Some of the most iconic moments in the legend and real history of David Livingstone's explorations emanate from Tanzania. The reporter and explorer HM Stanley famously met Livingstone at Ujiji on Lake Tanganyika with the reputed words of "Dr Livingstone, I presume." The starting and endpoint of many of his journeys was Zanzibar, where you can visit Livingstone House in Stone Town. Some wood from the mpundu tree over which Livingstone's heart was buried in Zambia was made into a cross, and this now hangs in the Anglican Cathedral in Stone Town.
David Livingstone made his departure for his last expedition, the discovery of the source of the Nile, from Mikindani on the Indian Ocean coast, where you can also visit another Livingstone House.
As we end these articles about the various celebrations concerning the great man's birth, it is possible to look at his record in this twentieth-first century with a more critical eye. Whereas he abhorred slavery, he still took shelter, victuals and hospitality from the very Arab slave traders he so detested. His three C's of "Christianity, Commerce and Civilisation" was a very British worldview that was instrumental in unleashing some of the scramble for Africa and domination of the African peoples by the European nations.
That being said, no one can doubt his substantial achievements or his sincerity in achieving them. He was pivotal in abolishing slavery in this region of Africa. He was responsible for the conversion of huge numbers of Africans to Christianity. He explored and mapped vast regions of terra incognito in Africa. He experimented extensively with quinine as an antidote to malaria. Perhaps most telling is that he is still widely respected, loved and revered by many millions of Africans to this day, and that should be enough of a legacy for any man.
Apart from various church and religious services in Tanzania, no particular events are planned to celebrate the bicentenary. If any of our readers know of anything in particular or would like more information on travelling in Tanzania, please would you communicate with our consultants?
Celebrating David Livingstone In Tanzania by Uyaphi.com
Park Hyatt Zanzibar
The Park Hyatt Zanzibar brings that touch of luxury and class that Stone Town has been missing for so long. One of the island's top hotels and lodge options for honeymooners and romantics alike.
The Park Hyatt offers a superb position from which to explore all that is a UNESCO World Heritage site - Stone Town.
Siwandu Camp
Siwandu Camp in the Selous Game Reserve is spread along the lake shore, and is designed to blend in with the spectacular natural Selous scenery in what is one of the most photogenic areas, each of the nine safari tents sits atop its own raised timber platform.
Perfectly positioned close to the Rufiji River system for spectacular wildlife and game drive options when on safari in the Selous.
Bluebay Beach Resort
Bluebay Resort is situated on the finest wide, white, sandy beach on the island of Zanzibar, located on the East Coast in an area known as Kiwengwa, the resort is only 35 minutes drive from the town and the airport on a tarmac road.
A lodge resort that offers Wi-Fi, a laundry service, room service, and is perfect for families and romantics alike.
Tarangire Simba Lodge
Tarangire Simba Lodge located within Tanzania's amazing Tarangire National Park is an attractive option for those interested in experiencing all that this region has to offer.
Tarangire Simba Lodge is ideal for small groups, couples and families.
Diamonds Mapenzi Beach Club
On the East Coast in a secluded tropical setting, the Mapenzi Beach Club is set above a powdery white sand beach about 50 minutes from Stonetown and about one hour from the airport, comfortable accommodation refined in every detail.
The perfect beach lodge with white sand beaches and an exceptional beach bar. One of Zanzibar's best.Singita Sasakwa Lodge
Singita Sasakwa Lodge is situated on top of Sasakwa Hill with panoramic views of the vast Plains below; this Serengeti National Park lodge is built in the style of an East African ranch house.
If it's solitude you seek, then Grumeti Reserves is the place to be, game drive safaris near the Grumeti River are fantastic year round.
Sand Rivers Selous
Sand Rivers Selous on the banks of the Rufiji River in one of Africa's largest reserves offers a blend of classic safari elegance and that rugged bush adventure feel.
A small and intimate Selous camp with just eight rooms and suites and more activities that one can shake a stick at.
andBeyond Grumeti Serengeti River Lodge
andBeyond Grumeti Serengeti River Lodge, with ten tented suites on the banks of the Grumeti River, offers seasonal sightings of the Great Wildebeest Migration, including river crossings.
Located in an area of the Serengeti famed for its high densities of cheetahs, numerous prides of lions and solitary leopards.