Zara Tanzania Adventures Crowned Best Mount Kilimanjaro Operator at Serengeti Awards 2026
Among top contenders nationwide, Zara Tanzania Adventures stood out for its exceptional safety record, professional guiding, and carefully curated Mount Kilimanjaro trekking experiences.
SUNDAY February 1, 2026
By Adam Ihucha
The Tranquility News Correspondent, Tanzania
For travellers dreaming of standing on the Roof of Africa, one name now rises above the rest. Zara Tanzania Adventures has been named Best Mount Kilimanjaro Operator of the Year 2026 at Tanzania’s prestigious Serengeti Awards, reaffirming its position as a world-class leader in high-altitude adventure travel.
The award was announced at the second edition of the Serengeti Awards ceremony held in Arusha, Tanzania’s northern safari hub, celebrating excellence and innovation across the country’s tourism industry.
Among top contenders nationwide, Zara Tanzania Adventures stood out for its exceptional safety record, professional guiding, and carefully curated Mount Kilimanjaro trekking experiences.
Founded and led by the acclaimed entrepreneur, Ms Zainab Ansell, the female-owned company is based on the southern foothills of Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest peak and one of the world’s most iconic adventure destinations.
With more than 40 years of operational experience, Zara Tanzania Adventures has become the operator of choice for international climbers seeking personalised, seamless, and deeply rewarding journeys to Uhuru Peak.
Renowned for its tailor-made climbing itineraries, the company caters for solo travelers, private groups, families, and international expeditions—offering a rare blend of local expertise, global standards, and authentic cultural immersion.
The award was among 51 honours presented during the high-profile gala organised by Tanzania’s Ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism on January 31, 2026, at the Mount Meru Hotel.
The event brought together tourism leaders, international partners, and policymakers from around the world.
Speaking at the ceremony, the country’s Prime Minister, Dr Mwigulu Nchemba, the Guest of Honour, highlighted tourism’s growing role in Tanzania’s economic development and its global image as a premier travel destination.
The Tourism Minister, Dr Ashantu Kijaji, noted that the Serengeti Awards recognise companies, organisations and individual professionals that consistently elevate Tanzania’s tourism offering through quality service, innovation, and sustainability.
Receiving the award, Ms Ansell credited the company’s success to its people, clients, and long-standing commitment to excellence.
“Our customised services, innovation, and decades of experience have brought us to this moment,” she said, adding: “Being recognised as Tanzania’s Best Mount Kilimanjaro Operator is a tremendous honour and a proud milestone for our entire team.”
She also thanked the international travelers whose trust and votes contributed to the win.
“We’re deeply grateful to our clients from around the world. While we’ve received many awards over the years, this recognition is especially humbling. To be named the finest Mount Kilimanjaro service provider is truly extraordinary,” Ms Ansell explained.
The 2026 accolade further strengthens Zara Tanzania Adventures’ global reputation and reflects its unwavering focus on safety, reliability, expert mountain crews, and exceptional guest experiences—key factors for international climbers tackling one of the world’s most celebrated summits.
Ms Ansell herself is among Africa’s most decorated tourism leaders, having received over 25 local, regional, and international awards, including Africa’s Leading Adventure Tour Operator 2025 (World Travel Awards), Most Trusted Tour Operator (Consumer Choice Awards), and recognition as one of Africa Travel’s Top 100 Women.
Tanzania National Parks has also repeatedly named Zara Tours the country’s best operator for both safaris and mountain climbing.
Beyond accolades, the company’s success is built on strong teamwork—from highly trained mountain guides and porters to logistics, safety, and guest relations teams.
“This award belongs to our mountain crews, operations staff, and partners who uphold the highest international standards every single day,” Ms Ansell said. “Together, we create journeys that change lives.”
With a strong commitment to responsible tourism, community empowerment, and authentic local engagement, Zara Tanzania Adventures offers more than a climb—it delivers meaningful travel experiences that connect guests to Tanzania’s landscapes, culture, and people.
As the company continues innovating and refining its itineraries, its promise remains clear: Unforgettable moments and lasting impressions for every traveller.
For international adventurers seeking a trusted, award-winning partner to conquer Mount Kilimanjaro—and explore Tanzania beyond—Zara Tanzania Adventures stands as a benchmark of excellence in African adventure tourismΩ
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Adam Ihucha is a prominent Tanzanian journalist and author recognized for his extensive coverage of tourism, wildlife conservation, and economic issues in East Africa. Based in Arusha, he serves as a senior correspondent for The Tranquility News and is a long-time contributor to eTurboNews (eTN), where he provides global insights into Tanzania's travel industry.
Throughout his career, Ihucha has written for several major publications, including The Guardian (Tanzania) and The EastAfrican. His work frequently highlights the intersection of environmental conservation and economic development, covering critical topics such as anti-poaching initiatives, national park management, and regional trade within the East African Community. His journalism is noted for its advocacy for sustainable tourism and its role in documenting the achievements of Tanzania's tourism sector.
Email contact: ihucha@tranquilitynews.com
