A Journey Back to the Roots

Tanzania – a country known for its breathtaking nature, rich wildlife, and endless horizons. But this journey was more than just an exploration of the wilderness – it was a return to the roots, to what truly matters. Amidst the endless savannas, beneath the vast African sky, I felt a deep connection to the earth, the animals, and myself. A safari here is not just an adventure; it’s an encounter with the untamed beauty of life.

I was lucky enough to experience a route that covers some of the world’s most spectacular national parks: from Arusha to Lake Manyara, then to the legendary Serengeti, the impressive Ngorongoro Crater, and finally the Tarangire National Park. This journey not only brought unforgettable encounters with wild animals but also instilled a profound reverence for nature in me.

Mount Meru

The Beginning of the Adventure – Arusha

Arusha is the gateway to Tanzania’s famous national parks, making it the perfect starting point for a safari. The town lies beautifully at the foot of Mount Meru and is a vibrant mix of colorful markets, cozy cafés, and safari companies. This is where my adventure began. With a sturdy 4x4 vehicle, a camera, and much anticipation, I set off into the wilderness.

Lake Manyara National Park

Lake Manyara – Between Flamingos and Tree-Climbing Lions

My first stop was Lake Manyara National Park. As soon as I entered the reserve, I was struck by the diversity of landscapes. Lush forests, open savannas, and finally the great soda lake, where countless flamingos stood by the shore – a pink sea in the distance. But it wasn’t just the birds that made this place magical. There’s also a unique lion species here that climbs trees, a rare sight that left me in awe. Elephants majestically roamed the forest while baboons sunbathed carefree by the roadside. The soundtrack of bird songs and the occasional roar of a lion made this place the perfect introduction to my safari.

Serengeti – Wildebeest Great Migration

Serengeti – The Endless Land of Wild Animals

After Lake Manyara, my journey took me to the famous Serengeti. The name means “endless plains” in the Maasai language, and that’s exactly how it felt. The infinite expanse, golden grasslands dotted with acacia trees, was like a painting coming to life. I spent tree days here – and they were two tree full of unforgettable encounters.

On the very first morning, I saw a group of lions lazily resting in the grass. In the distance, a herd of wildebeests and zebras moved across the plains, a small preview of the famous Great Migration, when millions of animals move through the Serengeti. One of the most moving moments was the sunset: the entire landscape was bathed in a warm, golden light as a family of elephants leisurely crossed the path – an image I’ll never forget.

Ngorongoro Crater

Ngorongoro Crater – The Lost World

From the Serengeti, I continued to the Ngorongoro Crater, one of the most fascinating places in the world. The crater is the remnant of a once mighty volcano and now hosts an incredible variety of wildlife. As I stood at the crater rim early in the morning and gazed over the vast caldera, I felt like I was in another world.

Down in the crater, I watched black rhinos – a rare species that still lives here under protection. Hippos lay lazily in a small lake while zebras and antelopes grazed in the distance. The density of wildlife here is unique, and one almost feels like they are in a massive natural zoo – but everything here is real, and the animals live in absolute freedom.

Tarangire – The Land of Elephants and Baobabs

My last stop was the Tarangire National Park, often overlooked but a true gem. Here, massive elephant herds roam the savanna, accompanied by giraffes, zebras, and antelopes. Particularly impressive were the mighty baobab trees, which stood like ancient guardians over the landscape.

Back to Arusha – An Adventure Full of Memories

After all these experiences, I returned to Arusha, my heart filled with images and memories that will last a lifetime. A safari in Tanzania is more than just a journey – it’s an encounter with nature in its purest form. Anyone who has been here will understand why these places must be protected and preserved.

My Tips for an Unforgettable Safari:

• Best time to visit: June – October for wildlife viewing, January – March for the calving season in the Serengeti.

• Gear A good camera with a zoom lens (min. 200mm), binoculars, and light, light-colored clothing.

• Sustainability: Support local guides and sustainable safari providers to promote conservation. Book locally:Never book safaris through hotels; always book directly with local providers – it saves money and supports the community.

• Shop with locals: Buy souvenirs and food only with a guide or a local, as prices for tourists are often inflated.

• Don’t forget the tips: Guides, drivers, and hotel staff often rely on tips – plan this into your budget.

• Malaria vaccination and prophylaxis: Be sure to get informed before your trip and bring the necessary medications.

• Cash in US dollars: Many places only accept dollars or charge high fees for card payments.

• Comfortable clothing: Since you’ll spend many hours in the vehicle, loose, breathable clothes are a must.

• Tissues and wet wipes: Essential for bush toilets or dusty rides.

• Medications: Bring headache tablets, diarrhea medicine, and disinfectant – the water can be contaminated and quickly cause stomach issues.

Have you ever been on safari? Share your experiences with me in the comments!