We had considered a safari for decades yet never found a company that provided the type of private safari that we hoped to experience. After much research and comparing safari companies, we focused our attention on Africa Dream Safaris by communicating directly with Dawn. A lengthy and detailed phone conversation solidified our decision that Africa Dream Safaris was the company that would help us meet our goals.

Our goals were two-fold: to experience the unique culture(s) of Tanzania (while avoiding “tourist areas”) and “to see as many different animals and wildlife as possible” during game drives. Dawn patiently worked with us during the process of planning our days to include visits to several tribal people groups, a typical Tanzanian village with a visit to the Poli school, and a tour of FAME (Foundation for African Medicine and Education).

Those visits were woven into our days in the vast land where wildlife roam freely. By choosing the camps that provided the best location for the type of experience we desired, Dawn was able to plan the days to meet our goals.

Arnold, our guide who is now “family”, demonstrated incredible knowledge of animal behavior. He knew the probable area to find each animal species and often explained how the terrain supported each species. Arnold’s ability to sight animals while driving on rough, bumpy roads amazed and delighted us.

We felt safe and confident in Arnold’s abilities both as a driver and guide. Always remembering that photography was important to us, he inevitably found the best position for our vehicle in order to highlight the subject being photographed.

By maximizing early morning game drives, we were able to view more wildlife than folks who chose to sleep late in the mornings. Our first full safari day began before 6am. Soon after sunrise we experienced the Mara River crossing by an enormous gathering of wildebeests. “The Migration” of animals cannot be described adequately in words. Thousands upon thousands of animals move in large herds, seeking green vegetation and water as they migrate across the parched land.

Elephant family groups, zebras, hippos, baboons, ostriches, monkeys, and carnivores (lions, cheetahs, leopards, hyenas, jackals and vultures) and birds were observed more often than we thought possible. We learned that although many animals migrate some are “resident” animals of the land.

A surprise bush dinner the night of the full moon was magical. Walking down a path lit by lanterns to a table set for us was uniquely personal. Staff members prepared a delicious buffet meal with meat choices grilled over an open flame. The meal ended with cake being served as we enjoyed music sung in Swahili that were lively and heartfelt.

Celebrating our 43rd wedding anniversary under the star filled sky will always be remembered fondly. The food at this outdoor celebration was only second to the warmth of the staff who prepared and served us. A large group of staff members sang as they brought an anniversary cake to our table.

Early morning game drives were routine. We appreciated knowing that ADS has no limit on daily mileage. Many days we chose to “game drive” the entire day. We were supplied with packed breakfast and lunch meals that were abundant. Animal sightings never became tiring, as each encounter with wildlife gave new and exciting learning and photo opportunities. We invite you to enjoy some of our favorite photos.

Although we had high expectations for the safari, our experience exceeded our expectations. Memories of the Mara River Crossing, the many animal sightings (including young offspring), tribal visits with dancing and personal interactions, school children eager to meet us, a tour of FAME, our guide Arnold, special meals and the gracious people of Tanzania at every camp created experiences each day that we will always remember.

We left Tanzania “wonderfully exhausted and incredibly happy”. When we are asked by friends and/or family to describe our Africa Dream Safari, we always respond, “It was perfect in every way.”

Rich and Valda W.
Rockingham, Virginia
Safari Dates: October 1, 2025to October 13, 2025