Questions & Advice

If your son is coming to do work as a volunteer, then yes the new rates are USD 550- which is why there is so much debate about this. I notice he is only going to be here for 3 weeks but if he is going to be 'working' even as a volunteer then he needs to be careful.

On: 08 August 2011

Hi Laura, yes it is possible to a self drive or hire a car on a European license. Don't miss Selous Game Reserve, a UNESCO world heritage site as well as Uluguru Mountains. Let us know if we can help in any way. Contact us at your convenience. Regards Veronica

On: 13 December 2012

Dear Laura, if you are travelling to the South of Tanzania you definitely shouldn't miss the Selous Game Reserve. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this reserve is the largest protected wildlife sanctuary in Africa and is widely accredited as being the most pristine wilderness and one of the “secrets of Africa”. Elephants, lions, black rhinos, leopards, wild dogs, giraffes, hippos, crocodiles and more than 400 different birds can be seen among many other wildlife. And if you are looking for a beautiful and romantic camp "The Retreat Selous" might be your option. www.retreat-africa.com Please let us know if you need any further information. Regards Jochen

On: 19 December 2012

Dear Laura, if you are travelling to the South of Tanzania you definitely shouldn't miss the Selous Game Reserve. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this reserve is the largest protected wildlife sanctuary in Africa and is widely accredited as being the most pristine wilderness and one of the “secrets of Africa”. Elephants, lions, black rhinos, leopards, wild dogs, giraffes, hippos, crocodiles and more than 400 different birds can be seen among many other wildlife. And if you are looking for a beautiful and romantic camp "The Retreat Selous" might be your option. www.retreat-africa.com Please let us know if you need any further information. Regards Jochen

On: 19 December 2012

Dear Laura, I would agree with the other comments, you should strongly consider visiting the Selous which is spectacular. The roads in the Selous are quite challenging but that is part of the adventure of what you have come to see, real raw Africa! The Selous is very uncommercial and you will see very few vehicles in the reserve which gives you very private game viewing. For a slow classic safari we think it's the best part of Tanzania. Amara is a luxury tented lodge, all suites with stone bathrooms with outside showers and plunge pools, we have some great offers please see www.amara-tanzania.com Best wishes and good luck with your planning, Simon

On: 20 December 2012

Hi Laura, You can self-drive a Tanzanian vehicle with a European driving licence. My recommendations would vary depending on where you plan to go and how much time you have. If you are really planning on seeing a lot of southern Tanzania, remember that very few stretches have tarmac road. Basically there is the main highway to Zambia, the stretch from Makambako to Songea, and a new bit south towards Kilwa. So make sure you have a good reliable 4WD with jack, good spare tyres and tools, and that you can lock it up, as things disappear with ease in Tanzania, even in remote places. Many car hire companies will hire a vehicle with a driver. This can have the advantage, if he is also a mechanic, as he can look after the vehicle and its contents. If you decide to do this, maybe go for a test drive with him, as some drivers drive recklessly. The Selous would indeed by wonderful to visit, and so would the Udzungwas (if you like hiking, and birdlife), and above all Ruaha, which is a real gem. Do not miss Ruaha!!! When you arrive in Tanzania I recommend that you buy "A Guide to the Southern Highlands of Tanzania" by Liz de Leyser. It is excellent. If you also like scuba diving consider eco2 diving near Mtwara. If you have less than month, don't plan on doing too much. Tanzania is a big place, and the poor roads mean getting around can take time. It is a wonderful country. Have a great time!

On: 21 February 2013