Safari: Ngorongora Crater (Ndutu Camp)
Plan of the Day: Depart the Ngorongora Crater enjoying a game drive on the way to the Ndutu Camp for two nights.
Our Itinerary: February 2012
14th: Depart Naples, Italy
15th: Arrive Kilimanjaro, Africa *Transport to Arumeru River Lodge, Arusha (adjust for jet lag)
16th-17th: Tarangire National Park
*Stay two nights at the Kikoti Camp
18th: Lake Manyara National Park
*Stay one night Ngorongoro Farm House
19th-21st: Ngorongora Crater
Stay one night Ngorongoro Sopa Lodge
Stay two nights (20th-21st) Ndutu Camp
22nd-23rd: Serengeti National Park
*Stay two nights the Soroi Serengeti Lodge
24th: Depart Serengeti National Park for flight back to Seronera Airstrip and transfer to Kilimanjaro airport
25th: Arrive Naples, Italy
Ngorongora Crater Game Drive
(Heading to Ndutu Camp)
We left the rim of the crater for another game drive on our way to Ndutu camp. The two days in the crater were a vivid testament to the incredible variety of animals, all striving to survive—some hunting, others grazing peacefully—yet the ecosystem remained perfectly balanced. Ngorongora Crater National Park stretches well beyond the rim of the extinct caldera, offering endless opportunities to witness nature in action. A few hours later, we arrived at our destination for the night: our first experience of five-star camping, where luxury meets the wild in the heart of Tanzania.
Leopard Sighting
One of the highlights of our safari was definitely the leopard sighting. Our driver received a tip about a leopard resting in a tree, and we quickly drove to the location. When we arrived, we found ourselves about fourth in line, circling the tree in anticipation. As we rounded the corner, there it was—the leopard, casually resting and soaking up the afternoon sun. By then, the line of jeeps had grown to about a dozen, and the drivers exchanged excited chatter. It was an incredible moment and another unforgettable day in our adventure.
Camp Life - 5 Star Tent Camping
When we booked our safari, I knew we had to experience at least one day camping in the “Bush” with five-star tent accommodations. We dined on fine china, drank from crystal glasses, and used silver utensils, blending luxury with the raw beauty of the wild. Our tents had private bathrooms, and after each game drive, the camp staff made sure the water was preheated, standing patiently outside ready to offer us a hot shower. They were surprised when Karen and I took our showers together efficiently to conserve water. The gentleman was astonished when, after we said we were finished, he replied, "I'm ready for the next one," and I told him, "We’re both finished, thank you." It was a small moment that perfectly captured the unique blend of luxury and respect for nature that defined our safari adventure.
On our second night, a fierce storm rolled through and blew the side of the tent completely against my side of the bed, making for a restless night as I stayed up in the middle of the darkness, checking to ensure no water was seeping inside. Thankfully, everything stayed dry, and by morning we were ready to pack up and head to the Serengeti. As much as we embraced the adventure, I was relieved it was only for two nights—there’s something to be said for the comfort of five-star accommodations, and I was definitely looking forward to returning to that luxury soon.
Game Drive Day 2
On our second day, the game drive was almost a repeat of the usual—more lions, more cheetahs, and more leopards crossing our path. We enjoyed lunch during the drive to avoid the trip back to camp, a routine we were starting to settle into. But as the afternoon rolled in, the skies darkened unexpectedly, and rain began pouring down hard. The water was so deep that I had to carefully pack away my camera gear to keep it dry. Our driver, Anthony, struggled to see the road through the sheets of rain. He couldn't roll his window down much without water flooding into the Jeep. He was constantly checking the siphon and air filter to keep the vehicle running in these tough conditions. Eventually, we had to radio camp for backup, and another driver came out to help us safely navigate back through the flooded trails. Another day of adventures in the life of the Matthiae’s.
Buzzards
Buzzards enjoying a water buffalo
Birds
Today was another great day for bird watching. We spotted more species than ever before, each one bursting with vibrant colors that took our breath away. From brilliant blues to bright whites, the variety seemed endless. Every sighting felt like a new page in our adventure, reminding us why we love exploring the world together.
