This week on Wander Every Day, I’m joined by my cousin-in-law Francesca, to review her action-packed and unforgettable trip through Tanzania and Zanzibar — a journey that had everything: wildlife, wonder, and a few unexpected bumps (literally).

She takes us along on her 6-day Serengeti safari, where she:
🦓 Witnessed the legendary wildebeest river crossing
🚙 Survived a couple of safari vehicle breakdowns
🎈 Soared over the plains on a sunrise hot air balloon ride
🦁 Explored the incredible Ngorongoro Crater — home to some of Africa’s densest wildlife

Then it was off to Zanzibar for some well-earned rest and exploration:
🌴 Beachfront chill time in Kendwa
🌶️ A deep dive into culture on a Stone Town spice tour

Oh, and did they see a kill on safari? You'll have to listen to find out 👀

Whether you’re dreaming of a Big Five safari, craving clear turquoise waters, or just curious what it’s like when your safari truck breaks down in lion territory — this one’s got stories.

🎧 Hit play and let’s wander.

00:00 Introduction to Tanzania and Zanzibar

3:07 Even Experienced Travellers Make Mistakes - the Soon-to-Expire Passport Story

9:24 African Safari Planning: When To Go, the Great Migration + Preparatory Info

15:20 Francesca’s Trip to Tanzania + Zanzibar: Ethiopian Airlines, How to Choose A Safari Tour + Cost Expectations

26:58 Serengeti Safari Day 1: Truck Breakdown Part I, Seronera + Overview of the Camps

35:55 Serengeti Safari Day 2: Truck Breakdown Part II + Safari Meals

41:52 Serengeti Safari Day 3: Hot Air Balloon, Up Close Lions + Flash Flooding Dangerous River Crossing

52:09 Serengeti Safari Day 4: Wildebeest Crossing + Elephants

55:05 Serengeti Safari Day 5: The Kill!? + Pamoja African Lodge

1:01:36 Serengeti Safari Day 6: Ngorongoro Crater + How Many Gazelle are There?!?

1:04:55 Zanzibar: Arusha Airport, Italian Invasion in Kendwa + Stonetown

1:14:54 Respecting Culture, Diving + Canadians Owning the Zanzaibarian Resort

1:22:52 Rapid Fire Round

1:24:57 Listener Questions: Other Safari Locations in Africa, Bathrooms?, and the Beaches in Zanzibar