On Safari in Tanzania
Some invitations change the way you see the world. When Michael’s aunt and uncle asked us to join them on a safari through Tanzania, we had no idea just how profound that invitation would be. What began as a family trip quickly became something bigger — a journey through untamed landscapes, quiet moments of wonder, and the kind of beauty that humbles you into stillness.
Arusha
Our adventure began in Arusha, a lush, green city framed by coffee plantations and the towering presence of Mount Meru. We stayed at Gran Meliá Arusha, where the scent of roasted coffee drifted through the air and the sound of a nearby river echoed softly in the background. It was the perfect place to shake off jet lag and ease into the rhythm of Tanzania.
From there, we made our way to Tarangire National Park, a land of ancient baobab trees and slow-moving giants. I couldn’t help but squeal at the first glimpse of zebras grazing along the road, elephants drifting through the brush, and the quiet pulse of life stretching endlessly across the plains.
Our guide, Malisa, met us with the brightest smile every morning — equal parts calm, kind, and endlessly knowledgeable. He wasn’t just a guide; he was a storyteller and teacher, pointing out everything from the smallest bird calls to the subtle signs of a cheetah nearby.
When Steve and I pulled out our brand-new cameras, Malisa became our photography coach, teaching us how to track animals, adjust focus, and capture the light. Thanks to him, every photo now holds a memory behind it.
Tarangire National Park
Ormatai Rock Safari Camp became our home base in Tarangire National Park, bringing us our first real taste of glamping. Tucked among massive granite kopjes and overlooking the sweeping savannah, this hidden sanctuary sits high on a rocky ridge, perfectly positioned for panoramic views in every direction.
That first night, as the sun dipped low and washed the plains in fiery orange light, it truly sank in — we were here, in the wild heart of Africa. A quiet reminder that true luxury often lies in space, stillness, and connection.
Each game drive revealed something new — zebras drinking from the riverbeds, elephants walking majestically, mongooses peeking in and out of termite mounds, and giraffes stretching tall toward the sky. Every day felt like its own story, unfolding beneath the endless African horizon.
Mto Wa Mbu Village
We checked out of Ormatai Rock and visited the Mto Wa Mbu Village, a lively, colorful community where over 120 Tanzanian tribes live side by side. Our local guides brought us through markets, rice paddies, and banana farms, meeting artisans and learning how crops are cultivated. Before we left, we sampled the local banana beer — a small taste of local tradition and community spirit.
Ngorongoro Crater
From there, we continued on to the Ngorongoro Crater, where the landscape and wildlife shifted again. The crater’s vast, dramatic rim promised new adventures and breathtaking views — a reminder that every corner of Tanzania offers its own wonder. We checked into the stunning Ngorongoro Lodge – Meliá Collection. Waking up to that view — mist rolling over the rim, the crater floor coming alive with movement — felt like stepping into another world.
Descending 2,000 feet into the Ngorongoro Crater, we found ourselves surrounded by one of the densest concentrations of wildlife on Earth. Lions strolled near the safari vehicles, zebras wandered gracefully across the plains, and hippos and flamingos filled the waterholes. It’s hard to describe that feeling — completely still, yet enveloped by life in every direction.
One of my favorite memories from the trip was sitting down each evening to play Rummikub with Aunt Nancy, Uncle Steve and Michael. After long days of wildlife and adventure, those moments felt cozy and grounding, full of friendly competition and a quiet sense of togetherness.
Central Serengeti
The Serengeti was next, and it was everything we’d dreamed of and more. We spent a few nights at Togoro Plains Camp, where elegant tents sat among boulders overlooking the golden plains. Each evening, we’d sit around the fire with a cocktail, listening to the distant roar of lions and the soft hum of cicadas.
There’s something about being surrounded by wildlife that makes you feel so small — in the best possible way. Out there, you’re just another quiet observer in their world.
From shy cheetahs to lazy lions and the ever-elusive leopard, there’s something magnetic about Africa’s great predators. You can’t help but hold your breath when you spot one — powerful, graceful, and completely unbothered by your presence.
And yet, the beauty of the savannah comes hand in hand with its rawness: we saw wildebeest caught in the jaws of predators, upside down in trees, struggling in the river, a reminder that life here is wild, messy, and utterly real.
Northern Serengeti
From there, we moved north to Mara River Post, perched above the river where wildebeest and zebra make their dramatic crossings. Watching the Great Migration unfold—thousands of animals thundering across the plains and plunging into the river—was the kind of sight that gives you chills.
We met some fellow travelers at Mara River Post who had been waiting for the crossing for days, even weeks, and never got to see it. It reminded me how much of this experience is out of our control—timing, weather, animal instincts. Being there at the right moment felt incredibly lucky, almost like nature had chosen to share it with us. The anticipation, the sudden surge of movement, the chaos and determination of thousands of animals—it was raw, unforgettable, and humbling.
Beyond the beauty of the landscapes and the thrill of the wildlife, it was the people who made this journey unforgettable. Traveling with Michael’s family for the first time was pure joy—and just the beginning of many adventures to come. Our guide, Malisa, and every lodge staff member welcomed us with such genuine warmth that even across the world, it felt like home. Tanzania will stay with me always, not just for what we saw, but for how it made us feel.
Where we stayed
Gran Meliá Arusha — A peaceful retreat surrounded by coffee plantations, offering serene views of Mount Meru.
Ormatai Rock Safari Camp — Nestled among Tarangire’s ancient kopjes, with sweeping savannah views and golden sunsets.
Ngorongoro Lodge – Meliá Collection — Perched on the crater’s edge, where misty mornings unfolded into unforgettable safaris. Luxurious, warm, and effortlessly comfortable.
Togoro Plains Camp — Stylish and serene, perfectly blending bohemian design with wild beauty. The kindest staff made it feel like home.
Mara River Post — The ultimate front-row seat for wildebeest crossings and elephants at play.
Our Itinerary
We traveled to Tanzania in early-to-mid August. We were so fortunate that Michael’s aunt handled all of the planning for us — everything from accommodations to safari logistics. Here’s a rundown of how we spent our time:
Arusha — Gran Meliá Arusha → 2 nights
Tarangire National Park — Ormatai Rock Safari Camp → 2 nights
Ngorongoro Crater — Ngorongoro Lodge, Meliá Collection → 2 nights
Central Serengeti — Togoro Plains Camp → 2 nights
Northern Serengeti — Mara River Post: → 3 nights
Arusha/Kilimanjaro area → 1 night
Trip highlights
Traveling with family — Our first time traveling with Michael’s aunt and uncle!
Learning photography in the wild with our guide, Malisa.
Spotting all Big Five and witnessing the Great Migration several times.
Visiting the vibrant Mto wa Mbu Village, where 120 tribes live side by side.
Sunrises and sunsets that felt almost spiritual