"Benson Safaris: Thrilling Adventures Await!"
Benson Safaris Tanzania
- Office 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)
for a custom tour
Your request will be sent directly to the operator
If preferred, you can contact the operator directly
Reviews
US
Email Maggie | 20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
All-Around Impressive and Lovely
We had such an amazing 8-day safari with Benson Safaris. I researched and contacted many operators and knew right away that Benson put a great deal of care and attention to detail to make it a special experience; I'm so happy we went with his company. Every aspect of our trip was top-notch; the safari vehicle was one of the nicest we saw at the parks (very comfortable and clean), the tented lodges were luxurious, and our guide (Max) was tremendous. We had so many incredible moments viewing wildlife and Max knew everything there is to know about anything we asked. We're happy we saw Lake Manyara and Tarangire National Parks (which are just stunning) in addition to Ngorongoro and Serengeti. We also loved the beautiful Lake Natron, but it was very warm in October and a long, bumpy journey. We loved meeting Benson both before and after our trip; he is passionate about making your trip to Tanzania once-in-a-lifetime and you will feel very well looked after on his tours. Thank you for an incredible trip, Benson and Max!
Email Heather | 35-50 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Family trip of a lifetime!
My children and l recently returned from a 5-day trip with Benson Safaris and what fun we had! Every detail was taken care of so we could sit back and enjoy the journey. We went to Tarangire National Park, Ngorongoro Crater and Lake Manyara National Park. Tarangire was our favourite as we were able to get up close and personal with so many elephants! We stayed in lodges and it was great to cool off by the pool at the end of each day. The food was great and our Guide Paul made sure they catered for the kids - no request was too big. Paul was so patient and kind and he was always happy to stop for a toilet break or to find ice cream!
When we were making the booking, Peris in the office suggested we add a few extra days in Arusha at the end of our safari and I'm so glad we did. We relaxed at our hotel and enjoyed some day tours and booked a day safari in the Arusha National Park. We even got to meet Benson himself as he was at our hotel for a meeting!
Thank you Benson Safaris for the trip of a lifetime! We will be back to explore more of your beautiful country.
BR
Email Luiz Guilherme de Mello | 65+ years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
Liberatus is great ! Showed us every animal that we wished to see. All other guides followed him
Our experience was excellent. Our aim was to enjoy the Serengueti/Ngorongoro together with our grand daugthers, who had never travelled abroad. The tour was planned such as to maximize expeditions to see the wild life.
And it was 100% sucessfull.
We saw all animal, most at very short distances, and in a quite environment.
Having said this, we can only thank Benson and Liberatus for having understood our desires and for materializing them..
Email Sally | 50-65 years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
Great way to see Tanzania
We had a really great time with Elly our guide and driver. He took excellent care of us and showed us some of the beautiful and awe-inspiring nature in Tanzania.
SE
Email Adrian Sparrenborn | 35-50 years of age | Experience level: over 5 safaris
Unforgettable Family Adventure with Benson Safaris in Tanzania!
My family, including my wife, 12-year-old daughter, and I, embarked on an incredible safari to Tanzania last November with Benson Safaris, and the experience exceeded all our expectations. Our journey took us through the breathtaking landscapes of Tarangire, Lake Manyara, and the Ngorongoro Crater, and our base at Migombani Campsite, overlooking Lake Manyara, provided the perfect setting for an unforgettable adventure.
From the outset, Benson Safaris impressed us with their exceptional service and high standards. Our guide, a seasoned and safe driver, skillfully navigated the diverse terrains, ensuring our safety while enhancing our wildlife encounters. The camping equipment provided was top-notch, and the full-board arrangement, sometimes as a packed meal for early morning park visits, showcased their commitment to making our experience seamless.
Communication with the team was effortless, and they accommodated our food and beverage preferences with enthusiasm. A notable highlight was the in-vehicle fridge that magically produced ice-cold drinks mid-drive—a welcome touch of luxury in the heart of the wilderness.
A safari is always a game of chance, but with Benson Safaris, luck was on our side. Witnessing baby lions with their mother, cheetahs feasting on a recent kill, a thrilling close encounter with a majestic elephant, and a leopard hunting a baboon during a night drive were just a few of the mesmerizing moments that filled our days.
I highly recommend the extra expense to go on a night drive, which is a unique experience. We opted for a night drive in Lake Manyara, and the rewards were beyond our imagination. The nocturnal activities and the chance to witness the park's transformation under the moonlight added a layer of magic to our safari.
Amid rising costs, Benson Safaris' camping accommodation option emerged as a practical and comfortable choice for our small family. The well-organized setup by the dedicated staff allowed us to immerse ourselves in the adventure, and sleeping in tents added an extra element of excitement to our journey.
In conclusion, I wholeheartedly recommend Benson Safaris to any family seeking to explore the wonders of the African wilderness. Their commitment to excellence, coupled with unforgettable wildlife encounters and a genuine sense of adventure, made our safari an experience of a lifetime. Thank you, Benson Safaris, for crafting memories that will forever hold a special place in our hearts!
CN
Email Leon Zhang | 20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Never disappointed with Benson Safaris
This safari adventure was an absolutely unforgettable experience. Our guide, Liberatus Kessy, who hails from Benson, is not only extremely professional but also boasts over a decade of safari experience. He tirelessly sought out wild animals for us, proving to be the best guide I've ever encountered. His expertise and dedication were evident as we had numerous sightings of lions, as well as the elusive "big five."
As a photographer,I am very eager to take satisfying photos, Liberatus consistently sought out the best angles for me, enabling me to capture many stunning photographs during this tour. The highlights were undoubtedly the breathtaking scenes in Ngorongoro and Ndutu, where the landscapes and wildlife provided a spectacular backdrop for my photography.
I am already looking forward to my next adventure with Benson Safaris and hope to return next year for another incredible experience.
Email Sarah | 50-65 years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
Professional, knowledgeable, experienced, amazing
We were really surprised to see a negative review recently. We had a 17 day Safari with 7 transfers and everything went like clockwork. We had no problems with transfers, park entry or accommodation. We chose a medium accommodation package and were delighted with the quality of accommodation but were even more thrilled by the welcome of all the staff we met along the way. We had a mix of Safari camps and hotels and enjoyed the settings, food and hospitality of all of them. We spent time communicating with Yvlyn who couldn’t have been more helpful and knowledgeable in putting together our itinerary. It felt a bit more risky booking directly with a Tanzanian company (though an annual insurance policy should cover any problems) but both her and Benson’s professionalism was reassuring, and in doing it this way all the money went into the Tanzanian economy not a UK travel agent. Our trip was amazing, the warm welcome we had from our guide Zablon at Arusha airport was lovely after a long flight. Zablon helped us make the most of each destination, his driving was exceptional and his insights into Tanzania brought the holiday to life. We began with relaxing at Tumbili lodge which was an excellent oasis in Arusha. We began our safari adventure in Tarangire staying at Tortillis camp, then onto the unforgettable Ngorongoro Crater an absolute gem of a place with wildlife galore. From there to the Serengeti and GNU Migration camp where we were the only guests and treated like great friends, even by the local zebra and giraffe population. From the Serengeti on to Lake Natron to see the pink flamingos and trek with a Massai guide, finally ending with a few days of luxury at Lake Manyara best view hotel and a visit to Lake Manyara national park. All in all we could not fault Benson and his staff, we had a truly magical holiday.
SI
Email Jozica ~jojo~ | 35-50 years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
Discovering Africa's Beauty and Wildlife
I recently had the pleasure of traveling with Benson Safaris Tanzania, and I can't express enough how amazing our experience was. We just returned home safely from our unforgettable trip to Tanzania Safari and Zanzibar at the beginning of January. This journey left us with cherished memories that will last a lifetime.
One of the highlights of our trip was visiting the Ndutu National Park. The sheer beauty and serenity of this place left me in awe. We also had the opportunity to explore the Serengeti and Tarangire, both of which were truly magnificent.
What made our experience truly exceptional was the unexpected surprise organized by Benson Safaris of my Boyfriend birthday. We had no idea about their plans, and it turned out to be an incredible surprise. The entire staff at Ndutu Safari Lodge came together to celebrate his birthday with us, and the experience was heartwarming. I was moved to tears by their genuine warmth and the beautiful singing.
Africa has always held a special place in my heart, and this trip reaffirmed my love for this continent. The connection to nature, the wildlife, and the people of Tanzania is something I will forever treasure.
Our guide, Zablon, deserves a special mention. His wealth of knowledge about the wildlife and the local ecosystems added a whole new layer of depth to our safari experience. Zablon's passion for wildlife was evident in every moment we spent with him, and his dedication to ensuring we had the best possible experience was truly commendable.
I would also like to express my gratitude to Benson, the owner of Benson Safaris, for taking the time to personally meet us upon our arrival. His warm welcome and friendly demeanor immediately made us feel like part of the Benson Safaris family. As an extra surprise, he generously gifted us with a kilo of coffee from his own farm. The coffee is not only delicious but also organic, reflecting his commitment to quality and sustainability.
In conclusion, I truly recommendet Benson!
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