Kwaheri

The collar of clouds that visits the rim of the crater has joined us again this morning. Like a thick white cotton ball it sits on our balcony, obstructing our precious vista below. We are pleased with our past 2 days of game viewing and with bittersweet emotions we bid farewell to our accommodation and the beautiful staff and surroundings of the Serena. We look forward to returning once again. 

As descend from the hills of the Rift Valley around Manyara the road opens up to the wide expanse of the grazing areas populated by Maasai villages and termite mounds. 

As we drive along the long ribbon of bitumen cutting through the bush and scrub, we pass groups of herdsmen and their skinny cows and goats. The landscape is dotted with the familiar domed huts of the Maasai, each arranged within a thick compound wall of bushes, branches and sticks. It is hard to tell if they intend to keep animals in or out. 

The grazing animals nearby foraging for food among the rocks and dry dusty ground. What grass they find is not a lush green but a straw yellow grass which seems lifeless and dry. 

With some time until we reach the airstrip of Arusha, Aasha climbs up to my lap for a cuddle and a nap. I think the transition back to mandatory car seat traveling will be challenging. 

Now at this busy hub populated with many turboprop Cessna's and a few large regionals, it's time to bid farewell to Adam and Zubeda and set off for Zanzibar and the beachside Serena Hotel.