Unforgettable Tanzanian Journey

Grateful to Benson Safari for arranging a wonderful experience. Commend the quick communication before our trip and the flexibility in creating a personalized itinerary to suit our preferences. Thanks to Mr. Benson, Grace, and Paul Balthasar Ngoty, our driver and guide. 1) Witnessed unforgettable moments at Mara River in Northern Serengeti. Observed several wildebeest crossings across the river on August 20 and 21. From Kenya back to Tanzania. It was early for this season. Loved staying at Aurari tented camp, about 45 minutes from the river (intend to post separate review under Aurari). 2) Enjoyed our stay at Serena lodge in Central Serengeti. 3) Miracle Air balloon ride was incredible… saw lions, elephants, and plenty of deer and zebras (hope to post separate review). 4) Experienced magic again inside Ngorongoro Crater (saw a lioness take down a wildebeest) with a 2-day stay at Serena in Ngorongoro (hope to post separate review). 5) Finished with a visit to a Masai village (hope to post separate review under Paulo Emanyata, name of village, with young Chief Paulo offering a comprehensive tour) on the way back to Arusha and then to Kilimanjaro. Ensure you have quality binoculars and a camera with a powerful zoom lens (400mm). Vegetarian meals are readily available at all lodges and camps. The chefs showed great adaptability and provided delicious Indian vegetarian dishes, even without garlic if preferred. Be ready for rugged terrain (bumpy) with a lot of dust. Exercise patience, rise early, and be punctual with your multiple safari drives. Request lodges pack lunch daily for you; this maximizes your time for observing crossings or enjoying game drives. Amazing country - Tanzania, and wonderful people. Cherished every moment of our stay. Lastly, don't miss buying Napenda (“I like” in Swahili) coffee from Mr. Benson. He owns a coffee farm. Asante sana (picked up some Swahili and locals thought I was native).