Zara Tours
- Offices In:
-
Canada
- Size:
- 250+ employees (Founded in 1987)
- Member Of:
- ATTA, IATA, ASTA, TATO, TTB, WITIA & STI
- Tour Types:
- Mid-range & luxury tours that, when possible, use accommodations owned and operated by them
- Destinations:
- Price Range:
- $100 to $590 per person per day (USD, excl. int'l flights)
Your request will be sent directly to the operator
If preferred, you can contact the operator directly
Reviews
CA
Email Miguel, Barbara y Homero | 65+ years of age | Experience level: first safari
Hakuna matata!
Hakuna Matata!
We had planned an adventure of a lifetime: visiting Africa for the first time, and going on a photographic safari in Tanzania’s wildlife parks! But, we actually got more than that, thanks to Zara!
Things started going well since we first contacted them, and started planning our trip (without actually knowing what we were getting into). A very well trained customer-relations clerk, Pearl, returned our call and put us in the right direction, establishing the contact with our local (Tanzanian) contact person, Hamis. We followed with all sorts of questions, and all our concerns and queries were addressed and answered.
This followed with our actual arrival at Kilimanjaro Airport, where friendly staff (Tudi) was waiting for each of us, and friendly drivers (Omari and Mombole) not only safely drove us (accommodating our different arrival times) but also served as initial tour guides, pointing out landmarks along the way, answering all sorts of questions, and teaching us our first Swahili words.
The first day in Tanzania, lodged at the Springland Hotel, allowed for a good rest, after the transatlantic flight and numerous connections, and got us nicely refreshed after a hearty breakfast for our induction briefing. And, early next day, off we went! Startled by the sight of Mount Kilimanjaro, proudly rising over the prairie, with its snow-capped top overlooking the valley.
The expert guidance of our driver, Hamza, was present since the first kilometers. The driving was safe and smooth. The jeep was in pristine condition (and we have to praise Hamza for maintaining it as such, even after long days of driving in dirt and muddy roads, as each day it was as if the car had just been picked up from the dealer), and the stops along the way were well planned and well spaced. When we least expected it (and most needed it), there was a coffee/restroom available. When we were sufficiently introduced to the local culture, there was a stop to highlight the history of the place, or an amazing shop to buy souvenirs. When we were totally wiped out by hours and hours of safari, there was an amazing hotel waiting for us. When we started to get hungry, there was a well-prepared lunch or a tasty dinner. When we needed a hearty breakfast, the offer was ample. Oh, and don’t forget the highly-appreciated Tanzanian coffee!
Tarangire, the Serengeti, Ngorongoro crater, lake Manyara, and so many landmarks along the way, were more than we expected. Amazing wild life; extremely well kept environments; professional dedication of the tour guides; exceptionally clean facilites; and so much friendliness! It all contributed to the phrase/attitude that we heard so many times along the way: Hakuna matata! (i.e., everything is fine; enjoy life; take it easy).
At the end of each day, we had superb nights in the different lodgings provided by Zara, ranging from the friendly Highview Coffee Lodge in Karatu to the tent-based (glamping at its best!) Serengeti Safari Lodge, expertly managed by Nambapa (manager) and Eliza (assistant manager), proud members of the Maasai, who also became our WhatsApp friends. And, a special mention to the invaluable Maasai warriors, who spend the night outdoors, taking turns to sleep under the stars, so they may keep watch over the elephants, lions, and other big animals that wander through their domains over the Serengeti plains, coming sometimes too close to our tents; as attested by their calls/grunts!
In summary: Everything Zara says about itself in its website is but a humble representation of their accomplishments; reality surpasses it! We would (and will) go back for another unforgettable experience, as soon as we can!
ES
Email Robert Fernandez | 50-65 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Amazing
I was guided up Kilimanjaro and safary by Zara tours in Febreaury, 2022. I was extremely impressed by and happy with Zara Tours. Our lead and assistant guides, Muhsin for the climber and Khalid for the safari in 3 parks in 3 days was extraordinary (the best for safari ngorongoro). Based on me experience, and the obvious respect the other guides on the mountain and safari, I think I probably had the most qualified lead guide on the mountain and safari.
Based on my experience, I absolutely recommend Zara Tours.
Asante Sana.
Robert.
Email Pete | 50-65 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Very happy with and impressed by Zara Tours
My wife and I were guided and pampered up Kilimanjaro by Zara tours in September, 2022. We were extremely impressed by and happy with Zara Tours. Our lead and assistant guides, Saidi and Meddi, were genuinely extraordinary. Based on our experience, and the obvious respect the other guides on the mountain had for Saidi, I think we probably had the most qualified lead guide on the mountain. Based on our experience, we absolutely recommend Zara Tours. Pete & Barb in Boise
Wonderful Experience on Kilimanjaro thanks to Yohana and Anna!
Very gladly we look back on a great experience on Kilimanjaro. Thanks to our excellent guides Yohana and Anna and the whole team we actually reached the summit. We can recommend Yohana and Anna without reservation. They have a great experience and motivated us. They know very well about mountain guiding but also about vegetation. We have learned a lot and have returned with many beautiful memories of a great time.
Isabel &Uli
BE
Email Peeters | 35-50 years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
Unforgettable Kilimanjaro Experience
Zara Tours did a perfect job of organizing our Kilimanjaro trekking trip.
We took the Machame route and it took us six days to get us to the summit.
We had an experienced support crew led by Senior guide Moses assisted by Issa.
The tents were comfortable and the chef cooked nice food.
Thank you for a very well organized trip.
Email Taylor | 20-35 years of age | Experience level: over 5 safaris
Great Kilimanjaro Climbing
I am very happy that we booked our Kilimanjaro trek with Zara Tours. They actually did exceptionally well in all aspects of the climb. Communication during the planning phase was excellent, Mike was had timely responses and answered our numerous questions in detail. When it came to make payments the system was secure and there were no hidden charges.
Our experience in Tanzania was awesome from start to finish.
The team played their roles extremely well, from the professional friendly guides, porters, chef and toilet duty were excellent. We had reliable excellent equipment and a professionals team with us all through.
We are very happy that we made it safely to the summit.
I fully recommend Zara Tours for Kilimanjaro
NL
Email Bert | 50-65 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Expectations exceeded
We went on a 6 day safari to Tarangire, Serengeti, Ngorongoro and Lake Manyara with guide/driver Joseph. He is an expert driver and very good company, with also a good radar of when to provide information and when to Just let you enjoy the moment. The car was super, routes perfect and hotels better than expected, with Ikoma Wildcamp as absolute best.
CH
Email Matteo Keller | 50-65 years of age | Experience level: over 5 safaris
Amazing Tanzania Adventure
A huge vote of thanks goes to Zara Tours and our fantastic guide Madeal for a wonderful trip in Tanzania. Communication with Zara was smooth all the way. Madeal went above and beyond to ensure we were comfortable and also saw all the animals we had hoped for. The safari was well planned starting from Lake Manyara National Park, followed by Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro Crater. Madeal was knowledgeable as he had an answer for every question. Accommodation at Zara properties was wonderful in nice clean facilities and welcoming staffs. We highly recommend Zara Tours and ask for Madeal to be your guide.
Email Sara | 20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
The adventurous route
We took the Rongai route because we liked the idea of being on the trail less traveled. We loved having plenty of space to be on our own but still have people around to socialize with. Our Zara guides were incredibly helpful, kind, generous, and good humored. When we got to Kibo camp and saw the cabin dwellers with the proper mattresses to sleep on, we felt a little envious but I'm absolutely not sorry that we chose the adventurous route. I had a lot of trouble with altitude symptoms, but our guide was very attentive. My fiancé and I both made it to the top, but I really struggled. Our guide, assistant, guide, and our book came up with us to keep me safe and sang a jaunty song to me to motivate me all the way to the top. We had a positively memorable experience, and the Zara guides could not have been any better to us!
AT
Email Harry | 50-65 years of age | Experience level: first safari
unforgettable week
My family and I have just recently finished a 7-day safari with your agency. We were accompanied the entire time by your staff member, Mr. Baraka Sospeter. And Mr. Cessey (Casey??) was our driver.
From the moment of our arrival to the time of our departure both of these men were constantly concerned for our comfort and well-being as well as committed to fulfilling all our wishes. Using his exceptional command of the German language and his extensive knowledge, Mr. Sospeter presented us much information about the land and its people. He was always courteous, polite and punctual, was always in a cheerful mood, and above all was always professional and thorough concerning our safety.
Mr. Cessey (Casey??), with his perfect knowledge of the area, was an ideal match and complement. At no time did we ever have the feeling he was not in total control of the situation or that he had put us in danger.
Lastly, although the Christmas celebrations fell in this period, both men never seemed tired or distracted.