By: Arlene Sealy & Brenda Tackett, Marvelous Mouse Travels agents
Is an African Safari on your bucket list of destinations to visit? If not, it should be added and we’ll tell you why with an overview of a recent experience. Our travels took us to Tanzania with National Geographic Expeditions. The Nat Geo expeditions are made with the traveler in mind. Several of the unique components of these adventures are the lectures about local culture, people, and customs. Additionally, each expedition has a designated expedition leader, an expedition expert, and local guides
This service begins the minute you make your initial booking. You are connected with a specialist from Nat Geo. The specialist provides the necessary information needed to plan your journey. The specifics of needed documentation (visas, passports, etc.) as well as a detailed itinerary. This contact person will also give you the aspects of your travels and answer any questions.
Upon arrival to Tanzania, you are greeted by a local host at the airport. The shuttles were there and we went to our resort. It is recommended that you arrive a day early to acclimate to the time change. Booking an extra night before or after your expedition is an option. Throughout your stay, even during early arrival, an expedition leader is there to assist you. They will provide you with local tours or provide any assistance needed.
The first day of our travels began with a brief overview of where we would be traveling. Plus, the safari guides were introduced and tips were shared on how to make the most of their expertise. The journey began and we learned lots about the area.
During the drives the guides pointed out topics of interest and always answered any questions. We spent 9 days in Africa. Throughout this journey we visited Lake Manyara National Park, Ngorongoro Crater, Olduvai Gorge, and Serengeti National Park.
Each day was scheduled with 2 game drives and other cultural activities and topics sprinkled within. We saw the amazing African landscape as well as the people and wildlife. We were the visitors and the animals were in their natural habitat.
It was very stunning and life changing. We saw African wildlife at sunrise, midday and sunset. Every day was a new experience. Seeing a hyena nurse her babies as well as lions nursing their cubs.
The babies were there in abundance and to see them within the family unit was spectacular.
This is a journey that is recommended for everyone. If you’ve ever questioned experiencing a safari, we would say do it. Reach out to a Marvelous Mouse Travels agent to arrange this experience. A National Geographic Expedition to Tanzania is the perfect way to be immersed in all that is Africa. Hakuna Matata.
