Family Adventure in the Ngorongoro Crater

Homeward Bound, But Not Before One Last Look

As our incredible family adventure in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area draws to a close, I find myself filled with a mix of emotions. There's a sense of fulfillment from the extraordinary experiences we've shared, tinged with a bit of sadness that our time in this breathtaking landscape is ending. Today, we savored our final moments, ensuring we soaked in every last bit of Tanzania's magic before heading back to London.

Our final day began with a delightful breakfast at andBeyond Ngorongoro Crater Lodge. The spread was as lavish as the views, and we enjoyed a hearty meal while reminiscing about our favorite moments from the trip [i]. Aisha and I savored the strong Tanzanian coffee, while the kids, Farah and Imani, devoured stacks of pancakes, already planning what they wanted to tell their friends back home. It's these simple family moments, set against such stunning backdrops, that I cherish the most.


Discover unparalleled luxury and stunning wildlife views at andBeyond Ngorongoro Crater Lodge in Tanzania's breathtaking conservation area.

After breakfast, we set out to explore the Ngurdoto Crater, a hidden gem often overshadowed by its larger cousin, the Ngorongoro Crater. This 'mini-Ngorongoro,' as some call it, is located within Arusha National Park and offers a unique perspective on the region's volcanic landscape. The drive there was scenic, passing through lush coffee plantations and small villages, giving us a glimpse into the local way of life. As an archivist, I always appreciate seeing how history and daily life intertwine, and Tanzania offers countless examples of this.


Explore the breathtaking Ngurdoto Crater, a stunning volcanic formation in Tanzania, rich in wildlife and natural beauty perfect for adventurous travelers.

Reaching the rim of Ngurdoto Crater, we were greeted by breathtaking views. The crater floor, a swampy expanse of green, was teeming with wildlife. We spotted herds of buffalo and warthogs grazing peacefully, while colorful birds flitted through the trees lining the crater walls. Farah, with her keen eye for detail, was particularly excited to see a pair of crowned eagles soaring overhead. Imani, ever the inquisitive one, peppered our guide with questions about the crater's formation and the animals that call it home. It was a perfect opportunity for some impromptu lessons on geography and wildlife, something I always enjoy sharing with my children.

The journey may be ending, but the memories will last a lifetime.

Next on our itinerary was a visit to the Ngorongoro Farm House, a charming lodge nestled amidst a working coffee plantation. This was a delightful change of pace from our previous days of intense wildlife viewing. As we drove up to the farmhouse, we were greeted by the sight of lush gardens, colorful flowers, and the aroma of freshly brewed coffee. The kids were immediately captivated by the farm's rustic charm, and Aisha, with her love for all things botanical, was in her element.


Discover the serene beauty and rich wildlife of Tanzania at Ngorongoro Farm House, an idyllic retreat near the Ngorongoro Conservation Area.

We took a guided tour of the coffee plantation, learning about the entire process from bean to cup. It was fascinating to see the coffee plants up close, to hear about the challenges and rewards of coffee farming, and to understand the importance of this crop to the local economy. We even had the opportunity to try our hand at picking coffee beans, a task that proved to be more challenging than we anticipated. I must admit, my fingers aren't quite as nimble as those of the local farmers!

After the coffee tour, we explored the farm's extensive gardens, filled with a variety of fruits, vegetables, and herbs. Aisha was particularly impressed by the organic farming practices, and she peppered the gardener with questions about his techniques. The kids, meanwhile, were busy chasing butterflies and admiring the colorful flowers. It was a lovely, relaxing way to spend the afternoon, and it gave us a chance to connect with nature on a different level.

Lunch at the Ngorongoro Sopa Lodge was a delightful affair. The lodge offered stunning views of the surrounding landscape, and the buffet was a feast of local and international flavors. We savored the delicious food while reflecting on our incredible journey. It was heartwarming to see the kids trying new dishes and expanding their culinary horizons. Travel, after all, is not just about seeing new places, but also about experiencing new cultures and cuisines.


Discover unparalleled views and rich wildlife at Ngorongoro Sopa Lodge, your gateway to Tanzania's stunning Ngorongoro Crater.

In the late afternoon, we made a stop at The Collection by Sha, a local shop in Karatu known for its stylish clothing and accessories. Aisha, with her keen eye for design, was eager to browse the collection. I must admit, shopping isn't usually my favorite activity, but I was pleasantly surprised by the quality and craftsmanship of the items on display. We ended up buying a few souvenirs for friends and family back home, as well as a beautiful scarf for Aisha, adorned with traditional Maasai patterns.


Discover stylish shoes and fashionable clothing at The Collection by Sha in Karatu, Tanzania—a must-visit for all fashion lovers.

As we made our way to the Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge for our final dinner, I couldn't help but feel a sense of gratitude for the incredible experiences we've had over the past 13 days. From the breathtaking views of the Ngorongoro Crater to the thrilling wildlife encounters, from the cultural immersion in Maasai villages to the simple joys of spending time together as a family, this trip has been nothing short of extraordinary.


Experience unparalleled luxury amidst breathtaking views at Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge in Tanzania’s iconic crater.

Dinner at the Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge was a fitting end to our Tanzanian adventure. The lodge's elegant ambiance and delicious food provided the perfect setting for a final celebration. We raised our glasses to toast our incredible journey, to the memories we've made, and to the bonds we've strengthened as a family.

And now, as I sit here writing this blog post, with the sounds of the African night serenading me, I can't help but feel a sense of anticipation for what tomorrow holds. We'll be heading to Kilimanjaro International Airport, ready to board our flight back to London. While I'm eager to return to the comforts of home, I know that a part of me will always remain here, in the heart of Tanzania. This trip has been more than just a vacation; it's been a transformative experience that has enriched our lives in countless ways.

Asante sana, Tanzania. Thank you for the memories, the lessons, and the inspiration. We'll be back.

Tomorrow, we begin our journey back to London, filled with memories and stories to last a lifetime. While there are no specific itinerary items planned for tomorrow, the trip home will undoubtedly be filled with reflections on our incredible adventure and anticipation for sharing our experiences with friends and family. Until next time, Tanzania!