How to Visit Tanzania in a Sustainable Way
In East Africa bordered by Kenya, Tanzania is one of the most naturally diverse countries in the world and certainly in Africa. Home to the continent’s largest lake and highest peak are just a couple of reasons why the country is a haven for natural adventure and exploration.
As travel and tourism is responsible for 8.1% of global greenhouse gas emissions and the effects of climate change are becoming increasingly more apparent, it’s more important than ever to travel more sustainably. Sustainable travel aims to reduce the carbon footprint of travel through more eco-friendly ways. From eco-lodges and accommodation to more sustainable ways to see local beauty and wildlife, here are the best ways to embrace sustainable travel in Tanzania.
When to Visit Tanzania to Make It Sustainable
For the most sustainable time to visit Tanzania, it ultimately depends on the itinerary of a trip. It’s important to recognise how wildlife exploration at different times of the year could affect the most delicate ecosystems. June to October is the dry season which is the best for creating little effect on environments. Travel in the wet season of delicate forests can cause more damage to lower levels of ecosystems as paths are harder to navigate.
The latter third of the dry season could also be considered the most sustainable time to travel in the season. Mid-summer is the most popular season for travel in Tanzania, so going towards Autumn in September and October can also help reduce the pressure put on the natural resources and local communities.
Credit: tommorphy – serengeti – plains
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Sustainable Things to See in Tanzania
No matter the main regions or landscape features you choose to see, embracing natural exploration in Tanzania helps put money into the local National Parks to help preserve the beauty and delicacy. This form of sustainable tourism equally means local people’s homes are better protected for their livelihoods to remain unchanged.
The Serengeti National Park borders with Kenya’s Maasai Mara and these are some of the most wildlife dense and therefore well-protected landscapes in the world. By visiting the UNESCO World Heritage Site during the Great Migration, you’re helping to boost the protection programs and conservation efforts here. See the spectacular Great Migration Event which sees millions of zebras, wildebeests and gazelles move across the land in search of better water and vegetation sources during season change.
Visit the Selous Game Reserve which sits around the Rufiji River where you can see hippos, crocodiles, water birds and other marine life in eco-friendly waters. This reserve is one of the most protected landscapes in Africa and supports lower impact tourism to protect its ecosystems. But the sights of so many diverse mammals equally won’t make your travel experience here any less memorable than higher-impact travel.
Sustainable Things to Do in Tanzania
It’s no surprise that Tanzania is synonymous with safari adventures, but there are equally a wealth of ways to ensure safari expeditions are led in the most responsible ways. From ethical operators to certified guides that perform sustainable practises, there are many ways to ensure the exciting form of travel for tourists is equally having as little impact possible on the natural environment.
For a unique way to combine safari enchantment with beachside relaxation, discover Tanzania safari and beach holidays. Visit the only National Park in East Africa that has direct access to the beach, the Saadani National Park and cool down in crystal waters straight after wildife hunting! These packages work closely with local communities and conservation organisations to ensure travel only has positive impact on the local environment and communities.
A trek up Mount Kilimanjaro is sure to entice the most adventurous travellers and you can ensure a responsible ascend with a certified guide. Following the ‘Leave No Trace’ principles means you’ll only go up in decent enough conditions and with the means of ensuring your journey’s impact cannot be seen once it’s finished.
Sustainable Places to Stay in Tanzania
From island escapes to lodges nestled in the heart of the wilderness, there are vast eco-friendly options to create a home-from-home in Tanzania.
For a few nights in relaxation off the coast of Zanzibar, Chumber Island is a private nature reserve focused on coral reef conservation and home to various eco-lodges. From composting toilets, rainwater harvesting and soler power fuelled, be prepared for your whole accommodation to look afte the environment and equally be in the midst of a marine protected region.
Unsurprisingly, the many National Parks are also home to sustainable means of accommodation for tourists to enjoy and continue to promote the ‘Leave No Trace’ aim of travel. From classic camping experiences within the Selous Game Reserve in tents off the shores of Lake Manze where your only other neighbours are the wildlife! Enjoy stargazing and really embracing the environment in this kind of unplugged retreat.
What to Pack for a Sustainable Visit to Tanzania
From eco-friendly luggage made from recycled materials to the contents you include, packing sustainably should be considered for all future travels where possible. The lighter you pack, the less fuel it will take to transport your good. And if you’re reading that thinking that will have a very low impact on the carbon footprint of a whole flight, consider how much it could if every passenger followed these tips…
Stick to lightweight clothes that you know you’ll likely wear more than once. Tanzania weather will allow for shorter layers and only one or two longer options as a ‘just in case’. Choose eco-friendly toiletries and more energy efficient electronics where possible to reduce the need for charging capabilities while in Tanzania too. As travel becomes more progressive with sustainable ways, there are more options for sustainable backpacks for you to use everyday on safari.
Summary
The luscious landscapes and community feels of Tanzania can’t wait to welcome you. Embrace the sights of wildlife in their natural surroundings and return home with a new found appreciation for the beauty all around. Africa’s Tanzania awaits.