Adventures in Tanzania - what is it like to safari in Africa?
Roy Myhill travelled to Tanzania and gives his account of what it’s like to safari in Africa
What would your normal idea of a holiday be?
Having worked in the travel industry for almost 30 years, I am fortunate enough to be pretty well travelled. I will try anything! If I need to recharge the batteries, I am happy to enjoy a beach holiday and not ashamed to say so! Increasingly though, I want to ‘explore the world’ it may be a ‘forty-something’ thing. In the last couple of years I’ve hiked the Flinders ranges in South Australia, done some white-water rafting in British Columbia and had a week’s sailing around the British Virgin Islands. For me, some time at the end of an active holiday to relax in the sun with a book, is important.
Did the idea of a small group adventure intimidate or excite you?
I work in an amazing industry and love to meet people of all ages from around the world, so I’m never intimidated. I was struck by the number of single people and felt that this was a great way to meet friends, whether you are single or in a couple. My own group had a broad age range-the oldest was 60+ and very funny and youngest in their early 20’s. Everyone got on fine.
Were you nervous of camping in Africa?
Oddly, I was petrified! I thought I had no fear as I will happily ski down a black run despite being an average ability skier and I’ve jumped out of an aircraft before in the name of charity. Somehow though, the sound of animals roaming around outside after the light went, got the adrenaline flowing. Our guide was full of information and very reassuring. I slept soundly the second night and loved the whole experience!
Highlights?
Camping in the Serengeti and the game drive in the Ngorongoro crater-that place was surreal and words cannot describe how beautiful it is. We did see a kill and this was another side of nature which was incredible to witness.
Any suggestions for people contemplating adventure travel/safaris but nervous about taking the plunge?
The ‘Adventure Travel’ tag could, in some ways, put ‘newcomers’ off, so I’d just say that one needs to do some research - look at trip notes, live chat with my team who have probably been there and choose a destination you really want to visit more than any other. Remember too that your adventure does not have to be strenuous unless you choose a more challenging trip and there is often ample opportunity at the end, to relax if you choose to.
Why should people go to Tanzania/on safari with Imaginative Traveller?
Tanzania is an amazing country for wildlife and scenery and the people are friendly too. It feels good to support the local communities and bring much needed revenue to local suppliers too. The Imaginative Traveller product offers great value and flexibility but with a high degree of expertise.
