Get to Know the Faces Behind BlueGreen Tanzania Safaris – In the Hot Seat: Mathanje

11 July 2024

Get to Know the Faces Behind BlueGreen Tanzania Safaris

In the Hot Seat: Mathanje

This month, we’re shining the spotlight on Mathanje Meulemans — co-founder of BlueGreen Tanzania Safaris and the heart behind many of the company’s innovations, operations, and group travel experiences. Splitting her time between the Netherlands and Tanzania, Mathanje brings both entrepreneurial spirit and a deep love for the country that inspired her journey back in 2015.

Our Get to Know the Faces Behind BlueGreen Tanzania Safaris series takes you behind the scenes to meet the people who turn dream safaris into reality. From personal stories to expert tips, this is your chance to connect with the people who make your adventure unforgettable.

5 Questions With… Mathanje

1. What’s your name, where are you from, and what’s your role at BlueGreen Tanzania Safaris?

My name is Mathanje Meulemans. I’m from the Netherlands and have been involved with BlueGreen Tanzania Safaris since its inception.

In the early years, my husband Robbin and I were personally responsible for all aspects of the organization — from advising clients on their safari trips to managing the administrative processes. The idea to embark on this adventure came to life in June 2015, when we traveled to Tanzania together for the first time. It had always been my dream to visit this beautiful country because I had read that Tanzania is the most stunning safari destination in the world. During that first trip, we immediately fell in love with the country, the nature, and the culture. The idea of starting a safari company was born — and BlueGreen Tanzania Safaris came to life.

Over the years, I’ve shifted my focus more toward the financial side of the company and now concentrate on developing and implementing innovations and improvements. I’m also responsible for organizing tailor-made safaris for larger groups, such as corporate events.

In recent years, we’ve opened our own lodges, allowing us to offer guests a truly unique experience. We continue to strive for the highest standards of service and quality, so every guest has an unforgettable safari — all at an attractive price.

I currently live half the year in Tanzania and half in the Netherlands with my family. We have three children: Teddy (8), Coco (5), and Dre (5 months). Living between two worlds is a special experience that gives us the chance to embrace both Tanzanian culture and Dutch life.

2. What’s your favorite destination in Tanzania and why?

Actually, each national park in Tanzania has its own unique characteristics and is definitely worth visiting. But if you don’t have much safari experience yet, I’d personally recommend Ndutu — especially when the migration is there. What makes this area so special is the ability to drive off-road, which gives you the freedom to explore different landscapes, from open plains to lakes. It’s also an ideal location to experience spectacular sunsets.

For those who already have more safari experience or are looking for something different, I highly recommend Mkomazi. This park offers a fantastic combination of adventure and conservation, with the unique opportunity to visit the Mkomazi Rhino Sanctuary. This protected area plays a crucial role in black rhino conservation and is one of the few places where you can see these majestic animals in the wild. Mkomazi is also known for its population of African wild dogs, making it perfect for wildlife enthusiasts seeking rare species.

Although the lodges in Mkomazi are a bit simpler, the combination of conservation and the chance to see these iconic animals makes it a truly special place. The park is quiet and less crowded — ideal for those seeking a more intimate safari experience.