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
1:24:57 Listener Questions: Other Safari Locations in Africa, Bathrooms?, and the Beaches in Zanzibar
What is Wander Every Day: Real Talk, Real Trips?
Wander Every Day is the podcast where real travel stories meet smart recs + great chats.
Hosted by Day — a deal-finder, storyteller, and your go-to travel friend — each episode dives into honest conversations with well-traveled friends about where to stay, what to eat, what not to waste your time (or money) on, and how to wander smarter.
If you love adventure, good vibes, and learning tips and tricks for planning travel, you’re in the right place.
✈️🌍 Let’s wander.