Nature Journaling in Tanzania: A Life-Changing Safari Experience
- Billie Jo Reid
- Apr 7
- 4 min read
Updated: Apr 24
In June of 2022, I had a life-changing conversation on Zoom with John (Jack) Muir Laws. We were chatting when he casually asked, “Do you take holidays in the winter?” At the time, I was working for the Peel District School Board and told him that yes, I was lucky to be able to take vacation whenever I needed. Jack then mentioned that in February, the wildebeest were calving in large numbers in Tanzania. I instantly felt a surge of excitement and panic—was he talking about his upcoming Nature Journaling Safari to Tanzania?
I braced myself for the inevitable, thinking he was about to say something like, "You should come!" but I would have to tell him I couldn't afford the trip. But then, to my utter shock, Jack asked me if I would co-lead the trip with him—and that my costs would be covered. I was speechless. If you know me, you know that doesn't happen often. I stammered out a quick “yes,” but then said I needed to check a few things before I started “blubbering like a baby.” Jack laughed and said we’d talk soon.
As soon as the Zoom call ended, I turned to my co-workers and screamed, “I’M GOING TO AFRICA!!” They were all ecstatic for me. I quickly called my boss to ensure I could take the time off, and he said yes, but I’d need to clear it with my principal. I sent an email, and he replied with a simple, “YES, but you have to take me with you!” I laughed—of course, he had to joke about it.
When I got home, I told my family, and I couldn’t hold back my tears. My husband was understandably concerned, I could barely get out the words, “Africa… Africa.” Then, I screamed, “I’m going to AFRICA!!” His face lit up with excitement for me, and we couldn’t wait to share the news with our girls. My youngest, in true fashion, asked, “We’re going to Africa?” I replied, “No, Mom is going to Africa.” She responded with, “Oh, well that’s still really exciting!”
After that, I immediately started getting my shots and preparing for the trip of a lifetime.
The Journey Begins
February 2023 arrived faster than I could have imagined, and before I knew it, I was kissing my family goodbye at the airport. After almost 19 hours of travel, I landed at Kilimanjaro International Airport, where I was met by one of the guides from Face of Africa Adventures. We traveled to Arusha, a city near the base of Mount Kilimanjaro, to our hotel, where I finally met Jack in person for the first time.
The adventure began in Arusha National Park, where we spotted black-and-white colobus monkeys, giraffes, crown cranes, and so much more! It was incredible to witness such diverse wildlife in a place so rich with natural beauty.
We then journeyed to Tarangire National Park, known for its huge population of elephants. There, we stayed in the most gorgeous tented lodge, with stunning views of Lake Manyara and playful wart hog babies at breakfast. The next day, we embarked on the long drive to Serengeti National Park. The journey took us through beautiful little towns and up the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, climbing to about 8,000 feet above sea level before descending into the Serengeti.
Driving down the "dust highway," we were greeted by secretary birds, antelope, and even a large male lion lounging on a rock right beside the road. That night, we stayed in a luxurious tented lodge with an outdoor shower and incredible views of the Serengeti. The starry night sky was beyond anything I had ever seen.
Witnessing the Wildlife of a Lifetime
In the Serengeti, we spent the next few days exploring. We saw hippos lounging in pools, lions napping in the grass, and leopards perched in trees. One of the most memorable moments was when an ancient male elephant stopped right in front of our vehicle, shaking his head and sending dry mud all over us. The experience was surreal, and I’ll never forget the sheer power of that magnificent creature.
We then moved on to the Ndutu Plain, where we stayed in a rustic yet charming tented lodge. Every morning, we woke before the sun to witness the breathtaking Tanzanian sunrises and hear the sounds of lions outside our tents. The plains were teeming with wildlife—herds of wildebeest numbering in the hundreds of thousands, lions stalking their prey, and even a cheetah hunt that left us in awe.
After several days in the Ndutu Plains, we ventured to the Ngorongoro Crater, a truly spectacular place where animals rarely leave. The wildlife here was so close to the road, it was hard to believe. Zebras, Cape buffalo, hippos, lions, and birds surrounded us. And as we reached the end of the day, through binoculars, we spotted two rhinos—marking the completion of my Big Five list.
That night, we stayed in another luxurious lodge, finishing the day with a refreshing dip in the pool—a perfect way to relax after such an incredible experience.
Giving Back: A Heartfelt Conclusion
Our last two days were spent giving back to the local community. We visited the Amani Children’s Home, where the Wild Wonder Foundation supplied Nature Journaling kits to all the staff and students. The guides introduced themselves and shared their stories of becoming safari guides, inspiring the group. We then set up multiple stations to teach the staff and students new skills they could use in their own nature journals.
The next day, we took them on a safari in Tarangire National Park, the first safari experience for many of them. It was an unforgettable adventure, watching them document their own experiences and discoveries in their nature journals.
This trip was not just about the wildlife and breathtaking landscapes; it was about connecting with the land, the people, and ourselves. I will forever be grateful to Jack for inviting me to co-lead this incredible journey, and to the people of Tanzania for welcoming us so warmly. This experience will stay with me for a lifetime, and I will continue to carry the lessons of nature journaling into my life and my teaching.
The adventure of a lifetime truly happened in Tanzania, and it was all thanks to nature journaling.
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