Arusha, also known as “A” Town by the locals, is situated at the foot of Mount Meru, Africa’s 5th highest mountain. The altitude gives the city a pleasant climate and lush green environment. Arusha is not a particularly attractive city in itself and is regarded by many visitors as little more than a necessary stopover before their safari starts in earnest. However, the natural charm of the Tanzanians and the buzz of a fast-growing city mean that Arusha has plenty to offer for those who are prepared to see beyond their air-conditioned safari trucks and satellite-TV equipped hotel rooms.

The park is located slightly off the main safari route. Tarangire National Park is a lovely and quiet park in Northern Tanzania that is most famous for its elephant migration, birding and quiet authentic safari atmosphere. The majority of travelers to the region either miss out on Tarangire altogether or venture into the park for a matter of hours leaving parts of Tarangire virtually untouched.

The true safari experience is evident everywhere. A handful of luxury vintage tents guarantee an intimate experience with this untamed land. Unfenced territory sees animals move through the camp. Game drives on open-air safari vehicles offer unforgettable moments: watch cheetah sprint across the savannah; observe elephants’ herds on the move; thrill at the rare sight of tree-climbing lion.

We can choose to explore the sector or we stay at the lodge

This part of the park is well-known for its healthy stock of other resident wildlife, particularly the big five named for the five most prized trophies taken by hunters. Some of these are Lions: the Serengeti is believed to hold the largest population of lions in Africa due in part to the abundance of prey species. More than 3,000 lions live in this ecosystem. African Leopard: these elusive predators are commonly seen in the Seronera region but are present throughout the national park with a population of around 1,000.

Ngorongoro Crater Rim walk is a very good way to get out of the car without committing to serious walking or trekking after several days of wildlife viewing. It allows you to see tracks and signs and have the feeling of isolation that comes from trekking in the African Bush. An expert guide and armed ranger will accompany you during the walk to protect you from dangerous wildlife.

To start your Ngorongoro Crater Rim hike, you will drive to the starting point. The walk follows the Western rim of the Crater past the spectacular Oloirobi viewpoint. There are patches of forest to begin with and later it opens up into grassland. There are spectacular views down into the Crater on your right as you walk and then some more great views emerge to your left towards Olduvai Gorge, the Serengeti and the Gol mountains.