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Our program is already almost over, with only 5 days left in Tanzania. I can’t believe how fast these weeks have gone by. I have seen so many incredible things and met so many amazing people. We just got back from our four day expedition in Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro Crater yesterday, which were some of the most incredible days of my life.

We spent Sunday at Ngorongoro Conservation Area before heading on to the Serengeti. Ngorongoro Crater, the largest crater in Africa, was extremely beautiful. We did a game drive throughout the morning to see some amazing animals. This is where I saw my first lions, which were stunning, and the only rhino I’ve seen in Tanzania. There are only about 30 rhinos left in Tanzania, so I felt extremely lucky to have seen one.

We arrived in the Serengeti in the evening. We went for our first game drive Monday morning, and completed ungulate behavior and tourist activity exercises. Tuesday was by far my favorite day in the Serengeti and maybe my favorite day of the whole trip. We saw a hyena right next to our car, proving them to be one of the cutest animals I’ve seen. We were also lucky enough to see three cheetahs kill a young Thompson’s gazelle, which was an unbelievable sight. I was so excited to see many lions, as I love all of the big cats. I saw my first leopard that day as well, taking a nap in a tree. We saw an immense amount of zebras, elephants, and gazelles. Elephants continue to amaze me every time I see them and I have a new-found love of zebras due to their beauty.

This expedition to the Serengeti was an incredible experience, and not only was I fortunate to see so many animals, but I also created bonds with some amazing people. I will always be thankful for my experiences here in Tanzania, especially the friendships I’ve created. I’m so sad to leave this beautiful place in 5 days, but I will never forget this experience.