Archive for January, 2015
ZARA TOURS AWARDS
2017 – Zara’s Ngorongoro Wildcamp awarded Certificate of Excellence by Trip Advisor.
2016 – Zara’s Ikoma Wildcamp awarded Certificate of Excellence by Trip Advisor.
2015 – Traveler’s Eye Presents Sustainable Business Award honoring Zara Tanzania Adventures for its outstanding contribution in Conservation, Community Development, and Capacity Building Achievement – Tourism for future Africa Awards – 2015.
2015 – Zara’s Ngorongoro Wildcamp awarded Certificate of Excellence by Trip Advisor.
2015 – Zara Tours Awarded a Certificate of Appreciation by Africa travel Association ( ATA) for outstanding contribution in Promotion of Travel to Africa.
2014- Tanzania National Parks presented the Best Tour Company Annual Awards, to Zara Tanzania Adventures & Zara Tours in Recognition for its outstanding business contribution (GameSafaris) for the Fiscal year 2013 –
2014/2015 – Zara’s Ikoma Wildcamp awarded Certificate of Excellence by Trip Advisor.
2013/2014 – Zara’s Highview Hotel awarded Certificate of Excellence by Trip Advisor
2013 – Zara Tours winner of Canadian Certificate of Excellence in Commerce.
2012 – Zara’s owner, Zainab Ansell, received Business Entrepreneur of the Year Award for running a successful Tour Operating Company.
2012 – Zara presented with Humanitarian Award in London at the World Travel Market (WTM).
2012 – Zara Charity received the Ngorongoro Marathon Award for organizing a successful race to fight Malaria.
2011 – Tanzania Tourist Board (TTB) presents Zara with Sustainable Tourism Award.
ZARA TOURS AWARDED A CERTIFICATE OF APPRECIATION BY AFRICA TRAVEL ASSOCIATION (ATA) FOR OUTSTANDING CONTRIBUTION IN PROMOTION OF TRAVEL TO AFRICA.
January 27, 2015, in Los Angeles, California Michael Madison, The President of Africa Travel Association (ATA) Presented a certificate of Appreciation to Zara Tours for its Outstanding Contribution to the advancement and Promotion of Travel to Africa, and collected by Mr. Rashid Adam, the Director of marketing for Zara Tours.
About ZARA TOURS;
ZARA TOURS, founded in 1987, is currently the No. 1 Kilimanjaro outfitter in Tanzania and one of the largest safari operators in the country. Proud to be known as one of the best operators in the region with a reputation for providing an exceptional, unforgettable and safe experience, ZARA TOURS owns and operates two hotels and four tented camps, has 88 safari and climbing expert guides who speak English, German and Spanish, and a fleet of fully-equipped vehicles that take tourists on safari adventures or treks up Mt. Kilimanjaro. ZARA TOURS also runs ZARA Charity, which plays a vital role in the local community by supporting vulnerable groups such as orphans, Maasai women group, and more.
SPEECH BY ZAINAB ANSELL; THE DIRECTOR OF ZARA TANZANIA ADVENTURES ON PUBLIC LECTURE HELD AT MOSHI COOPERATIVE UNIVERSITY, ON THE THEME: “UNEXPLOITED OPPORTUNITIES IN TOURISM INDUSTRY”.
Yours Excellencies, Distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen.
I am delighted to be invited and to join all of you here; this is my first invitation to Moshi Cooperative University Session.
I am entrepreneur with dedications on Tourism sector with particular interests on accommodation facilities, mountain climbing and safari business in Tanzania and East Africa at large. I officially founded a company called ZARA tours in 1987. I have been socially responsible about the impacts of Tourism activities and have developed my business around sustainable development practices and I strongly believe and practice giving back to the community.
Yours Excellencies, Distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen
It is my pleasure to congratulate and thanks Moshi Cooperative University Authority (MoCU) in collaboration with the Universities Providers Worldwide (UPW) for organizing such a great session. Their support is very much appreciated, with the fact that, the impact of this event will not only benefit and empower University students in Tanzania but the general public attending, especially those who want to take my path to become entrepreneur. “WE ZARA TANZANIA ADVENTURES STAND FOR GRADUATE STUDENTS, YOUNG LADIES, THE NEEDY, THE VOICELESS, WE WANT TO SUPPORT THEM AND SEE THEM GROW” Moshi Cooperative University (MoCU) you have shown us how much you care and how much you are dedicated to play your role for Empowering Graduate in our Country and beyond. May God abundantly repay you!
Yours Excellencies, Distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen
As a woman, an Entrepreneur and Director of Zara Tanzania Adventure apart of being a tour operator, I have engaged on a lot of other social issues in my country particularly those directly affecting orphan, children, Women, Youth, the needy and mitigation of the impact of climate change from environmental perspective. more details Zara charity Tanzania
Hon. Dr. President, Jakaya Mrisho Kikwete the current (President of The United Republic of Tanzania) commended and appreciated in person the contributions of Zara Tanzania Adventures in Tourism Industry and the community of the United Republic of Tanzania. To me that was reflection of trust and of course good gesture of reflection how ZARA Adventure is perceived beyond our offices.
Yours Excellencies, Distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen
As a woman in developing country to achieve all this is not an easy task of which I really and highly express my sincere thanks to family and friends for invaluable support in making this company what it is today. I also pose this as a challenge to University Providers and Graduate students in Tanzania, Africa in Particular and the world at large to be very strong with ambitions and commitment as we endure in addressing some of the core and new challenges we face for our economic development.
Yours Excellences, Distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen
As I started this company to date I have been on a number of issues….
- Way back to my Background, Early life and education,
- When I graduated school my thought was to start something but the vision was not clear of how will I go about it, such the issue of capital, bureaucracy in registering business…. etc.. etc..
- My working experiences with Air Tanzania “a good path to my dream come true”.
- My Decision to Quit ATC and start ZARA….. “One of the hard and important decision”
- Challenges when I Quit ATC and start ZARA. “Being a WOMAN in my world at that time……”
My Dear all having the above introductory remarks, please allows me to share some of my thoughts and experiences “Tourism as an Integral Part of Tanzanian Economy”.
Tourism has become the world’s largest industry, according to the World Tourism Organization Findings; no surprise when one considers that it incorporates the world’s oldest profession. In some developing regions, such as the Caribbean or the South Pacific, tourism is the primary sector in which significant economic growth takes place. In other regions, including areas of Latin America, Africa, the Middle East, and formerly communist Eastern Europe, tourism is just beginning to take off. In all of these areas, tourism’s impact has been decidedly mixed.
Yours Excellences, Distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen
In spite of its natural beauty, the Tanzania tourism sector still remains relatively untapped, receiving approximately 600,000 visitors per annum compared with neighboring Kenya’s million + visitors. In the past, despite Tanzania’s record of political stability, the unattractive investment climate discouraged foreign investment. This is no longer the case and the Government’s determination to create an environment conducive to private investment, combined with Tanzania’s natural beauty and the potential of the tourism sector, have made Tanzania an extremely viable and appealing market for investment ”Investment opportunities are in all sub sectors of tourism in Tanzania, such as hotels construction, restaurants, air operations, ground operations, supplier of tourism products such [vegetables, chickens meet, Milk, beef, gift shop] to mention a few,”
In its early stages tourism in the country was very minor, “because of the conservative approach [but] later on, as the government changed its political approach from socialism to a free market economy, investment in the protected areas was promoted and this opened up a new dimension for the development of tourism in Tanzania.” Since 1995, the tourism industry has been increasing at a rate of around 10% per annum and today, most tourists come directly to Tanzania, with only 20 to 30% coming via Kenya. Tourism plays a key role in the country’s economy;
- It is one of the main sources of foreign exchange and it offers employment opportunities both directly (supporting around 198,557 direct jobs) and indirectly [the suppliers of tourism Products and services].
- Tourism accounts for around 16% of the GDP and nearly 25% of total export earnings.
It is, therefore, seen as a vital industry in terms of job creation, poverty alleviation and foreign exchange earnings. By the year 2010, the Government hopes to reach the target of one million tourists per year. The impact of tourism to the national economy is expected to reach US$ 3,699.4 million by 2015.
However, while the Government is keen to develop and promote tourism in Tanzania, it is also committed to sustainable tourism in order to preserve its natural and cultural resources.
Yours Excellences, Distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen
Tourism industry positions itself as a major employer for graduates globally and an industry that is Graduate friendly – opening doors for Graduates! However research and the stories of women engaged in tourism around the world has shown repeatedly that it is an industry that is far from being gender friendly. EQUATIONS work in this area examines the realities of tourism from the women perspective – particularly its most exploitative impact – Poverty alleviation. I also examine ways in which women can have greater access, control and ownership over livelihoods and natural resources as well as access to the benefits in the context of tourism. I Endeavour to influence policy makers for gender-sensitive models and policies for tourism. Through networking with government, tourism promoters and industry, media, monitoring impacts and research on tourism I aim to highlight these links. EQUATIONS work to ensure that the aspect of graduates receives attention in all our research studies and interventions and such to highly key areas and initiative for empowerment.
Yours Excellences, Distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen
Have also Identified some of the Challenge for Graduate in Tanzania.
- Inadequate Employment opportunities. And such Companies and other institutions when want to employ they will ask for experience. You will hear that [we need 2, 3years experience].
- Limited Capital and microfinance for Graduate would be entrepreneurs.
- Lack of awareness of opportunities for students to invest in Tourism and other Sector.
- Entrepreneurship skills and courage [Few graduates have the skills and courage].
- Inadequate Support, networking and Partnership.
- Graduate Mindset.
– Graduate fails to use their knowledge and skills to employ themselves as entrepreneurs in their field of studies and available opportunities.
– Negative attitudes towards graduate entrepreneurship.
- Lack of trusted business partners / employees.
- Lack of proper Infrastructures and the need for new technology i.e. Internet connectivity.
- Low quality of Product and services.
- Lack of proper skills including languages, to help graduate employ themselves.
Yours Excellences, Distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen
Have also identified some of the Opportunities for graduates in Tourism Industry.
- Training opportunities i.e. opportunities for field attachment.
- Employment Opportunities.
- Investment opportunities [Involve in production and supplier of Tourism products and services such as Vegetable farming, poultry production, milk], Establishment of information & cultural center i.e. at tourist destination area, Establishment of Resort and recreational center.
- Marketing opportunities the fact that our country is not well promoted.
- Monitoring and Research Opportunities [Identifying new forms of tourism and the new need for Tourist, available opportunities for investors].
- Involved in planning, Decision making and implementation.
WAY FORWARD/WHAT NEED TO BE DONE:
- The higher learning institutions, Universities Provides Worldwide and educators are challenged to innovate ways in which entrepreneurship courses will address issues that entrepreneurs face in Tanzania.
- Creating a good environment for graduates to invest, this will include providing them with important knowledge and skills.
- The Need for short courses for Capacity Building on entrepreneurship skills through training and development.
- Capital and support from Government, NGOs financial institutions. [To help graduate, women and other groups source fund for their entrepreneurship]
- Establishment of Networking and partnerships [globalization].
- Identification of potential areas for Graduates to invest in the tourism industry, other sectors as well as awareness rising to the general public.
- The need to increase Research and Monitoring on graduate and Entrepreneurship skills.
- The Need to improve business registration and taxation procedures.
- Improving general awareness of entrepreneurship skills.
- Partnering with and Assistance from other entrepreneurs.
- Good publicity of entrepreneurs in media, fostering legitimacy and reputation.
- Entrance of foreign role models [learning from entrepreneurs of other countries]
- Political and policy change.
Yours Excellences, Distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen
The premises of this unique collection as I was preparing this speech is that Graduates Roles in tourism industry is highly important, just as are their other positions in societies; and that Graduates themselves are affected in different ways by tourism depending on such factors as race, region, and class (leisured consumer vs. working producer, or guest vs. host). My general understanding for example Graduates role in the less-developed tourist destinations, the Middle East, Latin America, Africa, and eastern Europe; is less, unpredictable and thus has good implication for the future of economic development, policy issues and gender relations in tourism Industry.
Yours Excellences, Distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen
In 2015, the national theme for the Tourism Day can be “Tourism Opens Doors for Graduates.” As an opportunity to take the debate further on identifying challenges and opportunities for graduates to improve their economy from tourism Industry, as well as to understand the speech-making of the policy maker. An invitation from the University Providers Worldwide to participate in a high level think tank from around the world will help us in this task. I influence the University Providers Worldwide, Researchers to include aspects of graduates challenges and opportunities in their training, Research and work to bring out best solutions, Status report on the status of Graduates in tourism and to ensure that Graduates from all field had a role in influencing tourism policy and practice.
To wind up, Apart from those who are employed Graduates Involvement and Participation in Tourism Industry” has been unpredictable in some years and for our Economic empowerment at least we need to support each other in numbers of ways such by rising the awareness on available opportunities, giving them proper education and skills, Establishment of Networking, exposing to micro-finance’s and financial institution for capital, give each other courage through experiences but also identifying available opportunities in the tourism industry for graduates to invest as well as awareness aims at bringing youth aspects of tourism to the attention of policy makers, especially the role and position of Graduates in the economy, issues of graduate’s employment in the tourism industry and participation in tourism planning and management.
Graduates should be encouraged to get involved in independent community based tourism initiatives, through promoting the opportunities, offering advice, contacts and networks, training and education, access to information and access to credit – by national and local governments, trade unions, NGOs and industry collaborating with National graduates initiatives.
To University Providers Worldwide: Training and education programmes should aim at impacting graduates with important skills and identifying available opportunities for them to take entrepreneur initiatives by encouraging and helping them to change their mindset and find ways to employ them instead of looking for employment opportunities, which is unpredictable. This needs to be visible in the context of University and University Providers Worldwide in supporting graduates and the national economy. My appeal to the Universities in the Country is to identify and expose available opportunities for graduates to invest.
Intergovernmental bodies, national governments and NGOs should support Graduates’ initiatives to improve awareness and ability of stakeholders to participate effectively, including using electronic media. However, the effort of addressing graduates’ challenges and groups need to be tackled in collaboration with local government and local NGOs.
Today more than ever before, we need to learn from our past economies, live consciously and meaningfully our present and with strong determination planning for the future. Let us be active supporters, humble contributors who can make initiatives calmly, actively, intellectually, historically, magnificently and productively for our economies, other graduates in the World and the entire Generation.
I am optimistic that these Public Lectures sessions will help us to lead our Graduates determine their aspirations, positions, needs, desires, challenges and reality on the basis of finding, seeing, judging, reflecting, actions and success of our Economy and our mother Country.
It is upon these questions that we need to focus on, bring in support for graduate organizations and see that the tourism issue is included in their agenda and that we adopt their understanding on Entrepreneurship and graduate issues in our agenda. There is need, therefore, to build a data base and alliances with different universities in the Country and if possible world wide, the industry and social activists and concerned citizen groups to study the issue of Graduates and debate the model being implemented in Tourism. Information and awareness is not only to be based on the motivations of the tourists and their need for services and products. It is to be based on the needs of the people and their perceptions of how tourism is to be developed and what benefits are to be derived. We must also be made aware of the negative consequences of tourism.
Finally, there is the issue of income generation as the only measure of development. Income, particularly in the case of tourism, is not stable, not under the control of the hosts, but manipulated by trade itself.
Secondly, income alone need not indicate growth or mobility because income is only one relation in the production-consumption process, and its impact on interconnected social issues need not be productive or liberating. As far as the issue of foreign exchange earnings is concerned, one must examine how global economy and lifestyle affects graduates and the community. In what way does it to bring graduates more power, influence and prosperity? In what way does it bring success to them? Does income or foreign exchange change graduates’ perceptions of society to transform the social position of Graduate? Attempting to answer these questions and issues will be the first step in the direction of empowering Graduates as they plan not only for today but also for the future because once the engines of graduate entrepreneurship have been set in motion, it will be difficult to stop them.
I thank you wholeheartedly for listening to me. THANK YOU!
About ZARA TOURS:
ZARA TOURS, founded in 1987, is currently the No. 1 Kilimanjaro outfitter in Tanzania and one of the largest safari operators in the country. Proud to be known as one of the best operators in the region with a reputation for providing an exceptional, unforgettable and safe experience, ZARA TOURS owns and operates two hotels and four tented camps, has 88 safari and climbing expert guides who speak English, German and Spanish, and a fleet of fully-equipped vehicles that take tourists on safari adventures or treks up Mt. Kilimanjaro. ZARA TOURS also runs ZARA Charity, which plays a vital role in the local community by supporting vulnerable groups such as orphans, maasai women group, and more.
www.zaratours.com, www.zaratoursadventures.com, www.zaraproperties.com, Email: zara@zaratours.com
(Photo Mama Zara addressing Moshi Cooperative University Congregation.)
ZARA TOURS TO HOST THE EIHGTH ANNUAL NGORONGORO RUN.
Scheduled to take place on 18th April 2015, Ngorongoro Marathon is among unique community themed-multi-cultural series of events designed with entertainment packages including but not limited to adventure safari’s (pre & post marathon tour packages), open festivals, overnight carnivals, football matches, stage performances and red carpet award ceremony; heavily concentrated in Karatu town for almost five days including pre-events.
History: Ngorongoro marathon is a community outreach initiative bestowed under Zara Charity Tanzania and the idea was invented in 2008 by Ms. Leila Ansell and Mama Zainab Ansell among CEO’s of ZARATanzania Adventures in supporting Zara Charity organization community development projects. Together with various stakeholders the race was positively accepted and promoted to its success. Until its 7th season Ngorongoro marathon took on promotional campaigns for Malaria being entitled “The Race against Malaria”. Ngorongoro marathon is officially registered and recognized with international standards of athletics association worldwide.
More impacts like Maasai women and children empowerment have been observed throughout Karatu and neighboring places apart from malaria case which presents a visible prevalence setback of 8.7 to 0.4 to date.
Currently, we anticipate more positive impacts whereas education project for Maasai community in Ngorongoro conservation area (Endulen), as well as local tourism are considered to be seasonal priority.
Primarily objectives for the existence of this marathon are as follows;
I. Promoting art and culture by bringing together both locals and foreigners as a multicultural festival.
II. Raising funds for charity works and other community interventions.
III. Promoting both local and international tourism in Tanzania.
IV. Creating awareness for health and environmental conservation issues (whereas MALARIA have been given priority over the last 7 years).
V. Promoting Education.
Warmest regards,
ZARA Charity Team.
PUBLIC LECTURE ON “TOURISM”
MOSHI, KILIMANJARO, TANZANIA: The Universities Providers Worldwide (UPW) in collaboration with Moshi Cooperative University and IBF/Africa has organized a “Public Lecturer” at Moshi Cooperative University on “Tourism as an Integral Part of Tanzanian Economy”.
Public lectures are part of college and public education and it will be given by Madame Zainab Ansel on January 29, 2015.
The lecture would highlight Ms. Ansel’s resounding 28 years experienced as an entrepreneur in the tourism industry as the Managing Director of ZARA Tanzania Adventures and former Air Tanzania staff.
We expect the issue of Sports Tourism to be exploited fully and graduates to be sensitise about the benefits of engaging in the tourism sector after the completion of their college degrees.
We welcome the education stakeholders and the public to come in big numbers! You are welcome
They call it Africa!
We call it Home!
THE BEAUTY OF AFRICA WITH ZARA TANZANIA ADVENTURES
Introducing Tanzania: Wildlife, beaches, ruins, Mt Kilimanjaro, friendly people, fascinating cultures – Tanzania has all these and more wrapped up in one adventurous, welcoming package.
Captivating Cultures
Wherever you go, opportunities abound for getting to know Tanzania’s people and cultures. Meet red-cloaked Maasai warriors. Spend time with the semi-nomadic Barabaig near Mt Hanang. Experience the hospitality of a local meal or the rhythms of traditional dance. Watch Makonde carvers bring wood to life. Chat and barter at local markets in the Usambara Mountains. More than anything else, it is Tanzanians themselves – with their characteristic warmth and politeness, and the dignity and beauty of their cultures – who make a visit so memorable. Chances are that you’ll want to come back for more, to which most Tanzanians will say ‘karibu tena’ (welcome again).
Idyllic Beaches
It’s not just the wildlife that enchants. Tanzania’s Indian Ocean coastline is also magical, with tranquil islands and sleepy coastal villages steeped in centuries of Swahili culture. Travel back in time to the days when the East African coast was the seat of sultans and a linchpin in a far-flung trading network extending to Persia, India and beyond. Relax on powdery beaches. Take in pastel-hued sunrises, immerse yourself in languid coastal rhythms, and sit beneath billowing sails on a wooden dhow.
Mt Kilimanjaro
Inland, Mt Kilimanjaro beckons, its graceful, forested flanks rising up to a stately snow-capped summit. It is Africa’s highest peak and one of the world’s highest freestanding mountains. Climbers by the thousands venture here to challenge themselves on its muddy slopes, rocky trails and slippery scree. The rewards: the thrill of standing at the top of Africa; magnificent views of Kilimanjaro’s ice fields; and witnessing the sunrise illuminating the plains far below.
Why I Love Tanzania
By Mary Fitzpatrick, Author
I love Tanzania because of the light, colors and life in almost every scene. Especially at dawn: the rising sun floods the cool grasslands with gold, school children walk along the roadsides and vendors set out their wares. And when nature surrounds you, there is exuberance everywhere: the largest of animals mingle with the most minute; birds of every size and color soar and sing; trees and plants burst with flowers; landscapes are colorful and diverse. Mostly, though, it’s because of the equanimity, charm, dignity and welcome offered by so many Tanzanians.
Wonderful Wildlife
More than almost any other destination, Tanzania is the land of safaris. Wildebeest stampede across the plains. Hippos jostle for space in muddy waterways. Elephants wander along seasonal migration routes and chimpanzees swing through the treetops. Throughout the country, there are unparalleled opportunities to experience this natural wealth. Take a boat safari down the Rufiji River past snoozing crocodiles in Selous Game Reserve. Watch giraffes silhouetted against ancient baobab trees in Ruaha National Park. Sit motionless as waterbirds peck in the shallows around Rubondo Island. Drive to Serengeti to witness the greatest wildlife show on Earth. Hold your breath while a lion pads in front of your vehicle in Ngorongoro Crater.
About ZARA TOURS
ZARA TOURS, founded in 1987, is currently the No. 1 Kilimanjaro outfitter in #Tanzania and one of the largest safari operator in the country. Proud to be known as one of the best operators in the region with a reputation for providing an exceptional, unforgettable and safe experience, ZARA TOURS owns and operates two hotels and four tented camps, has 88 safari and climbing expert guides who speak English, German and Spanish, and a fleet of fully-equipped vehicles that take tourists on safari adventures or treks up Mt. Kilimanjaro. ZARA TOURS also runs ZARA Charity, which plays a vital role in the local community by supporting vulnerable groups such as#orphans, #maasai womengroup, and more.
www.zaratours.com, www.zaratoursadventures.com,www.zaraproperties.com, www.zaracharitytanzania.org Email: zara@zaratours.com
WIM HOF SUCCEEDED TO REACH THE PEAK OF KILIMANJARO WITH A GROUP IN RECORD TIME.
A new world record, the fastest group ascending world’s highest volcano
‘Iceman’ Wim Hof started his climb to the summit (5895 meters) of Kilimanjaro on the 14th of January 2015 with a group of 18 trained people, without any actual climbing experience. He reached the summit of Gilmans point, on the highest mountain in Africa, within 31 hours and 25 minutes. The group walked up to Kibo hut in just shorts and bare torso. The weather had changed at Kibo hut; therefore the group decided to continue with clothing on to reduce the possibility of risk. Doctors think it is impossible, but Wim Hof has proven that altitude sickness can be suppressed in a safe way with the ‘Wim Hof Method’.
Achievements
It is not the first time that Hof has reached the summit of Kilimanjaro. He reached it in 48 hours on 24-01-2014 with a group of 26 participants.
Wim Hof Method
When the human body exceeds a height of 3000 meters, the risk of altitude sickness will dramatically increase. However, the Wim Hof Method allows the contestant to control altitude sickness. One of the guides did not practice the method and even with being fully acclimatized, he got altitude sickness and had to turn back. The method is characterized by the combination of three components: focus/commitment, breathing, and gradual cold exposure. “More energy, more focus, and general well-being of these are a result of a correct application of the method”, says Hof.
Medical supervision
The temperature at the summit of Kilimanjaro can drop to minus 15 degrees Celsius. It’s no surprise that doctors think it is impossible to climb the mountain in shorts and bare torso and even more so within this time span. The biggest danger is altitude sickness due to the lack of oxygen. According to medical scientists, it is impossible to reach the summit at this pace. For this reason, the group was monitored very carefully. Everybody arrived safely.
Wim Hof
Wim Hof was born April 20th, 1959 in the Netherlands. He is known for his notable amount of achievements in extreme cold environments and has 26 world records in his name. He ran a half marathon in his swimming trunks, without shoes, through the Arctic Circle and broke a world record by staying in a container of ice cold water for two hours, without a drop in body temperature.
About ZARA TOURS
ZARA TOURS, founded in 1987, is currently the No. 1 Kilimanjaro outfitter in Tanzania and one of the largest safari operator in the country. Proud to be known as one of the best operators in the region with a reputation for providing an exceptional, unforgettable and safe experience, ZARA TOURS owns and operates two hotels and four tented camps, has 88 safari and climbing expert guides who speak English, German and Spanish, and a fleet of fully-equipped vehicles that take tourists on safari adventures or treks up Mt. Kilimanjaro. ZARA TOURS also runs ZARA Charity, which plays a vital role in the local community by supporting vulnerable groups such as orphans, maasai women group, and more.
www.zaratours.com, www.zaratoursadventures.com,www.zaraproperties.com, www.zaracharitytanzania.org Email: zara@zaratours.com
WIM HOF GROUP TO SCALE THE KILIMANJARO IN SHORTS.
IN a bid to promote and make sure that other world clinical researchers are fully participate in the various studies on ‘Wim Hof method of breathing’ that enables the human body to multiply red blood cells, a group of 18 volunteers under the leadership of the world record holder – Wim Hof ‘Iceman’ has visited the Kilimanjaro Clinical Research institute (KCRI) aiming at ‘exchanging’ scientific data on this method.
The ‘Iceman’ and his group from Holland visited the Centre one day before starting their ‘Unique’ expedition of climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro ( the Roof of Africa) to reach Uhuru Peak (5,895 Metres) in 36 hours while wearing shoes and shorts only.
In an exclusive interview with this paper recently at KCRI where they met the acting director of the leading Clinical Research Center in Tanzania, Ms Rogathe Machange, hof who has 25 Guinness Records explained that they will climb mount Kilimanjaro using the famous route under the guidance of a Moshi – based tour company – Zara Tanzania adventures.
“Early last year I guided a group of 25 Mount Kilimanjaro trekkers who managed to make it to the highest summits of the mountain which are Gilman’s point (5,681 Metres) and Uhuru peak (5,895 metres) within 48 hours…. They were also wearing shoes and shorts only,” he explained.
He said the key challenge is to maintain control of the body under extreme conditions as the freezing temperature at the summit can range between 18 and 26 centigrade and reach the summit at nearly six thousand meters in only 36 hours (instead of the usual six days).“The climbing speed we are using does not give the body time to acclimatise, “ he stated.
Hof noted that on the first day they will climb 3,800 meters and the following day they will scale the mountain up to 4,700 meters and on the last climb all the way to the top of the mountain.
The crew will have to maintain control of mind and body while dealing with the major risks of hypothermia and Acute Mountain sickness (AMS)
Hof has won 25 world records including climbing the world’s highest mountain, Mt Everest in an empty chest, run a marathon beyond the polar Cycle and swimming under the Ice (after making holes) among many others.
“ However, these capabilities are not unique to me and in fact, I have achieved similar encouraging results with many patients with auto-immune diseases of joint such as arthritis and rheumatism as well as nerves and muscles such as ALS and myasthenia gravies,” he specified.
One of the climbers, Leon leijten from Holland said that the project’s goal is to show that anyone can accomplish to such an extraordinary world record.
Given the global interest for this challenge, an international documentary will be produced so that everyone is able to follow closely the crew’s journey on mount Kilimanjaro, he further observed.
Hof has been working with documentary producers from the BBC, Discovery Channel and the National Geographic for Quite some time.
“The latest documentary on his extraordinary performances in icceland will be a great success. And the entire Journey will be filmed for a full-length feature documentary on how to stay In Control on Kilimanjaro,” Leijten pointed out.
Hance Shaban kuyegana from Zara Tanzania Adventures who led the group to KCRI explained that, it is the second time for their company to host Wim Hof and his group where by, last they met it to Uhuru peak of Mt. Kilimanjaro (5,895m ASL) within 48 hours only under the leadership of professional mountain guide from Zara Tours, Joseph Marandu Alias.
About ZARA TOURS
ZARA TOURS, founded in 1987, is currently the No. 1 Kilimanjaro outfitter in Tanzania and one of the largest safari operators in the country. Proud to be known as one of the best operators in the region with a reputation for providing an exceptional, unforgettable and safe experience, ZARA TOURS owns and operates two hotels and four tented camps, has 88 safari and climbing expert guides who speak English, German and Spanish, and a fleet of fully-equipped vehicles that take tourists on safari adventures or treks up Mt. Kilimanjaro. ZARA TOURS also runs ZARA Charity, which plays a vital role in the local community by supporting vulnerable groups such as orphans, maasai women group, and more.
GROUP EMBARKS ON CLIMBING MT KILIMANJARO FOR 36 HOURS
A group of 18 Mount Kilimanjaro trekkers under the leadership of the World’s Record holder – Wim Hof ‘Iceman’ has today started to climb the mountain with the aim of reaching Uhuru Peak (5,895 metres) in 36 hours while wearing shoes and shorts only.
In an exclusive interview with The Guardian over the weekend in Moshi, Hof who has 25 Guinness Records explained that they will climb Mount Kilimanjaro using the famous route under the guidance of a Moshi based tourism company – ZARA Tanzania Adventures.
ZARA TOURS, founded in 1987, is currently the No. 1 Kilimanjaro outfitter in Tanzania and one of the largest safari operators in the country. Proud to be known as one of the best operators in the region with a reputation for providing an exceptional, unforgettable and safe experience, ZARA TOURS owns and operates two hotels and four tented camps, has 88 safari and climbing expert guides who speak English, German and Spanish, and a fleet of fully-equipped vehicles that take tourists on safari adventures or treks up Mt. Kilimanjaro. ZARA TOURS also runs ZARA Charity, which plays a vital role in the local community by supporting vulnerable groups such as orphans, maasai women group, and more.
ZARA TOURS, ANNOUNCES THAT IT WILL BEGIN “THE ASSURED TANZANITE SHOPPING EXPERIENCE”.
Zara Tours, one of the largest and most well respected outfitters in Tanzania has announced that it will begin “The Assured Tanzanite Shopping Experience”.
Tanzanite is an extraordinary gemstone. It is found in only one place on earth, deep in the foothills of Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania. It is a wonderful blue colour surrounded by a hint of purple and it is considered at least one thousand times rarer than a diamond based on its single source and limited supply. Due to its unusual aura and with the backing of New York jewelers, Tiffany & Co., Tanzanite has rapidly become one of the most coveted gemstones in the world.
“Our clients come to Tanzania in expectation our Safaris/Kilimanjaro and journeys on to Zanzibar but also of shopping for and buying Tanzanite for a long term keepsake of their adventure to this wonderful Country” said Zainab Ansell, President of Zara Tours. “After listening to our clients’ needs we understood that there would be a benefit to our clients to shop for Tanzanite while in Moshi, giving them a truly relaxing, enjoyable shopping experience in a quiet peaceful setting with a certified and well respected local dealer of this gemstone”. She went on to say “ Our clients can contact us at any time before or after they arrive and at their convenience we would set up a time to meet with the Gemologist and in a no pressure atmosphere, they can look over a wide variety of Tanzanite stones and with no obligation to purchase”.
We, at Zara Tours, continue to find ways to enhance our clients’ experience while in Tanzania and we feel sure that this shopping experience will be one of the many wonderful memories when they return home. contact Zara tours
Email: zara@zaratours.com
About ZARA TOURS
ZARA TOURS, founded in 1987, is currently the No. 1 Kilimanjaro outfitter in Tanzania and one of the largest safari operators in the country. Proud to be known as one of the best operators in the region with a reputation for providing an exceptional, unforgettable and safe experience, ZARA TOURS owns and operates two hotels and four tented camps, has 88 safari and climbing expert guides who speak English, German and Spanish, and a fleet of fully-equipped vehicles that take tourists on safari adventures or treks up Mt. Kilimanjaro. ZARA TOURS also runs ZARA Charity, which plays a vital role in the local community by supporting vulnerable groups such as orphans, maasai women group, and more.
MOUNT KILIMANJARO PORTERS SOCIETY (MKPS) MISSION, VISION, FUTURE PROGRAMS READY TO FULFIL WITH YOUR HELP:
1. Mount Kilimanjaro cleaning Project
Kilimanjaro Hiking Tour to Clean-up Mountain, Preserve for Future Generations
Tanzania, Africa – Twice a year, ZARA TOURS, a Tanzanian tour company, hosts a volunteer-based climb to help clean up Mount Kilimanjaro. The next opportunity to join this unique effort is April 25, 2015 & 1st – 7th of October 2015 (Machame Route)
This Kilimanjaro hiking tour involves a six day trek along one of the most popular routes on the mountain: Machame. Climbers will spend no more than seven hours a day cleaning up debris as they go. It’s all part of the government’s solid waste management initiative, aimed at preserving the mountain climate and usability for future generations.
Additionally, they have passed a pack-in, pack-out rule where all climbers must take all the supplies and trash they produce with them when they leave. This has minimized ongoing pollution on the mountain, but considering there are three staff members to every climber, this is part of an ongoing, collaborative effort to improve conditions on the mountain passes.
ZARA TOURS offers willing volunteers a 15% discount on the cost of their trip. Climbers also get an added incentive of watching their money help those in need in Tanzania – 20% of the proceeds go to Zara Charity, an organization that helps support orphan welfare, porter services, and women’s rights and education, among other charitable interests.
Collaborations like these will keep Tanzania beautiful and its communities thriving. Come be part of making a tangible difference in the world-at-large. Continue to replace negative impacts with positive ones to achieve sustainability.
ENVIRONMENTAL CONSERVATION PROJECT;
The area which surrounds the source of Springlands covers the total area of 5
Hectors and the place have the scarcity of 2,000 trees and up to now we have covered the total number of 800 trees. With the remaining of 1,200trees, it’s due to this needs that we have decided as the MKPS to collaborate with the local community in the whole process of training on the importance of environmental conservation and planting 1,000 trees which will help to
Compact the nature and the services provided by the place.
EDUCATION & TRAINING PROJECT
This project supports porters who climb Mount Kilimanjaro and Meru due to the fact that most of the porters are low income earners and they have low or no education at all, so the project is aimed at improving the living and working conditions of those porters, especially by providing them the following:
Free education during the low season, such as health education e.g. MALARIA and HIV/AIDS, financial management education, mountain sickness education, environmental conservation education and English.
As of late, all porters have their own bank account and bank card, which will help them to handle their money better; due to this, some of the porters pursue their own businesses, can afford to build their own houses, pay their bills and are taking care of their families in terms of basic needs such as food, shelter, clothes and education material. In terms of environmental education we have started and partly finished several tree planting projects around Moshi and Karatu (Highview Hotel) in order to raise awareness on environmental problems and to give employment to the porters during the low season.
HEALTH CARE PROJECT
Today, most porters at Mount Kilimanjaro (and ALL porters of ZARA!) are members of the Society and can benefit from various resources such as language classes, classes in environmentally sustainable tourism, healthcare and first-aid classes, training in providing customer services, classes to know their rights, legal advise, assistance in micro-finances to improve their family’s living conditions and guarantee a proper education of their children, year-round employment possibilities, and access to an affordable equipment and clothing store.
MICRO –FINANCE PROJECT
Porters are poorly lacking behind. This can be traced back to their burden of a traditional inferior role within their community. However, porters strongly need some simple skills for example in accounting to improve quality of service, their businesses. This claimed improvement shall be achieved by providing the proper with education and very necessary basic skills in order to empower them and help them to rise above their restricted and superior positions in their communities and society in general. They shall be able to grant their own living, to improve their living standards and most of all to be independent. The vocational training center could support the porters in providing them with proper skills. Moreover, health education in general and particularly about the topics of Aids, Money Management and shall be covered by the Training center as well.
About ZARA TOURS
ZARA TOURS, founded in 1987, is currently the No. 1 Kilimanjaro outfitter in Tanzania and one of the largest safari operators in the country. Proud to be known as one of the best operators in the region with a reputation for providing an exceptional, unforgettable and safe experience, ZARA TOURS owns and operates two hotels and four tented camps, has 88 safari and climbing expert guides who speak English, German and Spanish, and a fleet of fully-equipped vehicles that take tourists on safari adventures or treks up Mt. Kilimanjaro. ZARA TOURS also runs ZARACharity, which plays a vital role in the local community by supporting vulnerable groups such as orphans, maasai women group, and more.
ZARA Tanzania Adventures Blog 