Roman disponible en français aux éditions Terre d'accueil. Novel is available in English at Mawenzi house publisher.

Shira Camp 2: Vital Resting Point on Mount Kilimanjaro's Shira Plateau

Details Of Shira Camp 2

Shira Camp 2 is located along the Shira, Machame Routes, and Lemosho routes. This camp is the third one that climbers come across on both these trails. Its strategic position aids hikers in their Mount Kilimanjaro Climbing journey.

Shira Camp 2 follows the Shira Camp 1 Kilimanjaro and is closer to the Shira Plateau.

The Shira plateau might not be as renowned as the Kibo or Mawenzi peaks, but it offers a unique experience to those on Mount Kilimanjaro Climbing

Both Shira Camp Kilimanjaro Tanzania sites, Shira 1 and Shira 2, play a crucial role in acclimatizing and preparing climbers for the challenges ahead on their Mount Kilimanjaro Hike.

Shira Camp 2 offers climbers a moment to rest, gather their strength, and prepare for the exciting journey ahead in Climbing Kilimanjaro.

Shira Camp 2 Highlights

Elevation of Shira Camp 2: 3890 meters

Routes: Lemosho and Shira Route

Amenities: Pit Latrines

Vegetation: Alpine

Location Of Shira Camp

Positioned on the Kilimanjaro Shira Plateau Camp, Shira Camp 2 is similar to its predecessor, Shira Camp 1 Kilimanjaro.

Situated in the moorland zone on the northwestern face of Mount Kilimanjaro, brisk winds, chilly temperatures, and short bushes amid occasional rocks define the environment here. This zone also experiences a fair amount of rainfall.

Climbers on the Lemosho or Shira Kilimanjaro Climbing Routes will first encounter Shira Camp 1 Kilimanjaro before reaching Shira 2 Camp Kilimanjaro.

Situated at 3890 m, Shira Camp 2 is where trekkers begin to sense altitude sickness issues.

Shira Camp 2 Kilimanjaro is a pivotal point in the Mount Kilimanjaro Hike, bridging the journey between distinct camps and offering trekkers a moment to rest and adapt before continuing their ascent.

Shira 2 Campsite Accommodations And Toilets

Navigating through the vast expanse of Mount Kilimanjaro, climbers, especially those at Shira Camp 2 Kilimanjaro, need to be well-prepared in terms of accommodations. Unlike some destinations, there aren't fixed accommodation structures available at this campsite.

Climbers should bring their tents to set up at the Shira 2 Camp Kilimanjaro.

To cater to sanitation needs, two kinds of toilets are available:

Traditional pit latrines housed in wooden shacks

Aside from the spaces for tents and the toilets, the other notable construction is the ranger’s hut, constructed with durable green metal.

While Shira Camp Kilimanjaro Tanzania offers a raw and immersive Mount Kilimanjaro Hiking experience, climbers must be self-sufficient in terms of accommodations while providing basic amenities for their comfort.

Shira Camp 2 at 3890 meters on Mount Kilimanjaro's Shira Plateau is a vital resting point for climbers on the Lemosho and Shira Routes. It offers basic amenities amidst alpine vegetation. African Scenic Safaris enhance the experience with expert guidance. Trekkers must bring their tents, as accommodation is limited to a ranger's hut and pit latrines.

The Mask

Toronto poet, novelist and playwright Terry Watada talks to Sabyasachi Nag about his latest poetry collection: The Mask, (Mawenzi House, 2023) Sabyasachi Nag (SN): Masks are popular cultural symbols in contemporary Japanese culture. They are used on different occasions and are richly emblematic. How do they relate to the collection of poems? Terry Watada (TW): The mask has become ubiquitous in…

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Richard Mcgeehan Poem

Poetic license I employ to match inventive wisdom and witticism regarding (brother in law of mine husband of eldest sister of same) interspersing, initiating, incorporating fabrication whenever possible, and only the subject himself can discern fact from fiction

and get a chuckle. Re: noun polymath and longtime resident of Woodbury, New Jersey story of his life constitutes real cinéma vérité depicting veteran jack of all trades, and adept Morris dancer to boot, whereby ankles donned with bells while whistles fell from the house of usher crowded house Aesop Poe's

his rubbery shapely legs bending vaguely resembling an oxbow amazingly gracefully they meander, when sharing an anecdote then listener amply electrified attired courtesy with rapt attention donning brooks brothers complimentary wardrobe courtesy Durand thrift store, and/or popular Goodwill

(though prices noticeably steeper at the latter), where he donates and buys tools, tchotchkes, gizmos, gadgets, clothes, and books tests intricacy, viability of instruments, lounges, couches and countenances against being Lazy Boy, nevertheless irresistibly shifting into supineness around cozy davenports,

and to ease sofa ring takes doze on comfortable recliner, while engrossed reading suddenly striking sitting inquisitive posture (pedic) as revolutionary humanoid lifelike mannequin free advertising to expose how Chat Generative Pre-trained Transformer

(a large language model-based chatbot developed by OpenAI and launched on November 30, 2022, which enables users to refine and steer a conversation towards a desired length, format, style,

level of detail, and language - oh... and for your information Monty the Python wrote these words)

suddenly artificial intelligence frozen

out and rendered obsolete Homo sapiens thinking prowess as well as relevance of human species grows undermined, overshadowed, enslaved,

et cetera, where twenty first sentient beings of civilization reduced to beasts of burden scattered to all four winds analgous to rolling stones simians scraping the earth

using fingers as hoes

eventually survival of the fittest evolution did impose steely phalanges (the bones that make up the toes of the hand and the fingers of the foot - ha) on common joe's biden their time scaling Kilimanjaro's three volcanic cones: Kibo, Mawenzi, and Shira

keenly synchronized trained scientific seismographs linkedin with their sensory perceptions

helped maintain honed vigilance

former killer foo fighting goo goo dolls

rendered physiques tight as longbows

(actually stunt doubles weathering bubbling lava mudflows) amazing special effects witnessed each spectacular rivaling, towering inferno

metamorphosing into jolly green

(rather orange) giant blob with green thumb clowning around with FAKE bulbous nose, indiscriminately spewing forth liquid bedrock that quickly overthrows

entire bygone webbed wide world swallowing prized archaeologically ancient Egyptian and classic Roman civilizations,

where Nero played a mean fiddle liquidating treasured chests of pharaohs

heaving, melting, repurposing sphinx in accordance with pyramid scheme Ponzi scam would long since crumble and degenerate like house of cards attesting to fraudulent dirty deeds done dirt cheap composition and never hold a match against pure clean fracturing conchoidal quartzose,

one divine comedy troupe rose

above the global liquefaction

affected climate change, whereat the sheltering sky offered no escape nor protection

against preternatural edge of night

as dark shadows encapsulated outer limits of the twilight zone quickly extinguishing existence of Homo sapiens planet earth reconstituted and seeds of life and white lily omnipotent creator did transpose.

Act chilly and bass sic hilly

HAPPY BIRTHDAY

completing number seventy five

orbitz, and after ye dip and dive for another quarter century

(of course still attending

Cherry Hill Unitarian Church) ye will be fêted oldest member

and maybe the oldest one alive.

April’s SPD Staff Picks are here! & 20% off w/code SPDPICKS!

Book Review: "My Totem Came Calling" by Thorsten Nesch & Blessing Musariri

Book Review: “My Totem Came Calling” by Thorsten Nesch & Blessing Musariri

“My Totem Came Calling” by Thorsten Nesch & Blessing Musariri

Genre:

Page Length: 176 pages (paperback review copy)

Synopsis:

Chanda is a seventeen-year-old schoolgirl in Harare, Zimbabwe, who suddenly starts suffering from memory lapses, which become even more worrisome when she starts seeing a zebra in all sorts of places. The trouble is, nobody else can see it. Afraid of being…

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#ReadingAfrica 

Catalyst Press held a #ReadingAfrica Week during the first week of December. The campaign just ended, but we encourage everyone to #ReadAfrica all year long. Here are some of the Young Adult books we’ve enjoyed and recommend:

It's Trevor Noah: Born a Crime: Stories from a South African Childhood (Adapted for Young Readers) by Trevor Noah - Delacorte

The host of The Daily Show, Trevor Noah, tells the story of growing up half black, half white in South Africa under and after apartheid in this young readers' adaptation of his bestselling adult memoir Born a Crime: Stories from a South African Childhood.

Trevor Noah shares his story of growing up in South Africa, with a black South African mother and a white European father at a time when it was against the law for a mixed-race child like him to exist. But he did exist--and from the beginning, the often-misbehaved Trevor used his smarts and humor to navigate a harsh life under a racist government.

How Dare the Sun Rise: Memoirs of a War Child by Sandra Uwiringiyimana, Abigail Pesta - Katherine Tegen Books

This profoundly moving memoir is the remarkable and inspiring true story of Sandra Uwiringyimana, a girl from the Democratic Republic of the Congo who tells the tale of how she survived a massacre, immigrated to America, and overcame her trauma through art and activism. Sandra was just ten years old when she found herself with a gun pointed at her head. She had watched as rebels gunned down her mother and six-year-old sister in a refugee camp. Remarkably, the rebel didn’t pull the trigger, and Sandra escaped. Thus began a new life for her and her surviving family members. With no home and no money, they struggled to stay alive. Eventually, through a United Nations refugee program, they moved to America, only to face yet another ethnic disconnect. Sandra may have crossed an ocean, but there was now a much wider divide she had to overcome. And it started with middle school in New York. In this memoir, Sandra tells the story of her survival, of finding her place in a new country, of her hope for the future, and how she found a way to give voice to her people. 

Purple Hibiscus by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie - Harper Perennial

Fifteen-year-old Kambili and her older brother Jaja lead a privileged life in Enugu, Nigeria. They live in a beautiful house, with a caring family, and attend an exclusive missionary school. They're completely shielded from the troubles of the world. Yet, as Kambili reveals in her tender-voiced account, things are less perfect than they appear. Although her Papa is generous and well respected, he is fanatically religious and tyrannical at home—a home that is silent and suffocating. As the country begins to fall apart under a military coup, Kambili and Jaja are sent to their aunt, a university professor outside the city, where they discover a life beyond the confines of their father’s authority. Books cram the shelves, curry and nutmeg permeate the air, and their cousins’ laughter rings throughout the house. When they return home, tensions within the family escalate, and Kambili must find the strength to keep her loved ones together. Purple Hibiscus is an exquisite novel about the emotional turmoil of adolescence, the powerful bonds of family, and the bright promise of freedom.

Aya: Life in Yop City by Marguerite Abouet, Clément Oubrerie (Illustrator) - Drawn and Quarterly

Ivory Coast, 1978. It’s a golden time, and the nation, too—an oasis of affluence and stability in West Africa—seems fueled by something wondrous. Aya is loosely based upon Marguerite Abouet’s youth in Yop City. It is the story of the studious and clear-sighted nineteen-year-old Aya, her easygoing friends Adjoua and Bintou, and their meddling relatives and neighbors. It’s a wryly funny, breezy account of the simple pleasures and private troubles of everyday life in Yop City. Clément Oubrerie’s warm colors and energetic, playful line connect expressively with Marguerite Abouet’s vibrant writing. This reworked edition offers readers the chance to immerse themselves in Abouet’s Yop City, bringing together the first three volumes of the series in Book One.

Hope is Our Only Wing by Rutendo Tavengerwei - Soho Teen [Rich in Color Review]

For fifteen-year-old Shamiso, struggling with grief and bewilderment following her father's death, hope is nothing but a leap into darkness. For Tanyaradzwa, whose life has been turned upside down by a cancer diagnosis, hope is the only reason to keep fighting. As the two of them form an unlikely friendship, Shamiso begins to confront her terrible fear of loss. In getting close to another person, particularly someone who's ill, isn't she just opening herself up to more pain? And underpinning it all - what did happen to her father, the night of that strange and implausible car crash? Rutendo Tavengerwei's extraordinary debut takes an honest look at hope, and the grit and courage it can take to hang on to it. 

This Book Betrays My Brother by Kagiso Lesego Molope - Mawenzi House Publishers [Rich in Color Review]

What does a teenage girl do when she sees her beloved older brother commit a horrific crime? Should she report to her parents, or should she keep quiet? Should she confront him? All her life, Naledi has been in awe of Basi, her charming and outgoing older brother. They've shared their childhood, with its jokes and secrets, the alliances and stories about the community. Having reached thirteen, she is preparing to go to the school dance. Then she sees Naledi commit an act that violates everything she believes about him. How will she live her life now? This coming-of-age novel brings together many social issues, peculiar not only to South Africa but elsewhere as well, in the modern world: class and race, young love and physical desire, homosexuality. In beautiful, lyrical, and intimate prose, Molope shows the dilemmas facing a young woman as she attempts to find her place in a new, multiracial, and dynamic nation emerging into the world after more than a century of racist colonialism. A world now dominated by men. There are no simple answers.

Akata Witch by Nnedi Okorafor - Speak [Rich in Color Review]

Sunny Nwazue lives in Nigeria, but she was born in New York City. Her features are West African, but she's albino. She's a terrific athlete, but can't go out into the sun to play soccer. There seems to be no place where she fits in. And then she discovers something amazing—she is a "free agent" with latent magical power. And she has a lot of catching up to do. Soon she's part of a quartet of magic students, studying the visible and invisible, learning to change reality. But just as she's finding her footing, Sunny and her friends are asked by the magical authorities to help track down a career criminal who knows magic, too. Will their training be enough to help them against a threat whose powers greatly outnumber theirs?

Akata Warrior by Nnedi Okorafor - Viking Books for Young Readers

A year ago, Sunny Nwazue, an American-born girl Nigerian girl, was inducted into the secret Leopard Society. As she began to develop her magical powers, Sunny learned that she had been chosen to lead a dangerous mission to avert an apocalypse, brought about by the terrifying masquerade, Ekwensu. Now, stronger, feistier, and a bit older, Sunny is studying with her mentor Sugar Cream and struggling to unlock the secrets in her strange Nsibidi book. Eventually, Sunny knows she must confront her destiny. With the support of her Leopard Society friends, Orlu, Chichi, and Sasha, and of her spirit face, Anyanwu, she will travel through worlds both visible and invisible to the mysteries town of Osisi, where she will fight a climactic battle to save humanity. Much-honored Nnedi Okorafor, winner of the Hugo, Nebula, and World Fantasy awards, merges today’s Nigeria with a unique world she creates. Akata Warrior blends mythology, fantasy, history and magic into a compelling tale that will keep readers spellbound.

#Kiwareafricansafaris 7 Days Kilimanjaro Climb Rongai Route Mount Kilimanjaro Climb Rongai Route begins on the distant northern side of Kilimanjaro .We’ll start safari by the use of an actual wilderness house within the route of the jagged Mawenzi Peak. Duración: 365 Minutos (aproximadamente) Desde USD2.936,00 US$ https://www.instagram.com/p/CGhkh8Yszl3/?igshid=p1fvv1omd5bh

Tanzania Safari Blog - 12 Things To Know Before You Go To Tanzania

12 Things to know when you travel to Tanzania

1.Amazing landscapes

First of let me start with why you should visit Tanzania. It is flourished with natural wonders and has some of the most stunning geographical views one can witness. Whether you are a wildlife photographer or just love to capture nature’s essence with your phone to share on Instagram, every place to visit in Tanzania has amazing backdrops. You will be swept off your feet constantly: Africa at its best.

2. Best time to travel to Tanzania?

The best months for a Tanzania safari are from June to October, June and July for the wildebeest migration and January to February for calving season. In terms of the islandlife at Zanzibar then February is the hottest month when temperature rises to 28°C and July being the coldest when temperatures drop to around 24 °C. Pretty much Tanzania has a stable climate and it never gets really cold.

3. Currency Tanzania

The national currency is known as Tanzanian Shilling. The best foreign currency to carry to Tanzania is US dollars which is widely accepted and does not need to be exchanged. $1 is around 2,400 Tanzanian Shilling

4. Visa for Tanzania

Almost all countries where my blog readers come from will need a visa for Tanzania: United States, United Kingdom, all of Europe, Australia, India, etc. There is now the option to apply for the Tanzania electronic evisa, where you can apply online by filling out a form. For more information and how to get your Tanzania visa online click here. 5. Is it safe to travel to Tanzania

Although Tanzania is a safe destination for tourists, taking general precaution is advised. It is better to avoid isolated areas and always take official taxi’s. Book tours and trips from well-known companies and refrain from paying any additional fees in advance.

6. Wildlife, safari and the Great Migration

Animals in their natural habitat are either witnessed in an open zoo or on television by most people. But when you visit Tanzania it is possible to get a glimpse of one of the seven wonders Mother Nature. The great wildebeest migration is one of the best things to see in Tanzania and takes place in Serengeti National Park. It is a once in a lifetime chance for researchers and wildlife enthusiasts who dream of witnessing this spectacular event. It is the time when millions of wildebeest, zebras and antelopes end up on the south of Serengeti and move towards Ndutu in the Ngorongoro Conservation area. Between July and August thousands of wildebeest are awaited by hungry crocodiles as they try to cross the Mara River. It is also the time when thousands of baby calves are born thus creating more reasons for other predators like lions, cheetahs and hyenas to follow behind for hunting.

Tanzania is also home to the big five (lion, buffalo, elephant, rhino, leopard) and Selous Game Reserve, the world’s largest game reserve housing over 120,000 elephants, 160,000 buffaloes, about 2000 rhinos and a dense population of crocodiles, wild dogs and hippos. Needless to see that paying a visit to this National Park is one of the best things to do in Tanzania. How to get to the Serengeti

The best way to get to Serengeti is via the town of Arusha. When traveling to Tanzania you might want to fly into Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) next to Arusha.

Where to stay in the Serengeti

For those looking for a luxury experience you can book a luxury safari tent in Asanja Africa in Serengeti National Park for a mere $480 per night, meals included. Mapito Tented Camp Serengeti offers a tent for $315.

7. Hike at Kilimanjaro National Park

Situated in Kilimanjaro National Park is Africa’s highest mountain: Mt. Kilimanjaro, standing 5,895 m/19,341 ft. above sea level and is usually on top of the list for aspiring hikers visiting Tanzania. The inactive volcano consists of 3 cones named Kibo, Mawenzi and Shira and is climbed by about 7,5000 people every year so it is a safe try.  I wish I had already done it and I could tell you more about it in this Tanzania travel blog, but it still is on my list of things to do in Tanzania.

 For people preferring a mini adventure trip there is Mount Meru, located 70 kilometers away from Mount Kilimanjaro. Far less challenging and can be climbed/hiked within 3 to 4 days. May be not that adventurous but nevertheless something to consider for your Tanzania trip.

8. Zanzibar: beaches and islands

Whether your are a honeymoon couple, a group of friends, travelling with family or flying solo, Zanzibar has a place for you. The beautiful island are one of the most popular places to visit in Tanzania and no wonder. Its crystal clear waters, stunning beaches and, stunning resorts, B&B’s and lodges make it a heavenly place on earth.

There are two popular Zanzibar beaches: Nungwi Beach and Kendwa Beach. Nungwi is a perfect spot for swimmers as the low tides and the calm waters are very inviting. On top of that beach parties are also held at Nungwi, which are unlike any other parties. Don’t expect cheesy Western songs here. African music rules on Nungwi Beach. When you travel to Zanzibar, this is a must do. Just a stone throw away is Kendwa beach, the ideal spot for families and more laid back visitors looking for pristine beaches. If you’re someone who likes to take a back seat and watch the sun set while sipping a cool drink, you’re going to love Kendwa. Take a long walk along the coastline and see local kids playing on the beach.

Don’t forget to take a trip to Stone Town, the islands capital. Once ruled by the Arabs and now a melt pot of different cultures. The Swahili culture took over, but the remains of the old days are still there: historic buildings, monuments, bath houses and mosques.

How to get to Zanzibar

Although there are ferries from the mainland when on a Tanzania holiday you don’t want to loose that much time traveling. There are direct flights from Arusha to Zanzibar.

Where to stay on Zanzibar

Aluna Beach Lodge, Nungwi offers bungalows with garden views for around $100 and at Papaya Guest House, Nungwi you can already book a superior double room for $45.

9. Meet the Maasai People

The noble Maasai tribe abides in villages close to Serengeti and Ngorongoro Conservation Area. They stand tall, flaunting a vivid red cloth known as the Shuka, the tribe’s traditional dress, and invite welcoming guests to come and explore their country and culture. These people have lived on for centuries without adopting the modern world where we live in today. Needless to say that this is one of the cultural highlights of Tanzania and could not be excluded in this Tanzania travel blog.

One of the coolest things to do in Tanzania is to jump with the Maasai people in a jumping ceremony. The males gather to a song and the highest jumper is announced as the winner. Great fun! 10. Food in Tanzania

Traditional African food is a fusion of Indian and Arab recipes. Zanzibar obviously has delicious seafood on offer. To taste the best freshly prepared seafood I can recommend you to go into the Stone Town night market where delicacies await to be tasted by the lively crowd. I read it myself in one of the many Tanzania blogs I researched before my trip and I think it was one of the best Tanzania travel tips I found.

 If seafood is not your thing then try some native African cuisine such as Nyma Choma, prepared from grilled mutton, fish or chicken. It is often served with baked bananas on the side. Absolutely my favorites. Also try Pilau, a rice dish, which is heavily influenced by Indian style cooking and you know Indian food is my favorite. It is made from with either chicken, fish, mutton or hardboiled eggs, served with kachumbari, a salad prepared from onion, tomatoes and chili pepper. Can be spicy at times, just ask for it.

 The street food is totally worth trying on your Tanzania trip and local markets are among the best places to visit in Tanzania to soak up some real culture.

 11. Souvenir shopping is lit

Most tourists don’t leave a destination without taking home some gifts and souvenirs and along your Tanzania trip there will be countless shopping options. The Tanzanite is a violet blue semi-precious gemstone native to Tanzania and cannot be found anywhere else in the world. It is mined from the depths of Mount Kilimanjaro. Be careful if this is of any interest of you as there are many fakes ones around. It can best be purchased from authorized retailers in Arusha, where it is sold at the right price, with an internationally recognized gem certification.

 To shop for authentic Maasai merchandise checkout Maasai Market Curio and Crafts, situated in Arusha, selling handmade jewellery, baskets paintings and red checked blankets. Or when you visit the Maasai Mara tribes personally buy gifts directly from them. The bright and vibrant Maasai cloth makes great material for upholstery, handbags and clothing.

 12. Festivals and events in Tanzania

Sauti za Busara which means sounds of wisdom in Swahili, is an yearly music festival celebrated in Zanzibar hosting sessions of Swahili and African music genre. The festival is also graced by parades and carnivals for visitors to participate. The festival runs for four days and is attended by people from around the globe. The Sauti za Busara is always held in the beginning of February.

 Another renowned yearly festival is the Serengeti Cultural Festival hosted at Serengeti National Park and Lake Zone. A theme is set to be followed each year and visitors get to witness traditional African art and dance. This festival is held mid July.

 Zanzibar International Film Festival is another themed event held every year showcasing movies from the Middle East, Latin America and South East Asia along with African art movies. The festival is the largest film and arts event in East Africa and seeks to promote African movies for recognition across the globe. If you want to attend the Zanzibar International Film Festival then travel to Zanzibar mid July as well.

For food lovers the Nyma Choma Festival meaning ‘roasted meat’ is heaven. The event is held to celebrate the native African recipes and visitors get to taste a bite of barbequed ribs, T-bone steaks and grilled meat. It is the largest barbecue festival in the country and takes place in March.

Tanzania travel blog

I hope all the above Tanzania travel tips were helpful and it inspired you even more to book that trip to Tanzania. This vibrant and extremely diverse country will steal your heart and the love for Africa will only keep on growing.

Safe travels!

CRITIC BY TORONTO STAR ABOUT "TORONTO, I LOVE YOU".

Toronto, I Love You, Didier Leclair (Mawenzi House) Leclair’s novel was originally published in French in 2000, and, perhaps curiously, was not published in English until this month (translated by Elaine Kennedy), despite winning the Prix Trillium for French book at the time. When asked why that was, Didier replied (via his publisher in an email) that, “the Toronto publishers were not ready to translate a French-speaking Torontonian writing about Toronto. It was like asking a French chef to taste a crème brûlée prepared by an African cook. But mentalities have changed.” Plus, he says, his second novel “This Country Of Mine” awakened interest in his earlier work.

In “Toronto, I Love You,” Leclair writes about his introduction to the city as a new immigrant, describing it with fresh eyes and evocative descriptions. His first views of it, for example, “I had to bite my lip many times to stifle my gasps of wonder. The asphalt, the concrete, the glass — these elements of modernism so imposing in North American cities.” Or on heading to the suburbs: “The open space ... revealed a sky as bare as the head of a crownless king.” He helps us see the city with fresh eyes, too. Deborah Dundas, Books Editor, Aug 12, 2022.

Kilimanjaro and Zanzibar 11 Days Tour

  Duration: 11 days Category: Kilimanjaro Trekking, Beach holiday Destination: Kilimanjaro, Zanzibar Travel activity: Mountain trekking, Walking safari, Beach relaxation Major attractions: Africa’s highest mountain, Spice island, Jozani forest, Stone town, Nungwi beach Start in: Moshi End in: Stone town Mountain packing list -hiking pants, winter jacket, long sleeve shirts, hiking   boots, trekking socks, warm gloves, sunglasses and toiletries  beach packing list- summer shirts, pair of shorts, sun hats, cotton pants, sun glasses, swimming costume, sandals, digital camera Day 1: Machame Gate (1800m) To Machame Camp (2835m) Drive from the hotel in Moshi to Machame gate for registration formalities and trekking preparations. Start climbing through coffee and maize plantations leading into the rainforest. The trail leads to Machame camp where hot dinner will be awaiting. Overnight at the camp. Day 2: Machame Camp (2835m) To Shira Cave (3750m) Hike through the rainforest into the moorland zone displaying magnificent view of Kibo and Mawenzi (Kilimanjaro’s peaks). Climb steeply crossing over Shira plateau for a lunch break. The path moves on to Shira camp to arrive in the evening. Dinner and sleep at the camp. Day 3: Shira Cave (3750m) to Lava Tower (4600m) Barranco Camp (3900m) Trek from the Shira plateau through the ‘Garden of the Senecios’, to climb the great Lava Tower called “shark’s tooth”. This is meant for acclimatization which enables your body getting used to high altitude. Get time to rest while at the tower and have lunch. Descend down the tower and proceed with walking to arrive at Barranco camp in the evening. Dinner and sleep at the camp. Day 4: Barranco Camp (3900m) To Karanga Camp (4000m) Climb steeply up the Barranco wall leading into the Karanga valley with stunning views of the Heim glacier. Have lunch enroute and continue walking to reach Karanga Camp (4000m) in the evening. Dinner and sleep at the camp. Day 5: Karanga Camp (4000m) To Barafu Camp(4673m) Trek out of Karanga valley to hit the junction connecting with Mweka trail. By this point, Uhuru peak can be viewed from many different angles. The path leads on to Barafu camp. Rest upon arrival and drink large amounts of water in preparation for the summit day. It’s recommended to sleep early by 19:00. Day 6: Ascend To The Summit (Uhuru Peak) 5895m Wake up by 23:30 for a hot cup of coffee and putting on trekking gears. Start climbing by midnight through the volcanic screen to reach Stella point (5756m) by sunrise. Take time to rest and make the final round trip to reach Uhuru Peak (5895m). At the summit, take pictures while feeling accomplished standing at the roof of Africa. Start descending which is quite fast. The path leads to Mweka hut (3,100m) to arrive in the evening for dinner and sleep. Day 7: Mweka Camp (3100m) to Mweka Gate (1640m) Descend through moorland into the beautiful lush green forest. Arrive at the gate by mid-day for tipping the crew (guides, porters and cookers) and certificate awards. Green certificates are awarded to hikers who reached Gilman’s and golden to the ones who reached Uhuru peak. Drive back to Moshi town for resting. Day 8: Transfer To Zanzibar Have breakfast and leave for a local tour exploring the beautiful town of Moshi. Have lunch and drive to the airport for a flight to Zanzibar. Pickup from the airport upon arrival and transfer to the booked hotel in Stone town. Delivery of a short safari briefing by the guide. Check in the hotel for dinner and an overnight stay. Day 9: Spice Island and Stone Town Day Tour Have an early breakfast and leave the hotel for a boat drive to Spice island. Explore the natural beautiful island filled with variety of spices and fruits. Get a chance to taste some of the tropical fruits and climb coconut trees if interested. Continue with walking till mid-day and return to town. Have a local lunch upon arrival in one of the town’s restaurant. Proceed with the tour in the natural made historical town. Visit the Palace museum, House of wonders and the former Slave market for past historical experience. Take a walk along the narrow Zanzibar streets with mosques and temples on each side. Come across local shops selling handicrafts including ornaments whereby they can be purchased if interested. In the evening, return back to the hotel. Day 10: Jozani Forest Tour and Transfer To Nungwi Beach Leave the hotel for a drive to the famous Jozani forest. Explore the beautiful forest which hosts a variety of flora and fauna. Get a chance to see the last remaining sanctuaries of the red colubus monkey. Visit the Mangrove swamp and walk along the Mangrove swamp displaying spectacular views. Return back to town for lunch at the town’s restaurant. Take a drive to Nungwi beach for an overnight stay at the booked hotel. Day 11: Beach Relaxation and Transfer To The Airport Have breakfast and enjoy sea breezing for ultimate relaxation of body and mind. Enjoy swimming, snorkeling and diving bringing you closer to the beautiful sea life. Return to the hotel and prepare for departure according to the flight schedule. End of tour!! RELATED POSTSPrice Include: Kilimanjaro park permits Professional mountain crew (guides, cooks and porters) Two night’s accommodation (before and after climb) Camping facilities Boiled water while at the mountain Sleeping bags First aid kit Transport facilities All Zanzibar excursion packages Accommodation facilities 3 proper meals+ mineral water and tea/coffee Experienced and professional English speaking guide Price Exclude: International flights Tanzanian Visa Tips for guides and cooks All things of personal nature Extra meals and drinks Items not specified in terms and conditions Extended tours not specified in the main package Read the full article

Memoir Project

….Let The Story Begin WHAT? WRITE your memoir with help from experienced industry professionals (writing coaches, educators and editors) through 2024. Publish your completed memoir with Mawenzi House, a leading Toronto-based book house. WHY? Creative Engagement: to gain control over memories (near and far) and acquire agency for the creative expression of thought in the company of loved…

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18 Days Trekking Safari and Zanzibar

A trip to Zanzibar is a great way to relax after climbing Kilimanjaro or after your wildlife safari.Kuwa Huru Tanzania Adventure provides an all-inclusive 6 days Kilimanjaro climb, 6 days safari and 5 days Zanzibar getaway package with four different levels of lodging to choose from. Day 1: Arrive in Marangu: We stay at Kilimanjaro Mountain Resort, which is a beautiful Hotel located on the lower slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro and is a perfect place to prepare you for adventure. We will gather in the evening at 5:30 pm for a pre-climb briefing and an equipment check. We will also confirm you have the appropriate mandatory medical coverage and travel insurance. Dinner and overnight at Kilimanjaro Mountain Resort: Half board. Day 2: Rongai Camp One: After an early breakfast in Marangu, you will drive to the Rongai (Nalemoru) Gate near the Kenya border. We begin our climb on this unspoilt wilderness route. The walk then starts to climb consistently, but gently through attractive forest that shelters a variety of wildlife. The forest begins to thin out and the first camp is at the edge of the moorland zone (2600 m.) with extensive views over the Kenyan plains. The first day is only a half-day walk.  Day 3: Kikelelwa Camp: The morning walk is a steady ascend up to the ‘Second Cave’ (3,450 m.) with superb views of Kibo and the Eastern icefields on the crater rim. After lunch, we leave the main trail and strike out across the moorland on a smaller path towards the jagged peaks of Mawenzi. Our “Upper Kikelewa” campsite is on a small plateau above a sheltered valley with giant senecios past Kikelewa Caves (3,750 m.) Day 4: Mawenzi Turn Hut: A short but steep climb up grassy slopes is rewarded by superb all round views and a tangible sense of wilderness. We leave vegetation behind shortly before reaching the next camp at “Mawenzi” (4,300 m.), spectacularly situated beneath the towering spires of Mawenzi. The afternoon will be free to rest or explore the surrounding area as an aid to acclimatisation. Day 5: Kibo Hut: We cross the lunar desert of the saddle between Mawenzi and Kibo to reach Kibo Hut (15,400 ft) at the bottom of the crater wall. The remainder of the day is spent resting in preparation for an early morning final ascent. Day 6: Summit walk: We start the final and most demanding part of the climb by torchlight around 1 a.m. We plod very slowly in the darkness on a switchback trail through loose volcanic scree to reach the crater rim at Gillman’s Point (18,600 ft). We rest here for a short time to enjoy the spectacular sunrise over Mawenzi. Those who are still feeling strong can make the three-hour round trip to Uhuru Peak (19,345 ft), passing close to the spectacular glaciers and ice cliffs that still occupy most of the summit area. The descent to Kibo Hut (15,400 ft) is surprisingly fast and, after some refreshments, we continue the descent to Horombo Huts (12,200 ft). Day 7: Horombo Hut Down to Marangu Gate: A steady descend takes us down through moorland to Mandara Hut (2,700m.), the first stopping place at the Marangu route. We then continue descending through lovely lush forest on a good path to the National Park gate at Marangu (1,830 m.). . Dinner and overnight at Arusha Safari Lodge: Half board. Safari Day 8: Game drive in Tarangire National Park: Today we drive to Tarangire National Park, for excellent game viewing. Tarangire is a small park which offers some excellent sights. Generally in the dry seasons Tarangire comes alive as wildlife and birdlife congregate on the Tarangire River, which is a permanent source of water. We spend the night in our lodge beautifully set inside the park with stunning views and a unique atmosphere. In the late afternoon we make a short journey from the park to our special lodge. Dinner and overnight at Kirurumo Lodge: Full board. Day 9: Game drive in Serengeti National Park: We head towards the Serengeti National Park. En route there is an opportunity to visit Olduvai Gorge. It is within this steep sided ravine that Louis and Mary Leakey made some of the world’s most important archaeological discoveries in the 1950s. Here in a small museum we are able to see evidence of our ancestors that have been dated back 2.5 million years. After lunch we drive into the Serengeti itself and the rest of the afternoon is spent game viewing in the vast plains that are broken only by stands of acacia trees and the occasional kopje. In December, January and February we will normally meet the migration with large herds of wildebeest, zebra, and gazelle. There are always plenty of resident animals, such as giraffe, buffalo, and elephant, and many large predators such as lion, cheetah, and leopard. We return to our special tented camp for the night. Dinner and overnight at Serengeti Lobo Wildlife Lodge: Full board. Day 10: Game drive in Serengeti National Park: We have another full day in this wonderful park, rising early to make the most of our time. Our guides will choose the best spotting locations for the time of year; we can spend time at the Hippo pool watching these majestic animals laze about in the cool water happily living alongside the crocodiles, watch a big pride of lions, be in the middle of the migration, sometimes surrounded by wildebeest, sometimes by zebras, which travel with the wildebeest. We journey from the wide open plains to the kopjes: these volcanic rocky outcrops provide protection and shelter for a wide variety of animals and from the top we can look out across the vast grasslands of the Serengeti. This diverse and interesting landscape will provide us with the ultimate in game viewing, we will hopefully see all of the plain games; elephants, giraffe, zebra, wildebeest, lions and it you are lucky the elusive leopard and cheetah, as well as huge amounts of interesting bird life, from the elegant secretary birds to the flightless ostrich. We return to our special tented camp for the night. Dinner and overnight at Serengeti Lobo Wildlife Lodge: Full board. Day 11: Serengeti to Ngorongoro Crater: We start the day with an early morning game drive before heading to Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Ngorongoro is a special place in that it is a Conservation Area, not a National Park; this means that the whole area is managed for both the animals and the local Masai people who graze their cattle alongside the indigenous wildlife. During the drive in Ngorongoro we have a chance to glimpse something of the Masai way of life. After stopping at the entrance gate, where there is a chance to learn more about this fascinating volcanic landscape, we will drive around the rim of the Crater itself, and from here we can look down and see the herd of wildebeest or buffalos. Finally we descend into the crater. The crater walls provide a natural sanctuary for the animals, which means there is plenty to see: lions, elephants, buffalo, rhino and leopard (if you are lucky). The only animal you won’t see in here is a giraffe, whose long legs are unable to cope with the steeps sides of the crater. In the late afternoon we travel back to our special tented camp. Dinner and overnight at Ngorongoro Wildlife Lodge: Full board. Day 12: A full day game drive in Ngorongoro Crater. Today we will descend 2000 feet (over 600 meters) to the floor of the Ngorongoro Crater for your crater tour. Here you we will explore the forest areas inhabited by monkeys and elephants, the lake area, where we may see flamingos. We will also visit the open savannah where the lions hunt. Picnic lunch will be served in the crater. In late afternoon we make a short journey to your Lodge. Dinner and overnight at Kirurumo Lodge: Full board. Day 13: Game drive in Lake Manyara National Park: We depart from your lodge and proceed to Lake Manyara National Park. Although small in size, this park is one of the most diverse reserves in the country. Lake Manyara covers two thirds of the park. At the backdrop is the wall of the Great Rift Valley, before which lies the ground water forest, areas of open grassland near the lake foreshore, and the Soda Lake. We enjoy a picnic lunch in this area, which consists of open grassy areas, hot springs, dense woodlands and steep mountainsides. Lake Manyara National Park is a birding paradise that has more than 350 species of bird. The park is also famed for its unique and elusive tree-climbing lions. After lunch time we will drive direct to Kilimanjaro International Airport for the evening flight. Day 14: Arrive in Zanzibar. Arrival at Zanzibar Airport anytime you will meet us at the airport and pick up with private transfer to Stone town. Dinner and overnight at Tembo Hotel: Half board. Day 15: Guided trip in Stone town. Your program starts with a morning visit by walk on our Historical Stone Town Tour. This tour takes you through fabled Stone Town, where history appears to stand still. With visits to the House of Wonders, the Palace Museum (People's Palace) and the Arab Fort amongst others, it is a fascinating look at the essence of Zanzibar. You will see Zanzibar's bustling market, winding alleyways, ornately carved and studded doors, two cathedrals and countless mosques! Dinner and overnight stay at Tembo Hotel: Half board. Day 16: Spice farm and  Jozani Forest trip. Today you go on an excursion to the spice and fruit plantations close to Stone town for the famous Spice Tour. We have developed a special Spice Tour with in depth information not only about spices, but also organically grown herbs and a detailed description about their traditional uses in medicine cosmetics and cooking. After the tour we invite for an opulent lunch at our guides' home, where you can taste the spices and fruits. After lunch we take you to your beach resort. On the way you pass Jozani Forest, the last habitat of the rare endemic Red Colobus Monkey. With a local guide you stroll through Jozani Chwaka National Park and look at the rare monkeys. If you wish you can even wander down the boardwalk to the fascinating Mangrove Ecosystem. . Dinner and overnight stay at Tembo Hotel: Half board. Day 17: Dolphin Trip. One day you go to an excursion to Kizimkazi. Situated on the southern point of the island, Kizimkazi fishing village is home to several schools of bottle-nosed dolphins and Humpback dolphins, which can often be sighted following a short boat trip from the village. If you are lucky, you may be able to swim quite close to the dolphins, which can be a very rewarding experience. We are doing this trip in the afternoon to avoid the crowds of tourists in the morning, which in big numbers disturbing the dolphins. Dinner and overnight stay at Tembo Hotel: Half board. Day 18: Departure day. Depending on your flight schedule and departure point you will be transferred to the Zanzibar Airport to take a flight back home. If you are flying out of Dar es Salaam or Nairobi, we will arrange a connection flight for you to catch your flight back home.   Destination         Group size 2-4 persons  Group size 4-6 persons  Group size 6-8* persons Kili, Safari & ZNZ               Price starts-$4900-pp     Price starts- $4700-pp    Price starts-$4500-pp Price Includes: Hotel lodging the night before and the night after the climb (dinner and breakfast included) (double occupancy) Professional, experienced, mountain guides All Park fees Rescue fees All meals while on the Mountain Arrival and Departure transfers Guides, Porters, cook salaries and park fees Large portions of fresh, healthy, nutritious food Clean, purified drinking water Crisis management and safety procedures: Fair and ethical treatment of porters Supplement summit Emergency Oxygen Walking Poles Flying Doctor Service Sleeping Mattress Private safari guide Private 4 x 4 safari jeep with pop up roof for game viewing All meals whist on safari Airport Arrival/Departure Meet and Greets at the airport On safari – Vehicles equipped with ice chest with mineral water, wildlife guidebooks. Government taxes, VAT and service charges relating to accommodation and included meals All transfers while in Zanzibar. All accommodations on bed, dinner & breakfast Pick up from hotel to Airport for flight All tours & excursion Lunch during tours & excursion Price Excludes: Tanzania Visa: $50 per person on arrival, USA and CANADA passport holders USD.100 Personal Expenses (e.g. laundry, telephone, beverages, etc.) Meals not listed above Optional Tours (balloon rides USD. 500 per person etc) Tips and any items of personal nature Read the full article

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Hassan Ghedi Santur’s “The Youth of God” out on June 1.

Hassan Ghedi Santur’s “The Youth of God” out on June 1.

Hassan Ghedi Santur’s second novel The Youth of God, published by Mawenzi House Publishers, is out on June 1, 2019.

Hassan Ghedi Santur, who emigrated from Somalia to Canada at thirteen years of age, has a BA in English Literature and an MA in journalism from Columbia Graduate School of Journalism. For many years, he worked as a radio journalist for CBC producing long-form documentaries and…

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Mini Review: My Totem Came Calling

Title: My Totem Came Calling

Author: Blessing Musariri & Thorsten Nesch

Genres:  Contemporary

Pages: 182

Publisher: Mawenzi House

Review Copy: ARC from publisher

Availability: Available Sept. 30th

Summary:  Chanda is a seventeen-year-old schoolgirl in Harare, Zimbabwe, who suffers from unexplained memory lapses, which become even more worrisome when she starts seeing her totem animal, a zebra, in all sorts of places. But nobody else can see it.

Afraid of being institutionalized in a hospital, she follows the advice of an old aunt and sets off for her ancestral village, a backward, primitive settlement without the amenities she is used to in the city. But there she meets the rest of her family, including her grandmother, and learns the hard way who she really is--not a superficial, rich city girl with foreign habits but someone who is somebody, whose name carries a history of her African people.

Review: First off, I want to say Thank You to Mawenzi House Publishers for sending me this ARC. I was not expecting it so it was a lovely surprise to receive. You all know I’m all about reading books in translation/international books, so I was excited to read “My Totem Came Calling.”

Unfortunately, upon finishing the novel I was a bit unsettled and I initially couldn’t figure out why. I was drawn into the story, the novel moved at a good pace, so what was it that I felt was missing? Eventually I figured out that I was so into the world of the story that I wanted more, and my writer side came out with the thought that I feel like the two authors could have added much more depth to the novel. I feel like the resolution came too quickly and that Chanda’s acceptance of her self and her family was too easy. She was hesitant to embrace this other part of her almost until the last few pages. I feel like the authors could have slowed down the narrative a bit and have Chanda really explore what it meant to be a part of her family, specifically whom she is named after. The reader learns of the connection between Chanda’s illness and to her name, but Chanda never finds out and I would have loved to know what she would have done with that information. How would the knowledge about her namesake have truly changed Chanda? I really would have loved to the answer to that question and I feel like the authors missed an opportunity to do some deep character development.

On the other hand, getting a glimpse of teen life in Harare, Zimbabwe, especially from the privilege class, was so interesting. There is a tension that existed between those that live in the city versus those that live in the countryside (as in any country) but the difference with this novel is that Chanda’s parents have essentially eschewed the traditional ways for more evangelical Christian, therefore Chanda doesn’t know much about her ancestors and her attitude towards her family is one of condescension. It actually makes her somewhat unlikable, but she’s needs to have that belief in order to find herself and discover the deeper meaning of family.

Over all, I enjoyed the book and learned much about a life so different from my own. It was a wonderful window to peer through and I would recommend for other teens to read.