A network of tradings zones in the Indian Ocean developed between 300 BC and AD 300. This network not only generated awareness of the larger world in the NT period, but introduced luxury goods to those who could afford them. Check out the video below!
Coke’s Hartebeest: The Serengeti’s High-Speed Survivor
Juvenile Coke's Hartebeest on the Serengeti plains, Tanzania.
Africa’s Diversity: The Speed and Grace of Coke’s Hartebeest
When it comes to antelopes, no place on earth has a greater variety than Africa. Some 72 native species have been identified across the continent, ranging from the tiny dik-dik to the massive eland. While they vary in size, all African antelopes share key traits: they are smooth-haired, hollow-horned, and dedicated grass-eaters.
The Nimble Giant: Coke’s Hartebeest
Spotted on the great plains of the Serengeti, the juvenile Coke’s hartebeest (Alcelaphus buselaphus cokii) pictured above is already showing the sturdiness of its species. As one of Africa’s larger antelopes, the hartebeest is easily recognized by its long, narrow face and high, sloping back.
Don’t let their awkward silhouette fool you—they are built for survival. Mature adults are remarkably nimble and known for their incredible speed.
Top Speed: They can clock in at 55 km/h (34 mph).
Agility: They are famous for being able to "turn on a dime," a vital skill when outmaneuvering predators like lions or hyenas.
Witness the Diversity of the Serengeti
From the speed of the hartebeest to the resilience of the Grant’s gazelle, the Serengeti is a masterclass in creation. February is often a good time to see these animals in action, as the calving season brings a burst of activity to the southern plains.
2026 - All seats have now been taken.
2027 - Email Us to Join the Waitlist – Be the first to receive itinerary details and priority booking for our return to the plains. Here’s our email link.
For more, see our post, The Kongoni: Africa’s Unique "Deer Beast.”
The Most Feared Moment in Africa: A Cape Buffalo Encounter
Cape Buffalo (Syncerus caffer) or “Dagga Boy” standing in a stream in West Tanzania.
Facing the "Black Death": A Midnight Visitor in West Tanzania
There is nothing quite like the sound of the African wild pressing against your bedroom wall.
Vicki and I were drifting off to sleep the other night when we were startled by a massive African or Cape Buffalo (Syncerus caffer) scratching against the wood frame of our tent platform. From inside the safety of the canvas (!), we listened to this legendary "Dagga Boy" breathe heavily and munch on wet grass just inches away. Eventually, he wandered back into the darkness. All's well that ends well.
Why the "Dagga Boy" is Most Feared
In the Serengeti and across West Tanzania, the most feared animal isn't the lion or the leopard—it’s an excommunicated old bull buffalo. Known as Dagga Boys (or "mud boys" in Zulu), these veterans have left the protection of the herd.
Their reputation is built on three dangerous traits:
Power: A mature bull can weigh up to 900kg (2,000 lbs) of pure muscle.
Unpredictability: Without a herd to protect, they become incredibly grumpy and territorial.
The "Black Death": This nickname was earned because they are known to circle back and stalk hunters or perceived threats, making them one of the most dangerous members of the Big Five.
Experience the Wild for Yourself
Whether you are watching them soak in a stream or hearing them scratch against your tent, a Cape Buffalo encounter is a core part of the African safari experience.
Expedition Update:
February 2026: Sold Out.
2027: Enter the inner circle! Email us here to join the priority waitlist for our next journey into the heart of Tanzania.
The Shaggy, Smelly Waterbuck: Africa’s Natural Bug Repellent
Shaggy Waterbuck (Kobus ellipsiprymnus) standing near a stream in the Serengeti, Tanzania.
Meet the Waterbuck (Kobus ellipsiprymnus). In the world of African antelopes, they are easily the most “textured” characters on the plains.
The shaggy part is obvious. Their hair ranges from a dusty brown to a deep grey, darkening as they age. But the smelly part? That’s where the real biological magic happens.
The Secret of the Musk
While I wasn’t quite close (or downwind) enough to sniff this family group, the Waterbuck's unique biology is legendary. Their skin glands produce a thick, musky oil that serves a triple purpose:
Waterproofing: It keeps this large antelope dry and buoyant when hanging out in their namesake rivers and swamps.
Predator Deterrent: The odor is reportedly strong enough to make lions think twice about their dinner choice.
The Ultimate Insecticide: This potent oil is a natural defense against the dreaded tsetse fly, a pest that most safari-goers spend their whole trip dodging!
Maybe next year I'll forgo the DEET and just go with a "Waterbuck Hair and Body Mist." What do you think? It might keep the bugs away, though I can't promise Vicki will let me back in the Land Cruiser!
experience the Serengeti (and its Scents) in Person
Experience the quirky side of African wildlife for yourself.
February 2026 Expedition: Sold Out.
2027 Expedition: Don't get left behind! Email us today (link here) to join the 2027 Priority Waitlist and be the first to know when booking opens.
The Variable Sunbird: A Flashy Gem of Arusha, Tanzania
Male Variable Sunbird (Cinnyris venustus) with metallic blue-green head and yellow belly in Arusha, Tanzania.
The Variable Sunbird: A Flashy Gem of Arusha
The call of the Variable Sunbird (Cinnyris venustus)—a rhythmic tew-tew-tew-tew-tew—is one of the most iconic sounds of equatorial Africa. These flashy little avians are the "socialites" of the savanna; they often perch on the highest branches and are never shy about announcing their presence to the world!
A Study in Iridescence
The male, shown here, is truly brilliant. His head and nape shimmer with a “metallic” blue-green luster that contrasts sharply against a vibrant yellow belly. It’s a color palette that seems almost too bright to be real.
Beyond its beauty, the sunbird is a precision-engineered feeder. Its needle-like curved beak and specialized tubular tongue are perfect for extracting nectar from the deep bells of tropical flowers. While they look similar to hummingbirds, sunbirds are a distinct Old World family of birds.
Backyard Birding in Tanzania
I spotted this particular specimen enjoying a midday shower in the sprinklers at our lodge outside of Arusha, Tanzania. It’s a reminder that on safari, the magic doesn't just happen in the parks—sometimes it’s right outside your room!
Join the 2027 Expedition
Want to see the “jewels” of Arusha for yourself?
February 2026: Sold Out.
February 2027: Don't miss the "tew-tew" call in person! Email us (here’s the link) to join the 2027 Waitlist and get priority access to our next Tanzanian adventure.
The Face of the Underworld: Meeting the Olive Baboon (Papio anubis)
The Face of the Underworld: Meeting the Olive Baboon
I’ve always found the "dog face" of the Olive Baboon to be a little threatening. Their sheer size and those formidable teeth make them one of the most respected primates on the savanna.
Why "Olive"?
This species is commonly called "olive" due to the unique coat of the Olive Baboon (Papio anubis)—a blend of grey-greenish fur that provides excellent camouflage in the African scrub.
The Mythological Connection
The official name, Papio anubis, carries a dark and fascinating history. While Papio is the genus marker for baboons, Anubis is the Greek rendering of the Egyptian god of the underworld.
When the French naturalist Jean-Baptiste Audebert named this primate in 1797, he was struck by the muzzle's resemblance to the jackal-headed deity. Like the god who weighed the hearts of the dead, the Olive Baboon has a piercing, "dog-faced" gaze that feels like it’s looking right through you.
Experience the Serengeti Wildlife
From the "dog-faced" baboons to the elusive leopards, the Serengeti is a land of living legends.
Expedition Update:
February 2026: Sold Out. All seats are taken!
2027: We are heading back! Email us (here’s the link) to join the 2027 Waitlist and be the first to receive details on our next Tanzanian adventure.
The Indian Ocean: Position and Place
I'm thinking BIG PICTURE here about a great sea south of the Biblical Heartland. Its contours are less familiar to many, but its influence is significant. Watch the short video below.
Walking on Stilts: A Close Encounter with the World’s Leggiest Bird in Tanzania
Walking on Stilts: A Day at Lake Magadi, Tanzania
If you ever find yourself on the floor of the Ngorongoro Crater, your eyes will likely be drawn to the massive lions or the rare black rhinos. But if you look toward the shimmering, salt-crusted edges of Lake Magadi, you’ll find one of the most elegant (and slightly comedic) sights in East Africa: the Black-winged Stilt.
The "Supermodel" of the Soda Lake
The first thing you notice about the Black-winged Stilt is the contrast. Their plumage is a sharp, tuxedo-like black and white, topped off with a needle-thin beak. But then, you see the legs.
Bright pink and impossibly thin, these legs look like they shouldn’t be able to support the bird at all. In fact, stilts hold the record for the longest legs relative to body size of any bird in the world. Watching them navigate the slapping waves of Lake Magadi, it’s immediately clear how they earned their name; they truly look like they are walking on wooden poles.
Why Lake Magadi?
Lake Magadi isn't your typical freshwater retreat. It is a soda (alkaline) lake, a harsh environment that most animals avoid. However, for waders like the stilt, it’s a goldmine.
Foraging Strategy: Their height allows them to wade deeper than other shorebirds, reaching food sources that smaller birds can't touch.
The Menu: They use those sharp beaks to peck at brine flies, larvae, and small crustaceans that thrive in the alkaline waters.
Adaptation: While the soda levels can be corrosive, the stilt thrives here, sharing the shoreline with shimmering flocks of Lesser Flamingos.
A Photographer’s Dream
Capturing a Black-winged Stilt in motion is a highlight of any Tanzanian safari. Whether they are delicately picking their way through the mud or taking flight with those long legs trailing behind them like a rudder, they bring a unique grace to the rugged landscape of the crater.
Pro-Tip: If you’re visiting Ngorongoro, bring a pair of high-quality binoculars or a long telephoto lens. The stilts often stick to the muddy shallows of Lake Magadi where the "slapping waves" meet the shore—a perfect spot for action shots.
Bridging Worlds: A Morning with Makuna Saruni in Mollel Emanyata
Makuna Saruni of Mollel Emanyata, Tanzania.
A short distance from the lush banana plantations near Mto wa Mbu (the "River of Mosquitoes") is the village of Mollel Emanyata. There we met someone who represents the vibrant future of Tanzania: Makuna Saruni.
As the son of a Maasai chief, Makuna carries the weight of centuries-old traditions on his shoulders. Yet, he is also an articulate young man with his sights set firmly on a university education next year. Meeting him wasn't just a cultural exchange; it was a glimpse into how the next generation is balancing ancestral heritage with modern ambition.
The Heart of Maasai Tradition
While many visitors recognize the Maasai by their vibrant red shukas and intricate beadwork, talking with Makuna revealed the depth behind the aesthetics. We learned about:
The Sacred Role of Cattle: In Maasai culture, cattle are not just livestock; they are a sign of wealth, status, and a spiritual gift from the deity.
The Warrior’s Path: Young men traditionally progress through life stages—from childhood to Moran (warrior) and eventually to elderhood.
Community Values: Respect for elders and the collective ideology of the tribe remain the bedrock of their society.
A Vision for the Future
Makuna is part of a growing movement of Maasai youth pursuing higher education to better advocate for their communities. In a world where land rights and climate change increasingly threaten the semi-nomadic way of life, articulate voices like Makuna’s are essential.
His goal to begin college next year reflects a broader shift: Maasai traditions are not "vanishing" but are instead evolving. Young leaders are proving that you can cherish your culture while embracing the tools of global citizenship.
Children inside the village schoolhouse.
Why Mto wa Mbu Matters
The area of Mto wa Mbu is unique in Tanzania for its incredible diversity. It is one of the few places where you can see the Maasai's pastoralist lifestyle side-by-side with the irrigation-based farming of the Chagga or the expert woodcarving of the Makonde.
Meeting Makuna reminded us that the true beauty of a Tanzanian Safari isn't just the wildlife—it’s the people. Young people like him inspire hope that we can all move forward together, respecting where we’ve come from while reaching for what’s next.
The Mara River Crossing
Large herd of wildebeest and zebra gathering at the edge of the Mara River during the Great Migration.
The Greatest Show on Earth: Witnessing the Great Migration
There is no sound quite like it—the thunder of over two million hooves hitting the dust-baked earth of East Africa.
We recently stood on the banks of the Mara River, the natural border between Tanzania’s Serengeti and Kenya’s Maasai Mara, to witness the Great Migration. Known as the largest mass movement of land mammals on the planet, this isn't just a trek; it’s a high-stakes drama of survival, instinct, and raw power.
The Chaos of the Mara River Crossing
The herds of wildebeest and zebra gather by the thousands at the river’s edge. There is a palpable tension in the air as they wait for one brave leader to take the plunge. When they finally go, it’s a spectacle of:
Adrenaline: Watching thousands of animals navigate steep cliffs and "slapping waves."
Nature’s Gauntlet: The Mara River is home to some of Africa’s largest Nile crocodiles, waiting for the crossing to begin.
The Symbiosis: Notice how the zebras and wildebeests travel together; zebras have excellent memory for the migration route, while wildebeests can scent water from miles away.
A massive herd of blue wildebeest and zebras charge up and out the Mara River during the Great Migration.
North for Feeding, South for Birthing
The Great Migration is a relentless circular journey of about 1,200 miles. The herd follows the rains in a constant search for greener pastures:
The North (Feeding & Breeding): During the winter months, the herd pushes north into the Maasai Mara to graze and breed.
The South (Birthing): In the summer, the rhythm shifts as they move south into the Serengeti for the calving season.
At either end of the calendar, it is a spectacle to behold. In 2024 and 2025, we had the incredible opportunity—as the photo above demonstrates—to witness the intensity of the Mara River crossing. Looking ahead, we anticipate arriving in 2026 specifically for the birthing season (stay tuned for future posts on that incredible sight!), intense for a different set of reasons.
Join Us on Safari!
We don't just want to tell you about it; we want you to see it for yourself. The sight of the herd stretching across horizon is a soul-stirring experience that stays with you forever.
Ready to check the Serengeti off your bucket list?
We are currently making plans to witness the Great Migration again in 2027, and we’d love for you to join our caravan. Email us here to get the first opportunity at seats when registration opens!
West of Greece
The Ionian Sea becomes the Adriatic, west of Greece.
Serengeti Arrival
Our group from White Oak Christian Church arrives at the boundary to the Serengeti National Park, 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:
Read the deep dive: A Wildlife Photographer's Guide to the Nikon 200-500mm
Master the art: Travel Photography: Bump it up a Notch by John Ketchen.
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 Now-gone Gate in Thessaloniki
Discover the Vardar Gate in Thessaloniki. It was an important entrance/exit to the city in antiquity, possibly used by the Apostle Paul. The remains are now gone (save one inscription), but the spot remains a busy intersection today. Watch the video below.
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:
Palm Weaving: Guides often craft intricate hats, ties, or jewelry out of palm leaves for you to wear.
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.
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.
The Government House of Thessaloniki: 2,000 Years of Power
The Government House of Thessaloniki. Image from wikipedia.org (accessed 2/9/2026).
Standing as a testament to two millennia of unbroken power, the Government House of Thessaloniki—locally known as the Konak—is a structural palimpsest of the Mediterranean's greatest empires. While the current neoclassical structure was designed by Italian architect Vitaliano Poselli in 1891, the ground beneath it has served as the heartbeat of authority since the Hellenistic era. From its roots as a luxurious Roman residence to its role as the Ottoman seat of administration, and finally its modern evolution into the Ministry of Macedonia and Thrace, this site offers a rare continuity of place that mirrors the turbulent history of the region.
To see it yourself and learn more, watch the video below.
Experience Greece with Bible Land Explorer
We aim to be back in Thessaloniki twice in 2026.
Land Tour of Biblical Greece, October 10 - 21, 2026. See the travel brochure here for details.
Mediterranean Cruise, Oct 22-Nov 3, 2026. See the website here for details.
Seats are available on both excursions. Experience the place where faith begins!
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.