News | Mezzaninehttp://www.livethejourney.co.za/blog/2021-01-20T09:15:10+00:00The latest news and updates from Live The Journey.5 Reasons to look forward to our Tanzania Migration Safari2021-01-20T09:15:10+00:00Stella Neethling/blog/author/stella/http://www.livethejourney.co.za/blog/5-reasons-to-look-forward-to-our-tanzania-migration-safari/<p><em>Each year in May, we treat our guests to a life-changing journey to Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park to view the astounding natural spectacle that is the Great Wildebeest Migration. Besides encountering thousands of wildebeest, zebras and gazelle, there are a number of other reasons you should look forward to this incredible experience.</em></p>
<p><strong>Here are our top 5 reasons:</strong></p>
<p><strong>1. Safari dreams come true</strong><br>Besides the boundless plains of the Serengeti, you will also visit the Lake Manyara National Park and the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. With over a thousand species of birds and more than 450 mammal species, Tanzania truly is a nature lover’s paradise. To make the most of your safari, guests are treated to a guaranteed window-seat in specially adapted 4x4 vehicles with pop-up roofs – perfect for game-viewing and photography. Our group is limited to only 12 guests and safari guides share their knowledge with pride and passion.</p>
<p><strong>2. A predator's paradise</strong><br>The Great Migration is the largest overland migration in the world with animals travelling 800 km or more during each annual cycle. It involves over two million wildebeest and zebras, and of course, an astounding array of predators in hot pursuit! While sometimes brutal, it is a natural spectacle as old as time.</p>
<p><strong>3. Meeting the Maasai</strong><br>The Maasai is an intriguing people with a culture dating back hundreds of years. They lead a semi-nomadic life along the edges of the many game parks of the Great African Lakes and their cattle is their greatest pride. With their distinctive customs and colourful dress, it is fascinating to see how they thrive in these wild landscapes.</p>
<p><strong>4. Tree-climbing lions</strong><br>Whether it is to get a better view, catch a bit of the cooling breeze or to escape flying insects at ground level, no-one is entirely sure why these lions adapted to this behaviour. One thing is certain, this unusual sight is one of the highlights of a Tanzanian safari.</p>
<p><strong>5. A room with a view</strong><br>The accommodation throughout your safari offers a luxury retreat after a day filled with adventures. A highlight of the tour is undoubtedly the luxury tented safari camp in the Serengeti National Park. Waking up to a view over the endless grasslands is a true “Out-of-Africa” experience.</p>
<p><em>The annual movement of wildebeest and other grazing herbivores – the Great Migration – is one of the ultimate spectacles in the natural world. Join us as we discover the natural wonders of the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater and Lake Manyara.</em></p>
<p><a href="https://www.livethejourney.co.za/destinations/tanzania/">CLICK HERE</a> for more information</p>Tanzania's Northern Circuit - a must on your safari to-do list2020-09-05T13:23:35+00:00Stella Neethling/blog/author/stella/http://www.livethejourney.co.za/blog/tanzanias-northern-circuit-a-must-on-your-safari-to-do-list/<p><em>We’ve asked Live the Journey consultant, Petro Human, what her favourite safari destination is and the answer came without hesitation: “It has to be Tanzania’s northern safari circuit.”</em></p>
<p>The region includes, amongst others, the Serengeti and Lake Manyara national parks, as well as the Ngorongoro Conservation Area and I am astonished at the great care and effort Tanzanians put into conserving the land and wildlife through the gigantic national parks, most of which have no fences.</p>
<p>They take pride and joy in it – something which is evident when you spend time with the passionate local guides that accompany our guests. Their knowledge is outstanding – they seem to know the name of every bird and plant, and can spot the tree-climbing lions long before you even realise they’re there.</p>
<p>The array and abundance of wildlife is extraordinary. There is, of course, the hundreds of thousands of wildebeest and zebra, eternally migrating in an age-old pattern from south to north following the rains. This natural spectacle is followed by eager predators, always looking for an opportunity to present itself. I don’t think I have ever seen this number of lions, young and old, in one place. Never mind the hyenas, leopards, cheetahs and other scavengers. Add the rest of the animal kingdom such as elephants, giraffe, buffalo, hippos, rhino etc. and countless bird species to this mix and you have the stuff safari dreams are made of!</p>
<p><strong>What was your most memorable moment on this trip?</strong></p>
<p><strong></strong>Without a doubt it was getting my first glimpse of the migration in the Serengeti, and then being completely engulfed by it, moments later.</p>
<p>It is hard to find the words that even begin to describe what you experience and what you are witnessing when even with your binoculars you cannot see the end of it. I felt small and humble and was left speechless at the overwhelming, thunderous sound of the hooves as thousands of wildebeest, zebras and gazelles moved past us. But every moment in the Serengeti is magic really. Just when you think to yourself that that is the best and most indescribable moment I have ever experienced you drive around a bend in the road and the next sighting is even better.</p>
<p>No photo or video can even begin to capture the endless plains and blue skies of the Serengeti or the way it makes you feel, and a sunset here is absolutely priceless!</p>
<p><strong>Do you have any insider tips for anyone wanting to go on safari?</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Time is of no essence in the Serengeti where it is only you and nature… leave your watch in your tent before you leave on safari in the morning, but do remember a good pair of binoculars!</li>
<li>We visited a local traditional Maasai village where the tribes hold fast to their ancestral ways and cultural values. Their lives and livelihood revolve around their cattle. Their blingy accessories and handcrafts are amazing. Not only does it make the perfect memento to bring a piece of the Serengeti home with you but also supports the local community. Just be sure to bring a big suitcase!</li>
<li>The colourful Maasai blankets make for another great souvenir. Your guide will point out the best places to buy these and they are available in an array of colours. I use mine as a picnic blanket or table cloth to brighten up the “braai”.</li>
<li>Tanzanians are known for being friendly and easy-going people, however, it is courteous to always ask permission before photographing people.</li>
<li>If at all possible, a hot air balloon safari over the Serengeti is an absolute must-do activity. While it is expensive, floating above the vast plains allows for a completely unique and unforgettable safari experience. Be sure to book in advance to avoid disappointment.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Live the Journey offers an exclusive, guided, small group tour, namely the <a href="https://www.livethejourney.co.za/tour/tanzania-migration-safari/">Tanzania Migration Safari</a>, in May each year. This is the best time to view thousands of wildebeest and zebras on the plains of the Serengeti.</strong></p>
<p>Please contact us to discuss alternative options, should this group tour not suit your travel schedule. Other options include:</p>
<ul>
<li>A private tour option whereby Live the Journey will compile a programme to accommodate your needs with regards to date, budget and routing.</li>
<li>Join one of the scheduled tours as offered by our travel partners in Tanzania. These tours depart on a regular basis.</li>
</ul>