Tanzania

Monika Czernin has been travelling Tanzania for years, venturing along a variety of routes by bus, dhow, bush plane and car. With her expertise and enthusiasm evident on every page, the author takes us from the famous north to the untamed south, moving us from the rich oceans of the Swahili coast to savannahs and tropical rain forests deep inland. On the way, she points out where best to spot lions, find local delicacies and swim with whale sharks, guiding readers through fascinating wildernesses and historical cities, to the most exceptional lodges. Czernin paints a multifaceted portrait of Tanzania, offering insights into rural, urban, coastal and wilderness living, exploring some of the unique cultures of the country's 130+ ethnic groups, sharing the African philosophy of Ubuntu and the many experiences and encounters that have shaped her perception of Tanzania. "Finally we have arrived at the Mara River, and breakfast surrounded by thorn bush. A lilac-breasted roller, my favourite bird, sits right next to our camping table as we eat. We may be here for some time, for we are waiting for the herds of wildebeest on the far bank to decide to cross the river. This requires patience and perseverance because wildebeest are great doubters. Are we going now or later? they seem to ask, standing around in large groups as if debating the pros and cons. Is there a leader of this monumental procession? Is the decision made by consensus? No, our guide Edwin tells us. It simply requires one brave wildebeest to find his courage and jump with death-defying abandon into the croc-filled river; after that all members of the herds - big and small, cubs and mothers - follow."