Tanzania
When our travel plans in 2020 were derailed by the Covid-19 pandemic, we were disappointed but determined to make the most of our next opportunity to explore the world. A year later, we found ourselves on an incredible adventure in Tanzania, a destination that exceeded our expectations with its stunning natural wonders, rich cultural experiences and unforgettable wildlife encounters.
Our itinerary included visits to some of Tanzania's most iconic destinations including the Tarangire National Park, Lake Manyara National Park, the Ngorongoro Crater, and the Serengeti National Park. Each stop offered a unique perspective on the country's diverse landscapes, wildlife and culture. Here's a breakdown of our family-friendly itinerary:
Day 1-2: Our journey began with a flight from Hamburg via Amsterdam to Kilimanjaro Airport, where we underwent another Covid-test despite having taken PCR tests prior to departure. Once we left the airport building, safety procedures seemed to fall by the wayside. After a late arrival, we were eager to get some rest before beginning our adventure. The following morning, we enjoyed a delicious breakfast surrounded by a group of playful monkeys eager to snatch our fruit. Our first stop was Tarangire National Park, a hidden gem known for its vast elephant herds. We had a thrilling encounter with a family of pachyderms who playfully dusted our safari vehicle with their trunks.
Day 3: The following day began with an exhilarating game drive through Lake Manyara National Park. We were captivated by the sight of a massive herd of buffalo, which dominated our attention. However, we also marveled at the stunning acacia trees, the diverse array of bird species that surrounded the wetlands and the other wildlife that graced our presence such as giraffes and zebras. As the sun began to set, we continued our journey to the Ngorongoro Crater and were fortunate enough to witness a rare sighting - a majestic leopard lounging on the road. It was a moment that left us in awe of Tanzania's breathtaking beauty and rich wildlife.
Day 4: The Ngorongoro Crater is undoubtedly one of Tanzania's most awe-inspiring natural wonders. It is a true testament to the beauty of nature and boasts a diverse range of wildlife, including majestic lions, enormous elephants, and graceful zebras. We were fortunate enough to spend an entire day inside the crater, exploring the magnificent landscape and encountering a plethora of animals that define Africa. Our children were particularly thrilled to enjoy a picnic by a hippo pool, while we were ecstatic to spot the rare serval cat and a number of jackals. Our local guide informed us that the crater is usually bustling with hundreds of safari vehicles, but we were privileged to have almost the entire National Park to ourselves - a perfect way to maintain distance and stay safe amidst the ongoing pandemic.😷
Day 5-9: On the following day we caught a flight from a local airstrip to Lobo airstrip located in the heart of the Serengeti National Park - a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most renowned game reserves in Africa. Our days were filled with exhilarating game drives, both in the morning and evening where we had the privilege of observing lions in their natural habitat and witnessed the incredible great migration - an absolute highlight of our trip.
Throughout our stay in Tanzania we had the pleasure of residing in some lovely lodges but TAASA lodge was beyond exceptional. Waking up to the sounds of the African bush was a breathtaking experience but it was the staff that truly made our stay unforgettable. They welcomed us as part of their family, sharing with us their Massai upbringing and going above and beyond to ensure our every need was met - from breakfast in bed to nature walks, picnics in the wild, and campfires at night. The staff at TAASA lodge were always full of delightful surprises that made our stay even more magical, leaving us with a desire to return to this wonderful place.
If you are planning a trip to Tanzania, we cannot recommend the Serengeti National Park and the TAASA lodge enough - a truly remarkable experience that will leave you with memories to cherish for a lifetime.
After these safari adventures, we went to Zanzibar for some relaxation:
In 2023 we returned to Tanzania. And this time we experienced the culture even deeper - we visited the Hadzabe tribe, the last hunters and gatherers on earth:
Why stop at ancient cultures and breathtaking nature, when there is even a HUGE challenge waiting in Tanzania?
Yes, we embarked on a very special adventure with Malik (7 years old), Emmet (9), Laila (11) and our grandma Tina (62) - we climbed to the roof of Africa: Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest mountain on the continent at 5,895m.
Marangu Route
Day 1: Marangu Gate (1.970hm) - Mandara Hut (2.700hm)
Day 2: Mandara Hut (2.700hm) - Horombo Hut (3.720hm)
Day 3: Acclimatization hike to the Zebra Rocks (4,100hm)
Day 4: Horombo Hut (3.730hm) - Kibo Hut (4.703hm)
Day 5: Instead of ascent to the summit (5,895hm), descent Kibo Hut (4,703hm) - Horombo Hut (3,720hm)
Day 6: Horombo Hut (3.720hm) - Marangu Gate (1.970hm)
And after all these challenges, we rewarded ourselves with another luxury safari in the Serengeti:
For families seeking an unforgettable travel experience, Tanzania is an ideal destination. While the trip can be expensive, the memories and experiences gained are priceless. We highly recommend planning a trip to Tanzania with kids - the cultural and educational value alone is worth it, not to mention the adventure and memories that will last a lifetime.
Are you still dreaming of elephants, lions and cheetahs or have you seen them up close already?
