October 2026

The agreement with the estate agent is signed, the photos are taken and the brochure is nearly finished. Boscamping Zwanemeer will soon be up for sale.

It’s a big step, and one that has taken plenty of conversations.

How it became a shared plan

At first, the idea was for Johnson to build his life in the Netherlands. But Tanzania is his home, and Renee had always been open to a future there.

We also considered whether Leonie and Jaap would continue running the campsite while Renee and Johnson moved. After a lot of thought, exploring a future in Tanzania became something we wanted to do together.

Why Karatu?

We’re more countryside people than city people. Karatu’s smaller scale appeals to us, and we see it as a place where we could pursue our Tanzania dream while building a good everyday life for the children.

The combination of a smaller town and access to the facilities we’re looking for as a family makes it our preferred area. Johnson grew up here too, so there’s already a personal connection.

Three plots and a trip ahead

Johnson has been in Tanzania since June, working as a safari guide, making contacts and viewing plots. He has three favourites to show Jaap and Leonie.

On Tuesday 13 October, Jaap, Leonie and Renske fly out with Jaap’s parents for a mix of work, exploring and family time. Renee and Dora are staying in the Netherlands, with the new baby due in November.

First come conversations in and around Arusha: with a lawyer, TISEZA, Prince from Sanna and the people behind Dolly’s Escape.

From 17 to 25 October, there’s time for safari through Tarangire, Lake Manyara, the Serengeti and Ngorongoro. Then we’ll spend time in Karatu, viewing plots and exploring everyday life. Plans include visiting FAME hospital and Black Rhino Academy, and we hope to speak with the district council.

There are more conversations planned with people working in tourism, including an online meeting with Selma from Makasa Safaris and Kimbilio Serengeti Camp. After a final stay in Arusha, the trip ends with a flight home on 4 November.

What’s decided so far?

We’re preparing the campsite for sale and exploring the possibility of a lodge in the Karatu area. We haven’t chosen a plot or committed to a lodge project.

Meanwhile, we’re continuing our work at Boscamping Zwanemeer and preparing for the 2027 season. We still enjoy running the campsite, and the timing of any next step remains open.

There’s plenty to ask, see and work out. We’ll share what we learn along the way.