Just Back: Kenya, Tanzania + Indian Ocean Islands
By Darren Humphreys
All of Africa is beautiful and each corner has a mesmerizing component. In East Africa, this component is wide open plains and Tanzania’s Serengeti is renowned for endless plains and wide open vistas…do we ever need those right now? The vast Grumeti Reserve is a private concession managed by Singita. Lodging, cuisine, service, and experience here are of the highest order - think safari chic! The scale of the wildlife on display was staggering, compounded by the fact that it was mating season! A couple of highlights were rare tree-climbing lions, a cheetah kill, mating giraffe, lions, and elephants, discovering Maestro wine at a private tasting, and being the first ever to play pickleball in the Serengeti. The Ngorongoro Crater served up some of the best hiking experiences I have enjoyed, fueled by organic food and coffee from the ultra-fertile valleys around Karatu. Of course, Kilimanjaro is ready for serious hikers, whether you wish to summit or just reach the first couple of camps. Bear in mind that demand is outstripping supply for this type of travel …
It bears highlighting that the Grumeti, and safari in general, is ideally suited to multi-generational or small group travel. Caitlin and I shared our recent journey in Tanzania with two families of clients and the experience was greatly enhanced. The group can take game drives together or in separate vehicles (or some of each), meals can be taken either as a communal group or split into private venues, and in between game drives some may wish to nap, others go to the gym, and others have a wine tasting or walking safari. Times together bring a special type of bonding, fresh perspectives, and many laughs. Times apart allow for everyone to march the beat of their own drum, relish downtime and enjoy romantic moments. The perfect balance for a combination group of introverts and extroverts and/or a range of ages and interests!
We highly recommend time on the islands after a mainland Safari, and in this regard, East Africa has myriad options. Zanzibar is a true melting pot - a crossroads of Swahili, Arabian, European, and Asian cultures. From textiles to spices, to decor, to personalities, the island is a vibrant pop of color. The dining experiences are the best we have experienced on any island. Aside from all things ocean - beach, diving, kitesurfing, dhow cruises, the private island Mnemba - there are visits to spice farms and the intoxicating Stone Town. From October to March every year there is no better place in the world to swim with whale sharks so for lovers of these creatures - and lovers of private island hideaways - I highly recommend nearby Thanda Island.