Olduvai Gorge

Olduvai Gorge is a steep-sided ravine nestled within the vast expanse of the Great Rift Valley that stretches across eastern Africa. Situated in the Arusha Region of Tanzania, it extends approximately 48 kilometers (30 miles) in length and lies about 45 kilometers (28 miles) away from the renowned Laetoli archaeological site. Interestingly, the name “Olduvai” is a historical misspelling, with the correct term being “Oldupai Gorge,” officially adopted in 2005. “Oldupai” originates from the Maasai language, signifying the wild sisal plant Sansevieria ehrenbergii, which thrives in the gorge’s vicinity.

Within the boundaries of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Olduvai Gorge boasts the remarkable Zinjanthropus, an ancestral hominid figure. In 1959, Dr. Leaky made a groundbreaking discovery at Olduvai Gorge—the Zinj skull—an ancient hominid believed to have inhabited the Earth 1.8 million years ago. Furthermore, in the 1970s, Mary Leaky unearthed a captivating find at Laetoli, located approximately 45 kilometers to the south of Olduvai Gorge. Here, the footprints of early hominids and animals, dating back an astonishing 3.5 million years, were revealed.

In 1974, the excavation yielded fossils of a hominid tooth, providing insights into life approximately 2.4 million years ago. In a span between half a million and a million years ago, “Homo Erectus,” an early human ancestor, roamed the area, crafting and utilizing hand axes. The archaeological record at Olduvai contains numerous such tools, shedding light on the ingenuity of our ancestors.

The fossils discovered in Olduvai Gorge encompass a diverse array of more than 150 extinct mammal species, along with numerous avian, reptilian, amphibian, and aquatic species. An on-site museum serves as a repository of knowledge, offering valuable insights into the archaeological significance of these extraordinary discoveries. It is widely recognized that this region, Olduvai Gorge, holds a unique place as the “Cradle of Mankind.”

Night Game drive at Lake Manyara

The night game drive commences at the Lake Manyara National Park gate at 19:30. Upon arrival, you will be introduced to your knowledgeable guides and provided with a brief orientation regarding the “do’s and don’ts” for a night game drive. At around 20:00, your expedition sets off, venturing into the dense groundwater forest of Lake Manyara. The forest often plays host to porcupines, genets, and civet cats, making for frequent and intriguing encounters.

From the heart of the forest, your journey leads you downhill towards the lake, tracing the course of the Simba River to the hippo pools. Hippos, primarily active at night, offer a high likelihood of sighting these magnificent creatures as they graze along the roadside. Witnessing a hippo out of the water is a rare and captivating experience.

Your return route takes you through the groundwater forest once more, bringing you back to the park gate at approximately 22:30.

Canoeing at Lake Manyara

Visitors to Lake Manyara now have the unique opportunity to partake in waterside game viewing, an unprecedented experience. Within the tranquil, shallow waters of this stunning soda lake, guests silently paddle along the shoreline in two-person canoes. As they drift past the buffalo, giraffe, and elephants on the banks, and encounter the boisterous hippopotamus and captivating aquatic birdlife in the water, this adventure offers a truly extraordinary and unforgettable safari experience, allowing wildlife to be observed from an entirely new perspective. We call it “Wildlife from Water.”

Included in this experience are transfers to and from the launching site, which includes an en-route game drive. Guests can anticipate spending a total of one and a half to two hours on the water, led by a qualified and experienced guide. Quality two-person canoes, dry bags, backrests, paddles, and footwash facilities are also provided. The package encompasses transfers to and from Lake Manyara National Park.

Here’s what to expect: A knowledgeable guide will accompany you to the launching site, conveniently just a short walk from the hotel. There, you will board a stable two-person canoe. The guide will lead you along the lake’s shores, circumnavigating the entire area before returning to the launching site. During this leisurely paddle, you will have the opportunity to observe fascinating birdlife, bask in the breathtaking beauty of this secluded natural haven, and inhale the fresh African air.

The entire excursion has a duration of approximately 5 hours, with 1.5 to 2 hours dedicated to canoeing.

Tanzania’s Amazing Beaches for vacation

When visiting Tanzania, you absolutely must not miss the breathtaking selection of beaches that are truly mesmerizing! Bushbuck is your go-to organizer for your entire beach excursion, whether you desire a tranquil respite after your safari adventure or simply want to relax on pristine golden shores for as long as you wish. Tanzania, being situated so close to the equator, ensures a perpetually warm climate, making its beaches the perfect haven to revel in miles of powdery white sand and endless turquoise-blue waters.

These captivating beaches are only a short flight away from the Northern Safari Circuit or a mere 45-minute hop from the Southern Circuit, which is why many travelers opt to combine both experiences. Whether you seek refinement, solitude, or a chance to explore Tanzania’s marine wonders, you can rest assured that Tanzania has something special in store for you.

For those yearning for peace and tranquility, there’s no better escape than the shores of Zanzibar or the mainland coast of Tanzania. We highly recommend the Southern region near Dar es Salaam and the Sadaani National Park, where you’ll find beaches and islands close to Zanzibar, the Pemba Islands, and Mafia. These areas boast incredible marine biodiversity, making them excellent destinations for snorkeling and diving.

Another gem of breathtaking beauty is Vamizi Island, a picturesque paradise on the fringes of the Indian Ocean, featuring an expansive lagoon hugging its shores. If you’re in search of palm trees, pristine sands, golden beaches, and azure-colored seas, this is the place to be.

Zanzibar, with its alluring blend of incredible beaches and rich cultural heritage, is a must-visit destination. Explore Stone Town, boasting Arabian fortresses, and then unwind on the island’s unspoiled 100-kilometer stretch of powder-white beaches, bordered by barrier reefs along the Indian Ocean. The Eastern coast is where you’ll find the finest beaches, with coral thriving in its natural habitat. Although not the primary beach destination in Tanzania, the western side of Zanzibar still has some beautiful beaches around Kendwa. And don’t miss out on the delectable seafood when you visit!

For those in search of seclusion, the Southern region near Dar es Salaam is a spectacular choice. This area offers complete isolation amidst magnificent beach landscapes, making it a dream destination for honeymooners and solitude seekers.

If water sports are your passion, head to the Mafia and Pemba Islands or the beaches off the coast of Zanzibar. These locations boast incredible marine life and are perfect for diving, kite surfing, sailing, and snorkeling. The beaches are renowned for their splendor, with crystal-clear waters where you can spot fish darting along the shoreline, all under a backdrop of endless sunshine, azure seas, and powdery white sands.

For those seeking photographic opportunities that rival desert island fantasies, Pemba Island, Mafia Island, and Vamizi Island are absolute gems. Imagine capturing lagoons, barrier reefs, coral formations, endless stretches of soft, golden sands, and deep blue waters that seem to go on forever, all framed by swaying palm trees—a paradise for any photographer.

Exploring the Marvels of Ngorongoro Crater

Nestled within the expansive Ngorongoro Conservation Area, an awe-inspiring UNESCO World Heritage Site and International Biosphere Reserve, lies the Ngorongoro Crater, an area spanning nearly 8,300 square kilometers. When you embark on a journey here, your senses will be treated to breathtaking natural landscapes, captivating archaeological sites, and encounters with the local Maasai tribe, all set against the backdrop of an astonishing array of wildlife.

Safari Adventure in Ngorongoro Crater National Park

The Ngorongoro Crater, a geological masterpiece, takes center stage within the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Descending into the crater, you’ll be greeted by a remarkable spectacle of wildlife. This pristine habitat offers unparalleled opportunities to observe not only common animals but also rare and elusive creatures, such as the elusive black rhinoceros, amid diverse herds of wildlife.

The Ngorongoro Crater’s origin is rooted in ancient volcanic activity, dating back approximately 20 million years as part of the Rift Valley’s formation. The crater’s rim stands tall at 2,220 meters (1.4 miles), so it’s wise to pack a jacket or sweater for the cooler temperatures. The steep crater walls soar more than 600 meters above the crater floor, making it a truly enchanting destination that never fails to captivate every visitor.

Wildlife Wonders in Ngorongoro Crater

Within the boundaries of the Ngorongoro Crater, a thriving ecosystem shelters approximately 30,000 animals, including the famed “Big Five” – buffalo, elephants, leopards, lions, and rhinos. Beyond these iconic species, the crater teems with a rich tapestry of wildlife, including cheetahs, hartebeests, hippos, hyenas, jackals, reedbucks, warthogs, servals, waterbucks, wildebeests, zebras, and an astounding variety of bird species, not to mention a myriad of insects. Ngorongoro Crater is a wildlife enthusiast’s paradise, offering an unforgettable glimpse into the animal kingdom’s beauty and diversity.

Kilimanjaro Fundraising Expeditions

Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro in support of a charitable cause has become a widely embraced endeavor. It’s not just a remarkable personal achievement but also a powerful motivation to raise funds for those in need. Bushbuck Safaris collaborates closely with charitable organizations and can customize Kilimanjaro challenges tailored to your preferred cause.

Organizing Your Mount Kilimanjaro Climb for a Charitable Cause

The process is straightforward. First, you decide the type of Kilimanjaro expedition you wish to embark on. You can opt for a charity trip within our organized groups or request a private climb, whether for an individual or a group. There are three payment options to choose from:

1. Self-funding
2. Mixed-funding
3. Minimum sponsorship

Once you’ve determined your preferred payment route, inform us, and we will establish a formal agreement with your chosen charity for your Kilimanjaro charity challenge. Subsequently, your selected charity will reach out to you, providing a fundraising package to kickstart your campaign and offering strategies to meet your fundraising target.

We strongly recommend setting up an online fundraising account for its convenience. These platforms are not only easy to use but also offer tax benefits. Registration is swift, granting you a personalized page that you can customize to align with your Kilimanjaro challenge. Here are some options for online charity fundraising pages:

1. Virgin Money Giving
2. Just Giving
3. Bmycharity

From there, it’s your responsibility to spread the word. Utilize channels such as email, social media, events, collections, raffles, engagement with local schools, or involvement with your workplace. Numerous avenues exist to reach potential supporters, ensuring that you raise sufficient funds to undertake the Mount Kilimanjaro challenge while making a significant impact on the lives of others and achieving a monumental personal goal.

Optimal Nutrition for Your Mountain Climb

Prior to embarking on any mountain ascent, it’s paramount to prioritize proper nutrition to meet your body’s demands. Ensuring that you consume adequate calories to fuel your climb and maintaining a well-rounded diet is essential. Here’s a guide to help you make the right dietary choices:

Caloric Intake: Consume sufficient calories to provide the energy required for the climb. Opt for a variety of foods, emphasizing good protein sources, complex carbohydrates, antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables, and fiber-rich whole grains.

Hydration: Adequate fluid intake is crucial. Aim to drink 2 liters of water per day before your climb, increasing it to 3 to 4 liters daily during the ascent. Start hydrating well in advance of your climb.

Diet and Fitness: Commence your dietary and fitness regimen as early as possible, as they complement each other in ensuring good hiking health.

Nutrient-Rich Choices: Choose nourishing foods and beverages as they provide energy for muscles, enhance endurance, aid muscle recovery, and reduce the risk of injury. Additionally, a well-balanced diet supports a robust immune system, reducing the likelihood of illness.

Fruits & Vegetables: Opt for brightly colored varieties such as yellow, orange, dark green, and red fruits and vegetables, as they provide essential vitamins A and C. Freshly squeezed fruit juice is preferable to concentrate.

Carbohydrates: Stock up on carbohydrates, including whole wheat pasta, rice, bread, cereals (low in sugar), corn, barley, and oats. Prioritize whole grains for their superior nutritional value, fortified with vitamins, minerals, and fiber.

Protein: Protein is essential for muscle repair and contains vital minerals like zinc, iron, and magnesium. Include lean meats, fresh oily fish, beans, lentils, nuts, seeds, and tofu in your diet.

Dairy or Alternatives: Milk or soy milk (or suitable alternatives) supply calcium, vitamins A, D, and B12, protein, and healthy fats. Calcium and Vitamin D support bone density, crucial when carrying a backpack for extended periods. Opt for low-fat dairy options.

Hydration: Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is an endurance test, making hydration imperative. Begin with well-hydrated body as you’ll lose fluid during the climb. Consume ample fluids before pre-climb training, during training, and afterward to replace lost fluid. Be cautious of electrolyte loss through sweating, and some sports drinks can help replenish these lost electrolytes. However, drinking 3 to 4 liters of water daily during the climb should suffice.

Supplements: While supplements can be considered, consult your GP for guidance, as essential vitamins and minerals should ideally come from your daily food intake. A high-quality multivitamin is a recommended supplement.

By adhering to a balanced and nutritious diet, you’ll ensure your body is well-prepared for the demands of climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, enhancing your chances of a successful and enjoyable ascent.

Addressing Health Concerns During Your Mount Kilimanjaro Expedition

When embarking on a Mount Kilimanjaro climbing adventure, it’s essential to be aware of potential health issues that some climbers may encounter. When you book one of our mountain expeditions, we provide comprehensive information on first aid and a health guide to ensure your safety and well-being.

**Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS)**

AMS, sometimes referred to as “Altitude Sickness,” can manifest with symptoms such as nausea, headache, exhaustion, rapid pulse, lassitude, insomnia, swelling of hands and feet, and a reduction in urine output. This condition typically occurs at very high altitudes, such as the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. It can be swiftly treated by descending to a lower altitude, often just a drop of 500 meters is sufficient to alleviate symptoms. Preventive measures include maintaining a slow pace, allowing an extra day for acclimatization, and staying hydrated with 3 to 4 liters of water daily. Preventative medication is also available and should be discussed with your doctor. In severe cases, AMS can lead to edema, potentially causing lung problems and brain tissue swelling, emphasizing the importance of understanding and addressing this condition.

**Hypothermia**

Hypothermia is characterized by symptoms such as shivering (which may stop if severe), slurred speech, clumsy actions, confusion, and fatigue. It occurs when the body’s temperature drops significantly and can be avoided with proper clothing and equipment. To prevent hypothermia, it’s crucial to keep clothing dry, whether from perspiration or rain, and layering clothing is highly effective. Treatment involves moving the affected person to a sheltered area, removing wet clothing, and placing them in three sleeping bags with another person to help raise body temperature.

**Sunburn and Snow Blindness**

Even on cloudy and cold days, the sun’s rays penetrate clouds, posing a risk of sunburn. Sunburn is more severe at higher altitudes due to decreased ultraviolet light filtering. Protect your skin with a high-factor sunblock (SPF 30+) at lower altitudes, and total sunblock above 3,000 meters. Wear sunglasses with side panels to safeguard your eyes. Sunburn can lead to dehydration, so staying well-hydrated is essential. Additionally, climbers should be cautious of snow blindness and may need to bandage their eyes for at least 24 hours.

**Foot Problems**

Wearing suitable footwear is paramount. Ill-fitting or unworn boots can lead to foot pain and blistering. Keep toenails trimmed to prevent them from rubbing against socks. If a blister forms, treat it with appropriate plaster or zinc oxide tape.

**Fitness**

Prior to attempting to climb Mount Kilimanjaro, it’s advisable to consult your physician, especially if you have cardiac or lung issues. Physical fitness is crucial for a successful climb, and adequate preparation is key to a safe and enjoyable expedition.

Mount Kilimanjaro Hiking

Mount Kilimanjaro, often referred to as “The Rooftop of Africa,” proudly stands at an impressive altitude of 5,895 meters, making it one of the world’s most renowned tourist destinations. This iconic mountain offers accessibility to climbers of varying experience levels, thanks to specially designed routes that cater to a wide range of adventurers, all the way to the rim of its majestic crater. For the more determined mountaineers and seasoned trekkers, reaching Uhuru Point (the summit) or Gillman’s Point (the crater’s edge) is an achievable feat. Conquering the summit is an achievement that earns climbers a coveted Kilimanjaro Climbing Certificate.

While some routes are suitable for novice climbers, it’s essential for anyone aspiring to climb Mount Kilimanjaro to be in good physical condition.

Situated in close proximity to Moshi town, Mount Kilimanjaro is a protected area that casts its snowy peaks over the Tanzanian hills and the Northern Plateau. On clear, sunny days, the mountain’s slopes and glaciers are visible from afar. The mountain itself is a captivating ecosystem, with its lower slopes adorned with farmland where farmers cultivate coffee beans, cassava, maize, and bananas.

As you ascend, you’ll encounter Kilimanjaro National Park, enveloped in lush, vibrant forests that gradually transform into expansive mountainous grasslands. The vistas during both the ascent and descent are nothing short of breathtaking, offering views of the Rift Valley, Maasai Steppe, and Amboseli National Park. Upon reaching the peak, Africa unfolds before your eyes, though the terrain here is rocky, devoid of much vegetation, and predominantly cloaked in snow and ice.

Kilimanjaro Climbing Routes

A variety of routes cater to different preferences and challenges:

1. Machame
2. Rongai
3. Marangu
4. Londorossi
5. Umbwe
6. Lemosho
7. Shira
8. Mweka (primarily for descending the mountain)

Each of these routes offers a unique perspective and experience, ensuring that Mount Kilimanjaro’s allure remains as diverse as the adventurers who seek to conquer it.

Preparing for Your Mount Kilimanjaro Adventure

If conquering Mount Kilimanjaro has been your lifelong dream, meticulous preparation is key to ensuring a successful and memorable journey. While you’re responsible for organizing your climbing gear and equipment, we will provide communal items such as cooking utensils, food, and tents. To help you get ready, here’s a suggested checklist of specific clothing and other essentials:

**Clothing:**

1. Hooded waterproof and breathable jacket
2. Synthetic or down-filled insulated jacket
3. Fleece or lightweight jacket
4. Long-sleeve technical lightweight shirts
5. Short-sleeve technical lightweight shirts
6. Waterproof, breathable trousers
7. Two pairs of hiking trousers
8. One pair of fleece trousers
9. Thermal underwear
10. Optional shorts
11. Sunhat
12. Woolly hat
13. Balaclava
14. Waterproof thick climbing gloves
15. Regular gloves
16. Hiking boots
17. Trainers
18. Three pairs of thick socks
19. Waterproof gaiters
20. UV protection sunglasses
21. UV protection goggles

**Gear and Equipment:**

– Water bottle (32 ounces)

– Lightweight towel

– Plastic bags of various sizes

– Sleeping bag

– Collapsible trekking poles

– Headlamp (plus batteries)

– 50 to 90-liter duffle bag

– 30 to 35-liter daypack

– Toiletries (including sunscreen, lip balm, insect repellent, first aid kit, hand sanitizer, wet wipes, camera)

**Other Items:**

– High-calorie, high-energy snacks

– Passport and Visa

– Immunization papers

– Insurance documents

It’s important not to overpack, as our porters can carry up to 15 kg per person from campsite to campsite. All your belongings, including the sleeping bag, must be placed in your duffle bag. If you have excess baggage, we kindly request that you hire an additional porter from us.

**Don’t:**

– Bring alcohol

– Bring water in recyclable plastic bottles

**Tips!**

– Prepare for the possibility of checked-in baggage getting lost; wear essential climbing gear on the plane, as some items may not be available in Tanzania.

– In your hand luggage, carry your backpack, waterproof pants, jacket, insulated jacket, fleeces, toiletries, medication, paperwork, and camera.

– Check in your trekking poles, as they are not allowed on airplanes.

– While there are rental shops in Moshi near Mount Kilimanjaro, they may not replace all lost items, and some items may be second-hand and less sturdy than those from your home country.

With proper preparation and attention to detail, your Mount Kilimanjaro adventure will be an unforgettable and rewarding experience.