Team Shemeji Safari Tanzania
Shemeji Safari Tanzania
- Office In:
- Size:
- 10-20 employees (Founded in 2015)
- Tour Types:
- Customizable private tours and fixed group tours
- Destinations:
- Price Range:
- $180 to $800 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
VN
Email Mariusz Steckiewicz | 35-50 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Memorable safari with terrible ending
We have booked a 7-day safari with Shemeji. It was our first trip to Africa and the first safari experience, therefore we didn't really know what to expect therefore decided to rely entirely on a local provider. We found Shemeji on the internet and it caught our attention because it had an excellent rating as well the offer matched to what we were looking for.
We believed an experienced service operator would know exactly what they were selling and would assume responsibility for the events happening during the trip. Well, it appeared we were wrong about it.
Firstly, we would like to shout huge thank you and express endless gratitude to the guide/driver Elemes and the chef Isaack, who did absolutely everything and more to make our trip comfortable and memorable. These two gentlemen service was 5-star throughout our entire tour. Always smiling and always helpful, they made our trip successful within all their capacity.
However, what made us give Shemeji 1 start is the company management approach to the problems we faced.
We had to pay 100% in advance, which is understandable but they added 5% to the price if the payment is by a credit card. This is not a standard procedure as in the hotel we were not charged extra to the card payment.
As mentioned earlier, we relied on the local operators, expecting them to know the situation better than us coming from another continent.
Out trip didn't start very well, as the car was delayed on the first day already due to technical problems. The second day the car got stuck in the mud for over 2 hours on the campsite just before leaving for the safari drive.
Not only our trip was again delayed but also a car of another couple whose staff was trying to help our driver. The quality of the car we got was rather poor but we accepted it as we didn't mind the conform as long as the safety wouldn't be compromised. We trusted the company did treat the safety of their clients and the staff seriously.
One part of our adventure was the visit to Lake Natron going from Serengeti. Due to the heavy rain, the roads and bridges were cut off and we were forced to turn back, which resulted in driving again through Serengeti.
We did understand the weather unpredictability and followed the situation without complaints. However, later on, we have learned that Lake Natron, during the rain, is dangerous and we shouldn’t go there. I would think a local company would know that during the rainy season rain comes rather frequently and either shouldn't include this point in their itinerary or would have advised us on the potential risk beforehand. But instead, they have sold the trip without any notice.
Somewhere on the way, it happened that the car got a flat tire, which again we understood and didn't complain about it either.
On our way back through Serengeti the car got seriously broken. Our rear wheel fell off. The same wheel as the one which got a flat tire a day or two earlier. This was a very scary situation as we were driving at quite high speed and we realized how lucky we were that the car didn't rollover.
This accident caused a very long time delay and we have lost an entire day of our planned trip waiting for another transportation to take us back to some accommodation, in addition to quite a traumatic experience of seeing our car's wheel rolling ahead of the car.
Later on, we have also learned that after the wheel was fixed and the car was on its returning way it had broken again, which made me doubt in the technical conditions of the car. Is the company truly investing in car maintenance and the clients' safety or is purely focused on sale and profit?
The last day was entirely lost and the next day was too short to fill it with what we have in our plans. We had to return to the campsite and just spent last night in the same place we started, which was not according to our purchased package. The company offered a visit to Maasai Village, which was the only option to do, even though it was not of our interest initially.
We were never demanding and stayed the entire trip very understanding, knowing that the weather conditions cannot be planned, however, the plans we badly affected and we expected the company to take responsibility for the trip they have sold and at least correct the price according to what we have received.
To our surprise Emma, one of the owners (according to our understanding) rejected all the claims, stating that they did us a favor not requesting us to pay extra for the park fees which we had to drive again through, pushing all the responsibility to the weather conditions.
We were also told that the operator had to pay the accommodation booking fees in advance, even though we have found out that the accommodation places and the tour operator belong to the same corporate group.
This was a very disappointing end of our trip.
From 7 days safari that we paid for, we have received actually not even full 6 days. We experience a very dangerous incident and we were left with the impression that we should be grateful that we were not requested to pay extra. This was not what we have imagined from a professional, 5-star rated tour operator.
The safari was great and the guide and the chef service was top notch but if you consider buying a service from Shemeji you may think twice and pay for everything in advance regardless what the trip brings, as you will be charged and given responsibility for everything that happens during your trip.
Reply from Shemeji Safari Tanzania
Posted on Feb 22, 2020To Mariusz and Phuong,
In your first e-mail you write beautiful words about our company: I quote from your e-mail:
“We are back to Arusha now. We want to thank you for the arrangement of the trip. It was truly memorable experience which we will keep in our hearts forever.
It was unfortunate however that due to weather conditions we had to change the route of the trip and vehicle failure which caused us lose entire day of the planned activities.
We understand this was unintentional, however, it did cut the trip from 7 days to actually 6 days experience. Therefore we need to ask you for the price correction and refund ro reflect the actual value of our trip.”
Only after we have denied your refund due to the fact that the reasons where beyond our control (weather conditions) you and your partner decided to write a most damaging review about our company which in our opinion doesn’t reflect the actual situation.
Our company paid usd 330,- extra in parkfee’s (which we didn’t charge to you), offered an alternative activity for the last day (which you happily accepted) and we gave a free room upgrade on the last night but none of this is mentioned in your review.
We understand your disappointment by we did our best in a fair way for both parties to solve the issues that have occurred. Our team always works hard to make sure our clients get the best experience and we would never put clients in any unsafe situation. We wouldn’t have so many good reviews if our company didn’t work hard and took care of our guests.
PT
Email Margarida | 50-65 years of age | Experience level: first safari
An unforgettable experience
Everything went well. The communication was good, the suggested accommodations corresponded to what we intended and glamping is a very interesting economic alternative. Our guide Good Living was fantastic and provided us with a wonderful experience.
Without any doubt, I would re-book with Shemeji Safari Tanzania
JP
Email Masato | 20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Great experience!!!
First of all, I appreciated with Edward who was our guide.
He was so kindness and friendly!!
And I had so great experience.
I could see so many animals, great view, touch different culture...
HU
Email Kata J | 20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
3 Days Tanzania safari- a lifetime experience
The safari tour to Tanzania was booked in advance. We flew to Arusha, where our safari guide waited for us with a name plate. He was unfortunately a bit ill, so he organized, to cheange him. At a gas station, our new guide was waiting for us. It was a very good decision, we loved our new guide. And then started for the first national park. In 3 days we were in 3 national parks, Tarangire, Ngorongoro and last day Lake Manyara. Each National Park is famous for something else, so we selected it to see everything (elephants, giraffes, lions, monkeys, hippo, zebras, wildebeests, buffalos, rhinoceros and countless birds). We spent the nights in the same luxury campsite, the Safari Company's own accommodation. The tents are in a huge wooded garden with small winding paths between them. The staff waited us every day with fresh friut juices, and the food was impeccable. Our guide responded immediately to all of our requests, dealt with just us within 3 days, and answered all of our questions. For anyone who goes to the other end of the world, it's a sin to miss out a safari tour,it was a lifelong, indescribable experience.
Great safari experience
Shemeji planned a fun, comprehensive itinerary showcasing Tanzania's national parks, tribal cultures, and local economy. Our guide, David, was knowledgeable about the parks and animals and had a keen eye for spotting game in the bush. Our accommodations & dining each day were quite comfortable and we especially enjoyed the ingenuity of the Serengeti bush camps. I would be happy to recommend booking a trip with Shemeji to family and friends that wish to visit Tanzania.
SK
Email Peter | 35-50 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Absolutely simple safe true and joyful cooperation.
Absolutely simple safe true and joyful cooperation with Shemeji Safari Tanzania operator. Payment seamless secure via bank transfer in Europe. 6-Day Manyara, Tarangire, Serengeti & Ngorongoro Lodge - price reasonable, fully corresponding to the services provided. We were a group of 4 adults and 3 girls 17 years old. The whole stay, from the first minute to the last, was exactly, clearly, organized, without a single mistake (difficulties). Despite 6 days of driving in the car, nobody could complain and even bored at all (even teenagers were excidet !!!). Also the food (full board) on all days was excellent, adequate, digestible (even for girls - teenagers :-) ). Bathrooms and toilets in the accommodation and during the day in the center of the bush were without any problems and incredibly clean (even the pampered girls-teenagers were surprised and satisfied :-) ) !!!.
The guide/driver was professionally experienced, responsible, always tried to satisfy us at all times. He was constantly communicating with other colleagues in the safari park and we always got to the right place in time to see the animals close up.
Thanks to him, we could see and meet at very close range (1 to 5 meters): lions (male and female), leopards, cheetahs, jackal, crocodiles, large lizard, many elephants, buffalos, hippos, various large birds, and countless antelopes, zebras and wildebeests. We could even take photos 2 black and 5 white rhinos from a relatively comfortable distance.
Needless to worry about how to survive 5-6 days on safari. Every park is different and always interesting. Time will pass very quickly. There is no need to worry about boredom, dirt, insects, danger. I recommend carrying binoculars and sunglasses (wind and dust when driving with the opern roof). There is (in Europe) very wrong information about tipping. The situation is that everyone can or does not have to give a tip in accommodation and restaurants, nothing is compulsory and nobody requires anything.
Nevertheless, it is advisable to bring cash: dollars or local currency in small value banknotes (min 5-10, -USD / person / day), suitable for souvenir, photos, evening drinks ...).
Wherever we spent some time in the 6 day safari, people were very kind, friendly and willing to help.
Overall, I rate Shemeji Safari Tanzania as a fully professional, hassle-free and secure organization, which I can, with a clear conscience, recommend to anyone (including families with teenagers).
Finally, do not hesitate! Order a safari now! there is nothing to worry about and the experience will be invaluable !!!
Email Julie | 35-50 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Amazing Experience
We enjoyed every moment of our Safari. Pemba our guide was so knowledgeable about everything from the animals, to the landscape, history of the country, birds etc. There wasn't anything he didn't know.
We saw the big 5 but went with no expectation to. I would recommend this to anyone
ES
Email Dunia | 20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
It was incredible! They were friendly and very attentive with us.
Our expectations of the safari tour were overtaken! It was a perfect and very familiar trip. Very well prepared tour. Our guide Michael was always willing to show us all the animals we wanted to see, and he was satisfying us with everything we asked to do. He is really passionate with safaries and animals, and that motivated us even more. And our cook Godson has super good cooking skills and he was delighting us with delicious meals, and also being very friendly with us.
The safari tour was simply perfect. We would even like to repeat!
IN
Email Jayadrath | 20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Out of the world experience!
The planning was hassle free though over email. Right from pick-up to drop off everything was well arranged and they went the extra mile to see no discomfort is experienced.
Out driver and guide had good knowledge of the park and good sense where game was or can be spotted. He was polite and helpful.
We got to see all animals in a matter of 3 days plus it was great weather (no rains in wet season- so lucky). This kind of destination requires someone like Shemeji to make it all worth it.
AT
Email Stefan | 20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Great operator for our tanzanian experience.
We really enjoyed our safari! Everything was great including the communication with Shemeji.
From the beginning a driver was waiting outside the airport, the camps were clean, the staff very friendly and Edward was a great driver. He knows a lot about the parks so we had the best chance to see the big five.
Thank you for the perfect organisation! I am glad that we booked by Shemeji!
