Travels through Tanzania

My journey began with a series of flights, starting from Cape Town, passing through Johannesburg, and making a stopover in Nairobi before reaching Kilimanjaro Airport. Along the way, I reconnected with colleagues and friends, sharing moments of excitement before the trip truly began. Arriving in Nairobi, I spent some time exploring the vibrant city, even managing a visit to the Best Western Meridian Hotel. With its rooftop pool and panoramic views, it promised to be an ideal spot for travellers heading out on safari.

Finally, the last leg of the journey brought me to Kilimanjaro Airport, where I was greeted by a familiar face – my guide from a previous Kilimanjaro trek. We were ready to embark on an adventure through some of Tanzania's most iconic landscapes.

Arusha and the First Safari Experience

Our group gathered at the charming Meru View Lodge, a peaceful retreat nestled at the base of Mount Meru. Among the group were fellow travellers from Germany and South Africa, each as eager as I was to begin our journey. After purchasing a local SIM card to stay connected, we set off on our first safari.

Our first stop was Mount Meru Game Lodge & Sanctuary, a hidden gem located in Usa Village, just outside Arusha. Once an animal sanctuary, it’s now a tranquil game lodge where rescued wildlife roams free. The peaceful surroundings offered the perfect start to our adventure, and we were soon immersed in Tanzania’s natural beauty.

Tarangire National Park: Land of the Elephants

The excitement truly kicked in as we reached Tarangire National Park, a vast landscape famous for its towering baobab trees and herds of elephants. The park unfolded like a scene from a nature documentary, with wildlife appearing at every turn. Elephants, in particular, stole the show, roaming in large groups across the plains. Spending the night in a mobile camp within the park added a touch of magic to the experience – sleeping under the African stars, surrounded by the sounds of the wild.

Lake Manyara National Park: Flamingos and Tree-Climbing Lions

Next, we ventured to Lake Manyara National Park, a place famed for its tree-climbing lions. While these elusive predators remained hidden, the park offered other wonders: vast flocks of flamingos painted the horizon in pink, while pelicans glided gracefully across the water. The landscape was lush, and the wildlife abundant, making every moment special. Our stay at a rustic adventure camp added an authentic touch to the safari, giving us a true taste of life in the African bush.

Lake Natron: Flamingos and a Walk with the Maasai

Leaving the greenery behind, we journeyed to the remote and arid region of Lake Natron. This stark yet striking landscape is known for its flamingo populations and its significance to the local Maasai people. Walking along the lakeshore with a Maasai guide, we learned about the delicate ecosystem and the cultural importance of the area. The day was capped by an awe-inspiring sight: the Great Migration, one of nature’s most dramatic spectacles, unfolding before our eyes. Thousands of wildebeest moved in unison, a sight that left us speechless and in awe of nature’s power.

Serengeti National Park: The Heart of the Safari

No journey through Tanzania would be complete without visiting the legendary Serengeti National Park. This vast, iconic landscape delivered everything I had dreamed of. Lion prides lounged lazily in the grass, cheetah cubs played under the watchful eye of their mother, and a leopard napped in the branches of a towering acacia tree. The sheer abundance of wildlife was astounding.

We spent our nights in luxurious tented camps like Kati Kati and Kubu Kubu, blending the comforts of a hotel with the thrill of being surrounded by the untamed wilderness. The experience was nothing short of magical – falling asleep to the sounds of the African night, knowing that lions, elephants, and giraffes roamed just beyond our camp.

Ngorongoro Crater: A Natural Wonder

The final chapter of our safari took us to the breathtaking Ngorongoro Crater. This massive volcanic caldera, teeming with wildlife, is one of the most extraordinary places on earth. As we descended into the crater, it felt like entering another world, where every turn revealed a new wonder. Giraffes and zebras grazed peacefully, and the crater’s unique ecosystem provided a perfect backdrop for our last wildlife encounters.

That evening, we stayed at the Old Farmhouse Lodge, a charming retreat where we learned about Tanzania’s coffee production and enjoyed one final evening together, reflecting on the adventure we had shared.

Reflections on Tanzania: A Journey to Remember

As the journey came to an end, I found myself looking back on the incredible experiences I had in Tanzania. From the lush landscapes of Tarangire to the vast plains of the Serengeti, from the flamingo-filled shores of Lake Natron to the awe-inspiring Ngorongoro Crater, this adventure had been nothing short of life-changing.

Tanzania’s natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and extraordinary wildlife left an indelible mark on my soul. This was more than just a safari – it was a journey of discovery, filled with moments of wonder, awe, and connection to both nature and the people who call this incredible country home.



For anyone seeking a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, Tanzania should be at the top of your list. From the Great Migration to the towering baobabs, from Maasai culture to unforgettable wildlife encounters, it’s a destination that will captivate your heart and stay with you forever.

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