Tanzania | Wildlife Safari and Cultural Connections

Climb for Cancer Foundation
Date:
Aug 21 - Aug 29, 2024
Duration:
9 Days
Price:
From $9,995
Interests:
Join Waitlist This departure is SOLD OUT Print Itinerary

About this trip

Tanzania is known for its expansive wilderness areas that are home to many majestic creatures. Experience the animal kingdom through multiple safaris covering the captivating landscapes of Tarangire National Park, Ngorongoro Crater, and the world famous Serengeti. Look for gentle elephants , agile leopards, graceful giraffes, over 1,000 bird species, and many others. Enriching the journey are opportunities to learn about Tanzanian culture through a coffee tour and a visit to a primary school. Finally, have the option to close your adventure with a new perspective of the Serengeti – an early morning air balloon safari.
This special trip is open to everyone, and your participation benefits the Climb for Cancer Foundation. The Foundation's travel program plays an important role in fundraising to support cancer patients and their families, while allowing explorers to check off bucket list travel experiences.

Highlights                                                                                       

  • Learn about the production of Tanzanian coffee from planting and harvesting to drying and roasting as you tour Arusha Coffee Farm, one of Tanzania’s largest coffee plantations
  • Connect with students and teachers at Ilboru Primary School, the first primary school in Tanzania designed to meet the needs of deaf and disabled children
  • Witness the Tarangire River and the array of wildlife that travel great distances to reach it
  • Behold the Ngorongoro Crater from your balcony at Ngorongoro Serena Lodge and explore the crater floor during two wildlife drives
OPTIONAL EXTENSIONS:  Combine this trip with one or both of Climb for Cancer’s other Africa trips: Uganda (Aug. 14-20) | Zimbabwe/Victoria Falls (Aug. 28-31)
PLEASE NOTE:  The Climb for Cancer Foundation is pleased to offer these three African trips, single or combined, to raise donations for oncology programs. Your generous support helps us provide comfort and hope to cancer families in need. A minimum $500/person donation is required for one or all of the trips. We are so grateful for your support and promise to be responsible stewards of both your donation and trust. Thank you in advance for your tax-deductible donation.

Meet your leader

Ron Farb

Educated at the College of William & Mary, and a former military aviator, Ron Farb has traveled to every continent and more than 50 countries. Ron has climbed the highest mountain on five of the seven continents, including Everest, Aconcagua (twice), Denali, Elbrus, and Kilimanjaro (seven times). By doing so, the Climb for Cancer Foundation, created by Ron and his wife Dianne in 2003, has raised more than $3 million to support cancer patients and their families.

 

 

About Climb for Cancer

The Climb for Cancer Foundation’s mission is to provide patient-centered support and fund the underserved needs of the cancer patients and their families, the clinical staff who treat them, and the social workers, child life specialists, and others who assist them in their cancer journey.  

The small Foundation has made a tangible impact on the lives of many people fighting the disease, and has funded or created several psycho-social programs which provide support to the patient and the family. The Foundation likes to think that its gifts fill in the cracks left by organizations that make much larger gifts.
 

Land Cost

$9,995

Per person

About this price

Land cost only. Does not include round-trip airfare to and from destination.

Single room supplement $1995

What makes us different

Rich content

All of our programs include experiences that are enriching and engaging to facilitate a genuine connection between our travelers and their destinations

Carbon offsetting

As part of our commitment to sustainable travel, we partner with ClimateSafe to offset the carbon emissions from each journey

Wildlife up-close

Enjoy up-close observation of the behaviors and interactions of wildlife in their native habitats

Meaningful experiences

We believe travel should be more than just a vacation – it should enrich and inspire

Low stress travel planning

We take care of all the details so you know your trip will be smooth sailing

Support local communities

We work with local guides and organizations so your trip includes authentic cultural experiences while supporting the economy of the region

Daily Itinerary

Print Itinerary
Arusha
Upon arrival to Kilimanjaro International Airport, a Holbrook representative will meet you and take you to your hotel in Arusha. The Gran Melia is located on 18 acres of beautiful landscaped coffee and tea plantations with views of Mount Meru. This is an arrival day and no meals are included.
Gran Melia Hotel Arusha
Tarangire
After breakfast and group orientation, head to Tarangire National Park. As you enter the park your game drive will begin. Tarangire National Park is home to the greatest concentration of elephants in Africa. The Tarangire River snakes through the park, and as it's the area's only permanent river, wildlife travel long distances to reach it. The 1,096 square miles of protected lands are home to a large variety of game, such as wildebeests, elephants, zebras, gazelles, elands, gerenuks, lions and leopards. Extensive grasslands, dotted with the occasional acacia or baobab tree, provide the optimum conditions for viewing wild animals. Bird enthusiasts will have the opportunity to see more than 500 avian species, including Yellow-collared Lovebirds, Rufous-tailed Weavers, Ashy Starlings, Stocking-thighed Ostriches, and Kori Bustards. In the afternoon arrive at Tarangire Sopa and enjoy lunch. Built to blend in with the vastness of its surroundings, Tarangire Sopa Lodge lies hidden among the kopjes, ancient baobab. Many elephants can be seen around the lodge, allowing visitors a close encounter. After lunch, you will have time to relax before a late afternoon game drive.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Tarangire Sopa
Ngorongoro
After breakfast take one more game drive in Tarangire and then depart for Ngorongoro Crater and the Lions Paw Lodge. An amazing view of the cradled Lake Magadi awaits you at the Lion’s Paw tented suites east of Ngorongoro’s caldera. After lunch, descend into Ngorongoro Crater for a later afternoon wildlife drive.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Ngorongoro Lions Paw Lodge
Ngorongoro
This morning descend into Ngorongoro Crater for a wildlife drive among one of the most unique concentrations of wildlife on earth. Vast grasslands cover most of the crater floor and provide ample grazing for resident zebras, gazelles, wildebeest, elephants, warthogs, and rhinos. With a large number of prey species contained within the crater, it is not surprising that Ngorongoro is also home to a dense population of lions. Enjoy a bush lunch before heading back out for an afternoon wildlife drive inside the crater. Later check into the Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge. The lodge is located on the on the crater rim and all rooms have a balcony offering beautiful views of the crater far below.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Ngorongoro Serena Lodge
Serengeti
In the late morning, begin your journey to Serengeti National Park. Have a picnic-style lunch en route, as well as wildlife viewing as you travel to Mara Mara Camp.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Mara Mara Camp
Serengeti
Start the day with a wildlife drive in the park. Serengeti National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site where over a million wildebeest famously migrate every year. It is known for having the Big Five (lions, leopards, rhinos, elephants, and African buffalos) as well as cheetahs, wild dogs, giraffes, waterbucks, zebras, and gazelles. Return to camp for lunch and time to relax and then experience a late afternoon safari followed by a refreshing drink before dinner.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Mara Mara Camp
Serengeti
Early this morning an optional balloon safari will be available (at additional cost). This once-in-a-lifetime experience will allow you a stunning bird's-eye view of the Serengeti that cannot be replicated on the ground. In the afternoon depart on a wildlife drive.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Mara Mara Camp
Arusha
Today fly back to Arusha. Collect stored luggage and freshen up in a day room at Arusha Coffee Farm before being taken to the Kilimanjaro Airport in time for your 5:20pm flight to Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
Breakfast-Lunch- included
Arusha Coffee Farm day room
VFA ext
Land Cost

$9,995

Per person

About this price

Land cost only. Does not include round-trip airfare to and from destination.

Single room supplement $1995

What's Included
What's Not Included
Pricing Details
Cost is based on a minimum of 6 participants in double occupancy.

A $1000 per person deposit and enrollment form is due to hold your space on this trip. This deposit is refundable 120 days prior to departure excluding a $500 cancellation fee. Cancellations after this date are non refundable.

Holbrook Travel strongly recommends the purchase of travel protection for medical emergencies while traveling and to protect your investment. Please note the purchase of Cancel for Any Reason Coverage or to exclude pre-existing conditions with Trip Cancellation coverage may require policy purchase within 10-14 days of your initial deposit, depending upon the provider.

Single room supplement $1995


Final payment due date: May 18, 2024

Travel Info

Print Travel Info

Entry & Exit Requirements

U.S. citizens must have a valid passport to enter Tanzania. Passports must be valid for at least six months after the date of entry and have at least one blank page available.

A tourist visa is also required for entry. An e-visa can be obtained online in advance by completing the e-visa application form and making payment online with a credit card (Visa or Mastercard) or bank transfer at https://visa.immigration.go.tz. Processing can take up to 10 days; please allow yourself sufficient time prior to travel. If the e-visa is approved, you will receive a “grant notice” via email. You must present a printed copy of the grant notice to the Immigration Officer on arrival at the airport in Tanzania.

U.S. citizens may also opt to obtain a tourist visa upon arrival at the airport in Tanzania, though we do not recommend this option. Expect delays if you choose to obtain a visa at the airport. Be prepared to pay in cash, as credit card payments can be unreliable due to connectivity issues.

The visa fee is USD $100 for a 12-month multiple-entry visa (subject to change).

If you are not traveling with a U.S. passport, please check with the Tanzanian Embassy for the requirements based on your nationality.

Health Information

IMMUNIZATIONS

The Centers for Disease Control recommends that all travelers be up to date on routine vaccinations such as measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, diphtheria-pertussis-tetanus vaccine, varicella (chicken pox) vaccine, and your yearly flu shot before every trip.

There are no vaccinations required for entry into Tanzania, unless you are traveling from a country where yellow fever transmission is a risk, in which case proof of yellow fever vaccination is required.

Additionally, the CDC recommends inoculation against hepatitis A, hepatitis B, and typhoid for most travelers to Tanzania.

Please consult your physician for additional information and recommendations based on your individual circumstances.

MALARIA

The CDC warns that travelers to Tanzania may be at risk for exposure to malaria. Malaria is caused by a parasite found in Anopheles mosquitos, which are active from dusk until dawn. Prevention is twofold: the use of anti-malarial drugs and the prevention of insect bites. If you choose to use an anti-malarial drug, as recommended by the CDC, see your physician for a prescription.

To protect against mosquitos and other biting insects, cover exposed skin with lightweight, long-sleeved shirts and pants, consider treating clothes with permethrin, and use an insect repellent containing an active ingredient like DEET or picaridin. Apply sunscreen first, followed by the repellent (preferably 20 minutes later).

OTHER INSECT-BORNE ILLNESSES

In addition to malaria, the CDC warns that travelers may be at risk for other illnesses transmitted by mosquitos, ticks, or sand flies, such as dengue fever, chikungunya, African tick-bite fever, and others. Travelers are advised to protect themselves against insect bites using the measures noted above.

After spending time outdoors, especially in grassy or wooded areas, the CDC recommends showering and conducting a full-body check for ticks. If you find a tick attached to your skin, safely remove it as soon as possible.

WILDLIFE

Follow all instructions from your guides regarding wildlife. Animals may become aggressive to protect themselves, their young or their mates, or to guard a food supply. Do not make sudden movements either toward or away from them, as this may be interpreted as threatening or territorial. Avoid stray dogs, as they may carry rabies. In the unlikely event of being bitten, clean the wound and control bleeding. Seek medical attention immediately.

Parasites & Bacteria

Avoid swimming or bathing in freshwater lakes or rivers. Some freshwater bodies contain disease-causing parasites or bacteria that may be contracted through contact with infected water.

SUN EXPOSURE

The effects of the sun can be damaging to the eyes and skin. Spending time outdoors exposes you to the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays, even on cloudy days. To protect yourself from the sun, use a broad spectrum sunscreen of at least SPF 15, protect skin with clothing, wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses, and drink plenty of fluids.

CPAP Machines

Some safari lodges and tented camps in remote areas of Tanzania supply electricity through generators or solar power, and shut off electrical power during part of the night in order to conserve energy. If you use a CPAP machine, please be prepared to bring a battery pack (and any necessary cables) to power your equipment when electricity is not available. The battery pack can be charged during the day in preparation for nighttime use. Please be aware that if you do not have a battery pack, some lodges may assess a fee to run electricity through the night.

Travelers Diarrhea

The CDC warns that travelers’ diarrhea is one of the most common travel-related illnesses worldwide. Consumption of contaminated food and water may cause diarrhea. To avoid this, do not drink tap water, and use bottled water to brush your teeth. Avoid ice and uncooked vegetables or fruit without a peel. When in doubt, ask your guide. Restrict yourself to cooked food at restaurants, and avoid food sold on the streets. If you contract diarrhea, it is important to drink large quantities of purified water. Consult your doctor for appropriate medication should you experience diarrhea

Respiratory Illness Protocols

Please review our Respiratory Illness Protocols page, which explains our policy and procedures if you or another traveler should develop symptoms of a respiratory illness during your trip. Your participation in a Holbrook Travel program indicates that you are in agreement with these protocols.

Resources

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Packing Recommendations

Everyone has personal preferences when it comes to packing; for this reason, the information below is offered as a general guide and not a definitive list. You know yourself best: Use your discretion and pack what you think will serve you, based on your personal preferences and specific itinerary.

You can find many of the items below in our Gear Store.

CLOTHING

Casual, comfortable clothing is suitable for most activities in Tanzania. You may wish to bring a slightly nicer outfit or two if your itinerary includes dinners out or more formal activities.

Bring enough clothing suitable for the length of your program. If you prefer to pack light, note that many hotels offer laundry services (at additional cost). If you plan to hand-wash items, remember that humidity may delay drying time.

Pack clothing that can be worn in layers to adapt to weather changes throughout the day. Clothing that wicks away moisture and dries quickly is recommended.

Bring clothes in neutral or muted colors such as green, khaki, brown, or grey. We recommend that you avoid wearing bright colors or white as they can easily be spotted by animals. In addition, blue is particularly attractive to certain insects and should be avoided.

Army-style camouflage clothing is illegal in Tanzania.

Locals tend to dress conservatively. Tank tops and shorts cut above the knee are typically not recommended in public.

  • A combination of short-sleeved and long-sleeved shirts
  • Shorts
  • A combination of lightweight, quick-drying long pants and medium-weight pants or trousers
  • Undergarments
  • Sleepwear
  • Light- to medium-weight jacket or sweater/sweatshirt – Evenings can be cold, especially in desert areas and during May-August
  • Bathing suit – Some hotels have pools.
  • Socks – Bring extra pairs.
  • Shoes – Consider your specific itinerary when choosing footwear. For most programs, you’ll likely want at least one pair of comfortable, closed-toe walking or hiking shoes with thorn-proof soles, suitable for forest hikes and walking over cobblestones or other uneven terrain. Sturdier hiking boots may be appropriate for more active itineraries. In addition, many participants opt for a pair of sturdy sport-strap sandals (e.g. Keens, Tevas, or similar), plus a pair of casual flip-flops or sandals for around your hotel.
  • Lightweight rain jacket, hooded poncho, and/or windbreaker
  • Visor or wide-brimmed sun hat
  • Bandana, scarf, or gaiter

Personal Toiletries

Pack toiletries based on your personal preferences and habits.

  • Shampoo, conditioner, lotion, deodorant/antiperspirant , etc. – If possible, avoid strong fragrances if you are sensitive to insect bites and to be considerate of your fellow travelers.
  • Soap and washcloth or a small, quick-drying microfiber towel – Washcloths are not standard in all hotels. If you normally use a washcloth, you may wish to bring one from home.
  • Hairbrush, comb, hair ties, shower cap
  • Toothbrush and toothpaste
  • Razor
  • Ear plugs, especially if you are a light sleeper
  • Personal hygiene products
  • Insect repellent with DEET or picaridin (see note below about treating clothing with permethrin)
  • Sunscreen and lip balm with SPF
  • Aloe vera gel
  • A travel pack of tissues – also useful as napkins or toilet paper if needed

In addition to your personal toiletries, it is useful to pack a small medical kit, which you can easily prepare. Helpful items might include: bandages, antihistamine, a pain reliever, motion sickness and/or altitude sickness medication (if you are prone to either), anti-diarrhea medicine, individually wrapped pre-moistened towelettes and/or hand sanitizer, antibiotic ointment, anti-fungal cream, moleskin for blisters, eye drops, tweezers, a mini sewing kit, and an extra pair of disposable contact lenses or eyeglasses if you wear them.

Days before you leave home, you may wish to consider spraying any clothing, socks, and shoes that will be worn in lowland, tropical sites with permethrin, an anti-parasite medication, to repel irritating pests and prevent the spread of disease. A recommended brand is Sawyer. Carefully read all instructions before use. Please note permethrin is highly toxic to cats and fish, and some aerosol products may be harmful to birds. Side effects may include minor itching, burning, or redness. You may want to use a laundry marker to label and keep track of which socks are permethrinized. Only one application per item is necessary; permethrin on treated clothes remains effective through several washings. Permethrin should NOT be applied directly to skin.

Miscellaneous

Remember to pack valuables such as your passport, cash/credit cards, and medications in your carry-on luggage.

  • Passport and photocopies of all travel documentation
  • Personal insurance card and travel insurance information
  • Money – ATM/credit card, traveler's checks, and/or cash; small bills in good condition are recommended
  • Prescription medicines (if applicable), with a copy of the prescription
  • Yellow fever certificate (if required; only if you're traveling from a country where yellow fever transmission is a risk)
  • Sunglasses with strap
  • Small day pack for hikes and excursions
  • Flashlight and/or head lamp
  • Travel alarm clock or inexpensive waterproof wristwatch with alarm – Not all hotels provide alarm clocks.
  • A pocket calculator or phone to assist with conversions and currency exchange
  • Binoculars with lens cleaner
  • Camera and related equipment, such as charger, lenses, and extra memory cards
  • Reusable water bottle
  • Non-perishable snacks
  • Pocket-knife or multipurpose tool - Pack in your checked luggage
  • Notepad or travel journal and pen
  • Music or reading material for down time, long bus drives, or on the airplane, and a portable bright light to read by
  • Collapsible walking stick with rubber tip
  • A small quantity of laundry detergent if you’ll be washing clothing by hand
  • Money belt
  • Voltage converter and plug adapter
  • Chargers for electronics

Note that Tanzania has banned single-use plastics. Visitors are requested to avoid bringing plastic bags into the country. This includes garbage bags and grocery/shopping bags. Zip-top style bags specifically used to carry toiletries per TSA’s liquids rule are still permitted on the assumption that they will be reused on the return flight. Items purchased at the airport before boarding the aircraft should be removed from plastic bags. Please double-check your carry-on luggage before disembarking in Tanzania; any plastic bags should be left on the plane to avoid delays and possibly fines.

I saw all the animals I had hoped to see and some that are not easily viewed. Amazing doesn’t even describe it accurately!
- Marianne B.
Tanzania , 2022
Questions

Contact Ron Farb at 352-333-9663 or Lisa Palmese-Graubard at 800-451-7111 x339 | lisa@holbrooktravel.com

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