From Honeymoon to Second Safari: Sarah and Andrew’s 27-Year Journey with Somak

Where did you travel with us 27 years ago and what made you book with us again?

27 years ago we booked a safari to Kenya followed by a week in Mauritius. Ash was so passionate about the business and how important it was for them to provide a first class, memorable experience for their clients. I just knew this was the perfect company to choose to provide a bespoke honeymoon. It was excellent, so memorable. Safari is by far the best holiday for us and we knew we wanted to go on another safari holiday. In particular we wanted to experience the Serengeti and Ngorongoro. There was no need to consider anyone other than Somak.

What was the single moment that made you think “this is why I came”?

It’s the moment where you realise you have stepped into something truly spectacular that is so far removed from normal life. It is a privilege to be seeing so many animals in their natural world in a beautiful country. Just truly magical.

How did this trip compare to any previous safari or beach holiday you’ve taken?

There was such a contrast between our different safari regions, all beautiful in different ways. The people of Tanzania are so open and warm. They genuinely love to share information about their culture and find out more about yours.

Who would you say this itinerary is perfect for?

I would say the itinerary is suited to those who want to have a varied safari experience with different areas and types of accommodation. Tented camps are not for everyone but for us, we wished we had more nights in a tent! Just fabulous hearing the animals close by at night when you are tucked up in your luxury tent. What a thrill!

What was your most memorable wildlife encounter across the three parks – Lake Manyara, Serengeti, and Ngorongoro?

There were so many memorable moments. Goose bumps all over when we spotted two lionesses on some rocks playing together. We were so close and the only truck in the area. Wonderful! We were mesmerised and could have stayed all day. We saw a pride of lions lying beside their fresh kill, bellies full, lounging in the sunshine. Also watching the stunning giraffes at golden hour. Perfect light for seeing such majestic animals. Breathtaking when you witness so many animals passing in front, to the side and behind the truck. Seeing so many animals together on the plains, zebra, wildebeest, Thomson’s gazelles, all doing their bit to help each other. Feast for the eyes, memories forever.

How seamless did the Somak logistics feel?

Perfectly seamless. Somak representatives were always there on time waiting to warmly greet and look after us.

Any tips you’d give someone booking this for the first time?

Be sure of the balance wanted between safari and beach. We were happy to have more safari and less beach. We didn’t mind long days travelling in the safari truck. It was a great way to see more of Tanzania and the way of life. Oscar was so informative on different tribes, how people live and different ways to earn their daily bread.

Do you have a favourite story or moment with Oscar, your driver guide, that really stuck with you?

Oscar is so experienced. Pole pole was the way to go and we, and he, saw so much more. A lot of the truck drivers race from one sighting to another and must miss so much. Oscar’s x-ray eyes spotted a lion in a tree on the way out of Ngorongoro that our camera only captured with a full zoom lens. Amazing way to finish the day.