Posts tagged ‘climbing Kilimanjaro’

MOUNT KILIMANJARO CHALLENGE WITH ZARA TOURS

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TANZANIA, AFRICA – A group of 45 Embark on Mt Kilimanjaro Challenge with Zara Tours as part of their Research studies.

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The group travelled 54 miles to the top over a period of 6 days, and they all make it to the top with great experience.

Climbers and Tourist from around the world are challenged to take this opportunity for a once in a lifetime experience while experiencing all climatic Zone of the Earth as they reach the Roof of Africa.

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With Zara Tours you can easily make it to the Top with different causes, be it individual fitness, corporate, Fundraising, Charity, Wedding, sports, Research expedition. Etc.. etc….

5I’d love for you to visit our website and choose your Challenge…. and/or Email us: zara@zaratours.com | www.zaratours.com | www.zaraproperties.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.

July 2, 2015 at 9:38 am Leave a comment

ACACIA MINING MOUNT KILIMANJARO CLIMB TO RAISE FUNDS FOR EDUCATION IN TANZANIA.

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A team of 21 acacia staff, friends and family led by chief Executive Officer, Brad Gordon, embarking on the journey of a lifetime to reach uhuru peak; the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, to raise funds for education.

Through it’s CanEducate, a charity that provides educational sponsorships to impoverished and at risk children in developing countries including Tanzania, the company targets to raise $ 200,000.

2The targeted donation has the potential to help communities surrounding Acacia mine sites of Buzwagi, bulyanhulu and North Mara, who fail to attend schools due to income constraints.

Elaborating further, Brad said for less than a month, donations were going on so well hoping to attain the target, and that the company was set to match individual donations by a dollar for dollar.

“I am sure that the final figure is going to have an incredible and positive impact on the lives of children in Tanzania. If you haven’t done so yet, there is still time to give. We need those crucial dollars to get us to our target and to give the team 200,000 reasons to make it to the Top, “ he explained.

3The CanEducate initiative started in 2010 covering 158 students at Bulyanhulu and by the end of 2014 the programme had grown to cover 1,800students across Bulyanhulu, buzwagi and North Mara and has delivered some of the best performers in various school in the National form 4 examinations.

KILIMANJARO 1Mount Kilimanjaro, in Tanzania, is the highest freestanding mountain in the World and Uhuru peak, at 5,895M is the highest point in Africa, Uhuru means freedom and Acacias believes education brings freedom through choice, which is why CanEducate is the perfect recipient of funds raised through the climb.

4About Acacia,
Acacia is the leading gold producer in Tanzania with three producing mines, all located on Northwest Tanzania, together with several exploration projects at various stages of development, including exploration land holdings in the highly prospective greenstone belts in Western Kenya and Western Burkina Faso.

Acacia Mining plc is a UK public company with its headquarters in London, We are listed on the main market of the London stock exchange under the symbol of ACA and have a secondary listing on the Dar es Salaam Stock Exhange in Tanzania.

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. ZARATOURS‬ also runs ZARA Charity, which plays a vital role.

I’d love for you to visit our website and choose your Challenge…. and/or Email us: zara@zaratours.com | www.zaratours.com | www.zaraproperties.com

July 2, 2015 at 6:04 am Leave a comment

OFFICIAL OPENING OF THE NGORONGORO PRE-SCHOOL IN NGORONGORO CONSERVATION AREA – TANZANIA

The founder of the Zara Charity and Zainab Ansel, the director of Zara Tours, are pleased to announce the official opening of the Ngorongoro pre-school in Enduleni Village in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area.

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As a developing country, Tanzania struggles to provide a high quality of infrastructure and education, and the Maasai community has one of the highest illiteracy and lowest school enrolment rates in East Africa. This is primarily due to a lack of schools and their pastoral way of life. Maasai children have been known to walk barefoot for up to 20km to a primary school within parks where there is a danger of an animal attack.

The cost of education remains a large obstacle. Most families live on less than US$0.80 per day and it’s not rare for a family to have around eight children, while some Maasai warriors have up to 60 wives. Research shows that nearly 60% of Maasai children under five years old are physically stunted, which is an indicator of chronic malnutrition. Studies also show that only 5% of elementary school students continue to high school, and that girls are the most disadvantaged as they are expected to stay at home to help their mother take care of the house and family.

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With an average ratio of 72 students to one teacher, four million new primary school teachers were needed in East Africa to reach the goal of offering primary education to all children by 2015. Crowded and dilapidated classrooms, coupled with insufficient teaching resources and instruction time, reflect a far below average standard of educational institutions.

As part of Zara Tours’ sustainable tourism plan, Zara Charity strongly believes that education is the key to a better future that will break the cycle of impoverished communities. That is why we decided to promote education in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area by building a pre-school at which 43 children are currently registered. We focus on building a support system for children by constructing better facilities in which to learn, ensuring access to safe and healthy learning environments, strengthening teaching quality, and providing scholarships.

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Student sponsorship covers the cost of enrolment fees, school materials and uniforms, as well as regular monitoring and support from the Zara Charity. It also provides students with access to medical services.

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One of the most rewarding aspects of sponsorship is getting to know a student personally and seeing the positive effect on their life. We provide various ways for sponsors to form this personal bond, including sending regular updates of the student’s report cards and living situation, and giving the option to send letters directly. Sponsors can also meet the student and their family in Tanzania, and they can combine their trip with an affordable safari package or trek up Mt. Kilimanjaro.

To sponsor a student through pre-school, the cost of one full year is US$850, which works out at just US$2.30 per day. Co-sponsorship and paying in monthly instalments are also options. For more information on our Student Sponsorship Programme, please contact: zara@zaracharitytanzania.org and/or zainab@zaratours.com or Donate to our fund rising page here

 

 

June 23, 2015 at 9:33 am 1 comment

ZARA’S IKOMA WILD CAMP IN SERENGETI RECEIVES 2015 GLOBAL CERTIFICATE OF EXCELLENCE FROM TRIPADVISOR

The Director of Zara Tours & Zara Properties is Proud to announce that the Ikoma wild cam in Serengeti, Tanzania received a certificate of excellence from TripAdvisor recently. This prestigious award is given to businesses worldwide that consistently earn high ratings from TripAdvisor travelers. It places Ikoma wild camp in the top-performing of all tourist businesses around the world on TripAdvisor in 2015.

Ms. Leila Ansell, Zara Properties general manager said, “We are very honored to receive this recognition. It means a lot to us especially because Trip Advisor is one of the most reputable sources of tourism and hotel information for global travelers. This goes to show that Ikoma wild camp has earned its place among the leading wild camps in Serengeti. Our clients have always been at the core of our operations as we thrive to ensure that their experiences in Serengeti are beyond memorable.”

“Winning the Trip Advisor Certificate of Excellence is a true source of pride for the entire team at Zara Properties and we’d like to thank all of our past guests who took the time to complete a review on Trip Advisor,” said by Zainab Ansell, The Director of Zara Tours and Zara Properties. She then adds “There is no greater seal of approval than being recognized by one’s customers. With the Trip Advisor Certificate of Excellence based on customer reviews, the accolade is a remarkable vote of confidence to our business and our continued commitment to excellence.”

Trip Advisor is the world’s largest online travel site that enables travelers to plan and have perfect trips. It offers trusted advice from real travellers about a variety of travel choices, itineraries, accommodations and travel experiences. Trip Advisor branded sites make up the largest travel community in the world, with more than 200 million unique monthly visitors, and over 100 million reviews and opinions. The site operates worldwide.

Opened in 2009 Ikoma wild camp is located in the migration corridor, within the WMA area of Grumeti and Ikorongo Game Reserve, northwest of the famous Serengeti National park. It gives visitors an opportunity to witness the Serengeti migration, while enjoying the stunning view over the surrounding savannah, which is full of wildlife throughout the year.

The Camp is owned and operated by ZARA Tanzania Adventures, a travel agency and tour operator based in Moshi Tanzania.
Mrs. Zainab Ansell, a sustainable tourism advocate from Moshi/Tanzania, founded the business in 1987. They now boast not only a successful tour operation and travel agency but also 6 properties in the Northern circuit including Springland Hotel in Moshi, High View Hotel in Karatu, Serengeti Wild Camp (in Serengeti national park – Seronera area), Serengeti wildebeest camp (in central Serengeti), Ikoma Wild Camp (in Serengeti National park) and Ngorongoro Wild Camp (in Ngorongoro Crater).

ZARA Tanzania Adventures has won a couple of awards in recent years including the 2012 global World Trade Market (WTM) Humanitarian Award in London‬ for practicing sustainable tourism under its foundation Zara Charity, and Mrs. Ansell was awarded the business entrepreneur award under Tanzania Women of Achievement for running a successful Tour Operating Company in 2012; Zara Charity received the Ngorongoro Marathon Award for organizing a successful race to fight Malaria‬ in 2012.

Others include:
2015 – Zara Tours Awarded a certificate of appreciation by Africa travel Association ( ATA) for outstanding contribution in promotion of travel to Africa.
2014 – Zara’s Ikoma Wildcamp awarded Certificate of Excellence by TripAdvisor‬.
2013/2014 – Zara’s Highview Hotel awarded Certificate of Excellence by Trip Advisor.
2013 – Zara Tours winner of Canadian Certificate of Excellence in Commerce.
2011 – Tanzania Tourist Board (TTB) presents Zara with Sustainable Tourism Award.

May 27, 2015 at 11:12 am Leave a comment

MACON LEADS CLIMB OF MOUNT KILIMANJARO TO HELP END POLIO NOW

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TANZANIA, AFRICA – Members and climbers from around the world will climb Mount Kilimanjaro with skilled guide Macon Dunnagan in June and August to raise funds for End Polio Now.

Tanzanian Honorary Tourism Ambassador Macon has climbed to the top of ‪Mount Kilimanjaro 36 times and holds the record of 4 climbs in 28 days. He has often helped organizations and clubs like Rotary’s End Polio Now and Ovarian Cancer Canada plan Kilimanjaro fundraising climbs, lending his expertise to help climbers make a difference.

June 22-27 and August 2-7 of 2015, Macon will be returning to climb Kilimanjaro for the 37th and 38th time. The two groups will travel 54 miles to the top over a period of 6 days, and will raise money for the fight against polio around the world.

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Climbers and Rotarians around the world are challenged to take this opportunity for a once in a lifetime experience while helping to eradicate a globally devastating disease. Funds raised will be given to the World Health Organization for polio immunization, surveillance, and research.

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When he’s not scaling mountains to save lives, Macon is a safari guide for the Serengeti Ngorongoro Crater and presents at travel shows about climbing Kilimanjaro and going on safari. He has acted as guide for many of Zara Tours successful Kilimanjaro climbs.

For more information about this tour please follow the link bellow https://www.zaratours.com/sp…/climb-with-macon-dunnagan.html and/or Email: zara@zaratours.com

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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.

April 23, 2015 at 6:28 am Leave a comment

THE BEAUTY OF AFRICA WITH ZARA TANZANIA ADVENTURES

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Introducing Tanzania: Wildlife, beaches, ruins, Mt Kilimanjaro, friendly people, fascinating cultures – Tanzania has all these and more wrapped up in one adventurous, welcoming package.

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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).

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.comwww.zaratoursadventures.com,www.zaraproperties.comwww.zaracharitytanzania.org Email: zara@zaratours.com

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January 19, 2015 at 12:21 pm 1 comment

WIM HOF GROUP TO SCALE THE KILIMANJARO IN SHORTS.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

January 17, 2015 at 1:54 pm Leave a comment

Climbing Kilimanjaro: Finding the Perfect Route

Jutting upward out of the clouds of Tanzania is Mt. Kilimanjaro, the earth’s largest freestanding mountain. Unlike mountains such as Everest, there is no special climbing gear or mountaineering expertise needed; however, climbing Kilimanjaro is no easy feat. Six regular routes traverse the diverse biosphere of this dormant volcanic mountain. Picking which route to take is the first step in preparing for an adventure of a life time. (more…)

August 15, 2014 at 9:19 am Leave a comment

An Essential Question: When to Climb Kilimanjaro

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When is the best time to climb Kilimanjaro? First time travelers have a lot of questions about what to expect. Whereas, seasoned mountain climbers need some additional information so that they can customize their trek. The good news is whichever category you fall into, this information can be invaluable to you.

If you’re wondering when to climb Kilimanjaro, the answer depends on two things:

1. Your level of experience as a climber

2. Your personal preferences

Knowing a few basic facts about the region can help you set some parameters before you schedule your trip.

Picking a Date: Deciding when to climb Kilimanjaro

Your first step is simple: check the calendar. Due to Tanzania’s proximity to the equator, we have distinct weather patterns that don’t follow the seasons you’re probably used to. Our weather breaks down like this:

  • Dry season
  • Long rainy season
  • Short rainy season

No matter when you visit, Tanzania has a more temperate climate. However, the amount and length of the rainy season can be a safety hazard, especially for inexperienced climbers.

Novice climbers should book a trip in later summer or early fall (August, September, or October). This is the busiest season to hike Kilimanjaro, so if you don’t like crowds, start climbing and training now, before arriving in Tanzania.

All climbers should undergo preparatory training that lasts several months and get them physically and mentally ready for their trek to the Kilimanjaro Summit. That way if you choose to, you can handle a more difficult hike in less favorable weather conditions.

Experienced climbers know that safety risks increase in bad weather. Conditions like snow, extreme cold, mudslides, and rain translate to poor accessibility as well as visibility on the mountain paths. Porters can help make your Kilimanjaro hike a successful one, but it’s the combination of their knowledge and your track record that will help you reach the summit safely.

Peak Dates: Learning the Value of Planning Ahead

Typically, only the most experienced climbers make the trek during the rainy seasons. The first one occurs in November and December, while the second rainy season occurs in the spring. Be sure that your schedule allows for some flexibility.

Certain features of the mountain and community events will draw a crowd, no matter what time of year it is. These include:

  • A trek to witness the summit icecaps
  • Hiking Kilimanjaro by the light of the full moon
  • Charity events sponsored by the local community
  • The type of trek you choose

Dates for these specific activities schedule-out at least two years in advance. Climbs are usually 5 to 9 days long.

Due to the effects of climate change, if you are determined to see the summit icecaps, go as soon as possible; don’t put it off. It has been predicted that the icecaps will disappear by 2050.

Contact Zara Tours for complete details and additional trip planning,

Where’s the Proof? The Picture of a Quality Trekking Company

Trekking Kilimanjaro is a trip that takes several months to plan and prepare for—f a truth that may seem obvious. Travelers should expect to:

  • Get appropriate vaccinations
  • Sort out their travel documentation
  • Select desired tour
  • Follow a suggested packing list
  • Have a skill-based route in mind

These are all good steps, but do you know what’s missing from this list? Choosing your Kilimanjaro trekking companies.

Rating the Importance of the Company you Keep

Tourists who come to Tanzania for the first time are entering an environment they’re not familiar with. Many tour groups fail to realize just how many options there are for Kilimanjaro trekking companies.

Realistically, there are hundreds of companies and independent climbers who will claim to be licensed operators. The danger is they may not be telling you the full truth. At Zara Tours, we believe in clear and honest communication with tourist groups, staff, and porters. This policy has made our company an industry leader in tourism for over 20 years.

Here’s what you need to know:

Independent organizations like the Mount Kilimanjaro Porter Society (MKPS) focus on improving the working life and safety of the porters who trek Kilimanjaro routes, but not every tour company is reputable or trustworthy.

Some guides are left to make their climbs without pay and adequate personal supplies, and they lack the proper clothing and climbing attire. They rely on gifts and tips from various climbing groups to make a living from day to day.

As you may imagine, it’s not a pretty or safe picture for anyone involved. The best way to safeguard yourself and your guides from harm is to choose Kilimanjaro trekking companies that comply with Guidelines for Proper Porter Treatment.

Fair and Equitable Treatment—Where’s the Proof?

One of the frequently asked questions our company gets from prospective tourists is, “Why do you include banking and payroll proof on your corporate website?”

The MKPS was established in 2004 to ensure the fair and reputable treatment of Kilimanjaro trekking companies. The goal is to have every porter that works for Zara Tours receive training, all necessary supplies, and a fair wage for the work they do.

In addition, the MKPS gives each porter their own bank account and helps them learn money management skills. By changing the way these skilled, competent, and valuable workers support themselves, we continue to be a reforming element in the Tanzanian tour industry as a whole. The banking information you’ll see on the website is our show of credibility as a tour company.

When it comes to trekking the mountain itself, you’ll want Kilimanjaro trekking companies that know the best routes to the summit and can match those routes to the skill of the climber.

There are six routes to choose from. The choice of route depends on

  • Experience level
  • Weather conditions
  • Size of the group
  • Goal of the climb
  • Safety and price

Zara Tours porters create a signature, safe, and one-of-a-kind experience for each individual climber.

What Defines the ‘Best” Tours in Tanzania?

People use the word “best” a lot. It is a mark of quality, signifying something special; like gaining a wealth of knowledge or making a difference in the world around you. These same associations can be used when talking about the best tours in Tanzania.

In fact, at Zara Tours, we believe that all of these elements apply to our trips, even if each traveler comes on safari with a specific motivation in mind.

The Tourist’s Perspective of going on Tours in Tanzania

Going on the best tours in Tanzania may start out as a collective goal, but it is the serious traveler who achieves that goal. When they get here, they not only see the beauty of Africa firsthand, they meet like-minded people from all walks of life. It is this combination of shared experience that shapes the kind of trip they will have. There are packages available for every interest and age group. Here are some common ideas:

  • Couples on their honeymoon usually focus on luxury-level tours, unless they both like camping out under the stars. This makes for a more intimate shared experience between two people.
  • Tourists with families or an educational interest will try to experience several things in the duration of a single trip. This could include a shorter tour, a day trip to Kilimanjaro, crater camping, and a Maasai adventure.
  • Tourists with a vested interest in tours in Tanzania can come learn all about sustainable tourism. We offer packages that include a visit to various charity sites that are supported by tourist dollars. This allows people who are interested to see their travel dollars at work.
  • There are also individuals who come to Tanzania with a specific goal in mind. That goal could be to privately experience the best tour in Africa or to participate in a local charity event, like the malaria awareness marathon.

Picking the Best Travel Timetable

Some of these goals can be met on any day at any time; others have to be planned far in advance.

Luxury accommodations need to be booked far in advance. Certain tour sites are inaccessible during monsoon season and direct participation in charity events will require advance notice, registration, and planning ahead. Once you’ve picked a time frame and trip package that meets your goals, spend time on some research about the region you will be visiting.

The best tours in Africa actually start long before you are trekking through the protected plains of the country. They start with why you decided to take this trip in the first place. The Zara Tours website has helpful information about Tanzania as well as packing tips and sneak peeks to help you prepare for your trip. Use these resources and more to learn more about the country you’ll be visiting.

Zara Tours is a dedicated provider of trips that make a difference. Be a part of our next tour and see your goals realized.

July 23, 2014 at 10:58 am Leave a comment

FAQ’s for First-Time Climbers from a Kilimanjaro Climbing Company

The selection of a Kilimanjaro climbing company is one of the biggest decisions you will make when planning a trekking trip in Tanzania. Several of these companies do not treat their porters well and work within a dishonorable barter system. Zara Tours is a marked exception, using a portion of all proceeds to support porter services.

If you are unsure of a climbing company’s rating, be sure to check with the Mount Kilimanjaro Porters Society (MKPS) to ensure the well-being of everyone involved in the trek. This is only one example of the pre-trip resources available to you.

Climbers often have preparatory questions before they actually take this once-in-a-lifetime trip. We will try to answer some of those questions for you now. (more…)

April 25, 2014 at 6:17 pm Leave a comment

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