Exploring Tanzania

Shooting Big Game: Why the Nikon 200-500mm is a Safari Game Changer

Extending my photographic reach into a herd of elephant on the Tanzanian Serengeti.

Shooting Big Game on Safari: The Gear That Actually Works

I’m officially done trying to capture the majesty of the African wilderness with gear that isn't built for the job. To get those professional-grade shots, I’ve hit the reset button with a used setup from the experts at PROCAM Photo & Video Gear in Cincinnati, Ohio.

My new “big game” kit consists of a Nikon D7500 DSLR paired with the Nikkor 200-500mm f/5.6 lens. If you want to elevate your wildlife photography, this is one way to do it.

The Body: Nikon D7500

While the D7500 has new tricks for this old dog to master, the transition from my old Nikon D70 (may it rest in peace!) was seamless. The D7500 a digital, reliable workhorse, but the real magic happens at the end of the mount.

The Difference Maker: Nikon 200-500mm f/5.6 Lens

This lens is the ultimate "reach" tool for birds and elusive game.

  • Intuitive Handling: The rings are smooth for manual framing.

  • Speed & Stability: The quiet autofocus motor and Vibration Reduction (VR) technology are lifesavers when the vehicle is idling or animals are on the move.

  • The Reality Check: It’s heavy and slow. For long game drives, I highly recommend a filled camera beanbag to rest the lens on the vehicle's roof. Also, at f/5.6, it requires some ISO finesse during those golden hour low-light situations.

    I’d love to go faster and lighter, but that gets real expensive.

Serengeti, be warned: I’m armed, ready, and the results will speak for themselves.

Expand Your Wildlife Skills:

Special thanks to Les Riley for the photo!

Why do Zebras Hug?

A pair of zebras practice reciprocal resting in the Serengeti National Park, Tanzania.

Survival strategy

While it looks like a cozy zebra hug, this behavior is a clever survival strategy designed for the harsh African savannah. Specialists call it “reciprocal resting.”

Here is why zebras stand chin-to-back:

  • 360-Degree Vigilance: By facing in opposite directions, a pair of zebras creates a complete lookout system to spot predators like lions or hyenas from any angle.

  • Rest for Tired Necks: Standing all day is exhausting. Resting their heavy heads on a mate’s back allows them to relax their neck muscles while remaining upright and ready to bolt if needed.

  • Social Bonding: This physical closeness is a key form of social grooming and interaction, helping to reinforce the trust and strong bonds within their family units.

  • Insect Defense: In this position, their tails are near each other’s faces, allowing them to swat away biting flies and other annoying insects for one another.

Just as we hold hands for connection and security, zebras lean on each other to stay safe and connected in the wild. Ok, the parallel is not exact, but it warms the heart, doesn’t it?

Experience the Magic of the Serengeti

Nothing compares to seeing these social bonds in person. Witness the Great Migration and the unique behaviors of Africa's iconic wildlife up close.

  • Safari 2026 - Reservations closed. All seats taken.

  • Safari 2027 - Details TBA. Email us here to receive notification when registration opens.

The Unstriped Ground Squirrel: A Savannah Hermit

Close-up of an unstriped ground squirrel (Xerus rutilus) near a termite mound in East Africa.

Look, a squirrel!

More specifically, an unstriped ground squirrel (Xerus rutilus). This little fella is a small but mighty resident of the East African grasslands. Unlike its more social cousins, this species is a master of the "solitary life," a trait reflected in its genus name, Xerus, which stems from the Greek word for “dry.”

A Life Adapted to the Arid Wild:

  • Diet of the Drylands: To survive in parched environments, these squirrels are efficient foragers, dining on a mix of seeds, pods, and leaves found across the savanna.

  • Clever Habitation: While they are expert burrowers, they are also opportunists. You’ll often find them taking up residence in abandoned termite mounds, using these sturdy structures as ready-made fortresses.

  • Safety in the Deep: Going underground isn't just about shade; it's a critical defense. Their deep burrows keep them safe from high-altitude raptors and stealthy predators like leopards and jackals.

  • A Unique Look: True to its name, Xerus rutilus is the only member of its genus that lacks the distinctive side stripes seen on other African ground squirrels, sporting a solid, tawny coat instead.

Spot Them on Safari

These "savannah hermits" are a delight to watch as they dash between shrubs or stand tall on their hind legs to scan the horizon. Join us for for a look yourself.

2026 Update: Our February expedition is officially SOLD OUT. All seats are taken!

Planning for 2027? Don't miss out on the next adventure. Email us here to get exclusive updates and be the first to know when 2027 reservations open.

The Ngalawa: Zanzibar’s Ancient Mango-Wood Workboat

A traditional Zanzibari Ngalawa outrigger boat resting on the sand at low tide, East Coast Zanzibar.

It’s currently low tide on the east coast of Zanzibar, and this traditional craft isn't going anywhere soon.

This is a Ngalawa (also spelled Nagalawah), the quintessential workboat of the East Indian Ocean. Its design tradition is a living history, stretching back over a thousand years.

Crafting a Legend:

  • The Hull: This specific boat is seven years old, meticulously hewn from a single mango tree trunk.

  • The Build: While the hull is a solid piece of fruitwood, the frame is a rugged hybrid of eucalyptus and mangrove poles, lashed together with durable nylon rope.

  • Family Heritage: Hand-built by the owner’s father, this Ngalawa represents a generational skill passed down through Zanzibari families.

A Thousand Years of Design

The Ngalawa is distinguished by its dual outriggers, which provide stability in the turquoise waters of the Tanzanian archipelago. It remains the primary vessel for local fishermen, proving that some designs are so perfect they don't need to change for a millennium.

Plan Your 2027 Adventure

Want to walk the white sands of Zanzibar and see these historic vessels up close? Maybe go for a sail?

2026 Status: All seats are officially SOLD OUT.
2027 Waitlist: We are now scouting for our next expedition. Email us here to get on the priority list for 2027 updates!

Scent of the Islands: A Day on a Zanzibar Spice Tour

What happens on a Zanzibar Spice Tour? This group found out!

Zanzibar isn't just about white sands and turquoise waters—it's a sensory journey that earned it the nickname “Spice Island.” A Zanzibar Spice Tour is an essential rite of passage for any traveler wanting to uncover the island's aromatic soul.

What to Expect

Most tours take place in the lush plantations of Kizimbani Village, just a short drive from Stone Town. You won’t just be looking at plants; you’ll be:

  • Tasting & Smelling: Guess the scent of fresh cinnamon bark, scratch-and-sniff turmeric roots, and taste exotic fruits like jackfruit, soursop, and custard apple right off the tree.

  • Learning the "Why": Discover how cloves—Zanzibar's most famous export—were once more valuable than gold.

  • Seeing the "How": Watch local "Butterfly Men" scale towering coconut trees while singing traditional Swahili songs like Hakuna Matata.

The Full Experience

A typical half-day excursion often ends with:

  1. Palm Weaving: Guides often craft intricate hats, ties, or jewelry out of palm leaves for you to wear.

  2. Authentic Lunch: Many tours include a traditional Swahili lunch featuring Pilau rice, seasonal vegetables, and fish, all seasoned with the very spices you just learned about.

  3. Shopping: You can buy freshly packaged, organic spices like vanilla pods, nutmeg, and handmade soaps to take home.

Quick Tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes: You’ll be walking on uneven, sometimes muddy plantation paths.

  • Carry cash: While you can buy spices at the farm, some travelers find better deals at the Darajani Market in Stone Town.

  • Stay Hydrated: The tropical humidity is real, so bring water, though you'll likely be offered fresh coconut water during the tour.

Ostrich Gangs: Why Young Males Stick Together

Ostriches Have Their Reasons: Why Juveniles Group Together

Unlike adult male ostriches of the Segengeti (Struthio camelus massaicus) which are highly competitive, young male ostriches are often found in small groups. This is done primarily to increase their chances of survival during the transitional period before they reach sexual maturity (around age 3 or 4).

The Benefits of Ostrich “Bachelor Flocks”

  • Predator Detection: “More eyes” to spot threats like lions or leopards in the open ground.

  • Social Learning: Juveniles follow older or more experienced birds to learn how to forage for food (like seeds, insects, small reptiles) and navigate their environment.

  • Protection in Numbers: In large herds (which can sometimes reach 100 individuals outside of breeding season!), the individual risk of being targeted by a predator is lower. It helps when you can run more than 40 mph too!

  • Lack of Territory: Unlike mature alpha males who establish and defend specific territories, young males are not yet competitive for mates and can peacefully coexist in these nomadic "bachelor" or mixed-age flocks.

We came upon these three juveniles on the Serengeti, Tanzania.

Ostrich watch on Safari

Ostriches are a highlight of any Tanzania wildlife tour. And despite the old myth, you’ll never see one with its head in the sand! They are fast, alert, and fascinating to observe in their natural habitat.

2026 Update: Our February expedition is officially SOLD OUT. All seats are taken!

Planning for 2027? Don't miss out on the next adventure. Email us here to get exclusive updates and be the first to know when 2027 reservations open.

Elephants on Parade: Why they gather at the Tarangire River

Big ones, small ones, fat ones, tall ones. Must have seen 100 elephants along the Tarangire River yesterday. Yowza!

Why are there so many elephants in Tarangire?

One answer is that the park serves as a refuge for an annual migration. Thousands of elephants move into Tarangire from surrounding areas like Lake Manyara and the Maasai Steppe. During peak months (June-October), you can witness herds of up to 300 individuals congregating in a single area.

See the tarangire parade for yourself

African bush elephants (Loxodonta africana) are a delight to watch as they lumber along, dig for water, bathe, or break small trees. You really need to see them to believe their size and power.

2026 Update: Our February expedition is officially SOLD OUT. All seats are taken!

Planning for 2027? Don't miss out on the next adventure. Email us here to get exclusive updates and be the first to know when 2027 reservations open.

Why the Superb Starling is Superb

Close-up of a Superb Starling with iridescent blue feathers and white breast band near Mount Kilimanjaro.

Arrival at Kilimanjaro: Meet My First Subject

Arrived at Kilimanjaro safely today. Trying to stay awake by playing with a new (used) camera body, lens, and a Superb starling (Lamprotornis superbus)!

You might wonder: why is this bird officially “Superb”? After spending an hour tracking one through the lens, the answer is clear.

It’s All About the Color

The iridescent plumage is breathtaking. Flashes of metallic blue, black, and green meet the eye at every turn. Because their color comes from the structure of their feathers rather than pigments, the sheen across their chest, back, and wings seems to shift and transform depending on how the sunlight hits it.

  • The “Necklace”: Unlike their look-alike cousins, adults have a distinct white breast band that separates their shimmering blue chest from a fiery orange belly.

    Note: For more on their look-alikes, see our post “Hildebrandt’s Starling: The Colorful African Cousin of the Common Starling”

  • Piercing Eyes: They sport striking creamy-white eyes that give them a sharp, alert, and slightly mischievous expression.

Personality & Attitude

These birds aren’t just eye candy; they are incredibly social and smart. They live in large, chatty flocks and are famously unafraid of humans, often hopping around picnic sites or safari vehicles with bold curiosity. They are the perfect “welcoming committee” for any African expedition.

See the Superb Starling for Yourself

You really need to see one in person to believe the intensity of their colors. They are living, flying gemstones of the savanna.

2026 Update: Our February expedition is officially SOLD OUT. All seats are taken!

Planning for 2027? Don't miss out on the next adventure. Email us here to get exclusive updates and be the first to know when 2027 reservations open.

The Common Warthog: He’s got Chops

A Common Warthog in the weeds, Tanzania.

If the Superb Starling is the gemstone of Kilimanjaro (see our post here), the Common Warthog (Phacochoerus africanus) is the ultimate sidekick. Pumba (or Pumbaa in Swahili, meaning “foolish” or “carefree”) isn’t winning any beauty pageants, but he’s got chops. He’s perfectly adapted for the rugged African bush.

Built for the Scuffle

Those namesake “warts” aren't skin growths—they’re thick pads of fibrous tissue designed to protect a male’s face during tusky tusks-to-tusk combat.

  • The Gear: They carry two sets of tusks. The upper ones curve impressively, but it’s the razor-sharp lower tusks that do the real work when defending against predators.

“Tail Up, Knees Down”

Warthogs have two signature moves that make them a fan favorite:

  1. The Radio Antenna: When they bolt, their tails fly straight up. It’s a high-speed “follow me” signal so piglets don't get lost in the tall golden grass.

  2. The Prayer Position: Because of their short necks and long legs, they actually kneel on their wrists to graze on short grass or dig for delicious tubers.

Savanna Spa Day

You’ll rarely find a clean warthog. They are obsessed with mud wallowing, which serves as a natural sunscreen and parasite repellent. It’s a practical look for a practical animal.

Quirky Pumba

You really need to see these little “tanks” in person to appreciate their speed and quirky personality.

2026 Update: Our February expedition is officially SOLD OUT. All seats are taken!

Planning for 2027? Don't miss out on the next adventure. Email us here to get exclusive updates and be the first to know when 2027 reservations open.

The Kongoni: Africa’s Unique "Deer Beast"

Male Kongoni antelope on the African savannah, Tanzania.

The Hartebeest, or Kongoni, as it is known locally, is one of the most recognizable yet strangely named antelopes on the African savannah.

Why is it called a Hartebeest?

The name "Hartebeest" has a curious origin. It stems from the Dutch settlers in South Africa, translating literally to “deer beast.” Because the animal’s elongated face and tall stature reminded early Europeans of the deer back home, the name stuck—even though the Hartebeest is a true antelope, not a deer at all.

Key Physical Characteristics

The Kongoni (Alcelaphus buselaphus) is notable for its sloping back and incredibly long face. Here are a few quick facts about their size:

  • Height: A mature male stands approximately 4 feet (1.2 meters) at the shoulder.

  • Weight: They are heavy-bodied, often weighing up to 300–350 pounds.

  • Appearance: They possess distinctive, lyre-shaped horns and a high, pointed forehead.

  • Subspecies: While somewhat controversial, 8 subspecies have been identified. These differ slightly in color, horn shape and distribution across Africa. Coke’s Hartbeest is best known in Tanzania and Kenya.

For the image of a juvenile, see our post Coke’s Hartebeest: The Serengeti’s High-Speed Survivor.

Wildebeests of the Ngorongoro Crater: Why they Never Leave

A herd of wildebeests loitering on the floor of the Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania.

While their cousins are famous for the Great Migration circuit, the wildebeests of the Ngorongoro Crater have a different strategy: they never leave.

A Resident Population

Unlike the massive herds that trek between Tanzania and Kenya, the crater is home to a resident population of roughly 7,000 to 10,000 wildebeests. Because the crater floor offers permanent water sources and lush, nutrient-rich volcanic soil year-round, these Gnus have no reason to risk the treacherous journey across crocodile-infested rivers.

Life in a “Fishbowl”

Living inside the world’s largest intact volcanic caldera is like living in a natural amphitheater. The 2,000-foot-high walls create a self-contained ecosystem where survival is a daily drama.

  • The “Gnu” Chorus: The distinctive low grunting or "Gnu-ing" of thousands of wildebeests is the constant soundtrack of the crater floor.

  • Dense Predator Presence: Because the prey stays put, so do the predators. The crater has one of the highest densities of lions and spotted hyenas in Africa, meaning the wildebeests are always under a watchful eye.

The "Overspill" Guest Stars

While the crater has its own permanent residents, it does get visitors. During the calving season (January to March), hundreds of thousands of migratory wildebeests mass on the nearby Ndutu plains just outside the crater to give birth. Occasionally, some of these migratory herds "overspill" into the crater itself, briefly swelling the local population before heading north again.

Nature’s Landscapers

Wildebeests are essential to the crater’s health. By grazing the tall grass down, they make the landscape suitable for other species like zebras and gazelles. Their movement also helps circulate nutrients back into the soil, keeping the “Garden of Eden” green and vibrant.

Why do birds Hitchhike on Big Game in Africa?

Wattled Starlings hitch a ride on the back of a zebra.

If you look closely at the big game of East Africa, you’ll notice they rarely travel alone. Birds often hitch rides on the backs of zebras, buffalo, and wildebeests for a high-protein “free meal.”

A Symbiotic Snack

The birds in this shot—likely immature or female Wattled Starlings (Creatophora cinerea)—are expert opportunists. As the heavy mammals move through the grass, they stir up a cloud of tasty treats.

Look closer at the photo: those tiny specks in the air aren't dust on my lens! Those are flying insects flushed out of the brush, providing an easy buffet for our feathered friends. In exchange for the ride, the starlings often help their hosts by picking off annoying ticks and parasites. It’s the ultimate win-win.

See the Drama for Yourself

There is nothing like witnessing these small details of the savanna in person. From the “gnu-ing” of the wildebeests to the mid-air hunts of the starlings, every moment is a masterclass in design.

Hitch a ride to Africa with us in 2026 or 2027! Whether you're a birdwatcher, a photographer, or just a lover of adventure, our next safari is calling.

Waking Up in Arusha: The Secret to Tanzania’s World-Class Coffee

Cherries ripening on a coffee bush branch near Lake Duluti in Tanzania.

From Bean to Brew: The Secret Behind Tanzanian Coffee

There is nothing quite like the smell of fresh coffee in the morning, especially when you know exactly where it came from. In the lush highlands of Tanzania, the journey begins with these vibrant coffee cherries. When they turn a deep red and feel slightly soft to the touch, they are ripe and ready for picking.

Why Tanzania Produces World-Class Coffee

While Tanzania may not be the world’s largest coffee producer by volume, it is a global contender for best-tasting coffee. The secret lies in the geography:

  • Volcanic Soil: Our latest stop at Lake Duluti—a volcanic crater lake—showcases the nutrient-rich soil that gives the beans their complex flavor profile.

  • Ideal Elevation: The high altitudes of the Arusha region provide the perfect cool climate for slow-ripening beans.

  • The Perfect Climate: A balance of tropical sun and seasonal rains ensures the cherries develop that signature acidity and sweetness.

A Key to the Local Economy

Coffee isn't just a morning ritual here; it is a vital agricultural pillar for Tanzania. Small-scale farmers work tirelessly to harvest these beans, ensuring that every cup you drink supports local communities and sustainable farming practices.

Mmmmmmm. Good morning! There’s nothing like sipping a fresh brew while looking out over the very fields where it was grown.

Redefining the Spotted Hyena: Nature’s Misunderstood Genius

A spotted hyena in Ngorongoro crater, showcasing its unique features and powerful build.

The more I learn about the Spotted Hyena (Crocuta crocuta), the more I appreciate this ingenious animal. Far too often, they are cast as the “villains” of the savanna, but the reality is much more fascinating.

Myth vs. Reality

We’ve all seen the movies where hyenas are presented as greedy, stupid, or even “criminal.” It’s time to look past the Hollywood tropes and see the handiwork of our Creator in these remarkable creatures.

  • More Than Scavengers: While they are famous for scavenging, spotted hyenas are actually highly skilled apex predators that hunt the majority of their own food.

  • The “Laugh” is a Language: That famous “laugh” or “fuss” isn't a joke—it’s part of a highly complex system of vocal communications used to coordinate the clan.

  • Neither Dog nor Cat: They might look like ugly dogs or small bears, but hyenas are in a biological category of their own (Hyaenidae), more closely related to mongooses and civets than to canines.

The Einstein of the Savanna?

Recent studies have turned the scientific world on its head regarding hyena intelligence. Research suggests that spotted hyenas:

  • Are incredibly creative problem solvers.

  • Exhibit social cooperation and teamwork skills that, in some tests, outperform chimpanzees.

  • Live in highly organized "clans" with complex social hierarchies.

A Beautiful Design

The next time you see a hyena on a safari or in a documentary, remember that you aren't looking at a lowly scavenger. You are looking at a brilliant, social, and essential part of the African ecosystem.

God doesn't make mistakes—and the spotted hyena is a testament to the diversity and intelligence woven into the natural world.

To learn more about the Spotted hyena, see our post, Ngorongoro's Matriarchs: The Secret Society of Spotted Hyenas

Mt Kilimanjaro: The Roof of Africa

Need a little mid-week inspiration? How about a trail view to the Roof of Africa to brighten your Thursday?

Standing an imposing 19,341 feet above sea level, Mount Kilimanjaro is the highest peak on the African continent and one of the world’s famed Seven Summits. This dormant stratovolcano dominates the Tanzanian skyline, offering a silhouette that has captured the imagination of explorers for centuries.

A Peak for the Persistent

Despite its intimidating appearance, Kilimanjaro holds a secret: it is not a technical climb. You don’t need ice axes or ropes to reach the summit. In fact, it can be scaled by any hiker in good physical shape with a healthy dose of mental toughness. It’s a “trekker’s mountain,” making it one of the most accessible high-altitude peaks on the planet.

A Journey Through the Biomes

Part of what makes the Kilimanjaro experience so special is the sheer variety of environments you encounter. Climbing the mountain is like walking from the Equator to the North Pole in just a few days. You’ll trek through five distinct biomes:

  • Cultivation & Rainforest: Your journey begins in sweltering, lush tropical forests.

  • Heath & Moorland: The trees thin out into giant lobelias and shrubs.

  • Alpine Desert: A stark, lunar-like landscape.

  • The Arctic Summit: The final push ends in a frozen alpine zone of glaciers and scree.

Pro Tip: Layer Up!

If there’s one lesson every Kili climber learns, it’s this: Bring your woolies, but wait to put them on! You’ll start your hike in shorts and a t-shirt, but you’ll finish in heavy down gear.

Whether you're dreaming of standing on the summit or just admiring the view from the savanna below, Kilimanjaro is a powerful reminder of the diverse beauty found in the heart of Africa.

Luxury Lodging Meets Untamed Nature: Ang'ata Bush Camps

Bush camps like Ang'ata aren't just lodging; they are your front-row seat to the wild. Don't let the environment fool you—behind the canvas beats 5-star heart.

Imagine returning from a dusty game drive to a hot shower, a three-course meal that rivals any city restaurant, and "Bush TV" (our nightly campfire) under a sky so clear the Milky Way feels within reach.

While our 2025 and 2026 excursions are fully booked, we are preparing for 2027. Email us here for details. Come experience the Serengeti exactly as it was intended.

Mtori: The Savory Tanzanian Banana Soup You Need to Try

A bowl of creamy Tanzanian Mtori soup made with mashed green bananas and beef

In Tanzania, banana soup—traditionally known as Mtori—is a savory, creamy staple that often surprises travelers expecting a sweet dessert. Originating from the Chagga people in the Kilimanjaro region, this hearty dish is made with starchy green bananas (matoke) rather than the sweet yellow variety.

It's a shame that you have to go all the way to East Africa to find a bowl. Anybody know a more local place? Anybody have a good recepe?