Email this page
August 17, 2009
Africa: Animal instinct and human inspiration
On an early morning game drive in Tanzania, I once saw a pride of four lions planning a kill. I’ll never forget how they moved in concert, some of them almost a city block away from each other, as they prowled around the blissfully ignorant impala that was grazing in front of our vehicle. It went on for a long time—in fact, we had to head back before it was over—but it was amazing to watch them circling closer and closer to their prey, beautifully choreographed by instinct.
Witnessing animals in an unspoiled natural setting is the main reason why most travelers go on safari—and yes, it’s exhilarating, primal, and like nothing you’ll see anywhere else on earth. But what stays with me even more is the incredible spirit of the people of Africa—of Tanzania in particular. We have sung together under the stars … they have welcomed me into their homes, schools, and churches … they have shown me their homeland, and I, in turn, have introduced two very special guests to my own.
Have you ever made a special, unbreakable connection with local people during your adventures? I hope you’ll tell me your story. Email me at
harriet@oattravel.com
Next in Harriet’s Corner, I’ll be featuring Southeast Asia—another region that’s home to famously friendly people. But I welcome all of your stories.
Harriet Lewis