Which African Safari Animal Are You at the Table?

Happy Thanksgiving, Safari family!

In honor of the holiday, I thought we’d have a little fun and imagine what our Thanksgiving dinners might look like if we all took on the personalities of African Safari animals. Trust me, I’ve been at enough family and friends gatherings to recognize a few of these characters! 😉

So... which one are you?

The Hyena: The One Doing All the Talking (And Giggling)

This relative never stays quiet for long!

Whether they’re sharing stories or cracking dad jokes, they’re always the life of the get-together, keeping conversations going whether you asked for updates or not! 😂

The Warthog: The Messy-Eating Toddler

Ahhh, the littlest one at the table.

Food all over the place, hands in everything... and leaving a trail of mashed potatoes and gravy from their highchair to the floor.

🙃 But hey, they’re cute, so we let it slide!

The Lion: The Head of the Table

The lion – king (or queen) of the family gathering.

👑 They’re the one who carves the turkey, makes the “rules,” and keeps everyone in line. Don’t try to challenge them – it’s their den, and we’re just here to dig in! 😉

The Elephant: The Matriarch Who’s Convinced
No-one’s Had Enough to Eat

The elephant is the family matriarch, keeping an eye on all the plates and generously doling out second and third helpings.

Her job is to ensure everyone leaves the table in a food coma. 🦃🍗🍂

The Meerkat: The Gossip Monger

You know the one... they didn’t come for the food; they came for the tea. The meerkat’s head is always popping up whenever there’s a hint of juicy family drama – no side conversation escapes their keen ears!

The Zebra: The Fashionable Guest

Always dressed to impress, the Zebra is that cousin who shows up in the trendiest Thanksgiving outfit. Stripes may be their signature look, but at the dinner table, they’re rocking the fanciest ensemble and making everyone else look like they rolled straight off the couch (which is likely true.) 😂

The Baboon: The Mischief-Maker

We’ve all got one… the family member who just cannot sit still. The Baboon is the mischievous uncle or cheeky sibling stealing extra rolls from the breadbasket and plotting who they’re going to prank next. 🙉 If there’s chaos at the table, you know the Baboon’s behind it!

The Honey Badger: Only Here for Dessert

The Honey Badger doesn’t care about the turkey or the stuffing. They’ve got one thing on their mind: pumpkin pie… and they’re not keen to share!

The Hippo:
The One Who Drank Too Much Red Wine

They started out with good intentions, but soon the hippo’s making waves! With a few too many glasses of red in their system, they’re getting louder by the minute and may have already knocked over a glass or two. 🍷😅

I hope you had a good laugh at these descriptions and recognize one, or more, in you or someone you are going to share a meal with.

Here’s to good food and wild family and friend memories.
Happy Thanksgiving!

"Next level Mefi!!!!"

Seeing joy on my guests faces when they are on Safari is next level.

When Soraiya and I were planning her multi-generational family Safari to Tanzania, her asks were family friendly, Ngorongoro, Serengeti, and scuba diving. They were going in June so I knew I had to take them to two locations in Serengeti to make sure they got to see the wildebeest and zebra migration. I chose Central Serengeti and Lahia House, and ending with Mkombe’s House, a private home in Northern Serengeti so the kids can run around freely. And for scuba diving, Fundu Lagoon on Pemba Island can’t be beat.

Thanks to Soriaya for these behind-the-scenes, blow-by-blow short and sweet texts of her multi-generational family Safari unfolding in Tanzania. Texts like these are gold and what keeps us going.

Let’s start at the very beginning!

“Arrive in Kilimanjaro, with Sia in the car, super smoooth!”

Thank you to my Safari partners Nomad Tanzania.

In Ngorongoro Crater

“Ali and Gabu are phenomenal!”

”Hey hey! Excellent day in Serengeti! We have seen SO many animals and an amazing migration already!!!”

”Rooms are amazing [at Lahia] and the place is a small slice of heaven on Earth!!”

Lahia Tented Lodge, Central Serengeti. 

Mefi’s Note:
They flew to Northern Serengeti from Central and met up guides from Mkombe House.

”We were sad to say bye to Gabu and Ali.”

Ali hugging.

Deep conversation.

Enjoying the space. 

“Mkombe House in PHENOMENAL!!! Wowowow!”

Mefi’s Note:
Mkombe House is a great for families. A private house in Northern Serengeti with enough rooms for 10-11 people . Laurence and James, managers from Lamai Serengeti and Babu, manager at Mkombe’s House take care great care of my guests.

Mkombe’s House crew under the helm of Babu. 

“Next level Mefi!!!! This was the WOW moment of the trip. My MIL, “ I have seen a lot of things in my 80 years - this I have never seen.” “

Breakfast in the savannah.

Dickson showing his skills. 

Mefi’s Note:
Our friends on Safari love little kids. They can’t help carry them. My daughter, on her Safari when she was 11 years, noticed that she was ‘carried’ around by mostly everyone we met. Be prepared.

“Shut the front door Mefi! What is this insanity?!?! Happy hour in the Savannah!”

Mefi’s Note:
Keeping the images a secret ;) as you too may get this surprise on your Tanzanian Safari from Lamai Serengeti or Mkombe’s House, one of our favorite places to stay in Northern Serengeti.

“Wow! What a surprise arrival into Fundu!! We had no idea we boated in! Everyone felt like they were in a James Bond Movie!!”

These were the little texts I got throughout the Safari and they gave me goosebumps.

After their Safari, we chatted on the phone and I got more amazing stories from her. From how they saw a cheetah on their last game drive in Serengeti with Dickson to catching a barracuda fish at Fundu Lagoon. How they got so attached to the guides and were screaming with joy when they bumped into Ali, their first guide on their game drives with Dickson in Northern Serengeti. The food on Safari. All the special surprises we had planned for them.

A comment Soraiya made after their Safari was confirmed was, “That was easy!”.
That is my goal! To make your Safari planning as easy for you as possible. We know the right places to take you, for the right times. We can’t wait to show you our Tanzania.

Why should you take a Safari to Zambia?

Been on Safari and thinking of where to for your next Safari?
It’s a no-brainer: Zambia! After my recent trip, I’m absolutely in love with this place, and I’m betting you will be too. Here are a few reasons why I’ve fallen head over heels:

1. The Wildlife.

Grab your front-row seat - Zambian wildlife is next level. So many stories I can share.
- The rare wild dog moments in South Luangwa, chilling after a meal and not budging to the epic impala chase in Lower Zambezi National Park. While the pack did get the impala and devoured it in minutes, I am glad in some way I did not see the kill itself as I am sure it was brutal.
- The beautiful leopard sightings with the best morning light. I skipped my walk for this moment with my Safari guide Sandy from Sungani Lodge. Well worth the gaze.
- Every game drive highlighted elephants with wee ones and lots of them. Just being in the quiet with them, I got to see so many cool interactions. Elephants all day, any day.
- Lions galore. Every drive, we had lion sightings. From a sibling pair playing with sticks and the older sibling not being in the mood for play, to a cheeky lion cub trying to sneak a bite of his dad’s kill. He patiently tried hard for minutes and Dad was NOT feeling generous – cue some serious family drama with the mama lion running to check in on the young one.
- Lots of giraffes on Safari - got to see them necking and mating. Pretty neat.
- From the river banks in Luangwa and Zambezi, I got to see the beginning of the carmine bee-eaters migration - they were making their way to nest. I had heard of this so was excited to get a glimpse of them arriving.
- My Safari guide and I were transferring through Mosi-O-Tunya and at a distance, we see something large. I say “hippo“ and he say’s “elephants“, and when we got closer, we both got goosebumps as there were two white rhinos. We could not stop talking about them until we got to Matetsi River Lodge in Zimbabwe.

Moments like this, with a lion pride, a pack of wild dogs, elephants, and more, make Zambia one of the best countries for wildlife viewing.

2. The People.

Welcoming and warm! You’ll get all the feels from the moment you step onto Zambian soil. The Safari guides shared with me more than wildlife stories. I heard how school works in villages to getting through college and how some guides move to towns like Livingstone and Lusaka for better education for their kids. They shared how they decided to become guides and the process. I heard of the challenges of health care in Zambia especially if you are in remote areas. So much to learn.

The kind and caring lodge crew made sure I ate well and had my morning tea or decaf coffee for me. I always try to chat with them and I can’t wait for some of them to become Safari guides.

To the local artisans in Mfuwe in South Luangwa to the craft market near Victoria Falls, you’ll have a blast bargaining if you are into that but just remember, every extra dollar you spend makes a big difference to the local families!

My tip, I bargain to get the thrill, and then end up paying the original price quoted.

3. The Places.

Amazing hospitality. After hours of bouncing around in a 4x4 Safari vehicle, you’ll want somewhere comfortable to put your feet up. One family run lodge that won the couch test was Sungani Lodge. The couches are so comfortable here – just one example of the Safari essentials you never knew you needed.

Each place [more details here] offered gorgeous views, great food, and all sorts of wildlife rolling in for a visit – I was spoilt on every couch.

4. Victoria Falls.

Nature’s biggest showstopper. Victoria Falls is an absolute must-see when you’re in Zambia, or Zimbabwe. Known locally as “Mosi-oa-Tunya” – The Smoke That Thunders – the sheer power and beauty of the Falls will leave you with your mouth hanging open for minutes at a time. Even in September when the falls is not thundering, I was in awe of this geological wonder. Andddd, I got to experience the Devil’s Pool. Mind blowing experience.

If thunderous stream is what you are after, the Zambian side during the drier months does slow down hence going to the Zimbabwe side may be the answer. You have to be patient because you have to cross the border and would recommend getting the KAZA visa on arrival. But the beauty doesn’t fade with the water levels – this natural wonder is awesome all year round!

5. Fewer Vehicles at this time.

What a treat this is for those of us who are used to areas with lots of vehicles. To have a leopard, lion or wild dog sighting limited to one to two vehicles - wow. When we were trying to capture the wild dogs hunting in Lower Zambezi, my guide Taps was all flustered because there were about ten or so vehicles all trying to get a closer look. I hope they always keep the numbers low, which means we need to make sure we support the right lodges who are protecting the areas.

Would love to chat more with you about the beauty that is Zambia.

Livingstone Island and Devil's Pool.

Perched on the edge!

One of the highlights of my trip was visiting the iconic Devil’s Pool at Victoria Falls. Now, I am afraid of heights, and my intention was to just observe the process for you all, but the guides somehow convinced me to take the plunge in the cold water. Literally!

Imagine being perched on the edge of the largest waterfall in the world, with nothing but a slippery rock between you and a sheer drop. Don’t worry, someone is holding your legs. It was exhilarating and terrifying at the same time. The guides were amazing and wouldn’t take my hesitation for an answer, telling me, “Go, go, get in!” Before I knew it, I was in the water, swimming to the edge, taking this photo!

The guides even take your phone in a waterproof bag and film you from the edge. Pretty scary seeing them walk on the edge confidently, without a harness. Talk about a once-in-a-lifetime experience! Glad I can say I am one of those who has ‘jumped in the deep end’.

The sequence of your day will depend on how you are booked. I had the noon time frame, which meant I got to enjoy lunch after my adventure. There are many time slots and all of that will be booked last minute, when you are there by your lodge in Livingstone, Victoria Falls.

A plunge here is dependent on the time of the year you are going. If June or July, and the water levels are high and rough, you may get to do the Angel’s Pool instead of the Devil’s Pool. When drier or less rough, the Devil’s Pool will be possible. Your guides will assist on the day you are there .. you have to be flexible as it is nature dependent.

Zambia, you blew me away!

Zambia, you are amazing!

You know how much I adore Tanzania. It’s my home country. But a recent trip to Zambia absolutely blew me away. Honestly, I wasn’t expecting to fall head over heels for this country but, Zambia, you surprised me!

A Zambian hospitality recap.

My arrival at Latitude 15.

From the moment I landed in Lusaka and was greeted with friendly smiles and efficient service, I knew this trip was going to be special. I enjoyed a quick stay at Latitude 15, a beautifully decorated boutique hotel in Lusaka. It’s a fantastic first stop that allows you to chill in style following your long trek to Zambia and sets the tone for the rest of the trip.

Off to South Luangwa National Park.

Puku Ridge Camp

Puku Ridge Camp was my first introduction to Zambia’s places-to-stay. This place was a dream, with its mix of mopane forest and open plains. Perfect for photographing wildlife without obstruction. From here, I saw large elephant herds, wild dogs, giraffes, and even a pride of lions that had just taken down a hippo. Oh, the smell will linger in my nostrils for a while.

The rooms had all the creature comforts and more. My travel was in September and, boy, does it get hot during the day. When you are taking a break from the early game drive, you do need a little help from your friend the AC.

The crew - very charming. From the many managers to my host, Limbi. I really had some good laughs and was well taken care off.

Now, here’s a tip: Zambia starts its game drives early. Like, 5:30 - 6:00 am early! So, by 10am, you’re done. That means lots of downtime, so make sure you’re prepared with a great read, light packable card or board games, movies or shows on your device, or to catch up on beauty sleep!

Sungani Camp

Next up was Sungani Camp, a family-run lodge that stole my heart. Beautiful location overlooking a large water-hole, delicious food. Photographers, they had the most amazing camera equipment room. They had everything from Nikon to Canon, and even GoPros and gimbals. And two hides, for wildlife and the carmine bee eaters - amazing, I know!

Another thing about Sungani that stands out? They had the most comfortable couches in their rooms – now there’s a Safari essential you didn’t know you needed. After a long day of game drives, a comfy couch is a lifesaver. You can nap, read, or just enjoy the view with a drink in hand.

On to glorious Lower Zambezi National Park.

Anabezi Camp

I had to travel through Winterthorn forest to get here – and, once again, I fell in love. The best part about staying at Anabezi is the access to this magical forest and the wildlife that resides here.

From the wild dog and lion den that are about 15 min away from the camp, to the leopards and elephants that are also minutes away. One morning, in 2 hours, I had packed a punch with my wildlife sighting, I could have happily called it a day, but I didn’t because the sunset boat ride awaited on the mighty Zambezi River.

With a range of activities here, as with most camps in Lower Zambezi, there is always something new to do - from canoeing depending on the water level and an evening cruise on the Zambezi River to fishing, lunch cruises, walking Safaris … always a different perspective to enjoy the area and it’s glorious wildlife.

The camp crew was one of the youngest I have seen - and always ready to help with a smile. The food, the comfortable room, the outdoor shower [indoor showers coming as per the manager]… a good spot for the adventurer.

Chiawa Camp

This place was a revelation! Owner-run, with incredible attention to detail. They even had pop-up mirrors in the bathrooms so you could watch wildlife while brushing your teeth! And the toilet situation? Blissfully private! I love my husband, but when nature calls, you don’t need anyone around to hear you answer it 🤣

Oh, and I tested the couch at Chiawa (of course!), and it was perfect. Plus, they had a unique take on the plunge pool. It’s a tub that you fill with water as needed, and then it drains out to water the surrounding area. No wasted water – a massive value-add in my book.

Shout out to my Safari guides:
As with all the camps mentioned here, amazing Safari guides are a given. From Taps in Anabezi Camp to gentleman Sandy at Sungani Lodge, you are in great hands with experienced guides.

Let’s take you to wild Zambia on your next Journey to Africa Safari.

Where to next for your Safari?

Every corner of this magnificent continent offers something unique, and the perfect destination for YOU depends on the kind of adventure you crave.

What’s most important?

• Luxury of space and places-to-stay? Botswana is your go-to. Think private plunge pools, Michelin-star meals under the stars, and the most exclusive camps imaginable. Alternatives are available as well if seeing the Okavango Delta is your goal.

• Authenticity above all else? Tanzania and Kenya are both fantastic options. These countries offer a classic Safari vibe, with incredible wildlife viewing, culture, and a sense of timeless adventure.

• Ultra-unique encounters? Rwanda and Uganda tick this box. These lush, mountainous countries are home to magnificent mountain gorillas. Prepare to be humbled by these gentle giants as you trek your way through forests to get to know them up close.

How do you Safari?

• ‘See-it-all’ adventurer? South Africa’s your match! Combine the Big Five with bustling cities, stunning coastlines, wine country, and a Rainbow Nation of interesting cultures.

• ‘Slow and steady’ explorer? Zambia offers remote wilderness areas, walking safaris, and canoeing along peaceful rivers where you’ll want to linger longer so you can take your time and soak it all in.

What’s on your bucket list?

• Hot air ballooning? Tanzania and Kenya are your place.

• Walking with elephants in the wild or seeing Victoria Falls? Zambia’s your calling.

• Witnessing the Great Migration? Tanzania or Kenya are where it’s at.

• Combining bush, beach, and winery visits? South Africa awaits.

• Gorilla trekking? Rwanda or Uganda are the places to be.

• Staying away from crowds to see gorillas and chimps? Republic of the Congo or Western Tanzania will give you silence.

• Relaxing mokoro rides through winding waterways in the Okavango Delta? Botswana’s best.

Need some help finding your perfect match? Answer these questions and I’ll get back to you with my suggestions for a lovely Journey to Africa Safari.

Top 3 Reasons to Visit the Serengeti in the Green Season

Why Southern Serengeti?

The “green season” refers to the period between November/December to to May - typically when the short rains start until the end of the long rains. Rains in the Serengeti mean vivid colour, new life and rich game. Here are my top 3 reasons to visit the Serengeti during this magical time of year..

Wildebeest and Zebra Migration:
The wildebeest and zebra migration will be roaming this vast space due to the abundance of short nutritious grass that should have sprouted from the short rains that typically start in November. With fresh grass, the animals have food in plenty for themselves and the wee ones that will be born in these plains during the month of January and February.

Every year, the herds birth in these open plains which is a sight to behold. You know who else likes to stay close to the huge herds, the Big Cats. Hobbyists, amateur or pro photographers, listen up. Because of birthing and the ease of food for the big cats, dramatic scenes of hunts are possible. Think cheetahs showing off their full-throttle speed bringing down an adult wildebeest or lionesses working together to tackle a zebra. Calves are easy prey. Graphic I know, but nature.

Don’t worry, it’s not only wildebeest and zebra and big cats that you will see. Elephants, birds galore, antelopes of all kinds, possibly the vicious wild-dogs, jackals, and so much more will be around to make this an amazing Safari.

Dramatic skies:
Thunder, lightning, gloomy dark skies, yup, those are what you have to look forward to when heading on Safari during the ‘rainy’ green season. As much as this is a deterrent for a lot of people, if you are comfortable, sitting back for a bit, and enjoying these experiences, you will be well rewarded with drama from nature. Sometimes you will be on drives during these moments, and others, sit back and enjoy these moments from the lovely places we recommend.

Green lush landscape:
The dry season does have its appeal and moments that are magnificent but the rain does make for green lush landscape. I personally love green spaces - it is an escape from my concrete jungle in Houston. And I do love a good contrast between the wildlife and the landscape.

You don’t have to be restricted to Southern Serengeti if you plan on traveling during these green months. We can take you to Northern and/or Eastern Serengeti - the wildlife is always present and the landscapes glorious as ever. Mix in other parks like elephant-rich Tarangire National Park and wild Ruaha National Park in Tanzania. The possibilities are endless.

These times don’t work for a Safari. No worries.

TImeline of where the Wildebeest MIgration is year round. They never disappear. They are constantly moving from area to area throughout the Serengeti, Tanzania and Masai Mara, Kenya eco-system.

Safari etiquette 101

Your guide is exactly that – the person who’ll lead the way to a safe, memorable Safari. And trust me when I tell you they know the bush (and its inhabitants) like it’s their backyard (because it is!).

In short, if you listen and respect your guide (and share your personal Safari check list with them), you’re in for an African adventure of note. Here are a few golden rules when it comes to Safari guide etiquette.

1. Trust their expertise:
Your guide isn’t just a Safari driver. They’re naturalists, storytellers, ambassadors, and guardians of the wild. Trust their decisions, respect their knowledge, and be open to suggestions. They’ve spent years honing their craft and are passionate about sharing it with you.

2. Active listening is key:
When your guide speaks, truly listen. Absorb their insights about animal behavior, local ecosystems, and cultural traditions. Ask questions to deepen your understanding and engage in meaningful conversations.

3. Respect their boundaries:
Remember, your guide is a professional. Be mindful of their time and energy, and avoid making unreasonable requests, such as going off-road, that could compromise their well-being or the safety of the group.

4. Follow their lead:
As mentioned, your guide is responsible for your safety and the well-being of the wildlife. Always follow their instructions, even if you don't fully understand the reasoning behind it. Their decisions are based on experience and a deep respect for the environment.

5. Open communication is crucial:
If you have specific interests or concerns, don’t hesitate to communicate them with your guide. They’ll do their best to accommodate your preferences while sticking to ethical and eco-conscious practices.

6. Gratitude goes a long way:
A heartfelt “thank you” can make all the difference. Express your appreciation for your guide’s hard work, dedication, and the unique perspective they bring to your safari experience. You might find the relationship you strike up with your guide is the ultimate highlight of your trip, as it is with so many of my guests.
“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

7. Tipping:
In the Safari world, tipping is a way to acknowledge the exceptional service provided by your guide. It’s a gesture of gratitude that goes beyond words, and it’s always appreciated!

And those are the basics! You’re now prepared to make the most of your African escape with your Safari guide by your side. Ready, set, Safari!