Traveller's Tales: Ruth's Tanzanian Treasures

As I sit here, still buzzing from my recent expedition to Tanzania, I can't help but marvel at how this incredible country continues to surprise and delight me. This marks my fourth visit in 20 years, and let me tell you, it just keeps getting better!

From the moment I set foot on Tanzanian soil, I was swept up in the magic of the wild. This time, I focused on exploring the iconic 'Northern Circuit,' and oh, what a treat it was! The open plains of the Serengeti stretched endlessly before me, teeming with life. The Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the world's largest caldera, left me in awe of nature's grand design. And let's not forget the thrilling game drives along the riverbanks in Tarangire National Park – each day brought new wonders!

Now, I know what you're thinking – "Ruth, isn't Tanzania just about the great wildebeest migration?" While that spectacle is undoubtedly magnificent, trust me when I say there's so much more! The sheer variety of species and landscapes make Tanzania a must-visit for both first-timers and safari enthusiasts like myself.

Speaking of must-visits, I simply have to rave about my new favourite lodge: Togoro Plains in Central Serengeti. Perched atop a natural kopje, this camp offers unparalleled views of the Serengeti. Imagine waking up to herds of zebra, buffalo, and wildebeest right outside your safari suite! The staff's warmth and hospitality elevated the experience to new heights. Whether you're there during migration season or not, the year-round game viewing is simply spectacular.

While game drives are always a highlight, my favourite activity this time around was a bit more unique. Picture this: a morning walk from camp, watching majestic elephants in the golden sunlight, culminating in a stunning 'bush breakfast' on the banks of the Grumeti River. Oh, and did I mention the cheeky baboons that crossed the river to say hello? Now that's what I call a good morning!

See Tanzania Family Adventure Safari Trip

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The Magic of Tanzania's Walking Safaris

When most people think of African safaris, they picture themselves in a 4x4 vehicle, binoculars in hand, scanning the horizon for wildlife. But let me tell you about an experience that will truly get your heart racing and your senses tingling: walking safaris in Tanzania.

There's something indescribably thrilling about exploring the African bush on foot. The crunch of grass beneath your boots, the subtle scents carried on the breeze, the heightened awareness of every rustle and call – it's a full sensory immersion that simply can't be replicated from inside a vehicle.

Tanzania, with its diverse landscapes and abundant wildlife, offers some of the best walking safari experiences in Africa. Here's why you should consider adding this adventure to your Tanzania itinerary:

Intimate Wildlife Encounters

While you might not get as close to large predators as you would in a vehicle (which is probably for the best!), walking safaris offer incredibly intimate wildlife experiences. Imagine tracking a herd of elephants by their footprints, or quietly observing a dazzle of zebras or a tower of giraffe from behind a termite mound. These close-to-nature encounters will give you a newfound appreciation for the intricacies of the ecosystem.

Expert Guides

Walking safaris are led by highly trained guides who are experts in bush craft, animal behaviour, and safety protocols. Not only will they keep you safe, but they'll also open your eyes to the smaller wonders of the savanna – from identifying bird calls to explaining the medicinal uses of various plants.

A Different Perspective

Walking through the same landscapes you've been driving through gives you a whole new appreciation for the terrain. You'll notice things you might have missed from a vehicle – the intricate design of a spider's web, the determined march of a dung beetle, or the delicate patterns on a butterfly's wings.

Fitness and Adventure

Let's face it – safaris can involve a lot of sitting. A walking safari is a great way to stretch your legs and get your blood pumping. Don't worry, though – the pace is generally gentle, with frequent stops to observe wildlife and learn about the environment.

Exclusive Experiences

Many of Tanzania's top lodges and camps offer walking safaris as part of their activities. Some even specialize in multi-day walking safaris, where you trek from camp to camp, truly immersing yourself in the wilderness.

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Best Places for Walking Safaris in Tanzania:

Selous Game Reserve (now part of Nyerere National Park): This vast, untamed wilderness is perfect for walking safaris, with diverse habitats and plentiful wildlife.

Ruaha National Park: Known for its rugged beauty and excellent walking trails, Ruaha offers the chance to explore baobab-studded landscapes on foot.

Tarangire National Park: Famous for its elephants, Tarangire also offers fantastic walking opportunities, especially in the private concessions bordering the park.

The Ngorongoro Conservation Area: While you can't walk on the crater floor, the highlands surrounding the crater offer beautiful walking trails with stunning views.

Remember, walking safaris require a reasonable level of fitness and a spirit of adventure. You'll need to follow your guide's instructions carefully and be prepared for early mornings (the best time for wildlife viewing). But the rewards – the sense of achievement, the intimate wildlife encounters, and the deeper connection with nature – are absolutely worth it.

See Walk, Mountain Bike & Drive Northern Tanzania trip

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The Serengeti: Nature's Greatest Show on Earth

When you think of African safaris, chances are the Serengeti is the first place that comes to mind. And for good reason! This vast ecosystem in northern Tanzania is the stuff of legends, immortalised in countless nature documentaries, and home to one of the most spectacular wildlife shows on the planet.

Endless Plains

The name "Serengeti" comes from the Maasai word "Siringet," meaning "endless plains." And when you're standing in the middle of this 30,000 square kilometer (11,600 square mile) expanse, you'll understand why. The horizon stretches as far as the eye can see, dotted with iconic acacia trees and teeming with wildlife. It's a landscape that seems to embody the very essence of wild Africa.

The Great Migration

Of course, we can't talk about the Serengeti without mentioning its most famous spectacle: the Great Migration. This annual movement of over 1.5 million wildebeest, along with hundreds of thousands of zebras and gazelles, is truly one of nature's greatest wonders. The sight of these massive herds moving across the plains, braving predators and treacherous river crossings, is something that stays with you long after you've left Africa.

But here's a secret: while the migration is undoubtedly spectacular, the Serengeti is a year-round destination. Each season brings its own magic, from the lush green landscapes and new-born animals of the wet season to the dramatic predator action of the dry months.

Incredible Biodiversity

The Serengeti ecosystem supports an astounding array of wildlife. It's home to the "Big Five" (lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo), along with cheetahs, hyenas, hippos, giraffes, and over 500 bird species. Whether you're watching a pride of lions lounging on a kopje (rocky outcrop), or marvelling at a tower of giraffes silhouetted against the sunset, each day in the Serengeti brings new and unforgettable sights.

Accommodation for Every Style

One of the things I love about the Serengeti is the range of accommodation options. From luxury lodges perched on hillsides with panoramic views, to intimate tented camps that move with the migration, to adventurous fly camping experiences under the stars – there's something for every taste and budget.

My personal favourite? The mobile tented camps that follow the migration. There's nothing quite like falling asleep to the sounds of the wild, knowing that you're right in the heart of the action.

Beyond the Wildlife

While the animals are undoubtedly the stars of the show, the Serengeti offers so much more. The culture of the Maasai people, who have lived in harmony with this land for centuries, adds a rich human dimension to your safari experience. Many lodges offer cultural visits where you can learn about Maasai traditions and way of life.

And let's not forget about the breathtaking landscapes. From the kopjes that dot the plains to the meandering Mara River, from the vast Ndutu Lake to the beautiful Lobo Valley, the Serengeti is a photographer's dream.

Conservation Challenges

It's important to note that like many wild places, the Serengeti faces conservation challenges. Climate change, human population growth, and infrastructure development all pose threats to this delicate ecosystem. Responsible tourism plays a crucial role in protecting the Serengeti, providing economic incentives for conservation and funding for anti-poaching efforts.

The Ngorongoro Crater

Visiting the Ngorongoro Crater is an experience that truly takes your breath away. This UNESCO World Heritage Site, located in northern Tanzania, is the world's largest intact volcanic caldera, spanning an impressive 260 square kilometres. As you descend the steep crater walls, you enter a natural amphitheatre teeming with wildlife. The crater floor is a microcosm of African ecosystems, featuring grasslands, swamps, forests, and a soda lake. This compact area is home to an astonishing concentration of wildlife, including large herds of zebra and wildebeest, prowling lions, elusive leopards, and even endangered black rhinos. One of the crater's unique features is the opportunity to spot all of the "Big Five" in a single day. The backdrop of the crater's towering walls adds to the drama of each wildlife encounter, creating a sense of being in a lost world. Whether you're watching elephants amble across the plains or observing flamingos wade in the shallow waters of Lake Magadi, the Ngorongoro Crater offers a safari experience unlike any other, combining spectacular scenery with unparalleled wildlife viewing opportunities.

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In awe of the Baobab Trees

As I stood beneath the towering baobab tree in Tarangire National Park, I couldn't help but feel humbled by its sheer magnitude and age. The ancient baobab trees of Tanzania are truly a sight to behold, standing as silent sentinels across the landscape. These gigantic, gnarled giants, often called "upside-down trees" due to their root-like branches, can live for thousands of years, with some specimens estimated to be over 2,500 years old.

Their massive trunks, which can reach up to 11 meters in diameter, serve as natural water reservoirs, allowing them to thrive in arid conditions. Despite their imposing size and age, baobabs have a surprisingly delicate side. Once a year, usually during the rainy season, these ancient trees produce large, white flowers that bloom for just 24 hours. This fleeting display of beauty is a special treat for lucky visitors who happen to be in the right place at the right time.

The flowers open at dusk and are pollinated by bats attracted to their strong, musky odour. Witnessing these venerable giants in bloom is a rare and magical experience, offering a poignant reminder of the cyclical nature of life in the African wilderness. Whether you encounter baobabs in Tarangire National Park, known for its high concentration of these trees, or spot them dotting the landscape elsewhere in Tanzania, these iconic trees never fail to inspire awe and wonder.

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When to Visit

While the Serengeti is amazing year-round, the best time to visit depends on what you want to see. For the migration, June to October is generally best for dramatic river crossings, while December to March is great for seeing the herds on the southern plains. For general game viewing and fewer crowds, consider the "green season" from November to mid-December.

The Serengeti is more than just a national park – it's a living, breathing embodiment of wild Africa. Whether you're witnessing the thundering hooves of the migration, watching a cheetah stalk its prey, or simply soaking in a glorious African sunset, the Serengeti offers experiences that will touch your soul and leave you forever changed. It's not just a destination; it's a reminder of the raw beauty and power of nature, and a place that, once visited, will forever hold a piece of your heart.

A moment that truly captured the essence of this trip? Dancing to Shakira on top of a kopje with the Maasai. It was spontaneous, joyous, and absolutely unforgettable – a treasure I'll always keep close to my heart.

From luxury tented camps in the Serengeti to eco-friendly lodges overlooking the Ngorongoro Crater, this trip reinforced why we at Safari Sanctuaries are so passionate about crafting tailored adventures in Tanzania. It's not just about the wildlife (though that's incredible); it's about the people, the landscapes, and those magical moments that take your breath away.

So, whether you're a first-timer or a seasoned safari-goer, I can't recommend Tanzania enough. Trust me, it's a destination that will capture your heart and leave you planning your return before you've even left!

Until next time, happy travels!

Ruth