Insider Tanzania May 2021
Kenya is Open for Travel. Urth Expedition is Ready to Welcome You Back to "Magical Kenya"
Book Your Honeymoon or Romantic Getaway Safari to Magical Kenya
Zanzibar Launches an Online Portal to Book Your RT-PCR Test for Departure from the Island
Have You Ever Experienced a Safari in the Southern Circuit of Tanzania
Urth Expedition has an Exclusive 1 to 2-week Itinerary for the Southern Circuit including Safari Experiences in Ruaha National Park, Mikumi National Park, Katavi National Park and Selous Game Reserve (Now known as Nyerere National Park), Cultural and Scenic Experience in the Southern Highlands, and winding down for a few nights on a Private Island in the Indian Ocean. Get in touch to learn more about the Southern Circuit and the Experiences that we can arrange and plan for you.
Urth Expedition is Now Offering Extension Trips to Seychelles
Urth Expedition Offers this Extension "Bikes & Wine" Tours in Cape Town, South Africa
African tourism opens its arms to U.S. guests
The global travel industry has been dealt a crippling blow over the past year. Thousands of tour providers, hotel and guest house owners, guides, photographers, car rental companies, and restaurant owners have closed their doors. The ripple effect of these closures has been more of a tsunami for nations whose economies were in trouble pre-pandemic.
Is there light at the end of this exceptionally long, dark tunnel? Absolutely, YES!
Nations whose tourism sector contributes heavily to the national GDP are eager to open their borders. They are going above and beyond to implement safety protocols and ease the minds of nervous travelers.
While it is up to individuals to make an informed decision, we at
Urth Expedition believes we have a responsibility to offer the most current updates available to current and future guests. Our providers have reputations that are hard-earned, and they realize the importance of maintaining excellent communication, exceptional safety standards, and the need to protect their (our) guests. It is their livelihood, after all.
Travelers need to be prepared for what they may encounter when they go to another country. Regulations may be stricter than in the U.S., with curfews, mask mandates, and proof of negative Covid-19 required. Also, all air passengers must currently show proof of a negative Covid-19 test that is no more than 72 hours old to enter the United States. That includes U.S. citizens returning from trips to other countries. Urth Expedition provides updated information and facilitates necessary testing for guests prior to returning to the U.S.
As Governments are changing their policies daily, please check Embassy & country-specific websites for the latest updates. Information correct as of 05/01/2021.
Urth Expedition Most Popular African Destinations That Are Welcoming Back U.S. Tourists
Botswana
With almost 20% of the country devoted to fenceless national parks and private game reserves, which allow wildlife to roam free, Botswana is a safari favorite. The Okavango Delta, Chobe National Park, and Central Kalahari Game Reserve are all sought-after destinations for our guests.
Are U.S. citizens permitted to enter? Yes
Is a negative COVID-19 test (PCR and/or serology) required for entry? Yes
Are U.S. citizens required to quarantine? No. With a negative test, they are not required to quarantine.
– Persons who are symptomatic upon entry or who develop COVID after entry must self-isolate for 10 days with a test in the second half of the isolation period. Close contacts of positive COVID patients will be asked to isolate for 14 days.
Is a curfew in place? Yes. A curfew for Gaborone is in place through March 31, 2021, and bans all movement between 10 pm and 4 am.
For more information visit: https://bw.usembassy.gov/covid-19-information/
Kenya
Home to what is considered one of Africa's greatest game reserves, Maasai Mara National Reserve, Kenya is rich with big game, timeless cultures unchanged by the modern world, pristine beaches and coral reefs. The equatorial forests and mighty snow-capped mountains, searing deserts, and cool highland retreats provide endless adventure, discovery, and relaxation opportunities.
Are U.S. citizens permitted to enter? Yes. If specific conditions are met.
Is a negative COVID-19 test (PCR and/or serology) required for entry? Yes. All passengers arriving and transiting Kenya must have a PCR Covid-19 negative certificate for a test conducted 96 hours prior to travel. U.S. citizens who do not have such a test may be refused boarding or denied entry to Kenya.
Are U.S. citizens required to quarantine? No
Is a curfew in place? Yes. Nightly curfew hours from 10:00 p.m. to 4:00 a.m. are in effect up to March 12, 2021
For more information visit: https://ke.usembassy.gov/covid-19-information/
Rwanda
Rwanda's green, mountainous landscape has earned it the nickname "Land of a Thousand Hills" and its renowned Volcanoes National Park is home to one-third of the world's remaining Mountain Gorillas. Rich in birdlife, Rwanda boasts one-third of Africa's bird species, several species of primates, game reserves, resorts and islands on the expansive lake Kivu, graceful dancers, artistic crafts, and friendly people.
Are U.S. citizens permitted to enter? Yes
Is a negative COVID-19 test (PCR and/or serology) required for entry? Yes – all travelers arriving in Rwanda are required to have a negative COVID-19 certificate. The only accepted test is a SARS-CoV2 Real-Time Polymerase (RT-PCR) performed within 72 hours prior to departure for Rwanda. All other forms of COVID-19 tests are not permitted.
Are U.S. citizens required to quarantine? Yes – U.S. citizens are required to quarantine for approximately 24 hours at a designated quarantine hotel while awaiting the results of the COVID-19 test taken immediately after arrival at the airport.
Is a curfew in place? Yes. The Government of Rwanda currently enforces a curfew from 09:00 PM to 4:00 AM
For more information visit: https://rw.usembassy.gov/health-alert-covid-19-information/
South Africa
One of the most popular destinations in Africa has reopened to U.S. citizens. Here is where the Indian and Atlantic Oceans meet; warm weather lasts most of the year, and where Africa's best Game Reserves can be found. Traces of our ancestors are still evident in fossilized footprints 80,000 years old, and in the world's oldest rock paintings. South Africa has it all: a unique blend of the old and the new Africa that combines ultra-modern cities and up-to-the-minute facilities with an ancient heritage. It is easy to see how South Africa is known as "a world in one country".
Are U.S. citizens permitted to enter? Yes
Is a negative COVID-19 test (PCR and/or serology) required for entry? Yes – on arrival, travelers will need to present a negative COVID-19 test result not older than 72 hours from the time of departure.
Are U.S. citizens required to quarantine? No.
However, where a traveler has not done a COVID-19 test prior to departure, they will be required to remain in mandatory quarantine at their own cost.
Is a curfew in place? Yes. Under Alert Level 1, the curfew will apply from midnight until 0400 daily.
For more information visit: https://za.usembassy.gov/covid-19-information-2/
Tanzania
CHANGES IN ENTRY REQUIREMENTS DUE TO COVID-19
The new Tanzania government of President Samia Suluhu Hassan has taken positive steps to safeguard travellers and Tanzanians alike against the threat of Covid.
Here is a summary of points to consider from the most recent travel advisory (No.7 from 4 May 2021) addressing the latest requirements.
1. PCR test required for all
All travellers will need to present a negative PCR test no older than 72 hours prior to arrival in Tanzania.
2. Travellers in transit for 72 hours+
Any traveller in transit for more than 72 hours will be required to show their PCR certificate but will also be re-tested on arrival using a rapid flow test costing $25 per person paid in cash.
3. Rapid Flow Test required for all
Currently it appears that all travellers will be required to take a rapid flow test on arrival in Tanzania (at a cost of $25 per person paid in cash) but we're seeking further clarification on this element.
4. Travellers from India
Only travellers from India, or those who have been in India in the last 14 days, will be required to quarantine in a Government designated hotel for 14 days.
5. Health surveillance form
Tanzania has recently introduced an online traveller's health surveillance form, which must be completed 24 hours before arrival in the country.
A safari destination without equal, Tanzania has one-quarter of its surface area set aside for conservation. The world-renowned Serengeti National Park has the highest concentration of large mammals on the planet and has the highest concentration of large mammals on the planet. And if climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is on your bucket list, Urth Expedition can arrange that too!
For more information visit: https://tz.usembassy.gov/covid-19-information/
Uganda
Ecologically, Uganda is where the East African savannah meets the West African jungle. In this uniquely lush destination, guests can observe lions prowling the open plains in the morning and track chimpanzees through the rainforest undergrowth the same afternoon, then the next day navigate tropical channels teeming with hippos and crocodiles before setting off into the misty mountains to visit the majestic mountain gorillas. Uganda is also blessed with a vast bird population of more than 1,000 species.
Are U.S. citizens permitted to enter? Yes
Is a negative COVID-19 test (PCR and/or serology) required for entry? Yes – travelers must take a certified PCR COVID-19 test no more than120 hours before departure for Uganda and obtain a negative result
Are U.S. citizens required to quarantine? No. Quarantine is not required for arriving foreign nationals who have a negative PCR COVID-19 test result done by an accredited laboratory in the country of origin unless the person exhibits signs or symptoms of an infectious disease.
Is a curfew in place? Yes. A nationwide curfew is enforced from 2100h to 0600h. Note that arriving and departing airline passengers will be exempt from curfew restrictions when their flights take place during quarantine hours.
For more information visit: https://ug.usembassy.gov/covid-19-information-page/
Before attempting to book a trip please check country-specific requirements. Please let us know if you need help finding the relevant information.
Would you like to visit Africa?
Why Use Urth Expedition?
Luxury Accommodations
We seek out the very best accommodations for our clients. We offer only the most exclusive accommodations in unbeatable locations, from boutique canvas tents in the bush to luxury beach resorts.
Culturally Rich
Beyond offering unforgettable wildlife experiences, we believe in honoring and respecting the cultures we interact with. We provide the option of cultural experiences in each country we visit so you can return home with unforgettable memories along with a broader perspective.
Committed to Ecotourism
We want your kids (and their kids!) to have the chance to Move to the Beat of the Bush too! We are passionate about traveling in an environmentally conscious way, and we partner with lodges and camps that share our values of conservation and sustainability.
We are proud to be members of:
ATTA, KPAP, Leave no Trace, and Carbon Tanzania and are committed to working with sustainable partners.
Sample Safaris
Unlike other companies, all of our safari experiences are fully customized. When you contact us, we work with you to build an itinerary perfectly tailored to your unique travel style, budget, and desires.
Check out these client favorites to get you started. Remember, the following itineraries are only the beginning of what's possible when you book with us!
In Search of the Great Migration
Mysterious Jungle: Rwanda Gorilla Trekking
Luxury Safari and Beach Holiday
Luxury Tanzania Lodges & Camps
Our Portfolio includes some of the best lodges in Tanzania, ranging from classic, luxury, and good value for you to explore.
As we do not offer set departures, the lodges on your Tanzania Safari can be completely tailored to your needs. So whether you want to live in the lap of luxury or just want a little pampering, we can plan the perfect accommodation for you.
Best lodges for a nice view in northern Tanzania
There is something truly special about looking out across the African bush from an elevated position – anywhere you look might be the right place to catch a glimpse of one of the resident animals getting on with their day-to-day lives. Maybe you'll catch sight of elephants walking in family groups while foraging for food, breaking branches, and ripping leaves off the trees as they go, or hippos lazing in small pools of partially dried-up riverbeds. You never know what you might see when your eyes focus on a specific area.
Sunrise and sunset are magical times in the bush, before and after the heat of the day, and northern Tanzania has some excellent vantage points where you can enjoy these transient hours.
This month feature…. Lemala Collection:
Lemala presents an authentic collection of intimate tented camps, classic lodges, and a private house in Northern Tanzania. With properties in Arusha, Tarangire, Ngorongoro, and the Serengeti, we offer a fabulous safari experience throughout the famed Northern Circuit, a naturally splendid region of Tanzania and one of the most celebrated wildlife areas in Africa where the sheer concentration of game is simply phenomenal.
These properties are located in isolated wildernesses and provide superior comfort, style, and service while retaining a connection and respect to the natural environment. Thanks to careful positioning in prime wildlife areas, our open game drive vehicles, and professional guides, Urth Expedition's guests enjoy fantastic game viewing at any time of the year.
The semi-permanent and mobile tented camps offer generously-sized en suite tents with outside decks and comfortable lounge and dining areas. The tented lodges offer spacious suites with private plunge pools and deck baths, well-furnished communal areas, and a spa. The Private house is designed to be your home away from home' ideally located to start or end your safari enjoying spacious en suite rooms and private verandahs. and a swimming pool to enjoy
All of the properties offer delectable fresh and wholesome food, expert guiding, and a fantastic complement of Lemala staff to look after every requirement. Urth Expedition can tailor design an itinerary from start to finish so guests will have a highly memorable safari experience in Northern Tanzania.
Hamerkop House by Lemala
This beautiful private house is part of our Portfolio and is managed exclusively by Lemala Camps and Lodges.
The house can be taken on private exclusive use basis or shared and can be booked on bed and breakfast, half board, full board, or all-inclusive basis.
Arusha is the gateway to some of Tanzania's best national parks, and our range of villas is a great way to start your safari experience. They also have access to Tanzania's only championship golf course. The house enjoys 3 spacious ensuite room, complimentary Wi-Fi and private chefs to produce everything from delicious breakfasts to refreshing lunches, afternoon teas and dinners with beautiful garden locations to enjoy sundowner cocktails around the swimming pool or you can take a walk to No 16 and enjoy spectacular sundowners with Mt Meru and Mt Kilimanjaro as your back drop.
Whether for a short stay or extended, there is plenty to do ranging from early morning horse rides, to a round of golf on the 18 hole champion golf course, relax at the Polo Club, take a tour of a fragrant coffee plantation in Arusha or work up a sweat hiking and canoeing around Kilimanjaro and Lake Duluti.
For those that are flying out to the bush, we enjoy access to a private airstrip, Dolly, just 5 mins drive away, which is serviced with daily flight departure all over Tanzania by Auric Air, Coastal, and Air Excel, including scheduled flights to the Northern Circuit and all the Portfolio of properties. It's a great way to avoid the hustle and bustle of Arusha traffic to simply step out your house and board your flight.
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”Nothing but breathing the air of Africa, and actually walking through it, can communicate the indescribable sensations.”
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Lemala Mpingo Ridge in Tarangire
Situated on the edge of a hill, Lemala's Mpingo Ridge in Tarangire offers one of the best ways to enjoy the sunrise. Each of this property's guest suites has a private deck, and it is seriously worthwhile getting up before dawn to watch the sunrise over the park from your outdoor bathtub. Seeing the sun creeping over the distant hills, illuminating the plains below, and slowly creeping up towards your deck from your tub adds a whole new dimension to appreciating the sunrise!
Lemala Ngorongoro Tented Camp
Lemala Ngorongoro is intimately set in a delightful ancient acacia forest close to the rim of the magnificent Ngorongoro Crater. As it is located next to the quiet Lemala crater access road on the eastern side, a key advantage of staying at Lemala Ngorongoro is the quick and easy drive down on to the crater floor in the morning; Lemala guests usually have an hour's head start over others descending via the far busier Seneto crater access road on the western rim. Game drives from camp may start as early as 6.15am and guests can be down among Ngorongoro's abundant
wildlife on the floor within 10-15 minutes - crucial for photographers who demand the best light conditions. Escorted walks are also available into the forest and along the crater rim with an armed ranger and Maasai guide.
Lemala Ngorongoro Tented Camp has 9 spacious tents that are positioned carefully to provide privacy and with minimal impact on the pristine forest environment. They accommodate two queen-size beds, and as it can get cool on the Ngorongoro Crater rim at night, little luxuries like warm winter-weight duvets, hot water bottles and gas heaters ensure a cosy night's sleep. The roomy en-suite bathrooms contain a dressing area, flush toilet and a large safari-style shower.
The mess tent is beautifully furnished with grand sofas, lamps, bookshelves and corner cabinets in old wood, chests and rugs. In the evening, guests can gather around the campfire to exchange tales of the day's safari followed by a sumptuous hearty meal.
Lemala Nanyukie in the Serengeti
Heading towards the more remote eastern Serengeti plains, my next stop was Lemala Nanyukie. The views from this camp can best be described as 'sweeping' – not elevated but no less beautiful, as Nanyukie's wide decks with sunken lounges and private plunge pools are great for spending some quality time just relaxing and looking into the surrounding African bush. I could quite happily have spent a whole day on my private deck! The eastern plains are most famous for cheetah sightings, and they did not disappoint – in only two days we saw a lone female cheetah relaxing on a termite mound, a mother cheetah with five cubs sleeping and playing in a shady patch, and four brothers hunting together at sunset.
Lemala Kuria Hills Lodge in the Serengeti
My last stop on this trip was the fairly new Lemala Kuria Hills, a beautiful combination of a tented camp and luxury lodge. The suites, so big you can't call them tents, look out across the hills from a granite boulder vantage point – and each has a private plunge pool.
The lodge is accessed via 45 minutes' road transfer from Kogatende Airstrip. It's set in a private concession within the North Serengeti's Wogakuria Hills area, which is characterised by rocky kopjes and big boulders. The famous River Mara is just half an hour away!
Guest accommodation consists of 15 suites, positioned at varying distances from the communal facilities. The suites are spaced well apart and connected to the main lodge along neat pathways. A few steps lead up to a wooden door, which opens into the bedroom and lounge area. Here you'll find a king-size bed or twin beds with mosquito nets, bedside tables and lighting, end-of-bed seating, a sofa, a coffee table, and a floor lamp. There are a number of rugs too, and some interesting wall artwork. Additional amenities include a tea-and-coffee station and a mini-bar. The en-suite washroom, accessed from the bedroom, contains a flush toilet, twin washbasins within a large vanity unit, a walk-in shower, shelves, hanging space, and a bathtub with amazing views of the Serengeti savanna! You can also admire the scenery from your private deck, which is accessed via sliding glass doors from the bedroom and comes complete with a table and chairs, a couple of sunloungers, and a refreshing little plunge pool. There's also an outdoor shower.
The main areas at Lemala Kuria Hills Lodge are found at the highest point of the site, boasting breathtaking vistas over the plains! There are three tents – one for the lounge and bar, one for the dining room, and one for Reception and the gift shop. These are connected along raised wooden walkways. In the lounge/bar tent, comfortable chairs and sofas are set out around coffee tables or next to cosy fireplaces. Fans and chic chandeliers are positioned overhead, and shelves hold a selection of books and games. The bar provides a convivial space in which to get to know your fellow travellers while enjoying a few drinks. The dining tent is similarly chic, featuring separate tables flanked by upright chairs, as well as an inviting fireplace. It's one of the lodge's settings for delicious breakfasts, lunches, afternoon teas, and dinners – guests can also opt to dine on the spacious deck adjacent to the tents, or in a more secluded location. The gift shop stocks a great range of curios, and the spa, set up some distance from the main site, is perfect for anyone in need of a little pampering! There's a swimming pool too, and a sundeck, where you can relax between activities. Wi-Fi can be accessed throughout the property.
*This property is unfenced and located in a wildlife area, so large and potentially dangerous animals do pass through. If you opt to stay here, always be alert when walking around the camp and request for a member of staff to escort you if you have any concerns. Any guest is escorted after dark as a matter of course.