Family Adventure in the Ngorongoro Crater

Serengeti Dreams

Today was nothing short of magical. As an archivist, I spend my days surrounded by the echoes of the past, but today, in the Serengeti, I felt utterly present, immersed in the vibrant, pulsating heart of Africa. It was a day of breathtaking landscapes, unforgettable wildlife encounters, and the kind of shared moments with my family that I know we'll treasure for years to come.

Our day began, as most do on safari, before the sun had fully stretched its golden fingers across the horizon. We enjoyed an early breakfast at the Ngorongoro Sopa Lodge, fueling up for the adventures that lay ahead. The lodge was buzzing with anticipation, fellow travelers eager to witness the Serengeti's wonders. After a hearty meal, we set off towards the Serengeti main gate, the official portal into this vast wilderness.


Explore the Serengeti Main Gate, your gateway to a remarkable wildlife adventure in Tanzania's iconic national park, teeming with stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife.
The drive itself was an experience. Leaving the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, the landscape gradually transformed. The lush, green highlands gave way to the seemingly endless plains of the Serengeti. As we approached the Serengeti main gate, the excitement in our vehicle was palpable. Even Imani, usually glued to his devices, was craning his neck, eager to spot the first signs of wildlife. The air was crisp and cool, a welcome change from the warmer temperatures we had experienced earlier in the trip. May in the Serengeti offers pleasant temperatures during the day, although it can get chilly in the mornings and evenings.

Entering the Serengeti National Park felt like stepping into another world.


Explore the stunning Serengeti National Park, home to the Great Migration and diverse wildlife, in the heart of Tanzania's breathtaking wilderness.
The sheer scale of the place is difficult to comprehend. As far as the eye can see, golden grasslands stretch towards the horizon, dotted with acacia trees and rocky outcrops known as kopjes. And everywhere, life teems. We were immediately greeted by herds of zebras and wildebeest grazing peacefully, seemingly unperturbed by our presence. It was a truly awe-inspiring sight. The famous Great Migration involves over two million wildebeest, zebras, and other herbivores, and to witness even a fraction of that is something I will never forget.

The Serengeti is not just a park; it's a feeling, an experience that imprints itself on your soul.

Our morning game drive was a symphony of wildlife encounters. We spotted a pride of lions lounging lazily under the shade of an acacia tree, their cubs playfully batting at each other. We watched a cheetah gracefully stalk a gazelle, its movements fluid and mesmerizing. We marveled at the towering giraffes, their elegant necks reaching for the highest leaves. And we were captivated by the elephants, their gentle giants moving with a quiet dignity. Each sighting was a gift, a glimpse into the intricate web of life that thrives in this remarkable ecosystem. I found myself reaching for my camera constantly, trying to capture the beauty of each moment, knowing full well that no photograph could ever truly do it justice. Even Farah, who usually prefers cityscapes and portraits, was completely engrossed, snapping photos with her phone and excitedly sharing them on social media.

For lunch, we headed to The Highlands, Ngorongoro for lunch.


Experience luxury and nature intertwined at The Highlands in Ngorongoro - your gateway to Tanzania's incredible wildlife and stunning landscapes.
The camp’s unique geodesic dome design was fascinating, and the interiors were very beautifully furnished. The service was impeccable and the food was great. Aisha was particularly impressed with the design of the tents, noting how they managed to blend luxury with the natural environment so seamlessly. The log fireplaces were a perfect touch, and it was easy to imagine how cozy they would be on a cold evening. The communal dinner served in a large dining room was also a great experience, and it was fun to watch Masai dancing and singing by the camp’s employees.

After lunch, we continued our exploration of the Serengeti. As the afternoon wore on, the light softened, casting a warm glow over the landscape. We came across a watering hole teeming with life. Hippos wallowed contentedly in the muddy water, their eyes peeking above the surface. Birds of all shapes and sizes flitted around the edges, taking advantage of the abundant water source. And in the distance, we spotted a lone rhino, a rare and precious sight. It was a scene of perfect harmony, a reminder of the delicate balance that exists in nature. I couldn't help but feel a sense of responsibility, a desire to protect this incredible place for future generations.

As the sun began to dip below the horizon, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink, we made our way to the Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge for dinner.


Experience unparalleled luxury amidst breathtaking views at Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge in Tanzania’s iconic crater.
The lodge is built on the rim of the Ngorongoro Crater, and its natural stone and ivy-covered walls blend in with its surroundings. We enjoyed a delicious meal, savoring the flavors of Tanzania while recounting the day's adventures. The lodge offers panoramic views of the Ngorongoro Crater, and the atmosphere is relaxed and candle-lit. The staff were incredibly accommodating, and the food was outstanding. The Maasai tribe also gave a dance presentation before dinner in the evenings, which was a fantastic experience.

After dinner, I decided to visit the Ngorongoro Pub for a nightcap.


Discover Ngorongoro Pub, a lively bar in Dar es Salaam that captures the essence of Tanzanian nightlife with refreshing drinks and a vibrant atmosphere.
It was a cozy and inviting space, perfect for unwinding after a long day of game drives. I struck up a conversation with a fellow traveler, a wildlife photographer from Germany, and we shared stories of our adventures in Africa. It was fascinating to hear his perspective on the Serengeti, and I learned a great deal about the challenges of capturing wildlife on film. As I sipped my drink, I reflected on the day's events, feeling grateful for the opportunity to experience the magic of the Serengeti with my family.

Looking ahead to tomorrow, we will explore the Ngurdoto Crater and the Ngorongoro Farm House [If last day of trip, merge in “Trip end”]. I am eager to see what new wonders await us. I know that each day in Tanzania is a precious gift, a chance to connect with nature, with each other, and with the rich cultural heritage of this incredible country. As I drifted off to sleep, I could still hear the sounds of the African night – the distant roar of a lion, the chirping of crickets, the gentle breeze rustling through the trees. It was a lullaby that I will carry with me long after we leave this magical place.

This trip has been an extraordinary experience, not just for the incredible wildlife and landscapes, but also for the chance to connect with my family in a new and meaningful way. Away from the distractions of modern life, we have been able to truly appreciate each other's company, sharing laughter, stories, and unforgettable moments. I am so grateful for this opportunity, and I know that the memories we are creating here will stay with us forever.

As an archivist, I am used to preserving the past, but here in the Serengeti, I am living in the present, creating memories that will become our family's own precious history. And that, I realize, is the greatest treasure of all.