Our Company Story: An Interview with Roman Shirima

September 24, 2024 at 11:17 am, No comments

Meet Roman Shirima, founder of our family owned Tanzanian safari business, Tanzania Safari Experts – ROM & DACE SAFARIS, and an experienced safari driver-guide.

Roman, a native of the Kilimanjaro region and a member of the Chaga tribe, has spent his entire professional life in tourism.

His deep knowledge of Tanzania’s national parks and his experience working with travelers make him an exceptional guide for exploring the country’s wildlife.

How did you get into the tourism industry?

My journey in tourism started when I was young. After completing driving school, I began working as a driver. One day, I received an offer that changed my life. A Tanzanian tour company owner invited me to join his team as a safari driver-guide. This meant I would drive tourists to the national parks and introduce them to Tanzania’s wildlife. That was over 20 years ago, and since then, I’ve been actively working in tourism, helping travelers from all over the world experience the wonders of Tanzania’s nature.

I’ve always had a love for wildlife, and this job gives me the opportunity to spend a lot of time in the national parks. Every safari is unique, and that's one of the reasons I enjoy it so much.

What makes a safari so special?

Before the COVID-19 pandemic, we often conducted cross-border safaris, adding trips to Malawi and Mozambique. In recent years, together with Dace Zandfelde, who is also a passionate traveler, we’ve explored Kenya, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and Botswana. These experiences allow us to broaden our horizons and offer even more enriching adventures to our guests.

Is working with international tourists challenging?

I see it more as an enriching experience. Working with tourists from different parts of the world has given me the opportunity to learn about their cultures, and sometimes even pick up words in various languages. I’ve worked with guests from Europe, North America, Asia, and other regions, but in recent years, most of my clients have come from Belgium, Germany, France, and Italy. Every interaction is an opportunity to exchange knowledge, and that’s one of the greatest joys of my job.

What should travelers know about Tanzania?

Tanzania is a country that offers not only stunning natural beauty but also a rich cultural heritage. One of the most extraordinary experiences in Tanzania is the Great Migration in the Serengeti National Park. This natural phenomenon, where millions of wildebeest and zebras migrate in search of food, is truly unforgettable. It’s a spectacular display of nature that draws wildlife enthusiasts from around the world.

Which places would you recommend visiting in Tanzania?

There are so many unforgettable places to visit in Tanzania. My top recommendations include Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Crater, and, of course, Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest peak. Zanzibar, with its white sandy beaches and rich history, is another great destination where you can enjoy the beauty of the Indian Ocean. I also highly recommend visiting Nyerere National Park (formerly known as Selous Game Reserve), which is the largest national park in Africa. There, you can take a boat ride along the Rufiji River, offering a completely different experience compared to the Serengeti plains.

What are some must-see places in Dar es Salaam?

Dar es Salaam is Tanzania’s largest city and a major cultural and economic hub. For those interested in exploring Tanzania’s history and culture, I suggest visiting the National Museum and the Village Museum (Ethnographic Museum), where you can learn about the roots of Swahili culture. If you're looking for souvenirs, the Mwenge Carvings Market is a fantastic place to find authentic handcrafted items.

Karibu – Welcome to Tanzania!

At our safari company, we believe that a trip to Tanzania is more than just a journey – it’s an opportunity to experience unforgettable moments, connect with the rhythms of nature, and discover the soul of Tanzania. I look forward to helping you explore this amazing land and experience its breathtaking natural beauty.