Interesting African Facts - DID YOU KNOW? - #00005

Historians estimate that approximately 7–12 million slaves were transferred from Africa to the Americas between the fifteenth and nineteenth centuries.

Decline of Tourism in Tanzania - Issue #00005 - September 25, 2010

Decline of Tourism in Tanzania

The following article addresses the recent decline of tourism in Tanzania in 2009. I expect the decline for 2010 to be even greater. The article does not discuss how the decline has affected tour pricing however it is very evident from my perspective that all prices, including airfares, have dropped dramatically since the recession took hold. Tour prices seem to have bottomed out now but for how long is anyone’s guess. Anyone planning to take advantage of pre-recovery pricing is advised to book their East Africa tour without further delay as prices will escalate quickly at the first hint of recovery.

(by Mike Donovan.)


Declining tourism numbers put Tanzania on alert

Government sources indicate that tourist arrivals declined by 10 per cent in the first 10 months of 2009, to reach 576,643 down from 641,951 in 2008.The UN’s World Tourism Organization’s 2009 report — World Tourism Barometer projects that the negative trends in international tourism emerged in the second half of 2008 and intensified in 2009 due to the global economic downturn and swine flu pandemic.

According to the report, international tourism dropped by 8 per cent, from 269 million in 2008 to 247 million in the first quarter of 2009.The organization also speculates that the trend will carry on to June 2010. However, Ibrahim Mussa, assistant director, research, training and statistics at Tanzania’s Ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism said the effects of the global crunch had not badly wounded the country. This is despite statistics showing declining figures with the exception of July, which recorded 79,171 visitors compared to 77,775 visitors in 2008.

The trend is replicated in Zanzibar where the Zanzibar Commission for Tourism has reported only 81,985 tourists arrivals against a projected figure of 150,000 in 2009. It is impossible that Zanzibar will salvage the situation that has badly affected the economy because peak periods are elapsing. Julia Bishop, director of Zanzibar Association of Tourism Investors is optimistic about the country recovering from the crisis.

Tanzania earned $1.2 million from tourism activities in 2008 while Zanzibar received $1.6 million, which is a 3.1 per cent decline from the figures recorded in 2007. According to the Ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism, the average length of stay for visitors in Tanzania mainland was nine nights as compared to 10 in Zanzibar, which earned the country $299 per visitor. Tanzania is now intensifying its efforts to revamp domestic tourism which grew by 19.3 per cent to reach 639,749 in 2009, compared to 2008.

( Source: theeastafrican.co.ke )



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Why Tanzania? - Issue #00004 - September 18, 2010

Why Tanzania?

Tanzania is a land of contrasts. From the snow-capped peak of Mt Kilimanjaro to the endless plains of the Serengeti, from the sun kissed islands of the Zanzibar Archipelago to the gentle shores of Lake Victoria, the country contains immense cultural and natural wealth. It was here, on the dusty floor of Oldevai Gorge, that early man left his first footprints. It was here, on palm fringed Zanzibar, that Swahili traders welcomed dhows and trading boats from across the Indian Ocean.

  

For a millennia , Tanzania has played an essential part in the life of the African continent. The great wildebeest migration alone comprises the largest movement of land animals on the planet.  With over 25% of the country’s landmass dedicated to wildlife parks and conservation areas, Tanzania remains wholeheartedly committed to the preservation of Africa’s great wilderness and incredible range of animal species.

  

The Republic of Tanzania is one of Africa’s most peaceful countries. Home to a flourishing democracy and prospering economy, the country is known for its peace and security. A well- maintained infrastructure and three international airports connects its bustling commercial centers and ensures easy transportation by air or by road. Tanzania’s people are a diverse mix of traditional tribes, village farmers and cosmopolitan professionals united by a common language, Swahili, and a strong sense of national community.

  

Serengeti National Park is undoubtedly the most famous of the country’s national parks, the annual wildebeest migration attracting thousands of visitors each year. For sheer African magic, the Ngorongoro Crater often called the 8th wonder of the world is a must see.

  

Deep within the ancient caldera, herds of gazelle roam beside sated lions, and endangered rhino and elusive cheetah are often spotted through the early morning mist. Still, the big-name parks aren’t all the country has to offer. The elephants of Tarangire National Park and the tree-climbing lions of Lake Manyara also reward the discerning traveler. On the Indian Ocean shore , the Saadani Game Reserve is the most recently protected area to receive international attention.  Famed for its views of elephants playing in the ocean surf, Saandani and other lesser-known national parks offer equally rewarding experiences for guests willing to wander off the beaten track.
  

But the magic of safari isn’t all this great country has to offer; Tropical beaches, coral reefs and the Swahili culture along the Indian Ocean coast are also a main attraction for visitors who want to end their experience of the African bush with some well–earned relaxation, Zanzibar style. For the more intrepid adventurers, a climb to the rooftop of Africa, Mt Kilimanjaro, is the highlight of a safari itinerary. Longer treks through the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, through the magical Gol Mountains or up the active volcano of Ol Donyo Lengai, are a fantastic way to experience less-visited parts of the country in a new way. 

  

Tanzania has a wealth of diverse groups that make up its national community. Hunter-gatherer tribes and fierce Maasai coexist in the northern wilderness, and lesser-known peoples like the Wadorobo and the Iraqw also make up the collage of the country. Cultural tourism has become a popular choice for many visitors to Tanzania, with different programs and itineraries on offer around the country. From day hikes on the slopes of Mt Meru to honey collecting in the Usambaras, discovering local culture is a highlight for any visitor to Africa. 

So welcome to Tanzania  -  experience the warmth of our people, the magic of our wilderness, and the sheer wonder of our wildlife.

Karibu Tanzania - the authentic Africa.

Re-printed from Tanzania Travel And Tourism Directory 2010

LION DOG AFRICAN SAFARIS only provides quality Private-Custom Tours, either Escorted or Independent, at very competitive pricing.

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Interesting African Facts - DID YOU KNOW? - #00004

The land area of Africa is approximately the same area as the total combined areas of Mexico, the entire USA, Canada, Greenland, and over one half of Europe.

Interesting African Facts - DID YOU KNOW? - #00003

There are approximately 120 distinct tribes in Tanzania plus significant numbers of Asians and Arabs plus a small European community. No one group dominates which is one reason that Tanzania is a relatively peaceful country.

Interesting African Facts - DID YOU KNOW? - #00002

Lake Victoria is the largest freshwater lake in the world bordered by Tanzania, Kenya and Uganda.  Lake Tanganyika is the second deepest freshwater lake in the world bordered by Tanzania, Zambia, Burundi , and the Congo.

Interesting African Facts - DID YOU KNOW? - #00001

The Hippo is responsible for the most human fatalities in Africa. 

Different Types Of African Tours - Issue #00003 - September 11, 2010

Different Types of African Tours

When considering travel to Africa , it is important to distinguish the different types of tours, and how they often overlap.

For instance, there is the Escorted Tour versus the Independent Tour.

An Escorted Tour is where an experienced individual accompanies the tour party and  liaisons on their behalf when necessary, with officials, staff, guides, tellers , cab drivers, storekeepers etc. The escort may also provide any additional assistance on tour as required. Africa is an unnerving place to many and having an escort along puts them at ease.
  

An Independent Tour is one where the tour party travels to Africa on their own dealing directly with everybody. It is highly recommended that independent travel groups carefully read the Adventure Guidebook  published  by Lion Dog African Safaris.

Another tour type distinction is the Open Tour versus the Private Tour.

The Open Tour generally comprises a tour where one is grouped together with other parties alien to their own.

A Private Tour is where each party travels, sleeps, eats, and tours together privately without others, as much as feasible.

It is also important to recognize the difference between a Custom Tour versus a Packaged Tour.

A Packaged Tour generally involves a tour with set dates, set destinations, set prices, with very few options, which the clients must conform to. Packaged Tour programs are typically displayed in a glossy brochure for mass consumption.

A Custom Tour is designed specifically for the more discerning client based on what the client wants to experience, when and how long they want to experience it for, and at what pricing level they wish to pay. The services of a knowledgeable tour consultant are required to put a quality custom tour program together for the client.

LION DOG AFRICAN SAFARIS only provides quality Private-Custom Tours, either Escorted or Independent, at very competitive pricing. Now you know.

By: Mike Donovan
Call us for a free consultation: 1-888-50AFRICA
    
Do you want to receive a weekly full edition of our newsletter: Click Here
     
Visit our website for details on planning your dream African safari: www.liondogafricansafaris.com

Night Time Safari Game Drives - Issue #00002 - September 4, 2010

Night Time Safari Game Drives

When on safari of the game parks, a night time game drive is a great way to view a whole host of nocturnal animals and insects who are more active at night such as leopards, hippos, porcupines, genets, civets, bush babies, aardvarks, owls, night jars, spiders, scorpions and lots more.

For instance, the hippo exits the safety of the water normally grazing for approximately four to five hours each night, covering one or two miles, with extended wanderings of up to five miles. A hippo becomes a serious threat when its path back to the safe confines of the water, is perceived to be impeded.

The night game drive is also a great experience for listening to the night sounds of the game parks and gazing at the magnificent southern constellation of stars. 

  

Most parks and reserves do not allow night drives within their boundaries however night drives are often permitted in the “controlled” areas adjoining the parks and reserves. The sun sets at approximately 6 pm and night drives can commence as early as 7 pm. 

  

The trees, brush and grass are slowly scanned with a bright spot light or powerful flashlight looking for the reflection off the wildlife’s eyes referred to as “eye shine”. Different species have different colored eye shine. For example, antelope have a green–blue eye shine while bush baby has red eye shine.

  

Be careful to not direct the artificial light too long at the wildlife to avoid damaging their eyes and interrupting their routine for an extended time . Another less invasive way to find wildlife at night is with night time vision technology. Commercial single lens night time vision scopes are available starting in the $150 range.

   

Night time photography with infrared technology, common with many cameras and camcorders, is discussed on this link. 

By: Mike Donovan

   

Let LION DOG AFRICAN SAFARIS know if you might like a night drive incorporated into your safari program. Call us for a free consultation: 1-888-50AFRICA

    

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