Kenya and Tanzania safari
The hospitality and welcome we received was second to none from everyone we met, from making the perfect meal to going above and beyond to make sure that we had the best chance of seeing ‘the big five’, to ensuring that our time at each lodge was simply wonderful. Of course, nothing was guaranteed when it comes to the animals, but our game drivers discussed what we would like to see and did their best to ensure we saw them, and we were lucky enough to see all the big five. We experienced sights such as a cheetah chasing antelopes to wildebeest crossing a crocodile infested river, to a new-born elephant calf exploring the Savannah and a gorgeous leopard eyeing potential prey from a tree top canopy. Everywhere we looked was straight from the pages of National Geographic.
Now, some of the locals weren’t quite as friendly such as the grumpy water buffalo or the King of the jungle, the lion; but safety was paramount and our guides ensured that our safety and enjoyment were never anything less than safe and comfortable. This continued at the lodges too where we always felt safe and even though you could hear the wildlife I never felt threatened in any way. When I came home I missed the sounds of the lions calling to each other on an evening. A trip like this was not just about the animals, we wanted to experience the culture too; so we went on a guided tour to a local market which are fantastic places, bursting with energy, local crafts and different foods to taste such as red bananas. We also enjoyed visiting the local tribe village. These opportunities are not to be missed as visiting the Masai people submerges you into their way of life and culture. It was a great honour to sit with the chief drinking coffee whilst watching traditional dances and displays.
We booked a hot air balloon trip over the Masai Mara when we booked the holiday to ensure we got a place. This was an experience not to miss with unparalleled views and a glorious champagne breakfast in the Mara itself.
When we were not on a game drive or an excursion we spent some time relaxing at the lodges. They each had amazing facilities and each was different, from swimming pools to spa treatments, to local displays, musicians and talks. The lodges were also very different and blended in with the surrounding area; for example, at Ngorongoro our lodge was perched on the edge overlooking the crater itself with an awe-inspiring view. Whilst Mbuzi Mawe was a tented colonial affair nestled into rocky outcrops which was so peaceful. This was my favourite as the tent had a four poster bed in and a bathroom, but felt as we had stepped back in time. Sat out on a morning I was joined by a friendly hornbill who seemed to enjoy my company.
Nothing prepares you for the experience of a safari, and although the animals are the stars of the show, you leave with more than memories; you leave with a bit of Africa in your heart.
I would love for you to experience a safari, there is nothing quite like it, it is a true adventure.