Tanzania Walking Safari – The Best Way to Get Close to the Nature of Africa
There are many to observe Tanzania’s vast and diverse wildlife. One of them is a walking safari. Walking Safaris in Tanzania takes you close to nature and helps you discover the tiniest things that are impossible on a traditional game drive.
Is it safe, what’s the best time to do it and how you should prepare for it? Let’s try to get answers of every question that goes in and around Tanzania Walking Safaris. But let’sstart with the basic.
What is a Walking Safari?
Walking Safari is typically a game drive, but it’s done on foot instead of a safari vehicle. Going on a walking safari, you can get up close and personal with wildlife and catch their cute moments.
It’s a slow-paced guided walk with an experienced guide and an armed ranger to explore Tanzania’s bushes. It’s a different perspective of understanding and observing wildlife.
Is Walking Safari Safe?
It’s a common question, that travellers ask, and as you will spend your days in Tanzania’s unfenced national parks, it’s normal to have questions like this. Walking Safaris are generally safe, and carried out by professional guides. The guides who are involved in this activity undergo extensive safety and wilderness training,
For the complete safety of travellers, these expert guides are accompanied by guards or highly-trained rangers who are trained to tackle if a mishap happens during Tanzania Walking Safaris.
Wildlife is dangerous and unpredictable, that’s why you need to be vigilant and book your walking safaris a trusted operator like Off We Go Safaris.
How Long Is A Walking Safari
Walking safaris Tanzania can vary in duration, ranging from a few hours to multiple days. Shorter walks are often conducted within national parks and reserves, lasting a few hours and accompanied by an armed guide. Longer walking safaris can be multi-day adventures, exploring diverse terrains and wildlife-rich areas.
These extended safaris can last from two to eight days or more. It’s important to consider the physical fitness requirements and potential age restrictions for such safaris.
The Best Destination to Join Walking Safaris
Tanzania offers several exceptional destinations for walking safaris, but one of the most highly recommended options is Ruaha National Park. As the largest national park in Tanzania, Ruaha boasts a diverse range of wildlife, including elephants, lions, leopards, giraffes, and an abundance of bird species. What makes Ruaha particularly special for walking safaris is its vast and untouched wilderness.
Walking through the park allows visitors to immerse themselves in the natural beauty, appreciate the smaller details, and experience a deeper connection with the environment. The park’s experienced guides lead visitors on thrilling walks, sharing their knowledge about the flora and fauna, and ensuring safety throughout the adventure.
Ruaha National Park offers an unforgettable walking safari experience with its stunning landscapes, impressive wildlife sightings, and the opportunity to truly engage with the wilderness on foot.
In addition to Ruaha, Tanzania has other notable destinations for walking safaris. Selous Game Reserve is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a prime location for walking safaris, offering encounters with elephants, hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species.
Tarangire National Park is known for its large elephant herds and baobab trees, providing a unique backdrop for Tanzania Walking Safaris.
Ngorongoro Conservation Area, with its stunning crater and high concentrations of wildlife, offers walking opportunities with experienced Maasai guides.
These destinations provide different landscapes, wildlife experiences, and ecosystems, allowing visitors to choose the one that best aligns with their preferences for a walking safari adventure in Tanzania.
What should I wear on Tanzania Walking Safaris?
When preparing for a Walking Safari Tanzania, it’s essential to wear appropriate clothing and gear to ensure comfort, safety, and suitability for the environment. Here are some recommendations on what to wear:
- Comfortable and lightweight clothing: Opt for lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton or moisture-wicking materials that will keep you cool in the heat. Long-sleeved shirts and pants are advisable to protect you from the sun, insects, and vegetation.
- Neutral and earth-tone colours: Choose clothing in muted, neutral colours such as khaki, beige, or olive green to blend in with the natural surroundings and avoid attracting unnecessary attention from wildlife.
- Sturdy and comfortable footwear: Wear closed-toe shoes or boots with good ankle support for walking on uneven terrain. It’s important to have footwear that is broken-in and comfortable to avoid blisters and provide stability.
- Hat and sunglasses: Protect yourself from the sun by wearing a wide-brimmed hat to shield your face and neck. Sunglasses with UV protection are also recommended to reduce glare and protect your eyes.
- Layering options: Depending on the time of day and location, temperatures can vary. Layer your clothing to easily adjust to changing weather conditions. A lightweight jacket or fleece can be useful for early morning or cooler evenings.
- Insect repellent: Apply insect repellent to exposed skin to protect yourself from mosquitoes and other insects. Choose a repellent that contains DEET or other recommended active ingredients.
What About My Fitness Level?
Participating in Walking Safaris Tanzania typically requires a moderate level of fitness. Walking safaris can involve several hours of walking each day in rugged and uneven terrain. It is beneficial to have endurance and strength, gained through regular exercise like walking or hiking.
While the specific fitness requirements can vary, it is advisable to consult with safari operators or guides to understand any age restrictions or specific recommendations for the walking safari you plan to undertake. Guides prioritize safety and adjust the pace and distances to accommodate the group’s fitness levels, ensuring an enjoyable experience for all travellers.
Close to the mother nature of Africa
Tanzania offers incredible opportunities for walking safaris, with destinations like Ruaha National Park providing unforgettable experiences in pristine wilderness. Moderate fitness levels are generally recommended to navigate the varied terrain and enjoy encounters with diverse wildlife.
Tanzania Walking Safaris promises adventure, immersion, and a deeper connection with nature.