Safaris - Tanzania - page 48

Walks are always accompanied by a guide, who is usually armed, and with whom you
will need to walk in close proximity.
Boat & Canoe Safaris
The best place for boat safaris is along the Rufiji River in Selous Game Reserve. They're
also possible on the Wami River bordering Saadani National Park, although the wildlife
cannot compare. Canoe safaris are possible on the Momella Lakes in Arusha National Park,
and sometimes on Lake Manyara (water level permitting).
SAFARI STYLE
While price can be a major determining factor in safari planning, there are other
considerations that are just as important:
» Ambience Will you be staying in or near the park? (If you stay well outside the
park, you'll miss the good early morning and evening wildlife-viewing hours.)
Are the surroundings atmospheric? Will you be in a large lodge or an intimate
private camp?
» Equipment Mediocre vehicles and equipment can significantly detract from the
overall experience. In remote areas, lack of quality equipment or vehicles and ap-
propriate back-up arrangements can be a safety risk.
» Access and activities If you don't relish the idea of hours in a 4WD on bumpy
roads, consider parks and lodges where you can fly in. Areas offering walking
and boat safaris are best for getting out of the vehicle and into the bush.
» Guides A good driver/guide can make or break your safari. With operators try-
ing to cut corners, chances are that staff are unfairly paid, and are not likely to be
knowledgeable or motivated.
» Community commitment Look for operators that do more than just give lip
service to 'eco-tourism' principles, and that have a genuine, long-standing com-
mitment to the communities where they work. In addition to being more cultur-
ally responsible, they'll also be able to give you a more authentic and enjoyable
experience.
» Setting the agenda Some drivers feel that they have to whisk you from one
good 'sighting' to the next. If you prefer to stay in one strategic place for a while
to experience the environment and see what comes by, discuss this with your
driver. Going off in wild pursuit of the 'Big Five' means you'll miss the more
subtle aspects of your surroundings.
» Extracurriculars On the northern circuit, it's common for drivers to stop at
souvenir shops en route. While this gives the driver an often much-needed break
from the wheel, most shops pay drivers commissions to bring clients, which