The trip to Tanzania has been a long one. With over 18 hours spent on grueling flights (especially stressful for me since I get airsick easily) as well as a five-hour layover in Turkey, by the time we landed in Kenya, everyone was ready for a break. Of course, what we got instead was a full day drive across Kenya with a punishing stop at the border where we spent what felt like hours waiting in line. By the time we had finally arrived at our
The flights were long and the sleep was unreachable for me– but my neck pillow was cute!
lodgings for the night, Ecolodge, I was practically hallucinating the buildings appearing at every corner.
The Istanbul Airport: truly a wonderous place.
The trip wasn’t without its silver linings, however. Entering Nairobi at five in the morning was exhausting, but our group was then treated to a lovely sunset breakfast where we made our first animal observations: a pair of pied crows and some splendid starlings. It was a great moment to stop and relax, especially since we were back on the road right after. The wildlife didn’t stop there; as a matter of fact, as soon as we exited the airport, we were greeted by the sight of a giraffe and a group of zebras in the middle of what seemed like a random field. The excitement continued to build as more and more of Africa expanded out in front of us. Having a late lunch at a mall in Arusha was a great time with good food (comped via our course fees, so free according to girl math). Still, the best was yet to come.
After yawn-and-doze-filled drive, the stunning sunset over the African savanna and mountain peaks was a sight truly worth staying awake for. Even once the sun had set, we had reason to remain alert, as we caught glimpses of more wildlife (mostly by benefit of being the second vehicle in line; apologies to the group in the third). We spotted a couple of impala out for a nightly browse and then later came across some dik-dik, which are only a bit bigger than a chihuahua. Sadly, no hyenids or small felids, but it is early yet! Finally, everything culminated in a truly god-send welcome at the Ecolodge, where we were not only provided with warm towels and mango juice upon arrival, but a three-course dinner and some seriously impressive lodging as well. Things are looking up for this trip, and I only have excitement toward what adventures we will have tomorrow.
