Africa Mission Trip – Day 8 (Fun Day – Safari)

Monday, June 17, 2013

(FYI – today’s blog is done from my iPad so it looks a little different. All pics are at the bottom.)

Today was our “fun” day for our trip … and fun we had. Our day started off very early since our safari jeeps were picking us up at 6:30 AM. We divided up into three different vehicles and got on our way for our two hour drive south of Arusha to reach our first destination. We were able to see some pretty amazing sights driving through the countryside. One of the very cool things we saw from the road were random traditional Massai villages. Tomorrow we will actually be visiting one which we are all excited about.

Around 8:45 we made it to the Lake Manyara National Park. After we pulled in our driver had to take care of our admission fee and we were allowed to look around for a few minutes. Those that have been to this park before showed us how floodwaters have ravaged this area during the previous rainy season.

After a few minutes we made our way into the National Park. It was very exciting to see so much of God’s creation that many had never seen before. On our safari today we were able to see various types of monkeys, baboons, elephants, hippos, zebra, giraffes, wilder beast, and warthogs to name a few. Most have seen these animals in zoos before but never in their natural habitat.

We took a break for lunch around noon at a picnic area that was breathtaking. It was on a higher elevation that allowed us to see what seemed like forever. From a distance we were able to see giraffes walking down close to the lake, beautiful birds hopping all around us and trees like you have probably never seen before. I am thankful for the environment because the lunch lacked a little to be desired. Not that I am complaining but a carrot and onion sandwich isn’t something that I would normally order.

After lunch we made our way back toward the front gate and to continue our journey further south. After about another hour down the road we made it to the front gate of the Ngorongoro Crater. Again our driver had to go in to pay for our entry fee. While we were waiting we saw several monkeys (don’t know what kind) jumping in the back of a truck. The Tanzanian owners were literally fighting with them to get them out. We just sat back and laughed about the whole thing. Those aren’t common problems we face in America.

The Ngorongoro Crater is one of the natural wonders of the world. It was originally a volcano that must have had some sort of major eruptions followed at some point by an implosion causing the crater we have today. (On a side note, most likely developing during the Great Flood found in Genesis chapter eight. Understanding it in this light adds a whole new element to the intrigue of this visit.)

It took us about 30 minutes to drive to the top rim of the crater where we paused for a few moments to take in the incredible views. From the top we had about another 30 minute drive to make it across the top of the rim to the Sopa Lodge where we would be staying. Honestly, the only thing I can say after being here for a little while is, “This is not a normal mission trip.” Everything about this place is first class. The facility is immaculate, the view from the lobby, the back porch, the swimming pool and every single room is amazing! I almost feel guilty to even be staying here (I did say almost). We arrived in enough time to settle into our rooms, take in the view from lounge chairs on the back porch and enjoy a hot shower with actual water pressure. We were hoping to watch the sunset together but clouds did not permit us to view it. We met together for dinner and it was literally a four course meal with choice of salads, soups, main dishes and desserts. No one complained about dinner I promise you that.

Everyone is settling in early tonight for tomorrow is yet another very early morning (plus we have to have armed guards walk us back to our rooms from the dining area to protect us against potential animals). We have an all you can eat breakfast in the morning starting at 6:00 AM and we leave for the Crater bottom at 6:45. Tomorrow is part two of our safari adventure. We are hoping to see many new animals, especially lions. We will picnic lunch tomorrow at the “Hippo Pond” before leaving this incredible place. We are stopping on our way back to Arusha at a Massai Village and will participate in a church service there.

Please continue to keep us in your prayers. Today has been a great day of rest, but we are all still wore out. Our time here in Africa is rapidly coming to a close and I am not convinced that God is through with us yet. Pray for continued opportunities to make His name known and for changed lives.

Until tomorrow …