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Africa Wildlife Photography Tour

From elephants to big cats deep within the magic of Africa . We’ve mapped your safari to get you up close to the most elusive of Tanzania’s wildlife—but the wildlife is just the beginning. This tailored safari offers all the experiences you’ve dreamed of, from authentic cultural interactions to unforgettable adventures and amazing wildlife.

Photography Guide: Michelle Valberg

Nikon ambassador Canada

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Travel Details

YOUR ITINERARY

TBA 2022
Arrival into Arusha

TBA 2022
Transfer from Kilimanjaro Airport

Accommodations: Rivertrees Country Inn

Flight from Arusha to the Eastern Serengeti Ecosystem

Meet Your Guide at the Airstrip

You will be welcomed upon arrival at the airstrip. Your guide will accompany you throughout your safari, offering cultural insights, wildlife spotting expertise and in-depth knowledge of wildlife behavior.

Introduction to the Nature Refuge

Your guide will give you a brief tour and history of the 10,000-acre refuge as you make your way to camp. Enjoy wildlife viewing along the way, one of the tangible results of conservation efforts in the area. Giraffe, eland, dik dik, ostrich, leopard and even wild dog can be seen in this unique wildlife haven.

TBA 2022
Maasai Boma Visit

Immerse yourself in the semi-nomadic culture of the Maasai by visiting a boma, which is a settlement of circular mud-and-dung Maasai homes.

Learn more about their extraordinary culture as you tour the boma and take in the scenes of village life.

Late afternoon walk in the nature refuge.

Welcome Dinner

Enjoy a welcome dinner and the full Tanzanian hospitality that comes with it.

Accommodations: Eastern Serengeti Nyumba

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Morning Hike in the Eastern Serengeti Ecosystem

Maasai Storyteller

Maasai elder Nekaaki Kioki is a feisty grandmother and fantastic storyteller. She knows hundreds of Maasai folktales and tells them in a truly dramatic fashion.

Lunch at Your Camp

Sit down to a delicious home-cooked lunch with amazing views.

Afternoon Wildlife Viewing in the Eastern Serengeti Ecosystem

Enjoy wildlife viewing this afternoon in the Eastern Serengeti Ecosystem. Be on the lookout for rarer species, such as the bat-eared fox and the smaller animals that are sometimes overlooked, such as the mongoose, hyrax, dik dik, and klipspringer.

TBA 2022

Optional Night Wildlife Drive

You have the option to take to the plains and wilds after dark for a night drive in the Eastern Serengeti Ecosystem. Night drives offer thrills and possible sightings of nocturnal creatures such as spring hares, aardvarks, and porcupines. More than anything, the night drive offers an adventure few travelers in Tanzania have the chance to experience.

Accommodations: Eastern Serengeti Nyumba

Eastern Serengeti Ecosystem to Serengeti National Park

The Maasai Mara Game Reserve and Kenyan border are less than 15 miles to the north. From there, traverse over the Serengeti’s acacia covered northern corridor with wildlife viewing along the way.

TBA 2022

Optional Visit to a FoTZC Project

Focus on Tanzanian Communities (FoTZC). Visit a school, teachers housing, or a medical dispensary that were all requested by the community and built by FoTZC. Learn a little bit about sustainability, how these projects are selected, and how they impact the community.

Boxed Lunch en Route

Wildlife Viewing En Route to Your Nyumba

Tanzanian game from your guide, write in your journal, or simply put up your feet and relax.

Accommodations: Southern Serengeti Nyumba

Serengeti National Park

The most social of the big cats, lions live in groups called prides, comprised mostly of females and cubs and only 1-2 adult males. Typically prides have 6-12 lions, but can sometimes have more than 30 members.

TBA 2022

Optional Serengeti Balloon Excursion

Those with advance reservations will have the opportunity to balloon across the plains during

one of your mornings in the Serengeti. A pre-dawn wake-up call leaves you time to drive to the balloon launch site in order to catch the most dramatic light.

Morning Wildlife Viewing in the Serengeti

There is nothing as marvelous as traversing the plains of the Serengeti just after dawn and through the morning hours. Look for herds of wildebeest, zebra, giraffe, impala, eland, topi, and more out on the savanna.

Continue Your Exploration of the Serengeti

Explore the pristine landscapes of the Serengeti with your guide’s uncanny wildlife spotting instincts leading the way.

Accommodations: Southern Serengeti Nyumba

Full Day of Wildlife Viewing in the Serengeti

Go on a wildlife viewing drive in the Serengeti for a full day. Your expert guide will point out wildlife that few others could hope to spot, whether a leopard well-concealed in the trees or a lion deep in the savannah grasses.

Bush Lunch

Enjoy a bush lunch in the Serengeti.

Bow and Arrow Demonstration

An askari (watchman) from camp will demonstrate how to shoot the traditional, hand-made bow and arrow of the Ikoma people, who are known for their hunting prowess.

TBA 2022

Accommodations: Southern Serengeti Nyumba

Serengeti National Park to Ngorongoro Conservation Area

Established in the late 1950s, Ngorongoro Conservation Area balances wildlife preservation alongside human settlements. The area covers about 3,200 square miles from the shore of Lake Eyasi to the south, the edge of the Great Rift Valley to the east, the border of the Loliondo Game Controlled Area to the North and the boundaries of Serengeti National Park to the west. Resident wildlife populations in the crater and seasonal migratory populations around the Serengeti make this an integral part of Tanzania.

Wildlife Viewing as You Depart the Serengeti

Visit Olduvai Gorge

Make a short stop at Olduvai Gorge, a deep ravine and site of fossilized remains of animals and hominids that date as far back as two million years are included.

Special Tanzanian Dinner

Enjoy a traditional Tanzanian dinner this evening. Rich with spices and fresh local vegetables, this is a chance to sample the best of local cuisine. (Please note that this does not include game meat.)

Accommodations: Ngorongoro Nyumba

TBA 2022

Ngorongoro Conservation Area

TBA 2022

Visit to the Floor of Ngorongoro Crater

Visit the Ngorongoro Crater, where you are likely to find an abundance of wildlife. With luck, you might even see rhinoceros and big cats, such as lion and cheetah. The diversity of species often inspires awe, from baboons and elephants in the Lerai Forest to wildebeest and mountain reedbuck over the crater’s grassy floor.

Picnic Lunch on the Crater Floor

Watch the Sunset Overlooking the Ngorongoro Crater

Another Day of Wildlife Viewing in Ngorongoro Crater

Continue your exploration of the crater today, searching out more wildlife and taking some of the most impressive scenery in Africa.

Accommodations: Ngorongoro Nyumba

TBA 2022

Ngorongoro Conservation Area to Ngorongoro Highlands

TBA 2022

Gibb’s Farm Tour

Take a guided tour of Gibb’s garden, a sloping 10 acres of vegetables and fruit gardens.

Optional Spa Services

Immerse yourself in the healing and relaxing services of the African Living Spa, includingmassages and treatments as developed by a third generation traditional Maasai healer. (Additional fee)

Farewell Dinner

Enjoy your farewell dinner in Tanzania, giving you time to reflect on the many sights, adventures, and experiences that you will remember for years and years to come.

Accommodations: Gibb’s Farm – Cottage Room

Depart Tarangire for Arusha, where, after a day of leisurely activities, you will catch your departing flight.

Stop at Cultural Heritage Center

Farewell Lunch at Arusha Coffee Lodge

Enjoy a special farewell lunch in Arusha as you prepare for your departure.

Day Room in Arusha

Transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport

Complimentary with Delta/KLM departure this evening.

Accommodations: Day Room at Mount Meru Hotel

7 Day Kyambura and Bwindi Safari Extension on Tanzania Safari

 

TBA 2022

Links to both destinations:

https://volcanoessafaris.com/kyambura-gorge-lodge-uganda/
https://volcanoessafaris.com/bwindi-lodge-uganda/

TBA 2022 – Arrive in Entebbe in time for the 12pm flight to Kasese, visit Rwenzori Sculpture

Foundation ON Kyambura Gorge Lodge LD

TBA 2022 – Chimp tracking and afternoon launch cruise on Kazinga channel ON Kyambura

Gorge Lodge BLD

TBA 2022– Chimp tracking in Kalinzu and afternoon Lion tracking and game drive ON

Kyambura Gorge Lodge BLD

TBA 2022 – Brief game drive in Ishasha and transfer to Buhoma ON Bwindi Lodge BLD

TBA 2022 – Gorilla tracking in Bwindi, lunch at Bwindi bar ON Bwindi Lodge BLD

TBA 2022 – Gorilla tracking in Bwindi and engage in the tea tour ON Bwindi Lodge BLD

TBA 2022– Transfer by road to Kihihi Airstrip and fly back to Entebbe for your onward flight

This itinerary gives us an opportunity to stay 3 nights Kyambura Gorge Lodge and 3 nights at Bwindi Lodge You will have deluxe rooms in Kyambura and standard rooms in Bwindi.

It 2 offers chimpanzee tracking opportunities and 2 gorilla tracking opportunities.

What to Bring

Soft-Sided Duffel Bag

Due to aircraft and vehicle space in Tanzania, your checked luggage must
be a soft-sided duffel bag no larger than 30”L x 15”W x 15”H, without a rigid structure. Wheeled duffels are acceptable if they do not have hard sides.

Please see our safari store for an appropriate model. Baggage cannot exceed 33 pounds.

 

Soft-Sided Day Pack

This bag will serve as your carry-on for international flights and can then be used as your day pack while in Tanzania. During your flight to Tanzania, this bag should contain one complete change of clothes, medications, essential toiletries, binoculars, your camera and other irreplaceable items, like your passport, wallet and electronics.

 

CLOTHING

  • Short-sleeve shirts (1/day)
  • Long-sleeve shirts (2) (layering, sun/mosquito protection)
  • Shorts (2)
  • Convertible, lightweight zip-off pants (2)
  • Khaki pants or casual skirt (1)
  • Underwear (1/day) (women may consider bringing sports bras)
  • Fleece or insulated jacket (for cool nights at Ngorongoro Crater or in Serengeti)
  • Waterproof windbreaker (or an inexpensive poncho)
  • Wide-brim, tie-on sun hat
  • Bathing suit (for lodges with pools)
  • Lightweight, comfortable sleepwear (personal preference)

 

FOOTWEAR

  • Running or walking shoes, or light hikers
  • Second pair of shoes or sandals
  • Flip-flops/Teva-type sandals (recommended for use in showers)
  • Socks (1 pair/day)

 

ESSENTIALS

  • Travel documents (valid passport with visa, airline tickets, money, and a credit card for emergencies)
  • This Prep Guide and additional items from your Final Packet (sent to you 30 days before departure)
  • Flashlight and/or headlamp (with extra batteries)
  • Sunglasses (100% UV screening w/retainer straps)
  • Sunscreen and lip balm with SPF 30 +
  • Mosquito repellent containing DEET (up to 50%)
  • Citronella based repellent for tsetse flies
  • Anti-itch cream
  • Bandanas (3) (these have many uses, including protection from dust)
  • Hand wipes (1-3 per day per traveler)
  • Hand sanitizer (1 small bottle)
  • Toilet kit (toothbrush and paste, biodegradable bodywash, moisturizing lotion, small packet of tissues, shaving gear, tampons and panty liners; avoid plastic tampon applicators)
  • Binoculars (8×40/42 models are excellent choices; center focus binoculars are best)
  • Money belt, neck pouch, or fanny pack
  • Assortment of stuff sacks and zip-lock bags
  • Spare glasses (contact lens wearers should bring solution and wear glasses when it gets dusty)

 

OPTIONAL ITEMS

  • Eye drops
  • Wristwatch or travel alarm clock
  • Reading material
  • European and U.K. electrical outlet adapters (for lodge stays)
  • Ear plugs

 

Your Camera Gear: If you wish to discuss specifics regarding which camera bodies and lenses you own and which ones are best suited to the trip, Michelle will be happy to discuss that with you.

What’s Included

Included On Safari

  • Accommodations Based on Double Occupancy
  • Meals as Noted in Itinerary, Inclusive of Restaurant Staff Tips
  • All Park Fees
  • Complete Preparation Materials Including Helpful Tips, Packing List, Trip Expectations, Tipping Guidelines, Etc.
  • Access to a Personal Safari Trip Manager by Phone or Email, Five Days a Week
  • Full Color Safari Journal
  • Safari Briefings Throughout Your Trip
  • Services of Professional Safari Guides and Drivers
  • Services of Nyumba Camp Staff Including Chef and Waitstaff
  • Land Transportation in a Customized, 4-Wheel Drive Safari Vehicle
  • Unlimited Mileage in Safari Vehicles
  • Village, School, and Cultural Visits as Noted in Itinerary
  • Guaranteed Window Seating in Safari Vehicles
  • Scenic Internal Flight(s) as Noted in Itinerary
  • Guided Walks with a Naturalist, when Available
  • Complimentary Bottled Drinking Water in Your Vehicle Throughout Your Safari
  • Keep Fit Kit at Each Nyumba Camp
  • $200 per Person Nature Refuge Conservation Fee
  • Airport Transfers for Delta/KLM Flights on Scheduled Arrival and Departure Days
  • Baggage Handling
  • Farewell Lunch

 

Not Included On Safari

  • International Flight and Related Fees (Fuel, Baggage, Seat Assignments, etc.)
  • Meals and Expenses en Route to Tanzania
  • Fees for Passport, Visa, or Immunizations
  • Cost of Hospitalization or Evacuation
  • Beer, Wine, Spirits, and Soda
  • Laundry, Phone, Internet, and Items of a Personal Nature
  • Tips for Guides, Drivers, and Camp Staff.
Dates and Cost

Date:  2022 Dates To Be Announced: Inquire to have your name added to the list once details are finalized.  All tours in flux due to COV-ID.

Price: To Be Announced

A $1000 deposit is required to reserve a spot on this remarkable adventure with Michelle Valberg

Paid to Adventure Canada – they will handle all the bookings.

There will be no more than 6 people in a vehicle.

Date: 7 Day Kyambura and Bwindi Uganda Safari Extension on Tanzania Safari – TBA

2023 Dates To Be Announced: Inquire to have your name added to the list once details are finalized

Approximate cost: To Be Announced

Required deposit is 20% to Volcanoes Safaris

Final balance is due 30 days prior to arrival.

Video

Testimonials

“I traveled with Michelle to Tanzania a few years ago. It was magical. Michelle's passion for photography, teaching and travel is obvious. She is dedicated to inspiring others through some pretty amazing and cool opportunities. I would highly recommend this African adventure with Michelle - you won't be disappointed.”

David

Get In Touch

Interested in this trip, giving us feedback or perhaps putting together a private, custom adventure?

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