acacia Horizon safaris
acacia Horizon safaris
Acacia Adventure Safaris is a local safari company based in Arusha, Tanzania. Nestled at the heart of Tanzania’s safari landscape, Arusha stands as the gateway to the majestic Serengeti and Tanzania’s other world-renowned national parks. Join us in Arusha, where Africa’s natural wonders are just a step away.
Scroll down to learn more about: Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Crater, Lake Manyara National Park, Tarangire National Park, and Mount Kilimanjaro. In all of our safaris, you will also see and experience the vibrant culture of Tanzania’s indigenous cultures, including a visit to a Maasai village.
The Serengeti National Park is where the earth pulses with the footsteps of majestic wildlife. Every summer, the drama of nature unfolds here with the Great Migration – the world-renowned spectacle featuring millions of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles traversing the plains in search of fresh grasslands. In Northern Serengeti, the drama climaxes as the herds attempt the perilous Mara River crossing, gambling with fate as hungry alligators wait in the river currents. This ancient ritual, coupled with the park’s abundant and diverse wildlife including the Big Five (elephants, lions, leopards, rhinos, and cape buffalos), offers the ultimate safari experience. Imagine watching a golden sunset with silhouettes of acacia trees, giraffes, and elephants against the horizon, or witnessing a pride of lions lounging after a hunt. Every moment in Serengeti is a snapshot of the wild at its most raw and beautiful.
The Serengeti is an expansive region that can be divided into Southern (Ndutu), Central (Seronera), Northern (Mara River) areas.
Descend into the Ngorongoro Crater, the world’s largest intact volcanic caldera, and find yourself in a natural amphitheater teeming with wildlife. This unique ecosystem, often referred to as ‘Africa’s Eden’, shelters an astounding variety of animals, including the rare black rhino, lions, elephants, hippos, and flamingos gracing its alkaline lakes. Ngorongoro is not just a wildlife haven; it is a journey back in time, where every turn offers a glimpse into prehistoric wonders and the harmonious coexistence of man and beast, as seen in the pastoral Maasai tribes roaming its fringes. As the sun rises over the crater rim at dawn, and the zebras, gazelles, baboons, hyenas, and buffalos gather at the natural springs at the crater basin, you might forget that there was ever a world beyond this peaceful haven.
Tarangire National Park, often overshadowed by its more famous neighbors, is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. This expansive park is renowned for its large elephant herds, the densest of any park, and its ancient baobab trees that stand majestically against its grasslands. The Tarangire River, which meanders through the park, is a lifeline for wildlife especially during the dry season. This park offers a more secluded safari experience, allowing intimate encounters with nature that also include diverse birdlife, herds of buffalos, and tree-climbing lions. Tarangire’s serene beauty, accentuated by the rolling savannah landscapes and a less crowded atmosphere, makes it an essential stop for those seeking a tranquil communion with nature.
Nestled at the base of the Great Rift Valley escarpment, Lake Manyara National Park is a scenic marvel. Famous for its tree-climbing lions and vast flocks of flamingos, the park’s diverse habitats range from its alkaline lake to dense woodlands to steep mountainsides. Beyond the lions, the park is a haven for over 400 bird species, making it a paradise for birdwatchers. The lush forest, home to troops of baboons and blue monkeys, opens up to grassy floodplains where herds of buffalo, wildebeest, and giraffes roam. Lake Manyara epitomizes the beauty of Africa’s diverse landscapes and wildlife.
Mount Kilimanjaro isn’t just Africa’s highest peak; it is a journey through five distinct climatic zones leading to the snow-capped summit. You begin in the lush Cultivation Zone, passing quaint villages and local farms before entering the dense Rainforest Zone, alive with vibrant flora and fauna. As you climb higher, the landscape opens into the Heath and Moorland Zone, dotted with striking giant lobelias and senecios. The challenging Alpine Desert Zone follows, offering stark beauty with its extreme temperatures and sparse vegetation. The final ascent through the icy Arctic Zone brings you to the summit, a breathtaking realm of snow and panoramic views. This journey is not just a climb; it’s a testament to the wonders of nature and human endurance, making it a bucket-list adventure for travelers from all corners of the globe.
Visiting the Maasai villages offers an immersive journey into a culture deeply rooted in ancient traditions, seemingly untouched by the rush of modernity. The Maasai people are emblematic of a life lived in close harmony with nature and the rhythms of the earth. Stepping into their villages is like stepping back in time. You’ll witness their distinctive customs, from the vibrant red clothing and intricate beadwork to the ritualistic dances and age-old pastoral practices. The Maasai maintain a sustainable lifestyle, living off the land and their herds in a way that has been passed down through generations. This cultural excursion provides an opportunity to not just observe, but to engage with a way of life that has preserved its unique identity and traditions in an ever-changing world. It’s an enlightening experience, offering insights into the resilience and enduring spirit of the Maasai people.
