Walking Safaris – The Ultimate way to Experience Tanzania

in Safari Destinations by Araneta&Tan — September 10, 2009 at 3:38 pm | 1 comment

Many people dream about going on a safari one day. Heading out to the open plains of Africa and seeing wild animals in their natural environments is one of those experiences that is hard to beat. But there are many different types of safari. Most of them involve travelling in a 4×4, which allows you to get right up to the action and cover great distances. But for the ultimate experience you should consider taking a walking safari.

Walking safaris in Tanzania provide a unique way to see Africa’s landscape and wildlife. Without being restricted by the confines of a vehicle, you are totally exposed to the elements. 4×4 safaris are great, and they allow you to see and do so much. But walking really places you right into the middle of the experience and increases the atmosphere of your surroundings. Simply put, there is no other way to get to see nature so close up. You are suddenly at their level, walking the earth as they do, and it can be a thrilling experience.

There can be something quite unsettling about walking across the African bush with the knowledge that nearby you are surrounded by wild animals. But this is one of the thrills of the experience. Of course, there is also that little element of danger involved, but you will be accompanied by a qualified, armed ranger at all times. And besides, most animals will not come too close during your walking safari and will give you plenty of room. So although it may feel dangerous, you’ll be completely safe

Of course, you have to be reasonably fit and healthy to go on a walking safari in Tanzania as you can’t just sit down and be carried. It may be hard going, and sometimes a minimum age of 16 is imposed. But you’ll travel at a comfortable speed, and you’ll be able to spend time stopping to enjoy the smaller points of interest on the plains. In a vehicle you could never get close enough to watch the ants and the dung beetles going about their business, but on foot not only will you be travelling at a slower pace to allow you to notice all these things, but you can get right up close to the action.

One of the main attractions of a walking safari in Africa is the personal nature of the experience. You won’t bump into other tourists during your adventure, which can sometimes be frustrating. Instead, you’ll get the whole place to yourself, and it will feel like you are the only people there. The quietness can be incredible, and there will be no sounds of machines to spoil the trip – just you and the natural surroundings.

And when you see the animals it will be an experience like no other. It is difficult to describe the thrill of coming across a giraffe ambling through the forest, or a herd of elephants bathing in a watering hole just twenty metres away. Watch, observe, and take your time to appreciate the fact that you are here in their territory now, far away from the comforts of civilisation.

The best places for walking safaris are in the quieter parks of Tanzania where you are less likely to come across other tourists. These could include the mighty Selous Game Reserve or the remote Ruaha in the south of the country. Here you will likely be the only group for miles, enjoying your own special experience of one of the most magical safari trips that you can imagine.

Tags: safari Tanzania