Bush Planes, Baobabs & Balloon Safaris: Exploring Kenya & Tanzania

Arusha: Gran Melia Arusha

My trip began in Arusha, the gateway to Tanzania’s safari country. After the long international journey, Gran Meliá was the perfect place to reset before heading into the bush. The property feels polished and contemporary while still embracing the natural beauty of its surroundings. The spacious layout, excellent wellness facilities, beautiful spa, and one of the best hotel gyms in the region made it especially ideal after long-haul travel. Multiple on-site dining options and views toward Mount Meru added to the sense of arrival.

Tarangire National Park: Sanctuary Swala

From Arusha, we boarded our first bush plane—one of the most memorable parts of safari travel itself. There is something incredibly special about flying low over the African landscape, spotting herds of elephants and rivers beneath you before landing on a remote dirt airstrip in the middle of the wilderness.

Sanctuary Swala, located in Tarangire National Park, immersed us into safari life. Tarangire is especially known for its massive elephant population, ancient baobab trees, and more intimate safari experience compared to some of the more heavily trafficked parks. The camp itself blends into the surroundings and wildlife sightings often happen directly from the pool and restaurant that overlooks the plains.

Ngorongoro Crater: Lemala Ngorongoro

Next came the Ngorongoro Crater, one of the most breathtaking natural wonders in Africa. Descending into the crater feels almost surreal, as though entering a hidden world. The concentration of wildlife here is incredible, with excellent opportunities to spot rhinos, lions, flamingos, and large herds of animals grazing across the crater floor.

My stay at Lemala Ngorongoro was absolutely gorgeous. The property balances an elevated luxury feel with the romance of classic safari camp living. It offered spectacular proximity to early crater access (we were the first ones in the park as it’s only 30 minutes from the hotel to the entrance) while maintaining an intimate atmosphere.

Serengeti National Park: Sanctuary Kichakani & Four Seasons Serengeti

The Serengeti is one of those places that truly exceeds every expectation. Golden plains, dramatic skies, and wildlife at every turn create a dreamlike landscape.

Sanctuary Kichakani offered a more classic tented safari experience—immersive, intimate, and deeply connected to the migration routes depending on the season.

In contrast, Four Seasons Serengeti (my next stop) delivered a more expansive ultra-luxury lodge experience while still being fully immersed within the national park. The infinity pool overlooking a nearby watering hole is iconic for good reason, with elephants and wildlife often visible directly from your sunbed. It’s an incredible option for travelers wanting a sophisticated safari experience with every luxury touchpoint imaginable while still maintaining strong wildlife access.

Maasai Mara: Sanctuary Olonana

Next up—crossing into Kenya brought me to the legendary Maasai Mara, home to some of Africa’s most iconic safari moments. Sanctuary Olonana sits along the Mara River and feels serene.
One of the most unforgettable experiences of the entire trip was the hot air balloon safari over the Maasai Mara at sunrise. There are honestly no words that fully capture what it feels like to float above the plains as the sun begins to rise across the landscape. Seeing wildlife from above—elephants, giraffes, wildebeest, and the vastness of the Mara itself—was beyond extraordinary. The experience ended with a bush breakfast complete with champagne in the middle of the savanna. At sunset, we enjoyed beautiful sundowners—one of safari’s most iconic traditions. A beautifully set cocktail stop, friends, and being surrounded by nothing but plains and wildlife—it's one of those moments that cannot be replicated anywhere else in the world

We also visited a Maasai village, which added an important cultural dimension to the trip. Learning more about Maasai traditions, community life, and their connection to the land brought another meaning and perspective to the experience.

Laikipia: Sanctuary Tambarare

The final stop brought me to Laikipia and Sanctuary Tambarare, a region known for conservation-led experiences and amazing wildlife initiatives. This was where we encountered one of the most moving moments of the trip: seeing the last remaining northern white rhinos.

I curate safaris throughout Africa and work with a wide variety of luxury camps, conservancies, and bespoke safari operators to match each client’s individual travel style.

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