Travel stories

The hospitality made a deep impression

What was the moment you thought: “Wow, I’ll never forget this”?
Gosh, that’s a tough question… for us, it starts with the anticipation! The Explore Tanzania app, for example. You think: now it’s really happening! But you also get into a jeep at the airport and wonder if that’s really necessary… Until less than five minutes later, the tarmac is gone. Then you know: this is a completely different world. Another moment at the reception of the coffee lodge. Sitting outside… A completely different world. Another such moment: we’re driving towards the Shira Plateau on Kilimanjaro and guide Moses stops along the road and points out a herd of zebras and wildebeest. Right there on the road! We weren’t even on safari yet.

What surprised or touched you about Tanzania?
The animals. So close. So many. Everywhere. We kept track. We saw something new every day. Incredible, more than 100 different animals! The people. So friendly, hospitable, and cheerful. Guide Leonard, who, together with the people from Little Green Camp, had prepared a surprise for us: singing and dancing and a cake for our wedding anniversary.

How did you experience encountering the people and the culture?
It made a deep impression. The hospitality, the guides who shared not only their knowledge but also something of themselves. Their relaxed “pole-pole” attitude. The fun we had together and their delight in our ignorance. Noel, who proudly showed us his chagga land. And cheerfully sang as he demonstrated how to make coffee. Benny, who quietly walked with us across the Shira Plateau and knew everything about the history, the animals, and the plants. The breathtaking cottage at Amini Hillside Retreat. The incredibly sweet people there, the wonderful work they do. The song and dance reception at Little Green Camp.
Spending eight days with Leonard was a privilege. He truly knew everything. You really build a bond together.
Everything made a deep impression on us. We’ll never forget it.

What would you recommend future travelers absolutely not to miss?
Take the time to stand at a waterhole. Watch how the animals carefully scan to see if it’s safe. How they come closer, retreat, and finally stand there together. Take the time to observe and put your camera down every now and then.

What will you take with you from this trip, in your head, heart, and/or travel bag?
The impressive nature. The people. And hopefully a little more “pole pole.”