If you're in search of inspiration for the ultimate African adventure that captures the very spirit of the classic safari experience, then look no further. Celebrated travel writer and friend of Mahlatini, Sarah Kingdom, embarked on a thrilling trip to Tanzania that serves as the perfect blueprint for your next once-in-a-lifetime journey.
Expertly crafted by our team of Travel Experts, Sarah's itinerary led her through Tanzania's most iconic landscapes and wildlife hotspots. Highlights included the awe-inspiring Ngorongoro Crater which is home to an estimated 25,000 large mammals including rare black rhino and giant-tusked elephants, as well as witnessing one of nature's most astonishing spectacles - the Great Migration in the Serengeti. Sarah also had the privilege of encountering millions of lesser flamingos gracing the shores of Lake Natron who painted the breathtaking landscape in shades of pink.
Get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey as you follow in the footsteps of Sarah Kingdom and delve into the heart of Tanzania's wildlife wonderland below.
First Stop: Lake Natron Camp
Sarah's Tanzanian itinerary began at Lake Natron Camp - a unique, ecological camp offering 10 Bedouin-style tents with 360° views of the striking landscape. Located at the lowest point of the valley in East Africa, at an altitude of 600m (2000 ft) above sea level, Lake Natron was perfectly suited to Sarah who wanted to explore a truly unique environment. On a clear day, you'll see the lake where hundreds of thousands of flamingos come to breed, Ol Doinyo Lengai, the Great Rift Valley, the Ngorongoro Crater, and even Mount Kilimanjaro. Climbing Ol Doinyo Lengai is considered one of the most challenging one-day climbs in East Africa! If you’re ready to take on the challenge you’ll be rewarded with unparalleled views from the top at sunrise.
Why We Love It: During your stay you will be hosted by welcoming staff from the local Maasai village. The camp strives to empower, educate, and employ the local Maasai community.
Second Stop: Ngorongoro Crater Lodge
Next Sarah stayed at "the game lodge at the top of the world". Ngorongoro Crater Lodge lies within the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, which covers more than 8,000 square kilometers of pristine African wilderness. Did you know that the Ngorongoro Crater is the world’s largest intact volcanic crater, also known as a 'caldera'? It is home to an estimated 25,000 large mammals including endangered black rhino, giant tusked elephants, lions, and flamingos who crowd the soda lakes. A highlight for Sarah was watching the sunset to the ambient chants of the local Maasai as their bright red shukkas glowed against the tangerine-hued skyline.
Why We Love It: Ngorongoro Crater Lodge immerses their guests in history, fascinating culture, and a diversity of experiences. You can even indulge in a private picnic feast from your spot on the crater floor.
Final Stop: Serengeti Under Canvas
A classic tented safari experience located in the Serengeti National Park awaited Sarah at her final destination. The Serengeti is home to the annual Great Wildebeest Migration, but witnessing this spectacle is at the hands of Mother Nature. Fortunately for Sarah the Serengeti Under Canvas camp moves five times a year in an attempt to anticipate the movements of the mega-herd. With the camp's flexibility and expert knowledge Sarah found herself in the heart of the action at precisely the right moment and witnessed thousands of wildebeest on the move as they hurled themselves into the unforgiving waters of the Mara River, unfazed by the danger of lurking crocodiles! This was a heart-stopping sighting and one she will never forget.
Why We Love It: Serengeti Under Canvas offers the ultimate digital detox with only the canvas of your tent separating you from the African wilderness. Feast under the stars and fall asleep to the sound of lions roaring.
START YOUR OWN JOURNEY
2023 prices for Sarah’s trip start from $10,406 per person, including 3 nights at Lake Natron Camp, 2 nights at Ngorongoro Crater Lodge and 2 nights at Serengeti Under Canvas on an all-inclusive basis with daily safari camp activities and a day climb up Ol Doinyo Lengai. Includes international flights from JFK, internal flights, and road transfers.
Whether you seek to recreate Sarah's Tanzanian journey or craft a unique experience, our dedicated Travel Experts are ready to plan another one of life's great journeys. Get in touch with our team or use our Trip Planner to map out your travel aspirations.