"Benson Safaris: Thrilling Adventures Await!"
Benson Safaris Tanzania
- Located In:
- Size:
- 10-20 employees (Founded in 2006)
- Member Of:
- TATO, TTB & IGS
- Tour Types:
- Custom mid-range & luxury tours that can start every day
- Destinations:
- Price Range:
- $300 to $1,200 per person per day (USD, excl. int'l flights)
Reviews
A Heartwarming Safari Adventure with Benson Safaris Tanzania
I am writing to express my deepest appreciation for the incredible safari experience you provided to my family and me during our Christmas trip in December. Our guide, Amini, played a pivotal role in making our adventure unforgettable, and the accommodations, particularly at Maramboi, were nothing short of magical. Additionally, meeting Benson, the owner, added a personal touch that made our journey even more special.
Travelling with my children, my goal was to create lasting memories, and Benson Safaris not only met but exceeded our expectations. Amini, our guide, was exceptional in every sense. His expertise, passion, and warmth made the safari a cherished family experience. Amini went above and beyond to ensure that my children were not only entertained but also educated about the wonders of Tanzania's wildlife.
The choice of accommodations, including the Tented Camps and Lodges, significantly contributed to the overall enjoyment of our trip. However, Maramboi stands out as a highlight that will forever be etched in our memories. Witnessing elephants enjoying a swim while we relaxed by the pool was a surreal and breathtaking moment. The unique blend of luxury and nature at Maramboi added an extra layer of enchantment to our stay.
Meeting Benson, the owner of the company, was a delightful surprise and a testament to the personal touch that sets Benson Safaris apart. Benson's passion for his work, evident in the care and attention to detail throughout our journey, was truly commendable. His generous gift of 1 kilo of organic coffee beans, sourced from his own farm, showcased not only his commitment to quality but also his genuine hospitality. It was a heartwarming gesture that added a unique and personal touch to our safari experience.
In conclusion, I can't thank Benson Safaris enough for turning our Christmas safari into a dream come true for my children. The personalized touch, Amini's exceptional guidance, the captivating accommodations, and the warm encounter with Benson created memories that will last a lifetime. I wholeheartedly recommend Benson Safaris to anyone seeking an extraordinary and family-friendly safari experience.
Thank you once again for the exceptional journey.
GR
Email NIKI | 35-50 years of age | Experience level: first safari
it was the worst trip we have ever had in our lives
It was the worst experience I have ever had in my life. I booked the safari at last minute but we had already done a program 1 month ago. 2 days before the safari the called me and they told me that they didn't count the concession fees and the price had to be more. I told them that this is not my problem and suddently they didn't answer my emails and phone. The evening before we arrived in Arusha they sent me a message that they will be waiting for me at the airport. Then we went to Mr Benson's office I showed the emails and the offer and after 2-3 hours they told me that we are ok. So I lost 3-4 hours from the evening safari they supposed they gave us. On the way to our hotel they sent me a program with minus 1 day and they told me this is a program. I sent them back the program I have showed them previous at the office and told me that this is not ok. After 30-40 what's up messages and email they told me again ok. The safari in Serengeti for 2 days was good. After we have planned to move to Maasai Mara region and another driver took us from there. The drive supposed to be there from the morning and I paid 250$ more to be there and he came after 3 hours. They asked me for yellow card visa to pay 200$ as the other offices told me that the cost was 80$ for all of us and the driver told us that the officers wanted and tips. The transfer to Maasai Mara supposed to be 35' and took us 3 hours so the park was closed. The driver asked us to give tomorrow 200$ more to bring us to Maasai Mara park and when I told that I have paid for 4 days safari and I have only done 2 he told me that this is not his problem and he couldn't take us to the park in the morning. Yvlyn the girl from the office told him to bring us to the park and he did it but again with a lot of messages and calls and I terrible headache for me from this bad situation. The following day after 1.5h safari to Maasai Mara they had to transfer as at Nairobi and Giraffe manor. The driver stopped every 50km and talked with people on the road and he told us that it's like that in his country. He knew that we wanted to be early to our hotel and suddenly he told us that his car has a problem and he had to transfer us to another car. I asked him if the car is ready and he told us yes. We went to a place 150km away from Nairobi and the car was not there. The driver got down of the car and we were trying to find him. after 20' he answered the phone and he told us that the car that was ready changed the tires. He took us in one place that was inappropriate for my family as I have 2 kids and we waited for the another driver to change the tires for more that 1.30. Finally we started the way to Giraffe manor and because he did some mistakes as he didn't know how to get there we went to our hotel at 16.00 in the evening. We started from Maasai Mara at 09.30 and the distance is only 4 hours. So I totally didn't recommend Benson's Safari as it was the worst trip we have ever had in our lives and thanks god that we are all back safe after all this terrible situation.
Reply from Benson Safaris Tanzania
Posted on Jan 14, 2024Dear Niki,
I trust this message finds you well and thank you for the feedback..
I'd like to provide some clarification regarding the Tanzania and Kenya safari package you initially inquired about, and the subsequent changes in your travel plans.
When you first started inquiring about the safari package, the estimated cost was around 12,000 euros. After several email exchanges, you decided to cancel the trip, informing us that you chose not to travel. This decision was communicated towards the beginning of December.
However, in a last-minute turn of events on the 26th Dec, you expressed interest in proceeding with the same safari package around the same time. You mentioned that you only wanted to hire our car and guide, as you had already booked accommodations and claimed to have paid for everything, indicating that you were ready to go. However, after many calls to your hotels, we found out that only the arrival hotel was paid, and none of your hotels in Serengeti and Kenya were settled. Please note: you were traveling on the 31st Dec, 2023. Also, you made delays in your payment and received your payment on the 31st Dec evening with lots of discussion, as you also didn't want to pay the whole amount. The same situation occurred on the Kenya side, making it hard for us to know your location as you didn’t book and pay for this accommodation on time, causing discomfort and miscommunication.
To facilitate your booking, we requested the confirmation booking forms for your hotels. Unfortunately, these forms were not provided until your arrival. Upon inquiry with the hotels, it was revealed that none of the accommodations had been paid for. This presented challenges for us in processing your park fees, as the confirmation of accommodation is essential for allocating payment for concession fees.
Additionally, when you arrived to travel with us, you had only booked transport, a guide, and park fees with Benson Safaris. The total payment for the car hire, guide, and park fees amounted to 5100 USD. The accommodation arrangements were made independently. This decision, while within your rights, introduced complexities that contributed to the delays in processing park fees and entering the parks.
The delay in paying for accommodations caused a ripple effect, resulting in a delayed start to your safari. Instead of commencing your days with exhilarating game drives, we had to initiate paperwork processes to enter the parks due to the outstanding payments for accommodations.
We had previously discussed the importance of timely payments and coordination for a seamless safari experience. Unfortunately, the delays in payment and paperwork impacted the smooth flow of the planned itinerary.
I wanted to provide this context to ensure transparency and understanding of the challenges faced during the booking and operational processes. Your feedback is invaluable, and we are committed to addressing these issues to enhance our services in the future.
If you have any further questions or concerns, please feel free to reach out. We appreciate your understanding and hope to continue improving our services for the benefit of all our clients
Best regards, Benson
Managing Director
DE
Email Andi&Andrea | 50-65 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Very well organized tour with a very friendly and competently staff
We went for a 3-day safari game with Benson Safaris. The booking precedure was very easy and uncompleceted. We always got an answer very quickly, if we had a question. Our guide, Elly was excellent, he did everything to make for us these days unforgettable. All the lodges Benson us offered were amazing. We really appraciate the great job of the whole staff we can warmly recommend. We look forward to enjoy our next trip in Tanzania with Benson Safaris.
Email Yajie | 20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Super Responsive Operator
From the very start of the organisation, Yvlyn was super responsive and customised all my requirements into the itinerary for us. Our guide Zablon was very patient with us during the journey and always found the good spots for photography. There were very long driving from Karatu up to Northern Serengeti within one day but Zablon kept us well cared for. As a suggestion, we would suggest flight for one way instead of driving for both ways.
The lodges we stayed were amazing with superb views and friendly staffs. Overall, We had a lovely and unforgettable 6-day journey.
PT
Email Julio | 35-50 years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
The best safary company in Africa
On this trip with BENSON SAFARI we have no doubt we where on best vehicle and the best guide. No other in Ngorongoro was better. We had one of the amazing days of our lifes. We've cried of happiness and emotion. We saw all the animals. No words can express the gratitude we have with BENSON SAFARI. Look no more. Go ahead and book it with BENSON.
CH
Email Cristina | 35-50 years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
The most amazing memorable experience
Excellence. Everything was organized down to the detail with sympathy. I went alone with a 6 year old child, felt safe and taken care of eveywhere, not only from the safari organization, but also the different hostings along the way. From the beginning the responsiveness was immediate, transparent and well-rounded options. Our super knowledgable guide was flexible and we felt at home. What an adventure, we loved it ! Special thanks to Yvlyn and Zablon, who took great care of us.
Reply from Benson Safaris Tanzania
Posted on Sep 8, 2023Dear Cristina,
Thank you so much for taking the time to share your incredible experience with us. Your feedback warms our hearts and motivates us to continue providing memorable adventures to our clients.
We are delighted to hear that your safari experience with us was not only amazing but also safe and enjoyable, especially when traveling with a young child. Ensuring the comfort and well-being of our guests is a top priority, and we're thrilled that you felt taken care of throughout your journey.
It's wonderful to know that you appreciated the attention to detail and organization of your safari. Our team takes great pride in planning every aspect of the trip to perfection, and your words of appreciation mean a lot to us.
We're also pleased to hear that our responsiveness, transparency, and flexibility met your expectations. We understand that every traveler has unique needs and preferences, and we aim to tailor our services accordingly.
Your kind words about our knowledgeable guide are greatly appreciated. Our guides are passionate about sharing their expertise and making sure guests feel at home in the wilderness.
We will certainly pass on your special thanks to our team who played a vital role in ensuring your safari was a success. They are dedicated to providing exceptional service, and your recognition is well-deserved.
Once again, thank you for choosing us for your safari adventure, and we hope to have the pleasure of hosting you and your 6-year-old on another memorable journey in the future. If you ever decide to explore more of the world's wonders, please don't hesitate to reach out.
Wishing you many more incredible adventures ahead!
Warm regards, Benson
Managing Director
Small but experienced tour operator going beyond your expectations to ensure best Safari experience
The people at Benson Safari went the extra mile to ensure that the itinerary for the Safari was up to our expectations and fulfilled our desires. We wanted to see diverse flora and encounter various animals, including birds, throughout the country, as well as walking, boat and jeep safari.
We visited the Jozani Forest, the Nyerere National Park, the Tarangire National Park, the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, the Serengeti (Ndutu, Central and Western corridor), and the Lake Manyara region. Each Park is characterized by a unique landscape and different animals. Be mindful of that while planning your itinerary.
As a photographer, we had special needs for our equipment, and we wanted to go to our own pace, not feeling pressured by our guide or other travelers. Benson Safari planned with us a personalized and unique itinerary just for the two of us. We had responsive and honest communications throughout the planning and while on safari. They delivered beyond our expectations: we had no hurdles, we felt safe, the car was in good condition with spare tires and winch to be prepared for any eventualities, and our guide, Paul, was knowledgeable of the animals’ behaviors and the environment of the parks we were visiting. Paul was friendly, flexible, resourceful and made us feel safe.
If we have any suggestions for other travelers, it would be to be patient while on the look out for animals (you are not in a zoo), bring a camera and a book to take notes on the animals you will see, be aware that you travel on dirt roads that can be bumpy and dusty at time (max 50 km/hr), and days are long so prepare accordingly.
Reply from Benson Safaris Tanzania
Posted on Sep 8, 2023Dear Marie,
Thank you for taking the time to share your fantastic safari experience with Benson Safaris. We are thrilled to hear that your safari exceeded your expectations and that we were able to create a personalized itinerary that catered to your specific interests and needs.
Exploring Tanzania's diverse flora and encountering a wide array of animals, including birds, in different national parks is indeed an incredible experience. We appreciate your understanding of the unique landscapes and animal behavior in each park, which can vary greatly.
As a photographer, your equipment and the ability to set your own pace were crucial, and we are delighted to have accommodated your needs. We take pride in ensuring that our guests feel safe, comfortable, and well-prepared for their safari adventures.
We're thrilled to hear your positive feedback about our guide, Paul. He is a valuable member of our team, and his knowledge of animal behavior and the park environments is exceptional. Paul's friendly and flexible approach aligns perfectly with our commitment to providing an outstanding safari experience.
Your helpful suggestions for other travelers are greatly appreciated. Being patient while on the lookout for animals, bringing a camera and notes, and preparing for bumpy roads and long days are valuable insights that will enhance future travelers' experiences.
Once again, thank you for choosing Benson Safaris Tanzania for your safari adventure. We are grateful for your kind words and look forward to the opportunity to welcome you back for more unforgettable journeys in the future. If you have any further questions or need assistance with future plans, please feel free to reach out.
Warm regards, Benson
Managing Director
NL
Email Jurre L | under20 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Amazing safari august 2023
We had an amazing trip thanks to Benson and our personal guide Amini. We enjoyed the Serengeti, Ngorongoro crater, Tarangire and had a fun day exploring the Marangu waterfalls and coffee processing at the foot of the Kilimanjaro. We slept in really nice accommodations for the whole week and even saw a hippo outside of our tent. Benson and his crew have always been really nice to us and were always ready to help arrange our perfect holiday. It was a trip to never forget. Thanks again to Benson and Amini.
Reply from Benson Safaris Tanzania
Posted on Sep 8, 2023Dear Jurre,
Thank you so much for sharing your incredible safari experience with us. We are thrilled to hear that you had an amazing trip in August 2023, and we greatly appreciate your kind words.
It brings us immense joy to know that you enjoyed exploring the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire, and the Marangu waterfalls while also experiencing the fascinating coffee processing at the foot of Kilimanjaro. Tanzania offers a wealth of natural beauty and cultural richness, and it sounds like you had a well-rounded and memorable adventure.
We at Benson Safaris Tanzania are delighted that you had the opportunity to stay in excellent accommodations throughout your journey and even had a close encounter with a hippo outside your tent. It's these unique moments that make a safari truly special.
At Benson Safaris Tanzania, we are committed to providing our clients with exceptional service, and we're thrilled to hear that you found our team, including Amini, to be accommodating and helpful in arranging your perfect holiday. Amini is a valuable member of our team, and we will be sure to pass on your appreciation to him.
Your kind words and appreciation mean the world to us, and we hope that the memories of this unforgettable trip will stay with you for a lifetime. If you ever decide to embark on another adventure, please don't hesitate to reach out. We would be honored to be a part of your future travel experiences.
Once again, thank you for choosing Benson Safaris Tanzania, and we wish you many more incredible journeys in the years to come.
Warm regards, Benson
Managing Director
NL
Email Miranda | 50-65 years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
It was very well orginized.
I did not want to book through a Europian touroperator. I wanted to keep my money in Africa for our safari. It worked out very well trough booking Benson safaris. We made agreements about paying this trip and everything worked out fine. Our driver Amini was at the airport and he was our guide all week. He was always smiling and he learned us a lot about wildlife. We were extremly satisfied about our safari and about the other things we did during our stay in Tanzania. Do not hesitate to book Benson safaris.
Reply from Benson Safaris Tanzania
Posted on Sep 8, 2023Dear Miranda,
Thank you so much for taking the time to share your wonderful experience with Benson Safaris Tanzania! We are thrilled to hear that your safari in Tanzania exceeded your expectations and that you had such a positive experience with us.
It's fantastic to hear that you appreciated our commitment to supporting the local economy in Africa and that the booking process went smoothly. Amini, your driver and guide, is indeed one of our greatest assets, and we're glad to hear that he made your safari enjoyable and educational.
Your kind words and recommendation mean a lot to us, and we look forward to welcoming you back on another memorable safari adventure in the future. If you have any friends or family considering a safari in Tanzania, please don't hesitate to recommend Benson Safaris Tanzania to them as well. We wish you many more incredible adventures in the future!
Please stay safe.
Kind regards, Benson
Managing Director
NO
Email Cato | 50-65 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Highly professional operator really caring about it’s customers
We were a party of 14 (age between 1- and 61 years) and although our expectations were high, the experience exceeded it all by far. We went to Ngorongoro and Serengeti for 5 days. The scenary was increadible and getting so close to the wildlife is something we will never forget. We saw all the animals we wanted at close range - including the big5, and unexpectedly came across the start of the big migration.
From the first day we contacted Benson we felt in good hands. Very helpful and supportive front desk, a personal involvement from the owner, and friendly and extremely knowledgable guides in Yonas and Zablon, resulted in 6 days without any problems where all went according to plan. Accomodations picked by Benson was lovely and the food at the lodges superb. The only regret is that we should have had more days in order to better enjoy the great facilities at the lodges.
Reply from Benson Safaris Tanzania
Posted on Sep 8, 2023Dear Cato,
Thank you very much for your heartfelt review and for choosing us for your safari adventure! We are absolutely delighted to hear that your experience with Benson Safaris Tanzania not only met but exceeded your expectations.
It's wonderful to know that you and your group, spanning different age groups, had such an incredible time in Ngorongoro and Serengeti. Witnessing the wildlife up close and even witnessing the beginning of the big migration must have been truly remarkable.
We take great pride in providing a seamless and enjoyable experience from the very beginning, and we're thrilled that you felt in good hands right from your initial contact with us. Your kind words about our front desk, owner's personal involvement, and our guides Yonas and Zablon mean a lot to us. We'll make sure to pass on your appreciation to them.
We understand your regret about not having more time to fully enjoy the lodge facilities, and we hope that it means you'll consider returning for another safari adventure in the future. We would be honored to have you and your group back with us for more unforgettable moments. Thank you once again for your trust and for sharing your fantastic experience with us!
Kind regards, Benson
Managing Director