Exploring Tanzania

Look! A Squirrel!

More specifically, an unstriped ground squirrel (Xerus rutilus), common to the grasslands of East Africa. Ground squirrels like this live lives of solitude in dry areas (hence the name xerus) eating seeds, pods, and leaves. They burrow into the ground, or, in the case of this fellow, find ready habitation in termite mounds. Underground they are safe from predators like raptors, leopards, and jackals.

Logboat

A traditional East African logboat. An outrigger like this is known locally as a Nagalawah. I spoke with its owner yesterday (his father built it). I learned that this particular craft is about seven years old and hewn from a single mango tree trunk. It was modified with a frame of eucalyptus and mangrove poles lashed together with nylon rope.

The nagalawah is the workboat of the east Indian Ocean with a design tradition that goes back a thousand years or more.

It's low tide on the east coast of Zanzibar right now. This one is not going anywhere soon.

"Deer Beast"

This large antelope is commonly referred to as a hartebeest. The label is odd, rising off the Dutch tongue, and means "deer beast." It was likely given by early European settlers in Africa because of its resemblance to the more familiar creature.

In the local language it is a Kongoni.

The Kongoni is long and large for an antelope. A mature male may stand three feet at the shoulder and weigh 300 pounds.

Coffee in the Raw

When these "cherries" are red and slightly soft, they'll be ready for picking.

While Tanzania is not a world leader in coffee production (by volume), it is a key agricultural product for the country. The combination of volcanic soils (Lake Duluti is a crater lake), elevation, and climate makes for some of the best tasting coffee in the world!

Mmmmmmm. Good morning!

Handiwork of our Creator

The more I learn about the spotted hyena (Crocuta crocuta), the more I appreciate this ingenious animal. Yes, they do scavenge, but they also hunt. Yes, they "laugh" and "fuss," but they also communicate using a complicated system of vocalizations. Yes, they look like ugly dogs (or bears?), but are actually in a category of their own.

Studies suggest that hyenas are very intelligent, are creative problem solvers, and work together in groups better than chimpanzees.

Remember this the next time you see this animal presented as greedy, stupid, or criminal. The hyena is a beautiful example of the handiwork of our Creator.

The Roof of Africa

How about a trail view to the "roof of Africa" to brighten your Thursday? Mt Kilimanjaro stands 19,341' above sea level and is one of the famed "7 summits." Despite its intimidating appearance, this dormant stratovolcano is not a technical climb and can be scaled by a hiker in good shape. Part of this amazing African experience is moving through many different biomes on the way to the top. The hike begins in sweltering rainforest but ends in an alpine zone. Lesson? Bring your woolies, but wait to put them on!

Bush Camp, Serengeti

Bush camps like Ang'ata provide a quality lodging for our groups during game drives in the Serengeti. Don't be fooled by the canvas, wood, and bamboo. The service in these camps is wonderful, the food excellent, and the night sky has no rival. All seats for this year's excursions are reserved, but we still have open spots for 2026. Experience God's good creation for yourself.

Shuka Cloth

Herder and herds near Arusha, Tanzania.

Note the plaid on the herder's shoulders. It is the "African blanket" of "shuka" cloth. This colorful wrap is often worn for warmth and identity by members of the Maasai, pastoralists of East Africa.

I captured this image on the way to our first climb of Kilimanjaro a couple of years ago.