About Tartaruga Safaris
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Slow Down. See More.
Tartaruga Safaris is a Tanzania safari company based in Arusha. We plan wildlife safaris, mountain climbs, cultural experiences and island holidays around your interests, available time and preferred comfort.
Our name, Tartaruga, means tortoise or turtle in Portuguese. It reflects our belief that a rewarding journey makes time for patience, observation, connection and discovery. Watch a little longer, ask another question and enjoy the place you are in.
Curated With Care
Your route, accommodation and daily pace are chosen around what matters to you.
Explore With Ease
Clear plans and a direct contact with our team help you prepare for your journey.
Our Vision
To become one of Tanzania’s leading and most trusted safari companies, creating authentic and responsible travel experiences while opening meaningful employment and career opportunities for young Tanzanians.
We want our growth to benefit the people and places that make each journey possible: our guests, our team, local communities and Tanzania’s natural heritage.
Our Mission
We create authentic, responsible and unforgettable journeys that invite travellers to slow down and connect with wildlife, nature and local cultures.
Through personal planning, clear communication and respectful local partnerships, we help guests discover Tanzania at their own pace. We also aim to develop skills, create employment for young Tanzanians and contribute positively to communities and conservation.
Everyone Is Welcome
We welcome travellers of every race, gender, religion, tribe and nationality. We respect human rights, local communities, wildlife and the places we visit.
Slow Down. See More. Create More.
“Create More” expresses our ambition to create jobs, skills and careers for young Tanzanians as the company grows.

Our Leadership
Rebeka Philipo — CEO
Rebeka Philipo is the CEO of Tartaruga Safaris, appointed by the Board of Directors. She oversees the company’s daily operations and reports to the Board, ensuring that the business follows its vision and mission and works towards its goals.
Her role connects the company’s long-term direction with day-to-day service: supporting the team, coordinating operations and helping ensure that guests receive clear communication and carefully planned journeys.
Contact our team: info@tartarugasafaris.com
Phone / WhatsApp: +255 667 767 553
Tour Organizer & Consultant
Mr James Yona
Born and raised in Arusha, Mr James Yona is your main point of contact at Tartaruga Safaris. His experience spans wildlife safaris, mountain climbing, Zanzibar beach holidays, Kenya and Rwanda safaris, and cultural tours in Tanzania.
Tourism Experience
Years in the tourism industry
Experience with three companies and more than 300 safaris and travel experiences organised.
Three Key Strengths
- Local knowledge: Born and raised in Arusha, with experience planning varied journeys.
- Thoughtful planning: Recommends routes and packages around your travel dates, interests and available days.
- Personal coordination: Organises guides and arrangements, with clear communication throughout your trip.
Languages & Communication
Fluent English
Discuss your ideas, ask questions and receive clear explanations about your itinerary and travel arrangements directly from James.
Before, During & After
- Before: Answers emails and questions, recommends your itinerary and coordinates guides.
- During: Available 24/7 to support you and coordinate your arrangements.
- After: Follows up for your feedback and listens to your experience.
Contact James
Email: info@tartarugasafaris.com · sales@tartarugasafaris.com · res@tartarugasafaris.com
Phone: +255 667 767 553 · WhatsApp available 24/7.
Planning & Booking
Build your route with our team and review the named services in your written quotation.
Read MoreGuidance & Support
Discuss your questions and practical needs before travelling, and keep in touch during your journey.
Read MoreJourneys at Your Pace
Combine wildlife, mountains, cultural visits and beach time in a route that suits your available days.
Read MoreThoughtful Journeys, Personal Planning
From your first enquiry to your final transfer, the details should support the experience you want.
Time to Discover
Choose a realistic route with time to observe wildlife and enjoy each stop.
Clear Arrangements
Review accommodation, inclusions and payment arrangements before confirming.
Local Connections
Experience Tanzania with driver-guides and cultural visits led by local hosts.
Your Preferred Pace
Tell us your interests and comfort needs so we can shape the daily programme.
Three Ways to Discover Tanzania
Combine these experiences or take time to enjoy one.

Wildlife Safaris
Explore Tanzania’s parks with a route shaped around your travel dates and interests.

Culture & Connection
Make time for locally hosted experiences and respectful exchanges with your hosts.

Safari & Beach
Add a relaxed island stay to your safari or mountain journey.
Tell us what you would love to experience.

