Lion King Safari Guides
Lion King Adventures
- Offices In:
-
Canada
United States
Switzerland
- Size:
- 20-50 employees (Founded in 2010)
- Member Of:
- TATO & TTB
- Tour Types:
- Custom mid-range & luxury tours that can start every day
- Destinations:
- Price Range:
- $200 to $1,115 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 Don Hickethier | 50-65 years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
A trip of a lifetime: Tanzania safari adventures and Zanzibar relaxation
We started 2024 with an amazing 9 day/8 night safari adventure in some of Tanzania's wonderful game reserves and ended with a few relaxing days in Zanzibar.
Preparations:
Maria and Nickson were wonderful to work with as we arranged the pre-trip details. After a few revisions of the normal Lion King packages Maria put together a wonderful adventure safari package that included tent camping in Tarangire and igloos at the Panorama Safari Camp. She made the flight reservations for us from Arusha to Zanzibar as well as all reservations and transportation arrangements in Zanzibar. Nickson then made sure all the trip details were secured and kept us informed of all the preparations we needed prior to our adventure. I felt they both did a wonderful job with communication and making sure the trip was what we were looking for. We ended up with one night in Arusha upon arrival, 3 1/2 days safari, one night in Stone Town and 3 1/2 days on the beach.
The Trip:
Day 1: After the 28 hour trip from the US (auugghh) the accommodations and people at the Arusha Planet Lodge gave us the perfect opportunity to rest up before the real adventure began.
Days 2-5: The next morning we were greeted by Gama, our guide and driver for the next 3 1/2 days. If you ever have a choice, request Gama. I seriously cannot give enough praise for Gama. He was personable, knowledgeable, fun and most importantly, wanted us to have a wonderful experience. After a quick drive through Arusha to pick up supplies and our chef Karim, aka Mr. Delicious (yes, 3 freshly prepared meals a day were part of the safari package), we headed to Tarangire National Park for lunch and an afternoon safari drive. During that initial drive we saw nearly all the African wildlife one could ever wish for, even a leopard. Short a Cape Buffalo and Rhino the big 5 was nearly checked off the first day out. After a wonderful dinner we slept in tents in the national park. Quite the experience to have elephants stomping and grunting and to hear lions roaring not far from the tent. The next day was rainy, but we still did a half day drive and saw the Cape Buffalo (4 of 5 down) and witnessed giraffes fighting for male dominance. Next stop Panorama Safari Camp for two nights in the igloos, very simple and more secure than tents in the park. After a morning adventure of getting stuck in the mud and a subsequent team effort to get unstuck, we made it to Ngorongoro. Driving down into the crater and seeing all the animals in their own ecosystem had to be one of the highlights of the trip. With the late start we saw a number of lions strategically resting up for the evening hunt as well as 7 different rhinos. Big 5 complete. After returning to Panorama for the night we spent part of the next day visiting Lake Manyara before heading back to Arusha for our flight to Zanzibar and the Maru Maru Hotel in Stone Town.
Day 6: After a wonderful dinner (no more Karim to make our amazing food) and a night at the Maru Maru Hotel we spent the morning exploring the spice market and wandered around Stone Town. That afternoon we were driven to the Shooting Star Boutique Hotel.
Days 7-9: Beach time and relaxation. The Shooting Star had nice bungalows with private patios and an infinity pool looking over the beach. Three days of walking the beach and enjoying the coast. It was not part of the travel package, but we did go on a snorkel tour near Mnemba Island and a Spice Tour the last day before heading to the airport for the 24 hr return flight (auughh).
Summary:
What a trip! Lion King Adventures did a wonderful job making this visit a once in a lifetime event. Other than getting stuck in the mud, which only added to the adventure, everything went exactly as planned by Lion King. We could not be happier with the entire trip. If you get the chance, try to get Gama as your guide. He is amazing.
P.S. We have some amazing photos, but after a couple attempts I was not able to upload the pics.
CH
Email Sandra Rudolph | 35-50 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Our safari with Shafino exceeded expectations, providing unforgettable wildlife experiences
From start to finish, our safari with guide Shafino was an exceptional experience that far exceeded all our expectations. From the detailed planning of our tour on-site, Shafino demonstrated great commitment by specifically asking about our wishes. Our children dreamed of seeing lions and zebras, I wanted to witness the impressive migration, and my husband had a cheetah on his wish list. It was incredible for us how Shafino managed not only to fulfill all these wishes but even to surpass them, allowing us the fortune of seeing the Big 9.
Shafino's knowledge of wildlife as well as flora and fauna is impressive. With ease, he imparts his extensive knowledge, enriched with exciting fun facts and valuable experiences he has gathered over the years. His stories and explanations made every encounter with nature both educational and entertaining.
Our kids really liked him and were fascinated by the stories and fun facts. His connections to the people in the region, his commitment to assist with challenges like a flat tire or obstacles in the way, and the respect he receives from other guides impressed us.
Every one of our wishes was seen by Shafino as his mission, which made our experience incomparable. My highlight was the drive through the migration of thousands of animals – an overwhelming moment. A once-in-a-lifetime experience that one never forgets.
Upon my spontaneous request to visit a local market, Shafino immediately responded and led us through the bustling activity, giving us an authentic insight into local life, which as tourists, one rarely gets.
For anyone wanting to deeply dive into the world of wildlife, flora, and fauna while experiencing a true adventure, I recommend Shafino 120%. His professionalism, extensive knowledge, and personal dedication make a safari with him an unforgettable experience.
Visiting the Datoga and Hadzabe tribes marked the conclusion of our journey. Under the expert guidance of guide Rama, who spent his childhood among the Datogas and learned the Hadzabe click language, we were allowed to immerse ourselves in a world that impresses with its original simplicity and contentment. This experience, to witness a life of such authentic purity still existing today, we owe to Rama. A heartfelt thank you for this unforgettable experience, which will remain in the memories of us and our children forever.
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Email Charlotte Wright | 20-35 years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
The best choice!
Our experience with Lion King and Salehe Kimosa as our guide for our honeymoon went above and beyond anything we could’ve dreamt up! We know from experience that searching and deciding on the right safari tour is a long search - stop your search NOW and book this trip! Choosing to go on this trip was a huge financial decision for us (as I’m sure it is for many reading this now!) but it was SO worth every single penny. We will remember this trip forever and cherish everything we learned and experienced. We picked Lion King for its great reviews and the fact that it is completely run by Tanzanian staff and family owned by a former safari guide (and we had the pleasure of meeting him and his son on New Years Eve at Nyota Luxury Camp! He is absolutely wonderful and so committed to making sure his guests have the best experience!). We were so glad we made this big decision from the very beginning - communication with Lion King was so thorough and timely before the trip. We received all the details we needed and were easily able to make a few adjustments before the trip (added another day in the Serengeti). After being there, it is so clear that the itinerary is very thoughtful. As a couple who loves to travel and usually plans everything themselves, it was amazing to have everything planned so beautifully by Lion Kong and not have to worry about one detail for our honeymoon. There’s always anxiety before a trip - especially such a big one, but Lion King and Salehe made this a completely stress-free and relaxing experience.
Now about our AMAZING guide, Salehe Kimosa. From the minute we met him I knew we’d have an awesome trip! He is everything an expert guide should be and more - super friendly and personable, so smart and knowledgeable about all the animals and plants/trees and an incredible navigator and driver (which we realized is SO important). He has this one-of-a-kind intuition, knowing where to go and exactly where to park so we got the best views and photos. We went during a couple of rainy days with more treacherous roads and I’m someone who can get nervous in the car, but in Salehe’s hands, I felt so safe the whole time. Salehe went above and beyond to make sure we had the trip of a lifetime. One example of how he exceeded our expectations was that he recognized that the tall grass in Serengeti during this rainy season would prohibit us from seeing a lot, so he brought us to a more remote area between Ngorogoro Conservation Area and Serengeti, where you can drive off the road. It was the best adventure and we saw so so much - lots of cheetahs, a leopard, giraffes play fighting etc. etc. It was so clear that really the only expert guides are capable of doing this and Salehe is clearly an expert. And he decided to do this during one of the longest drives/days we had (it was probably a 13 hour working day for him), he really really cared that we saw what we had hoped and made it happen!! He also made our last night in the Serengeti so memorable, bringing us out to a sunset spot to enjoy wine that Lion King had specially labeled for us. He’s also an all around awesome and friendly person, and a pleasure to spend time with and learn from. We met several Lion King guides and they all seemed awesome, but I’d say that if you can request Salehe, I can assure you’ll have the BEST time.
Lion King booked us incredible accomodations! They greatly surpassed our expectations. The Maramboi Tented Lodge offered a private pool with views of Lake Maynamara and Nyota Luxury Tent showed us unparalleled friendliness and service. It was an amazing lodging in the middle of the Serengeti! We’ve never stayed anywhere remotely close to how nice all of the accommodations were - we had everything we needed and much, much more.
One last one note about what sets Lion King apart - you will see at the picnic areas that all tours give a boxed lunch. With Lion King, we got a full hit meal on a picnic blanket - a perfect example of how Lion King stands apart. Also I’m a vegetarian and was worried about the options. Let’s just say I’ve ever ate this well!!! Another note is that most tours only have windows that open halfway - we were able to fully put down our windows for the best view AND our truck had a built-in cooler always filled with water, juice, soda and beer, how cool is that?
Longest review I’ve ever written by far but worth it to help inspire others to make the best decision and book with Lion King (and Salehe!!)
CA
Email Julie and Patrick | 50-65 years of age | Experience level: first safari
A trip of a lifetime
Everything was perfect. We saw all animals we wanted to see. Our guide Alifa knew everything about the place, animals, history of the land. He is a excellent driver and we felt safe with him. And he is very sympathic. We asked for a french speaking guide and we got more than expected with Alifa. His french was very good.
Lion King provided us excellent lodges and camps. The lunchs were all good and hot( others companies had sandwiches). We recommand 100% lion King adventures for all, from first contact with Edward, organisation with Florida and safari with Alifa. Don’t hesitate, choose lion King adventures for the trip of a lifetime!
CA
Email Tara | 35-50 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Attention to detail
Jambo! My husband Kris and I (Tara) recently returned from an incredible 7-night safari in Tanzania, arranged by Lion King Adventures. From the moment we landed at Kilimanjaro Airport, we were greeted with warmth and hospitality by our driver, who made us feel welcome and at ease.
Our adventure began the next day with our knowledgeable and entertaining guide, Ozzie (Oswald). He was an expert driver, well-versed in Tanzania's history, culture, and wildlife. Our journey took us through Lake Manyara, the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, and Ndutu to witness the majestic migration.
The entire experience was awe-inspiring, and we were fortunate to see all of the Big Five, along with so many birds, and cheetahs. Ozzie's incredible ability to spot lions made our trip even more memorable -- we lost count at the end!
Our accommodations were a perfect balance of luxury and comfort, and we enjoyed delicious meals throughout our time in the Serengeti. Following our safari, Lion King Adventures helped us coordinate an additional four nights in Zanzibar, which was the perfect way to unwind and reflect on our unforgettable adventure.
We cannot recommend Lion King Adventures highly enough for their exceptional service, attention to detail, and ability to create a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Our honeymoon in Tanzania exceeded our wildest dreams, and we can't wait to book another journey with them in the future. We've been telling all of our friends about our amazing trip, and we're grateful for the memories that will last a lifetime.
Asante sana (thank you very much) to Lion King Adventures and our amazing guide, Ozzie, for an incredible honeymoon safari experience.
PT
Email Bruno Saldanha | 35-50 years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
Great experience in planning safaris! Best experience ever! Professional a staff and amazing driver!
Lion King help planning the tour and decide on Camp sites. They were always professional and their suggestions were great.
Amazing driver Ozzie! We were able to see the Big 5 and a lot more animals! Always driving carefully and safe! No risk at all!
The car was comfortable and has open roof for better photos and experience.
Food experience during the safari was great! Meals adjusted to our needs and always warm and prepared in a daily base. No sandwich!
IT
Email Sara | 50-65 years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
Professionally adventure
A very well organised safari: our guide Shafino was really experienced and gave us a really exciting, but also safe, experience, enriching with a lot of information about animals behavior, name of birds, plants and trees, geology of the parks.
The lodges/tented camps were some fantastic, some very good; just one too basic, but all with a very good quality of the food.
Animals sightings are guaranteed.
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Email Judy Rogers | 50-65 years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
Our travels with Lion King Adventures exceeded all of our expectations.
From start to finish Lion King Adventures did a great job creating a trip just right for us. Caroline was very helpful with customizing our trip options to make the most of our time. We spent our first day with Tumaini and both he and our day were a delight. For the safari portion of our trip our guide was Immanuel and for future travelers to Tanzania I hope your safari guide will be as welcoming, knowledgeable and skilled. Each day Immanuel made sure to guide us to the most amazing wildlife experiences, once at a sighting he maneuvered our vehicle into the best positions. You need a good driver traveling the safari routes and Immanuel was exceptional. We feel so fortunate to have had this time in Tanzania and to have chosen the perfect outfit to entrust our arrangements to. We can't thank you all enough and we hope to travel with you again in the future.
IT
Email Sara | 50-65 years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
Superb
Complete and very beautiful tour: you have to be prepared to spend many hours in the car, but sightings are guaranteed, the landscapes are spectacular and every need is promptly satisfied (stops, drinks on board and lots of information from the guide).
Safety was guaranteed by Shafino's many years of experience who accompanied us, with a wealth of information on our surroundings (animals, flowers, birds, rocks).
It was an exciting and enriching experience.
(automatic translation from Italian)
CA
Email Ken & Shirley | 65+ years of age | Experience level: first safari
Superb service, responsive, informative, excellent pre trip planning. Very clear communication.
Our guide, Emmanuel, was a superb guide! He was friendly, informative and enthusiastic about animals, birds and plant life. He made sure we saw lots of animals and was very patient at animal sightings which enriched our experience. It was thrilling to have lunch watching cheetahs , a large pride of lions and white rhinos. Emmanuel had exceptional driving skills in rough, often muddy terrain. He provided an experience that exceeded our expectations. We will recommend Lion King and Emmanuel to friends and family who are interested in a safari.