Zainab Ansell is the powerhouse behind a suite of innovative, socially driven businesses that are transforming tourism and development across Tanzania. Her enterprises are not just profit-making—they are purpose-driven, designed to uplift communities and preserve the beauty of her homeland.
Founded: 1986
Type: Tour Operator – Kilimanjaro Climbing & Wildlife Safaris
Zara Tanzania Adventures is Zainab’s flagship company and one of East Africa’s most respected tour operators. It offers authentic experiences including Kilimanjaro climbs, African safaris, and cultural excursions—all with a strong commitment to responsible tourism.
Key Features:
- Over 30 years of experience
- Employs over 1,000 local guides and staff
- Eco-conscious trekking and wildlife tours
- Partnerships with global conservation efforts
Impact:
Zara Tanzania Adventures has made it possible for thousands of international visitors to explore Tanzania, while directly reinvesting in the communities and ecosystems they visit.

Zita Tanzania Wild Camps.
Hospitality
ZITA Tanzania Wild Camps is a Tanzanian-owned hospitality company specializing in eco-friendly safari accommodations across the country’s premier wildlife destinations. Founded by Zainab Ansell, the company offers a collection of luxury lodges and tented camps designed to provide authentic safari experiences while promoting sustainable tourism and community engagement.
Accommodations and Locations
ZITA Tanzania Wild Camps operates several properties strategically located near Tanzania’s iconic national parks and conservation areas:
- Serengeti Safari Lodge: Situated in the heart of Serengeti National Park, offering panoramic views and close proximity to wildlife.
- Serengeti Wild Camp : Located in the central Serengeti, ideal for wildlife viewing and enjoying nature.
- Serengeti Wildebeest Camp: Located in the central Serengeti, ideal for witnessing the Great Migration.
- Ikoma Wild Camp: Positioned in the buffer zone of the Serengeti ecosystem, providing a secluded safari experience.
- Ngorongoro Wild Camp and Ngorongoro Safari Lodge: Nestled in the southern part of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, offering access to the renowned Ngorongoro Crater.
- Highview Hotel and Highview Coffee Lodge: Located at high elevations above the town of Karatu, serving as convenient bases for exploring nearby parks
Features:
- Eco-friendly operations
- Locally sourced meals
- Comfortable lodging for travelers
- Community-owned and managed workforce
- https://tanzaniawildcamps.com/
. Zara Charity
Education & Child Welfare
Community Support & Development
Career
Zainab began her professional career at Air Tanzania in 1980, where she worked in customer service and operations. Over the course of six years, she gained invaluable experience in airline operations, client management, and logistics, preparing her for her entrepreneurial venture.
In 1986, Zainab founded Zara Tanzania Adventures, starting with a small travel agency. Under her leadership, the company evolved into one of East Africa’s most renowned tour operators
ZITA Tanzania Wild Camps
- Highview Hotel
- Highview Coffee Lodge
- Ikoma Wild Camp
- Ngorongoro Wild Camp
- Serengeti Safari Lodge
- Serengeti Wild Camp
- Serengeti Wild Beast Camp
- Ngorongoro Safari Lodge
Employment History
Leading Woman Taxpayer
Miss Zainab Addan Ansell was awarded as the Leading Woman Taxpayer in Tanzania for the year 2023 (January – December).
Best Tour Operator
Equally, ZARA Tours has been recognized by Tanzania National Parks – TANAPA as the Best Tour Operator (Mountain Climbing).
Best Tour Operator
Equally, ZARA Tours has been recognized by Tanzania National Parks – TANAPA as the Best Tour Operator (Mountain Climbing).
Tourism Awards
Zara Tours has been acknowledged by the Tanzania National Parks Authority (TANAPA) in the inaugural Tourism Awards, which recognize the important contributions of tourism stakeholders in different areas.
Tourism Awards
Zara Tours has been acknowledged by the Tanzania National Parks Authority (TANAPA) in the inaugural Tourism Awards.
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Most Influential Woman in Business and Government
Mrs. Zainab Ansell awarded the Most Influential Woman in Business and Government in East Africa’s Tourism and Leisure Sector (2018/2019).
Top Africa Travel 100 women
Zainab Ansell awarded an award as the top Africa Travel 100 women winner
Sustainable Business Award
Traveler’s Eye presents the Sustainable Business Award honoring Zara Tanzania Adventures.
