Embarking on a safari tour to the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater is an adventure that promises both the ruggedness of the wild and the breathtaking beauty of Africa’s natural landscapes. My recent safari experience was a testament to this, filled with moments of awe, discomfort, and sheer wonder.

The Journey Begins

The journey from Arusha to the Serengeti took approximately eight hours, but the time passed quickly as we encountered wildlife along the way. Spotting giraffes up close and seeing other animals was an exhilarating start to our adventure. The main vehicles used for the safari were Toyota Land Cruisers, robust and well-suited for the rugged terrain. It was surprising to see so many of them, as I had never seen such a large number in Japan.

Serengeti: The First Two Days

Traveling at the end of June, the Serengeti looked particularly dry, with dust thick in the air. Despite this, it was a small price to pay for the grandeur of the sights we were privileged to witness. Staying in a tent brought me closer to nature than ever before. The nights were chilly, and the cold showers for the first two nights were a stark reminder of the untamed environment we were in. Each evening, as the temperature dropped, I bundled up in my sleeping bag, listening to the symphony of the African night. The sounds of wildlife were all around, with the most prominent being the persistent snorting of my tent mate, a peculiar yet strangely comforting background noise.

Each day brought new adventures and encounters with the Big Five—lion, leopard, elephant, and buffalo. These majestic creatures roamed the land, seemingly indifferent to our presence, their sheer size and power leaving us in silent reverence.

Witnessing the Big Five in Serengeti

The highlight of the safari was undoubtedly the sighting of all Big Five animals.

• Lions: We spotted several prides lounging in the grass, their golden coats blending seamlessly with the landscape. Their regal demeanor was both awe-inspiring and humbling.
• Leopards: Elusive and graceful, the leopards we saw were often perched in trees, their keen eyes observing us from a distance. At one point, we saw a leopard researcher car, which indicated a nearby leopard. It was fascinating to see how experts tracked these elusive animals.
• Elephants: These gentle giants roamed in herds, their sheer size and presence a reminder of the ancient and enduring life in the Serengeti.
• Buffaloes: Massive and formidable, the buffaloes moved in large groups, their horns a distinctive feature against the savannah backdrop.

Burning of Grasses in Serengeti

To maintain the delicate ecological balance in the Serengeti, it is common practice to burn grasses. This controlled burning helps rejuvenate the land and promotes new growth, essential for sustaining the diverse wildlife. As a result, you will notice black patches of land, a testament to the ongoing efforts to preserve the ecosystem.

Ngorongoro: The Lush Crater

After two days in the Serengeti, the journey continued to the Ngorongoro Crater, a unique ecosystem with a dense concentration of wildlife. The crater’s lush green floor was a stark contrast to the dry plains of the Serengeti. With its green fields and ponds, Ngorongoro looked more abundant and vibrant. Here, we witnessed the harmony of predator and prey, a delicate balance maintained in this natural enclosure. It was in Ngorongoro where we had the thrilling discovery of rhinoceroses. These rare creatures, with their thick hides and solitary nature, stood in stark contrast to the more social animals.

The African Massage

One aspect of the safari that I had been forewarned about was the so-called “African massage”—the bumpy, jolting rides over rough terrain. Surprisingly, it wasn’t as bad as I had expected. While the roads were indeed rugged and the ride was far from smooth, it added to the authenticity of the adventure. However, we did encounter a few cars broken down on the streets, a reminder of the challenges posed by the rough conditions.

Culinary Delights on Safari

One delightful aspect of our safari was the culinary experience. A chef accompanied us, providing alternate meal options three times a day. The camp kitchen was a bustling hub, filled with many chefs preparing meals for various groups. It was fascinating to see the level of care and creativity that went into our meals, adding a touch of comfort to our wild adventure. Interestingly, many people in Arusha, including chefs, obtain college degrees to compete in the job market, which speaks volumes about their dedication and skill.

Challenges for Locals

While locals can pay less in entrance fees to these parks, visiting them remains a challenge. The transport cost alone is around $300, and a normal sedan cannot traverse the rough terrain, making it difficult for many locals to experience these natural wonders.

What to Bring on a Safari

To fully enjoy and capture the beauty of a safari, it’s essential to come prepared. Here are some key items to pack:

• Two Cameras: Ideally, bring two cameras—one with a good zoom lens for capturing distant wildlife and another for wide-angle shots of the stunning landscapes. I missed many great shots because I only had one camera.
• Binoculars: A good pair of binoculars will help you spot animals that are far off. Often, we wondered how our guide managed to spot camouflaged animals hidden in the landscape. His high-quality binoculars were invaluable in these moments.
• Clothing: Light, breathable clothing for the day and warmer layers for the chilly nights. Neutral colors are best to blend in with the surroundings.
• Sun Protection: Hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are crucial for protecting yourself from the intense African sun.
• Insect Repellent: Essential for keeping mosquitoes and other insects at bay.
• Personal Toiletries: Including quick-dry towels and travel-sized hygiene products.
• Comfortable Footwear: Sneakers for walking around a tent site and a pair of sandals during games.

Missing the Mass Migration

One of the few regrets of my trip was missing the mass migration due to the timing of my visit. The Great Migration is one of nature’s most spectacular events, involving millions of wildebeest, zebras, and other animals moving across the plains in search of greener pastures. If witnessing this natural phenomenon is on your bucket list, be sure to plan your trip during the migration season, typically from July to October.

Reflections on the Experience

Reflecting on my safari adventure, it was a blend of raw, unfiltered nature and moments of personal endurance. The cold showers, the dusty air, and the snorting tent mate all became part of the story, enriching the overall experience. Seeing the Big Five in their natural habitat was a profound reminder of the beauty and complexity of the natural world. Interestingly, we didn’t witness any kills, which was a relief and added to the peacefulness of the experience.

This safari was more than just a journey through some of Africa’s most famous landscapes; it was an immersion into the wild, a chance to disconnect from modern comforts and reconnect with the primal rhythms of life. It was a trip that left an indelible mark on my soul, reminding me of the wild, untamed beauty that still exists in our world.