Traveling through Tanzania was an amazing adventure from start to finish. We began in Arusha and made our way down to Lake Manyara, and right from the start, the elephants were incredible—so massive and graceful. That’s when we got our first glimpses of the baboons, and along the road we saw people selling bananas, which made everything feel so alive and real.

Driving in our jeep was such a gift, having the same guide every day so we didn’t miss a thing. We were able to absorb every bit from the wildlife to the stories of the land.

As we moved on through the Ngorongoro Crater and the Serengeti, the sights just kept unfolding. We saw more than just the big five—lions, elephants, leopards, buffalo, and rhinos—but all the other wild beasts too, in every shape and size, moving freely across the plains.

And the babies! Oh, the babies! Elephant and giraffe calves, zebra foals, and lion cubs. While we didn’t witness a birth directly, it was clear which mothers had recently given birth. Watching them tend to their newborns, the little families huddled close, surrounded by their protective groups, was beyond anything I expected.

It felt like being invited into a private world where life was beginning and continuing all at once — a circle of life playing out in front of us. Being in lion territory, and seeing them up close, was absolutely stirring. Growing up, I never imagined I would experience a safari like this. It surpassed all my imagined expectations.

The people we met along the way were so kind and thoughtful. At night, our camps were safe and secure, with guards walking outside so we could relax without worry. The food was always beautifully plated, created by talented camp chefs, and while there wasn’t a menu to choose from, every meal was a delight.

The handmade items were genuine and remarkable. You need to bring enough U.S. dollars, because these keepsakes are priceless. I bought several gifts, and people were so touched by the straw purses, which were easy to pack and carry.

We also had the chance to meet the Maasai people, which was unforgettable. Watching how the boys train to become warriors and then take on the responsibility of overseeing the entire village was incredible. They protect and care for not only their families, but the whole community.

Whether farming, tending livestock, or contributing in other ways, the life of the Maasai people is full of purpose, tradition, and a strong sense of connection. Experiencing this firsthand added a deep, human dimension to our adventure.

Every day was a perfect combination of adventure, wildlife, culture, and human kindness. My trek through the wilderness of Africa’s Serengeti was an unforgettable lifetime experience.

 

 

 

 

About the Guest Author

Fay deHaas is a Certified Travel Associate and Master Cruise Counselor and owner of Kreative World Travel LLC DBA Cruise Planners. Her business is located in West Hartford, CT. She arranges travel for clients from across the United States.

Learn more about her business here.

See recent travel photos on her Facebook page.

Fay is included in the curated list of service providers on the SoloAgersConnect.com website.

If you are in Connecticut, you can hear all about Fay’s trip and ask questions at her presentation on May 18, 2026 in Farmington, CT. Find more information HERE.

 

 

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