I set out on my seven day safari in Tanzania, eager to experience the breathtaking landscapes and incredible wildlife up close. As we drove through the Serengeti, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of awe at the majesty of the elephants, the graceful gazelles, and the fierce lions.

On the fourth day, as we were driving through the park, our guide pointed out a herd of elephants in the distance. We drove closer to get a better look. I couldn’t believe the sheer size of these magnificent animals. I raised my camera to snap a few photos, hoping to capture every moment of this incredible adventure.

Things Get Elephant

As we approached the herd, something caught my eye. Against the advice of our guide, I decided to leave the van and venture closer to the action. I wanted to get a better shot of the elephants, and I figured I could do so safely.
But as I moved closer, I heard a low rumbling sound. Suddenly, one of the elephants broke away from the herd and began charging towards me, its massive trunk raised high in the air.

I froze in place, my heart racing with fear. Quickly I remembered the advice of my guide and stood still. I was hoping that the elephant would calm down and stop its charge.
But the elephant kept coming, its footsteps shaking the ground beneath me. Just when I thought all was lost, I heard the sound of my guide’s voice calling out to me. Just then another tour van arrived and inside were a group of rangers on their way back to the camp from routine patrols.

Lurking Danger

The rangers arrived just in time and managed to divert the elephant’s attention with loud noises. I breathed a sigh of relief as the massive creature turned and headed back to its herd.
As we drove away from the scene, I reflected on the incredible beauty of the Serengeti, and the importance of being cautious and respectful in this natural wonderland.

But my brush with danger wasn’t over yet. A day later, I made another reckless decision – this time, I left the safety of the van to venture closer to a clan  of hyenas for a clearer shot.
I wanted to capture some up-close shots of the ferocious creatures, despite the warning signs of danger from my guide. As I approached the clan, they began to circle me, their growls growing louder and more menacing.
I quickly raised my camera and snapped a few quick photos, but the flash seemed to agitate the hyenas further. They began to move closer, and I knew that I was in serious danger.

Saved by the Antelope

Just when I thought all was lost, I heard the sound of my guide’s voice calling out to me once again. Meanwhile the  driver hooted and revved hard to ward of the hungry looking scavengers. Just then a seemingly out of luck antelope ran right into the hyenas, and for a moment they were distracted.
I took advantage of the opportunity and ran back to the van, to the amusement of other tourists in the van.

As we drove back to camp, I reflected on my recklessness. The importance of respecting the wildlife and following the advice of experienced guides can not be overemphasized. The beauty of the Serengeti was awe-inspiring, but it was also a dangerous place, and I vowed to be more cautious in the future.

My safari in Tanzania was a thrilling adventure that left me with memories that would last a lifetime. But it was also a powerful reminder of the importance of respecting nature and the incredible creatures that call it home.