Usambara Mountains - Trekking around the staggeringly varied surrounds of Usambara has to be one of the most magical experiences Tanzania can offer. Exploration here could take you from tea plantations to crashing waterfalls, rainforest to semi-arid plains, spotting monkeys, birds and reptiles, and taking in stunning scenery and views along the way. Treks last from half a day - up to 4 days.

Mount Meru - This mountain reaches a staggering 4,566 metres, making it 1,329m shorter than Kilimanjaro. Climbing Meru, however, is steep, a real challenge and very rewarding. Accommodation is in mountain huts throughout, and Meru can be summited in just 4 days including acclimatisation (minimum climb for Kilimanjaro is usually 6 days).

One place where this can be found is amongst the Monduli Mountains. Just a couple of hours drive from Arusha, you will find a supremely serene world of grazing antelope, rolling hills, fresh air and staggering views - all populated by semi-nomadic Masai, herding their cattle for the best grazing just as they always have.

At Monduli you can do some gentle hiking, visit a traditional story-teller, stop by the local hospital, and at the end of the day camp close to a Masai village, where the tribe's members can stop by to prepare you a traditional "nyama choma" of barbecued goat meat for your evening meal.

You might consider Lukuba Island Lodge at the shores of Lake Victoria (a great base for bird spotting, mountain-biking and traditional fishing), Pangani on the northern shores of the country (boasting beautiful stretches of golden sand) or one of the surprisingly beautiful beach resorts on the Dar Es Salaam peninsula (conveniently located for those flying in and/or out of Dar).

Taking an alternative route on your returning journey means that you will get the opportunity to see much more unique scenery and surroundings. We can organise all hotel bookings and transfers, making your whole experience seamless from beginning to end. If you would like some ideas or advice on potential places that you could end your trip, then please just drop us an email

Though it may come as a surprise, we have had many clients in the past for whom spotting the "Big Five" was not the most important aspect of their safari! Check out some genuine examples below...

History buff? Why not follow in the footsteps of the German Colonialists, visiting the Dar Es Salaam national museum, stopping at missions and churches in Bagamoyo, German East Africa's original capital and a world heritage site, and see the Old German Station building in Moshi?

Love birding? We can take you to the ornithological hotspots across the country, pair you with a dedicated birding guide, and even book you into those accommodations where we know birdlife abounds.