About Tatu Expeditions
Tatu Expeditions Tanzania is a Canadian-owned safari company based in Tanzania, specialising in Human Origins expeditions, wildlife safaris, and cultural experiences across northern Tanzania. We were founded on a simple but powerful idea — that travel should do more than take you somewhere beautiful. It should teach you something, connect you with people, and leave a positive mark on the places you visit.
Tatu's Philosophy
We believe the best travel is educational, not just observational. It asks questions, listens carefully, and treads lightly. At Tatu Expeditions, every safari we design is guided by these principles — locally led, culturally respectful, rooted in knowledge, and completely your own.
Locally Led
Culturally Respectful
Rooted in Knowledge
Custom, not
Pre-packaged
Filling the gap in tanzanian travel
Tatu Expeditions grew out of more than a decade of living, working, and exploring in Tanzania. After years partnering in a Tanzanian safari business, Sandra recognised that the travellers who left most deeply moved were those who had experienced more than wildlife — who had stood at Olduvai Gorge, shared conversations and a meal with local peoples, or learned the natural history of the landscape they were exploring.
At the heart of it all is a conviction that has driven Sandra’s work as an archaeologist and educator for decades — that if we truly understood our shared human ancestry, the world would be a better place. We are one species, and we all started in Africa.
Tanzania is where that story is written most vividly into the landscape. Tatu Expedition was created to bring that story to life — adding depth and meaning to every journey, and connecting travellers to something much larger than themselves.
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The Heart BEHIND TATU
I tagged along on my first archaeological dig at the age of ten. Nearly five decades later, I’m still following that curiosity — just with better insights and a much more spectacular office.
Growing up fascinated by the human past, I went on to study archaeology at the University of Calgary, completing an interdisciplinary PhD and post-doctoral fellowship before spending more than fifteen years as a professor at the University of British Columbia, teaching courses in human evolution, biological anthropology, and world archaeology. I loved every minute of it — but the classroom could only take me so far.
In 2012, I came to Tanzania for the first time to visit the places I had been teaching about for years — Olduvai Gorge, the Laetoli footprints, the Great Rift Valley. This was not about a trip. It became a journey for me. I never really went home. But perhaps I did — because Africa really is home, for all of us.
Since then I have spent over a decade living and working here, building deep relationships with guides, local communities, conservation organizations, and some of the finest camps in the wilderness. I have helped hundreds of people experience Tanzania — and watched them leave transformed.
Tatu Expeditions is the distillation of all of that experience, knowledge, and passion — and the expression of a conviction I have carried my entire career. If we truly understood our shared human ancestry, the world would be a better place. We are one species, and we all started in Africa. Come and see where it all began.
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Community Outreach
At Tatu Expeditions, we believe that meaningful travel goes beyond sightseeing. We are committed to building lasting partnerships with local grassroots organizations working in community development and conservation across Tanzania.
When you travel with us, you contribute directly to the communities you visit — whether through guided visits that generate income for local initiatives, or through donations made on your behalf. Our goal is simple: to ensure that your journey leaves a positive footprint, supporting the people and places that make Tanzania so extraordinary.
As we grow, we look forward to sharing more about the incredible organizations and communities we are proud to work alongside.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are the most common questions we get. Don't see an answer to your question? No worries - reach out to us here, and we'll make sure to help assist in anyway possible.
When is the best time to visit Tanzania?
Tanzania is a year-round destination, but the best time depends on what you want to experience. The dry seasons — June to October and January to February — offer the best wildlife viewing as animals gather around water sources and vegetation is less dense. June to October is also ideal for the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater.
The wet seasons bring lush green landscapes, fewer crowds, and lower prices — and for our Human Origins expeditions, the archaeological sites are spectacular at any time of year. We are happy to help you choose the timing that best suits your interests.
Is Tanzania safe to visit?
Tanzania is one of Africa’s most politically stable and welcoming countries, with a long tradition of peaceful tourism. Northern Tanzania — where most of our safaris take place — is very safe for visitors. As with any international travel, we recommend taking sensible precautions, staying informed, and travelling with experienced local guides. We have deep relationships on the ground and will always keep your safety and comfort as
our top priority.
What should I wear on safari?
Comfort and practicality are key! We recommend lightweight, breathable clothing in neutral colours — khaki, beige, olive, and tan work beautifully in the bush and won’t disturb wildlife. Avoid bright colours and white, which can attract insects and show dust. Long sleeves and trousers are useful at dawn and dusk for warmth and insect protection. A wide-brimmed hat, good walking shoes or boots, and a light fleece or jacket for cool mornings round out the essentials. We will send every guest a full packing list before departure so you arrive perfectly prepared.
Do I need to worry about malaria and mosquitoes?
Malaria is present in Tanzania and we take it seriously — but it is very manageable with the right precautions. We recommend consulting your doctor or a travel health clinic before departure to discuss antimalarial medication, vaccinations, and other health advice tailored to your itinerary. Bringing insect repellent, wearing long sleeves at dawn and dusk, and sleeping under a mosquito net all make a big difference. Our camps are well equipped and we will make sure you have everything you need to stay comfortable and protected throughout your journey.
How fit do I need to be for a safari?
Most of our safaris are suitable for people of all fitness levels — game drives are done comfortably from a vehicle, and walks at archaeological sites are generally gentle and unhurried. We always move at a pace that suits the group. If you have any specific health considerations or mobility concerns, just let us know when we are planning your itinerary and we will make sure everything is tailored accordingly.
What can I do after my safari
Tanzania has so much more to offer beyond the safari circuit! Two of our favourite ways to extend your adventure are:
The Swahili Coast — whether you choose the iconic spice island of Zanzibar or the unspoiled, reef-fringed paradise of Mafia Island, the Tanzanian coast is the perfect way to unwind after your safari. Think white sand beaches, turquoise waters, incredible seafood, and a rich Swahili culture with centuries of history. It is the ideal contrast to the dust and drama of the bush.
Mount Kilimanjaro — for the more adventurous traveller, Africa’s highest peak is one of the world’s most rewarding treks. At 5,895 metres, Kilimanjaro is achievable for fit, determined walkers without technical climbing experience. Standing on the roof of Africa is an experience you will never forget.
We can arrange both seamlessly as part of your Tatu Expeditions journey — just let us know when we are planning your itinerary!
Are there other archaeological and natural history sites to visit in Tanzania
Absolutely — Tanzania is an archaeologically and scientifically rich country that goes far beyond Olduvai Gorge and Laetoli! The region is home to fascinating rock art sites, where ancient paintings offer a vivid window into the lives and beliefs of early peoples. There are also significant Stone Age sites scattered across the landscape, many of which remain little known and rarely visited.
For those with a passion for primatology and anthropology, a visit to Gombe Stream National Park — where Jane Goodall conducted her pioneering research into chimpanzee behaviour — is an extraordinary add-on. Spending time observing our closest living relatives in the wild, in the very place where so much of our understanding of primate behaviour was born, is a deeply moving experience.
Sandra’s archaeological expertise means we can incorporate these sites into custom itineraries in ways that very few operators can offer — bringing them to life with context, knowledge, and genuine passion.
How do I start planning my safari with Tatu Expeditions
It all starts with a conversation! Every safari we design begins with understanding what matters most to you — your interests, travel dates, budget, and the kind of experience
you are looking for. Simply reach out to Sandra directly by email or WhatsApp and we will take it from there. There are no off-the-shelf packages here — just a thoughtful,
personalised journey designed around you.
I look back at the images from our trip and marvel at the experience, the landscapes, the people, the animals… But most especially I marvel that we linked in with you. We benefited from your experience, passion, relationships, and just had such a darn good time sharing the whole trip with you.
...Each day felt like a new journey and each day blew me away...
Jacquie, Vernon, BC Canada
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CULTURAL Expeditions
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