The Trek To Tarangire

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Parting is such sweet sorrow…

I have seen some of the most beautiful places in this world.  Ngorongoro Crater tops that list!  Truly one of the most remarkable environments I have had the privilege to lay my eyes upon, I was definitely despising our departure.

Of course, there was going to be lots of new and exciting things to see in our next destination, Tarangire National Park.  However, one must not overlook the journey to get there.  Watching the scenery as we navigated the roads and highways would prove to be new and exciting too!

Many vibrant communities lined our route, with countless villagers going about their day to day living.  Markets were in full swing and people were waiting alongside the roadways in order to get there.

A couple of hours into our trek, we made a stop at the African Galleria.  Once we had utilized their facilities, we took a bit of time to walk around and inspect the amazing artwork.  Yes, there were the normal masks, souvenirs and fabrics that you would find in any market, but there was also the most awe-inspiring carvings that I have ever seen.  After spotting the most intricate piece of shaped wood, depicting migrating wildebeests, my curiosity got the best of me and I had to inquire about some of the prices.

They were willing to make a deal for me their first customer (okay, I’ve heard that one before).

They would give me a  much better deal because it was Sunday (yeah, heard that one too).

They would pack it carefully and ship it via FedEx and it would be waiting for me when I got home.

Any guesses as to the price?  Well, let’s just say that I could have booked another safari with what they wanted to charge me.

Not that it wasn’t worth it!  It truly was!  Both my husband and I agreed that the craftsmanship required to master a piece like that was worth the price.  When you have two children in college, however, you have to admire from afar and move along!

Strolling around, we made it to the more affordable part of the galleria and negotiated a fair price for a couple of other pieces.  Heading outside to relax with a couple of sodas, we then spotted the King of the Jungle!  Naturally, we had to pose for a few pics!

Turning back onto the highway, we traveled for a while until Fahad pulled over from the roadway to a fruit seller’s stand.  He said he had a surprise.  Well, it was definitely a surprise!  Have you ever seen or tasted a red banana?  Absolutely delicious!

Enjoying our red bananas, we traveled for a while longer before turning onto Tarangire Road.  This intersection was teeming with activity!  The Minjingu Market was going strong with villagers from miles around selling their wares and making deals.  So colorful and busy, we weren’t sure where to look!

Although Tarangire was only a short drive down the road, we didn’t have time to stop and enjoy the activity.

The elephants were calling!

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Minjingu Market

 

African Galleria

  • http://africangalleriatz.net/