– October 2024
In October 2024, I had the opportunity to visit the Ngorongoro Conservation Area in Arusha, Tanzania. It covers about 8,292 square kilometers. As a person living with a hearing disability, this trip was special and unforgettable. The tour was made possible through the support of an organization called APD (Action for Persons with Disability). I am truly grateful for the chance they gave me to explore one of the most beautiful natural wonders in the world.
The Ngorongoro Conservation Area was established in 1959. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is famous for the Ngorongoro Crater – the world’s largest inactive volcanic caldera. This area was created not only to protect wildlife but also to support the Maasai people who have lived there for many years. The history of the area is deeply connected to both nature and culture, making it a unique place for learning and adventure.
During my visit, I saw many kinds of wild animals in their natural environment. I saw lions resting under trees, large elephants walking slowly through the plains, and zebras and wildebeests moving together in groups. I also saw buffaloes, hippos in water, and even a few black rhinos, which are very rare. The birdlife was also amazing. It was like watching a live documentary, and I felt connected to nature in a deep way.
The weather inside the Ngorongoro Crater was cool and refreshing. In the mornings and evenings, it was often cold and foggy, which gave the area a magical feeling. Sometimes the mist made it hard to see far, but it also made the scenery look mysterious and beautiful. The air was fresh and clean, and the green landscape looked like a painting.
This tour gave me many benefits. I learned more about wildlife and the importance of protecting the environment. It helped me feel confident and included, even though I am deaf. The guides and staff showed kindness and respect, and I met people from different cultures. I also enjoyed the fresh air and natural beauty, which gave me peace and happiness. Being in such a place reminded me that we all belong to the same world, and that nature speaks a language that all of us can understand.
On December this year, I am planning to climb Mount Kilimanjaro, and I hope that this tour to Ngorongoro can be repeated every year. It was an experience I will always treasure.
I encourage all Tanzanians to value and visit our natural treasures. Sometimes we think these places are only for foreign tourists, but they are also ours to enjoy and protect. I also welcome international visitors to explore Tanzania and respect the environment and local communities.
Lastly, I would like to thank APD (Action for Persons with Disability) for making this trip possible. Your support gave me and others with disabilities a chance to experience something beautiful and life changing. I kindly ask you to continue offering such opportunities, especially for people with disabilities, so that no one is left behind in enjoying the beauty of our world.