Wild Frontiers' April recently returned from an epic trip to Tanzania and here fills us in on the highlights, from her favourite meal to her top advice for visitors.
Favorite dish
While in Arusha, I stumbled across Slow Food Africa, an international organization working to preserve food cultures and traditions. I happen to be a member of Slow Food Tahoe, so I was particularly excited to dine here. More than the delicious Mukimo (a pumpkin leaf and vegetable casserole), the conversation with the local woman running this branch of Slow Food was what I found to be so special. Learning about a culture through food is quite possibly one of my favorite ways to travel.
Favorite moment
Witnessing the start of the great migration! We approximated that we saw over 500,000 wildebeests run past our safari jeep within the 15 minutes we were sitting there. Being able to experience this powerful natural phenomenon was a memory I’ll always cherish.
Best view
On the drive to Ngorogoro crater, we passed rolling hills covered with bright yellow wildflowers and black and white zebra.
Tips for Travelers
Bring a camera with a super zoom, I promise, it’s worth the extra weight in your limited luggage. While a lot of the time you’ll be up close and personal with the wildlife, every once in a while you’ll need zoom to catch a good view of an animal.
Best nights accommodation
The Serengeti Acacia Camp – Central Camp. As the name suggests, this camp is located in the central part of the Serengeti, also known as Seronera. The tents were well appointed with hot water showers and comfy beds. The location though is what set it apart. A perfect place for a base to see the migration, we could hear the wildebeest running and the lions roaring – preparing for their dinner!
Best souvenir
A brass ring made by a local artisan.
Any regrets
Not having my family there with me. I could only imagine how ecstatic my kids would have been to have been face to face with lions and hippos. I guess I’ll just have to go back and take them with me next time!
