There are moments in life that shift your perspective, when the vastness of the world humbles you and the beauty of the unknown leaves an imprint on your soul. My trip to Tanzania with Razorbacks on Tour and Odysseys Unlimited was one of those experiences.
Each year, Razorbacks on Tour invites alumni and friends to travel the world together, learning, exploring and building meaningful connections. As the official travel program of the Arkansas Alumni Association, the initiative offers up to 20 tours annually, each designed to foster connection, engagement and unforgettable memories. In the summer of 2024, I joined 16 Razorback travelers on a once-in-a-lifetime journey across Tanzania.
Our tour began in Arusha, where Land Cruisers carried us through national parks, across crater floors and into the heart of the Serengeti. We watched elephants move through baobab groves, lions resting in tall grass and zebras crossing the plains. The wildlife was extraordinary, but the true heart of the trip was our shared journey.
We were guided by four exceptional local guides who brought Tanzania to life through their knowledge and passion. They became more than guides; they became family. Their stories and insights deepened our understanding of conservation, culture, and the environment.
What stood out most were the shared moments: quiet awe during early morning game drives, laughter over meals, and evenings overlooking the plains. Our final chapter in Zanzibar gave us time to reflect as we explored Stone Town and visited spice farms, balancing safari adventure with island life.
Hosting this trip reminded me why Razorbacks on Tour exists. These journeys are not simply vacations. They are opportunities to learn, connect, and grow together. For alumni seeking something deeper than a passport stamp, Razorbacks on Tour offers perspective, friendship, and community wherever the road leads.
*This post is condensed from a longer article by Collin Brunner B.S.H.E.S.’10 published in the summer 2025 issue of Arkansas Magazine. Collin is a Life Member currently serving as Associate Director of Revenue Management at the Arkansas Alumni Association. See more photos from the tour here.
