these ‘western’ foods really cannot be found there.   

As you head more eastward towards the coast, and Tanzania’s capital city, Dar es Salaam.  The beaches in this region are a wonderful surprise.  Personally, I think they equal anything in the Caribbean for their light turquoise coloured beauty.  The water is warm most of the year round and very enticing for a swim.  So along with your thermals, you’ll also want to slip in some bikinis too!   

Welcome to Zanzibar Island!

A short ferry ride from the mainland you’re at Zanzibar Island.  It feels like you’re almost in a completely different country.  The first thing you’ll notice is that many of the women and girls wear face coverings and long coverings.  Unlike the mainland which is primarily Christian; this island is predominantly Muslin.  

Having said that, the tourists are well catered to in the many cafés and restaurants where you can relax and enjoy a lovely afternoon of drinks, wonderful food and excellent companionship of your co-travelers.  Afterall, one of the many perks of travelling with Luxury Women’s Tours is getting to experience the wonders of Tanzania and Zanzibar with like minded ladies just like you!  

Zanzibar is also an excellent place to shop.  Zanzibar is known for its violet/blue (and sometimes burgundy) colours gemstones called Tanzanite.  You will see some absolutely gorgeous pieces in a range of shops on the island.  

If you’re up for something more than eating, drinking, swimming and shopping, then check out some of the wonders of Stone Town.  Many of the stone builders date back to the late 1800’s with interesting architecture that features wooden doors, tall columns and shady verandahs around the outside of the building.  It’s not uncommon to have a balcony to your room, which opens up to balmy sea breezes – remember you are on an island!  Nungwi Beach has been rated one of the best in the world and it’s absolutely picturesque.  Taking a leisurely walk is a must, or if you’re feeling a little more energetic, then slip on your running shoes and head off for a jog.

There are markets (Darajani Market is famous for its range of many spices), fishing villages, lovely walks and, of course, many activities on the beaches, such as snorkeling, catamaran rides, kite surfing and scuba diving.  Or, simply lay back and enjoy a wonderful massage.  

Whether you’ve spent the day shopping along cobblestone little shops which encompass both luxury and uniqueness, swimming in warm pale turquoise waters or wandering the markets.  You may well be seeing some of the many sites, but then do be sure to be on the beach for what is known as the ‘golden hour’.  Grab yourself a drink, a chair, and enjoy the unforgettable sunset and enjoy the show of nature! 

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This trip is sure to tick an incredible number of boxes for any traveller and tourist.  Seeing wildlife in their natural habitat – and yes, you might get up close and personal on some occasions is just nothing like going to the zoo.  It’s an experience.  Be sure to take a great camera, or a quality phone these days has exceptional camera quality.  You’ll experience different cultures, friendly and warm faces and then succumb to the charms of Zanzibar Island.  

At Luxury Women’s Tours, we naturally organise everything for you.  We curate the best of the best and put together a trip you will absolutely enjoy.  Remember it’s luxury, so you won’t be roughing it or doing things the hard way; going first class all the way.  We ensure you stay safe (although quite honestly, in my trips here I’ve always felt very safe) and we’ll make sure everything runs smoothly.  We’re here to not just guide you, but to ensure all the bases are covered.  There are Visas to be organised and for your own safety you will need some immunisation; but talk to us about this; it’s easily organised and we’ll advise you of what is required.  As always with Luxury Women’s Tours, we’re travelling as a group, so you get to share the experiences, wonders (and many incredible photo) with your new friends.  

This is one of those trips you just will not want to miss out on and we know it will be incredibly popular – so be sure to reach out to us at jamie@luxurywomenstours.com.au to reserve your spot soon or ask any questions which you might have.  Afterall, who can go past wildlife safaris, beaches, spectacular golden sunsets, wilderness, clear pristine and green filled mountains, shopping, an array of local artwork and exceptional food?