Tanzania: Lake Manyara

Our new guide and driver greeted us upon arrival and with a little coaxing agreed to give us a mini safari shortly after our check in at the lodge. We were able to get a sneak peak of the area just as some of the nocturnal animals were coming out to play. The wooded area was full of birds and monkeys who could have cared less about our presence in their habitat. We spent some time watching them as we slowly wandered towards the hippo pool. On the way we spied our first glimpses of impalas, zebras, and giraffes. The hippo pool was just like in the movies, full of wildlife enjoying the water. As the sun started to set, the hippos were becoming active and we watched them splash in the water. One of our fellow travelers was particularly interested in birds so the guide paid special attention to pointing out the varieties available including calls! I was very impressed with his knowledge of the animals.
The lodge we were booked at was of the Serena family. It was nicely situated at an elevation higher than the lake and surrounding lands. The balcony allowed a view of both and the room was cozy with a rustic feel and sense of privacy. Mosquito netting surrounded the bed at night to keep the bitey bugs at bay..or trap those already through the gates within! I was surprised just as I was dozing off with a grasshopper that confused my shoulders for a trampoline! My white knight in shining armor slayed the evil beast to ensure it never bothered sleeping beauties again. Poor little guy.
The following morning, we ventured back to the wooded area to see how the wildlife had changed with the time of day. The available wildlife was more abundant and as we expanded the covered ground, we were able to add to our list of animals seen. I had traveled with a Safari Journal which included an animal and bird checklist which I started to maintain as we went along. According to our guide, Lake Manyara would serve as our introduction to the animals with our experiences becoming more exciting at each safari destination. We can’t wait!