Times in Tanzania: West Kilimanjaro: Farmstead II

Looking out towards Mt. Kilimanjaro.

This weekend was a completely different experience than our first trip to a farmstead in west Kilimanjaro (Trip I). After that trip I wrote, "Overall, the farm experience was interesting, though I'm not sure if we'd return.", while this time I am going to finish with, "We can't wait to return". It's not that we didn't have a nice time last time; we both remember remarking on the incredible views and the amazing food. Was it just the weather?

We had previously come in the dry season and the fields of grain were mesmerizing against the backdrop of the plains below. This time we actually almost canceled the trip at the last minute because the rain had been so bad. Luckily we pressed on and we were rewarded with a lush and vibrant landscape. It was still cloudy for the majority of the time which created a very subdued vibe in the soft light.

We were happy as the lodge was not very crowded so we were able to camp at the main house. We set up camp and then went off to drive around the 2,500 acre farm. We were very lucky with the weather as it appeared to almost start raining for about five hours. Unfortunately our hot streak expired as we tried to climb up to the forest, slid off the road and into the soft fields. We had to call the proprietor of the property to come and pull us out. The rain was threatening but never came and after a few nervous tugs, we finally got us out and on our way.

After we hard returned to the main camp, it started raining. We were happy to have the hot shower and cover and enjoyed a tea while reading and watching the sunset. The views from the main house are unbelievable with the entire valley between Mt. Kilimanjaro and Mt. Meru visible and dotted with conical hills. The food, as previously remembered, was unbelievable, dare I say, the best food in this region.

In the morning we enjoyed a quick "river walk", a short walk next to a river which separates public land and the national park. The water was so high that we couldn't go view a waterfall we had seen last trip. The walk was a great way to start the morning and work up our appetite for another amazing meal of homemade granola, yogurt, sausage, fresh fruit and eggs.

After must discussion and reflection, we concluded that our extreme change in the interpretation of our experience was likely based on expectations. Our first trip we perhaps expected too much and then this trip we were ready for the worst, which would have been constant rain and reading in the tent. We had a great time and can't wait to return.