“May this be the end of nothing and the beginning of something”

We have just returned from our first safari reserved through National Geographic/Bushtrack Expeditions who arranged it through Nomad Tanzania. Incredibly wonderful describes our 8 day journey with Ian Kiwelu and Ole Masaa K John, native guides with a superb knowledge of the Tanzanian animals, plants, landscape and culture. They were extremely willing to answer any questions and volunteer a tremendous amount of information.  We were able to observe all the animals in the areas we traveled and learn about their individual behaviors. All the years of schooling and field experience that Ian and Masaa had to become the wonderful guides that they are was very apparent during our many drives. Their patience presented us with the best that Tanzania has to offer.

All the accommodations - Lamai Serengeti, Kusini Camp and Gibbs Farm - had the most welcoming and attentive staff, beautiful rooms, great locations and fantastic food! The hosts could not have been better - we dined nightly with Nic and Jana (Lamai), spent time at the campfire with Chris and Deborah (Kusini). 

We were very fortunate to observe two lions kill a widerbeest 20 feet from our vehicle. Masaa's keen observation and patience provided this rare opportunity. The  wilderbeest migration was everywhere in the south and we had our breakfast right smack in the middle of it all! Ian found us two lions mating. We were able to see the Big Five! The Masai Boma was a very interesting stop. We loved learning about the culture and were very lucky to have Masaa educate us in their ways. 

Our stay at Gibbs Farm allowed us a day to rest , enjoy a massage and learn about the farm. We visited the Crater and Lake Manyara from there as well.

Upon looking back over the entire trip, I must say that everyone we encountered was terrific. All the arrangements that were made on our behalf were executed professionally. The scenery and the wildlife more than met our expectations. No matter how much we see on TV, there is nothing like the real thing!  But I have to accentuate that the guides, Ian and Masaa, were the absolute finest. We spent a lot of time together and we were extremely fortunate and grateful to have such warm, caring, knowledgable, articulate, pleasant individuals who seem to really love what they do and do it well. 

Masaa left us with lovely words: May this be the end of nothing and the beginning of something.

Thank you soooo mcuh for everything!