Have you heard of SafariHub, an exciting new London-based online travel agency that specializes in the East African region? My guess is that you haven’t–but if you love to travel with your family, it’s one you should know about.
This exciting new company will offer clients an unusual range of activities including tailor made family safaris, breathtaking honeymoons, diving, mountain climbing, and beach getaways which can be perfectly tailored for couples, and solo travelers. I had a virtual cup of coffee with Dilip Navapurkar, owner of SafariHub and asked him about Tanzania (home to three of the seven natural wonders of the world and the largest natural game park) and more.
Samantha Feuss- Tell me a bit about why you decided to start this touring company?
Dilip Navapurkar- Being born and brought up in Tanzania I came to value and appreciate the touristic features this country had to offer and had always wanted to be involved in the Safari industry. It was discouraging to see neighboring countries receiving a lot more tourists and publicity although they had less than a fifth of what Tanzania had. By studying in the UK and having have lived here for many years, I was able to look at Tanzania from the perspective of a tourist and by having the knowledge of both, I was able to establish an online system that would assist in bringing Tanzania to the forefront of the Safari industry. Having have met my fellow business partners with similar enthusiasm, we decided to make this a reality, and we are hoping that Safarihub will be one of the leading safari operators in Tanzania by 2015.
SF– How is this company different from other safari operators?
DN– Safarihub currently has the largest online database of safaris, hotels and lodges in Tanzania. What makes Safarihub unique is it’s main feature as a one stop shop for all enthusiasts wishing to visit Tanzania. We have included all of the popular activities under one roof from booking a safari and scuba diving excursion in Zanzibar to hot air ballooning over the Serengeti. We have agreements with the leading ground handlers in the country with the best safari vehicles and our prices are still the most competitive on the market.
SF– That sounds like an easy booking experience. You are working with other directors- how did you come to work together?
DN– This was by sheer coincidence. During a conversation regarding a separate business deal, I mentioned the touristic marvels Tanzania had to offer and how poorly the country has been marketed. They spotted an opportunity in the Safari business. After a 10 day trip to Tanzania and Zanzibar, they were hooked on the idea and the vast potential for tourists- upon return to London a business partnership was established.
SF– What about Tanzania itself made you want to specialize in the area?
DN– Tanzania is a beautiful country and blessed with natural beauty, it has the highest mountain in Africa, and some of the biggest game reserves in the world teeming with wildlife. It is also home to sandy white tropical beaches with some of the best marine parks in the world, and is home to the only known source of Tanzanite, a rare gemstone. We have come to realize that Tanzania is an extremely under marketed country, which is sad because it is such a wonderful place to visit.
SF– It sounds like an amazing place, indeed. What does your group do best, that will make people choose SafariHub over any other?
DN– Our prices are extremely competitive, and we have put together some of the most exciting itineraries that incorporates Tanzania’s best tourist attractions. We also have a bespoke service where we can tailor make your safari to your specific requirements. For example, if you want to have an overnight at a camp site under the African sky or stay in a luxurious five star lodge with your own plunge pool overlooking a hippo pool, it can all be arranged. We take pride in what we do and our customer satisfaction is second to none.
SF– That sounds amazing, and it’s wonderful that you recognize that people travel differently. Why should people want to travel to Tanzania instead of other African destinations?
DN– Tanzania is home to the highest mountain in Africa, the great wildebeest migration also known as the 7th natural wonder of the world, the Ngorongoro crater (which is the 8th natural wonder of the world), and the tropical island of Zanzibar. It is a beautiful and peaceful country with diverse cultures and the most hospitable people.
SF– Is this a good destination for families?
DN– Tanzania is becoming a very popular destination for families mainly due to the fact that is different to the box standard holidays. Children love animals and the adventurous aspect of a safari is very exciting for everyone old and young. We do not recommend safaris for families with children under the age of 7.
SF– Do you offer discounts to families or small children?
DN– Yes, there are discounts for family and small children.
SF– How long is the ideal trip?
DN– The ideal safari would be 7-9 days.
SF– What is the most special part about travel in Tanzania?
DN– Tanzania is a vast country and caters for all different types of travelers. It is a destination you will never forget- the diverse wilderness and cultures make this country a truly authentic place. You can fly from the Savannahs of the Serengeti to the tropical island paradise of Zanzibar in just 45 minutes. There is so much to see and experience that time will be your only factor.
SF– If someone was interested in booking a trip with your group, what is the best way to contact you?
DN– The easiest way is to book the package online on our website www.safarihub.net or if you want a bespoke itinerary you can email us on info@safarihub.net
SF– Thanks so much for taking the time to talk with us, it sounds like you are going to be busy with booking trips, and we appreciate your time. Happy trails to you!
