Tanzania, Adventure and Culture by Ian Williamson

Tanzania culture and adventure need not be found in the Tanzania safari, it can be found in everyday Tanzanian life.

Joshua with the enigmatic smile; Joshua sad sad Joshua. I met him in Northern Tanzania as several Pastors bickered at his fathers graveside as to who would actually conduct the service. Joshua's father was a nice man, he loved life and drink and women. He died very quickly from the HIV/Aids in a Tanzanian State Hospital. He was not particularly a religious man but occasionally visited several churches over the years. He was not big on commitment. Each Church now claimed this lifeless carcass as theirs to bury in the fertile Tanzania ground.

The one Pastor who could lay claim to this family's welfare kept quiet not wanting to shame himself nor the Tanzania church. It was the career pastors who bickered and whined. Life is hard in Tanzania and this was a chance for them to give a good sermon to a large audience.

I paid little attention, it was Tanzania's dry season. I looked for my friend from Southern Tanzania on the border of Zambia - Mama Lumuli - someone to speak to in English. All the Tanzania women were covered in their colorful Kangas; pulled up over their heads. The women were anonymous, a sea of colorful printed cotton. Maybe two hundred women - I would never find her.

So, my attention was drawn to the little boy, whose fathers body was now a point of depute. His mother was still young but poor. She was uneducated, had never held a job and was unemployable. She had six boys to worry about. The women grieved and mourned for the loss of the breadwinner. There is no social state in Tanzania. The father of Joshua maybe he was not a good father, but now he was gone; six boys to feed and school, the women wailed their grief.

Joshua looked up at me. He did not have an easy future ahead of him. His mother is resourceful though and she will have to be in order that her family survive.

There is a white teacher that comes sometimes from England. Usually around Easter he comes for a week maybe two. But he never notices this family and is more interested in the building rather than the community. Everyone posing for photographs and pretending always pretending.

The white uses his magic tricks, trickery, to entertain and to teach. The children love it the adults like it too. Although some think this is evil and believe the magic to be real. This man stays in my house. I speak English and have lived for some time in U.K. I also have two bathrooms with one of them having a sit down toilet. Usually we have the squat toilets, the Americans and the British do not like to squat they like to sit.

Once a white man brought some of his family. My house was very overcrowded. One night his daughter slept in the same room as her father. It was innocent, I made sure of that. But it shocked everyone in the community; shocked them to the very marrow of their bones. A grown man to sleep with his daughter is such a big shame. So very scandalous.

I am tired. I am more interested on how do I keep young Joshua fed and alive. No more children to die, this is what I want. My very good friend, his baby died last year because he didn't have US$50 to treat his daughter. When the white man from England found out he said he was very sorry. He was too. He liked my friends family.

I don't want this to happen again - a child to die for the want of a few dollars. I plan to leave this small town and move to the city. I have been offered a job in another place, away from my home but the money is good. So maybe I will be forced to move my lazy bones to this strange city. Don't get me wrong - I like the city - so it won't be a sacrifice - but I will miss the community.

About the Author

Tanzania information and Tanzania safaris and travel - for more information on the culture and travel in Tanzania see http://www.thejumapage.co.uk these interactive pages are for communal use. Free advise and information available from this site.

African Safari - A Thrilling Family Adventure by Earl Calvert

Nothing surpasses an African safari for a family adventure vacation. Far removed from the distractions of crowds and noise, a safari in Africa offers an adrenaline rush different from anything you have ever experienced.

In the Swahili language, the word "safari" means "trip" or "journey." Most of the time, it is used to describe an individual's or family's trip to visit distant relatives or friends. Non-Africans use the word safari to indicate a journey to Africa's game parks to view their magnificent wildlife.

Africa's Magnificent Game Parks ...

Africa is noted for its game parks. These parks are home to the largest concentrations of animals in the world. Your African safari will begin with a journey to one of these parks. Each park has its own unique characteristics, and your visit to any one of them will leave memories that last a lifetime.

Some of the more popular safari destinations include Masai Mara and Amboseli in Kenya, the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater in Tanzania, and the Kalahari Game Preserve and Chobe National Park in Botswana.

An Amazing Wildlife Spectacle ...

The world's most spectacular wildlife event takes place on the vast plains of east Africa. This event is the annual wildebeest migration. Each year, more than 1.4 million wildebeest make their journey from the vast Serengeti plains to the hills of Masai Mara. In addition, 200,000 zebra and gazelle accompany the wildebeest in their migration. These animals migrate in a clockwise direction covering over 1800 miles in their search for food and water. Africa's great predators relentlessly track these herds on their endless pilgrimage.

Sighting the "Big Five" ...

Quite often, visitors to Africa's game parks will spot each of the "Big Five" animals. These are the leopard, lion, elephant, rhino and buffalo. Big game hunters designated these animals as the "Big 5" because they are the most dangerous animals to hunt. In addition to these, you will see thousands of other animals including a variety of gazelle and antelope, hyena, giraffes, wart hog, and exotic bird life.

Many other options are available for your African Safari. Plan your safari now and have a memorable adventure with your family.

About the Author

Earl Calvert is a travel writer who's website, Family Vacations and Adventures, offers creative ideas for turning family vacations into family adventures. Here, you will find exciting options for your next family vacation.

The Great Wildebeest Migration of Maasai Mara by Robert Muhoho

The Clown of the Plains: Meet gnu, the Wildebeest.

The wildebeest is feted as the clown of the Savannah. Also known as a gnu, the animal has a structure resembling a young horse with a heavily built frontal shoulders and chest and a slender posterior. Its legs are so slender it's intriguing how it supports the proportionately larger body frame. The 'clown' title results from its unusual behavior considered to other bovids, for example a gnu herd will usually scatter in different directions when attacked by a lion. This makes it easier for the predator to isolate and strike. Its disproportionate structure does not help it either, and resembles a misfire in creation. It has some blurry long fur that flows on its unusually large head, front shoulders and inwardly bent horns to boot.

The Migration

What gives the gnu its worldwide repute is not its body structure however, but the sheer numbers and spectre created by its migration. The animals migrate between the Serengeti and Mara Savannahs in Tanzania and Kenya respectively, in search of grass and water. It is estimated that over 1 million of these animals are on the move during the annual migration between June and October. The numbers are so high that miles upon miles of grassland is blanketed by a mass of moving gnu. They simply stretch from one horizon to the next; of the conveniently flat and treeless Maasai Mara Savannah. It is a sight to behold when on your wildlife safari. The wildebeest migration phenomenon is so huge that satellites miles away in space are able to capture the surge as a black moving mass on the plains of East Africa. Now, that's huge: and it's even more awesome watching it on the ground or with Mara balloon Safaris.

River Crossing

The most dramatic and memorable safari experience is when you observe the migrating wildebeest/gnus at the several Mara river crossings. Numbers upon numbers gather at such crossings unsure of their next move. The crossings are such notorious spots that the gnus have developed a self preservation instinct over time. Wildebeests will amass in their thousands at banks of river Mara which is rife with the dreaded Nile crocodile and raging currents. Put in the swift current, eminent stampedes and jaw snapping crocodiles in this picture and you get a guaranteed recipe for mass genocide at such river crossings. The Maasai Mara River is usually awash with bloated mass of wildebeest carcass that crocodiles feast on for days on end.

Over 250,000 of the wildebeest die from drowning, stampede, crocodiles and the predators every year. But even this annual carnage is not enough to reduce their numbers.The wildebeest deaths during migration are replenished by the over 400,000 births a year. The deaths during migration are now considered as a natural population check; natural selection at its best.

Do and Die Point

River crossings in the Mara are favourite vantage points to observe the Mara wildebeest migration on your Kenyan safari. The animals will gather hesitantly in huge numbers on the banks, unsure of when to take the plunge. The other wildebeests behind the frontline keep amassing into hundreds of thousands until the pressure on the front is too much to bear.

They finally take the leap; and when they do, even the waiting crocodiles scatter to the flanks. The fear of being trampled by the millions of wildebeest is too real for even a crocodile to risk a head-on affront. Hundreds upon hundreds make death-daring- high leaps into the water, that the splash makes a swash like a million water falls.

The Wildebeest Predators.

Wildebeest Migration is such that a smattering population of other bovids, join in the migration including Zebras and Gazelles. Lion prides also escort (as they eat some, of course) and welcome the migrating wildebeest on either side of the Mara River Crossings. The lions stark up their stomachs with gnu carcass to a point, the prey subdues the prides in the plains with little fear. As long as a lion has had his 35 odd kilos of meat a day, he poses no threat. "All that is needed is to sacrifice a cousin here, a distant aunt there and we are fine." It's surely a game of numbers. Leopards on other hand, don't have to move far to hunt its prey. All they'll do is pounce on unsuspecting wildebeest as they pass by their (leopards) tree parches. The rest scatter as usual in different directions. "It's just another sacrifice after all; we still got the numbers... no matter what. This is one of the most elusive picture-perfect moments when you are on your African Wildlife Safari.

Visiting the Mara.

It's not only the carnivores that will escort migrating wildebeests but humans as well. The Maasai Mara attracts such interest that the ensuring demand during the months of June-October cannot be met. You will find it difficult to get a space in the lodges if you do not book in advance. Your accommodation in the Mara ranges from 4star to 5star deluxe lodges, tented camps and simple camping tents. You will need to do advance booking however; at least 3months will guarantee you a placement. Sometime, afew beds may be available for you on short notice, but this is unbankable. The wildebeest Migration takes place everyday of the 4(July-October) month duration. You are as such guaranteed a sighting irrespective of which month of the 4 you visit. Your bookings are handled by several very professional companies which also provide transportation and transfers from airports, self drive car hire and accommodation in the Mara. Make sure you see the migration the next time you make a Kenyan wildlife safari.

Among other safaris offered in Kenya include Beach safari and venture safaris, culture safari charity missions, nature safari wildlife safaris balloon safaris. Others include Kenya Camping Safaris and Kenya Lodge Safaris, Kenya Hotel bookings and Airport Shuttle Transfers, Tanzania Safaris and Car Rental in Kenya. Tour package Offering: Safari in Kenya whether Lodge or Camping Safari Kenya and Tanzania while on an -East African Wildlife Safaris Tour luxury Lodge or budget Camping, Beach Holidays East Africa Mt Kilimanjaro Climbing-Nairobi hotel bookings and airport shuttle transfers Nairobi Arusha moshi.

About the Author

Robert Muhoho is a tour consultant in Kenya, East Africa and a director to Landmark Safaris. For more info. visit www.landmarksafaris.com

Canoeing Safari In Tanzania by Jenny Gill

Have you ever been to Tanzania? Do you know it is? Arusha National Park is only a few Kilometers from Arusha and is a small but beautiful park set in the shadow of Mount Meru in Tanzania. There is a sting of lakes in this park and canoeing has recently been added to the tourist activities in this park.

One lake known as 'Small Momela' successful launched the canoeing safari this year. This is a great way to see the park from a new perspective. It is good to get out of your vehicle and actually get some exercise and get 'down and personal' with the African Bush. This chance to view the animals in their natural habitat should not be passed by.

The Tanzania Government have handed the operation of this canoeing safari to an Arusha based company called Green Footprints Adventure. These canoes can be booked direct or though your operator, or even you driver/guide will be able to organize this mini-adventure for you. From the lake you are able to get a closer look at hippos and the amazing bird life that normally would go unnoticed from your safari vehicle.

Even though this park is very accessible the parks authority claim only 7,000 visitors in 1995 this has dramatically increased to an expected 50,000 for this year. Lying between the peaks of Kilimanjaro and Meru, Arusha National Park is outstandingly beautiful, with a wide range of habitats, form a string of crater lakes where many water birds can be watched through the highland mountain forest to the imposing summit of Mount Meru at 4,500 meters above sea level.

The forest contains a wealth of birds and other animals like the bushbuck which are easily glimpsed between ancient cedar trees or the striking black and white colobus monkeys climbing along their branches. The interesting geology of the area is reflected in the impressive view of the ash cone and cliff face leading to the summit of Mount Meru.

Those who ascend the summit of the mountain are rewarded with unparalleled views of the majestic Mt. Kilimanjaro and the Rift Valleys. It would be a most exciting holiday to go to this most underrated park as it is very accessible to any itinerary based in the north of Tanzania and you will be continually amazed at what you see.

Author: Jenny Gill is an international author with vast experience in a diverse range of subjects, for more information visit www.canoeingsyte.com

Africa Has A Wealth Of Safari Vacation Choices by Chris Snow

Taking a safari vacation is one of the most exotic options available. Deep in the heart of Africa is Tanzania, with the great Serengeti plains extending into the distance as far as you can see. Herds of animals run free here in an untamed wilderness. Predators still hunt for prey here. The Serengeti name comes from the Maasai word meaning 'the place where the land runs on forever'. This flat and grassy plan that makes up about one-third of the park, together with the savannahs, is packed with game.

One of the most famous events that occur on the Serengeti is the wildebeest migration. Every year, about two million animals move around the 14,764-square kilometer ecosystem in a clockwise direction, looking for good grazing land and water. These animals are closely followed by predators.

You can spend your time among lions, elephants, cheetahs, impala, hyena, and warthogs. You can sit at a campfire under the African sky, which is home to millions of stars. You can experience the unchanged Africa, exploring historic and exotic places. You will see amazing sunsets and landscape and be hosted by open-hearted people.

When you go to Kenya you can begin your own adventures by traveling as an observer or participating in the many opportunities to see exotic wildlife and natural wonders. You can explore archaeological sites and antiquities. There are also many calm waterways and architectural marvels to be seen and experienced.

Some have described Kenya as having everything that is beautiful in Africa. It has rolling savannahs, icy peaks on Mount Kenya, and the white coral beaches of the Indian Ocean. There are holidays of all types, such as camel safaris in Samburu land. You can participate in walking safaris for bird-watching or go golfing and fishing. You may choose to visit Maasai Mara, where thousands of wildebeest and zebra migrate in July and August. This is an exciting sight for visitors. The coast of Kenya provides many attractions, and Lamu Island has white sand beaches with archaeological sites providing a view into pre-colonial African history. Malindi offers good fishing, surfing, and snorkeling.

Just because you are on safari doesn't mean you'll have to stay in canvas tents. There are also numerous hotels, game lodges, tree hotels, and self-catering chalets. All of these venues offer rest rooms, clean beds, and fine dining. There are good modern roads that connect one exciting location to another and most parks and reserves are easily accessed, so you can see big game.

You can hire cars, motor coaches, and luxury minibuses for transportation, as well as air services with sophisticated charter networks. One of the best journeys runs from Nairobi to Mombasa.

East Africa is a great place to visit all year long. Each season has its own charm, and each area offers wonderful moments. Visit your travel agent to design a trip suitable for you and to get the best deals on airfare, accommodations, tour guides, transportation, and more.

About the Author

Discover more articles about vacation and travel ideas by visiting http://vacation-secrets.com

Top 10 Attractions In Africa by Francois L. Botha

1. MOUNT KILIMINJARO - TANZANIA

The highest mountain on the African continent, 'Kili' measures an astounding 19,340 feet at her highest point. The challenge to climb this majestic mountain has lured many to scale her heights, a demanding but worthwhile ascent by most accounts. Kili, which has five distinct ecological zones, is an extinct volcano.

2. OKAVANGO DELTA - BOTSWANA

The champagne-coloured waterways of this famous floodplain form the basis of a pristine Wetland of International Importance (RAMSAR). With some of the most fantastic birding globally and a wild dog population, the largest inland delta in the world is often called Africa's most beautiful destination. The region can be explored by land, boat and air. Enjoy the spectacular diversity of flora and fauna species.

3. THE EGYPTIAN PYRAMIDS

Easily the most recognizable of the 7 Wonders of the World, the Egyptian Pyramids have long held fascination for thousands of people. Recent resurgence of interest Egyptology has made trips to this alluring destination more popular than ever. The majority of visitors view the pyramids at Giza. The origins of these majestic structures continue to be a source of lively debate, while the stories of ancient curses and grave robbers delight us all.

4. PONTA DO OURO - MOZAMBIQUE

With around 100 Bottlenose and Spinner dolphins making the sheltered waters of Ponta du Ouro their home, this region is definitely worth visiting. Dive the reefs to 40 metres in depth; they are teeming with a rainbow of marine life. Dolphin dives are a popular while in winter the haunting call of the humpback whale can be heard.

5. KRUGER NATIONAL PARK - SOUTH AFRICA

The oldest, most established reserve in Africa, the Kruger boasts an amazing variety of game and bird life throughout its numerous habitats. The fantastic opportunities to view the Big Five draw many visitors to the park, hoping to spot lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard and black rhinoceros. Game drives and guided walking trails offer great animal watching opportunities in the African bush.

6. DJEMAA el FNAA SQUARE - MARRAKESH - MOROCCO

A tapestry of colours, smells, sites and wonderful local characters make a visit to this bustling marketplace an unforgettable experience. Be entertained by fortune tellers, street performers and henna women. The Municipal Market sells local fresh produce. Take a ride in a Horse-drawn carriage and enjoy the spectacular sunset. More performers come out in the evening and entertain till midnight. Enjoy the famous local orange juice or mint tea!

7. THE SERENGETI - TANZANIA

The Serengeti National Park, covering 14,763 sq. km, is named 'endless plains' in Masai. Here are 35 species of mammals, including wildebeest, zebra, lion, cheetah, leopard, elephant and giraffe, and over 200 species of birds. The annual wildebeest migration is possibly the most spectacular natural event in Africa.

8. THE VICTORIA FALLS - ZIMBABWE

From either Zimbabwe or Zambia you can experience the world's largest sheet of falling water. The spray can be seen up to 30 kilometres away - hence the local name 'Mosi-oa-Tunya' - "The smoke that thunders".

Apart from the spectacular views including permanent rainbows arcing across the face of the falls, one can experience the waters along the river at closer quarters with white water rafting.

9. LAKE MALAWI

The 3rd largest lake in Africa is a tropical paradise. The tranquil waters lap against shores lined with palm, mango, banana and avocado trees. Here you can kayak, while snorkeling offers access to the colourful kaleidoscope of endemic cichlids found at this UNESCO world heritage site.

10. TABLE MOUNTAIN - SOUTH AFRICA

This iconic landmark stands in the centre of the beautiful city of Cape Town.

Climb, or experience the wonders of the revolving cable car. Either way a visit to one of the most recognizable mountains in the world is a must for your trip around the great African continent. And while you're there, enjoy the wonders of Cape Town -beaches, winelands, Robben Island - each one a 'Top 10' in its own right!

About the Author

Francois Botha is the developer of Akuko, a blog covering South Africa, travel, news, Cape Town and everything interesting. To read more of his articles visit his South Africa blog.