Birding on Safari

On Safari, most people are so excited to see the Big 5 or the larger walking wildlife. But I am going to add, keep a lookout for birds. There are so many lovely birds you will get to spot on Safari. From the common but oh so beautiful lilac-breasted roller to the lifers. You know what I am talking about if you are a birder?

Into birding, do let us know before you head out on Safari. We will let our guide know so he can bring all the birding books for you and him to pour into on your game drive. If not, just enjoy them with your binoculars.

You will find hundreds of resident birds and many that fly all the way from Europe and Americas. Those birds that have flown from other places come here to Tanzania and other East and Southern African countries at the risk of being netted. A lot of countries on their route will poach and illegally trap them. 

But there is hope.

Organizations around the world who love birds are spreading the word to people like me who were not aware of such activities. My mentor, Safari guide extraordinaire Paul Oliver was the one who opened my eyes when we were birding in Lake Natron. He told me about the plight of the wadders, who are being netted by the thousands when flying over the Mediterranean countries.

I leave you with some lovely birds captured on my Safaris. Every time I go on Safari, I learn to love them more and more. Let your guide tell you more about each bird. They all have personalities that are unique to each of them. From the calls, the nesting habits, the show boating behavior to attract mate[s], etc. They have their own stories you will truly enjoy.

Your turn? Come shoot them .. with your camera.  

Lilac Breasted Roller

Buffalo Weaver

African Hornbill

Red-and-Yellow Barbet

African Hoopoe

African Fish Eagle

Weaver

Mornings on Safari

Getting ready for your Safari? Think about the range of wildlife you will encounter, the experiences awaiting you, and the joy of rising at the same time as the sun to really make the most of your day.

That last part not quite your idea of fun? No worries – we are serving plenty of tea or coffee! Seriously though, I get it – those early morning wake-up calls can feel rough. But hear me out... because that first cuppa on Safari? Pure. Magic.

So, what can you expect? The sky is a swirl of pinks and oranges, and birds twitter enthusiastically all around you as your guide stops the vehicle. You take one look at your surroundings, and you know this spot is special – your guide’s favorite secret to share. Maybe a watering hole already dotted with thirsty animals on the banks or a clearing with a sprawling view of the plains. 

It’s not long after getting settled that you smell the freshly brewed coffee or tea snaking through the crisp morning air, promising a jolt of energy (and maybe even a little extra oomph in the form of a cheeky dash of Amarula –a South African creamy liqueur). The sunlight slowly creeps across the bush, and as the warmth spreads, you might hear a rustle, a grunt, or a distant roar. This is the magic hour, folks. Wildlife is stirring, the bush is alive, and you’re doing more than just watching it happen – you’re a part of the experience. 

These coffee and tea stops are about so much more than just that much-needed caffeine kick before a day of exploring the bush. They are about connection – with the wild, your loved ones, your guide, and yourself. Talk about a way to start your day! 

So, as you’re packing your bags and preparing for your Safari, take a moment to look forward to those crack-of-dawn coffee and tea stops that await. Morning person or not, I guarantee they will be a highlight.

I get asked what coffee and tea are my favorites. I still love my Tanzanian Chai Bora tea. Over the years, I have tried a few different coffee beans and currently using Volcanica medium roast. I also enjoy my Africafe Instant Coffee - I know I know, instant coffee, but this takes me back home, and with milk, this is my go to coffee.

Lost in Translation

On Safari, you are going to be spending a lot of time with your guide, your new friend as well as lodge crew, managers, maybe trackers, local indeginous groups, etc. . They all come from a different cultures, different backgrounds, and will work with the information we provide to work hard to show you a great time. That is everyone’s goal and our repeat clients are a testament to how hard everyone works to make it happen.

Be open and patient with things that can get ‘lost in translation’.

My guide Makubi from Dunia Camp in Central Serengeti , Tanzania was telling me his Wakuria tribe culture was not to look in the eye when talking. That is a sign of aggression. He would never do that in his village with his elders or peers. In our western culture, if you don’t look in the eye when talking, you are rude. The dilemma. He adapted.

David is a Maasai in Tanzania. A proud warrior whose Maasai blanket [his tribal clothing] would peek from his sleeve. He said wearing the clothing reminded him of his heritage. He would sit with us for dinner and share some good stories of his people, wildlife, Tanzania, etc. When we were served polenta with our lamp chop, he would be polite and have small bites but I have a feeling after our meal, he would head to the kitchen and prepare his own local food.

Keagan is a white South African guide working with a Donald, the local Shangan tracker at Sabi Sabi Selati Lodge, Sabi Sands, South Africa. Together, they team up to show the guests the best time. Max has learnt tracking from his forefathers while Keagan went to guide school. Putting the different experiences together, you have an outstanding understanding of the wildlife, the place, the land, the different cultures everyone brings, and more.

Most people you will encounter go through lots of training so they can understand our sensibility and adapt for our comfort. To be fair, be open to a different culture. Don’t get offended with what may not translate to our culture.  Talk. You will learn from your new friend when on Safari.

Isn’t that part of the adventure of traveling to another place?

Planning your dream Safari for every stage of life.

Jambo, adventurous souls!

My guest Jill K. will be heading on another Safari with us again after 11 years. Her first Safari was as a couple and now, she is taking her family with her [love multigenerational Safaris].

I believe Safaris should be life-changing experiences, tailored uniquely to every traveler. No matter what stage of life you’re in, whether you’re a free-spirited gap year adventurer or a grandparent making memories with your grandkids, there’s a Safari of a lifetime waiting for you – and I can’t wait to help you plan it!

Here's a look at a few important considerations for a Safari based on your current life stage, along with some insights into how I’ll go above and beyond to ensure it’s full of the African magic you’ve been dreaming of.

Alisa has been on five Journey to Africa Safaris and two of them solo. With Gorillas in Rwanda.

1. Solo Safaris
Embarking on a solo Safari is a profound journey within – you’re discovering new places and yourself. Here’s how I make your solo adventure both exhilarating and soulful:

• Safety First: All my guests’ safety is paramount. I ensure experienced guides lead all the solo safaris I plan – and trust me when I tell you these guides know the lands like the back of their hands.

• Connect with People: Whether it is a private Safari or a shared Safari, when traveling solo, having the interesting connections is what we hope you will come back with … from your guide and fellow travelers.

• Flexible Itineraries: The itineraries I design will give you freedom while ensuring you experience the best of Africa. Want to spend an extra day tracking wildlife on foot or exploring a local market? Let’s make it happen.

Patricia and Arnaud celebrating their honeymoon in Tanzania.

2. Romantic and Honeymoon Safaris
A honeymoon, anniversary, or a ‘just because’ romantic Safari means you’ll
celebrate your love in one of the most magnificent places on earth. Here’s how I
ensure a dreamy experience for my lovebirds:

• Exclusive Lodges and Camps: Privacy and comfort are key for a
  romantic getaway. I handpick secluded places-to-stay known for
  their gorgeous views, exceptional service, and romantic ambiance. How
  does waking up to the sight of elephants at the waterhole right from your
  private deck sound?

• Unique Experiences: Africa is a land of extraordinary experiences that
  extend far beyond the Jeep. I arrange once-in-a-lifetime activities, such as
  private hot air balloon rides over the Serengeti, candlelit dinners under the
  stars, or picnics and sundowners in the middle of no-where.

• Bespoke Itineraries: Every couple is unique, and your Safari should be,
  too. Whether you’re thrill-seekers keen on tracking the Big Five or prefer a leisurely pace with plenty of spa treatments and cozy evenings by the bonfire, I’ll tailor your itinerary to match.

• Celebrate in Style: If you’re honeymooning or celebrating another
  special relationship milestone, let me know, and I’ll add some surprise
  touches – be it a champagne breakfast in the bush or a serenade by local
  musicians.

Two Journey to Africa Safaris for this beautiful family. This Safari was in South Africa with Singita Lodges.

3. Family Safaris
There’s nothing I love more than family Safaris – seeing children’s eyes light up when they spot their first lion or when learning the art of animal tracking alongside a helpful guide is always so heartwarming. Here’s how I put a smile on the kids’ faces while ensuring a balance between family bonding and downtime for parents and grandparents:

• Child-Friendly Activities: My family Safaris place the kids at the core. I choose places-we-stay with engaging kids’ programs and activities and ensure spacious, ultra-comfy family-friendly accommodation. I also take your children’s ages into consideration – after all, what might keep a nine- year-old busy probably won’t be quite as inspiring for an adventurous teen.

• Flexible Itineraries: As a mom myself, I know families rely on a delicate balance of adventure and relaxation. I craft my itineraries to be flexible, whether it’s a lazy afternoon by the pool or an exciting nature walk. There’s something for everyone – and I make sure it’s easy to make adjustments as needed (nobody’s going to enjoy an early morning game drive if your toddler had a bad night... breakfast in bed will probably sound much more inviting in that instance!).

• Educational Opportunities: A family Safari is a living classroom where children learn about wildlife, ecosystems, and conservation firsthand. Africa’s guides are skilled at sharing knowledge in a fun way, sparking a lifelong love and respect for nature in young hearts.

• Accommodation: Comfort is crucial, especially when traveling with kids. Which is why I select family-friendly places-to-stay offering safe, comfortable, and convenient lodging options. Think family suites or interconnected rooms, equipped with amenities catering to everyone’s needs.

A sweet family on Safari in Serengeti, Tanzania. Can’t wait to take them back on Safari.

4. Multigenerational Safaris
Why not bring the whole family on Safari? Here’s how I accommodate the interests of every age group:

• Accessibility and Comfort: I choose accessible and comfortable destinations and lodges, including those with easy access for grandma and grandpa, as well as those offering engaging activities for the littles.

• Private Accommodation and Transport: Private accommodation and transport means more space and time for family bonding. Whether it’s a private safari vehicle for game drives or exclusive-use lodges, these arrangements ensure a personalized and intimate experience for your family.

• Flexible Pacing: Understanding the varying energy levels and interests within a multigenerational group, I pace the Safari accordingly. There’s lot of time for rest, leisure activities, and private family moments amidst the organized tours and activities.

• Safety and Health Considerations: Your family’s health and safety are my priority. This includes providing options for dietary requirements and ensuring immediate access to medical care if needed.

No matter where you are in life’s journey, Africa’s calling with an adventure that’s the perfect fit for you. Let’s chat about designing the Safari of your dreams!

Badass Guide!

“Lots of wildlife sightings - elephants, zebras, leopard and a cheetah (has not been seen
for a year according to our guide). On our last am game drive, we spotted two male lions eating a dead elephant followed by separate sighting of three females. Our guide Moss was a badass. He knew where to go for optimal viewing to make the experience so memorable.”
- Niharika M. Botswana and Zimbabwe Safari

One of the musts for a memorable Safari is a great guide, or as our guest Niharika stated …badass guide. We love this!

Here are 5 ways the right guide will turn your trip into a truly unforgettable adventure:

1. Storytellers that bring the wilderness to life.
Great guides entertain you around the campfire with fascinating tales of the bush. Their passion and knowledge make the landscape and animals come alive with unique stories you’ll never forget. They have endless information to share that transforms your Safari into an immersive adventure.

2. Experts who lead you right to the action.
Guides have a sixth sense for spotting elusive wildlife and navigating right to the best sightings. Their skill and intuition will take you up close to lions, leopards, cheetahs, elephants, and more. You’ll get to witness exhilarating hunts, cute cubs playing, and the rarest creatures hidden in the bush.

3. Your host, protector and Safari companion.
Your guide sticks by your side for hours a day as your personal host, protector, and companion. You'll treasure quiet conversations around the fire under starry night skies. And they’ll lead you on exciting off-road adventures tailored to your interests. Their passion is contagious.

4. Perfect matches for solo travelers.
Opting for a private guide all to yourself is an amazing way to Safari if you’re traveling solo. You’ll form a special bond with your own personal expert. And you can fully customize your days around your interests, with no compromises. And even if you are part of a group, and the rest of the party wants to stay back in the lodge and relax, go out on a solo drive with your guide.

5. Tailored for different types of groups
Great guides adapt their approach for different types of travelers. Honeymooners are focused on romance, so guides pick romantic sundowner spots. Families with small kids get guides who love engaging little ones with stories and games. Teen groups find guides who make Safaris exciting with off-the-beaten-track adventures. We match guides to you!

The right guide crafts unforgettable moments and connections on your Safari.
Let’s get you on Safari so you can meet your badass guides!

Adventures beyond the Safari vehicle.

I know, the main purpose of going on a Safari is to enjoy wildlife from your safety and comfort of your Safari Vehicle. Done! We got you! But, there are other adventures we can add that will give you a different perspective … and these can be so much fun.

1. Walking Safaris
Walking safaris offer an immersive and exhilarating way to experience the African wilderness up close. Unlike being in a Safari vehicle, a walking Safari brings you into direct contact with the sights, sounds, and smells of the bush. Guided by experienced trackers, you’ll learn about tracking techniques, the behavior of various wildlife, and the intricate ecosystems. It’s a chance to see the smaller wonders of the bush, from insects to plants, that are often overlooked in traditional Safaris.

Ideal for: Wildlife enthusiasts, photographers, and those seeking a deeper connection with nature. We can add this in almost every country.

On the Ngorongoro Highlands, Tanzania via Entamanu Ngorongoro.

2. Gorilla and Chimp Trekking Experience
Yes, coming face-to-face with endangered gorillas in either Rwanda, Uganda, or Congo’s rainforest is possible – an experience many aptly describe as ‘life-changing’. The same goest with chimps in those areas as well as Mahale Mountains in Tanzania. Watching these human like animals in the wild and observing their movements, relationships, and daily routines is an intimate and profound experience. You’ll learn about their behaviors, their importance in the ecosystem, and the efforts currently underway to protect them. Be ready for long hikes, sometimes through difficult terrains but if you can do this, the rewards are tremendous.

Ideal for: Nature lovers, adventure seekers, and anyone passionate about conservation.

Mahale Mountains, Tanzania for the chimps from Greystoke Mahale.

3. Hot Air Balloon Safaris
Ready for a new perspective on Africa? Take to the skies on a hot air balloon Safari! Watching the world awaken from up high is pretty special – you can see animals beginning their day and the vast wilderness stretching out as far as the eye can see. Plus, as exhilarating as this experience is, it’s also super peaceful up there. The cherry on top? Landing for a laid-back breakfast in the bush, maybe even with a bit of bubbly or a mimosa to toast your adventure (why not? You’re on vacation!).

Ideal for: Anyone looking for a Safari with a twist and photography fanatics. Really, anyone.

Our entertaining Serengeti Balloon Safari Captain Mohammed. Serengeti, Tanzania.

4. Star Gazing in the Wilderness
Ever gazed up at a sky so clear you feel like you could touch the stars? That’s what stargazing and star bathing in the African wilderness is all about. You’ll learn cool stuff about constellations, maybe hear some local myths about the night sky, and, if you’re lucky, spot a shooting star or two. So many of my places-to-stay partners know how to make this experience extra special – think sleeping on the deck of a treehouse, removable roofing in your tented suite, or even spending the evening in a stargazing dome.

Ideal for: Night owls, space enthusiasts, and the romantics.

Olmara Camp, Serengeti, Tanzania

5. Dhow & Mokoro Safaris
Think of a mokoro Safari as the ultimate way to explore the Okavango Delta’s winding waterways and Dhow Safaris as a fantastic way to explore the beautiful islands of Zanzibar. You might spot elephants taking a dip, hippos lounging in the shallows, or birds flitting through the reeds. It’s like watching a nature documentary unfold, but way cooler because you’re actually there. And the best part? The tranquillity. It’s just you and your guide, the dhow, and nature. No engines, no crowds, and no distractions.

Ideal for: Nature buffs and anyone looking for a relaxing adventure.

Okavango Delta, Botswana.

So, there you have it – a sneak peek into some of Africa’s most unique adventures. I can’t wait to help you discover these hidden gems!

Feeling the call of the wild? Ready to swap the everyday for the extraordinary?
Let’s chat! I’m super excited to design your Safari beyond the Safari vehicle, tailored just for you. Whether you’re exploring solo, a family on an epic adventure, or a group of friends seeking new horizons, I’m here to make it happen.

Still going strong!

Trick-or-treating was different this year. My 14 year old son and 12 year old daughter wanted to hang out and walk with friends. It was lovely to see them creating their own memories. I did however go down a rabbit hole of their younger year photos - how I made their costumes and walked around the neighborhood together. 

I went down my email rabbit hole as well and found this gem of an email.

"Hello Mefi, I took a safari arranged by you personally WAY BACK in May of 2001, with your parents picking me up at the airport in Dar es Salaam, and Issa as a guide.  It was all spectacular, except for all the rolls of film I remember having to haul around :) 

I would like to plan a return trip in early 2020, finally, this time with my girlfriend and another couple.  I just checked the web to see if you were still in this business and I guess you are."
- Greg S. Email sent in Feb 2019. 

 Yes, I am still going strong after 23 years with slowdowns here and there for two kiddos and a global pandemic. I know some of you have chatted with me while I was rocking my then babies. I started off planning Safaris only to my home country of Tanzania and now plan all over Eastern and Southern Africa as well as the Congo Basin. It truly has been a wild ride of traveling to the many locations, learning, growing, evolving, and Safari planning with all of you. 

Here's to many more years and emails like Greg's. By the way, Greg took Lori, Deb and Tom on Safari in 2022 and they had a marvelous time on Safari in Tanzania!

Gift Guide for the Safari Goer.

Need some ideas of what to get yourself or your loved one?
If you are going on a Safari or are a Safari enthusiast, here are some ideas that I can personally vouch for. 

Seeking Information - my personal favorites:

• Love, Life, and Elephants: An African Love Story by Daphne Sheldrick.
  Dame Daphne Sheldrick is an icon. She has done amazing work for the orphaned elephants in Kenya. We love taking our guests to the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust in Nairobi, Kenya were you can adopt and pet an elephant. You can read about her ‘why’ in this book.

• The Elephant Whisperer - by Lawrence Anthony.
  What a story about how deep one can go because they love an animal. Anthony was one of those people for the elephants in South Africa. You will have a chuckle as well reading about how smart those elephants are as well.

• Beat About The Bush by Trevor Carnaby.
  This field guide tells you a story about the wildlife and birds. Things like 'do elephants have good memories?' to 'why do lions have manes?'. Fun Facts. I reference this book often when I am trying to learn about an animal. I also gave this book as a gift to my daughter’s friend who wants to be a vet and loves to share information about animals.

• The Birds of East Africa by Terry Stevenson.
  Give birds a chance. Once you start paying attention to birds, you will be hooked. Coo Coo. I don’t take this book on Safari because of the weight of this book. When I am back and reviewing my bird pictures, I use this book to identify.
  
  Tip - I never seem to remember bird names. I write them down on my Notes App [I have an IPhone] or my notebook when the Safari guide tells me the names or shows me their bird book. When I am sorting my pictures at home, it becomes a fun game to try to match the picture and the bird using this guide.

• The Overstory by Richard Powers.
  Nothing to do with Safari but if you love nature, this one is a good book to read. You will not look at trees the same way. Richard Powers is Pulitzer Prized author living in the Smokey Mountain in the US - another gorgeous area in this lovely planet.

Photography:
My favorite hobby.  I have moved on from being a hobbyist to amateur, ahem, and one of my favorite gifts to myself has been my camera.

If you or your partner are looking into buying a camera and are new to the camera game, I would recommend:

• a Canon T8i, a good starter DSLR camera. I had a T3 when I started and I still use pictures from that camera.

• If you know you are going to use your camera often, get my current crop body Canon 80D - not a full frame camera but one that I can use outside of Safari. After many years of borrowing from Photo Rental Source [ummh, could have paid for the lens with all the borrowing I did], I finally bought the Canon 70-300 mm lens. Not too heavy for me and gives me the reach I need. A lot of my photography friends recommended the Canon 100-400 mm lens. This may be a good lens to borrow - see my notes below.

• Want the mother-load camera? Then go all out for the Canon 5DMarkIII. If you are a pro- you know about this camera already.

• I know many of my professional Safari guide friends use Sony. If I was looking at a Sony for my future Safari, this Sony AR111 is what I would be getting. I would borrow a telephoto lens.

If you want to do a good point and shoot, my client Natalie got the Canon Powershot. My Safari guide in Congo, Lucy recommends Sony RX 10 IV. She has some great photographs and videos with this compact camera from her Safaris all over Africa.

The other option is renting camera body and lens. Photo Rental Source is my go to place in Houston and they ship nationwide. B&H Photo have used lens that would also work or call them to get camera ideas. They are fantastic and will guide you with the hundreds of options out there.

Binoculars:
After a day or two on a game drive, everyone gets into the searching-mode for wildlife and birds with hawk-eyed Safari guides. A professional guide / guide trainer recommended these Vortex binoculars to me. The key to good binoculars he said, to simplify the complicated science behind the machine, is 10x42 and good prism glass. I have had these for a few years and a few of my Safari guide friends also use these so I know I am in good company.

Tech Tool to consider:

• The Anker Battery for my IPhone - I always take this with me. Times when I have been grateful I have had it is when I am on planes. You need to have your phone for boarding pass, etc and a low battery for me is stressful. When the room does not have a charging station close to the bed. My IPhone is always charged this way for photos, music listening for the room, etc.

David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust

Organizations we Trust:
These are my personal favorites because I can vouch that your gift will be put to good use. If you are going on Safari, we can arrange a visit or meeting. If you have been to these places or met our contacts on your Safari, hope you agree. 

• David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust - they are amazing. From anti-poaching to caring for young elephants; you can donate or foster one or more elephants. My elephant is Ndoto. 

• Carbon Tanzania - if you go on a Safari with us, you are already contributing to this great organization because all of our partners on the ground [a requirement for us to use them] offset carbon footprint with them. We can always do more. 

• Rift Valley Children's Home - we stop every time we go to Ngorongoro and continue to be impressed with how happy, loved and smart the kids are here. Kudos to a great team lead by Mama India and Baba Peter. 

• Honeyguide Foundation - we know Damian Bell and have seen him in action with ranger training. They protect the precious wildlife from human-wildlife conflict - a big issue - to poaching related matter. Wildlife is threatened from all sides - we must do all we can to help save so many species from extinction. 

• Big Life Foundation - goodness they have a task. They take care of a large areas in Kenya but also partner with other areas in Tanzania. From anti-poaching to providing water during drought to veterinarian work, etc. They work with David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust when dealing with elephants they find orphaned around Kenya.

Ethical Shopping:
If you are into sustainable fashion, you will love that when you purchase items from these selected sellers. You are supporting females, like the Maasai ladies in the villages in Northern Tanzania or local artisans who can continue to support their families through your purchase.

• Sidai Designs is a company helping the Maasai ladies. Their jewelry is sustainable and modern enough to wear on a daily bases. I love my few pieces that I have from them. If you are in Arusha, Tanzania, we can arrange for you to spend time with the Maasai mamas.

• Adele Dejak. I first saw my colleague Brook wear her rings many moons ago and fell in love with them. I spotted them in South Africa at Sabi Sabi Lodge but wanted to wait until I got to Nairobi, Kenya to buy my beloved pieces from their original store and I did! These three rings are [I can use them as self-defence if needed I think] my most worn items but they have so many other cool pieces. Oh, and in Dec 2022, she was in Senegal dressing the models from Chanel for their runway walk. Pretty cool Adele!

Clothing:
When on Safari, you want to be comfortable. There is really no dress code, but, if you want to ‘blend -in’ a bit, we recommend wear clothing that has SPF, dry fast should there by a light shower or so, and colors that mix in with nature.

• When I was in The Republic of Congo, I took this Amazon Shirt [similar if sold out] with me and surprising, it was my most worn shirt. Now for my Safaris in Eastern and Southern Africa, I have not always taken my own advice [our packing list guide] and worn black and blue. But in The Republic of Congo - that was a no-go. The tse-tse flies there are extra nasty especially on the river so this shirt was my most worn shirt on the Safari, on repeat too, after many sweaty walks and you know, the people around me were not complaining of foul odor. :)

• Comfortable pants are a must. From game driving all day, walking in them - from knee deep to chimp trekking to light stroll, having the stretch to get in the Safari vehicle, quick drying from the sprinkle, etc. I am sure you have those pants in the closet. However, if you are looking for my recommendation, I have had Kuhl brand pants that I have been wearing for the past six’ish years and they have been with me on multiple Safaris. [Similar Kuhl Pants or these one from Baleaf are also good as per a few guests of mine.]
  
  Get good ones because the Safari bug is real - as in - you will go on multiple Safaris I promise. Purchase ones you like so you can re-wear.

We hope you found something useful for you or your Safari partner, loved one. Need more ideas? Reach out to us and we can brain storm a bit more.

Originally written in Dec 2016.
Updated on Dec 2022.