HUMANITARIAN SAFARI

Drill A Clean Water Well

At the core of every Humanitarian Safari is the installation of a clean water well using the H3 custom-designed human-powered drill. This is the moment where philanthropy meets the earth, providing a sustainable source of life for an entire community. Rather than observing from a distance, guests are invited to stand at the heart of the action. With your own two hands you can participate in the immediate and permanent transformation of communities who receive clean, drinkable water.

Learn more about why we drill clean water wells and their ability to reduce water-related disease, reduce child and infant deaths due to water-related disease, enable young women to attend school, reduce susceptibilty to violent crimes against young women, and provide sustainable crops in areas of extreme poverty.

Deliver Feminine Hygiene Kits

In many developing regions, such as Tanzania, the onset of puberty marks a difficult crossroads for young women. Without access to reliable hygiene products, girls often miss up to five days of school every month, leading to significant educational gaps and a high rate of dropouts. The distribution of Days for Girls reusable feminine hygiene kits provides a sustainable, long-term solution to this barrier, ensuring that 100 to 300 young women at each site receive the tools and knowledge necessary to stay in the classroom and have greater confidence to participate in society. Learn more about the impact of Days For Girls Feminine Hygiene Kits.

The women in the travel group lead supportive educational sessions for girls in their “tweens” and teens at selected primary and secondary schools. This is often a school where a clean water well has been installed, so you could have more than one day to interact with the same children. These presentations offer practical instruction on the use of reusable menstrual cups, essential guidance regarding feminine hygiene and reproductive health, and encouragement to prioritize their futures, focusing on self-respect and the benefits of abstinence to ensure they reach their full academic and personal potential.

Simultaneously, the men in the travel group lead a parallel session for the young men of the school. This conversation focuses on respecting and honoring the women in their community. The men may also discuss topics of their future such as their choice of career, the possibility of starting a business, and becoming responsible husbands and fathers. By giving these presentations, the hope is that they can become successful and then give back to their communities, making this a perpetual program.

Serve Primary School Lunches

Food insecurity is a constant challenge for many children in Tanzania. During the Humanitarian Safari, guests step into the heart of a school’s daily operations to provide lunch for between 100 to 300 students. This is often at the same school where a clean water well has been installed, giving you more opportunities to interact with these wonderful children and see the joy on their faces as they receive food and a small toy. After lunch is served guests might spend the rest of the afternoon playing with the children. Learn more about the details of serving primary school lunches.

Providing these lunches is a humanitarian gesture that enhances the “striking of water” celebration. They play a vital role in celebrating the new, life-changing access to clean water that will serve these children for years to come. It is an invitation for travelers and donors to see the immediate, human impact of their presence.

Volunteer at H3 Orphanage

As the only home operated directly by Hearts and Hands for Humanity, this facility represents a deep, long-term commitment to the most vulnerable children in the region. Guests often find that the “safari” takes a backseat to the profound emotional bond formed within minutes of arriving at the home.

Volunteering here is not about complex tasks; it is about the power of being present. The children at the H3 Orphanage have a remarkable capacity for joy and resilience, and they welcome visitors with an openness that is life-changing for the traveler.

Spend time playing with the children, or helping with much-needed chores such as washing their clothing. These moments of individual attention are cherished by the residents and offer guests a true sense of love for these children in need.

Learn more about the H3 Orphanage and the current fundraisers to improve this facility.

Volunteer at Neema Village

Neema Village is a baby rescue center in Moshi, Tanzania. Hearts and Hands for Humanity drilled a clean water well for them, well #11, which has provided them with clean, drinkable water that they use to give the babies formula and clean clothes.

As part of an ongoing partnership with them, H3 Humanitarian Safari groups can volunteer, which simply involves showing love for these babies by holding them, playing with them and feeding them. This special experience is often a favorite highlight for many of our travelers.

Learn more about Neema Village and Well #11.

Visit Mully Children’s Family (**Optional Addon)

Mully Children’s Family (MCF) is an orphanage that was established by Charles Mulli, an inspired man who was abandoned as a child and wanted to do something to save orphans from the slums of Kenya. They currently have 11 locations in Kenya and Tanzania and are also known as “The Worlds Largest Family”. Their program provides more than just shelter — it provides a future. Through a holistic approach to housing and vocational training, children are empowered with the skills needed to thrive. Currently, Hearts and Hands for Humanity supports this mission by installing clean water wells to sustain these growing communities. Learn more about Clean Water Wells for Mully Children’s Family.

Staying at an MCF facility provides a unique look at the impact of their vocational training. In east Africa, tourism is a cornerstone of the economy, and many residents refine their hospitality skills right on-site with guests who stay at the facility. The guest accommodations are thoughtfully designed and managed, often exceeding the standard of the residents’ own quarters—a testament to the Kenyan spirit of “Karibu” (welcome). All dining and lodging are provided at the facility during this portion of the journey.

A visit to MCF is an invitation to witness resilience in action. Days are spent volunteering within a variety of vibrant programs, including agriculture, home service trades, pottery, art, performing arts and more. Guests are often treated to moving showcases of music and dance by the students.

Visiting Mully Children’s Family is an optional addon to the standard 10-day package. Crossing the border from Tanzania to Kenya will also require a Kenya Visa. Contact us to discuss custom pricing for this add-on.

LDS Temple Trip, Nairobi, Kenya (**Optional Addon)

Hearts and Hands for Humanity is not affiliated with The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. However, there are enough donors who are members of the Church to merit making this an optional trip add-on.

Most itinerary options take place in Tanzania. Since the nearest LDS temple is in Nairobi, Kenya, it might also make sense to combine this option with a visit to Mully Children’s Family at one of their 11 locations in Kenya, especially if you are donating towards Clean Water Wells for Mully Children’s Family.

If your group selects this option and there is room on the bus, then we can arrange for local members of the Church to attend the temple with you. This will be an eternal blessing for them since many are not able to pay for the trip on their own and some may never attend the temple otherwise. You can also sponsor more members or additional buses if you choose.

The Nairobi Temple is located in an enclosed compound and they have a visitor center with distribution services, lodging and a play place for children. Adults can attend temple ordinances while younger members of the group are safe and supervised.

While this optional add-on is listed under the “Humanitarian” section, all temple trip expenses are deemed as “non-charitable”. Crossing the border from Tanzania to Kenya will require a Kenya Visa, and this itinerary option might involve additional lodging expenses. Contact us to discuss custom pricing for this add-on.

Since the 10-day trip will include one or two Sundays, we can also arrange for you to attend Church services with a local LDS branch.

Helping anyone in the group attend Sunday church services at a local congregation is something that can be done regardless of their religious denomination, as long as their denomination has a meeting within a reasonable distance.

Additional Humanitarian Information

With every trip to Africa we try to maximize the humanitarian impact. Most plane tickets to Africa will allow you to take three bags and a carry-on. With smart packing, you’ll only need one bag. Those who travel with us will usually pack the additional bags with various donations, such as Days For Girls Feminine Hygiene Kits, school supplies, laptop computers, clothes, blankets or anything else you might think to donate. Some travelers like to bring candy that they can give to children while the bus is stopped along various places along our travel routes. This simple act of kidness can brighten their day and give them a positive memory that they might keep forever. Then, once your spare baggage has been emptied, you could choose to fill them with souvenirs or donate the bags themselves to someone in need.

If there are open hours on the intinerary then there is no shortage of service opportunities to fill the day. Other humanitarian services could include:

• Painting a school
• Having an art session with orphans
• Delivering computer donations and training school staff on how to use the computers
• Various construction projects
• Gardening or planting trees
• And more.

Attending Church Services: Naturally, a 10-day trip or more will include one or two Sundays. If anyone in your group wants to attend local church services then we can help make it happen if your denomination has meeting services within a reasonalble distance.

If you have something in mind that you’d like to add to your itinerary then let us know. We will always try to help customize the trip to make it just right for your group.

2-Day African Safari:

The Great Wildlife Adventure in Tarangire and Ngorongoro

The transition from humanitarian service to the wonders of the African wilderness is a breathtaking experience. Over two days, the journey moves through two of the most iconic landscapes in East Africa, offering an intimate look at the continent’s most majestic creatures.

The Giants of Tarangire

The adventure begins in Tarangire National Park, famous for its massive elephant herds and ancient, towering baobab trees. As the Tarangire River provides the primary water source for the region, the park becomes a vibrant corridor for wildlife. It is the perfect introduction to the bush, where lions, giraffes, zebras, wildebeest, over 500 species of birds, and other exotic animals thrive among the silhouettes of the “Tree of Life.”

The Ngorongoro Crater

The second day descends into the Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the world’s largest inactive volcanic caldera. Often described as a “natural zoo,” the crater floor provides a sanctuary for nearly every species found in East Africa.

In Search of the Big Five

This two-day circuit offers an incredible opportunity to check the “Big Five” off the bucket list: the Lion, Leopard, Elephant, Buffalo, and Rhino. The Ngorongoro Crater, in particular, is one of the few places left on earth where the rare Black Rhino can be spotted in its natural habitat, which can help complete the set for lucky travelers. One of the only times some of our travelers spotted a leopard was also while they were descending the Ngorongoro Crater. And if you want an even better chance at crossing off the Big 5, or at seeing other species, then consider the Serengeti add-on.

The Safari Experience: Comfort and Seamless Logistics

Wildlife viewing is conducted with a focus on both luxury and safety. Every detail of the vehicle and guidance is designed to ensure a seamless, world-class experience.

The Vehicle: Travel occurs in a custom-fitted Toyota Land Cruiser, specifically engineered for the African bush. The vehicle seats up to 6-7 passengers and includes a fridge, Wifi, and power outlets.

The Pop-Top Advantage: The vehicle features a specialized pop-top roof, allowing the passengers to stand up for 360-degree, unobstructed views. This allows for immersive viewing and photography while maintaining a safe and respectful distance from the animals.

Experienced Drivers: A dedicated, highly experienced driver remains with the group for both days. Beyond navigating the rugged terrain, the driver is adept at tracking wildlife (by conversing with other drivers in route to be aprised of latest sightings) and finding the best locations to observe the wildlife. The driver manages all transitions, providing door-to-door service to and from the lodging both days.

At the conclusion of the safari, it is customary to provide a personal tip to the driver as a gesture of appreciation for their expertise and service. Please note that this gratuity is handled individually and is separate from the package pricing listed below.

Chugga Caves Tour

Nestled in the lush foothills of Mt. Kilimanjaro, a visit to the Chagga Caves offers a fascinating glimpse into the ingenuity and resilience of Tanzania’s mountain people. This area provides a striking contrast to the vast savanna, characterized by verdant rain forests and the thundering beauty of the nearby Ndoro Waterfalls.

The People of the Mountain

To understand the history of this region, it is essential to distinguish between the two most prominent ethnic groups in northern Tanzania: the Maasai and the Chagga.

• The Maasai: Traditionally nomadic pastoralists known for their vibrant red cloaks and presence on the open plains.
• The Chagga: Historically mountain-dwellers and skilled agriculturists who have called the fertile slopes of Kilimanjaro home for centuries.

A Hidden Underground Legacy

The Chagga Caves are not natural formations; they are an extraordinary feat of manual engineering. Historically, these elaborate underground tunnel systems were hand-carved by the Chagga people to serve as secret dwellings and defensive fortifications.

Defense and Ingenuity: The caves were designed to protect families and livestock from Maasai raids during periods of tribal conflict. The tunnels include ventilation shafts, living quarters, and even areas for cattle.

A Guided Journey: Exploring these cool, dark corridors reveals the sophisticated methods the Chagga used to remain hidden and self-sufficient for weeks at a time.

Experience the Culture

This excursion provides a deeper appreciation for the diversity of Tanzanian culture. Moving from the plains of the Maasai to the volcanic slopes of the Chagga highlights the varied ways of life that thrive in the shadow of Africa’s highest peak, Mt Kilimanjaro.

After the tour of the caves as well as traditional living huts above ground, the group is served an authentic Swahili lunch, which some of our travelers say is their favorite meal of the trip.

Ndoro Waterfalls

Hidden within the verdant canopy of the Kilimanjaro foothills, the hike to Ndoro Waterfalls is a journey into a lush, tropical paradise. Fed by the glacial runoff of Africa’s highest peak, the falls plunge into a serene pool surrounded by sheer rock faces and vibrant flora, offering a refreshing escape from the Tanzanian sun.

The Trek and Terrain: The path to the falls is an immersive nature walk, though it requires a bit of agility. The hike features a significant elevation change, with sections that are quite steep and potentially slippery depending on recent rainfall, which is why walking sticks are provided near the top of the trail.

Local Life: As the trail winds down the valley, look across to the opposite slopes. You may observe local residents in their daily routines, tending to small hillside farms and homes that have been part of this landscape for generations.

Guided Assistance and Etiquette

Navigating the steeper portions of the trail is often made easier by local guides who know every foothold and turn. It is common for local guides to “volunteer” their assistance during the more challenging parts of the hike in exchange for a tip at the end. This gesture of appreciation is customary and is handled directly by the traveler (This is separate from the standard package pricing).

The Reward at the Bottom

The effort of the hike is quickly rewarded upon reaching the base of the falls. The sound of the thundering water and the cool, mist-filled air provide a perfect setting for photography or a few moments of quiet reflection before the trek back up. Travelers can choose to simply enjoy the scenery or even take a dip in the water. It can be chilly, but it is also exhilarating and very refreshing!

Maasai Market: Authentic Art and Rare Gems

A visit to the Maasai Market is a sensory immersion into the heart of Tanzanian craftsmanship. This vibrant open-air marketplace serves as a central hub for local artisans to showcase their work, offering travelers a premier opportunity to bring home a tangible piece of East African culture.

Artistry and Craftsmanship

The market is a treasure trove of hand-made goods, ranging from intricate bead work and hand-carved ebony sculptures to vibrant “Kitenge” fabrics and traditional Maasai blankets. Each piece tells a story of heritage and skill, and purchasing directly from the creators ensures that the economic impact of your visit remains within the local community.

The Experience of Trade

The market is more than just a place to shop; it is a space for cultural exchange.

The Art of Negotiation: Haggling is a customary and friendly part of the experience. It is a social interaction where a smile and a fair counter-offer go a long way in establishing a connection with the artisans.

Support Local Artisans: Whether looking for a simple hand-painted ornament or a sophisticated piece of jewelry, these purchases directly support the livelihoods of the families and creators met during the journey. See also African Art Studio.

The Rarity of Tanzanite

Tanzania is the only place on Earth where Tanzanite is found. This striking blue-violet gemstone, mined in the foothills of Mt. Kilimanjaro, is a thousand times rarer than diamonds.

The Best Resource for Quality and Affordablility: Navigating the gemstone market requires expertise. Through a dedicated local partnership, guests gain access to a premier resource for purchasing pure, high-quality Tanzanite. This connection allows travelers to acquire ethically sourced stones affordably, bypassing the typical retail markups found in the West while ensuring the authenticity and certification of every gem.

Hike Mt. Kilimanjaro (**Optional Addon)

For those with an adventurous heart, Kilimanjaro is often described as “Every Man’s Everest” (or woman). It is the highest free-standing mountain on Earth, yet it remains one of the most accessible of the world’s Seven Summits because it requires no technical climbing skills—no ropes, no harnesses, and no previous mountaineering experience.

There are two optional addons to the standard 10-day Humanitarian Safari package: a 1-Day Mt. Kilimanjaro Hike and a 7-Day Mt. Kilimanjaro Hike.

Whether you choose the 1-day trek to touch the mountain’s hem or the 7-day quest for the summit, standing on the slopes of Kilimanjaro is a badge of honor. It is a journey that reminds us to keep moving forward even if it’s only at a slow and steady pace – “Pole, pole to the top” (pronounced po-lay).

There are 6 different trails that are approved by Mt Kilimanjaro National Park to reach the Peak of Uhuru, also known as the “Roof of Africa”.

The most common route that we take for the 1-Day Hike is the Marangu Route. Hikers will ascend through the lush montane rainforest to the first checkpoint, Mandara Hut, reaching an elevation of approximately 2,700 meters or 8,858 feet, and then return back down the slope. The total hike is about 10 miles (5 miles there and back). It takes 3-4 hours to ascend and 2-3 hours to descend – pole, pole (slow and steady).

The most common route that we take for the 7-Day Hike is the Shira Route, passing through five distinct climate zones: from tropical rainforest at the base to the heath, moorland, alpine desert, and finally the arctic summit. We reach the summit on the morning of the 6th day and some of the faster hikers will actually see the sunrise from the top. The 5+ days that it takes to ascend the mountain is designed to help you acclimate to the different altitudes. After reaching the summit we descend the mountain in two days. The highest point reached is 5,895 meters or 19,341 feet. The hike is approximately 35 miles. The oldest hiker that we’ve had reach the summit is 89 years old; the youngest is 7 years old.

You are never alone on this trek. You’ll be accompanied by an expert team of guides and porters who manage all the logistics—allowing you to focus entirely on the mental and physical challenge of the climb.

At the end of the trek it is customary to tip the guides and porters. This is separate from the package pricing listed below.

Groups who would like to include one of these options as an add-on to their trip can find more information below, especially for the 7-Day Hike, including an itinerary, packing information and more, under Plan Your Trip.

Serengeti (**Optional Addon)

For those who want to venture deeper into the quintessential African wilderness, extending the two-day safari to include the Serengeti National Park is an unparalleled choice. While the standard safari offers a spectacular look at Tarangire National Park and the Ngorongoro Crater, the Serengeti provides the vast, “endless plains” that have made Tanzania the premier wildlife destination on earth.

The Vastness of the Plains

The word “Serengeti” comes from the Maasai language, meaning “the place where the land moves on forever.” Extending your trip allows you to experience the sheer scale of this ecosystem.

The Big Five and Beyond: While the Ngorongoro Crater is known for its high density of animals, the Serengeti offers the chance to see wildlife in its most natural, migratory state. It is one of the best places in Africa to spot elusive leopards draped over acacia branches and prides of lions lounging on massive granite kopjes (rock formations).

The Great Migration: Depending on the time of year, an extension may put you in the path of the Great Migration—a breathtaking spectacle where over two million wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles traverse the plains in search of fresh grazing.

An Immersive Wilderness Experience

Spending extra nights in the Serengeti changes the rhythm of the safari:

The Sound of the African Night: Staying at a lodge or luxury tented camp inside the park boundaries allows you to fall asleep to the distant “whoop” of hyenas and the deep roar of lions. It is a sensory immersion that a shorter trip simply cannot match.

Sunrise over the Savannah: An extension gives you the opportunity for early-morning game drives when the predators are most active. Watching the sun break over the horizon while a herd of elephants silhouettes against the orange sky is a “must-do” for any photography enthusiast.

Expertly Guided Exploration

The drive into the Serengeti is a journey in itself, passing through the Ngorongoro Conservation Area and providing glimpses of Maasai life along the way. With more days on the ground, the guides have the flexibility to track specific sightings and venture into quieter corners of the park, far from other vehicles.

Extending the trip to include Serengeti is an optional add-on to the standard 10-day Humanitarian Safari. Contact us to discuss custom pricing for this add-on.

Island of Zanzibar (**Optional Addon)

After the early mornings and dusty tracks of the Savanna, many travelers choose to conclude their journey on the “Spice Island” of Zanzibar. This extension offers a seamless transition from the rugged African bush to the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean, providing the perfect environment to reflect on the humanitarian work and wildlife encounters of the previous days.

The Journey to the Island: Getting to Zanzibar is a quick and convenient domestic flight. These depart regularly from Arusha or Kilimanjaro International Airport, whisking you away to the island in under 90 minutes.

Cultural Heritage in Stone Town: Most visits begin in Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the soul of the island.

A Living Museum: Wander through a labyrinth of narrow alleys lined with historic coral-stone buildings and the famous intricately carved Zanzibari doors.

The Night Market: In the evenings, the Forodhani Gardens transform into a vibrant street food market. Here, you can sample local favorites like “Zanzibar Pizza” and fresh seafood skewers while watching local acrobats dive into the harbor at sunset.

History and Spices: Explore the island’s aromatic legacy with a tour of a local spice farm, or visit the sobering historical sites that mark Zanzibar’s role in the global spice and ivory trades.

Pristine Beaches and Marine Life:

Beyond the history of the city lies some of the world’s most beautiful coastline.

Nungwi and Kendwa: Located on the northern tip of the island, these beaches are famous for their white sands and deep blue waters that remain swimmable regardless of the tide.

Underwater Discovery: The reefs surrounding Mnemba Atoll offer world-class snorkeling and diving, where you can swim alongside sea turtles and vibrant schools of tropical fish.

The Red Colobus Monkey: For one more wildlife encounter, a visit to the Jozani Forest offers a chance to see the rare Red Colobus monkey, a species found nowhere else on Earth.

Visiting Zanaibar is optional add-on to the standard 10-Day Humanitarian Safari package. Contact us to plan this portion of the trip and get custom pricing.

Transportation

Transportation is included with the standard package and trip upgrades, from geginning to end, airport pickup to airport drop off.

The entire group travels together by tour bus throughout the entire trip, except during the 2-day African Safari (where the larger group is separated into groups of 6 or 7). Most groups consist of 10-40 travelers, for which 1-2 buses is sufficient. Yet, the largest group we’ve served had 120 people.

Since some bus rides can last for 1-4 hours; this becomes a great bonding opportunity for the group or it can give travelers time for a much-needed nap after a hard-day’s work (or fun).

Even outside of the national parks that we visit during the 2-Day Safari, there is a chance to see wildlife off the highway, and during those sightings drivers will pull over to let the group observe and take photos.

You’ll get to know your bus drivers well, especially Shakuru, who is one of our local trip managers. They are all experienced and vetted by Hearts and Hands and our network of partners.

At the end of the trip it is customary to give the drivers a tip, which is seperate from the package pricing listed below.

Local Dining

All meals are included with the standard package and trip upgrades.

Many of the breakfasts and boxed lunches are provided by the hospitality of the hotels and lodges where the group is staying. Hotels can also provide dinners, especially during the 2-Day Safari. On evenings when the hotel is not providing a meal, the group visits local establishments that remain largely unknown to the average traveler. These restaurants lack the massive marquee signs typical of American dining; instead, they are identified through the deep “boots on the ground” connections and local partnerships maintained by the team. These meals are among the most memorable.

The journey to one of these restaurants leads through one of the largest sugar cane farms in Tanzania, an expansive agricultural landscape that defines the region’s economy. On the drive you might be lucky enough to see wildlife on the side of the road, or when you get there you can walk to a line of trees at the edge of their property to see an entire family of monkeys.

More than one location features large grass ball fields, giving families and children space to run and play until dinner is served. At another location you might have the opportunity to witness a live soccer game played on an adjoining field.

The culinary focus is on authentic local cuisine, carefully vetted to ensure it is safe for Americans and international guests. For those seeking a taste of home, one of the locations even features high-quality American-style pizza, providing a familiar comfort after a long day in the bush. Whether sampling traditional Tanzanian flavors or enjoying a classic slice, these meals are about more than just food—they are an extension of the adventure.

Springlands Hotel, Moshi Tanzania

Springlands Hotel is located in the town of Moshi, approximately 43 km from Kilimanjaro National Park, and serves as a quiet and secure base for much of the journey.

A long-standing relationship exists between Hearts and Hands for Humanity and the Springlands team. They admire the humanitarian work that we provide and they extend a high level of care and attention to every guest in the travel group. This partnership ensures a seamless transition between the village project sites and the comfort of the hotel.

The hotel is designed to provide a restful environment after a day of service or exploration. Unlike larger commercial resorts, it primarily caters to safari-goers and mountain trekkers, maintaining a sense of privacy.

Rooms are equipped with essential amenities, including private bathrooms with hot showers, air conditioning, and windows. The beds are fitted with mosquito netting for a peaceful night’s rest.

The property features a large swimming pool, indoor and outdoor bars, and tropical gardens. The communal seating areas offer a perfect space for the group to gather and discuss the day’s experiences.

The hotel provides a consistent dining experience, serving breakfast and boxed lunches with a variety of fresh, local ingredients. The staff is known for being exceptionally warm and professional, contributing to the sense of safety and hospitality that travelers value during their stay.

Farm of Dreams Lodge, Karatu, Tanzania

Farm of Dreams Lodge is one of three possible lodging options while on the 2-day safari depending on group size and vacancies.

Located in the vibrant town of Karatu, the Farm of Dreams Lodge serves as a peaceful oasis during the two-day safari. Situated on the slopes of the Ngorongoro Highlands, this lodge offers sweeping views of the rolling hills and sits in the heart of the gateway to the Ngorongoro Crater.

The lodge is known for its expansive gardens filled with tropical flowers and organic vegetables. The property is designed to feel like a tranquil retreat, providing a beautiful contrast to the rugged terrain of the safari tracks.

Guests stay in spacious, independent cottages featuring traditional thatched roofs. Each room opens onto a private terrace or balcony with safari chairs, perfect for enjoying the cool highland breeze.

The rooms prioritize rest, featuring premium bedding, mosquito netting, and large en-suite bathrooms with hot showers. Interconnecting rooms are available, making this a convenient choice for families traveling together.

After a day of wildlife viewing, travelers can unwind in the large outdoor swimming pool or the dedicated children’s pool. The property also features a playground and garden paths that are a favorite for younger guests.

Dining at the lodge is a highlight of the stay. The kitchen maintains its own farm, sourcing fresh herbs and seasonal vegetables directly from the property. The on-site restaurant serves a mix of international and Tanzanian dishes, often featuring buffet-style meals that cater to a variety of dietary preferences. Whether enjoying a pre-dinner drink at the African-themed bar or a meal overlooking the gardens, the setting reflects warm Tanzanian hospitality and quiet intimacy.

The Gateway to the Crater: Because the lodge is situated a short drive from the Ngorongoro Conservation Area entrance, it allows the group to be among the first to descend into the crater in the morning. This strategic location ensures more time spent with the “Big Five” and less time in transit, maximizing the safari experience.

Mamadunia Safari Lodge

Mamadunia Safri Lodge is one of three possible lodging options while on the 2-day safari depending on group size and vacancies.

Nestled in the lush highlands of Karatu, Mamadunia Safari Lodge serves as an intimate and elegant gateway to Tanzania’s most iconic safari destinations, including the Ngorongoro Crater and Lake Manyara. Conceived by a French-Tanzanian duo, the lodge blends European sophistication with traditional African warmth, offering a tranquil sanctuary for travelers.

The Experience

The lodge is designed for exclusivity, hosting only 12 guests at a time to ensure a personalized and peaceful stay. Upon arrival, guests are often greeted with traditional songs and dances, setting a welcoming tone for their stay. The grounds span eight acres of verdant gardens and towering trees, creating a haven for hundreds of native bird species.

Accommodations

The lodge features exceptionally spacious, standalone cabins (approximately 75 m²) designed with an eco-conscious ethos. Each room includes:

• Private Balcony or Terrace: Offering panoramic mountain views and vistas of the surrounding countryside.
• Modern Comforts: Large beds with mosquito nets, soundproof walls, a dedicated seating area, and a work desk.
• En-suite Bathrooms: Equipped with walk-in showers, high-quality toiletries, and 24/7 hot water.
• Eco-Friendly Design: Power is sourced from a combination of solar panels, batteries, and generators to minimize the environmental footprint.

Dining and Amenities

• Infinity Pool: A highlight of the property, the pool appears to merge with the horizon, providing breathtaking views toward the Ngorongoro highlands.
• The Restaurant: Serves a fusion of African, American, and European cuisines. Meals are prepared using locally sourced ingredients, with breakfast options ranging from full English to continental buffets.
• The Bar & Terrace: Ideal for “Happy Hour” or a romantic candlelit dinner under the stars.
• Connectivity: Complimentary Wi-Fi is available throughout the property, and rooms are equipped with universal charging points.

Strategic Location

Located just five minutes from the center of Karatu and the main safari road, Mamadunia provides convenient access to Ngorongoro Crater.

Lake Manyara Wildlife Lodge

Lake Manyara Wildlife Lodge is one of three possible lodging options while on the 2-day safari depending on group size and vacancies.

Perched on the edge of the Great Rift Valley’s western escarpment, the Lake Manyara Wildlife Lodge offers one of the most iconic views in Tanzania. As one of the original lodges built in the region, it is strategically positioned to overlook the entire expanse of Lake Manyara National Park and its shimmering alkaline waters below.

The lodge is government-owned, reflecting a long-standing commitment to promoting tourism and preserving Tanzania’s natural heritage. This legacy is matched by a level of service that emphasizes the warmth of Tanzanian hospitality: One of the most appreciated touches for travelers returning from the dusty safari tracks is the immediate greeting by staff with warm, wet towels to refresh your face and hands before heading to dinner.

The experience at the lodge often extends into the evening with vibrant cultural displays. On select nights, travelers may be treated to a performance by a group of local Tanzanian acrobats. Their high-energy show, often involving impressive feats of strength and agility, provides a lively conclusion to a day in the bush.

Every guestroom features a private veranda, providing a front-row seat to panoramic views of the pink-hued lake in the evenings. The lodge also features a swimming pool, many communal spaces for the group to gather comfortably, an indoor bar, and buffet-style restaurant.

A large family of baboons lives in the immediate vicinity of the lodge, so be sure to lock your doors while you’re away.

Additional Logistics Information

When selecting the Mully Children’s Family addon, travelers stay at the Mully Children’s Family facility and are treated by residents who are learning the trade of tourism as part of their vocational studies.

When selecting the LDS Temple addon, lodging options can include the onsite lodging at the temple or a nearby hotel.

When selecting the 7-day Kilimanjaro Hike addon, the hiking group camps on the mountain. The planning tabs below give more details on packing for the 7-day hike.

When selecting the Serengeti addon to the 2-day safari, guests will have the option of camping in a tent or staying at a lodge closer to Serengeti.

When selecting the Island of Zanzibar addon, guests will stay at a lodge or hotel in Zanzibar.

If the group wishes to travel to places besides Tanzania or Kenya or have other addons besides what is listed on this page, then we can certainly help make arrangements. There are many more options provided by our travel partners: Hearts and Hands for Humanitity Eastern Africa* and African Traits.

*Hearts and Hands for Humanity and Hearts and Hands for Humanity Eastern Africa are seperate organizations. The latter is a for-profit entity created to supplement the Humanitarian Safari option for H3 donors.

Register for the Humanitarian Safari

Refer A Friend Form

Get a 5% discount for every friend you refer who comes on the trip. Get up to 20% off your own trip for referring up to 4 friends.