Tag: Tanzania

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A Taste of East Africa: Experience the Culture and Cuisine

on February 21, 2023

No matter where your travels take you, it will be nearly impossible to match the rich culture and cuisine that is found in eastern Africa. For those who have traveled this route, they would agree that this side of Africa has electric energy made even more apparent by its perfectly-posed wildlife and fearless safari leaders.

Needless to say, it is important to get out of your comfort zone on your travels. Eastern Africa does this extremely well, introducing its culture to curious travelers wanting a peek at this side of the continent.

What Is Waiting for You in Terms of Culture

Peruse Local Markets and Historical Sites

While eastern Africa has a wide stretch of open land ideal for wildlife to thrive, it also has been habituated by a lively people group whose culture is evident for all. Kigali City, the capital of Rwanda, is an excellent example of this, with its modern feel connecting current residents to the city’s past. One event, in particular, that is honored here is Rwanda’s genocide, which visitors can learn about in more depth at the Kigali Genocide Memorial.

Diving deeper into the culture, travelers can stroll through the local craft market to purchase locally-created items ranging from baskets to dolls to bracelets. Support the local economy and learn about the story behind these souvenirs to make your visit even more meaningful.

Peer Into the Lives of Gorillas

Eastern Africa’s culture is very closely tied to its wildlife. You’ll have the chance to learn about this connection more intimately as you embark on a gorilla trek with experienced rangers. Having curated this activity to be as sustainable as possible, visitors are led on a hike lasting up to 7 hours, trekking through the foothills of the Virunga Volcanoes.

Many would argue that there is nothing more surreal than camouflaging with your surroundings while searching for a secluded gorilla family. After spotting a family of these great apes, you’ll be allotted an hour to watch them do life, which largely consists of eating and playing.

Say Yes to Monkey Business

Home to the distinguishable and, quite frankly, adorable Golden monkeys is none other than the highland forests of Volcanoes National Park. While you’ll experience a variety of wildlife on this trek, your main purpose is to catch a glimpse of these playful primates. Given their current endangered status, this remarkable experience will be one that you will treasure for a lifetime.

Experience Additional Wildlife on Game Drives

What brings most travelers to Africa is its plethora of safaris promising front-row views to hair-raising wildlife. If this was your motivation to travel to Africa, you’re in luck. Eastern Africa is home to a plethora of reserves and national parks that strive to protect these species while also providing a safe opportunity for foreigners to experience them up close and personal.

A few locations you’ll spot this wildlife in during your game drives include Masai Mara National Reserve, Serengeti National Park, Amboseli National Park, and more. Keep your eyes peeled for rhinos, lions, elephants, buffalo, and leopards.

Before you leave, conquer your fear of heights by signing up for a sunrise balloon safari. Elevated above the vast landscape, you’ll be able to spot these majestic creatures from a new angle. If this isn’t convincing enough, you’ll also receive a champagne breakfast upon your safe landing.

What Is Waiting for You in Terms of Cuisine

Sample Local Coffee

Coffee has deep routes in eastern Africa, specifically in Ethiopia. Of course, this phenomenon spread worldwide, but it is still vastly celebrated in its more natural form in Africa. Kigali City in Rwanda has capitalized on this worldwide beverage, serving a sweet and savory flavor in its many coffee shops. During your travels, indulge in coffee the Rwandan way in one of its many aesthetic shops.

Take a Local Cooking Class

When in eastern Africa, you’ll likely feel inspired by the diverse cuisine. Form a deeper connection to the local culture by enrolling in a cooking class to discover how they prepare some of their most renowned dishes. You’ll gain a broad overview of the larger cuisine offerings, creating a bucket list of recipes to indulge in once more before your travels come to an end.

Indulge in These Favorite Dishes

Although your cooking class will provide a great introduction to the region’s famed dishes, there is never any harm in coming prepared with a list of recipes that you can’t leave without trying. One dish that reigns supreme in Kenya is matoke, a mixture of fried bananas, onions, tomatoes, and sauce.

In Tanzania, don’t miss out on a local favorite: mandazi. Bearing the appearance of a beignet sans powdered sugar, mandazi is fried bread that makes for a sugary treat. Some other popular foods to try throughout your trip include ugali, tibs, and mshikaki. Eastern Africa is an influential destination with a mixture of culture, cuisine, and wildlife that never ceases to inspire travelers. The aforementioned activities can all be experienced through our 15-day tour through Kenya, Tanzania, and Rwanda, but there are countless other trips led through eastern Africa that share similarities with this itinerary, all of which are exuding with culture.

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The Ultimate Kenya and Tanzania Itinerary – Top Places to Visit

on February 14, 2022

Africa contains a beautiful conglomerate of culturally-rich countries and beguiling wildlife worth experiencing in one’s lifetime. Of all the countries to visit in Eastern Africa, Kenya and Tanzania stand out as the crowd favorite, given their abundance of fauna and thrilling scenery. Forming a game plan can be a tad bit overwhelming when visiting this region, which is why we’ve done the work of listing the top places to visit throughout these countries, all of which are included in our ten-day classic tour for this coveted vacation destination.

Lake Elmentaita, Soysambu Conservancy

At the famed Lake Elmentaita, visitors will be stunned by the flocks of bird species gathering by the pink-tinted waters. Some might deduce that this hue is shadowed by the groups of flamingos gathering in its space, but the water actually gets its color from seasonal changes and continual algae growth. This scenic phenomenon pairs well with a game drive through the Soysambu Conservancy, home to 15,000 wild animals and green plains stretching for thousands of acres.

Maasai Mara National Reserve

A large aspect of both Kenya and Tanzania’s magic is the offering of renowned nature reserves. Maasai Mara National Reserve exists as a haven for a plethora of unbothered wildlife. Peer over your shoulder to find prides of lions, female-led elephant herds, hearty rhinos, and animals native to the region.

Up close and personal is often the preferred viewing point for these vast savannahs. To gain a new perspective, however, our tour offers an optional hot air balloon safari. This incomparable experience provides an aerial view of the wildlife as they embark on their daily morning escapades through the vast grasslands.

Karen Blixen Museum & Giraffe Centre

Where the Karen Blixen Museum is now based, there once stood a farm owned by a Danish author by the name of Karen and her husband. Gaining fame upon the release of Karen’s autobiography and the eventual film titled Out of Africa, the farmhouse still garners international attention and honors its historical significance, as it was eventually donated by the Danish government to the Kenyan government as an independence gift. History buffs delight in touring the rooms and grounds, which still bear witness to the property’s past with original equipment from Karen’s coffee farm.

Located in close proximity to the museum is none other than the Giraffe Centre, an established environmental conservation home to the endangered Rothschild’s Giraffe. This sanctuary has played a large role in the regrowth of this subspecies, providing grounds for breeding and public education. Visitors have the opportunity to feed these long-necked animals from the palm of their hands while learning about the organization’s ongoing conservation efforts.

Tarangire National Park

Across the border, resting in Tanzania, is the Tarangire National Park, a playground for wild animals and home to august elephant herds. Exploring this countryside during the dry season guarantees a diverse wildlife landscape of elephants, giraffes, zebras, lions, cheetahs, and buffalo, as the reserve’s Tarangire River provides a permanent water source for its dependent fauna. As you journey along on your safari, feast your eyes on the massive Baobab trees native to mainland Africa. These skyscrapers of the savanna tower over the terrain as the backdrop to a remarkable safari.

Lake Manyara National Park

Continuing on in your pursuit of awe-inspiring views and wildlife, you’ll want to visit Tanzania’s Lake Manyara National Park. What serves as the quarters for tree-climbing lions, the country’s largest elephant population, and countless pink flamingos, the highly-acclaimed national park is a one-stop destination for nature lovers.

Adding to its charm is its chipper birdlife, where enthusiasts can easily spot up to 100 species in a single day. This borderless atrium of sorts is the perfect place to pull out your binoculars and do some diligent birdwatching.

Ngorongoro Conservation Area

An ultimate Kenya and Tanzania itinerary would not be complete without mention of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, the residence of the volcanic Ngorongoro Crater, and highly anticipated animal herds. Give your trip a proper send-off by descending to the floor of the crater to gain an even deeper look into the innumerable species residing in this space. Typical wildlife sightings include the huntsman lions, majestic elephants, striped zebra, and the occasional lucky spotting of the endangered rhino.

To truly dig beneath the surface of both Kenya and Tanzania, one must enlist in the aforementioned activities and soak in the enriching views accessible only by embarking on a trip hitting all these must-stop highlights. Africa is a continent best explored by opening oneself up to new cultural norms and fearlessly plunging into the diverse landscape and wildlife encounters.

Kenya & Tanzania Safari
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Virtual Travel Day 3: Kenya & Tanzania Safari

on June 11, 2020

Virtual Travel Day 3: Kenya & Tanzania Safari

This was my first time on an African Safari and it remains one of the most memorable trips that I have been on. To see these animals in the wild is an experience that’s indescribable. I’d be filming a lion and have to keep reminding myself, ‘This isn’t a zoo- you are filming a real lion in the wild!’ What an absolute thrill!  

And then to film and hang out with the people in the Masaai tribe in Kenya was such a cool experience. After I interviewed one of the tribe leaders, we sat and talked off-camera for about an hour. We shared stories about our culture and laughed together and it reminded me how much more alike we are than different. These personal connections that I make with people all over the world are what I like most about my work.  

The people in Kenya and Tanzania are some of the kindest you will ever meet. If you are the type of person who doesn’t smile much, that will change when you go to Africa. Because their smiles are infectious and they will fill your heart with joy.

– Larry

Post-script Safari Camera Tips: 

  • For most people, an inexpensive point and shoot camera and with a zoom lens will get you great results. Some people get great shots with their phone cameras. 
  • If you have a DSLR and are interested in taking great photos on a Safari, but you don’t have a good telephoto lens- I would recommend RENTING A LENS vs BUYING A LENS. You can rent a lens online for the duration of the trip and save hundreds or thousands of dollars. You can even rent a camera and a lens. For most people, the type of telephoto lens that you’d use on a Safari is not one you would use on your other travels- better to save money so you can travel more.   
  • For camera stabilization on the side of the vehicle, I pack an empty bag (that won’t break or leak). When I get to the destination, I buy inexpensive dry rice or beans to make a bean-bag that I lay on the side of the safari vehicle to stabilize the camera. This is much quicker than a monopod. 
AfricaSmall Group Discoveries

The Great Migration

on August 17, 2019

“The only beginning is the moment of birth” writes East African author Jonathan Scott of one of the world’s greatest natural wonders: the wildebeest migration.

Many people imagine that a migration has a start and an end point. But for 1.5 million white-bearded wildebeest—and their supporting cast of 350,000 Thomson’s gazelle, 200,000 zebra, and 12,000 eland—the endless loop through the Serengeti and the neighboring Masai Mara literally never ends.

Like with every other beast in Africa, their behavior is driven by the search for food and water. This great mass of ungulates chase the cycle of rain from plain to plain, feeding on newly grown grass and quenching their thirst in newly fed streams and rivers. Naturalists say that this constant chase is the only predictable thing about the great migration, its exact route varies year to year, which is often a disappointment for safari-goers who long to witness this phenomenon.

It’s hard to believe that even a gathering of almost 2 million can be hard to come across but it’s all thanks to the massive stage across which the migration unfolds. Its 15,000 square miles, known collectively as the Serengeti Ecosystem, stretches from the Ngorongoro Crater, westward through the Serengeti, and into the Masai Mara in Kenya.

During January and February of every year, 300,000 to 400,000 calves begin their endless journey right out of the womb. Incredibly, the newborn can walk within just two to three minutes after birth. It gets its bearings enough to run with the herd within just five minutes. This birthing period lays out a buffet for predators like lions, cheetahs, leopards, and hyenas. Luckily, the huge numbers work in the wildebeests’ favor. There are far too many calves to go around, so most of them survive.

After birthing, the epic journey continues its endless cycle for the adults, but it’s just beginning for the newborns. Scientists aren’t exactly sure what guides the wildebeests toward the growth of new grass and sources of water. Some believe they react to thunder and lightning in the distance. Over millennia, they have learned that where there’s thunder, there’s rain and food. Others go deeper than this, pointing instead to an instinct etched into their DNA over countless generations. The herd as a collective whole has learned where food sources are abundant and where they are lacking. Basically, the wildebeests know where to go and where not to go.

They go where the land is fertile and teeming with life and nutrients. Generally, they follow a clockwise circuit from the southern Serengeti westward to Lake Victoria, where more than half a million cows mate within just a few weeks during May and June. As they head north into Kenya and the Masai Mara, they’re met with some of their most treacherous obstacles: the annual torrential swelling of the Mbalangeti, Grumeti, and Mara rivers. Wildebeest not only fear the water itself, but also what may lurk beneath its surface and amidst the vegetation on the rivers’ banks.

Scientists know that wildebeests fear the water because they’ve observed a great hesitation from them in crossing. Their numbers might build up by the tens of thousands on a river’s bank before they have no choice but to forge ahead. Then one of the greatest dramas in Africa plays out as crocodiles lunge and thrash for their meals, or as the weaker wildebeest are caught by the river’s current and washed away to their deaths. It may seem tragic that hundreds or even thousands are lost, but without this natural cycle, the wildebeest population would explode to unmanageable numbers in just a matter of a few years.

Come October, the herd has come full circle across the Masai Mara and back south into the Serengeti. Cows are heavy with calves waiting to enter the world. And the cycle begins anew. Come experience this incredible act of nature and see these incredible animals in the wild with Discovery Tours on the 11 Day The Serengeti & Beyond: A Tanzania Safari.

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A Discovery Tours Tanzania Safari Primer

on August 14, 2019

Many first-timers have lots of questions as their safari draws near. We invite you to review the Trip Preparation tab for our Serengeti & Beyond: A Tanzania Safari. In the meantime, we want to share with you what a typical safari day looks like, bearing in mind that the structure of your day will vary by exact itinerary and lodging you are staying at. We also be sure to share some safari-specific tips that will make your adventure safe and comfortable:

A Typical Safari Day

With years of experience, Discovery Tours driver-guides have learned where animals tend to gather, though they can never guarantee consistent sightings. One thing is certain, though: the thrill of any African safari is in the search. It also helps that the parks of Tanzania are graced with some of the most sweeping and spectacular vistas on the planet.

Rise and Shine

Wildlife is most active in the early morning hours, so we’re sure to get out and explore as soon as we can. On some mornings, we even squeeze in a game drive before breakfast, then return to our camp or lodge for a satisfying meal.

Break for Lunch & Relaxing

During full-day game drives, your driver-guides prepare a picnic that you’ll enjoy out in the bush. There’s something truly special about savoring a meal while scanning the plains for elephants or giraffes in the distance. If we’re only out for the morning, we return to the camp or lodge for lunch. Often, we spend a few hours at camp to avoid the hottest part of the day—a great chance to do some journaling or relaxing between adventures.

Close the Day with a Drink

It’s a long-held safari tradition: sharing a drink in the bush with fellow adventurers at the close of a thrilling day. Our driver-guides know the best spots to break out the cooler and mix some drinks or uncork a bottle. After lingering over a drink or two, we return to the camp or lodge for the night.

Helpful Safari Tips

1. There’s no need to buy new clothes. Unless bright and vivid colors are the only hues that hang in your closet, you probably have what you need for safari. Wear earthen tones during game drives; and if color is a must for you, keep it muted. You will want these neutral colors that adapt to the changing temperatures throughout the day. Remember also to keep comfort in mind. Breathable, cozy outfits are an excellent choice for safari days.

2. Don’t fear the mosquito. The malaria mosquito is nocturnal. Even then, they don’t like moving air, so keep the ceiling fan blowing in your room. And remember that most bug-repellant clothing is not breathable, so use spray instead.

3. Repel the tsetse fly with your wardrobe. Navy blue and black attract the tsetse fly. Consider this when packing clothes and keep in mind earthen tones from tip #1.

4. We won’t be climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro but… the crater rim surrounding the Ngorongoro Crater lies at about 7,500 feet above sea level and might cause some discomfort if you’re sensitive to altitude changes. If you’re affected, then avoid over-exertion, drink plenty of water, and eat lightly.

5. Be a welcome guest, not a loud and smelly one. Remember that we are guests in the animals’ home. During safari, avoid making loud noises, eating, or other behavior that will distract the animals. And because animals’ senses of smell are so strong, leave your perfume and cologne at home.

6. Protect your skin. Tanzania is near the equator, so the sun is strong here year-round.  Pack plenty of sunscreen and apply it liberally and often. One bad sunburn can ruin your whole trip and you do not want to be hurting during your trip to incredible Tanzania.

7. Take a break, and bring your humility. The savannas and forests of Africa do not have public bathrooms. When we stop for bathroom breaks, men retreat behind one shrub and women behind another. Be prepared.

8. Don’t over-vaccinate. Consult your doctor or travel clinic to make sure, but typically malaria and yellow fever shots are all you’ll need. See your doctor or travel clinic 4-6 weeks before your scheduled departure.

9. Bring cash for visas. Tanzania requires a visa for entry into the country. The cost is $100 U.S. cash. Though you may purchase it at the Kilimanjaro Airport upon your arrival, we strongly recommend you acquire it in advance. To pre-purchase a visa, contact the Embassy of Tanzania, 1232 22nd Street NW, Washington, DC 20037, telephone (202) 884-1080. More information can be found here: https://www.gate1travel.com/visas

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East Africa: Natural Wonders and Epic Wildlife

on May 12, 2019

The eastern coast of the African continent is a pure and largely untarnished region that not only contains some of the most fascinating creatures and thrilling landscapes in the entire world but is also not overrun with visitors like some of its more popular counterparts. Eastern Africa consists of sub-Saharan countries including Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda and the islands of Zanzibar, part of Tanzania. The region is world-renowned for its incredible landscapes including some of the highest points in the world, like Kilimanjaro in Tanzania. Seas, valleys, lakes and coastal plains can all be found here as well.

The climate in this region is tropical for the most part but the average temperatures are slightly reduced due to the high elevations in the area. Uganda, Tanzania and Kenya all receive ample rainfall during the year and thanks to this, they have plentiful grasslands and woodlands that draw in some of the world’s most fascinating beasts. Wildlife is found here in abundance and there is no place on earth quite like it. Where else could you find zebras, gazelles, lions, hyenas and leopards all in one place?

If going on a safari is your dream vacation, visiting Eastern Africa is a must for you. No other place allows you to get this close to these majestic animals in their natural habitats.

Kenya, Land of the Wild:

Kenya is among the top countries in the world a life-changing safari experience. If seeing the “Big Five” (lion, leopard, rhino, elephant and Cape buffalo) is part of your bucket list, it is time to make it a reality in Kenya.

Nairobi is the capital of Kenya, the country’s largest city and most likely the city you will arrive in to start your expedition. Discover this gateway to your safari that is home to over 3 million people. Nairobi is one of the most modernized cities in the entire continent and has a plethora of things to see. Enjoy a visit to the famed farm of Karen Blixen, the author of “Out of Africa.” Continue to the Giraffe Centre where you will stand on an elevated platform and hand-feed the Rothschild Giraffes. This species of giraffe is only found on the grasslands of Eastern Africa. Here you will learn more about them and the breeding conservation being done to help this endangered species.

To the north is Samburu National Park, a fascinating reserve known for its strange and unique species including the beisa oryx and gerenuk. Learn more about the Samburu tribe that calls this area home and the difference between them and the Maasai tribe. While both tribes have their origins in the Maa language, the Samburu live north of the equator and embrace a nomadic lifestyle while the Maasai live south of the equator and are known for their iconic dress and culture.

The Masai Mara National Reserve is one of the most famous safari parks for spectacular game viewing and will not disappoint. Located in the southwest corner of Kenya, its name is derived from the local Maa language for which “Mara” means spotted. Spotted describes the land of the park which is scattered with thorn trees and dispersed with animals. See the stunning wildlife in the park including lions, rhinos, elephants, gazelles and hippos. The Masai Mara is a must visit to try and spot animals that are on your “Big Five” checklist.

Tanzania, the Safari Champion:

If you have already traveled to Eastern Africa to visit Kenya, you might as well stay for the underrated gem that is Tanzania. Kenya may be the country more famous for safari experiences but Tanzania easily keeps up.

Explore Tarangire National Park which contains the Tarangire River, the only fresh water supply for the Maasai people and their land during the dry season. Because of the fresh-water river, a huge diversity of wildlife comes to drink and look for food. This includes elephant, giraffe, buffalo, eland, lion, rhino and cheetah, to name a few. Get your camera charged because you will love taking pictures not only of the animals by the river but the distinguished baobab tree silhouetted against the savanna landscape. Take in this site because it is unique to Africa.

Lake Manyara is another location home to a diverse ecosystem that depends on a fresh-water source. At the lake, find monkeys, elephants and bright pink flamingos drinking from the water. If bird watching is more your thing, there are over 400 species here – so bring your binoculars.

One of the most important sanctuaries for wildlife in the entire world, the Serengeti National Park, is found in Tanzania. Welcome to the park that houses the largest concentration of animals in the entire continent. Wildlife may bring you to this park initially but you will be amazed at the amount of geological wonders, including kopjes, the inspiration for Pride Rock in the Lion King, caves, boulders, grasslands and savannas.

Uganda, Home of the Great Gorilla Trek:

Welcome to your gateway to one of the most unbelievable adventures you can experience in the entire world, trekking among the Bwindi gorillas. You have arrived in the rising star of Africa that is Uganda.

First, visit the Murchison Falls National Park, home to 100 mammal species and over 450 species of bird. Many important international visitors have traveled to this park, including Winston Churchill, Theodore Roosevelt and members of the British Royal family. View this magnificent waterfall that is created by the Nile forcing its way through a gap in the rocks.

A large part of the Nile River is located in Uganda and joins Lake Albert and Lake Victoria here. Along the Ugandan portion of the Nile you will find crocodiles and hippos relaxing along the banks of the river in the sun and looking for food.

Another highlight of your time in Uganda will be your Chimp tracking adventure in Kibale National Park. Your guide will take you on a hike that lasts about 2-3 hours looking for the primates in the lush green forest. Spot these intelligent animals feeding, patrolling, hunting, resting and taking care of their young.

In Bwindi National Park, you will be on the look out for one of the gorilla families that call this park home. Your trek can last anywhere from ½ hour to 7 hours, depending on their location. You will be permitted 1 hour to watch them play, eat and live their lives. This is a truly unique experience and you will never forget your time with these incredible primates in their territory. If you love animals and enjoy once-in-a-lifetime adventures, do not miss this opportunity with Gate 1 Travel.

Zanzibar, The Spice Island of the Indian Ocean:

Zanzibar is not your typical African territory but this island is too fantastic not to talk about! The Zanzibar Archipelago is a small set of islands located off the eastern coast of Tanzania in the Indian Ocean. The main island, Unguja, is commonly referred to as Zanzibar. The archipelago is not actually its own country but rather a semi-autonomous region of the country of Tanzania.

Stone Town is where the majority of people visiting the island pass through and it is an excellent example of an East African cultural hub. Stone Town is also the former hometown of Freddie Mercury and his childhood home is still here. Swahili architecture, mazes of alleyways and historical buildings all await in this traditional city.

Take a guided stroll through the Jozani Forest, the only national park in Zanzibar, and keep your eye out for monkeys, chameleons and many species of bird-life. Keep on high alert for the rare red Colobus monkey and the even more rare Zanzibar Sykes’ monkey while exploring. This forest acts as a natural pharmacy and contains countless remedies. Many of the plants and trees you will see in this park cure a variety of ailments.

En route to the eastern coast of the island you will see Mtoni Palace, one of the oldest structures in the area; explore a lush spice farm, where you will learn how spices are used in medicine and foods; and visit the ancient Persian baths, built by Sultan Seyyid Said for his wife. On the coast, you will notice the incredibly blue water and the beautiful white sand beaches. Zanzibar is an up-and-coming honeymoon destination for couples and a true hidden paradise for anyone who visits.

Eastern Africa is a promising destination for travelers who love nature and it is easy to see why. Unmatched wildlife, photographic landscapes and natural wonders all await you in these countries. Africa contains some of the last unblemished ecosystems on earth. Nowhere else can you see hundreds of different species living their lives together. It truly is a powerful experience that not everyone gets to appreciate. You may even get to enjoy the company of a family of mountain gorilla, some of only a few hundred left in the entire world! Let Gate 1 Travel take you to Eastern Africa and we will make sure all of the details are taken care of. Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda and Zanzibar are all waiting – it is time to see what you will find.

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Perfect Sunset in Serengeti National Park, Tanzania

on December 8, 2018

The Serengeti National Park is best known for its annual migration of wildebeest and zebra, but is is filled with unique wildlife, ecosystems and vegetation. Animals to be on the lookout while here include lion, cheetah, elephant, giraffe, crocodiles and honey badgers, to name a few! Some of the birds at the park include ostrich, secretary bird, kori bustard and many species of vulture. Plains, rivers, savannahs and grasslands are just some of the ecosystems that can be found here.

This week’s #g1photofriday was uploaded by user @pgbradley using the hashtag #gate1travel. This icy scene was taken in Perito Moreno Glacier at Los Glaciares National Park, Argentina. Be sure to tag your photos on social media with #gate1travel or #g1photofriday to be featured. Check out Gate 1 Travel’s Tanzania trips here!

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Hungry Hippos in Lake Manyara, Tanzania

on October 19, 2018

Lake Manyara is a shallow lake located in Lake Manyara National Park, Tanzania. This underrated lake is a true oasis for a plethora of animals including blue monkey, elephant, giraffe, zebra and of course hippo, to name a few. The lake is also an excellent place for bird watching; find flamingos, pelicans and heron here. Get out your binoculars and best safari hat for this can’t miss animal experience while in Tanzania.

hungryhippos

This week’s #g1photofriday was uploaded by user @pgbradley using the hashtag #gate1travel. This incredible scene was taken at the Lake Manyara National Park in Tanzania in Southern Africa. Be sure to tag your photos on social media with #gate1travel or #g1photofriday to be featured. Check out Gate 1 Travel’s Tanzania trips here!

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A Cat Nap in Serengeti National Park, Tanzania

on July 27, 2018

A beautiful leopard takes a rest in a tree in the Serengeti National Park located in Tanzania, Africa. The Serengeti National Park may be most famous for its annual migration of over a million wildebeest and zebra. The park has a vast array of wildlife that you can see out in their natural habitat. The big five are located here, (lion, leopard, elephant, rhino and African buffalo) as well as honey badger, Nile crocodile, Tanzanian cheetah, impalas, hyena, giraffe, kudu, monkey, East African wild dog, a 500+ array of bird species and so many more! Keep your eye out when visiting this park because you could miss an animal hiding in the trees, an animal with great camouflage or a small animal scurrying on the ground.

original

This week’s #g1photofriday was uploaded by user @ Tim Collins using the hashtag #gate1travel. This restfull view was taken of a leopard in Serengeti National Park in Tanzania, Africa. Be sure to tag your photos on social media with #gate1travel or #g1photofriday to be featured. Check out Gate 1 Travel’s Africa trips here!

Travel Tips

5 Best Places to Travel this Summer

on May 3, 2018

June, July and August are the most popular times to travel. Work has died down and mother nature is at her best so it’s the time most take their much needed vacation days. Unfortunately, this means that the people come in swarms, the temperatures rise and there is a line to do just about anything. Crowds, heat and lines are all synonymous with summer vacations so we decided to compile a list of destinations that will get you to cooler places, places with less crowds and places that demonstrate that little something extra during the summer. It is time to get off the beaten path, try somewhere new and enjoy your days off with relaxation and adventure. Join us on our summer list to see where you should be visiting this season!

Evening at Lake Louise5. Alberta, Canada
Alberta, Canada has a lot to offer; a warm, summer temperature, about 75 degrees average, that won’t leave you sweating and an array of National Parks, landmarks and beautiful views of nature that you cannot see anywhere else. Edmonton is the capital of Alberta and it is a perfect city to explore. Museums, the famous Farmer’s Market in Old Strathcona and many hip and delicious restaurants to sample all await you in Edmonton. Some can’t miss adventures in Alberta include Jasper National Park, known for its abundant wildlife, Athabasca Falls, Lake Louise, a glacier-fed lake and one of the most photographed spots in all of Canada, Banff National Park and Cave & Basin National Historic Site, great for exploring the naturally-occurring, warm mineral springs that can be found inside the cave, and outside in an emerald colored basin. Get in touch with mother nature during her favorite season in Alberta, Canada.

SugarLoaf RioDeJaneiro_1111_dt_65528674. Brazil & Argentina
If you are specifically looking to beat the heat, then South America is perfect for you. The summer of the United States is actually the winter season in Brazil and Argentina. For example, the average temperature of July in Buenos Aires is only in the 50s, while January is the hottest month with an average of 76, the opposite of the United States! If the temperature isn’t enough to wow you, then the sites will get you on the next flight to South America. Buenos Aires, Iguazu Falls, a beautiful collection of waterfalls that has viewing sides in both Argentina and Brazil. Rio de Janeiro, the home of the famous “Christ the Redeemer” statue and a picturesque beach, Sugar Loaf Mountain, Corcovado Mountain, which gives you a 360 view of the city of Rio, and so much more await you in this area of the earth. It’s time to brush up on your Spanish, put on your tango shoes and see the beauty that is South America: Brazil & Argentina.

3. Kenya & Tanzaniathe-serengeti
Welcome to another area that has its winter while the United States has their summer; Kenya & Tanzania. The average temperatures in July in Kenya & Tanzania are in the mid-70s and this is the coldest that they get all year! Luckily the temperature is not the only reason to visit, it is also the start of the dry season which makes for the best viewing for wildlife while on safari. June and July are also the best months for seeing the wildebeest migration through the Serengeti. Some of the great sites and adventures that await you on your journey include Karen Blixen Museum, the farmhouse of the prominent author of “Out of Africa”, Giraffe Centre, Elephant Orphanage, Samburu National Park, a park home to unique wildlife and a haven for birds, Serengeti National Park, Masai Mara National Reserve, a park renowned for its spectacular game viewing, Ngorongoro Conservation area and many more adventures! There’s no better time to take your safari then in the summer and in Kenya & Tanzania.

cappadocia32. Turkey
While Turkey might not be the best place to beat the heat, it is the perfect place to avoid the crowds you may find in the popular destinations around the world. The average temperature in Istanbul in July is in the 80s so it is on par with most European countries during this time but it has just as many great sites and things to see as European cities! The great thing about Turkey and why you should visit, is its location, between Asia, Africa and Europe, and the fact that it is not a huge travel mecca… yet. Turkey also has a background that dates back to ancient times so there is a lot of history, architecture and culture to explore. While in Turkey make sure to visit Istanbul, the city that straddles two continents and home to an amazing spice market, Anzac Cemetery, Canakkale, Troy, a 4,000 year old city and real-life setting for The Iliad, Pergamum, Asklepion, Izmir, Pamukkale, Antalya, Cappadocia, home to rock-cut temples and tons of hot air balloons, Ankara and all of their history! Get away from the crowds and see an authentic country embedded with ancient sites and cities.

1. Icelandblue_lagoon_k9a8760_01-2
Not only is Iceland a hugely popular travel destination, but July has the warmest temperature that this northern country gets. The average temperature in July is in the 50s in Reykjavik and is the perfect sweater weather to make you forget about the heat back home. Going to Iceland in the summer really gives you a completely different outlook than visiting in the winter. It is a time of year that daylight is at its longest and can last about 20 hours a day from mid-May to Mid-August. This means you have extra daylight and warm temperatures allowing you to explore everything Iceland has to offer; from an inventive restaurant scene in Reykjavik, to the geographical wonders of Gullfoss Waterfall. Other things to see in Iceland include Blue Lagoon, a unique natural pool of mineral rich geothermal water located in the middle of a lava field, South Shore, Skaftafell National Park, see Europe’s largest ice cap and the peaks of Skaftafell, Thingvellir National Park, Snaefellsjökull Glacier, a splendid strato-volcano at the very end of the peninsula, Stykkisholmur and so much nature and beauty! It’s time to get out your finest fleece, wool socks and, of course, some sunglasses for the daylight! Take a trip to this striking country for a cool summer vacation you will not forget.