Day 19 - Cultural Heritage Museum, Milkshakes, and Leaving Tanzania

As we write this final entry, we are roughly an hour away from the airport. Today has been filled with lots of driving and a visit to a cultural heritage museum. The walls are filled with vibrant colors, black and white pieces a rarity. Tanzanian views and animals populate most of the portraits, although there are some sprinkles of abstract and modern art within the six floors. A personal favorite was one of a lion and lioness with a small card comparing the lioness’s eyes to that of Mona Lisa’s: They will follow you across the room. I was doubtful at first, but after a few paces back and forth I was convinced. It was unnerving feeling like one of the animals the king of the jungle is imagining eating for lunch. The centerpieces of the rooms are impressive carvings, with massive lions, giraffes, buffalo, and more animals that I just cannot comprehend were made by hand. After exploring the many stories of the art gallery and getting last souvenirs, some of us enjoyed milkshakes and sweets with Tim before we said goodbye. Looking out the windows on our final drive has me lost in the colors, many of the pamphlets and letterings on buildings are faded, but that only enhances the intensity of the natural hues. I think I speak for everyone when I say that this trip has been incredible. I’ve learned so much about Tanzania and myself, and return home incredibly grateful I was able to participate in this journey. T-minus 30 hours until we’re home - we can’t wait to see all of you!

- Ari and Audrey










Popular posts from this blog

Day 2 - First Full Day in Tanzania - Mt. Kilimanjaro, Tanzanian Womanhood, and New Food (By Ari and Raul)

Image
Following our hours and hours of travel yesterday, our whole group was extremely tired, unable to fully grasp the beauty of Tanzania. This restriction changed quickly, and upon a fresh breakfast of crepes, eggs, pineapples (aren't you proud of me for eating them mom), and more, we were ready to embark on our first adventure: hiking around Mt. Kilimanjaro. Before I boarded the bus, I was hurriedly ushered over to just outside the gates of our hotel to view a rare site. An unobstructed view of the famed peak in all its glory. We were able to see the mountain peaking over the clouds, welcoming us to the beautiful country of Tanzania and giving us a sneak peak into our hike. On the hike, we explored the Shira Plateau, what was originally the tallest of three peaks in Kilimanjaro, but due to various volcanic eruptions and earthquakes collapsed into itself and flattened out. There was little wildlife to be seen, but I stayed near the back of the group, talking to a Tanzanian guide Tim, a
Read more

Day 3 - Arusha: The Ngarenaro School, Natural History Museum, and Cultural Heritage Center

Image
    We visited Ngarenaro School in Arusha where we met 4th through 6th graders. They were really excited to see us and greeted us with high fives and fist bumps. We visited a classroom and learned about the school.  We were introduced to our classmate Jordana's project with the school to fund their dining hall. We also asked the kids questions about their favorite subject and what they wanted to be when they grew up. Before we left the classroom they sang us a song, it was adorable (see video below). Once we walked outside the kids swarmed us with hugs, high fives, and were eager to ask us for our names and where we were from. It was the most unique experience we have had so far.  After we visited Ngarenaro, we walked through Arusha with tour guides who pointed out significant buildings. The vendors were really friendly and tried to politely get us to buy their products.  Next, we went to a Natural History Museum in Arusha where we learned about the evolution of humans. They had ar
Read more

Day 1 - Arrived safely at Kilimanjaro Airport!

Image
  We arrived safe and sound at Kilimanjaro Airport this evening and had our first Tanzanian meal together at the West Kili Lodge near Arusha. We have been traveling for 20 hours, so early lights out tonight!  Tomorrow we have breakfast at 8:30 and hike around Kilimanjaro.  We are already one mile high in altitude but will start hiking at even higher altitude tomorrow. Hoping for clear weather to see the summit.
Read more