Most Inspirational Moment
Two real highlights and one slight disappointment. We did a safari on foot in Lake Nakuru National Park, which I will never forget. We got amazingly close to lots of diverse wildlife, and there really is nothing quite like creeping amongst the trees and suddenly coming face-to-knee with a giraffe! Very knowledgable guides kept us safe, and knew where every single buffalo was before we had even noticed one of them. The second highlight was definitely the Ngorongoro crater. I won't spoil it for you... You just have to experience it for yourself - Comletely mind-blowing! The disappointment was not being able to do the balloon safari in the Serengeti. There's only one company operating balloons, and they only take 32 people per day. So, your chances of doing it are very slim, which isn't clear from the trip notes. Another really great thing about this trip is the sheer amount of "typical Africa" you see. If you've been put off by the amount of driving described inthe trip notes, then I would encouage you not to worry. There is one 10-hour-ish journey, but there's so much to see and you get an excellent view being so high up in the truck.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Moses was very knowledgable, spoke almost perfect English, and was very friendly and helpful. He went out of his way to ensure everything ran smoothly and was always willing to answer questions. You can't ask for more really.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Don't bother taking a mosquito net. You'll want to be in a tent for privacy in the campsites, and for safety (from wildlife) when in the Parks. The tents are completely mosquito proof. However, Deet is your best friend, and if you don't stink of it, particularly during the evenings, expect to be bitten! Take US$ as $50 bills as the exchange rate is better in Tanzania. (Sterling exchange rate is poor, and forget travellers cheques.) You must have a single $50 bill to buy your visa to get into Tanzania; smaller notes are not accepted. Everyone will tell you to get a spare camera battery, and don't ignore them! Power is intermittent and the supply on the truck has limited capacity. There is a strict 15kg weight limit on the flight to Zanzibar, which isn't in the trip notes. We had to pay for excess baggage, but it was only a few dollars. If you're not that keen on camping, don't worry! Most nights you can upgrade to a simple room with a proper bed for around £10. A good headtorch is essential, as you may want to scan around for eye-shine before emerging from your tent at night!
