Responsible travel does not necessitate having to squat in a mud hut whilst being forced-fed boiled grass.

Travel across the endless plains of the Serengeti to the immense Lake Victoria; descend into the Ngorongoro Crater an ancient collapsed volcano, with the highest concentration of game in Africa. Drive across the truly wild Selous Reserve and not meet another vehicle the whole day and end the day by drinking cocktails as you take a sunset cruise along the Rifuji River. The Udzungwa Mountains a National Park without roads created primarily for the protection of flora rather than fauna. Then to the Spice Islands which are a cultural and culinary delight with a religious mix that is intriguing as it is volatile. These Islands consist of Zanzibar, Pemba and Mafia with Lamu Island further north off the coast of Kenya.

The list could go on – Tanzania is a truly magical place – the African violet the world’s favorite flower discovered in the East Usambara Mountains, Livingstone landed in the ancient slave port of Bagamoyo [which is now a sleepy fishing village north of Dar es Salaam].

Unlike many countries in Africa Tanzania is politically stable, despite the hot blooded people of Zanzibar; the people are always friendly, warm and welcoming. The warmth of the people here is due to the first President of Tanzania, Julius Nyerere, he united the country under the one language of Swahili. There are over 120 different tribes in Tanzania and the situation could have been quite different. Julius Nyerere, referred to as Father of the Nation died in 1999 – he protected and created many National Parks, as he was aware this was the legacy of the people.

Many visitors come and leave Tanzania without knowing that they are able to help the communities to which they visit. The poverty is so great, the corruption out of control the mission appears insurmountable; a task, we think, that should be left to the international charities who know best. However, this is not necessarily true, it is possible for the individual to help. Choose a tour operator that is involved in the community at grass root level - maybe building schools or a clinic or developing infrastructures. It is not necessary to get personally involved, just by relaxing and enjoying you safari, climbing Kilimanjaro or diving off Zanzibar Island you can help. Choose your safari operator with care and you can indeed enjoy your vacation in the knowledge you are making a difference.

Tanga situated on the tropical coast line is surrounded by an area famed for magic and traditional healing. Also found in the town of Tanga is an American research team working with traditional healers and their medicines. They are in partnership with the local people - finding plants that can provide medicine to help in the fight against HIV/AIDS. This work is truly fascinating and they encourage visitors. This is a fascinating place and well worth the effort and time to visit. Guests are welcomed to walk the hills and forests with a traditional healer gathering herbs and plants for medial research. These plants are then propagated for research.

In Africa, a little helps so very much. Making the decision to find a company who helps communities, or better still helps the groups within a community to help themselves. It is the most affective way to create community welfare. Tanzanian’s are a proud people and do not wish to become dependant on handouts. Responsible Tourism is the perfect partner to sustainable development.

Be warned though, once you visit Tanzania it permeates your very soul; you will want to return. Should this happen to you and you wish to become more involved with helping the peoples of Tanzania there are several ways to do this with great effect. The most rewarding however, is to take time out, come to Tanzania for a month or two - maybe even six months or a year and come to work. Work directly with the communities, it will be a most unforgettable experience – a most rewarding partnership, a treasure to keep forever.

There are several companies in Tanzania that help with comminutes and encourage cultural tourism. I ask that if you visit Tanzania or indeed anywhere in Africa you choose a company that genuinely helps the people of the country you visit. I also encourage you to spend time with the different cultures; it is an education and an experience not to be missed – should the opportunity present itself. Take time, slow down, and enjoy your time in Africa. A cultural addition to an African safari does not have to involve squatting on the floor of a mud hut and eating boiled grass – whilst watching a group of village elders [in western dress] dance and chant as they progressively get more and more intoxicated on home-brewed banana beer. It involves talking to people and spending just a little time together. The rewards are great and you will not regret it as long as you take care and use a reputable company to organize a cultural safari suited to you and your needs.