Travel stories

In Southern Tanzania, the wildlife is yours alone

What was the moment you thought: “Wow, I will never forget this”?

We will never forget this entire journey, from beginning to end. But if we had to choose one highlight:

In Ruaha National Park, we woke up at 3:30 AM to the sound of giraffes feeding right next to our tent. We were so glad we had left the tent as open as possible. It was an incredible sight. To our surprise, they were still there hours later, just a few meters away. And they were sitting — which means they felt safe, as giraffes usually only sleep briefly while standing. Being that close to wildlife was truly overwhelming.

But even more spectacular was what happened after dinner. The guard suddenly called out: “Come, come — a leopard!” We followed him on foot, in the dark, tracking a leopard that was hunting an antelope. We saw the leopard twice… and then, right behind it, a hyena. Unbelievable.

What surprised or touched you most about Tanzania?

We had visited the northern parks before, but this was our first time in the south. What surprised us most:

• At our very first camp in Tarangire National Park, we saw an elephant just 15 minutes after arrival — only five meters from our tent.
• And then the southern parks: the peace, the vastness, the overwhelming nature. It truly feels like you have the wildlife all to yourself.

How did you experience the encounters with people and culture?

The friendliness, hospitality and calmness of the Tanzanian people stood out immediately (although in Arusha it is a bit busier).

Our guide Mo made a special impression. He was incredibly kind and enthusiastic, but also extremely knowledgeable about wildlife, nature and culture. His passion made the experience even richer.

What would you recommend future travellers not to miss?

In the north, Tarangire really surprised us — what a beautiful park.

But the southern parks are something you truly should experience at least once. This is where you feel the essence of safari: the tranquility, the untouched landscapes and the rich, abundant nature. Absolutely stunning.

What do you take home from this journey, in your head, heart or suitcase?

The African landscape. The incredible beauty of nature, the remarkable trees, and the sheer diversity and number of animals.

We already know we want to come back. To experience it all again, and to see the southern parks in a different season.

Tanzania has found its way into our minds, our thoughts and our hearts. We feel incredibly privileged to have experienced this.