Some journeys test your limits before they reward you. After hours on the road, we finally cross the border from Kenya into Tanzania—and just like that, everything changes. The dry, golden plains give way to a landscape bursting with life: rolling green hills, thick vegetation, a kind of wild beauty that feels almost surreal. By the time we reach Karatu Safari Camp Lodge, it’s deep into the night—we’re exhausted, dusty, and completely knackered. This is country number 55 for me, and Tanzania doesn’t wait. It meets you head-on -we barely have time to lay our heads down before it’s time to rise and shine again!

Our little adventure convoy—now two trusty Paletours jeeps led by the ever-smiling Obama and his amazing crew, Samuel and Simon—carries us, 12 excited travelers, deeper into the heart of this vibrant land. Our destination? The legendary Ngorongoro Crater.

And yes, it’s every bit as magical as you can imagine.

Formed nearly three million years ago when a massive volcano collapsed, Ngorongoro is now one of the most wildlife-packed places on Earth—a true Eden, where every turn delivers another “wow” moment.

Our descent into the Ngorongoro Crater feels like slipping into a lost world. As the jeeps wind down the steep, mist-shrouded road, the sheer scale of the crater unfolds around us—a vast, sunken paradise stretching as far as the eye can see.

Down on the crater floor, life pulses in every direction. Zebra herds zigzag across golden plains, their stripes rippling like a moving painting. Wildebeest and gazelle graze in lumbering groups, while warthogs scuttle about, tails comically sticking straight up like little flags. Towering above it all, elephants meander with slow, deliberate steps.

Grey crowned cranes (Uganda’s national bird) dance and call to one another with trilling cries, and brightly colored rollers zip overhead—birds of every hue and melody filling the crater with life.

Our guides expertly navigate the rough tracks, leading us to hidden pockets where nature’s dramas play out. Lions lounge lazily under the scorching sun, their golden coats blending seamlessly with the landscape. Two cubs tumble and paw at each other, practicing the hunts they will one day master.

Further along, a hyena slinks across our path, eyes sharp and mischievous.

Just when I think it can’t get better—there it is—the elusive black rhino. Safari jackpot, officially unlocked!

As midday approaches, we pull up to a designated picnic site—a slightly raised, open space overlooking a serene hippo pool. We feast on packed lunches, keeping a wary eye on a rhino in the distance while curious birds loiter nearby, ever hopeful for a dropped crumb.

Laughter fills the air as we swap stories and sightings with fellow travellers, marveling at how every hour inside the crater feels like stepping into a different world. Rhinos on one side, and hippos grunting from the waters beyond—it’s sensory overload in the best possible way.

By late afternoon, as the sun dips low and shadows lengthen, it’s time to ascend back up the crater walls, taking one last, lingering look at the magic below.

Our convoy rolls onward to Arusha about 170 kms away, where The Charity Hotel awaits—a cozy hideaway tucked in a quiet corner of the bustling city. Warm welcomes, comfy rooms, and a peaceful evening under the African stars are exactly what we need to recharge.

Morning in Arusha reveals a vibrant, bustling city buzzing with energy, colorful markets, and the majestic Mount Meru standing guard in the distance.

Before I move on, let’s take a moment to celebrate Tanzania itself—not just for its breathtaking beauty but for its spirit. A special shoutout to President Samia Suluhu Hassan, the nation’s first woman president. Tanzania isn’t just stunning—it’s bold, forward-looking, and full of pride.

But every great adventure comes with a bittersweet goodbye. With Ngorongoro’s wonder etched in our memories, Karatu’s charm lingering in our hearts, and Arusha’s rhythm in our steps, it’s time to say asante sana to Tanzania.

Crossing back into Kenya, the familiar landscapes welcome us like old friends. After countless “oohs” and “aahs” at the passing wildlife and scenery, we find ourselves back at our Kenyan stop: Crosswinds Hotel—a peaceful retreat where we can finally sit back, breathe deeply, and relive every wild, wonderful moment. We have an early morning departure, and it’s time for the next chapter. Part 3 of this incredible African odyssey is just beginning—and Uganda promises new stories, breathtaking adventures, and (hopefully!) that elusive perfect magnet.

Stay tuned—because this journey is only getting better!

Adventure is better when shared! Watch this space for details on my next group trip—limited spots, unlimited memories. Are you in? Get in touch via email.