The purpose of the project on the theme of the national park of tanzania. National parks of tanzania. Flora of Tanzania

Tanzania is a country in East Africa. It consists of the mainland (tanganyika), washed by the Indian Ocean from the east, and the large coastal islands of Zanzibar, Pemba and Mafia. Tanzania is part of the British Commonwealth.

Most of the country is located on the East African Plateau. The territory of Tanzania captures part of the largest lakes in Africa - Lake Victoria in the north, Lake Tanganyika (which is often called Baikal's twin) in the west, and Lake Nyasa in the south of Tanzania. The highest mountains in Africa, Kilimanjaro (5895 m). The total length of land borders is 3,402 km, of which with Burundi - 451 km, with Kenya - 769 km, Malawi - 475 km, with Mozambique - 756 km, with Rwanda - 217 km, with Uganda - 396 km and with Zambia - 338 km.

Area of ​​Tanzania: total - 945,087 km2. Coastline: 1424 km. The island territories consist of the Zanzibar archipelago (the islands of Zanzibar, Pemba, Mafia, etc.).

Tanzania has two capitals: the historical capital of Dar es Salaam serves as the administrative center, and Dodoma, where the government moved the main organs in the 1970s, serves as the legislative center.

Tanzania is a republic. The head of state and head of government is the president, elected by the people for a 5-year term, with the possibility of a second term in a row. On December 14, 2005, the candidate from the ruling Revolutionary Party, Tanzanian Foreign Minister Jakaya Kikwete, won the presidential election, gaining more than 80% of the vote. His main rival was Ibrahim Lipumba, the candidate of the opposition Civic United Front. Parliament - unicameral State Assembly (Bunge), 274 deputies, of which 232 are elected by the population for a 5-year term, 37 women deputies are appointed personally by the president, and 5 deputies are appointed by the autonomous parliament of Zanzibar.

Relief of Tanzania

Most of Tanzania is located on the East African Plateau. Along the western and southwestern borders there are deep tectonic valleys and highlands of Giant craters (Meru volcanoes, Africa's highest mountain Kilimanjaro (5895 m) and others. The coast of the Indian Ocean is a narrow strip of lowlands.

The lower and drier part of the plateau occupies all of southern Tanzania. The soils here are of a lighter composition, are prone to erosion and are rapidly depleted. Precipitation is scarce and unevenly distributed over the seasons. The tsetse fly is found here - a carrier of sleeping sickness among people and revolver disease among domestic animals.

The central and northern parts of the plateau rise to 1200-1500 m. In some places there is a moderate amount of precipitation, fertile soils are widespread.

The territory of the country includes part of the largest lakes in Africa - Lake Victoria in the north, Lake Tanganyika (which is often called the twin of Baikal) in the west, Lake Nyasa - in the south of Tanzania, as well as endorheic salt lakes Rukva, Natron, Eyasi. The main rivers of the country - Pangani, Rufiji (the only navigable river in the lower reaches) and Ruvuma flow into the Indian Ocean.

Climate of Tanzania

The climate is subequatorial monsoon, hot, seasonally humid. Average monthly temperatures from 12-15 to 25-27 degrees C. There are two rainy seasons in the north (March - May and September - November), in the south - one (November - April).

The greatest amount of precipitation falls on the western coast of Lake Victoria (up to 2000 mm per year), the least - on the internal plateaus (about 250 mm). In most of Tanzania, the dry season lasts 5-7 months. The change of dry and wet seasons is especially noticeable in the mountainous northeast and on the Masai plateau.

There are problems of drought, forest fires. It happened that the drought led to a decrease in the water level in the reservoirs that feed the hydroelectric power stations, to a critical one, as a result, strict rationing of the supply of electricity was introduced throughout the country. Heavy rains also cause significant damage. So, as a result of heavy rains in late 1997 - early 1998. agricultural objects were destroyed, roads were washed out, bridges were demolished.

The climate on the islands is humid, the average daily temperature is plus 28-30 degrees, sea breezes make the weather very pleasant. The water temperature in the Indian Ocean is 24-26 degrees. In the central part (1200-1700 m above sea level) average temperature- plus 22-25 degrees, nights can be cool.

Flora of Tanzania

Tropical dry deciduous woodlands are located in the west and south of the country, park savannahs in the coastal lowland, and grassy savannahs in the central and northeastern regions. Moist evergreen forests and shrubs grow on the slopes of the mountains. Despite the proximity to the equator, Tanzania is characterized by Various types savannas: shrub, park, mountain park, grassy. Along with the forests of "miombo" (light rainforests from deciduous trees) savannas occupy most of the territory. On the coast of the ocean and in the mouths of the rivers there are mangroves. Dense tropical forests have survived only around the lakes in the west of the country and in the floodplains of some rivers. On the slopes of high mountains grow even conifers, such as cedar and pedicel. Angolan pterocarpus is found in park forests, valuable wood which is used for the manufacture of high-end furniture and wall cladding.

Fauna of Tanzania

Tanzania is one of the few countries on the African continent where representatives of a rich tropical fauna have been preserved in natural conditions. Several species of antelopes live in the savannas (wildbeest, kongoni, topi, stenbok, springbok and others), as well as lions, leopards, cheetahs, zebras, elephants and giraffes.

An abundance of monkeys is characteristic, from monkeys in the extreme northwest there are chimpanzees, and in the Kilimanjaro region - gorillas. There are hippos and crocodiles along the rivers.

The world of birds is unusually rich and diverse. Especially a lot of waterfowl. In the elevated regions of the country, ostriches can occasionally be observed. From poisonous snakes the black mamba and the African viper stand out.

However animal world significantly impoverished as a result of prolonged extermination. Large animals are preserved mainly in reserves and national parks, the largest of which are Ngorongoro, Serengeti, Ruaha, Arusha, Manyama, Mikumi, Kilimanjaro, Rungwa. Particularly famous national park Serengeti (15.5 thousand sq. km), the only one in the world where natural seasonal migrations of wild animals take place. Ngorongoro is located in the region of a huge volcanic crater, its caldera, the largest in the world, is distinguished by an extraordinary wealth of fauna.

National parks of Tanzania

There are 15 national parks in Tanzania, which are managed by the Tanzania National Parks Authority or TANAPA, based in the city of Arusha. According to international studies, the service is one of the most productive in Africa - it employs 1650 people who serve 15 existing and one planned national park (Saanane). The main task of the service is to preserve the existing biodiversity and rich natural heritage of the country. The national park system has UNESCO World Heritage Sites (4 sites out of 7 in Tanzania) and Biosphere Reserves (2 sites out of 3 in the country).

In the north of the country in the center there are national parks Arusha, Kilimanjaro, Mkomazi, Lake Manyana, Rubondo Island, Serengeti, Tarangir. Arusha Park is located in close proximity to the city of Arusha - the northern center of safari in the country. The park has recently been expanded with forest reserve Mount Meru. Kilimanjaro Park, which also recently received additional area called upon to protect the high point Africa. Lake Manyara includes Lake Manyara, located along the rift wall. Mkomazi Park, located on the border with Kenya, is the youngest park in the country, founded in 2008. Rubondo Island in the southwestern part of Lake Victoria is home to the Rubondo Island National Park. The Serengeti National Park includes the Ngorongoro Crater. In the future, it is planned to increase the area of ​​the park. Tarangire National Park is located on the Tarangire River.

Saadini Park is located in the northeast of the country on the coast of the Indian Ocean between the cities of Tanga and Dar es Salaam. To the east in the Udzungwa Mountains is the Udzungwa Mountains Park. On the northern coast of Lake Tanganyika in the western part of the country is the Gombe Stream National Park. Mahali Mountains Park is also located on the shore of the lake in the Mahali Mountains. Ruaha Park is located in the center of the country. After a recent increase in size, the park has become the largest in Tanzania. Katavi Park is located in the southwest of the country near Lake Rukva at the end of the rift valley. In the south of the country is Kitulo Park, also known as the Garden of the Gods. The issue of increasing the area of ​​the park at the expense of the forests of Mount Rungwe is currently being considered. To the southeast are the Selous Nature Reserve and Mikumi Park.

Population of Tanzania

Population 38.860 million (October 2009 est.). In the country, only the city of Dar es Salaam has a population of more than 1 million people. Annual growth - 2%. Fertility - 4.5 births per woman. Infant mortality - 69 per 1000 births. Average life expectancy is 50 years for men, 53 years for women. Infection with the immunodeficiency virus (HIV) - 6.2% (2007 estimate).

Ethnic composition - in the mainland - 99% blacks, mostly Bantu peoples (hehe, shamballa, sukuma, curia, ha, etc.), 1% - Asians (mostly Indians), whites, Arabs. In Zanzibar - mostly Arabs, Negroes and mestizos of Arab-Negro origin.

The official languages ​​are Swahili and English, Arabic is widely spoken in Zanzibar, and there are many local Bantu languages ​​in the mainland. Religions - in the mainland - Christians 30%, Muslims 35%, aboriginal cults 35%; Zanzibar is over 99% Muslim.

Source - http://ru.wikipedia.org/
http://www.afri.su/countries/tanzania/

- the country is not very big: in the world it ranks 30th, and in Africa - 13th. However, here, perhaps, as nowhere else, much attention is paid to ecology and the preservation of nature in its original form. National parks Tanzania - and there are as many as 15 of them! - attract the largest number of tourists to the country - the state is considered one of the best for ecotourism in the world. They are operated by the Tanzania National Park Service, which employs over 1,600 people.

In 1960, was discovered, famous for its crater lakes, large woodlands and alpine meadows. More than 200 species of mammals, about 120 reptiles and more than four hundred species of birds live here. The same year was the year of foundation and one of the most famous reserves in the world -, most of which, especially during the rainy period, is occupied by the same name. This park is famous for its abundance of birds, including pink flamingos, as well as unique lions that climb trees.

B can also be attributed to the oldest - it received the status of a national park in 1964. Its main attraction is the flooded meadows of Mkata, the flora of which is very rich and interesting. Cannes live here - the largest antelopes in the world. In the same year, it began its work and, which is a transit territory through which representatives of the fauna of the southern and eastern parts countries. It is home to the largest population of elephants in East Africa. In 1968, it opened, which is by far the smallest in the country (its area is only 52 sq. Km). The park is home to a large number of different primate species; about a hundred chimpanzees alone live here. The park is running a project to research these primates.

In the next 30 years, such Tanzania parks as, and Rubondo Island were created. Katavi Park occupies the third place in terms of area (it is 4471 sq. km); swamps, seasonal lakes, as well as meadows and forests are located in this territory. Tarangire attracts visitors not only with a wide variety of animals and birds, but also with ancient rock paintings. The snow cap of Mount Kilimanjaro, the heart of the reserve, is calling card Tanzania; about 10 thousand tourists annually strive to conquer the top of this highest mountain in Africa.

Mahali Mountains, like Gombe Stream, is home to a large number of chimpanzees, colobus and other primates that live in humid forests; antelopes live in the dry forests of miombo, which occupy about 75% of the park's area. Rubondo Island National Park occupies Rubondo Island and several other smaller islands; This is a favorite vacation spot for lovers of fishing. Most of the reserve is occupied moist forests where many orchids grow. The most exotic inhabitants of the reserve are the sitatunga water antelope. The Udzungwa Mountains are home to rare birds, many of which are endangered, and six varieties of primates, two of which are endemic.

In the 21st century, several national parks were also opened in Tanzania: in 2002, Kitulo Park began its work, bearing the title of "Garden of God" due to the wide variety of plant life: more than 30 species of endemic Tanzanian plants grow here and several species of endemics of the local area, as well as 45 species of orchids and many other plants. Saadani Park, opened in 2005, is the only park on the coast. It is famous for its mangroves. In 2008, on the border with Kenya, a

Before starting the story of my trip to the national parks of Tanzania, I want to say that based on my experiences, I came to the conclusion that everyone should visit the national parks of Tanzania at least twice - once as a child with their parents, and the second time as parent with their children.

So, let's start in order:

In Tanzania, I stopped in Moshi (Kilimanjaro Airport). This city is located right at the foot of the highest mountain in Africa, Kilimanjaro (5895 m). Therefore, if your plans, in addition to visiting parks, are to conquer the top of this mountain, then Moshi is the city from where you can optimally start your journey.

Tarangire National Park.

The first point of my trip was the Tarangire National Park, which is located in the north of the country, about 120 km from the city of Arusha. This park makes an indelible impression not only with rich flora, but also with a variety of animals and birds. The first thing that meets on the way of tourists is the huge baobabs towering above the tall grass.

Here you can see wildebeest, zebras, Thomson's gazelles, buffaloes, elands and cow antelope. This park has one of the largest elephant populations in Tanzania - about 6000. By the way, elephants make a very vivid impression, because you can watch them from a very short distance (from about 3 - 5 meters). Tarangire is home to about 300 species of birds. This is one of the few places in Africa where the tsetse fly is found. They survived after many years of man's struggle against them. By the way, tsetse flies are like our gadflies and also bite unpleasantly, but I will say that meeting her or being bitten by her is more an exception than a rule ...

After visiting Tarangire Park, my driver-guide brought me to the lodge for the night. Lodges are an exclusively African invention for travelers. Lodges are usually located in the territories of national parks and reserves in Africa, where safaris and trekking are traditionally held. Lodges are special places for tourists to stay, equipped on the bosom wildlife. Sometimes they are called ethno-hotels.

The conditions in the lodge are usually comfortable, food is provided on the spot. From an architectural point of view, this is a capital building, where all services, bars, restaurants, and a veranda for watching animals are concentrated. Guest rooms are usually located in separate bungalows. Lodges have been created specifically for travelers to enjoy the magnificent scenery and wildlife. Upon arrival, I was met by a whole delegation, consisting of managers and staff of this lodge. At the entrance I was offered a wet towel and a soft drink... To be honest, it's nice when you are expected and kindly greeted like a good old friend... I later said jokingly that everything was fine, but there were not enough singing gypsies...)) In order not to dwell on loggia theme, I want to say that it is very comfortable hotel rooms and depending on the cost of living, you can have not only a toilet and a shower, but also a jacuzzi ... I also stayed in such rooms. The cost of such a room is about $500 per day (an average room costs about $200). But I confess, when you go on a safari, this extra comfort makes the trip more enjoyable…

"Buffet" is fully adapted to European cuisine. In the evening, I was accompanied by an armed ranger from my room to the restaurant and back. This security element is not selective, but mandatory for each visitor and is aimed at protecting visitors from wild animals ... Moreover, in Africa, the Sun rises around 6.00 in the morning, and at 18.30 it is already so dark, even gouge out your eye, and consider. that all the lighting in the lodge and the heating of the water are realized through solar panels, the bulbs along the paths are very dim and illuminate only a small section of the path under your feet ... Therefore, an escort with a flashlight is definitely not superfluous here ...)) And in conclusion, I want to warn you that safaris in the parks are not only an unforgettable experience, but also a good layer of dust after each day of the safari. Therefore, depending on the number of safari days, an additional 2 - 5 sets outerwear(T-shirts, shirts) definitely do not interfere. If you are lucky with a travel company like me, then I had a refrigerator in the car, in which there was always a chilled drinking water and not sun-tired lunch box. And one more thing, some tourists, in order to save their money, stop for the night in specially designated places in tents. If in Russia it’s even exciting, then in Africa it can be the reason for a spoiled vacation ... I’ll explain why ... Firstly, you will have to carry all these tents on the roof of your jeep, which, by the way, opens and makes it possible to better view terrain. But if there are things, then the view will be only through the windows of the car. Secondly, you will have to carry with you a specially trained Tanzanian chef who will prepare breakfasts, lunches and dinners for you, and this is at least the time that you take away from yourself, as well as additional luggage space for groceries for the duration of the safari …

Lake Manyara National Park.

The park is located 125 km west of the city of Arusha. The height of the park above sea level ranges from 960 to 1478 meters. The park is a narrow strip between the alkaline Lake Manyara in the east and the Gregory Rift in the west.

The main attraction of the park is Lake Manyara, coastal zone which is literally teeming with pink flamingos and other birds. This satiety is formed not only by the birds themselves, but also by their reflections from the surface of the water. The spectacle seen cannot be expressed in words, and the proverb about “it is better to see once than to hear a hundred times” refers precisely to this case ...

Almost all parks are dotted with termite mounds from one to three meters high.

The animal world is also rich and varied. The park is inhabited by numerous herds of elephants, giraffes, hippos, buffaloes and many other animals. Another attraction of the park are the hot springs… I checked with my own hand - hot water flows directly from the underground bins ...

I haven't experimented myself, but I think what to cook egg, putting it in this source will not take much time ... By the way, looking ahead, I will say after visiting the parks I was lucky to visit one of the lakes, which is heated by underground hot springs. Not only is the water very clear with a turquoise hue, but it also has comfortable temperature+27 - +29 degrees. This suggests that although the volcanoes in Tanzania are silent, their breath is everywhere here.

One more thing I would like to dwell on... For some reason, it is generally accepted that it is better not to visit parks during the rainy season... I will put it another way, the best time to visit parks is during the rainy season... Firstly, such rains as we used to see in Russia, which can pour for weeks like a bucket is not here. I saw rain twice in two weeks, the duration of which was about 10-15 minutes. The rest of the time the sun was shining. But meanwhile, in the parks, instead of burnt yellow grass, fresh greens of various shades appear, and numerous shrubs and trees begin to bloom.

Secondly, there are not so many tourists during the rainy season, therefore, the animals come closer to the roads that safari cars can drive on, and there are also no problems with cheaper lodge rooms…

Ngorongoro Biosphere Reserve.

Ngorongoro is a huge crater in Tanzania on the edge of the Serengeti savannah, which arose as a caldera as a result of the collapse of a large volcano about 2.5 million years ago. It is located northeast of Lake Eyasi and northwest of Lake Manyara.

The depth of the crater is 610 m. Its edges rise to 2286 m above sea level. The diameter of the Ngorongoro crater is from 17 to 21 km, its total area is approximately 265 km². At the bottom of the crater is Lake Magadi, famous for its flamingo population. The Ngorongoro Crater is unique in that over the years it has developed its own habitat for many species of animals that are unable to get out.

About 25 thousand animals live in the crater, it has the highest density of predators in all of Africa. Especially often in Ngorongoro there are zebras, buffaloes and different kinds antelope such as wildebeest, eland and gazelles. They are hunted by lions and leopards living in the crater. In addition to them, black rhinos, elephants and, which is unusual for these latitudes, hippos also live in Ngorongoro.

Large migratory streams of animals from the Serengeti often pass through the Ngorongoro Crater.

The mountain range encircling this park reminded me very much of the motives of Vladimir Obruchev's book "Sannikov Land". This is one of the few places on the planet where you can see a live rhino. I must say right away that this is a rarity, but there are always chances, because. rhinoceroses try to stay away from people and often just sleep. Ngorongoro is perhaps one of the few parks where animals are not afraid of humans at all and come so close that in some cases the photographer can do without a telephoto.

This is the place where you can see with your own eyes the direct process of lions hunting for buffaloes, zebras or antelopes.

The relief of the crater is one large steppe, along which whirlwinds of tornadoes glide. The wetland is constantly floating and this floating is visible even to the naked eye. A very strong impression is left by huge rounded stone boulders, which are scattered not only along the crater itself, but also throughout the Serengeti Park. Looking at them, you understand what power the volcano had, throwing out these multi-ton boulders from its bowels over great distances.

Serengeti National Park.

The Serengeti ecosystem is one of the oldest and best preserved on Earth. More than 80 percent of the Serengeti is occupied by protected areas - the Serengeti National Park, the Ngorongoro Reserve in Tanzania, the Masai Mara Reserve in Kenya, and others. The Serengeti is located at an altitude of 920 to 1850 m above sea level and its landscape varies from a grassy plain in the south to center and extensive woodland to the west.

More than 4.5 million wild ungulates live in the Serengeti (antelopes, zebras, buffaloes, rhinos, giraffes, hippos), as well as elephants, lions, cheetahs, leopards, hyenas, etc.

The great animal migration made the strongest impression on me. In particular, I observed the migration of wildebeests. You can imagine how from horizon to horizon a column of thousands of herds of these animals makes the transition from the Serengeti Park (Tanzania) to Kenya.

They are looking for new pastures and places for watering during the dry season, for this they travel long distances, risking their lives. For myself, I called the Serengeti park an animal kindergarten ... Apparently, this place is very favorable for feeding the cubs of various animals. Entire colonies of hippos, lions and wild boar(pumba).

This is a place where giraffes and elephants are in great abundance, not to mention monkeys, antelopes and zebras, of which there are simply a huge number in every park. Of all the parks, this is perhaps the only one in which yellow changes to green. At the same time, various shades of green give the landscapes unusually beautiful views.

Stratovolcano Oldoinyo-Lengai.

Oldoinyo Lengai is a stratovolcano in northern Tanzania. One of the youngest and possibly the most active volcano in East Africa. It has a unique composition of lava. In the language of the local Maasai tribe, the name of the volcano means "mountain of God."

It is located near Lake Natron and is part of the volcanic system of the Great Rift Valley in East Africa. Height above sea level - 2962m.

Already at the entrance to this volcano, the terrain is changing right before our eyes. Steppe straight roads are replaced by mountain serpentines.

The air temperature due to the proximity of the volcano begins to rise. I want to note that the extreme activity of this volcano was recorded in 2013. In the foothills of this volcano lies a valley with Lake Natron, which is also a habitat for pink flamingos. Despite the activity of this volcano, a large number of Masai people live in this valley. The Masai are a semi-nomadic African indigenous people who have almost completely preserved their traditional way of life. Due to the popularity of ethnic tourism, the Maasai have become one of the attractions of Tanzania.

Many tourists get acquainted with the life of these tribes with great interest. Masai, spoiled by the attention of strangers, also enjoy this and if you want to photograph them, then get ready to pay $ 1 for photographing one Masai. The number of shots is unlimited. In the Oldoinyo-Lengai region, everything is much simpler. The local manager of the lodge negotiates with the head of the Masai tribe, pays him $ 15-20 and you are brought to one of the settlements (30 people), you can take pictures of anyone and as much as you like. These are not decorative settlements, but real ones. As you leave the valley, there will be three checkpoints on your way where you will need to pay government tax. It is $15, but if your driver-guide knows how to bargain, then there is a chance to save and pay a smaller amount. In Tanzania, this is par for the course.

In conclusion of my story, I cannot keep silent about tanzanites. The mineral is mined only in the province of Arusha in northern Tanzania. Tanzanite is found in blue, purple and yellow-brown colors, the latter, after heat treatment, also become blue-violet and are used in jewelry.

At the stones good quality color ultramarine or sapphire blue. Under electric light, it acquires an amethyst-violet hue. When heated to 400-500 C, brownish and yellowish hues disappear and the blueness of the stone deepens.

And finally, I will say that tanzanites have not only a very beautiful dark blue color, but also the same beautiful price ...)) The average cost of one carat of tanzanite ranges from $400 to $500. Here the price depends on the color, size and cut of the stone, as well as on your ability to bargain. And it is necessary to bargain ...)) Stones are approximately one to four carats in size. If you want to buy a nugget, the price varies from $25 to $100.

If you do decide to shoot people in Tanzania, it's best to ask them about it. Their native language is Swahili, but many speak English well. In Swahili, "I want to take a picture of you" will sound like this: "Mimi naOmba kupIga piche." The staff at the lodge is interested in Russian words with pleasure. That's how I taught them a new word "crackers", which is very appropriate for their very tasty mashed soups. Of course, some Russian-speaking tourists also leave their language mark in Tanzania, so “moving your rolls” is one of the “masterpieces” of the Russian language manifestation heard by my sons ...))

We have already listed the most significant parks in the country, now we will tell you about them in more detail: about prices, time, distance and opportunities to save money.

So let's go!

"Serengeti"

Let's start with the largest, most famous and expensive park in the country - the Serengeti. Its area is 14,763 (!) square kilometers, and the number of animals living on the territory is off scale. Here you will see all the representatives of the African Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, rhinoceros), moreover, almost guaranteed, unlike other parks. In general, the name of this place comes from the Masai word siringet, which means “endless plain”. This is exactly what you will feel when you find yourself in its open spaces: a wild world, untouched by human civilization.

The entrance fee to the park is small, only 50-60 USD, but you will hardly be able to go there for less than 500 USD. We tell you why: not a single national park in Tanzania will take you they won't let you in without a car and a guide, and the car must be a safari jeep, and the guide must be a certified Tanzanian. Both cost money: the most budget "set" will cost you 300 USD per day.

How to get there

The problem with the Serengeti lies in its size and distance from regional center, cities .

The drive from there to the entrance to the park is as much as 300 km, half of which is off-road, plus the road back, so not a single adequate guide will take you to the Serengeti for a day or even two. To see at least a quarter of the park, you will need at least one full day, so three days is the minimum period for which you will need to rent a car and a guide.

Cost of visiting

Further, the price of gasoline: in the best scenario, in three days you can meet 80 USD, but most likely this amount will increase to 100 USD. Add food here (even if you eat like Thumbelina, you won’t eat less than 60 USD for three days) and housing: the cheapest campsite in the park with your own tent will cost you 30 USD per night.

And now the most interesting: 50-60 USD is the price for entering the park for ONE DAY. Multiply this amount by three and... add another 100 USD. It turns out that in order to get to the national park, you MUST drive through the Ngorongoro Reserve, and the entrance ticket there costs 50 USD. True, on the way back you will have to pay the same amount again - you still pass through the park, no matter which way! “No, you can’t go on another road, they don’t exist,” any guide will definitely tell you.

We consider: 300*3 + 80 + 60 + 30*3 + 60*3 + 100 = 1,410 USD for a day and a half in the national park. How do you like that? But do not lose heart, now we will tell you how you can save money.

life hacks

If you haven't registered on Facebook yet, it's worth it. There are several groups in which travelers from all over the world are looking for a safari company. This is done solely with the aim of reducing the cost of a car, guide and gasoline, dividing the amount between all participants. The maximum number of passengers in a safari jeep can be five or six, depending on the brand of the car and the number of driver-guides. Let's imagine that you are very lucky and you find five more satellites on a safari. We divide the rent of the car + guide and gasoline by five, add the price of camping, food and entrance to the parks. What it turns out: 196 + 430 = 632 USD. Already better, isn't it?

The main problem in this situation will be the search for fellow travelers:

• firstly, for this you need to have at least basic English,
• and secondly, it's just physically difficult to organize 5 foreigners in a country you don't know.

But such a system has been operating for more than a year, the method has been proven, which means that everything is real.

There is another way, but it is more suitable for backpackers who have a lot of free time and some skills. In Tanzania, many travel companies and private guides need websites, and only a few know how to make them, and they take some fabulous money for their work. So here's what you can do: find a tour company or guide with a car and offer their FREE services in creating a website, and in return ask them to take you to the park for a few days. The method is effective, since it will be much cheaper for many companies and private traders to take you to the Serengeti for a couple of days than to pay for the creation of a site: we learned the information from one guide who gladly agreed to our offer. You only need to know English well and be able to work on platforms like Wordpress.

Accommodation

If you are a lucky person whose budget is unlimited, we can please you: there are many lodges(luxury hotels, as close to nature as possible), where you can rent a luxurious room for an unlimited period.

Prices for them start from 300 USD per night, and they can offer you very comfortable conditions: Internet, hot shower, swimming pool, restaurant. It is best to look for them on and book in advance after comparing prices, as they are popular among European and American tourists.

The second most expensive option is private campsites. Most often these are large tents equipped with all necessary amenities. Their prices start from 150 USD and a seat can also be booked online.

And finally the most a budget option residence - public campsites. The most popular are Seronera Public Campsite and Simba Campsite. The cost of one night there is 30 USD. You can set up your own tent, but we do not recommend doing this, as campsites do not have fences, and animals roam right in the middle of the camp. No, they will not attack you, but if an elephant steps on the tent, then nothing pleasant will come of it. Our advice: rent a safari jeep with a tarpaulin on the roof. Yes, you will have to pay about 50 USD to the travel company, but this is a completely justified security measure. The campsite has a toilet and shower, but with cold water. There is no electricity, so make sure you have extra lights. Leaving the tent after dark is not recommended, and you don’t want to :). After sunset, the nature surrounding you will be filled with the voices of wild animals, and predators will begin their night hunting. But trust us, such an overnight stay will be remembered for a lifetime!

"Tarangire"

In addition to the Serengeti, Tanzania has many more nature reserves of different price ranges and sizes. The price for entering them is approximately the same and ranges from 40 to 60 USD, but if you don’t get into the huge Serengeti for less than three days, then, for example, one day is enough for the Tarangire Park. Its area is 2,850 square kilometers, and it is famous for the largest population of elephants in all of Tanzania. In addition to these giants, a huge number of ungulates, lions (but it is difficult to see them) and more than 550 species of birds live in Tarangire.

How to get there

It is located much closer to the city than the previous one, about 130 km from Arusha. You will get to it on a safari jeep with a guide, so about the time of departure and route planning: be prepared to wake up early in the morning, as the guide will pick you up at 7-8 in the morning. In general, when booking a tour, all information about the trip will be detailed, and your guide will be able to answer all your questions. In our case, it was exactly that.

Regarding food: you will be offered to buy a lunch box (chicken or meat, rice, juice, banana, meat patty) for 5 USD, plus you can take whatever you want with you. You will be able to have lunch upon arrival at the nat. park, so don't forget to have breakfast. And, of course, no one will forbid you to have a bite to eat right in the car.

Cost of visiting

Entrance to it costs 53 USD per person. Renting a guide and a car will cost the same 300 USD per day, and if you do not spend the night in the park, including food and gasoline, you will spend about 250 USD in total if you travel together. Again, if you find fellow travelers, the price can be greatly reduced.

In case you still want to stay in the park for the night, you can find many options for accommodation in lodges from 150 USD. But keep in mind that you will have to pay again for the second day of your stay in the park, so we advise you not to stay overnight in its territory, especially since one day is enough for a full-fledged safari.

Lake Natron

Another park that we want to talk about is Lake Natron. The park is not called the lake itself, but the territory surrounding it: the sun-scorched savannah, inhabited by the Maasai tribes, whose way of life has not changed for many centuries, is part of the Great Rift Valley.

The lake itself is interesting in that it is covered with a crust of salt and, thanks to special microorganisms, turns pink several times a year.

It is also considered one of the largest flamingo habitats in Africa, which also attracts tourists from all over the world and at any time of the year.

How to get there

It is difficult to get to the lake, as 100 km of the route runs through the savannah, and this is complete off-road, dust and shaking. The nearest tourist city is, so you will depart from it.

But the reward for a long journey will be a magnificent view of the valley: the Maasai settlements grazing their lean cattle, the great East African Rift, the walking zebras and antelopes - this is where you can see real Africa!

Cost of visiting

On the way through the savannah, three checkpoints will be waiting for you, at each of which you will have to pay an entry fee: in the first two for 10 USD, and in the last one, already near the lake, 15 USD. In addition to this, you will no longer have to pay for the visit. In principle, a day may be enough to go to the lake and return back, but it is unlikely that after such a difficult road you will want to return to the car.

By the way, you can enter the park without a guide, which will greatly reduce the cost, but a safari jeep and an offline map are required here. As for us, we hitchhiked to the lake and spent the night in a tent right in the middle of the savannah. The one-way trip took two days. The route was laid through maps.me maps, since Google maps simply do not find the road leading to the lake. The landscapes that we met along the way made us literally freeze with delight: the endless expanses of Masai lands scorched by the sun, giant dumpy baobabs, the Great Rift Fault striking with grandeur and representatives of one of the most ancient tribes on Earth. Sleeping in a tent was a little creepy, because hyenas were running around us, and the corpses of half-eaten gazelles suggested all sorts of terrible thoughts. But absolutely nothing terrible happened to us: predators try to stay away from the Masai villages, so it is quite safe to spend the night near the settlements. The main problem is the locals themselves: not every day they see white people sleeping in a tent, and, as curious people, they will definitely come to get to know you, which means that you can forget about the rest. By the way, we did not pay a cent to pass through the villages, explaining to the fundraisers that we are not rich tourists, but travelers who barely have enough money for food. And they understood us.

Accommodation

Near the lake there are many campsites and lodges, that makes him perfect place for a relaxing holiday in the heart of Africa. Prices start from 200 USD, and for this money you will get all the necessary amenities: water, electricity, shower, bed.

If finances do not allow this type of accommodation, then Lake Natron is one of the few places where you can put up a tent outside the campsite. The maximum that can bother you is a herd of zebras that have come to a watering place. On extreme case you can sleep in the car. You can replenish your food and water supplies in any of the villages in which you will pay for travel.

Finally

As you can see, holidays in Tanzania are not cheap. In this country, literally everything is tailored for a tourist, and the color of your skin will invariably give you one. But the nature screaming with its beauty, the world of wild animals and the ancient land that has preserved its originality are worth it. Without seeing all this, you can never say that you have seen the world.

Parks of Tanzania: national parks, reserves, protected areas of Tanzania, natural parks.

Any unesco

the very best

kilimanjaro

"Crown of Tanzania" - Mount Kilimanjaro (from Swahili - "mountain that sparkles"). It is impossible not to recognize it - rising directly above the flat plains, covered with a snow cap at the top, it has become a real symbol of the country.

the very best

Ruaha

Ruaha National Park

Today it is one of the most popular and visited nature reserves in the country. In addition, Ruaha is the second largest national park in Tanzania. It got its name from the Great Ruaha River, which flows among the mountain gorges along its eastern border, and flows into the Rufiji River.

the very best

Tanganyika

Lake Tanganyika lies within the East African Rift - one of the greatest geological phenomena on Earth. This lake is the second in the world after Baikal in terms of depth (1470 m). And just like Baikal, it is distinguished by exceptionally clear water, which allows you to see the bottom at a depth of up to 33 meters.

• National parks of Tanzania - Serengeti, Kilimanjaro, Ruaha, Tarangire and others - recognized centers around the world ecological tourism. Numerous reserves, the most famous of which are Selous, Ngorongoro and Rungwa, preserve unique species of flora and fauna. equatorial Africa. The Selous Reserve, Ruaa and Mikumi parks make Tanzania the center of numerous safaris and air tours, as well as film set for hundreds of films. In total, Tanzania has 12 national parks, the Ngorongoro Reserve, 13 wildlife reserves, 38 protected areas and about 120 national cultural sites.

  Arusha National Park, one of the smallest in Tanzania, is located only 32 km from the city. Its main "must sees" are Momela Lake, Mount Meru and Ngurdoto Crater. About 400 species of birds nest in the park - both local and migratory, and from the animals here you can meet baboons, elephants, buffaloes, giraffes, hippos, leopards, hyenas, zebras and many species of antelopes.

  In the Serengeti, you can see 35 species of large mammals, including the so-called "big five" - ​​elephant, rhinoceros, lion, leopard and buffalo. The Ngorongoro Wildlife Sanctuary is listed as a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site. In the southwest it is bounded by Lake Eyasi and in the north by the Gol Mountains. The park is home to gazelles, buffaloes, elands, warthogs, lions, hyenas, cheetahs and leopards. Even in the reserve you can observe more than 100 species of birds that do not live in the Serengeti.

  Tarangire National Park is located on the eastern shore of Lake Maniara and covers an area of ​​2600 square meters. km. Tarangire is famous for its abundance of wild animals. Lake Manyara National Park is located between the alkaline lake of the same name and the rocks of the Great African Rift. The most entertaining sight in the park is the lions climbing the trees.

  Mount Kilimanjaro is the highest single mountain in the world, which is also a dormant but not extinct volcano. Climbing Kilimanjaro can be done throughout the year, but it is best to do it from August to October and from January to March. The main attractions of this peak are the volcanic centers of the Shire in the west, Mawenzi in the east, and snow-white Kibo in the center.

  In total, Tanzania has 12 national parks, the Ngorongoro Reserve, 13 wildlife reserves, 38 protected areas and about 120 national cultural sites.

  South of Tanzania

  In the south of Tanzania are the most untouched nature reserves and reserves in Africa. The most famous among them are the Selous Reserve and the Ruaha National Park.

  The Selous is the largest protected wildlife area in Africa with the largest elephant population in Tanzania. Lions, impalas, giraffes, antelopes, baboons, zebras, buffaloes, hippos and wild dogs are also often found here. The nature in the reserve is very diverse: from savannahs to forests, from meadows to rocks cut through by the Rufizhi River and its tributaries Kilambero and Luwegu. In the Kilombero River, there are predatory tiger fish and amazing vanda catfish with primitive lungs that allow them to move from one reservoir to another directly by land. The park organizes walking and car safaris, as well as boat trips. Best time for them it is the dry season from June to October, when thirst drives wild animals from secluded places to the rivers.

  Ruaha is a relatively inaccessible wild park, which more than compensates for the road difficulties of travelers who have reached it with the amazing diversity of its plant and animal life. The large Ruaha River protects and nourishes evergreen forests and swamps, thanks to which a huge population of elephants lives in the park.

  Mahale Mountains National Park

  In Western Tanzania, on the shores of Lake Tanganyika, there are two reserves: the National Park of the Mahale Mountains and the Gombe Park, known for large populations of chimpanzees and almost the same number of scientists who study their behavior in the natural environment.

  The small Mahale Mountains National Park is located 120 kilometers south of the city of Kigoma, on a peninsula in the eastern part of Lake Tanganyika. In the center of the reserve rises a mountain range, the height of which reaches 2462 m above sea level. Among the representatives of the fauna here, it is worth highlighting a huge population of chimpanzees, about a thousand individuals. In the north, a tourist has every chance to meet elephants, buffaloes and other animals, and in the southern part of the park there are many species of antelopes, lions and giraffes. In the park, you can take a walking safari through the mountains and along the shores of Lake Tanganyika.

  northern circle

  The northern circle is the most developed, but at the same time the wildest. His route covers many parks and reserves of Northern Tanzania, the most famous of which are the Ngorongoro Reserve, Mount Kilimanjaro, the Serengeti, Tarangire, Arusha and Lake Maniara parks. The Serengeti ecosystem consists of the Masai Mara in Kenya and the western part of the Ngorongoro Park, the Serengeti National Park proper and the Maswa Park in Tanzania. Animal migration goes in a circle, starting in the Masai Mara and then clockwise to the southeast.

  A specific route through the objects should be chosen, focusing on the movement of the rainy area: the animals move after the moisture. Wild boars, zebras, gazelles and some species of antelopes migrate over long distances. They are followed by predators - lions and hyenas. Giraffes and elephants travel much shorter distances.

  • Is there a safari in Tanzania where you can go off the road to take unusual photos