African Safari: Kenya and Tanzania

Nairobi is the capital and largest city of the country of Kenya in Africa. Nairobi is one of the most prominent cities on the continent cities both politically and financially. The main headquarters of the United Nations for Africa and the Middle East is located here, as well as the UN Environment Program. The population of Nairobi is estimated to be about 3.36 million.

The David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust protects Africa’s incredible wildlife and habitats. Visit a trust located near Nairobi, which rehabilitates young and injured elephants. The trust offers the opportunity to watch as the elephants are fed and bathed by skilled caretakers.

Visit the Kenyan farmhouse that formed the plot for the book and movie, “Out of Africa.” Danish author Karen Blixen wrote this memoir on her life on the Kenyan coffee plantation after moving from the U.K. in the early 20th century. Her farmhouse is now a museum, where you can learn about her intriguing life and journey.

This park is famous for its open spaces where lions and elephants roam free, giving you an up close (but not too close) view of these magnificent animals in the wild. Snowcapped Mt. Kilimanjaro, the highest free-standing mountain in the world, hovers over the breathtaking landscape.

Shanga Workshop is a local business in Arusha, Tanzania that employs more than 50 people with disabilities to create beautiful hand-crafted jewelry and homeware using recycled materials. The workshop includes space for glass-blowing, weaving, sewing, painting, bead-making, and more.

Karatu, Tanzania is the gateway to the Highlands. This humble town is located at the edge of the country’s untamed nature, making it the perfect pause from wildlife safaris. Its busy downtown consists of a marketplace, brewery, and more.

This UNESCO World Heritage site is a wonderland of Tanzanian wildlife. Nicknamed the “African Eden,” the enormous crator buzzes with animal activity, making it perfect for a game drive. It is known for having one of the most prolific land animal populations in the world.

This region of Tanzania is teeming with African wildlife. “Serengeti” means “endless plains” in Masai. Explore its grasslands for a chance to spot Africa’s most iconic wildlife, including lions, gazelles, cheetahs, hippos, and more.

This salt lake in the Highlands of Tanzania is full of natural wonders. The lake comes and goes with the wet and dry seasons as a breathtaking burst of blue among vast plains. You may spot flamingoes or hippos cooling off in the water. The area is inhabited by indigenous Hadza people and is home to historic archeological sites.

The Tarangire National Park is located in the Manyara Region of Tanzania and is the sixth largest national park in the country. Tarangire is most known for its elephant migration, its birding and its quiet and authentic safari atmosphere. In the peak season of the summer months, up to 3000 elephants will be in the park.