A ‘slow safari’ demands patience, tolerance and composure but the rewards can be infinite. It is a deceptively simple concept pioneered by Little Chem Chem in northern Tanzania: instead of setting out in a 4x4 to look for game to tick off a list, drive out, park, wait and let the animals come to you. This respect for the rhythms of nature has many benefits – it is less tiring, less dusty and can be the conduit to seeing more uninhibited and relaxed animal interaction.
Little Chem Chem is small but perfectly formed, with an emphasis on a visceral connection to the bush and a strong association with community development through the Lifewildlive partnership. Set in a 4 000ha protected area between Tarangire National Park and Lake Manyara in northern Tanzania, Little Chem Chem offers guests unique experiences, such as morning jogs with a Maasai guard to accompany you, a professional photographer to capture your vacation if you choose and sunset cocktails on the edge of untamed Lake Manyara with thousands of feasting flamingos and pelicans. They will also teach you how to track animals from spoor and droppings, and tasty ‘bush cooking’ experiences. Because it is owner-occupied, service is consistently outstanding.
Decked with antique brass telescopes and oversized leather wingbacks in the library, Little Chem Chem is tented-safari heaven for those seeking true solace in the African wilderness.
