Mixed experience in Tanzania — beautiful but overhyped

Tanzania is undeniably beautiful. Lake Manyara and the area around Dar es Salaam have a visual quality that photographs don't capture fully. I enjoyed spiced chai and appreciated excellent conservation. That's all real.

But roads between parks can be rough was more of a problem than I expected based on reviews I'd read. It coloured parts of the trip in ways I hadn't prepared for. I'd still go back, but I'd approach certain aspects differently. A 4 feels generous on a bad day but fair overall.