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Empowering Tanzania’s Tourism: How Women Like Savannah Tours’ Guides Are Leading the Charge 11 Mar 2025, 8:13 am
Tanzania’s tourism industry thrives on its iconic wildlife, vibrant cultures, and awe-inspiring landscapes. But behind every unforgettable safari is an often-unsung force: women. At Savannah Tours, a leading Tanzania destination management company, women are not just participants in tourism—they’re innovators, educators, and guardians of Africa’s natural heritage. In this blog, we explore how Tanzanian women, including Savannah Tours’ trailblazing female guides, are redefining the sector while driving sustainability and inclusivity.
1.The Growing Influence of Women in Tanzanian Tourism
Globally, women make up 54% of the tourism workforce (UNWTO), yet their representation in leadership roles remains limited. In Tanzania, however, progress is accelerating. According to the Tanzanian Ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism, women now constitute 35-40% of the sector’s formal workforce, up from 25% a decade ago.
At Savannah Tours, that figure rises to 45%, with women leading roles as guides, operations managers, and sustainability coordinators.
Why Women Matter in Safari Tourism
Cultural storytelling: Female guides, like Savannah Tours’ Mary Mallya, blend wildlife expertise with insights into Maasai traditions, creating richer guest experiences.
Conservation advocacy: Women are often at the forefront of community-led initiatives, such as anti-poaching programs and sustainable craft cooperatives.
Economic impact: Tourism employs over 1.3 million Tanzanians (World Travel & Tourism Council), and empowering women directly uplifts families and communities.
2. Spotlight on Savannah Tours’ Female Guides: Breaking Barriers
Savannah Tours’ commitment to gender equality shines through its Female Guide Initiative. Today, over 30% of their safari guides are women—double the industry average. These guides undergo rigorous training in wildlife biology, first aid, and cultural heritage, ensuring guests receive world-class expertise with a unique perspective.
Meet the Guides Redefining Safaris
Mary Mallya, a former wildlife researcher, decodes animal behavior in the Serengeti. Her tours highlight conservation challenges, like human-wildlife conflict.
Irene Kimaro, one of Tanzania’s few female guides, navigates the Ngorongoro Crater with unmatched precision. Her journey from Arusha to guide stardom has inspired local girls to pursue nontraditional careers.
By the Numbers
87% of Savannah Tours’ guests rate female-guided tours as more immersive due to their attention to detail and cultural storytelling. 62% increase in bookings for women-led tours since 2020, reflecting global demand for inclusive travel.
3. Women Driving Sustainability & Community Development
Tanzania’s tourism sector contributes 17.2% of GDP (WTTC), but its future hinges on sustainability. Women are pivotal to this mission:
Cultural Preservation
From the shores of Zanzibar to Maasai villages, women safeguard traditions through:
Handcrafted souvenirs: 80% of Savannah Tours’ artisan partners are women. Community tourism: Female hosts in Karatu and Mto wa Mbu share cooking, dance, and farming practices, generating income for 200+ households while 68% of travelers prefer brands that promote gender equality (Booking.com).
4. Challenges & How Savannah Tours is Paving the Way
Despite progress, barriers like limited access to education and cultural biases persist. Only 12% of Tanzanian women hold tertiary degrees (World Bank), and guiding remains male-dominated.
5. How You Can Support Women in Tanzanian Tourism
Travelers play a crucial role in advancing gender equality:
- Request a female guide when booking your Savannah Tours safari.
- Choose community-based tours that uplift women artisans and entrepreneurs.
- Share stories using #WomenOfSavannah to amplify their impact.
Conclusion: Explore Tanzania, Empower Women
At Savannah Tours, we believe the future of tourism is female. By championing women’s voices, skills, and leadership, we’re not only creating extraordinary journeys but also fostering a more equitable and sustainable industry.
The post Empowering Tanzania’s Tourism: How Women Like Savannah Tours’ Guides Are Leading the Charge appeared first on Savannah Tours.
How to Plan Your Travel When Visiting Tanzania: Tips from Savannah Tours 3 Feb 2025, 8:23 am
Tanzania, a jewel in East Africa, is known for its breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife, and rich cultural heritage. Whether you’re dreaming of witnessing the Great Migration on the Serengeti Plains, exploring the vibrant streets of Zanzibar, or climbing the majestic Mount Kilimanjaro, planning your trip to Tanzania requires careful consideration. Here are some essential tips to help you make the most of your adventure, brought to you by Savannah Tours.
1. Choose the Right Time to Visit
The best time to visit Tanzania largely depends on your travel goals. For wildlife enthusiasts, the dry season from June to October is ideal, as animals gather around water sources, making them easier to spot. If you’re interested in the Great Migration, plan your visit between July and September when the wildebeest cross the Mara River.
For a more cultural experience, you might prefer the shoulder seasons in April to May or November to early December, when the landscapes are lush and green, and the tourist crowds are thinner.
2. Create a Realistic Itinerary
Tanzania offers a wide range of experiences, so it’s important to create an itinerary that balances your interests. Popular destinations include:
- Serengeti National Park: Famous for its diverse wildlife and the Great Migration.
- Ngorongoro Crater: A UNESCO World Heritage site home to a unique ecosystem.
- Zanzibar: Known for its beautiful beaches and rich history.
- Lake Manyara National Park: Renowned for its tree-climbing lions and diverse birdlife.
Consider how much time you have and the distances between these locations. A well-planned itinerary will allow you to enjoy each destination without feeling rushed.
3. Book with Reputable Tour Operators
When planning a safari or guided tours, consider working with reputable operators like Savannah Tours. Look for operators that prioritize sustainability and responsible tourism. Check reviews, ask for recommendations, and ensure they have knowledgeable guides who can enhance your experience with their insights into the wildlife and culture.
4. Pack Wisely
Packing for Tanzania requires a mix of practicality and comfort:
- Clothing: Lightweight, breathable fabrics are best for the warm days. Neutral colors like khaki, beige, and green are ideal for safaris to blend in with the environment. A warm jacket is recommended for cooler evenings, especially in high-altitude areas like Kilimanjaro.
- Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes are essential for safaris and hikes. Flip-flops or sandals are great for beach days in Zanzibar.
- Essentials: Don’t forget sunscreen, insect repellent, a reusable water bottle, and a good camera for capturing the incredible wildlife and landscapes.
5. Understand Local Culture and Etiquette
Tanzania is home to diverse cultures, and being respectful of local customs is crucial. Here are a few tips:
- Greetings: A simple “Jambo” (hello) goes a long way. Tanzanians appreciate friendliness and warmth.
- Dress Modestly: Especially in rural areas and Zanzibar, dress conservatively to respect local traditions.
- Ask Before Taking Photos: Always ask permission before photographing people, particularly in local villages.
6. Prepare for Health and Safety
Before traveling to Tanzania, consult with your doctor about vaccinations and medications. Common recommendations include:
- Yellow Fever Vaccine: Required for entry if traveling from a country with risk.
- Malaria Prophylaxis: Essential for certain regions, especially during the wet season.
- Travel Insurance: Ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and trip cancellations.
7. Currency and Budgeting
The local currency is the Tanzanian Shilling (TZS). It’s advisable to have some cash on hand, especially for small purchases in local markets. Credit cards are accepted in larger establishments, but may not work in remote areas.
Budgeting will depend on your travel style. Luxury safaris can be expensive, while budget options like camping safaris can be more affordable. Plan for additional costs such as park fees, tips for guides, and souvenirs.
8. Stay Connected
While Tanzania is beautiful, connectivity can vary. Ensure you have a local SIM card for your phone upon arrival. This will help you navigate, stay in touch with your tour operators, and access information on the go.
9. Be Open to Adventure
Lastly, be open to new experiences! Tanzania is full of surprises, and sometimes the best memories come from unplanned adventures. Whether it’s a spontaneous visit to a local market or a chance encounter with wildlife, embrace the journey.
Conclusion
Planning your travel to Tanzania can be an exciting adventure in itself. By following these tips from Savannah Tours, you’ll be well-prepared to explore the stunning landscapes and rich cultures of this incredible country. From the savannahs of Serengeti to the pristine beaches of Zanzibar, Tanzania promises an unforgettable experience. Safe travels!
The post How to Plan Your Travel When Visiting Tanzania: Tips from Savannah Tours appeared first on Savannah Tours.
Savannah Tours attends the Magical Kenya Expo 2024 3 Feb 2025, 8:02 am
From October 2nd to 4th, 2024, Uhuru Gardens in Nairobi transformed into the heart of African tourism as the Magical Kenya Tourism Travel Expo hosted key players from across the globe. This prestigious event provided a platform for tourism businesses to exhibit their offerings, exchange ideas, and establish new partnerships. Among the esteemed exhibitors was Savannah Tours a leading Tanzanian tour operator, which co-shared a booth with Gallery Tours from Zanzibar. Together, these two top-tier brands showcased the best of what Tanzanian tourism has to offer.
Savannah Tours: A Premium Tanzanian Safari Experience
As a premier provider of safari and adventure experiences, Savannah Tours has built a strong reputation for curating bespoke travel packages that explore Tanzania’s rich landscapes and abundant wildlife. From the iconic Serengeti National Park, renowned for the Great Migration, to the breathtaking Ngorongoro Crater and the pristine beaches of Zanzibar, Savannah Tours offers something for every traveler. Their participation in the Magical Kenya Travel Expo 2024 was a key opportunity to solidify their presence in the global tourism market.
Sharing the booth with Gallery Tours allowed Savannah Tours to provide visitors with a comprehensive glimpse of Tanzanian tourism.
Visitors to the booth explored options from Dar es Salaam city tours, safari packages in the Southern Circuit, and idyllic beach vacations in Zanzibar. Irene Kimaro, Operations Manager of Savannah Tours, and David Alex, General Manager of Gallery Tours, represented both companies, engaging with attendees from across the globe.
Strategic Networking for Growth
Savannah Tours’ attendance at the Magical Kenya Travel Expo went beyond mere exhibition. It was a strategic move to connect with key industry players and enhance its business opportunities. Cliff D’Souza, Managing Director of Savannah Tours, met with influential figures from the tourism industry, forging relationships that are expected to drive more tourists to Tanzania. The expo allowed Savannah Tours to establish valuable partnerships, furthering its goal of increasing safari tourism and promoting Tanzania as a leading travel destination.
Overview of Magical Kenya Travel Expo 2024
The Magical Kenya Tourism Travel Expo is one of Africa’s largest tourism events, attracting exhibitors, buyers, travel agents, and stakeholders from all over the world. It serves as a melting pot for tourism businesses to network, negotiate, and collaborate on new opportunities. Although the expo focuses on positioning Kenya and East Africa as key tourism hubs, it also provides a platform for neighboring countries like Tanzania to showcase their unique offerings.
Savannah Tours’ participation in the expo provided an excellent opportunity to engage with tour operators, travel agents, and potential clients, offering them insight into their premium safari experiences, including guided tours, luxury lodges, and adventure-filled itineraries. The event also gave Savannah Tours a chance to observe new trends in tourism, allowing the company to stay ahead of market demands and continue evolving as a top player in the Tanzanian safari industry.
The cuisine at the Lodge was truly magnificent – delicious, healthy, and creative – paralleling that of fine restaurants. There is also a wide range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks including the delicious ‘sleep well’ shot offered after dinner.
Why Savannah Tours Exhibits at the Magical Kenya Expo
For the second consecutive year, Savannah Tours exhibited at the Magical Kenya Travel Expo. This continued participation underscores the company’s commitment to maintaining its position as a leader in the East African safari market. The expo provided Savannah Tours with increased visibility, reinforcing its brand presence and opening doors to new business opportunities.
Additionally, the event allowed Savannah Tours to engage directly with potential clients, showcasing its value proposition of personalized, high-quality safari experiences. From budget travel packages to luxury vacation packages, Savannah Tours has something for everyone. The company’s carefully curated offerings are tailored to meet the needs of a wide range of travelers, from those seeking a Tanzania safari to visitors interested in Dar es Salaam city tours or exploring the Southern Circuit’s national parks, including Selous Game Reserve, Ruaha National Park, and Mikumi National Park.
Tanzania: A Leading Tourism Destination
Tanzania remains one of the premier tourism destinations in East and Central Africa, attracting thousands of visitors each year. Its diverse landscapes and rich biodiversity make it an unparalleled destination for safari enthusiasts, beach lovers, and adventure seekers. Tanzania is home to world-renowned attractions like the Serengeti, Mount Kilimanjaro, and the Ngorongoro Crater, but its Southern Circuit also offers extraordinary wildlife experiences away from the crowds. Ruaha National Park, Selous Game Reserve, and Mikumi National Park provide the perfect setting for intimate and immersive safaris.
With tourism contributing significantly to the country’s GDP, Tanzania has made substantial investments in infrastructure, ensuring that visitors have access to world-class accommodations, transportation, and services. Savannah Tours, with its deep understanding of the local landscape, plays a vital role in promoting sustainable tourism, while offering a broad array of packages, including flights, accommodation in top-rated hotels, and tours led by experienced guides.
The Importance of Safari Tourism in Tanzania
Safari tourism is a cornerstone of Tanzania’s tourism industry. The Great Migration, one of the world’s most spectacular wildlife events, draws thousands of visitors annually to witness the dramatic movement of wildebeest across the Serengeti.
Savannah Tours offers well-organized, guided game drives, ensuring that visitors get the most out of their safari experience. Whether travelers are seeking luxurious lodges or budget travel options, Savannah Tours provides a seamless and unforgettable journey through Tanzania’s natural wonders.
Why Savannah Tours Should Be Your Preferred Tour Provider
As the Magical Kenya Travel Expo 2024 concluded, Savannah Tours stands ready to take visitors on a once-in-a-lifetime journey through the heart of Tanzania. Whether you’re looking to explore the wilds of the Serengeti or relax on the beaches of Zanzibar, Savannah Tours has the perfect package for you.
Book your dream Tanzania safari with Savannah Tours today and experience the beauty of East Africa. Don’t miss out on the chance to explore one of the world’s top tourist destinations with expert guides and personalized service. Visit our website www.savannahtz.co.tz or contact us directly for exclusive offers on hotels, flights, and tailored vacation packages.
The post Savannah Tours attends the Magical Kenya Expo 2024 appeared first on Savannah Tours.
A Chem Chem experience 3 Feb 2025, 7:36 am
In July, our Managing Director Cliff D’Souza visited Chem Chem close to Tarangire National Park to learn about their three beautiful and tranquil properties and unique safari experiences which Savannah Tours is now delighted to offer to its guests as part of their safari journey in Tanzania.
About Chem Chem
Chem Chem was created by Nicolas and Fabia, two Europeans with a mutual passion for the African bush and protecting wildlife. They worked together with the Tanzanian National Parks Authority to create the Chem Chem – Burunge Wildlife Management Area, a former migratory corridor between the Tarangire and Lake Manyara National Parks, which had been destroyed by illegal logging and poaching. In 2008, they founded the Chem Chem Association to restore the vegetation and wildlife of this area and recreate the migratory corridor to allow animals to move freely along the ancient routes. They then created three small and exceptionally beautiful safari lodges and camps to offer visitors access to this area and generate income to protect the land and its wildlife and support local Maasai and Barabaig communities to live sustainably. All three properties are managed and run by Tanzanian staff, most of whom come from the local area.
Arrival at Chem Chem Lodge
I spent two nights at Chem Chem Lodge, the first property Nicolas and Fabia created, close to Lake Manyara. The Lodge has eight tented suites – including one family suite – each secluded in the trees and with a beautiful view across the savannah towards Lake Manyara.
My guest and I were warmly greeted at the entrance by Elisabeth, the camp manager, our guide Majuto, and our hostess Holiness. We were then given a brief tour of the camp before being shown to our tent, which we reached by elevated wooden walkways through the bush.
The description ‘tented suite’ is very appropriate for the spacious accommodation with its beautiful interior design, complete with outdoor shower and deck overlooking the savannah. Every need has been carefully anticipated so guests can stay in tranquil comfort surrounded by nature. We immediately felt nurtured and spent a couple of hours relaxing on the deck simply watching giraffe, impala and wildebeest wander by.
Game drives at Chem Chem
We went on our first game drive the first evening and it was a fantastic experience. Chem Chem – Burunge Wildlife Management Area is essentially a private concession which means that only vehicles from Chem Chem properties are in allowed in this large area. We only saw two other vehicles during our three-hour game drive and spent most of the time driving alone through this wonderful wilderness. There is plenty of game and, unlike in the national parks, the vehicles can go off-road, which gives opportunity to get really close to the animals. After spending time watching the grazing herds or wildebeest, zebra, impala and Thomson’s gazelle and observing a herd of elephants drinking at a waterhole, we spent time parked in the middle of a pride of lions, stretched out lazily after an earlier kill. My guest was really interested in the birdlife and our guide Majuto showed incredible knowledge about dozens of birds we spotted.
It was as we were driving for our sundowner, that our guide Majuto received news that some cheetahs had killed a zebra. With the flexibility to stay in the park beyond dusk, he drove us back to the site of the kill where we witnessed a truly incredible sight. With only two other Chem Chem vehicles, we all watched quietly as three cheetahs ate their kill, one cheetah stood on watch, and the pride of lions we had seen earlier started to move in on the cheetahs. We then witnessed a dramatic standoff followed by the male cheetah trying to intimidate the lions, but then being chased by a make lion across the savannah. The lions then chased the cheetahs off their territory one by one. However, the lions had not scented the kill and, as it grew dark, we followed the lions through the bush and made our way back to the lodge, wondering if the cheetahs might try to return to their kill later. A rare and unique experience!
Spending time at Chem Chem Lodge
Chem Chem Lodge is a wonderful place to relax surrounded by nature. In addition to the secluded, beautiful, tented lodges, there are multiple spaces to relax pretty much in complete privacy, given there are a limited number of guests. During the day, you can relax on the comfortable loungers at the lovely pool or in one of the multiple lounges, the library or other seating areas in the shade or sun.
At mealtimes, and after a drink by the firepit before dinner, our hostess Holiness showed us to one of several private dining spaces overlooking the Savannah.
The cuisine at the Lodge was truly magnificent – delicious, healthy, and creative – paralleling that of fine restaurants. There is also a wide range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks including the delicious ‘sleep well’ shot offered after dinner.
Chem Chem’s signature experiences
Each guest at a Chem Chem property is treated to a range of inclusive signature experiences. Depending on the length of your stay, this can include a bush breakfast, sundowner, and/or dinner, a walking safari, a sunset hill climb, and a visit to one of the local villages to learn about the way of life of the Maasai and Barabaig communities. You can also supplement these with additional experiences including a hot air balloon safari and a trip to Lake Manyara National Park.
Children are also thoughtfully catered for with opportunities to learn bush skills from Maasai, cook Swahili food and engage in safari-themed arts and crafts. Our favourite was the silent bush walk with our guide Majuto and a Maasai named Poshi. We walked slowly and mindfully through the savannah just observing and listening to the wildlife around us – an incredible immersive experience, topped off by a bush breakfast where breakfast was cooked for us under the trees.
Little Chem Chem and Forest Chem Chem
We also visited Chem Chem’s other two properties to explore what they offer to guests. Whilst they offer the same attentive and personalized ‘slow safari’ experience to their guests, each property is unique. Little Chem Chem has 6 luxury tents set amongst ancient baobab trees overlooking Lake Burungi. It has an atmosphere of a traditional bush camp, but with subtle luxury and impeccable service. We were served a wonderful lunch under a huge umbrella on the edge of the savannah. Forest Chem Chem is a completely private property in the midst of the forest. It was created for exclusive use of one family or group of friends. It has four vintage style safari tents, including one family tent and a wonderful staff there to cater to your specific needs and create a tailored safari experience for your group.
My personal recommendations
We also visited Chem Chem’s other two properties to explore what they offer to guests. Whilst they offer the same attentive and personalized ‘slow safari’ experience to their guests, each property is unique. Little Chem Chem has 6 luxury tents set amongst ancient baobab trees overlooking Lake Burungi.
It has an atmosphere of a traditional bush camp, but with subtle luxury and impeccable service. We were served a wonderful lunch under a huge umbrella on the edge of the savannah. Forest Chem Chem is a completely private property in the midst of the forest. It was created for exclusive use of one family or group of friends. It has four vintage style safari tents, including one family tent and a wonderful staff there to cater to your specific needs and create a tailored safari experience for your group.
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