Jul 314 min read

Exploring Tanzania: An Unforgettable Adventure

Tanzania is a land of diverse landscapes, rich culture, and incredible wildlife. My recent trip to this beautiful country was nothing short of magical. From bustling Arusha to the serene beaches of Zanzibar, here's a detailed look at my experiences in some of Tanzania's most captivating destinations.

Arusha: The Gateway to Adventure

Arusha, often referred to as the safari capital of Tanzania, was my first stop. Nestled at the foot of Mount Meru, this vibrant city is a hub for travelers heading to the country's famous national parks or for those climbing Mount Kilimanjaro. I spent time driving through the busy markets, sampling local dishes like ugali and nyama choma, and learning about the region's artistic culture at the Arusha Cultural Heritage Center.

One of the highlights was visiting Ngiresi Village. Here, I got a glimpse of the traditional way of life for this tribe. One of the villager families welcomed my travel group with open arms, sharing their customs, crafts, and stories. It was a humbling experience to see how they maintain their cultural heritage while adapting to modern challenges. Visiting the village school and hearing about some of their struggles was sobering – I admire their drive for education despite some of the hardships.

Lake Manyara National Park: A Hidden Gem

Next, I ventured to Lake Manyara National Park, a hidden gem known for its diverse ecosystems and stunning scenery. The park is famous for its tree-climbing lions; unfortunately, I was not able to spot one during our game drives. Despite that miss, the massive lake created a picturesque backdrop for our game drives including cameos with pink flamingos and gazelles stopping by for a quick drink.

This park is also home to large herds of elephants, hippos, and an array of bird species. One of my favorite moments was watching a family of elephants interact and play in a clearing in the forest. Additionally, the combination of dense forests, open plains, and the shimmering lake makes Lake Manyara a photographer's dream.

Ngorongoro Crater: The Natural Wonder

Ngorongoro Crater, often considered the "Eighth Wonder of the World," was our next stop. This massive volcanic caldera is home to some of the densest populations of wildlife in Africa. Descending into the crater felt like entering what I imagine Eden would have been during Biblical times. Each turn around a rocky corner revealed breathtaking scenery and new exposure to wildlife.

The sheer abundance of animals was astounding. Within in a few hours, I was able to see a family of warthogs running with their hair blowing in the wind, a group of lions feasting on a poor zebra, and hippos lounging in a pool of water. One particularly memorable experience was watching a field full of zebras peacefully grazing against the backdrop of the crater walls. A few of the zebras were in more of a playful mood and I got to record them rolling around in the grass. The Ngorongoro Crater also hosts a large variety of birdlife, including the strikingly beautiful crowned crane.

Serengeti National Park: The Ultimate Safari Experience

No trip to Tanzania would be complete without visiting the Serengeti National Park. Famous for the Great Migration, where millions of wildebeest and zebra traverse the plains in search of fresh grazing, the Serengeti is the epitome of African safari. My travel time coincided with the beginning of migration season, so I was able to see some of this phenomenal wildlife experience.

In addition to the Great Migration, I saw prides of lions relaxing under trees, giraffes munching tree leaves, and herds of elephants marching across the savannah. The unique experiences in the Serengeti are what I will always remember. Imagine seeing a lion rip into a water buffalo it just took down, or two lions rest after they just finished mating, or hippos snap at each other fighting for the best position in a shallow pool of water. Visiting Serengeti reminds you that these animals are HOME, and we are just witnessing a tenth of their awesomeness.

The Serengeti's vast, open landscapes and endless skies also create a sense of freedom that is hard to match. Each sunrise and sunset painted the horizon with colors that seemed almost unreal. One morning, I got to meet the sun in the sky as it made its appearance in a hot air balloon, which is an experience that I will never forget.

Zanzibar: The Spice Island

After the exhilarating safaris, I headed to Zanzibar to unwind and soak in the island's rich culture and stunning beaches. Zanzibar, often called the Spice Island, is a blend of African, Arab, and European influences. I spent one day exploring Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, with its narrow alleys, lively marketplaces, and historic buildings.

The view from my balcony. Photo Credit: Ronda McKnight

Instead of joining one of the island's spice tours which are a common highlight, I opted for the pristine beaches of Nungwi which provided the perfect setting for relaxation, with crystal-clear waters and powdery white sands. This was the perfect winddown to end an exhilarating trip. The local seafood, which was freshly caught and grilled on the beach was the best!

A New Country in My Heart

Tanzania is a country that captivates the soul. From the wildlife-rich savannahs to the cultural heart of its villages and the idyllic beaches of Zanzibar, every moment was filled with discovery and awe. If you're looking for a destination that offers both adventure and tranquility, Tanzania should be at the top of your list.