Tanzania Expeditions
- Office In:
-
United States
- Size:
- 5-10 employees (Founded in 2009)
- Tour Types:
- Custom mid-range & luxury tours that can start every day
- Destinations:
- Price Range:
- $150 to $700 per person per day (USD, excl. int'l flights)
Reviews
IE
Email Paul | 20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Trip of a Lifetime
I was part of a group of four that went on a Safari in August 2015. I was with my girlfriend and another couple who were friends of ours. We knew that this was the trip for us just by looking at the website and seeing the amazing photos of places and things we might see. We booked an 8 day stay with 5 on Safari and 3 nights on Zanzibar. We never thought that our experience could live up to the pictures, we were wrong, our trip was even better. Once we arrived all aspects of our journey through Tanzania were arranged for us.
On arriving at Kilimanjaro Airport we were collected and brought to the Outpost Lodge in Arusha. This was a lovely hotel a short walk away from the main part of town. The comfortable hotel was exactly what we needed after a long day of travelling. The evening was ours to spend as we liked and the next morning we packed up the jeep and were ready to head off for Tarangire National Park. As we packed the jeep we met our guide, Hilary, and our chef, Dioniz. These were a fantastic team and helped to make this such a good holiday, i could not recommend them highly enough. Over the next few days we visited four areas (Tarangire, Lake Natron, Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater). While this was a slightly personalised plan Justin was very accommodating in allowing us include the places that we wanted. Although there was some extra driving, we didn't mind as the landscapes you pass through are breathtaking from the dry scrub land in the dry season outside Arusha, to the vast Savannah around Serengeti with as much greenery as Ireland during the wet season. Each place we visited was different and had something special to offer, with the exhilarating encounter we saw of a lion stalking after a cheetah in Tarangire, to the amazing waterfall in the mountains around Lake Natron, the up close experience of being so close to a family of elephants that you could nearly reach out and touch them at Serengeti, and finally the incredible quantity of all types of animals at Ngorongoro.
We camped in the tents and sleeping bags provided which were of excellent quality. Each campsite was different but enjoyable as there was the chance to chat to other people on Safari. After the long day of driving we always looked forward to our chef's food. Everything was outstanding and his meals surpassed those of the restaurants we later ate in when on Zanzibar.
Our trip then took us to Zanzibar where we stayed 2 nights in Stone Town. Our itinerary included a tour of Stone Town and we added a trip to a nearby island where we got a tour of a prison, saw Giant Tortoise, and snorkelled in the clear blue waters. We stayed in the Tembo House Hotel which was quite comfortable with a beautiful location opening onto the beach (this was great at breakfast where you could look out and see the boats preparing for a day on the sea). On our way out of Stone Town we had a spice tour which brought us to one of the local farms. This was very interesting for anyone with a love of food or cooking to see how some (now common) ingredients grow.Our last night was in the Kendwa Rocks Hotel which had a spectacular location right on the beach. Unfortunately we had a few issues but these were purely to do with the Hotel and their staff.
Overall our highlights would be the sights on safari of the many different animals and the very enjoyable time we spent with our guide and chef. Both made our experience all the more enjoyable, with Hilary's hawkeye vision spotting the smallest animals way in the distance (be sure to bring binoculars so you can see them) and his endless knowledge of each animal, and then Dioniz's fantastic food and great company. Both men spent time with us each evening and we had great chats comparing life in Ireland and Tanzania.
I would highly recommend Tanzania-Expeditions to anyone interested in Safari and to try and get the team of Hilary and Dioniz!
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Email Whitney | 20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Highlight of Trip
We went on safari with Tanzania Expeditions and visited the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater and Lake Manyara. This was part of a lengthy around-the-world trip and the safari was easily one of the trip’s highlights. There was an event at the end that cost one point from the overall experience/score though.
From the beginning, communication with Justin was excellent. He outlined what we would do and where we'd be staying. The prompt email replies were one of the reasons we chose the company. We were a little wary of wiring the money, but the process was smooth.
When we arrived in Nairobi, our airport pickup changed from the previous plans, and our guide actually came to get us. We crossed the Tanzania/Kenya border without issue. (However, I would highly recommend flying into Arusha or Kilimanjaro to avoid 6 hours of driving each way.) Once we arrived at our hotel in Arusha, we met with Justin briefly. We were then told our accommodations had changed. We were pretty surprised because everything was so clearly outlined before the trip. We booked the safari about six months out, so this last minute switch was quite odd. But our new accommodations turned out to be great. More on those below.
The safari itself was amazing. Our guide was informative, insightful and extremely skilled at driving the vehicle over the rough roads. We were out from the early morning, pre-sunrise, to sunset. We saw the big 5 plus so much more. It's hard to describe how incredible it is to see elephants walking just meters away or lions stalking prey. Our safari vehicle was one of the older ones we saw and was a bit rough around the edges, but that didn't bother us.
We first stayed at Kati Kati Camp. I originally said I wanted lodges to stay in, not tents. When accommodations changed on us, there wasn't much we could do, so we embraced the opportunity to sleep in the Serengeti. Each tent had a shower and toilet, so you really weren't roughing it. The wind/animal noises at night kept us up at times, but it was a truly an authentic experience. Would I do it again? Probably not but I'm glad I did it once. Our next night at the Ngorongoro Farm House was easily our favorite accommodation the entire trip. It was beautiful and spacious and we wish we could've spent longer there.
The final day of the safari was very long. We had a short morning game drive and then we had to get back all the way to Nairobi. Along the roadways in Tanzania, there are constant police checkpoints where they are checking for correct documentation. It seems that all vehicles get pulled over at some point. Apparently these police are also corrupt and look for ways to fine you. We were pulled over many times without incident. When we were flagged to stop again, we kept driving. All of a sudden, we had police cars following us. At the next checkpoint, we were forced to stop and a policeman jumped into the vehicle with us and we had to drive to the police station. At this point, we were wondering what is going on? We waited at the police station for nearly 90 minutes and then we finally got some answers after Justin arrived. As it was explained to us, they were illegally trying to pull us over and our guide wanted to file a complaint with the police chief and that's why we ended up at the station. We eventually got on the road and arrived in Nairobi at night. If our guide had been in the wrong, they would've held him at the station, so we took that as a promising sign. (If you search for articles about police corruption in Tanzania, you do find it's a large problem.) Justin assured us this had never happened before. He apologized and promised that our safety is the top priority of the company.
Would we recommend Tanzania expeditions? Yes! Having a guide who was so knowledgeable and enthusiastic is not something you get from every safari company. Even considering the last day's incident, we have very positive things to say about our guide and the company overall. But do yourself a favor and limit the driving on the roads; fly into Arusha or surrounding areas. With Tanzania Expeditions, you are guaranteed to have an once-in-a-lifetime experience. All of our memories, both pleasant and even not so, will be vividly told through stories for years to come.
IE
Email Maeve | 20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Unforgettable Experience by a Fabulous Team!
We visited Tarangire, Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater and Lake Natron camping and StoneTown and Kendwa in Zanzibar staying in hotels. From beginning to end the service that we were provided with was exceptional. In the planning stages Justin was on hand to advise and reply extremely promptly to every email sent. We changed our minds, literary and dates several times and Justin was always ready and willing to help us in any way possible. I had contacted other providers but no ones price, advice or service compared in any way to Tanzania-Expeditions.
Our guide and driver Hilary was exceptional. Firstly he was a very competent driver on the rocky African roads, we always felt safe and comfortable. He was also excellent at getting us as close as possible to the animals in the parks. As a guide Hilary was extremely knowledgeable about all the animals, not to mention his unbelievable skill at spotting animals. There was a Science teacher and a Geography teacher in our group which ment we were really interested in all plants, animals, landscapes and everything in between but Hilary was able to fill us in on everything with full and interesting explanations and answering our endless amount of questions. He told us about Tanzania in general, the tribes and everything else that we passed along the way. He really made the holiday for us and he went out of his way to help us in any way possible. Seeing the animals up close in their natural environment is an unbelievable experience, but having someone like Hilary on hand was the difference in making the holiday excellent and unforgettable!
Dioniz our chef was also amazing. All four of us would be quite picky eaters but everything he cooked, from breakfast to dinner and the packed lunches were delicious and we were never hungry and were surprised every day with something different and equally as delicious. The food was far from average and it was better than we would have in restaurants back home. He also went above and beyond to make sure our stay was as enjoyable as possible always making sure everything at the campsite was ready to go for us. He was so professional throughout, and the food was always on time, ensuring we had the most time possible for game drives.
It was nice to finish in Zanzibar as it was a complete contrast from safari. Justin had everything organised for us there too and it was good to not have to worry about anything. If I were to do it again Lake Natron may have been too far of a drive however the waterfall there was beautiful and it was nice to hike up to it for the day as it got us out of the jeep. Also I would fly from Arusha rather than Kilimanjaro as it is much more convenient. Also bring warm clothes if staying at the crater rim, it gets cold especially at night, early mornings can also be cool. Other than that sit back and enjoy the professional, personalised, one of a kind service offered by Tanzania-Expeditions.
Asante sana tena!
US
20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Amazing Safari!!
We had an amazing time during our 4 day 3 night safari. We got a chance to see just about everything from cheetahs, rhinos, elephants, and even got to see a lion take down a zebra about 10 meters from the truck! We went to Tarangire National Park, Ngorongoro Crater, and Serengeti National Park. We were able to stay at the Ngorongoro Farm House and Tanganyika Wilderness Camp. Both places had great food and the service was very good as well. At the Ngorongoro Farm House we stayed in a cottage that grew coffee on the property and had a great view of the mountains in the distance. We stayed 2 nights at Tanganyika Wilderness Camp and had a great time while there. Each tent has it's own shower and toilet along with a sink. We are not fans of camping but the Tanganyika Wilderness Camp was great, we would camp every weekend if it was like that.
Our driver, Peter, did an amazing job of driving and spotting all the animals. He did an excellent job with ensuring we got every opportunity to see the animals and made sure we were able to get all the pictures we wanted. We arranged for Tanzania Expeditions to pick us up and drop us off at the airport as well. Justin, the owner, met us at our hotel and made sure we felt at home in Tanzania. He also met us before we departed Tanzania to make sure everything went well with the safari.
I have been lucky enough to travel the world and the safari we took with Tanzania Expeditions will be one of the greatest highlights of our travels. Everything from the accommodations, the animals, and our driver, Peter, with his knowledge and experience made for an outstanding trip we will never forget. If you are looking to take a safari in Tanzania make sure you book it with Tanzania Expeditions.
20-35 years of age | Experience level: over 5 safaris
Most energetic team on Mount Meru!
Two enthusiastic thumbs up to Tanzania Expeditions. Five of us (ranging in age from 10-50+ years) did a 4-day Mount Meru climb. Our group was by far the envy of the mountain, thanks to Tanzania Expeditions' endless energy, humor, encouragement, singing, smiles, and dancing. They're very professionally run, and kept us motivated, laughing, safe, and comfortable throughout the trek (not to mention incredibly well-fed, in terms of both quality and quantity!). We chose them initially because they were the most responsive, thorough, and affordable when soliciting quotes from other companies, and they did not disappoint. I highly recommend Tanzania Expeditions to anyone looking to take in the beauty and the challenge of Mount Meru.
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Email Eric Bowman | 20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Amazing experience and Trip of a Lifetime
We used Tanzania expeditions for the climb up Kili and a 2 day safari and the trip was beyond our wildest imagination. There was four of us total and the guides and porters were just fantastic. Justin set us up with great guides up the mountain. Eric was great at taking care of us throughout the hike, enjoyed all the culture and singing that we brought to the table, and was one of the happiest people I have ever met. We sang, we laughed, the food was incredible. I was a little worried about that, and they blew it out of the water. Mr. Delicious, our cook, made it seem like we were in a 5 star restaurant at every meal. During the hike, you could tell that this group was different than the other companies. The porters seemed much more happy to be there, they weren't loaded down with weight, they sang songs of encouragement as we hiked every day, and each morning we sang songs to get the day started off right. With this company, you get in as much as you put in, saying that if you want to be a hiker, you can be a hiker, but if you want to experience as much culture and meet as many unique and amazing people, this company gives you that opportunity.
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20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Experience of a lifetime!
To say the least, this was the experience of a lifetime. Tanzania Expeditions made this trip the best it could be and surpassed all expectations I had for it. Everyone from the porters to the guides were amazing at all times. Food - Amazing. Hospitality - Amazing. Porters/Guides - Amazing. Whole Trip - Amazing. You can tell that the people working for this company truly love what they do and love making sure their clients enjoy it as much as they do. This is the first and only company I would recommend to anyone traveling to Tanzania!
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Email James | 20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Honestly better than anything I could have expected.
Justin and all the guys at Tanzania Expeditions went above and beyond for both our trek up Kilimanjaro (7-day Lemosho route) and a 2-day camping safari in Ngorongoro Crater and Tarangire National Parks. I went with 3 college friends and we're all active guys in our late 20's and decided against going with one of the more expensive luxury outfitters. What we got was better than anything else we saw on the mountain. The tents were great, the food was plentiful and delicious and, most importantly, the group was so much fun. The guides, Erick and Frank, and all the porters took such great care of us and made sure we had a great time. Their energy was contagious, and it was obvious that we were having more fun than any other groups on the mountain. I would definitely recommend them.
Also, when searching for companies, it was really difficult to find a local outfit in Arusha that seemed legit. Justin's communication was excellent the entire time and I felt really safe going with them as our tour guides on Kilimanjaro as well as our safari outfitters. I wouldn't change a thing, and I hope I can someday go back.
US
20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Absolutely Amazing
In Feb. 2015 I traveled with 3 others to Tanzania for a 7-day trip up Kilimanjaro and a 2-day safari. It was an unbelievable experience with Tanzania Expeditions. The guides and staff were caring and knowledgeable and did everything possible to ensure we had everything we needed and were ok at all times. From the atmosphere the guides and porters created, to the meals we ate, everything was top notch. I truly felt I made friends with everyone who was involved in the trip. I would recommend this company to anyone traveling to Tanzania for a climb or safari.
EG
50-65 years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
"Best Family Vacation Ever" as described by my two teens
We are a family of 4 - including two teenagers. Our 4-day camping safari with Tanzania Expeditions was fantastic from start to finish. Justin was super responsive by email as we made plans, and was helpful every step of the way. Our guide Hilary was knowledgeable, flexible, and did a great job of getting us to some wonderful sitings in Tarangire, Serengeti, and the Ngorongoro Crater; and answered my endless questions about local culture. Dioniz, our cook, prepared beautiful meals at our campsites, and made sure that we all had something to enjoy. We wanted the trip to be a bit rugged - to keep it affordable and give us something to remember. Our two teenagers THANKED us at the end of the trip, saying it was the best family vacation we've done. Huge thanks to Justin and his team for making it wonderful!