Theobald Barber

It still grips your attention, for where else can you experience such an enormous expanse of savannah, trammelled by over a million wildebeest in their revolving quest for nutrient rich grass? It is here nearly two million years ago where the evolutionary cradle for early hominoids was formed and here where man first lived alongside the wild animals. The Maasai still do.

But Tanzania offers a myriad of other delights. This, after all, is a country that has over 50% of the world’s lion population, the second largest bird count in Africa, and the second deepest lake in the world, fringed by tropical forest and inhabited by chimpanzee. The country has 38% of its land mass protected.

One certainly hasn’t “done” Tanzania simply by going to the Serengeti. High up on my list for a second visit would be the Ruaha National Park. This is where, in the late ’80s, I saw my first lion which was lolling on the track as we made our way out of the park early one morning.

Ruaha statistics:

• The park is home to more than 10% of the world’s lion population, herds of up to one thousand buffalo and topi in the dry season, the third largest wild dog population in Africa and the largest elephant population in Tanzania;
• Lesser seen species are present such as wild dog, sable antelope, roan antelope, Lichtenstein’s hartebeest and both lesser and greater kudu;
• A total area of 20,226 square kilometres, with relatively few vehicles and visitor numbers that are nearly 95% lower than to the Serengeti, means an uncrowded safari and a true wilderness experience;
• It is a twitcher’s paradise where southern and eastern species meet.

New camp near Usangu wetland: Usangu Expedition Camp with only 4 comfy tents.

• These wetlands are of critical conservation importance and the source of the Great Ruaha river;
• For Land Rover enthusiasts! Two innovative ‘’upcycled’’ Land Rovers that run on ethanol. V8 engine for quietness;
• New night drive experience using thermal imaging technology with no disturbance to wildlife;
• Hands-on conservation and research activities with the local research station;
• The chance to participate in the conservation activities, posting sightings on iNaturalist app and becoming an “ambassador” to protect this fragile environment;
• Food cooked on an open fire with guests.