Friday, 15 August 2014

Zanzibari's Natural wonderland


 
ABOUT TAZARI CAVES

When you’re looking for adventure in the beautiful island of Zanzibar, Tazari caves is a must visit.  Located in Northern Peninsular of Zanzibar - Nungwi,Tazariunderground caves prove to be the biggest and most extensive caves in Zanzibar and among the largest limestone caves in Tanzania. The caves are believed to have been formed many centuries ago, covering an area of more than 100km2. The heights of the cave vary from 5ft to 30ft. The magnificent caves are located a few miles from the ocean shores; you can have a beautiful view of the ocean coastline from the peak of the caves.




 
An instructor posing with some tourists during their tour at Tazari Caves
          
             The instructors with tourists enjoying the natural beauty of Tazari caves in Zanzibar


 



The caves were discovered a couple years ago by community members of Benderani, though they are believed to have existed for millions of years.

It is believed that in ancient days some people lived in the caves, there are evidences of broken pots, fireplaces and foot trails.

Also, the caves are believed to have been used as hiding places for slaves during the Sultan regime in pre-colonial Zanzibar era of the Arab slave trade. There are evidences of broken chains believed to be hundreds of years old.

The caves interior is composed of large cone-shaped stalactites that hang down from the ceiling and stalagmites that grow upward from the floor of the cave as a result of water dripping from the stalactites.
 

 

The Tazari caves have magnificent carbonate and sulfate rocks – limestone and dolomite with decorative dripstones (speleotherms) that are believed to have taken thousands of years to form!



Beautiful weather

 
The cave passages are composed of sand, clay and stratified gravel.
Inside the caves, is a home to very huge African bats.
Our attractions include:
·         Large stalactites and stalagmites.
·         Popo flight - (Popo means bat in Swahili). Many of them live in the caves. Every evening at sunset they fly out of the cave entrance.
·         Beautiful view of the coastline from the caves
 
Where we are located:
In Nungwi, Tazari village.300metres from the main road at the corner before reaching the Fire Brigade Offices on your way from stone town. The caves are accessible on foot, bike and by car.
From stone town, board a car to Nungwi (about 40kms). Just before the Nungwi fire brigade offices, make a right turn at KwaJuma Rama, you’ll see our signpost by the roadside.
 



     
We offer the following services

1.    Caving

2.    Biking from Hamburu, along the coastline to the Tazari caves.

3.    Hiking.

4.    Picnic and camping site near the caves.

5.    Zanzibari coffee.

6.    Masaai cultural artifacts.

7.    Speleology.

Our staffs

We have trained and qualified emergency first response personnel and instructors to take you around the caves.

About your safety:

The caves are regularly inspected by the Government and approved four touring.

TazariCaves safety rules for tourists

·         Follow the cave instructors on your way in and out of the cave.

·         Take three dependable and independent sources of light.

·         Wear sturdy shoes that protect the ankle and have non-leather, non-skid, non-marking soles.

·          Bring gloves and kneepads if necessary.

·         Wear a helmet to protect against low ceilings.

·          Travel in groups of three or more for safety.

·         Stay within your abilities and experience level to avoid injuring yourself and to avoid damaging the cave.

·         Always watch for and avoid poisonous creatures such as snakes and insect

 

 
TazariCaves Conservation & Ethics Tips

 

1.    Plan ahead, be prepared, and know what to expect from the cave you are visiting.

2.    Choose appropriate clothing, equipment, and safety gear.

3.    Move carefully through the cave to avoid damaging cave features.

4.    Stay on established trails.

5.    Pack it in; pack it out – including all human waste. Take out everything you take in, and leave nothing in the cave.

6.    Leave what you find; never remove natural or historic features from cave.

7.    Respect wildlife, and avoid disturbing or killing cave wildlife, including bats, cave crickets and all other living things in the cave.

8.    Respect other visitors – while in the cave area, stay quiet and keep a clean camp.

 


 
Contacts: +255 653 912 475