NAME: Candice Benson
OCCUPATION: Research Analyst
DATE OF TRAVEL: December / January 2009
ONE WORD THAT SUMS UP YOUR TRIP? Majestic
“To explain the many magical moments of my trip to Tanzania is no easy task … there were so many. To describe the feelings of exhilaration and adventure I felt looking out at the African landscape for the first time is near impossible. I feel so privileged to have experienced Tanzania with African Space….their knowledge of the land & people, the organization and the unique personalities of the staff made it very special. I camped on a mountain-top and then in the middle of the savannah. Journeyed to remote villages and spent the morning with a witch doctor. I swam with massive whale sharks and sat ten feet away from a lion and his lioness. All in one trip. I really do feel I had a glimpse of the “Real Africa”. It was an incredible experience that I will never forget.”
What was the nicest surprise of the trip?
Waking up at dawn at the top of Sange Falls in Udzungwa Mountains National Park. Quite possibly the most breathtaking place I have ever seen. Camping in the mountains with a roaring fire, listening to all the beasts in the night was incredible…. Then awaking the next day high above the valley with a roaring waterfall behind you, sipping on hot coffee watching the most brilliant sunrise I have ever seen was the highlight of my African experience. A truly majestic moment.
Describe the most amusing character you discovered?
So MANY funny characters on that trip! However, if I had to choose, it would have to be seeing my first giraffe. (all affectionally named Gerry) I’m not sure why I love them so much but it was quite special to see one of those curious, awkward but beautiful beasts in their natural environment. Lovely.
What was the most interesting thing learnt on the trip?
Something I mentioned to Mark and Jamie multiple times was the fact that I very much regret leaving my notepad and journal back in Dar es Saalam….the intimate knowledge of the land, sea and everything in between that everyone at African Space has is quite remarkable. I wish I wrote down all the fascinating stories I was told. I cannot describe just one! Everything from learning about the amazing qualities of the African elephant from Mark, to the many incredible marine species of Mafia Island from Jamie…All from people who know Tanzania so well – it was fantastic!
What was your favourite wildlife encounter and why?
Sitting less than 10 feet away from a lion and his lioness, just 15 minutes into our safari. We were at Mikumi Nationa Park and heard that there was a lion nearby. We found them resting under a tree….I didn’t really expect to see a lion on this trip as I was told they can be very difficult to find. Being able to get so close to one of the greatest predators on Earth was incredible!
