The Western Kilimanjaro region is fairly new to the northern safari circuit of Tanzania. It is not therefore frequented by hordes of safari makers. Little information exists. There is no National Park here and the area is contained in a private concession- a type of private park. It is a very special area sitting on Tanzanias borer with Kenya adjoining Kenyas Amoboseli Park.
I would strongly recommend this area for a few days if you find yourself planning a safari in Tanzania and truly want, unique, off the beaten track and an out of African experience. Many destinations offer these qualities but Western Kilimanjaro truly delivers.
I visited this private concession this weekend. We left Arusha, my driver and I, heading toward Kilimanjaro. An hour out of Arusha we turned left and spent another ninety minutes on a very rough road. It was slow going as the 4 x 4 rattled slowly along the track whist all the time I was wondering if all this would be worth the effort. I was unsure of what to expect but had heard good reports about this new area and so looked forward to a pleasant experience.
My heart sank as we entered the camp. The tents were under local thatch...