OK, you guys have totally spoiled me! Safari in 2009, Kilimanjaro in 2011 – you are now my gold standard for adventure travel. I just got back from 3 weeks in Patagonia (Argentina & Chile), it just wasn’t the same (camps, food, client service). I had to stop comparing this adventure to my previous trips with Thomson or drive myself crazy.

Thanks for doing things right!

Jane S.
Safari and Kilimanjaro Guest

I want to share a few comments about the wonderful adventures my wife and I have experienced on multiple Africa Through the Lens safaris led by Randy and Kathy Hanna. Finding the right words to capture the essence of an experience of this nature is nearly impossible, but without a doubt these photo safaris were life-altering events for us in a very positive manner. We approached these safaris with very high expectations, yet Randy and Kathy, along with the wonderful support staff from Thomson Safaris, managed to exceed those expectations in every way.

As amateur photographers, having immediate access to an experienced professional photographer, while in the middle of some of the best photographic opportunities in the world, was invaluable. Randy freely shared his expertise, doing so in a manner that benefited everyone to include the novice photographer. In the end, Randy ensured everyone (photographers and non-photographers alike) walked away with a wonderful experience and “once in a lifetime” photos.

While photography was a big part of these safaris, the experience involved so much more.  The opportunity to meet the people of Tanzania, see the landscape, and get the “red dust of Africa” on our boots, changed us forever.

I have been on three Africa Through the Lens safaris with Randy and have a fourth scheduled, so I guess you can say I’ve been bitten by the “African Bug”.  Anyone looking for a life-altering experience with an emphasis on photography cannot go wrong with a Thomson Safari Africa Through the Lens adventure led by Randy and Kathy Hanna.

Steve & Lori K.
Africa Through the Lens Safari

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Steve and Lori are planning their 4th Africa Through the Lens Safari with Randy Hanna.
Read Steve’s blog entry about their visit to a Tanzanian village on their most recent safari.

I can’t imagine how anyone could forget the camp staff! No matter how good the guide is, if you don’t have a good camp experience, the trip would surely suffer. The kitchen staff showed me their cooking area and one of the chefs even took the time to share a recipe.

Jane D.
Highlights of Tanzania Safari, February 2012

Wow!! Spectacularly wild!! What a natural experience!! Being a former Federal park ranger, interpreter and naturalist, I find it very difficult to describe to anyone back home what I witnessed and experience over the past two weeks. My interpretative and photographic attempt of what had transpired in front of my eyes would be completely unfair and unjust to the curious and interested listener. A wildlife biologist friend simply put it, you have to be there. There is no other way to experience it. You can sit on your couch and watch countless episodes of Nature or National Geographic specials, trying your best to grasp the African experience as a whole, but it would be to no avail. By being there, all your senses run rampantly wild, gathering the panoramic data that passes only a few feet from you. Whether it be amidst a herd of stampeding wildebeest and zebras or the battalion of olive baboons approaching the land rover from behind, only to split into two single ranks as they past alongside the viewer, you are there and momentarily become one with nature. What a thrill!!

So many good memories to cherish and the highlights were plenty…the hikes, sitting in the middle of stampedes. However, most of the credit goes to the guides. They definitely made the safari special. They were extremely friendly, jolly and very knowledgeable about the species, the landscape, plants and the future of the Great Serengeti. I had my two reference books at hand to follow up on their sightings and sure enough their species description were right on. Particularly the birds. I am an avid birder back home and the guides were outstanding in identifying the countless species of birds. Great job guides!! Particularly Derek. Perhaps Thomson should consider an “interpreter exchange program” between rangers in the US Park Service and the Thomson Guides. Boy, would the US Park Service benefit from these kind, gentle, enthusiastic, knowledgeable, hard working guides. They made the safari fun. Several of us were able to pry into their private lives and walked away knowing that we developed very special friendships.

Thomson Safaris is a top-notch organization with an exceptional safari itinerary, great folks and a great concern for the African wildlife and people. The safari was very well organized, great guides, great folks, great food, great accommodations, a great mix of cultural and natural experience. It was well planned from the first email to the drop off at the airport. We were kept up to date with our travel arrangements and the provided travel guide moved things along smoothly. I can see way Thomson Safaris was National Geographic recipient of the Best Adventure Outfitter on Earth. My hat is off to Thomson for putting together a fantastic and extremely well panned safari. What a blast!!

Bill W.
Signature Thomson Safari, February 2012

Lisa, who is the Senior Supervising Producer of The Martha Stewart Show, appeared alongside Martha Stewart in a “how-to” segment where they created a collage of Lisa’s safari photographs. The segment (below) shows viewers a creative way to get their vacation images off their cameras’ memory cards and on display in their homes.

Click here to view the embedded video.

Clip provided courtesy of The Martha Stewart Show

Lisa traveled with her entire family – all 3 generations – on a private safari with us over the December holidays. She and her family spent over two weeks visiting must-see locations like the Ngorongoro Crater and Serengeti National Park. “It was my parents’ idea…and it was the best trip I’ve ever taken,” said Lisa.

Like many of our safari guests, Lisa had a big job of editing and sorting through over a thousand photographs when she returned home from Tanzania. She selected several of her favorites for The Martha Stewart Show segment including the picturesque Tanzanian sunset, lions lounging on a kopje, and members of a Maasai tribe they visited – which she says, was a highlight of their trip – as well as a snapshot of herself with her sons by their Nyumba at the Thomson camps.

For more instructions and tips, visit Martha Stewart’s site.

We all found the Maasai experience remarkable. We were so warmly welcomed, in particular, by the little children who came up to greet each of us. Two stand-out moments were the warrior dances and when my daughter, Lisa, showed the children their own images on her camera. It was truly a moving experience to be with people from such a different culture than ours.

Ralph W.
Private Family Safari, December 2012

We tested quite a few prototype fabrics and uniforms until we finally found the right all-weather blend to provide protection from rain, wind and cold, while still maintaining comfort. Plus, you can’t miss the bright orange color! Our porters are excited about the new gear and often comment that this great improvement has made severe weather conditions much more tolerable.

If you’ve trekked before you know that porters are a hard-working lot. Our guests are always astounded as porters pass them on the trail at a rapid clip with 20-30 pounds of supplies, food and gear on their backs or atop their heads. Neither weather nor fatigue seems to slow them down!

Our Kilimanjaro guests return home with a great amount of respect and gratitude for porters, as displayed above. Read more comments from Thomson guests about our porters.

Outfitting our porters with uniforms is just one example of the many innovations and policies Thomson employs to take great care of its hard working guides and porters. Read more about our porter ethics and how you can help support Kilimanjaro porters.

My grandson, Jacob, and I had a wonderful experience and I am sure its something we will always remember.

Your Kilimanjaro staff was just great and looked after us at all times, the porters & guides made the trek a success. Our safari was just as wonderful, Jacob especially enjoyed the balloon safari.

Our holiday just wasn’t long enough. We hope to come back someday. Thanks again for all your help while we were preparing for our journey.

Judy G.
Kilimanjaro Western Approach Route & Safari, February 2012

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Read more on Judy’s trek and safari blog

I went on a safari to Kenya and Tanzania some 42 years ago in 1970. I remember it well because of the WOW factor I experienced back then. As this Thomson safari approached, I wondered if I would have a “been there, done that” reaction when I got there. Not at all. Thomson provided a WOW factor that, if anything, surpassed the one of 42 years ago.

We will certainly recommend Thomson to anyone we talk to about safaris. The Thomson experience was awesome. Thanks for a wonderful trip.

Bernie M.
Signature Thomson Safari, February 2012

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See some of Bernie’s favorite safari snapshots below!

Click here to view the embedded video.

I’ve been to over 55 countries and on all 7 continents – no one else does it better than Thomson! The fact that I brought my entire family along is the highest compliment I could give.

The trip was a huge success, far exceeding my entire family’s fondest expectations. I have no doubt we will return to Tanzania with Thomson Safaris.

Dick B.
Short Family Safari, February 2012

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This was Dick’s 4th trip with Thomson.
He trekked Kilimanjaro with us in 2003 and has been on 3 safaris with us since 1999.

John, Hashim, and Abu are amazing:  Great naturalists who can explain about everything from elephants to baobab trees while tip-toeing a jeep down an impossible road. Please tell them Asante sana!!

I did not expect to be as affected by people and their lives as I was. The schoolkids were great. We were impressed by the level of the 5th-grade math books we saw, and happy to learn that Thomson helps support them. Even the food was good…the last thing I thought about in anticipating our trip. Tasty and healthy!

Thomson really does put a lot of time and effort into anticipating all the details of each trip to produce the best visitor experience possible.

Michal S.
Highlights of Tanzania Safari, October 2011

See Michal’s photo diary of her safari!

It was a fabulous trip. I loved the summit day. Wilfred is an excellent leader and guide, Loshie is great and very friendly, Godlisten is a fantastic leader and extremely knowledgable and fun to be around!

I figured Thomson was the best company on the mountain since MTV climbed with you!

Allison C.
Kilimanjaro Western Approach Route, January 2012

Trek through Maasailand on the Explorer’s Safari
Climb to the glaciers at the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro on the Grand Traverse Route
Photos courtesy of Chuck Rubin and Joe Crump
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“We are honored and thrilled to be recognized by Outside,” says Judi Wineland, Thomson Safaris’ co-founder and co-director. “Travelers first started going on adventures with us in Tanzania more than 30 years ago. Today you will find the beauty of Mount Kilimanjaro and the Serengeti to be as breathtaking and boundless as ever.”

The April issue of Outside Magazine, America’s leading active-lifestyle and adventure-travel magazine, is available on newsstands this week.

The guides affectionately called my mom “BiBi” which caught on quickly for all of us, so now, mom is “BiBi”.  Ojukwu honored her resilience and stamina the night before we left.  He brought us all to tears when he expressed his appreciation for her ability to experience all the opportunities this safari offered us.  Mom felt like a queen.  Her birthday celebration is one we will never forget.

I have never been so satisfied with a trip….from the guides to the food to the unbelievable thought that every day was the best day.

Susan S. & Christine  G.
Signature Thomson Safari, January 2012

The trip is one we will absolutely not forget. It was fantastic in every way. We can only say great things about all the people that touched us on behalf of Thomson Safaris.

As the trip progressed, I became more and more aware of the logistics involved with moving a family throughout Tanzania.  I can honestly say that the Thomson Safari staff pulled it off without a hitch, they were available at every point, every transition was smooth and we were able to completely enjoy the experience without worrying about all the travel details.

As we spoke to people traveling with other travel companies, it became apparent that Thomson provides a superior service. Our guides, accommodations and our meals were far superior.

Janet S.
Kilimanjaro Umbwe Route & Safari, January 2012

The trip was the best yet.  Arnold is the supreme guide and he has been our favorite for the past 10 years. Andrew is now scheduling our trip for next February including the extension to Rwanda for the gorilla trek.

Dorothy L.
Private Thomson Safari, January 2012

This was Dorothy’s 4th safari with Thomson Safaris.
We look forward to seeing her again next year!

Thomson Safaris’ staffer, Bryan Rotundo, traveled to southern Tanzania during his most recent safari to East Africa. Find out what makes Ruaha National Park a special destination for him.

Ruaha National Park is unlike any place I’ve ever visited. If asked to describe it, I would say it is remote, wild and natural…but that barely scratches the surface. The truth is, Ruaha is a really difficult place to describe. I can tell you the wildlife is unbelievable but how do you describe landscapes so untouched that make you feel you discovered the place? How do you accurately convey true adventure and the feeling that you and your guide are the only people for miles on end? My recent visit to this intriguing national park proved that Ruaha is a place beyond words, it is an experience.

On paper, Ruaha is pretty amazing: Located off the beaten track in southern Tanzania, it is the largest national park in the country; it is also home to about 10,000 elephants who are able to sense and excavate water beneath the surface of Ruaha’s sand rivers; and rare species such as wild dog, sable, and roan antelope can be found here.

While this was a new and exciting destination for me, I still appreciate visiting parks of northern Tanzania, like the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater. These are some of the world’s most ecologically important regions and the fact they are teeming with wildlife makes them a must-see destination. But for a true wildlife enthusiast who enjoys the art of the search, tracking wildlife and has an understanding of wildlife behaviors, Ruaha is a dream.

The only way to explain the wonders of this inexplicable place is by recounting my first morning game drive from Mwagusi Safari Camp. We barely had to drive at all, just 50 yards from camp, we spotted a mother cheetah teaching her cubs how to hunt. With the sun barely above the horizon, the light showered this feline life-lesson in golden tones as we settled-in to observe this spectacular sight for the next 2 hours. We watched as the mother taught her cubs how to run, chase down prey – she even picked up a fox in her jaws just to show them how to do it. Phenomenal stuff. Comparatively, if we were wildlife viewing in the Serengeti, in 2 hours, we would have covered more ground and would have probably seen elephant, lion, wildebeest, and more. But taking our time and watching this single, natural event unfold was a totally fulfilling experience for me.

Leopard in Ruaha National Park

Clearing elephants from the airstrip to prepare for the next flight

My tent at Mwagusi Safari Camp

Cheetahs enjoying an afternoon repose

Mama cheetah teaching her cubs how to hunt

Elephants excavating for water in Ruaha`s sand rivers

The trip was enhanced by Mwagusi Safari Camp. The guides and staff at Mwagusi are passionate about the camp, the park and its wildlife. As for the accommodations, I’d call this lodge beyond eco-friendly – it is infused right into the ecosystem. Set on the Mwagusi River, each banda is made out of natural materials and has modern comforts. On nice evenings, guests enjoy dinner served under the stars on the banks of the river.

For any major wildlife enthusiast or experienced safari traveler, you really have to take a chance on a place that is hard to describe and experience the wilds of Ruaha National Park.

Want to experience Ruaha National Park for yourself? Check out our North & South Safari, which includes a visit to Ruaha. We can also help you plan a private/custom safari incorporating Ruaha into your itinerary. Call us for details.

We had a wonderful time in Tanzania – the safari far exceeded our expectations in every regard.

The boys adored our guide, Harrison Mremi. He had endless patience with us and an amazing ability to find large cats. Late one afternoon, he located a leopard in a tree that must have been close to a quarter mile away. At first sighting the cat was nothing more than a dot. But sure enough, when we drove closer, it was a happily sleeping leopard.

Steven M.
Signature Thomson Safari, December 2011

We had fabulous weather, sightings and great guides & comfortable campsites. I was so appreciative of all the fine young men who worked at the camps…their kindness, efficiency and eagerness to make us feel welcome.  I’ll never understand how they are able to serve a gourmet meal without electricity and a well-stocked kitchen. They were truly fabulous & I felt safe the entire trip.

I really enjoyed the variety of places we were able to visit…the Oldupai Gorge, the Massai village and Ikoma where we watched the women make baskets and see how they live.

I admire how Judi and Rick give back to the communities by supporting the handiwork of the women and the individuals at the Shanga Workshop.  I thought the craftsmanship at the Shanga Workshop was truly outstanding. It was remarkable that they were incorporating recycled materials.  I really liked knowing more about the communities we visited.

Without reservation, I would recommend Thomson Safaris to my friends, family and colleagues.

Pam H.
Highlights of Tanzania Safari, October 2011

This was a fantastic trip with a fantastic staff. Please congratulate and commend your guides, porters, and cooks for doing such a great job. We couldn’t have done it without them! Godlove and his crew should be highly commended.

Also comparing our guides to those we saw with other groups… there is no comparison! Ours were the best!  It truly was a wonderful experience for us.

Erin S.
Kilimanjaro Western Approach Route, September 2011

It is more than just a mere sign—these rustic, wooden planks have become an icon for trekkers who set their sights on the 19,340’ peak. When the sign finally reveals itself from a distance, it transcends from a landmark to become a symbol of achievement. For many trekkers, reaching the sign (and getting that great snapshot) becomes the sole motivation for the final push of their ascent.

Old Kilimanjaro summit sign
Photo courtesy: Peter Gaylord

Uhuru translates to freedom in Swahili but for those who have trekked to Kili’s summit, Uhuru Peak – and its iconic sign – represent victory!

Thomson Trekker, Tracy, describes her first view of Uhuru Peak’s summit sign, “Reaching Stella Point and seeing the Uhuru Peak sign in the distance was the highlight – nothing was going to come between me and the Peak. [It] gave me an adrenaline boost and refueled my emotional ability to get to Uhuru.”

A new sign was erected at Uhuru Peak a few weeks ago, replacing the brown, rustic, weathered landmark with a shiny, new, green sign. This extreme makeover coincides with Tanzania’s semi-centennial – the new sign may have been a 50th birthday present to Uhuru Peak. Here’s to the next 50 years and a new vision of freedom and/or victory at high altitude!

New Kilimanjaro summit sign
Photo courtesy: Leslie & Andy Biggs

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What is it like to climb Mount Kilimanjaro with Thomson?
Watch the video below and celebrate summit success with a Thomson trekking group.

Click here to view the embedded video.

It was a trip of a lifetime.  As you know Lise and I were continuing to South Africa, Zimbabwe and Botswana which was delightful but I must say that the highlight of the trip was our safari with Thomson.

Lyse R.
Signature Thomson Safari, November 2011

Variables such as ever-changing wind patterns dictate each balloon flight: Passengers may soar high above the park, viewing grand perspectives of the plains; they may fly very low to the ground for an intimate view of the flora and fauna; the wildlife may remain hidden from view or may be visible in great abundance. All of these elements combine to make each flight a unique experience.

One of the consistent features of the Serengeti hot-air balloon flight is the Champagne toast upon landing. This decadent tradition is said to date back to the late 1700’s following one of the first hot-air balloon flights, when a pilot offered a bottle of Champagne – initially meant for him and his passengers – as a gesture of goodwill to the owners of the farm where the balloon touched down. Since then, every hot-air balloon flight concludes with a Champagne toast.

Our guest, Casey Kenaston, shared a video montage with us documenting his entire balloon ride over the Serengeti, beginning with balloon inflation and take-off and concluding with the champagne toast and the “out of Africa” breakfast. He told us the highlight of his experience was following the curves of the hippo-inhabited river from above. Be sure to watch his video here.
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Casey adds, “My safari with Thomson Safaris was a great experience and one that I will remember all of my life. One of the highlights of the trip was a balloon ride over the savanna. We got up early in the morning, while it was still dark, and traveled to the sight where the balloon was being inflated. We ascended shortly before sunrise. There were thirteen of us in the party and we all stood in the large balloon basket during the ride.  We traveled at various altitudes from 100 to 1000 feet to provide an optimum view of the animals and scenery.  It was a beautiful site and we saw a variety of African game. I had the opportunity to get excellent photos and video of the trip. When we landed, we had a nice breakfast awaiting us.”

The overall experience was a perfect 10, it has been the best vacation I have ever taken! I am worried about how I will tell my friends and family about this adventure – NO WORDS can capture it.

How could anyone possibly understand the excitement I felt while: seeing a lion pride, listening to Charles’ experiences as a guide, experiencing the changes of the savannah, seeing “grass as far as you can see”, counting 21 giraffes outside of your nyumba, listening to Leonard’s tall tales, learning about Thomson’s commitment to the people and land of the Serengeti, watching wildebeest run, seeing a baby “tommie”, traveling in a Land Rover with the African sun and wind in your face, parking next to an elephant for the first time with Patrick’s careful planning of where to be, sitting around a fire at night, looking up at a million stars, photographing an ostrich, standing on the rim of Ngorongoro Crater, walking into Gibb’s Farm for the first time and eating incredible food served by extraordinary people?  It has been the trip of a lifetime.  I will try to share this as best as I can!!!

Linda H.
Signature Thomson Safari, October 2011

PS: Thank you for the trip preparation materials!  I would have been lost without your incredible materials and timeline.

When I first read the itinerary and saw the amount of time devoted to the Maasai, I was disappointed.  I thought it would be somewhat commercialized and that the time would be better spent on additional game drives.  However, I could have not been more wrong.  The Maasai activities were outstanding.  Very well-planned and executed.  A true highlight of the safari.

Johnson and Amos took excellent care of us and we came away with an understanding of the Maasai that would have never been possible had Thomson not included these activities in our itinerary.

Rich B.
Signature Thomson Safari, September 2011

Meet Thomson Safaris staffer, Andrew Doherty, as he recounts his recent safari in East Africa.

From a young age, I was obsessed with wildlife and the natural world. I’d spend hours poring over the cards in my Wildlife Treasury Collectors’ Box, imagining what it might be like to see a Mustached Monkey or a Komodo Dragon in real life. Or better yet…what would it be like to have one for a pet? Throughout my childhood, my parents would let us keep all sorts of animals as pets – at one point we must have had over 60 mammals, reptiles, amphibians and fish in the house!

Since then, my passion for wildlife has only flourished and has influenced many travels around the world in search of unique encounters with nature. I still thank my folks for nurturing my curiosity; had they not been so open-minded, I probably wouldn’t be here, organizing wildlife adventures for Thomson Safaris.

Last month, I went back to northern Tanzania to revisit Tarangire, Ngorongoro and the Serengeti for another trip of a lifetime. This time around, I witnessed the tail-end of the migratory wildebeest herds crossing the Mara River, multiple lion hunts, several leopards, huge herds of elephant  (one herd was around 300 individuals!) and even rare species like Lesser Kudu. The second half of my safari brought me to neighboring Rwanda for a different kind of wildlife viewing experience – hiking through the bamboo forests of the Virunga Volcanoes to observe Mountain Gorillas. This was uncharted territory for me and I was beyond excited to finally see these endangered primates in their natural habitat.

On the morning of my gorilla trek, I woke up to stunning views from Virunga Lodge of the surrounding alkaline lakes and the eight volcanoes of the Virunga Massif, which set the tone for this unforgettable day.

Once we arrived at Volcanoes National Park, the head ranger debriefed me and my trekking group on gorilla behavior and the gorilla group we would be visiting, the Agashya family. This particular group is made up of 26 gorillas including a 450lb Silverback, ten mating females and fifteen adolescents and babies; since most groups are comprised of 10 apes, with a maximum of 30, I was thrilled to be tracking such a large family with a stable social structure.

After a 30-minute hike through mountain-side farmlands that typify much of Rwanda, we arrived at the entrance of the national park’s dense and serene bamboo forest. The ascent was slightly difficult due to mud and loose terrain, but the pitch was very mild, so we were able to move quickly through the forest. Forty-five minutes later, the rangers stopped to inform us we were very close to the Agashya family and if we listened carefully, we could hear them waking up to start their day.  It was true; we could hear twigs snapping as they moved through the brush, munching sounds as they started eating their breakfast and even conversations (a series of low-pitched, soft grunts)…our collective adrenaline began pumping.

As we rounded a thicket and entered an opening of the forest canopy, we made our first contact with the gorillas!  We saw several females of varying sizes and ages lounging in their nests on the forest floor and even above us in the branches, their babies came out to greet us – sometimes walking within a few inches of our feet! And then at last, we all met Agashya, the massive Silverback for which the family is named (Agashya means “special thing” in Kinyarwandan).

The View from Virunga Lodge

Entrance to Volcanoes National Park with guide, Moses, and the gorilla trekking rangers

The first part of the trek took us through lush green farmlands, typical of Rwanda’s countryside

Gorillas nest on the forest floor and in the canopy above

Gorilla babies eat, sleep and play all day

This mating female sat silently observing her young

Meet Agaysha, the group’s lone Silverback male

Visiting with students of Mwiko Primary School, an excursion from Virunga Lodge

Traditional Intore dancers celebrating fertility and the new harvest

Even though I have seen Silverbacks on TV and in captivity, there is nothing like experiencing this magnificent creature on his own turf; suddenly his sheer size was unfathomable – an astounding fact to me, considering he will spend most of his existence feeding primarily on bamboo and other available leaves, stems and shoots.

Over the next hour, we observed countless examples of gorilla behavior. As they ate, the whole experience reminded me of a holiday meal with my own family; the young gorillas were almost always looking for trouble as they climbed all over one another and made a lot of noise, their mothers were working overtime to constantly set them straight long enough so they might sit down to eat, and all the while, the great Silverback, Agashya, looked on with seeming disinterest as he devoured his own meal of bamboo.  I was totally enthralled as I got to take all of it in at very close range.

My gorilla trek has made a lasting impression on me. If you’re like me and have always dreamed of going on safari, my advice is, don’t wait. The world is changing and you never know what lies beyond the bend.

I spoke with my clients when they returned and they had a FABULOUS time.  Could not say enough about Thomson, the guides, the activities, and the general care they felt while traveling.

Another successful voyage with Thomson Safaris.  I love having a tour operator that I can recommend with complete confidence.

Thank you!!!
Wendy L.
Senior Travel Consultant

I had a wonderful time! It was incredible, magical, rich and beautiful, and overflowing with SO much. I am still in a glow from the wealth of all that we encountered. It was one of the most amazing and memorable trips I have ever taken! Every day was a new adventure, and time didn’t exist…. I slept so peacefully, with all the quiet and black stillness (for me, that was a particular treat, with no city sounds and lights anywhere….!).

Everything was so carefully and thoughtfully organized and orchestrated for us, I felt truly spoiled. Every member of the team exuded enthusiasm for our comfort and well-being. Kumbi and John were a joy to be with as we bounced along from one “wow” moment to another. It’s clear that Thomson Safaris has given much attention to who is added to the overall team.

I especially enjoyed the meals prepared for us at each camp – very flavorful and imaginative dishes – some of the appetizers were especially great, like the roasted/toasted nuts, and the crisp banana chips with savory seasoning. Since I like to cook, I was always eager to see and taste what we were going to be treated to.

I want to thank you, Eliza, for all your patient and supportive help with this trip – there wasn’t a thing you left to chance, and I appreciated that a lot.

With best wishes,
Linda F.
Signature Thomson Safari, November 2011

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I’m sad to leave because I feel like our group has been a family and we’ve grown so close to the guides and porters.  But I also am leaving feeling so accomplished and exceeding every expectation that I had dreamed.  After speaking with others who chose different outfitters, I am confident that Thomson is the best.

Tally W.
Kilimanjaro Western Approach Route & Safari, September 2011

Recently our Arusha staff gathered for a second celebration in Tanzania. It was a day filled with dancing, sport tournaments, food and merriment. Head guide, Hashim, took control of the PA to entertain the guests, trophies (topped with mini Land Rovers) were awarded to the soccer and volleyball tournament winners and special recognition was paid to employees who have gone above and beyond this year.  See the video below for a quick montage of the day’s festivities.

Click here to view the embedded video.

I had the best time of my life in Tanzania. Over the last 20 years, I have traveled extensively; but this Safari was the best trip ever. The Thomson staff was incredible; every one of them…Thank you Charles, Patrick and Leonard for making this journey the most amazing experience of my life. I am so grateful I chose Thomson.

I had the privilege to meet fantastic people and made some new friends along the way. There are no words to describe my trip to Tanzania; the people, the animals, the nature, the sceneries… I was blown away.

The Tanzanians’ culture is complex and fascinating; their traditions are interesting, beautiful and unique. The resilience of the African people is inspiring; and I understand now why you can leave Africa but Africa will never leave you… I am still dreaming about Africa.

Thank you again for introducing me to Tanzania. I can not wait to go back.

Nancy A.
Signature Thomson Safari, October 2011

Amazing! I can’t believe I did it and I couldn’t have done it without the help of the Thomson crew.  They provided outstanding service and dedication to ensure we got up the mountain safely and successfully.

Wilfred led a great team that was always smiling and encouraged us every step of the way! The guides took time to help each of us individually during our low points to ensure we made it! I will be recommending Thomson and Wilfred to anyone I know that wants to embark on this incredible journey!

Christina S.
Kilimanjaro Western Approach Route and Safari, August 2011

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Tanzanians are proudly celebrating 50 years of independence today.

After several decades, Tanganyika gained its independence from Britain to become The United Republic of Tanzania. Julius Nyerere, known as Baba wa Taifa (Father of the Nation), was influential in uniting much of the country by advocating for peaceful change, social equality and racial harmony. With the help of his efforts, Tanganyika became a republic on December 9, 1961.  In 1964, Zanzibar followed and the two nations unified to form the United Republic of Tanzania with Nyerere as its first president.

A host of independence day celebrations are planned throughout the country including a weekend-long festival and a grand celebration at the National Stadium in Dar es Salaam.

Another celebration, The Kilimanjaro Uhuru Climb, kicked off several days ago when 200 climbers, dispersed across four different routes on Kilimanjaro, began their ascent carrying the Uhuru Torch. The climbers converge at the summit today where they will reenact a  symbolic torch lighting from 50 years ago.

Focus on Tanzanian Communities (FoTZC), our non-profit arm specializing in community-based projects, recently completed the construction of a kitchen with high-efficiency stoves at Robanda Primary School, which is located just outside Serengeti National Park.

Prior to the stove installation, the kitchen staff had to rely on the inefficiency of cooking on an open fire as well as depending on the students to supply bundles of firewood each week.

Yohana Makongo, headmaster at Robanda Primary, told our staff that "thanks to Focus on Tanzanian Communities, the kitchen has been completed and it is wonderful. Our students, teachers, and staff are very excited about using this facility as it will help us very much. Giving students nutritious meals is so critical for learning."

The benefits of the new kitchen and the stoves are three-fold: food preparation is more efficient, the children can focus on their studies instead of gathering wood and the amount of wood culled from the surrounding area is decreased.

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Read about this and more in The Focus, the annual FoTZC newsletter, due to arrive in supporter’s mailboxes this week. Find out how you can become of FoTZC supporter or donate online.

My husband and I returned from our Thomson Safari less than a week ago, and I couldn’t wait to tell everyone about our wonderful experience.  We did lots of research before deciding to request catalogues from several companies.  Our decisions were based on likelihood of seeing the most animals, accommodations, guides, itinerary, testimonials of previous travelers, and price.

When we received the Thomson catalogue we thought that if even half of their descriptions were true, this would be the safari company for us….it was all true!  We had the trip of a lifetime.  Below is a list of some info and suggestions from our trip:

• A Tanzanian safari was best for us due to the high concentration of animals in a relatively small area.  We also took an amazing extension to Zanzibar that was a real highlight.

• Consider booking an individual safari…it’s not that much more expensive, and you get to choose your own itinerary and have the full attention of one of the superb Thomson guides.  Our guide, Casmir, was perfect in every way:  he had broad knowledge of wildlife and plants, Tanzanian culture, history, politics, and he spoke prefect English, plus he had a great sense of humor and fun.

• Spending 2 days each in 3 different game areas was just right for us.  We got to see several habitats and more animals than I ever dreamed was possible.

• The Thomson Nyumbas at each game reserve were the perfect combination of rustic campsite and luxury accommodation.  The beds and furnishings were beautiful, the lovely bathrooms were functional and attractive, the chemical toilet was simple to use, and the showers felt great after a dusty game drive.  The meals were so good that I gained 5 pounds!  I can’t say enough about the staff at each Nyumba…they were unfailingly helpful and accommodating.

• Don’t worry about what to pack and preparing for your trip.  Thomson sends you everything you’ll need with complete instructions and a packing list that doesn’t miss a thing.  They also make the visa process very simple.  We were never faced with something we didn’t expect, or made us anxious, because the trip preparation info and instructions were so thorough.

We had the safari of our dreams because we chose Thomson Safaris.

Judy N.
Private Thomson Safari, October 2011

Reaching Stella Peak and seeing in the distance the Uhuru Peak sign was the highlight – nothing was going to come between me and the Peak. Stella gave me an adrenaline boost and refueled my emotional ability to get to Uhuru.

Pulling out my Canadian flag and standing on “the rooftop of Africa” is an experience that might be impossible to beat. Thank you, Thomson!

Tracy K.
Kilimanjaro Western Approach Route, July 2011

Livestock is a sacred and valuable commodity to the Maasai but an easy meal for lions.  The loss of a cow has an immediate impact on the personal wealth and prestige of a herdsman. With so much at stake, the Maasai often engage in retaliatory killings of nearby lions.

Dr. Lichtenfeld believes this activity has contributed greatly to the overall decline in lion populations.

Watch the video below to learn about Living Walls, the innovative fencing enclosure developed by Dr. Lichtenfeld. Her on-ground, non-profit organization works with the Maasai to build these enclosures and educate and empower their communities. Dr. Lichtenfeld says this combination of elements has “transformed warriors fighting wildlife into warriors for wildlife.”

Click here to view the embedded video.

Tanzania stole my heart, it was even more than I had hoped it would be and Thomson did a fabulous job right from the moment I sent my first email inquiry. This was my first international trip and also the first time I have ever traveled on my own. I was an exhausted mess after two days of traveling but when I arrived in Arusha, Casmir was there to meet me and got me checked in at Rivertrees for a much needed shower and nap.

Your suggestion of the one day hiking safari in Arusha National Park was perfect, Casmir picked me up on my second day for a fantastic introduction to Tanzania. He was a wealth of information and being on my own meant I could sit and enjoy views as long as I wished. The hike up the mountain was very refreshing, particularly after sitting on planes and in airports for such a long time.

When the rest of my group arrived and we set out, it was magic. John, Casmir and OJ were fantastic guides, always patient no matter if we asked the same question a hundred times and best of all they had a great sense of fun and adventure. As a group we all bonded very well, we were like family within days – after all, we were sharing the adventure of a lifetime.

Thomson Safaris’ organization of our trip was amazing, we were pampered and cared for by warm, friendly people everywhere we went. Each camp and lodge we stayed at was well-appointed, clean and best of all, they were environmentally friendly. As a woman traveling on her own I must say everyone seemed to go out of the way to ensure I was well cared for and happy. Our last day was a sad one for me and I can honestly say, I cannot wait to return.

I left Arusha for Egypt to meet my daughter for another tour. That tour company was not well-organized and they did not make us feel very secure. This was quite a letdown after my Thomson Safari. My daughter was left wishing she had joined me in Tanzania instead.

I would heartily recommend Thomson to anyone considering a safari.
Asante sana!

Linda G.
Signature Thomson Safari, September 2011

The IMAX film inspired us to do the Kili trip. As the date approached, we decided this would be the perfect elopement trip. Our original plan was a simple exchange of wedding rings on the mountain.

We’d been with our trekking group for a couple of days but hadn’t shared our idea until we got to the Londorossi gate. It all started when fellow trekker and nurse from the Mayo Clinic, Kim, asked how long we had been married. We laughed as we showed her the rings we were carrying around our necks and told her our plan to elope on the mountain.

Kim asked if she could tell the rest of the group, and from there, everything took on a life of its own in the most fantastic way. Lou, another hiker in our group, was a minister who said he would be honored to do a small ceremony for us. The ceremony he designed was simple but beautiful, just what we wanted. Seasoned trekker and the oldest person in our group at 70, Jim, volunteered to walk me down the aisle. Our head guide, Wilfred, served as Jack’s best man. Wilfred later told us via email, that when he told his wife this story, she didn’t believe him!

We decided to have the ceremony at Lava Tower so everyone could be part of it – and what a community wedding it ended up being! Our Thomson group, plus another Thomson group and the combined staff, collected before dinner for our wedding. The ceremony was magical, personal and touching, in the most incredible setting.

After the ceremony, all the porters gathered around us to sing traditional Tanzanian wedding songs containing advice on how to take care of each other now that we were husband and wife.

We have a wedding guest book signed by almost 100 people, none of whom we’d met two weeks before. Everything was just perfect. Thanks to the joy and participation from everyone traveling with us, we definitely had the wedding we had always dreamed of that we never knew we could have!

How can I ever thank you, and all of the Thomson staff, for the most incredible trip of a lifetime – truly my dream come true!  I’ve already had 5 friends ask me the name of my tour operator – I told them Thomson is absolutely top notch!!

The safari was wonderful and the animals were magnificent!  I loved the visit to the school and dancing with the children – we were all so excited to give them the school supplies.

Our guides, Willie, Phanuel, James and Kumbi were fantastic – so much fun, knowledgeable and so professional!  The staff at our camps, and Gibb’s Farm, could not have been more gracious or helpful!

I’m proudly wearing my bracelet that I bought at the women’s cooperative.
It was a privilege to travel with Thomson Safaris!!  Many thanks!

Ruth S.
Signature Thomson Safari, September 2011

It was a totally amazing experience!  Thanks for the help in coordinating and providing us with all the trip details and guidance. We feel so fortunate to have had this experience and know that we got our money’s worth by choosing Thomson.

Talking with the staff and learning a little Swahili was a real trip highlight.  I was blown away by the kindness and diligence exhibited by each of the guides, waiters, and porters on our journey to the top of the mountain.  Besides a safe summit, it was obvious during the hike that customer service is Thomson’s number one goal.

At first we were all surprised by the amount of support crew (38) traveling for just our group of eight climbers.  Then, after seeing just how much went into setting up camp and getting us to each site, it was obvious that this was an immensely coordinated production.  With that much support and comfort there was no question that we were getting to the top!

It was a real surprise to see so much wildlife at Ndarakwai Camp [before the trek].  What they’ve done and are currently doing there is awesome. We were especially impressed with our walking guide who wouldn’t give up until we had seen some elephants up close.

We had such an amazing vacation and feel so satisfied to have made it to the top!  Thanks so much again for your help and for the great experience that Tanzania and Thomson provided!

Dave & Amy M.
Kilimanjaro Western Approach Route, July 2011

Taking the extra days to acclimate made us feel SO well-prepared that summiting was actually enjoyable…when I saw climbers from other companies really struggling, I realized just how hard it could be and how significant the difference was with Thomson. They did a great job!

Gary H.
Kilimanjaro Grand Traverse Route, August 2011

Sarah and I had an absolutely wonderful time…we could not be happier with Thomson and what you set up for us. Truly everything from the transportation to the lodges, and all the moments in between, surpassed even our highest hopes for our honeymoon trip…you guys really spoiled us.

And our guide, Leonard, is one of the most interesting, funny and amazing persons I’ve ever met. He was a big part of what made the trip so wonderful…you are lucky to have someone like him representing your company. We didn’t want to part ways with him upon leaving for Zanzibar.

Thanks again for everything, we were truly spoiled.

Dan & Sarah H.
Luxury Lodge Safari with Zanzibar Extension, July 2011

I just wanted to thank Thomson for a vacation I will never forget! It was breathtaking, well organized, ran like clockwork and absolutely the best vacation I have or probably are ever likely to take again!

Our crew on the mountain, lead by Godlove, was outstanding and we owe our success to them. So from everyone in my family…a huge thank you!

Karen K.
Private Kilimanjaro Trek, August 2011

We had a wonderful time and enjoyed the company of the group who joined us. This may happen with every group. . . but we think we had an ”extra special” bond with each other and our guides. The best part was the surprise around every turn. Would we see a herd of gazelle? A beautiful vista of the Serengeti? Lions in the mating mode?

Our guides, Hashim and Kumbi were friendly, professional, and fun! We enjoyed their company and depended on them to take good care of us. They couldn’t have been more accommodating, helpful or patient.

We thought the nyumbas were clean and comfy – and the staff in each place gave us fine service. The last two days at the Serengeti Nyumba had sweeping views and we were visited both evenings by a group of about forty giraffes. Now, that was something!

Tanzania truly is a place like no other in the world.

Thanks for your service. You always called us promptly and answered all our questions especially with airline booking challenges. We were well-prepared for the trip due to your complete lists and details about what to bring and what to expect. Everything was as you described.

Judy & Doug D.
Signature Thomson Safari, August 2011

It really was a once in a lifetime experience and I am so glad I did it and even happier I did it with Thomson.  Our guides, porters and the whole Thomson staff made this trip amazing!

There was not one moment where I felt nervous, unsafe or unsure that our whole group would make it to the top.  I really do attribute our successful summit to the amazing guides we had.  They were so attentive to us and were constantly motivating us on our hike.  The guides, porters, cooks and waiters were always so upbeat and friendly that even when some of us felt extremely sick and tired we stayed in good spirits throughout the trip.

Thank you so much for helping us with planning this trip and for answering my unending list of questions.  This was the best trip I have ever taken and I have to thank the whole Thomson staff for that.  I plan on going one of your safaris in the future and have already recommended Thomson to family and friends who want to hike Kilimanjaro.

Kara T.
Kilimanjaro Western Approach Route, July 2011

We returned from our extraordinary adventure with Thomson yesterday.  It was truly remarkable, amazing, fabulous and all those other cliched words that cannot  possibly capture the experience. Thomson exceeded our expectations, and the trip itself was beyond what I even imagined.

No one should leave this earth without venturing into Tanzania.  Our guides (especially Robert)  were great, the food was terrific, and the itinerary was perfect. Now I am experiencing re-entry culture shock.

It is quite admirable what Thomson has accomplished with the land in East Africa, the jobs they provide for the local people, the efforts to preserve the integrity of the camps, the energy conservation and much more.

Harry S. & Anne T.
Signature Thomson Safari, July 2011

Click here to view the embedded video.

As you can see, once a leopard has made a successful kill, they must act quickly to protect it from thieving predators. The scent of this impala has likely already caught the attention of nearby predators such as lions, which are significantly larger than leopards, or a clan of hyenas, which would outnumber and overtake this solitary cat. In order to protect their meal, leopards will drag their kill high into tree branches – an amazing feat of strength and coordination when you consider a full grown impala can weigh over 150 lbs.

Our new catalog for the 2012-2013 season is hot off the presses!
Call us for your copy today!

A hallmark of the Thomson operations is integrity.  Every step of the safari experience is absolutely open and honest.  There are no hidden fees or expectations.  No one has shy agendas or any devious motives.

The client is first in the consideration of the staff in the USA and in Tanzania.  Honesty and transparency are obvious in all dealings and communications, from ticket purchases to laundry bills in the nyumbas.  This is rare and wonderful!

Judith & John H.
Private Thomson Safari, March 2011

In honor of Freddie Mercury’s 65^th birthday, today’s Google doodle (pictured above) has pulled out all the stops with an animated tribute to the late rock legend (play the animation below). What does this have to do with Tanzania? He was born Faroukh Bulsara on Tanzania’s picturesque archipelago, Zanzibar.

Click here to view the embedded video.

Thank you for making our honeymoon trek unforgettable! Reaching the summit was such a meaningful and inspirational way for Scott and I to start our lives together. If we only could have the Thomson guides and support crew to help us through all of  life’s peaks and valleys….

To the whole Thomson team in Watertown AND Tanzania – asante sana!

Lauren &  Scott
Kilimanjaro Grand Traverse Route & Safari, June 2011

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Professional photographer and trip leader, Randy Hanna, witnessed a great showing of the wildebeest migration crossing the Mara River yesterday. While camped at Kogakuria, our northern Serengeti camp, he reported:

“Thousands of wildebeests decided to cross in a manner that could best be described as wild chaos and we were expertly positioned to capture it all…It was like having our own private movie preview.”

Visit Randy’s blog for more details on this river crossing and daily reports from the bush

The Maasai Women’s Collaborative was fabulous and the Boma visit too!  Arnold was super professional and a terrific source of information and I always felt like he had everything totally under control.  I can’t really imagine a better head guide or group leader. Samson was also a joy to be around.  He was pleasant, happy, professional, experienced and always glad to help out.

Karen W.
Signature Thomson Safari, February 2011

The sky at night in Africa is like nothing we see in the US.  All those millions and millions of stars is just breathtaking. The Milky Way forms a beautiful swathe through the heavens and one could spend the entire night just watching the stars go by.  Ken, being from New York City, had never seen anything like this before and was quite excited when he saw his first satellite tonight.

The above is an excerpt from Jas M.’s blog.
For more, visit his blog documenting his trek on the Grand Traverse Route.

I had a most wonderful time on my Tanzanian Highlights Safari! It truly was the trip of a lifetime. I still can’t believe all the things I saw, experienced and the people I met. My guides Willie, Mohamed and Kileo could not have been more knowledgeable, professional, accommodating and just really nice people. I miss them already.

I also found the Tanzanian Balloon Company a fantastic group of people and when the balloon lifted us above the Serengeti plains, I had tears in my eyes. It was so emotional and just the feeling that washes over you when you have had a lifelong dream fulfilled.

I truly believe that I’ve left my heart somewhere in the Serengeti – what a magical place. It was a dream come true. There were just so many boxes checked on this journey. I feel very completed.

Sonya N.
Highlights of Tanzania Safari, June 2011

It was such a life changing journey that it’s hard to articulate the impact it has had, and will have, on my life. I know I speak for our entire group when I say that Thomson exceeded our expectations in every way. From start to finish, the entire journey was outstanding. The most memorable part of the journey was our guides and porters.  They were so giving of their time, energy, knowledge and took care of us every step of the way. They got us to the top!

I love Tanzania and the philosophy behind Thomson so much I wish I could go back and be a part of the Thomson team.

Amanda L.
Kilimanjaro Western Approach Route & Safari, July 2011

We had an amazing trip.  Words just don’t do it justice.  I took almost 2000 pictures.  We saw just about all the big animals on the first day in Tarangire.

The staff is superb, everyone is warm, welcoming and friendly.  The chefs were outstanding,  I think the soups were my favorite.

We realized how spoiled we were with the guides.  Joe and I spent a day in Kenya and the guide we had that day didn’t compare to the skills of Mustapha, Leonard and Kao.  They were a great team and we had such fun with them all.

We have decided that we will go again.  It was an experience that everyone should have.  I was brought to tears several times.  And goosebumps on my arms too!!

Christine P.
Signature Thomson Safari, July 2011

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The gear, single tent, and food were so beyond what I imagined. I realize that I was extremely fortunate to have climbed Kili with Thomson Safaris and that this is not the typical experience on the mountain.

I am also so thankful for the opportunity to have witnessed the work that everyone does on the mountain. I now can better understand the extent of the hard work that the mountain crew performs. I have nothing but high praises for the quality of work and care that was provided for me. Nashukuru sana (I am very grateful)!

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Karen Valenti, Program Manager
Kilimanjaro Porters Assistance Project – Moshi, Tanzania

Karen monitors activities with the Partner for Responsible Travel Program. She is also Acting Director of IMEC in Moshi, Tanzania.

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Kumbi was absolutely amazing – I think he enjoyed the trip as much as us! We saw 2 (not 1) kills, a chase (he was as pleased that the baby escaped as we were), we were mere feet from a lion pride feasting, and he found a dung beetle at 30-40 kilometers per hour!  He explained culture, animals, plants and always made sure we were learning more.

Michael & Wendy S.
Private Thomson Safari, February 2011

Emily Martin, Thomson Safaris staffer, recounts a powerful moment during her safari last month.

Like many first time travelers, I was initially drawn to Tanzania because of its phenomenal wildlife populations. You often hear stories of lion kills, cheetahs running, huge herds of wildebeest and zebra, leopard sightings, and the possibility of checking the Big 5 off your safari checklist. With these images ingrained in my mind, I left for Tanzania in 2006 with dreams of seeing it all. While I came away with more than my share of stories, it was not the animals that touched me the most. It was the people.

When I found out that I was going to join the Signature Thomson Safari in May, I was most looking forward to the Maasai visit portion of the trip. Although I have spent a considerable amount of time in Tanzania, I hadn’t yet traveled with Thomson and had the opportunity to meet the Maasai in their local setting. The Maasai I had met had either left their bomas long ago to live in the cities or were part of a scheduled visit along well-traveled paths teeming with tourists, which I’ve found can feel a bit contrived and inauthentic.

One day during the Signature Thomson Safari last May, my eight safari companions and I got into our Land Rovers and took off for what we were told was an unscheduled, spontaneous village visit. As we approached the village, dozens of kids ran as fast as they could beside our vehicle smiling, laughing and waving at us. As we got out of the vehicle, we saw a group of Maasai boys, about 30-40 strong, gathering on the outskirts of the boma.

Maasai woman and son in front of the boma she is building to honor her son`s achievement.

Maasai women singing and chanting during the ceremony. The festivities warranted full regalia, jewelry and face paint for these proud mothers.

Warrior marching in for the start of the ceremony.

Warriors watching the jumping circle, admiring and laughing at the various attempts by their peers to jump the highest.

Young warrior smiling

Maasai woman singing with young son on her back.

Young Maasai warriors marching in to join their mothers in song and celebration.

Warrior preparing to show off his jumping skills in the circle.

Maasai women chanting before being joined by the young warriors.

Maasai women singing to their sons in honor of their impending inititations.

As we walked into the main area of the boma, a group of 20 women started singing, jumping and laughing as if on cue. We naively assumed they were singing a welcome song for us. After several minutes, the group of boys began dancing slowly towards the women to the deep, rumbling beat of a make-shift horn crafted from a plastic pipe. The women began to move towards them and the two groups combined creating one harmonious chant. Everyone in the village was looking on, clapping and singing – very few of the Maasai paid any attention to us standing there watching. At this point, we were in complete awe, and passed a look around to one another that said “this was definitely not planned for us”.

Our Thomson guide, James (who is Maasai), explained that we had stumbled upon a rite of passage ceremony for the communities’ young generation of warriors. We quickly came to realize the women were not singing for our benefit; the women were singing to the warriors, their sons, in honor of their impending initiations. The warriors were showing off their skills by forming a circle and jumping, and they were celebrating their long journey to this point.

James further explained that this ceremony marked the boys’ transition into adulthood as well as a transition to move into a new manyatta (group of huts) specially built by their mothers. In the near future, once warrior training was complete, another ceremony was to take place where the mothers shave their sons’ long, braided hair to officially mark the warriors’ transition into the category of elders.

We couldn’t believe we had the opportunity to experience this rare, intimate moment. The raw emotion that the mothers and warriors displayed – love, devotion, pride and happiness – moved each of us. Though we could not communicate directly or speak Maa, we had been present for something more powerful than words can describe. What surprised me the most was that we were not looked at as unwelcome visitors, instead we were welcomed into the ceremony as part of the community. This is the “karibu spirit” that Tanzanians embody, regardless of tribe. This is the reason I love returning to Tanzania year after year.

Our bodies and luggage arrived back home but our spirits are still there!

Our trip was absolutely flawless.  Our two guides, Abu and Phanuel, were simply too wonderful for words – knowledgeable, well-organized, patient, humorous, friendly, attentive and entirely professional.  We were always amazed at how deft they are at multi-tasking: driving, scouting, finding the most camouflaged animal in the distance, answering every question, even those they had answered time and time again, with patience and humor!  Like the excellent teachers they are, they  seem to have eyes and ears in the back of their heads; every time one of us raised our camera, they were willing to stop.

Our group of eight was just the right size and we all got along very well. The camps were comfortable and spotlessly clean, the Land Rovers far more comfortable than we anticipated, and the food was plentiful (we loved the variety of fruits and vegetables at the evening meals!).

We really appreciate the ease and professionalism of every contact we had with you before our trip – forthright answers to our initial questions and no gimmicky high pressure sales, prompt responses to our many questions, your patience and the enthusiasm you displayed. Thomson is lucky to have you all.

I’ve already recommended Thomson and will continue to do so to anyone who shows even the slightest interest!

Warmly, Pat
P.S. At the breakfast following the balloon excursion, we had an opportunity to mingle with people traveling with other tour operators…we definitely had the best in Thomson!

Pat T.
Highlights of Tanzania Safari, September 2010

We took our kids on safari with Thomson a decade ago and we all still talk about it as one of our best, best family vacations.  Today my kids have moved on; they’re in college and grad school. But the memories are even more precious in retrospect.

If anyone on the fence about a family trip to Africa, I’d say: Don’t wait, go now. In the blink of an eye, the kids will be gone. You’ll never regret the money you spent, you will regret the lost opportunity when they’ve left home.

Marybeth Bond
Author, National Geographic Books
Blogger, GutsyTraveler.com

The food was mind blowing.  Lasagna, Mexican food, ugali – all of it!

Heather S.
Kilimanjaro Grand Traverse Route & Safari, February 2011

We chose to travel with Thomson Safaris due to the immediate response to request for information and attention to detail.  I started inquiring 3 years ago and you continually sent information which was well-organized and professional.

Being our first exposure to a Nyumba I was pleasantly surprised. The “camping” far exceeded our expectations and the staff was excellent. Their English was very good.

I can’t speak highly enough about our guide, Kumbi.  He is so knowledgeable, found so many animals.  I thought the first day was unmatchable however; each day was better and better.  I was so impressed, in fact, for our next trip we all want Kumbi!  He just seemed superior and we can’t say enough about his abilities, behavior, knowledge and personality.  We love Kumbi!

We compared our Land Rover to other vehicles in the parks and felt ours was superior!  We were very pleased.

We were also pleased at how Thomson was actively involved in the communities it touched and were strongly impressed by Thomson’s ethics and how others talked about the company.

Lisa & Andy P.
Private Thomson Safari, February 2011

We love the entire guiding team at Thomson, but you don’t have to take our word for it.  Our guests consistently rave about them, and we are always updating The Buzz on this blog to share those glowing reviews with you.

Meet just a few of our head guides in the videos below – Leonard, Abu, Phanuel and Robert.  (And meet them in real life when you come to Tanzania!)

Press play to watch all four videos OR
Mouse over the video and select a specific clip OR
Visit our YouTube Channel.

Click here to read The Buzz for feedback about our guides.
Select the radial button for “Safari Only” and the check box for “Guides”.

A head guide must possess at least three important skills or elements of personality, not necessarily in any order of importance:  He must have management skills. There are things that can arise that are out of his control to prevent, like nails in the road to flatten tires, etc.  How he manages such events is what sets him apart. Leonard never lets problems land on his guests.  He works hard and long if that’s what it takes to ensure that the impact falls on him, not us.  He does it with incredibly good humor.  The number of skills he possesses just amazes me.

He must also possess knowledge about the plants, animals and the terrain so that his guests can learn, not just observe.  No need to tell you that Leonard is well endowed in that department.

The last but not least is that good humor I referred to above.  Leonard is so much fun and has so much warmth and personality that I cannot imagine going with anyone else.  We all love Leonard and Justo.  We laughed every step of the way.

The private nature refuge is so different now than when we first visited.  It’s like it’s all grown up now, a permanent camp.  It is an undeniably beautiful place.  It gripped the imagination of our companions as it did ours again.

We remembered so many people & some of them remembered us as well.  At every camp, people were kind and generous with us.

Helen P.
Private Thomson Safari, February 2011

This is Helen’s second safari with Thomson. Her first trip with Thomson Safaris was in 2009.

Everyone on the trek, safari and on transfers were outstanding.  They surpassed my expectations on friendliness and devotion.  Since I was a single woman traveling alone it was important for me to feel safe.  I always did!  I always felt protected.  My safety was a priority for all guides and my porters!  No one from Thomson Safaris was average – everyone went beyond what I expected.

Bea P.
Kilimanjaro Western Approach Route & Safari, Feb 2011

Mountain gorillas inhabit two regions in the world about 30 miles apart: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in Uganda and the Virungas region, which includes Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in Uganda and Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Hundreds of tourists trek through the mountains of these national parks each year to observe mountain gorillas, which live in groups of about 11 members. Each group consists of a silverback dominant male(s), named for the thick, silver hair found on their backs upon maturation; younger black-back males; females and their offspring.

While it is true that dominant males – who weigh in at 350 lbs. and can stand at an intimidating 6 feet tall – will fight one another to the death in order to protect their groups, mountain gorillas are actually shy and docile animals. Observing mountain gorillas in their natural habitat has proven to be a very special encounter for those lucky enough to experience it.

3-day old gorilla twins, photographed by Thomson Safaris guests,
Deborah, Stephen and Rebekah.


Our guests were some of the lucky few to do so. Following their Thomson Safari through northern Tanzania, Deborah, Stephen and Rebekah Yurco continued on a Thomson gorilla trekking extension to Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park. During their trek, they were very fortunate to find Ruvumu, who had delivered her twins just 3 days earlier. Deborah shares the details of her memorable sighting:

“We learned upon our arrival in Rwanda that twin baby gorillas had just arrived for the impressive band known as the Susa Group. With three silverbacks and 6 yr old twins already a part of this family, we didn’t care how far nor how hard we had to climb; we only knew that we had to get there to see these unique creatures for ourselves. Two and half hours and 3000 feet later, we received our reward. Close up and personal views of these precious babies!”

Want to experience mountain gorilla trekking for yourself? Call us!
Read more about mountain gorillas and gorilla conservation

It was really a great trip. We were fortunate, the migration was ON! Lots of zebras and wildebeest.  We saw a lion kill literally six feet from us, the next day, we saw 3 kills in 25 minutes.

The camps were amazing. How do they serve food like that in the middle of nowhere? The last hotel was really something – elephants at the swimming pool!

The Serengeti is pure magic.

Richard A.
Africa Through the Lens, March 2011

The race route begins and ends in a very lively Moshi Stadium, where there are many fans, vendors and live music. The route takes the runners out of the stadium and into the town where they pass through villages and banana and coffee plantations before heading gradually uphill to Mweka though the forested foothills of Mount Kilimanjaro. Many of the runners are inspired by the view of Kilimanjaro’s peak, which can be seen throughout the race route.

Over 6,000 runners registered for the races this year, the majority of which hailed from Tanzania and Kenya. There were, however, many international racers such as South African, Richard Goodhead, who ran from Cape Town to Moshi in just over 140 days (that’s a marathon/day!). As if that wasn’t achievement enough, Goodhead went on to compete in the marathon and then climbed to Mt. Kilimanjaro’s summit! Another international runner included our very own Thomson trekker, Meghan Fischer. Fischer, an avid marathoner, ran a fantastic race – finishing in an impressive 24^th place, she was the first non-African woman to cross the half-marathon finish line. Meghan shares her experiences below:

I ran the race the day before we started our trek up Kilimanjaro. Even though the Kili trek and safari were both so incredible, I have to say that the race was my favorite part of the trip. What I loved about the half marathon was that I really felt part of the African culture. I have been running long distance races since high school, so I have a deep respect for the many amazing marathon runners from Kenya, Ethiopia, etc. I really enjoyed being on their turf, for once, and comparing their races to American marathons.

It was really exciting to see all of the runners at the race start. All of the runners were incredibly welcoming. It really was a party atmosphere before the race even started.

The first half of the race was uphill toward the mountain. It was a steady uphill climb, but many locals came out and cheered us on. The second half of the race was running back down the roads we had run up, so it was a very fast finish.

I ended up being the 24^th female to finish the half and the first non-African woman to finish. It was so much fun and such a beautiful setting for the race. I loved that throughout my run I could look to the summit of Kili and know that I would be there in a few days : )  I would highly recommend this race to all of my runner friends. I hope to someday do the Victoria Falls Half Marathon, too!


Thomson Safari guides and porters deserve credit for getting us up and down the mountain. CSDW gave porters plenty of PUR for their families. – Dr. Greg Allgood (via Twitter)

Humanitarian, Dr. Greg Allgood, traveled with Thomson Safaris on MTV’s Summit on the Summit Kilimanjaro trek. Dr. Allgood travels around the world distributing PUR packets, which turns dirty water into clean, drinkable water, helping to prevent illness and save lives every day. Thus far, he and his partners have delivered more than three billion liters of clean drinking water for children and their families in more than 60 developing nations.

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Watch footage from MTV’s Summit on the Summit trek below.

Click here to view the embedded video.

See more photos and read about the trek from the perspective of the celebrity climbers on the Summit on the Summit blog.

I began to lose myself at the private nature refuge – what a gem – the camp, the setting and the kind people all contributed to my experience of losing track of time – the burdens of civilization vanished and were replaced by leopard track and giraffe scat – now that’s magic!!  I also had the opportunity to spend some time talking to the local wildlife scout as we walked along the refuge.  He is quite an amazing, bright, industrious young man who is dedicated to his people, the land and animals and so grateful for his job with Thomson.

The last night in camp we each talked about our most significant memory.  For me it was meeting the children and the teachers at the schools.  My heart was filled with a sense of community and cohesion that brings about real joy.

At the airport in Denver on the evening I returned, a woman with 3 little children asked me where I had been.  I told her Africa.  She looked at me and said “You left a piece of your heart there didn’t you?” and I replied “If you don’t leave a piece of your heart in Africa then you’re not paying attention.”

So thank you Thomson for such a memorable experience.

Christina E.
Signature Thomson Safari, February 2011

We have just returned from a month long trip to Namibia, Botswana and Zambia. During our travels, we spoke often of our Thomson Safari and the quality of our experience. It was the perfect introduction to Africa and we still appreciate the high level of service that you provided. The fact that you have your own staff and vehicles makes a tremendous difference. Because your naturalist/guides are Tanzanian, and have years of experience, they are well acquainted with the wildlife and other features of the areas through which your safaris travel.

On this second trip to Africa, we wanted to explore beyond Tanzania, so we traveled with a reputable company who had to rely on services provided by a South African contractor, and, believe me, the service just didn’t measure up. The guide was South African, not a citizen of the countries in which we were traveling, and that made a difference, too. The vehicles? Well, let’s just say they weren’t like yours.

We continue to recommend Thomson to people we meet on our various travels. You’re the best!

Best wishes to all at Thomson,
Susan P.

Watch the video below for his tips, camera recommendations and a slideshow of some of our favorite Andy Biggs’ images shot in Tanzania (on a Thomson Safari, of course!).



Visit msnbc.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy

I have owned and driven Land Rovers in East Africa as a Peace Corps volunteer and Baja, California much of my life.  We owned Atlantic British Export here in the United States for years (the North American source for Land Rover and Range Rover parts) and had never seen a safari modification like Thomson’s with the higher rear seat sections, the taller windows and windshield. Wow!!  What a difference from a passenger’s point of view!!  Compared to any of the other safari machines out there, the visibility toward the horizon to the front and sides…from any of the back seats is unsurpassed.

Even my oldest daughter who was notorious for car sickness never had a problem on any of the rough roads.  We got a chance to ride in another (non-Thomson) safari vehicle on the way to the balloon ride in the Serengeti and were immediately reminded of how we had to bend over at the neck from the back seats in order to see around the driver’s head and out the wind shield.  The Thomson Rovers are by far the best maintained and set-up machines on the road…and the drivers are incredible too!   Nzuri kabissa!

Eric A.
Classic Thomson Safari, July 2008

Rick and Judi opened the lecture portion of the night by sharing their 30 year journey as one of the first operators in Tanzania’s fledgling tourism industry. Photos from their personal archives not only gave guests an occasional chuckle but also gave them a glimpse of how much Tanzania and its tourism industry has grown.

Guests were also treated to a lecture from Dr. Farish Jenkins, Harvard professor of zoology and longtime Thomson Safaris trip leader, who spoke about the future of African wildlife in an ever-changing world. He was joined by Emmanuel Kileo, a Thomson Safaris’ head guide, who added his first-hand field accounts to support Dr. Jenkins’ data.

Click here to view the embedded video.

Next on the agenda was a Focus on Tanzanian Communities (FoTZC) board member who spoke about women’s empowerment and community development in her native country of Tanzania. She provided examples of several projects completed by FoTZC and Thomson Safaris in the past year to benefit communities around the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Conservation Area.

Finally a key manager from Thomson’s Arusha office, spoke about the importance of Tanzanians supporting their own people and determining their own destinies. She also spoke movingly about working for a company that shares her ethics and her love for Tanzania.

Judi topped it all off with a champagne toast to Tanzania and a nod to the next 30 years!

Since the evening was sponsored by Thomson, all the proceeds from the silent auction went straight to FoTZC and a Maasai women’s collaborative, whose crafts were showcased along with generous donations from our favorite wildlife photographers Andy Biggs and Randy Hanna, and paintings by Tanzanian artists Peter Ray, Robert Aswani, Riziki Kateya and Louise Hill.  In total, $10,000 was raised!

Thank you to all who attended for making it an unforgettable night…Thanks to those who would have loved to attend, but lent their support from afar…and thanks to Tanzania for three decades of friendship, collaboration and adventure.

We see a lot that day. There are giraffes so close to the road that if they choose to bend their long necks in our direction, we would almost be able to touch their heads. We see enormous herds of wildebeest, mixed with zebra, impala, and gazelle – especially the variety known as Thomson’s gazelle.

…but the day has something else in store for us. As we pass by some zebras walking through the high yellow grass, Harrison stops the Land Rover. They are three adults and one foal. We wonder why he has stopped. We have seen plenty of zebra and they were a lot closer to us than these four.

While peering through his binoculars, Harrison utters the word, “lion.” We look, but we see no lion. We tell him so. “Yes,” he says. “He is lying in the grass.” We continue to scan the high grass. “Where?” we ask. “Straight ahead.” he says. “You can see the tips of his ears.”

And yes. There is the slightest bit of movement, as the lion’s head begins to rise out of the grass, with his eyes trained on the zebras, which are now walking in single file, with the foal at the end. The lion is between us and them. We watch as the line comes to a halt.

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The above is an excerpt from Bruce C.’s blog.
Bruce and his wife, Elodia, traveled with Thomson Safaris in October 2010 on a Signature Thomson Safari.
Read the full story of this day on safari with Thomson.

Click here to view the embedded video.

Today, head guide, Emmanuel Kileo, who is mid-way through his two-week adventure in the US, is on his way to Texas via New York City with our photography trip leader, Andy Biggs.

Andy reported, “NYC is blowing his mind! We are having a blast together.  I took him to Tribeca and SoHo last night. Rockefeller Plaza and Times Square today. Ran into Kathie Lee on the street and said I will see her on the show in 2 weeks. And right now we are in the 7th row at The Lion King. Smiles on his face!!!!”

Watch Andy on NBC's TODAY Show with Kathie Lee and Hoda on May 24th!

To all at Thomson Safaris,

I realized I never personally wrote to thank you for the amazing experience I had during our trip to Tanzania last winter. Not only did we accomplish our goal of reaching the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro with the entire team including our two challenged athletes, Erica Davis and Tara Butcher, but we were looked after like kings and queens by Thomson Safaris staff. Every part of our trip was so well-planned that we hardly noticed we were traveling with two wheelchairs and about twice as much luggage as everyone else!

Special acclaim must go to our porters and guides for our trek up the mountain. Their unflagging energy, enthusiasm and support for what I am sure looked to them like a very strange endeavor was amazing. Without them we would not have made it to the top and back down again in one piece. I know that Derek Gates as thanked you, but I felt another thank you would not be out of place.

Once again, thank you for your support of the Through the Roof trip and documentary. I hope that I will be able to return to Africa with Thomson Safaris – probably without the wheelchairs and film crews – in the future for another amazing experience!

Yours sincerely,
Penthea Crozier, CEO, C.H.E.K Institute

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Purchase the Through the Roof DVD, a movie documenting the trek of the first female paraplegic to summit Mount Kilimanjaro!

Read the daily dispatches from the mountain on the Through the Roof blog.

For an unrivaled adventure to the Roof of Africa, I recommend Thomson Safaris.

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David Breashears,
Renowned Mountaineer, 5-time Everest Summiter, Filmmaker of Storm Over Everest and IMAX feature, Kilimanjaro: To the Roof of Africa

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“In his book “Kissing Kilimanjaro”, Daniel Dorr states that to successfully climb Kilimanjaro one needs to have three full buckets: fitness, attitude, and altitude. Thanks, Fit For Trips, for filling my fitness bucket.

The program was well suited for one such as me who is not big on working out in the gym. The home version gave me the level of fitness I needed to climb the mountain. I never had to worry if my muscles would work for me…just focused on breathing!”

I’ll add that I described the Fit For Trips program to the group at the beginning of the climb.  One of the members of the group said, “you trained for this?”  Although she was very fit, she wished she had done the “right kind” of training because her legs were screaming by the end of the trip. She has since taken a keen interest in the Fit For Trips program.

Jane S.
Kilimanjaro Western Approach Route, March 2011

Read more about Fit For Trips in our 2-part blog series,
Training for Kilimanjaro Part 1 and Part 2.

Click here to view the embedded video.

During the film’s opening week, Disneynature will donate $.20/ticket to African Wildlife Foundation (AWF) to save the savanna. Get tickets and see show times for your area here.

Indeed I had a wonderful trip. Although this was the third time to Tanzania with Andy and Thomson,  it is still an experience I will not forget.

I appreciate the comfort of the lodges with flushing toilets but still prefer the Nyumbas. It is quite an experience lying in your tent and listening at the laughing of the hyenas, roaring of the lions and barking of the zebras during the night.

We had a wonderful group and Andy is a great guy. He is an amiable group leader, an excellent teacher and a great entertainer. The guides and the camp staff were so friendly and helpful. I have really enjoyed it.

Arthur L.
Africa Through the Lens, February 2011

Kilimanjaro Climb:
I can honestly say that I am very happy that we chose to do this project with Thomson. From the first phone call through all the details and logistics involved your team was a genuine pleasure to work with. My primary contacts, Michael and Katie were knowledgeable, and very professional, always prompt in returning calls and answering questions. They were truly excellent to work with. I know our project was a bit of a challenge, but it all ran exceptional smoothly with their help and guidance.

The guides were excellent, and the food was the best I have ever had under such difficult field conditions. We (amazingly) managed to put all 24 team members on the summit! Our research project was quite a success, and the Thomson staff was very accommodating throughout the project.

Safari:
In my opinion, having traveled quite a bit, the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater are among the Wonders of the World. This is world class animal habitat and is more spectacular in many ways than the Galapagos. When I think of all the families that travel to places like Disney World year after year, it seems like such a waste. If they saved up for a year or two they could visit Tanzania and have a genuine, rock-your-world, experience of a lifetime. I can’t think of a more interesting, or more valuable and educational place to visit and take your kids.

This was an excellent experience for all involved. I would definitely recommend Thomson, and would use Thomson again for any project in Tanzania.

Many thanks!

Scott Hamilton, Expedition Leader & Research Study Coordinator
East Africa High Altitude Research Expedition

Thomson Safaris led this 24-member biomedical research team
to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. During the trek, the team conducted
high altitude physiology research.

Q: Do you think anyone can make it to the summit?
A: In general, any healthy person can make it to the summit.  The formula is rather simple: train properly + ample acclimatization time + a determined attitude = summit success.

It is difficult to quantify the parts of the equation; you might not be in good shape but have the mental toughness needed for a successful summit, or you might be in incredible shape but need support to deal with the mental rigors of the final summit push. Train in both areas now, and your Thomson Kilimanjaro guide will be with you, encouraging you from first step to summit.

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Q: What are the top 3 exercises you recommend to train for Kili?
A:

Click here to view the embedded video.

Give us a call; as a Thomson Trekker, you’ll receive 25% off
of your personalized Fit For Trips training program!

Of all the memories of the animals we saw, the other families we met, and the wonderful agenda that Thomson put together for us, the one thing that made the trip really spectacular was that we saw Tanzania with native Tanzanians, not professional guides who learned about the country from travel guides or training sessions.

They told us about or showed us their homes, their schools, their politics and the natural beauty of their country in a way that made us understand and appreciate the people in Tanzania.

I have traveled to many countries of the world but I have never come away with a feeling of having seen the country through the eyes of the people who live there like I did on this trip. It was wonderful for me as an adult, and I am so thankful that my grandson, as well as the other children on the trip, was able to have such a special cultural experience. Trips like this can change our perspective of the world and open our minds and hearts to the many wonderful people from the different cultures of the world.

Thanks again for a great trip!
Ann M.
Tanzania Family Safari, July 2008

To get the low-down on reaching great heights, we had a Q&A session with Marcus Shapiro, the founder and CEO of Fit For Trips:

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Q: What are some of the concerns your clients have before climbing Kilimanjaro?
A: I commonly get asked about altitude. Although altitude issues can affect anyone, being properly fit can help Kili climbers deal with many of the discomforts associated with high altitude symptoms.

Simply making it to the summit is another common concern. In brief, climbing stairs, treadmill work, specific ‘trail fitness’ resistance training exercises and hiking are essential to a successful summit.

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Q: What is the most important thing to remember while training?
A: Always be aware of how your body is adapting to the training demands. Are you constantly feeling tired and sore? If so, then you might be over-training and need to take steps to decrease your training intensity or volume. Once you have recovered, you can resume training in smaller doses. However, doing so will likely increase the amount of time needed to become properly fit for your trek. This is why it is helpful to start training in advance – 12+ weeks – of your departure date. Travelers who are already fit can be aggressive and ramp up the training quickly in the pre-departure phase, say eight weeks prior to departing.

Q: What is your background in personal training?
A: My degree in athletic training from the University of Alabama coupled with my Certified Strength & Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) designation is an unusual combination but significant in the world of personal training. My athletic training education enhanced my ability to work with clients who have sustained orthopedic injuries. The CSCS designation – prevalent in collegiate, professional and Olympic conditioning coaches – ensures that clients receive the most progressive and up-to-date training techniques. I am trusted by my colleagues in physical therapy who refer to me their discharged patients.

I launched the online fitness company, Fit For Trips, with Thomson Safaris as the first partner in 2009.  I hold Thomson near and dear to my heart for trusting me with their guests.

My interests and experience go way beyond the world’s highest peaks. I am also an active father of two boys, the inventor of a portable dry-land training device for paddlers and creator of virtual software for personal training.

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Next week, in part 2 of this post, Marcus will share his top 3 recommended exercises to prepare for Kilimanjaro.

Click here to view the embedded video.

My Kilimanjaro experience was superb and I know that much of the reason for this experience being so wonderful was because of the decision I made to go with Thomson Safaris.  I researched other companies for my Kilimanjaro trip but I would always return to Thomson because of its reputation.  I obviously made the right decision and would confidently recommend Thomson to anyone else.

Dan H.
Kilimanjaro Western Approach Route, March 2011

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Dan blogged all the way up to Kilimanjaro’s summit last month!
Watch more of Dan’s video dispatches and read his daily Kili trekking journal here.

We had the best time!  I’ll admit right now:  I cried when we arrived at Tarangire National Park and the first thing I saw was a herd of elephants probably 40 strong. I love elephants and was so worried that I might not see “enough” of them.  Ha!  We saw close to 1800 of the 2000 that are in the park.  We also saw them at Ngorongoro Crater and in the Serengeti.

I told Robert that I really wanted to see a Leopard…well, I saw FIVE leopards and one of them was a mama with two little cubs.

Everything went seamlessly, all our transfers were smooth and pleasant – Thomson knows how to deliver a fantastic journey! Thank you for all your help in making my dream come true, it was so magical for me.

Annie M.
Tanzania Discovery Safari, February 2011

Wow, what can we say – we had the most fantastic safari trip imaginable! Words, pictures, and videos will never be able to describe the wonder that we experienced in Tanzania and the Serengeti.

The Thomson touch was just terrific – the Nyumbas, the guides, the camp staff, the food, the attention to detail, everything … just fantastic. At the camps,  out on the game drives, everywhere – we all agreed that in some subtle way we always felt that we were being treated “more special” (is there such a phrase?) than any of the other tour groups that we encountered. You’ve got a winning formula.

And we owe you a special thanks for the revisions to create our private safari. At each stop, we thought that we had experienced the best that there was to offer, yet each day somehow miraculously outdid the previous day and by a wide margin. We can’t wait to do it again but feel that it will be hard to top the experience of our first trip.

Thank you, thank you, thank you.
Eric B.
Private Thomson Safari,  March 2011

We just can’t say enough good things about Thomson’s support and organizational skills on the trek.  Our guides, Sunday, Prosper, Simon and Calvin, were the main reason for our success but the porters and cook/waiters who made sure we had the food/energy etc. to get through each day were of critical importance.

Many, many other trekkers around us did not reach the top and I attribute the difference to Thomson’s staff.  We liked the service from office to field.  It was timely, open & honest.

After the trek, I saw a book in the gift shop called something like Hiking Kilimanjaro at 70.  Of course, I was 67 during the trek and turned 68 a few days later, but I said I didn’t need to buy that book.  All you have to do to reach the Uhuru Peak is go with Thomson!

Allan & Dorothy R.
Kilimanjaro Western Approach Route, January 2011

The safari was AMAZING.  Beyond amazing.  There are just no words.  I expected to see phenomenal landscapes and wildlife but what I didn’t expect was the wonderfully magnificent Thomson folks that we encountered EVERY STEP OF THE WAY (starting with Michael stateside).

The team in Tanzania was not only more than accommodating, they were enthusiastic and knowledgeable, possessing a great sense of humor and spirit, patience with teaching Swahili, and a great many other talents. I felt like I was among family throughout the whole trip.  I was sad to move from location to location leaving behind new friends we were just getting to know at the campsites and the nature refuge.

The conservation work that Thomson does in Tanzania is certainly commendable and important, but the team of people you have gathered and empowered to show us the riches of their country speaks volumes about Thomson’s spirit and values. Thank you for the opportunity to be part of something so grand.  I will come back again and refer many others.

Kwaheri for now, Paloma S.
Explorer’s Safari, July 2009

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“I was really impressed with how Thomson Safaris managed all of the logistics in a highly professional manner. Everything was always working, everything was always on time, and the food was great. I would recommend Thomson Safaris in a heartbeat.” – Jimmy Chin

Famed expedition climber and photographer, Jimmy Chin, traveled with Thomson Safaris on MTV’s Summit on the Summit Kilimanjaro trek and spoke to Thomson about it in a podcast. Jimmy Chin is also a North Face Athlete and a National Geographic Emerging Explorer.

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Watch footage from MTV’s Summit on the Summit trek below.

Click here to view the embedded video.

See more photos and read about the trek from the perspective of the celebrity climbers on the Summit on the Summit blog.

Michael and his hoop have been spotted all over the world, from 282′ below sea level in Death Valley to the heights of 19,340′ atop Kilimanjaro. He has shared his hula hooping enthusiasm and brought smiles to Kilimanjaro porters, the Batwa people of Uganda and even Buddhist monks.

The video below features his latest traveling hula hoop adventure at a primary school in Arusha, Tanzania. Be sure to watch the impressive hula hooping techniques of the school children!

Click here to view the embedded video.

I recently returned from my climb of Mt Kilimanjaro with Thomson Safaris and it was AWESOME. It was just what I wanted: an adventure of a lifetime. I would like to take this opportunity to thank the whole crew of Thomson for a wonderful experience.

The entire staff was wonderful, the following three men stand out in my mind as exceptional:
One of the associate guides, Polite, was particularly wonderful. He was diligent regarding our welfare, tactful and always helpful. He had humor, skill and strength. While these are all qualities possessed by all the associate guides I met he, nevertheless, stood out from the others.

My porter, Godfrey, was warm, friendly and very helpful. When I was slow returning to camp he came out and carried my back pack for me. Everything was always set up for me just as I wanted it.

Finally our medical porter, Aaron, (carried oxygen and medical supplies) simply rose above his duties taking on the chores and helpfulness of an associate guide when appropriate. He was awesome.

Thanks to all who made my experience so wonderful!!!

Wayne T.
Kilimanjaro Western Approach Route, February 2011

Andy sent us an update on where he found the migration and where they might be heading. See below.

On Feb 24, we saw a nice congregation of wildebeest and zebra in and around the Gol Kopjes on the southeastern short grass plains, and when I returned to the area on March 5 the migration had moved mostly into the areas south of Ndutu. The game around Ndutu, especially in the swamps to the west, was full of migratory animals, as well as all three big cat species.

We did search for larger herds to the north, and finally found a large pocket west of Makoma Hill. When we moved camp to the central Serengeti, an extremely large chunk of the herds were definitely there. We saw them pouring into Seronera from the west, and we spent the last few days (March 9 – 13) only photographing the big herds in and around Seronera. We even witnessed a pride of lions with 4 successful wildebeest hunts in a 24 hour period. 3 of the hunts were within a 20 minute period at a single water source. It was absolutely amazing, and my travelers were excited to witness such unique sightings.

I believe the migration is split between the southern short grass plains and the central Seronera valley, and if it rains heavily in the next week we may see the migration congregate again down in the south.

Willie began his employment at Thomson Safaris as a mechanic, and with a thirst for knowledge, he quickly found himself in new roles leading up to the position of head guide. His background in mechanics proved to be a great pairing to his guiding skills; our guests often commented about his driving expertise and the care and pride he took in his Land Rover. More than that, Willie’s enthusiasm for his country and its wildlife is infectious, which is an invaluable asset to any safari experience.

Kumbi Salim, a fellow head guide and long-time friend of Willie’s, said “When I joined Thomson Safaris in 1987, Kissanga became like a teacher for me and so many others. He is a wonderful person, very friendly, and peaceful. He also happens to be an amazing mechanic and guide and he became a great mentor for us all.”

Willie’s dedication and longevity with Thomson Safaris was celebrated at a recent retirement party at our headquarters in Arusha.

We thank you for your dedication and wish you well, Willie!

Thomson Safaris is one of only a few outfits that are allowed to have facilities right in the middle of the action. They have a tented camp right in the Serengeti, no fences, no barriers, just you and the animals sharing the same space. During the day we would often see animals in the vicinity of the camp, from zebras to giraffes, from warthogs to gazelles. At night, it was not unheard of for these animals to actually venture into the camp. Right outside the tent you would hear warthogs dig around, and if you’d shine your light into the edges of the camp, shiny eyes greeted you. And while you’re trying to sleep, zebras would call for alarm, while hyenas grew more and more excited. It is a feeling that’s difficult to describe.

The tents are also quite luxurious as far as camping goes. They have large beds with mattresses, a vanity area with sinks and mirrors, a bathroom and a shower. Hot water is provided on request, usually right before taking a shower. It’s not a fancy lodge, but it’s very comfortable and the experience is worth it. Being right where the animals are beats anything else there is.

…everyone agreed the Thomson tent camps are actually nicer [than the permanent lodge]. Even the food was nicer at the tent camps. I don’t know how the cooks in the tents do it, but it’s amazing that they could out-cook the permanent accommodations of a lodge.

As one of our guides told us, you can not visit Africa only once, and truer words were never spoken. Africa is in our hearts now, and we’ll certainly be back.

Cor & Julie
Africa through the Lens, February 2011

Visit Cor and Julie photo gallery and blog

Last week, Judi attended the annual Educational Travel Conference (ETC) where she was chairing the Responsible Tourism Committee. She was excited to tell us about meeting one of our heroes, author Peter Matthiessen.

Matthiessen is a two-time National Book Award-winning novelist, explorer and environmental activist who has written some of our favorite books: The Tree Where Man Was Born, The Snow Leopard and Sand Rivers. Matthiessen has traveled extensively to some of the most remote places on earth, and he told Judi, “Tanzania is the best country in Africa.”  Thanks, Peter – we couldn’t agree more!

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The entire trip was one big highlight film; it was an amazing adventure that I will never forget.

I felt we were in good hands from a health perspective. Every night our guides would check our oxygen level and heart rate, and were always making sure we were feeling OK. It was reassuring to know they were concerned about our health and not afraid to turn us back if necessary. I saw some people from other groups being carried down the mountain in very rough shape, I can only guess it was from altitude sickness and ascending too fast – something our guides would not allow to happen.

The porters should also be recognized for their tremendous effort. They all worked very hard to make sure we were comfortable, and they always had smiles on their faces. I feel like I made a lot of new friends on this trip. I also could tell that Thomson took care of them; from what I could see they were better equipped than porters from other organizations. I was glad I chose Thomson when I saw that.

I have to tell you the spaghetti at 15,000 feet was the best spaghetti I ever had in my life. I think I ate three plates. Seriously, the food was fantastic throughout the entire trek.

Overall it was a tremendous experience and I’m glad I chose Thomson Safaris. The trip was well-organized and  the Tanzanian guides and porters and cooks and waiters were all fantastic!

Dave B.
Kilimanjaro Western Approach Route, January 2011

Bryan, from our U.S. sales team, just returned from Tanzania with lots of great stories, gorgeous photos and some really impressive sightings under his belt.

At first, we thought he was just trying to make us jealous because two years ago, he spotted a different pack in Tarangire National Park.  These sightings are so rare and so special that we’ve been calling Bryan the Wild Dog Whisperer.

Of his latest trip, he said, “By day two of the safari the group had already seen wildebeest, zebra, giraffe, even a serval cat – but spotting a pack of 20 wild dogs was a total highlight. The dogs were relaxed, and even had pups with them . . . an amazing sight, and also encouraging to see a large group of such a rare species.”

Wild dogs are not domestic dogs that have simply “gone wild”; they are carnivores indigenous to Africa. As you can see by the photo above, wild dogs have large ears and a slender frame, weighing between 50-70lbs. Known for their efficiency in hunting, wild dogs travel in closely-bonded packs of anywhere between 2-60 members.

While wild dogs used to be found in nearly all areas in Africa, today they are close to extinction due to human encroachment and disease. They survive with depleted numbers in only a few African countries; in Tanzania they are more typically seen in the south, for example in Ruaha National Park.

Given the slim odds of seeing wild dogs in northern Tanzania, we wonder, is Bryan really that lucky or is he traveling with a daypack full of Scooby snacks?

Check out Bryan's collection of wild dog photos below.

Click thumbnails for larger image

The whole trip was a highlight! It would be hard to choose just one…maybe all the lionesses (at least 5) sleeping in a sausage tree 10 feet from the Land Rover while their kittens lay in a heap nearby?  Or being surrounded by thousands of wildebeests on the move?

We loved the night sounds and the brilliant stars, the tents, the staff and the good wholesome food. River Trees Inn and Gibb’s Farm (particularly) were nice changes but all of us were glad to get back to the tents for our last two nights.

All of this was made perfect by our amazing driver, Freddie; our amazingly well-informed guide, Freddie; our incredible spotter, Freddie; and our ever patient caretaker, Freddie.  I am sure all your guides are well-chosen, but we found Freddie to be an excellent companion and teacher. I expected to see many amazing things, but I didn’t expect to learn so much about them.  Thanks to Freddy I now know much more about the animals, birds, trees, and flowers as well as Tanzania and its people. We could not ask for anything more!

Best wishes and much gratitude for an experience we will remember forever,
Margery W. & Mac M.

Signature Thomson Safari, January 2011

Watch the video below to find out what happened during a special “blue flag ceremony” when Jane tells the children she will be traveling to Tanzania with Thomson Safaris.

Click here to view the embedded video.

Both Ted and I wanted to extend a very special “thank you” for your thoughtful gift of champagne at the lodge upon our Kili descent!  We loved it!  The trip was – in every way – wonderful!  A very special and most memorable honeymoon!
Thanks again!

Jo R. & Ted D.
Kilimanjaro Western Approach Route, January 2011

Thomson Safaris has an exceptional staff – from the guides to the camp managers to the people who cook and maintain the camp. We enjoyed the whole experience!  We had a good blend of African adventures.

We even enjoyed the nyumbas though we aren’t “camping” people.  They were comfortable accommodations and brought us close to nature.

Joe & Roseanne S.
Signature Thomson Safari, October 2010

Watch their talk below entitled, Life Lessons from Big Cats, to see footage and photographs they captured by “going where no sane person should go,” including lion hunts, cute cubs (everyone’s favorite), and a few surprises. Even for these seasoned safari veterans, nature still proves to be unpredictable.

I’m simply at a loss for words to describe how amazing my trip was.  It was the adventure of a lifetime and I will be forever impacted by Thomson and grateful for such an awesome, life changing experience!

I’m awestruck by Bernard and his mountain crew. Bernard is such a talented and special man.  He is truly one of a kind and a tremendous asset to your organization.

Many thanks to Thomson!

Jenny J.
Kilimanjaro Western Approach Route, June 2010

We all agreed that we paid for first-class service and we received first-class service.  I would go with Thomson Safaris again to anywhere.  Your crew did an outstanding job. We could just marvel how they managed to keep up their happy spirits despite the heavy work.  Also the food and service was amazing under such harsh conditions.

It was reassuring to see that safety was always at the forefront.  Also Thomson’s concern about the welfare of the porters made a big difference in choosing this company.

Our tents, camp, food and staff appeared to be far superior to the other mountain trekkers’ which we encountered on the way.  Our guides were the best.  We always felt well-informed about the upcoming day and when needed they were willing to give up their own comfort just to make sure we are all well taken care of.  This is beyond the call of duty.

Helga A.
Western Approach Route, February 2010

Read more about Helga’s record-setting trek on our blog

Find out why Helga set her sights on conquering Mount Kilimanjaro and details about the trek in her article, Kilimanjaro Adventure – Why Climb the Mountain?

We are excited to partner with a like-minded organization, the Green Living Project (GLP), which documents and promotes global sustainability initiatives – like eco-lodging, voluntourism and responsible travel – around the globe.

GLP is hosting a local event on Thursday night, featuring their premiere of their film documenting new sustainability-related projects across Central America and Maine – and we will be there! You can find us raffling off Thomson goodies, enjoying the live music and complementary refreshments, and maybe even shopping for gear at EMS with the discount offered that night only. Stop by and see us!

Location: Eastern Mountain Sports, Harvard Square, Cambridge, MA
Date: Thursday, January 27^th, 6:00 – 9:00 pm

Get more information about Thursday’s event here

What an incredible adventure we had with World Wildlife Fund and Thomson Safaris!  One incredible moment was surpassed by the next, and every day would exceed the day before.

Your staff at the camps were extremely gracious and welcoming, and our guides (Makinda, Musa, and Derek) were very knowledgeable about the wildlife and ecology.  Makinda, as our lead guide, demonstrated a wealth of knowledge about the interrelationships found in each ecological niche.  As zoology majors in college, we knew that this was going to be a great trip, but we never imagined it would far surpass our expectations.

Thanks for all your help in arranging this once-in-a-lifetime excursion.  I feel that Thomson Safaris had a keen understanding of the conservation issues facing the habitat and wildlife of Tanzania and wanted us to understand those relationships, rather than just conducting a “show-and-tell” for tourists.

Rowena S.
World Wildlife Fund Classic Safari, February 2010

She said about her accomplishment, “I never think of it as anything special. It came as a big surprise to me that I am the second oldest woman to successfully have reached the summit. I’m sure it is only thanks to Thomson’s superb crew.”

Wilfred, the group’s guide, commented that she was an inspiration by saying,  “Bibi is my rock star, she makes everyone in the group happy.”  (Bibi is Swahili for Grandmother) So what’s Helga’s secret? She cites a strong positive attitude and living by this mantra: It is good to try something we think we cannot do because we find out, we can.

Helga at the summit / The surprise celebration at the trail gate following the trek

Find out why Helga set her sights on conquering Mount Kilimanjaro and details about the trek in her article, Kilimanjaro Adventure – Why Climb the Mountain?

My family and I just returned from a family safari with Thomson.  Everything Thomson promised was fulfilled in every way. Willie, our lead guide, was excellent – he was professional and friendly at all times. There was never a time that we felt Willie didn’t have our best interest above all.

I can’t say enough good things about Frank, our mentor. His personality is terrific working with children (and adults). My kids looked forward to spending time with Frank. Not only did they have fun, he also educated them about the animals, the culture, and the people.

Going to the school was wonderful, one of the desires we had for taking the kids on this trip was for them to experience how other people lived and their everyday life. The school was a perfect way for the kids and us to experience a day in the life of a Tanzanian child. I hope my kids are changed just a bit by meeting the kids at the school.

I would recommend Thomson and most of all take another trip with Thomson!

Cary S.
Tanzania Family Safari, July 2010

Our trip to Tanzania was a trip of a lifetime and one we will never forget. We feel as though we were so lucky because we got two wonderful couples to share our trip with, fabulous guides that taught us so much….found us every animal imaginable…and were fun, fun, fun to be with. Plus the weather was perfect every day.

We are so happy that we chose the safari that we did (Tanzania Discovery Safari) because we got a taste of not just animals, but the people and the landscapes of Tanzania.  We felt there was a perfect balance of all three. The lodgings were all wonderful and staff in every location could not have been nicer.

Have I gushed enough?  But really, everything WAS wonderful!  Thanks again for all your help in getting us ready for the trip. We would recommend Thomson Safaris to anyone wanting to take a trip to Tanzania.

Cheryl & Ken Z.
Tanzania Discovery Safari, March 2010

For instance, elephants are the only species other than humans who mourn their dead. When encountering the remains of an elephant, the herd forms a circle around it and falls silent while they investigate and touch every aspect of the bones with their trunks and their highly sensitized hind feet. They perform this ritual regardless of how much time has passed since the death of the elephant. No other species – not even chimpanzees who share over 98% of our DNA – have displayed this level of emotion and are as deeply affected by death.

Renowned photographers, documentarians and activists, Cyril Christo and Marie Wilkinson have observed elephants and their behaviors for many years. Their latest documentary, The Last Stand of the African Elephant, examines the human/elephant bond and makes a call to action to stop the ivory trade. View the trailer, narrated by Ali MacGraw, below.

Click here to view the embedded video.

When asked why this has become their life’s work, Christo states, “Humans may have followed elephants along ancient migration paths out of Africa. Like us, elephants recognize who they are…They have influenced us biologically, culturally, and mythically for hundreds of thousands of years. When we stare into their eyes, we stare into the eyes of origin. Without the elephants, we lose our ballast. We have this decade to stop the slaughter of the innocents. Their future is our fate.”

Our trip was absolutely amazing, I never dreamed I would see so many animals and birds.

The lodges were great but I really liked the Nyumbas the most: the crews in the camps were always eager to please and the food was outstanding. I’d love the recipes for all the soups we enjoyed.

I can’t say enough about how well we were treated. Thomson Safaris did an excellent job and I would recommend this tour to everyone wanting to see Tanzania. My safari was worth every penny.

Betty-Joan K.
Signature Thomson Safari, July 2010

Dear Thomson Safaris,

This is a group photo from our safari in February 2010.  We wanted to thank you once again for a very well organized trip and also a very special adventure.  We talk about our trip often and it will be in our hearts forever!  Your staff: on the mountain, on safari, my cultural liaison while at the school, anyone connected to our trip was extremely professional, friendly, funny and knowledgeable.  They all made our trip memorable!

To Michael and Katie [in the US office], thank you for a very good understanding in what needs we wanted to make that trip a wonderful memory.  We highly recommend Thomson Safaris to anyone who many want to take that GREAT ADVENTURE!  Again – thank you and to ALL your staff – a very merry Christmas and a great New Year. Jambo rafiki!

Jeff & Julie K.
Kilimanjaro Western Approach Route & Safari, February 2010

I always felt incredibly safe and cared for.  The guides were always focused on our safety and health and  made us feel like we had nothing to worry about.

Aubrie F.
Kilimanjaro Western Approach Route & Safari, October 2010

Thomson guides and mentors attended a leadership seminar last week at our Arusha headquarters. Attending frequent seminars, like this one, is one of the many ways our guides are able to stay on top of their game.

Emmanual Kileo, who has been guiding for nearly 30 years adds, “Learning never stops! In guiding and in nature, there is more to learn than you could ever imagine, and things are always changing. You can always get better.”

Every day with our guide, Makinda, was like a classroom experience.  His knowledge of animals, birds, plants, geography and geology is very impressive.  He never showed impatience, despite being asked many questions (often repeatedly).

Compared to other (company’s) vehicles that we saw, we were delighted.  Ours had ample room, excellent viewing from top and sides and the ability to close windows during rain and dust.

Arlene & Kurt P.
Signature Thomson Safari, October 2010

What an amazing trip. Simply beyond words. Tanzania is a beautiful place: Animals, people, landscape, the sights, sounds, and even the smells are poa sana, which is Swahili for very cool!!! My photos don’t do the whole experience justice as there is so much more to see than just the wildlife.

I spent more time standing up than sitting down (in the Land Rovers).  What a cool way to see this country!  I was always comfortable – always felt safe and enjoyed the bumps as much as the smooth rides!

I’ve been telling everyone we know to contact Thomson. Every single penny we spent – every thought and concern that went into the planning and preparation – was WELL worth it. Beyond worth it.

I couldn’t possibly recommend it enough.

Chris & Kim K.
Private Thomson Safari, October 2010

When I met our guide at the airport, I knew we were in good hands.  Our family, especially all 3 children, had a wonderful relationship with John.

Jeffrey B.
Private Family Safari, October 2010

Be sure to visit Randy’s website and blog to read how he captured this dynamic moment on safari and to see more impressive imagery from his travels.

It was a trip of a lifetime, and I can’t tell you how frequently my mind goes back to those days on the mountain. The people we were with, our guides, our porters, and all the work done behind the scenes made this the best vacation I’ve ever been on.  Additionally, I went with my step-father, and the bond I built with him during the hike is priceless.  The same goes for the other six climbers with us… all of us are still in touch, sharing photos, laughing over memories, etc.

The best parts of the trip: Our guides, Kapange and Earnest, were AMAZING. Earnest’s positive spirit was too dear, and I felt that he was always looking over us.  Kapange was an outstanding head guide, and I felt totally safe and happy with him at the head.  My porter, Nico, is the reason I made it to the top.

The lodging was AMAZING, especially Gibbs Farm and the Arusha Coffee Lodge.  I wish I could go back to either spot right now!  They were totally appreciated after days on the mountain.

I would recommend Thomson to anyone, and I’m proud to be associated with the group.

Kelly L.
Grand Traverse Route & Safari, September 2010

Fit For Trips definitely worked for me. I really appreciated being able to touch base regularly with the staff. They helped me immensely. I have NEVER been in such good shape in my life. In fact, people have asked me how I did it!

I climbed the Western Approach Route and experienced no aches, pains or any other physical ailments on the trip. No doubt this was because I was completely physically prepared. I will definitely use Fit For Trips another time. And hopefully soon, as I am now addicted to adventure!

Meg B.
Kilimanjaro Western Approach Route, June 2010

Don’t let the name fool you, rhinos are grey in color, not black or white as their names suggest. Both species are found in sub-Saharan Africa and look similar to one another, but the major difference is the shape of their mouths.

Black rhinos developed a pointed lip which they use to pick fruit from branches and select leaves from twigs; white rhinos have a flat, wide lip to graze on grasses. So why call them white or black?  In Afrikaans and in English – “weid” or “wide” lipped rhino was mistakenly understood to be white rhino.

Although they are nearing extinction, our safari guests often spot black rhinos in Ngorongoro Crater or the Serengeti.

Rhinos have been making the headlines recently. The sad fact is that these endangered mammals are still being poached for their horns – as recently as this week, the bodies of 18 rhinos were found in South Africa and Mozambique. Efforts to save the rhinos from extinction still forge on however.

Last summer, in a massive conservation effort, five black rhinos were flown in to Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park. Before they were released into the wild, Thomson Safaris by way of a very special invitation, had the honor to visit – and even feed – these rhinos! Be sure to read about it in our recent newsletter, Notes from the Field.

Our guide, Kileo, is extremely knowledgeable and incredibly kind with a great sense of humor.  He made us feel incredibly safe and important as 3 women traveling alone.

Kiley H.
Private Thomson Safari, August 2010

We had an outstanding hike up Kilimanjaro.  All of our guides were outstanding.  The food was excellent.  The planning and services were also far above most of what we had seen on the mountain and otherwise.

Julie and I both reached the summit which gave us an amazing feeling. Needless to say, we both felt that the highlight of the entire trip was getting to know the people with whom we crossed paths including our porters, the guides, our fellow trekkers and the residents of Tanzania.  It made an enormous impression on us.  Learning about the Maasai tribe way of life was a true eye-opener.  We will definitely never forget this experience!

David & Julie M.
Umbwe Route & Safari, October 2010

It was so easy to not have to worry about the details and really enjoy the country and its people.  We felt safe at all times and so well taken care of.

I have to say that our guides, Charles and Musty, were wonderful.  I felt perfectly safe with Musty behind the wheel and Charles had such a wonderful feel for the land and the animals that he provided a deep, rich experience.  Musty touched all of us by saying, “Thank you for letting us be a part of this experience and your life.”

My wife and I were really touch deeply by the whole experience, we want to come back and will without a doubt.  I am sure it is from a movie, but it is really true – you can leave Africa, but it does not leave you.

Again, thank you for a wonderful experience.

Sandy & Mike B.
Private Thomson Safari, June 2010

Click here to view the embedded video.

Be sure to check National Geographic Channel for your local listings and see more incredible wildlife footage.

Cheetahs usually get all the glory when it comes to speed – after all, they are the fastest land animals, with top speeds of about 70 mph – but cheetahs would never win a marathon. Cheetahs are unbeatable in the 100 yard dash but distances beyond 100 yards cause these cats to overheat. Ostriches on the other hand, are not only fast but are also one of the most efficient runners. These humongous birds use half of the energy humans do at their top speed, which allows them to run longer distances.

The secret to the ostrich’s efficiency lies in the “spring” in their step. According to a recent study, “Ostriches generate over twice as much power from recoil of elastic energy stored in tendons than humans, which means they need less muscle power to run at the same speed.”

Read more about a recent study featured on BBC Earth News drawing comparisons between the ostrich and the human gait.

Source: BBC Earth News

I will be 60 years old this year and this safari was the best vacation I’ve ever had.  Both guides made the trip most enjoyable.  The food was unbelievable, 4 stars.  I’ve been a camper all of my life, however, I have never camped like this before.  Your Nyumbas were as comfortable as most, if not all, of any hotels I have stayed in, and the Nyumbas gave us views and sounds of wildlife.  Thank you very much,  I will recommend your safaris to any of my family or friends.

Vernon M.
Private Thomson Safari, June 2010

Both Kileo and Abu were an exceptional part of our trip!  They both made OUR happiness THEIR top priority.  We felt understood and safe.  We were encouraged to make our vacation our own, but also motivated by them to get a lot in.  GREAT!  I would happily recommend either of them to any of my friends.

Kim H.
Custom Safari, July 2010

This was a fitting tribute in so many ways.  Michela had an ebullient spirit and a love for Tanzania, which actually began on a Thomson Safari. By working with FoTZC, Rick and Kristen were not only honoring Michela’s memory but helping fulfill her dream of one day assisting Tanzanian women.

The result of this collaboration was the completion of Phase I of Michela's Room, a massive dining and community hall at Ganako Secondary School in Karatu. The celebration and dedication was held in the newly completed hall in August – with Michela’s family, community leaders and over 400 Tanzanians in attendance.

Rick Harriman, who has plans for additional phases of Michela’s Room added, “It really was a celebration about community and the future.”

Click image to enlarge

In the meantime, click on the image above to have a closer look at some of the projects FoTZC has completed over the years.

Our time with Thomson Safaris was wonderful – it was everything we had hoped for and more.  All the staff were wonderful, we really liked the nyumbas, the food, and of course the guides.  Our very, very favorite was Chama.

At the end of our trip, we stayed for three days in a private reserve next to Kruger National Park.  While we enjoyed the experience a great deal, we felt that the Thomson Tour was more real and exciting.

In our view, the guides at Thomson were more knowledgeable and more accommodating.

Mark & Michele O.
Classic Thomson Safari, September 2010

I’ll never forget my guide’s knowledge, passion and intellectual curiosity.  We made a real connection -  I consider him my friend.  He is not only a citizen of Africa but also of the world.  I can’t say enough about his open-heartedness and willingness to share!

I also made a strong connection with the Maasai woman at the boma.  We danced, we laughed with joy and we thoroughly enjoyed each other’s company.  She gifted me with a piece of her bead work!  I was the last out and a guide had to pull me away!

Geralin C.
Classic Thomson Safari, June 2010

It was an absolutely incredible family vacation, and we have been recommending Thomson to many friends and acquaintances who are looking to travel to Africa.  We felt the Explorer’s Safari was absolutely perfect – allowing us to experience the wildlife, culture, and geography in the best possible ways.  Quite frankly, I cannot imagine doing it any other way.

I wanted a trip where I could hike and my mom wanted a trip where she could see animals, so Thomson’s Explorer Safari was the perfect fit.

Jane & Caroline S.
Explorer’s Safari, June 2010

You have done a fabulous job from the décor to the food.  The people you have hired are doing a great job and you are doing an admirable job helping the people where you are located.  Our grandchildren (ages 7-14) have had a wonderful experience and our guide, Charles, was exceptional. He was a perfect choice for a 3 generation family.

Anne & Ron H.
Private Safari, June 2010

Great chefs!  Kitchen visits showed us how wonderful food can be prepared with such basic equipment and supplies (the complete opposite to US kitchens).  Especially enjoyed great soups and creative vegetable preparation.

Emma O.
Private Safari, June 2010

Abu was wonderful with the kids.  He kept them engaged and happy so the adults could enjoy themselves.  The “mentor” concept is brilliant.  Having Abu for the kids made the trip great for everyone.

Kelly R.
Private Family Safari, July 2010

In a correspondence to Adrienne and Sarah, Judi wrote:
“I believe very strongly that as a group of people who care to share their resources, we need to be careful how we do it.  I hope to challenge each of you so that you can determine the best avenue for your future ‘giving.’  This is about a life-long learning experience and will make you more responsible travelers and able to provide sustainable resources to anyone for the future.”

After a year of assignments evaluating sustainability, the mentorship led to a Thomson Safari where Adrienne and Sarah visited schools, development projects, an orphanage and a health clinic to gain further understanding of sustainability and on-site processes.

Following the trip Adrienne explained, “To create and establish a project you have to be able to understand the needs of communities. You want to make a difference, but you don’t want to impede upon the culture. You have to ask the right questions. It is not always what you think it is as an outsider.”

Click here to view the embedded video.

I used to think the train was my favorite way of transport until I stepped into Thomson’s Land Rover. I will always love/remember that feeling. I saw other safari vehicles didn’t have a roof and windows that could open and close. I am so glad ours did – and we did not have too many people in one vehicle!

Charlie P.
Classic Thomson Safari, July 2010

It has been great traveling with a group of people with similar interests to me.  The whole trip has been a great learning experience.

Charles M.
Africa Through the Lens, June 2010

At 22 years old, Jornet has an impressive list of accomplishments under his belt, winning both international running and skiing competitions. He is sponsored by Salomon which takes him to some of the most rugged mountains on the planet to train and compete while testing Salomon’s gear.

Typically, a successful Kili climb is dependent on how well, and if, your body acclimatizes to high altitude. The more time you allow for the ascent, the better. How can anyone make it up to 19,340’ within hours? See the video below for a look into Jornet’s intense training program (which he performs at altitude), which animal he uses as inspiration to perfect his climbing technique, and his unwavering positive attitude. He says, “When you train, anything is possible.”

Click here to view the embedded video.

You don’t have to be super-human to get to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro! Find out more about training and acclimatization.

Earlier this year, Jimmy trekked Mount Kilimanjaro with Thomson Safaris for the Summit on the Summit celebrity charity climb that included the likes of Emile Hirsch, Jessica Biel, and Kenna, and was filmed for a documentary on MTV.

Listen to the interview below, where we caught up with Jimmy via phone and chatted about his experience on Africa’s tallest mountain.

The Diaz family just returned from a private Thomson Safari where they shot an impressive series of photographs. They were in the right place at the right time to witness a lion stalking and capturing a young Thomson’s gazelle in the Serengeti. Be sure to click on the thumbnails below to see how the hunt unfolded right in front of their Land Rover.
Click thumbnails for larger image

Jon B.
Classic Thomson Safari, June 2010

We booked with Thomson Safaris because of their quality and reputation. Thomson’s eco efforts and programs to give back to Tanzania’s people were very important to us.

Karen & Jim O.
Private Safari, January 2010

The service of the staff from our guides, Samson and Phanuel, to all of the staff at all of the campsites was exceptional.  Kudos to Thomson for doing such a magnificent job of training them and building loyalty.

Pam L.
Museum of Science Safari, January 2010

Want to sing along?
Here are the lyrics:
Jambo, Jambo Bwana, Habari gani, Mzuri sana.
Wageni, mwakaribishwa, Tanzania yetu, Hakuna Matata
Tanzania nchi nzuri, Hakuna Matata.
Nchi yenye amani, Hakuna Matata.
Watu wote, Hakuna Matata, Wakaribishwa, Hakuna Matata.
Hakuna Matata, Hakuna Matata.

Translation:
Hello, hello, how are you, very fine.
Guests, you’re welcome, in our Tanzania, it’s no problem.
Tanzania is a beautiful country, it’s no problem.
A wonderful country, it’s no problem.
A peaceful country, it’s no problem.
All are welcome, it’s no problem.

(note: the original song was released in the 1980′s  in Kenya, since then many versions of the song have emerged, which insert various East African locations into the lyrics, including Tanzania, the Serengeti, Kilimanjaro, etc.)

This was a trip of a lifetime! Everyone was friendly and fun! The guides became our best friends and were loaded with knowledge. You guys know what you are doing and you have the right people doing it!! Thank you!

We are forever grateful to Thomson for helping create the most magical honeymoon experience imaginable. Asante sana!

Tracey and Thomas
Classic Thomson Safari, November 2009

We had a great trip which exceeded our expectations on all counts. It was the best planned trip we’ve ever been on and the guides showed an amazing knowledge and wonderful attitude at all times.

Similarly all the support staff were extraordinary and truly focused on making the trip the best for us all. Above all, they were attentive to how we were feeling and the head guide was keen on safety of the group. It truly was a trip of a lifetime.

Munira M.
Kilimanjaro Western Approach Route, July 2010

(This is Munira’s second time traveling with Thomson. Her first trip, three years ago,  was a safari through northern Tanzania.)

Capturing a great wildlife photograph can be a challenge. Here are some simple tips that will improve your wildlife photography without costing you a cent.

Simplify – Avoid the tendency to include too much in your image. Thousands of wildebeest migrate across the Serengeti plains but capturing this grand spectacle with your lens is almost impossible. The solution is to simplify the image. Ask yourself what the subject of the image is and then eliminate everything else. Simplification will make the message of your image clearer.

Watch for behaviors – Zebras, and other animals on the plains, spend a lot of time eating, which is beautiful while you are there but doesn’t always make for the most compelling photo. Instead, take a few minutes to watch and wait for their behaviors like nuzzling their young, fighting, and running to get a more interesting and dynamic image. (hint: behaviors often repeat)

Wait for the peak moment – All movement involves a beginning, a peak, and an ending. The best photographs usually happen at the peak. When a lion yawns, the best image is going to be when the mouth is fully extended (look at those teeth!). By timing your shots to coincide with peak moments, you capture the drama of the action.

By applying these three tips, your images will start to reflect the vision of your mind’s eye.

Chris Gamel is a professional photographer who leads trips in Tanzania. Visit his website and blog for more photography tips.

During his visit, the Ambassador officially opened construction of teacher’s housing in Sukenya Village, a project being supported by Focus on Tanzanian Communities and Thomson Safaris. In a speech to the students of Sukenya Primary School, he said,

“The school...and this wonderful structure that Thomson Safaris has made available will provide the opportunity for these youngsters to learn what is right about the world and how that knowledge can preserve the Maasai.  So sitting in this group are future doctors, scientists, engineers, any number of specialties and professions that will help the Maasai people."

Ambassador Lenhardt also visited with the Enyuata Women's Collaborative, a group of Maasai women who have progressively established several small businesses. Their initiatives have been supported by Thomson Safaris and Focus on Tanzanian Communities.

During the remainder of his visit in the Serengeti, Lenhardt gathered information on the proposed road to be built through the northern Serengeti and, on invitation by the Frankfurt Zoological Society, visited the newly repatriated rhinos from South Africa.

Click here to view the embedded video.

Dr. Jane Goodall’s Thoughts on Gombe 50 from The Jane Goodall Institute on Vimeo.

When you think of the Great Migration, dramatic images of wildebeest avoiding hungry crocs as they make their way across the river may come to mind. However, these antelopes partake in another exciting annual event, which is happening right now in the Serengeti. From around mid-June to early July, about 250,000 males compete for 750,000 females in the annual wildebeest mating ritual called the rut.

Dr. Richard Estes, one of the world’s authorities on wildebeest in East Africa, told Thomson Safaris, “the noise made by the bulls is probably the most amazing thing,” Estes said of the rut. “You don’t actually see them mating all that often, but the bulls are running around, butting their heads together and expending enormous amounts of energy to round up females and keep them together. I’ve seen bulls so intent on rounding up and defending a herd that they completely overlook the presence of estrus females. That defeats the whole point of the exercise.” *

Eight months after the rut, between January and March, the females will calve. The three-week calving season, during which ninety percent of wildebeest babies are born, creates an unforgettable spectacle on the Serengeti plains.

* Excerpt of interview with Dr. Richard Estes from a 2002 issue of the Thomson Safaris Newsletter.

In an effort to save the rhinos from extinction, seven Eastern Black Rhino were transported from East Africa in 1961 to a private reserve in South Africa. The rhinos thrived in this protected area with their numbers quadrupling during their long-term visit.

In an extraordinary conservation effort, 32 rhino – descendants of the seven transplants – will be reintroduced to the Serengeti over the next two years. Last month, the first five were flown into the Seronera area and received a warm Tanzanian welcome.

In order to protect the newly introduced rhinos, radio-transmitters will be implanted in their horns and they will be guarded around the clock by specially-trained rangers, the Serengeti Rhino Protection Unit (SRPU).

Photo taken near the Moru Kopjes in Serengeti National Park in March 2010
by Thomson Safaris guest, Joseph V. Smith

As a member of our marketing department, Ali reviews countless photos of Tanzania and Mt. Kilimanjaro, so she was thrilled to finally be on the other side of the photograph and experience the mountain for herself. She joined our 6-day Umbwe Route trek, which is one of the more demanding ascents on the mountain.

Ali enjoyed the challenge of the climb and shared with us that the push to the summit required not only physical strength but also a healthy dose of mental fortitude. She said, “Altitude can humble you in an instant – you really have to dig deep and want it! My guides and fellow trekkers not only made the trip fun but also offered an incredible amount of support. It’s an experience I’ll never forget.”

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Read more Thomson Safaris Kilimanjaro reviews here

Governor Deval Patrick declared June 9 Family Business Day in Massachusetts, and in a ceremony to mark the occasion, awards were presented to honor Excellence in Family Business.

We thank the governor and The Northeastern University Center for Family Business for recognizing Thomson Safaris again!

She’s on the tail end of her third Thomson Safari, this time with her parents and three siblings in tow!

Eliza is one of our predeparture experts, so she spends 5-days-a-week helping guests from all over North America prepare for their adventures. She loved this brand new experience of sharing all that passion for Tanzania with her family.

After some terrific wildlife viewing, the whole family took three days to volunteer their time (and more than a little elbow grease) at Ganako Secondary School in Karatu. They rolled up their sleeves, picked up some shovels, and worked side by side with members of the community on building a new kitchen and dining area for the school. Many wheelbarrows and shovelfuls of gravel later, they had a solid foundation laid.

Here’s a photo of Eliza and the entire crew at Ganako. We’ll keep you posted on the finished project, but in the meantime, everyone here wants to congratulate Eliza and her family on a job well done!

For more educational podcasts, visit Radiolab.

When we heard the following account about a humpback whale and the people who helped free her from a potentially deadly tangle of crab traps, we knew we had to share it.  Is it possible that this sea-dwelling giant showed signs of gratitude? Can non-human species possess such a human emotion?

Fellow wildlife enthusiasts will love this fascinating debate about inter-species communication. Brought to you by Radiolab.

Listen to the podcast below to learn more about this Thomson trek; Erica’s specialized off-road wheelchair; how she and fellow challenged athlete, Tara Butcher, stayed motivated during the climb; and Erica’s future plans and goals.

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I was totally confident that traveling with you again would be great. I come for all the beauty and wildlife but feel only with your staff could Tanzania be so special.

I even brought a photo from my trip 10 years ago of our 4 guides and asked if your people knew any of them. Can you believe they are all still on your staff today? That speaks for itself! A BIG WOW!!

Asante sana,
Nancy W.
Classic Thomson Safari, January 2010

(This is Nancy’s second safari with Thomson Safaris. Her first safari with Thomson was in 1998.)

Last weekend, Through the Roof, a documentary about the climb, premiered in Carlsbad, California. The film received great reviews as well as a standing ovation! Click on the image below to watch the documentary trailer.

www.throughtheroofmovie.com

Coming soon to the Thomson Safaris blog:
an exclusive interview with Erica Davis!

The camps were awesome and the food was top notch.  One evening I mentioned how wonderful the food was to Deo. He said that “we try to make it like you would eat at home”.  All of us from the US cracked up. We told him that the only time we eat this well is when we go to a restaurant.

I truly could go on and on. Suffice it to say that when people back home ask me how our trip was I tell them that on a scale of 1 to 10, it was a 15!  If (when) we return to Tanzania, we will be traveling with Thomson. I think the trip we were on was very well rounded, a nice blend of culture and safari.

Jim G.
Tanzania Discovery Safari, March 2010

When we arrived, Justo picked us up at the airport.  We were tired and I must have seemed concerned because Justo said, “relax Helen, Thomson will do everything for you.” Indeed, it was true.  I am unaccustomed to such service, perhaps that is because I soon began to view the staff as friends.  The folks you employ in Tanzania are the crown jewels of your business.

To be able to go on such nature walks, and truly “feel” the place is an experience I will never forget.  I had concerns about meeting the Maasai because I did not wish to be involved in objectification of anyone and an experience I had a while ago in Mexico gave me such concerns.  Instead, I felt like I met real individuals and that they gained something out of meeting us as well. I now see that you would not be involved in the kind of treatment that I feared.

Sadly, it is often the case that things anticipated for so long can never measure up to the years of imagined joy.  While my expectations were not specific in terms of particular events, they were indeed high.  But I could never have imagined that we would have had such a wonderful time.  We simply loved all of it.

My very best regards,
Bibi Helena
Explorer’s Safari, September 2009

Throughout her 50-year career, world-renowned primatologist, conservationist and UN Messenger of Peace, Dr. Goodall, has embodied the statement above through her ground-breaking and influential work to make our planet a better place.

The draw to Africa developed early-on for the young Brit who found inspiration from books such as Tarzan and Dr. Doolittle. It was Goodall’s supportive and forward-thinking mother who laid the foundation for Jane’s inner strength telling her, “You can do whatever you put your mind to.”

Fifty years ago, 25-year old Goodall bravely traveled to Tanzania’s Gombe Stream National Park where she pioneered her famous chimpanzee behavioral research. Her findings have provided a wealth of scientific discovery including topics such as societal patterns, tool-making, and the complex emotional behaviors of chimpanzees.

Today, Jane’s focus has broadened to a global mission to empower people, especially youth, through her Roots & Shoots program and the Jane Goodall Institute (JGI), which stresses the importance of conservation, community, wildlife and the environment.

Dr. Goodall will be speaking at Harvard University next Monday, May 3 about the 50^th anniversary of her research at Gombe Stream National Park. All of us here in the Thomson Safaris office are excited to hear her speak; maybe she will grace us with a few of her signature chimp calls? Regardless, we are eager to be inspired by the words and experiences of this extraordinary woman. Join us! Tickets are still available here: Harvard’s Sanders Theatre box office.

Secretary of State, Hillary Rodham Clinton, sends her congratulations to the people of Tanzania as they celebrate their forty-sixth anniversary of the union.

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Those honored included thirty senior staffers who have been with the company for 15, 20 or 25+ years, and are now affectionately referred to as the “Wazee Club.”  Wazee, is a swahili term of honor that refers to respected elders, and is used here with a wink by the rest of the staff for their “old” colleagues.

Safari guides, camp managers, fundis (craftsmen), drivers, office staff, and groundskeepers were among those honored with a special gold, silver or copper badge, representing the 3 tiers of dedicated service.

See photos from the ceremony below including some snapshots of our guides receiving name tags indicating their years of service (15, 20 and 25+ years) from company owners Rick and Judi.

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Thomson Safaris guides are some of the most experienced in Tanzania, in fact, our guests always return raving about their guides! Photographer, Randy Hanna, repeatedly travels with Thomson Safaris due to our guides’ longevity and experience in the bush, see how guides with experience can really make a difference.

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One of our favorite feathered friends is the Masked Weaver. Theses songbirds measure about 5” in length and have a black face (or a mask). Their bright yellow body contrasts vividly against the green of the woodlands where they make their home.

Weavers have a fascinating mating ritual; in fact the female weavers exhibit what we might call diva behavior! As part of the ritual, male weavers construct (or weave) an elaborate nest made from grasses and twigs suspended from tree branches. The nests include a single entrance towards the bottom of the structure to limit predator’s access to the interior.

Once they are completed, the nests are presented to the females, who thoroughly inspect the craftsmanship to determine its durability and security. The females are a difficult lot to impress – often times, they reject the nest, which forces the males to abandon their work and start a new structure.

Once a nest is approved, the female lines the inside the interior with feathers and lays her eggs. The male weaver goes on to build more nests to attract his next mate.

Click here to view the embedded video.

Masked weaver builds his nest. Thanks to Thomson Safaris guests for providing this footage.
Videographer: Linda Fosseen / Editor: John Fosseen

Arranging Tanzanian pen-pals for children on our family safaris has proved to be a rich cultural learning experience for all involved. See Megan Donahue’s experience in the trailer for My Pen Pal: An African Adventure below.

Click here to view the embedded video.

“My Pen Pal: An African Adventure” trailer from Shaun Donahue Productions, Inc. on Vimeo.

Melissa Arnot, famed Everest mountaineer and trekker/leader for this climb, said, “This is the largest group I’ve ever seen have 100% success on the summit of any mountain.”

We are proud to have been part of such an important and successful trek.
Watch the full documentary here.

Pictured above: Jason Walsh, Kick Kennedy, Santi White, Alexandra Cousteau, Elizabeth Gore, Dr. Greg Allgood, Lupe Fiasco, Michael Muller, Emile Hirsch, Melissa Arnot, Simon Isaac, Jessica Biel, Kenna, Isabelle Lucas, Bernise Ang, Jimmy Chin

Katie, our Kilimanjaro Program Manager was also on this trek.
Read about her experiences here.

Click here to view the embedded video.

Below is a clip of a fun you-sing-we-sing cultural music exchange between our travelers and a group of Maasai women.

Click here to view the embedded video.

Do you have any videos or photos you would like to share? Contact us

Fit For Trips is excellent. I followed the 3 month program scrupulously and am in the best shape I have been since I was in high school. It gave me the confidence so I was certain that if I was not affected by the altitude, there was no question that I would reach the summit. The altitude was not a problem and I reached the summit easily.

Bill F.
Kilimanjaro Western Approach Route, January 2010

Andy shared his photography tips on ABC’s morning show, View From the Bay, where he shared travel photography tips including natural lighting, equipment and packing efficiently for excursions. Speaking of packing, did you know Andy designed a camera bag inspired by his travels to Africa? You can check it out here.

We are so proud of challenged athletes, Erica and Tara, and their crew from the C.H.E.K Institute! As promised, we have some photos to share with you from their inspiring trek. Derek, the team coordinator, adds a final reflection: “A couple quick thoughts on what we just did. First and foremost which sticks out in many of our minds is something that will never be able to be taken away from Erica or even us, the first female paraplegic on the summit of Kilimanjaro. I have written it many times or said it but the faces of those coming down, absolutely defeated in exhaustion, seeing us going up, was absolutely priceless.  Most people just stopped and starred and were like “how in the hell or why in the hell are you doing that”. Well the truth is, why not.  Erica was great and never got mad or down, and neither did Tara for that matter.  Both girls gritted their teeth, and kept climbing. But both of those girls were going to make that summit. And they did.  It was freezing, high and just absolutely exhausting, but they did it.”

Check out some photos from the inspiring trek!

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Kissanga brought our guests to see the migration in the Ndutu marsh area last Thursday. He predicts that by next week the herds will leave the marshes in search of greener grasses.

Well, we are back from the trip of a lifetime!  We had the most phenomenal trip to Tanzania. I have been encouraging everyone to go to Tanzania and, of course, to choose Thomson Safaris.  I can’t imagine having done this trip any other way.

Our guides were exceptional and the accommodations were an aspect of the trip which exceeded our expectations.  I tell everyone if you ever go on safari do not stay in the lodges or you will miss out on some amazing experiences!  And this is coming from someone who hasn’t camped a day in her life!  We saw wildebeest and zebra aplenty outside of our tents.  The locations of the camps were spectacular.  I never imagined getting to camp along the rim of Ngorongoro Crater or siting beneath the clear, brightly lit sky of the Serengeti.  Wow.

Jolene Renee B.
Highlights of Tanzania Safari, September 2009

I was extremely impressed with our guides and porters.  They were very happy to tell us how long they had worked for Thomson, and it was clear they enjoyed their jobs.  I’ll forever pair Thomson and Tanzania.

Bernard, Edward, Godlove, and Godlisten took their roles seriously and led us with humble confidence.  I had no reservations placing my life in their competent hands.  They clearly had each other’s respect as well as the mutual respect of the porters.  I enjoyed learning about them and the mountain, and I have no doubt their sense of humor and kindness contributed significantly to the enjoyment of the adventure.

I can’t say enough about Thomson.  Thank you for arranging such an amazing vacation for us.

Charlie B.
Kilimanjaro Western Approach Route, September 2009

It was a bit hard to return to my  to my very hard-driving professional life in New York.  I keep thinking about the experience, and waves of images crowd my dreams.  In short, it was profoundly wonderful.

Michael F.
Kilimanjaro  Western Approach Route, January 2009

The Thomson Safari organization was absolutely first class.  Every detail of the trip was carefully planned and executed without a hitch.  We always felt our needs to see, explore and to understand all the strange and wonderful things we encountered, whether it be related to the wildlife or to the local culture, were satisfied.

Despite the fact that we camped in the wilderness, the manner in which our ‘creature comforts’ were maintained was truly remarkable:  the living arrangements were ingeniously great, the food superb, the service staff friendly and efficient. Throughout our trip we always felt safe and secure, escorted from the moment we got off the plane until we returned to the airport.

Finally, it was evident that your organization has a social conscience and values that we share. We were happy to see how many local people were employed, how the local artisans were used and promoted, the well provided for the village in the Serengeti, the efforts to help handicapped people, the respect for the environment: all these things made us happy.

Stuart G.
Classic Thomson Safari, October 2009

I am still so amazed and excited about the trip. I have traveled to 6 continents and this is one of the highlights of my life. I couldn’t have imagined a better experience.

All of the guides were great — leading at a pole, pole pace; giving a helping hand when needed; and ensuring we were eating and drinking enough.  Part way up the mountain I realized, as a single traveler, how lucky I was.

We all felt that Thomson was THE top rate group.

Leslee B.
Kilimanjaro Western Approach Route, February 2010

The Land Rovers were a far better vehicle than the Toyota Land Cruiser that we rode in to the hot-air balloon site: You can see out of the Land Rovers when sitting down, they are much roomier, and you can walk in the aisles. I didn’t realize how important the Land Rover was in the overall experience, although I knew that Thomson Safaris knew the importance. The Land Rovers really do distinguish Thomson from the other operators on the road.

Gary O.
Teen Family Thomson Safari, February 2009

Thomson should feel very proud of what they do as an organization to makes these trips so memorable. When I started out on this plan I thought it was a lot of money for what we were doing but I assumed Thomson would be one of the better companies to do business with. As it turned out it was incredible value for the money and everywhere we went Thomson was constantly recognized as the best which made all of us very happy we were with Thomson.

The Safari portion was a completely different experience but the way we were treated no different. Makinda, our head guide for this portion had an attachment for the land, his country and the animals he showed us in Ngorongoro Crater and the Serengeti. We were so well looked after and so educated about what we had seen that it will be a life experience for all of us. If I had to do it over again would I change anything? No.
Well done!

Julian C.
Kilimanjaro Umbwe Route, March 2009

Sandy U.
Classic Thomson Safari, September 2009

Whenever you investigate some kind of experience, be it a camp, a school, a company, a travel group etc., you always read their customer comments indicating how wonderful everything is. Because these are published by the entity hoping you will become a customer, you are always suspect when reading them. Why would any entity publish negative comments by a prior customer? In the case of Thomson, however, I will say that your customer’s comments regarding their satisfaction with their safari are either dead on or definitely understated. Whatever expectations we had about our safari were more than surpassed by our experience. In short, this is one of the greatest, if not the greatest, travel experiences our family has ever had.

Given that we have traveled throughout North America, Europe, Australia, parts of Asia etc. this is high praise indeed. To be fair, the country and people of Tanzania and the amazing wildlife had much to do with the “once in a lifetime” feel of the trip. It would be unfair, however, to diminish the impact traveling with Thomson contributed to the impact of the trip.

Romaney B.
Thomson Family Safari, December 2009

Besides the wildlife, I’d say the guides made the trip.  Leonard, Samson and Hashim were wonderful!  They each have their unique personalities, of course, but they each possess a great deal of warmth, humor and an incredible breadth of knowledge of wildlife, geography, history, and culture.

I’m always amazed at the bonding that occurs between a good guide and his clients over the span of days.  Upon departure at the small airfield before we boarded the small plane to Arusha on the last day, more than a few of us found our eyes tearing as we said farewell to our terrific trio.  Kisses and hugs were the order of the day.

Katherine A.
Highlights of Tanzania, January 2010

Our Kilimanjaro operations have been busy these past few months! Our latest endeavor involves a partnership with the C.H.E.K Institute to lead two challenged athletes, Erica Davis and Tara Butcher, to the top of Mt. Kilimanjaro. If Erica makes it, she will be the first female paraplegic to reach the summit. Both of the girls’ stories are inspiring (see the video below); their efforts and proceeds will benefit the Challenged Athletes Foundation. We’ll keep you updated on their climb, which begins next week.

Click here to view the embedded video.

Through the Roof – TEASER from Captured Life Productions on Vimeo.

Thomson Safaris was proud to be the official outfitter of the trekking group, Summit on the Summit. We successfully lead activists and celebrities such as Kenna, Jessica Biel, Emile Hirsch and Alexandra Cousteau, amongst others, to Kilimanjaro’s summit to raise awareness and funds for clean water initiatives in developing countries, including Tanzania. Donations from their efforts go to providing clean drinking water through The Children’s Safe Drinking Water Program, United Nations High Commission for Refugees (UNHCR), and Water For People’s Playpump Technology.

Katie, our Kilimanjaro coordinator, trekked along with this group. We’re happy to report that she made it to the summit too!

Our favorite non-profit organization, Friends of Tanzanian Schools, has recently broadened its scope to provide critical resources for local Tanzanian communities. Focus on Tanzanian Communities (FoTZC) supports many projects including women’s empowerment, clean water, and healthcare initiatives while continuing to focus on education projects.  www.fotzc.org

Katie, our Kilimanjaro Coordinator, is off to Mount Kilimanjaro today! She will be climbing the mountain again via the Umbwe Route. We’ll keep you posted on any news we receive from her trek and safari. Good luck, Katie!

Hello safari enthusiasts and Happy New Year! We are excited to launch our blog so that we can share some great safari and trekking stories from our guests and guides. Stay tuned for stories, photos and updates from Tanzania. As always, safari njema!