Founder of Dancing Zebra Safari, Jessica Mathews
Dancing Zebra Safari
- Located In:
-
United States
- Size:
- 1-5 employees (Founded in 2016)
- Member Of:
- Africa Travel Association (ATA) & The International Ecotourism Society (T.I.E.S)
- Tour Types:
- Custom mid-range & luxury tours that can start every day
- Destinations:
- Price Range:
- $700 to $2,500 per person per day (USD, excl. int'l flights)
Reviews
Email Jill | 50-65 years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
Perfect attention to detail, good communication, great suggestions equals a wonderful trip.
My safari was perfectly planned by Jessica at Dancing Zebra Safaris. Every one of my expectations was exceeded, and I especially appreciated the attention to the small details. From the moment I stepped off the plane and was greeted with warm smiles I knew this trip would be special. Jessica truly listened to what I wanted from this trip and thoughtfully brought that vision to life.
From the welcome at the airport, to my wonderful safari guide, John, who expertly navigated the Serengeti plains while pointing out a leopard lounging in a tree, to watching cheetahs and elephants. Not to mention the exceptional accommodations at Lemala Nanyukie, where I fell asleep each night to the sounds of the Serengeti, I felt personally cared for every step of the way. Every detail was taken care of, allowing me to enjoy a seamless and unforgettable experience.
This trip was particularly meaningful because it was a return to Tanzania and the Serengeti for me. Watching the sun rise over the endless savannah brought back cherished memories while creating new ones when my beloved husband and I visited together.
I highly recommend Jessica and Dancing Zebra Safaris. They will plan a trip of a lifetime for you as they have for me twice now.
Email Steve S. | 65+ years of age | Experience level: over 5 safaris
Fantastic safari in Zambia!
With this trip to Zambia, we have now entered into the exclusive Dancing Zebra 10 timer club!
When we were in the Serengeti two years ago, we met a couple who went to Zambia every year. They mentioned they liked South Luangwa and Lower Zambezi. With just this bit of info, after getting back I talked to Jessica, and asked her to look into putting together a Zambia safari. She came back with an itinerary of 3 national parks, including the above mentioned two, and Kafue National Park. After looking things over, and talking with her again, we reserved everything. It can get complicated picking from the many camps, and scheduling all the internal flights and transfers, so it’s best when planning an African safari, to have an experienced agent put everything together, and Jessica is the best at that!
All of the animals you think of with Africa, are in Zambia, with lots of big cats, which are my favorite. We had several quality leopard sightings, including one at night, and many lion sightings, especially at Kafue, which is overflowing with lions! We also saw a mother cheetah with two small cubs eating a meal, which was very special. The lodges and the driver/guides were all excellent, like all the places we have stayed at when booked through Dancing Zebra.
Altogether it was another fantastic trip, and we are looking forward to February 2027 for our 11th Dancing Zebra safari!
Email Suman Prasad | 50-65 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Dancing Zebra is the ultimate safari operator, combining unmatched insider expertise and deep local
Hands down the trip of a lifetime—Dancing Zebra is the real deal!
We just got back from a family safari organized by Dancing Zebra, and honestly, we’re still wrapping our heads around how incredible it was. If you are looking to book an African safari, stop searching and just go with them.
Here is why our trip was so special:
Jessica really knows her stuff (and everyone knows it)
Jessica is a total veteran. She has visited Tanzania and Africa more than 15 times, and it absolutely shows. She is incredibly well-respected in local safari circles, and that insider connection makes a huge difference. She didn’t just hand us a cookie-cutter itinerary; she genuinely guided and educated my family on the nuances of where to go, what makes each area unique, and how to respect local traditions. The flow of the trip was perfect, and you can tell she plans with a deep love and respect for the culture and land.
Steven James is a legendary guide (and master photographer)
Our guide, Steven James, completely elevated the whole experience. He’s incredibly knowledgeable, tons of fun, and kept the whole family entertained the entire time. But what sets Steven apart is that he is an extremely skilled photographer. He understands animal behavior so well that he could predict exactly where a lion or elephant would move next, positioning our vehicle perfectly so we always got the best, most unobstructed views. Our trip photos are insane thanks to him.
Mind-blowing wildlife moments
The wildlife viewing was next-level. A few moments we’ll never forget:
The Leopard Track: We spent hours tracking a notoriously elusive leopard. Steven’s tracking skills totally paid off when we finally found it draped perfectly across a branch in that classic, iconic tree pose. Watching it elegantly climb down the tree trunk and just melt away into the tall grass was pure magic.
Ngorongoro Drama: We got to see a pride of lions right after a fresh kill in the Crater—raw, intense, and amazing to witness.
Peaceful Giants: On a super hot afternoon, we parked near an elephant herd just peacefully resting and sleeping under some trees. Being right there, totally immersed in their world in such a quiet, respectful way, was incredibly moving.
The Great Migration: Standing in the middle of literal hordes of wildebeest and zebras stretching out as far as the eye could see.
Amazing hospitality at Lemala Camps
Jessica set us up at three different Lemala properties: Lemala Ngorongoro, Lemala Ewanjan, and Lemala Kuria Hills. The camps were beautiful, but it was the Lemala staff that made it unforgettable. Their warmth, hospitality, and genuine kindness made us feel like family at every single stop.
Email Ashley cook | 35-50 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Tour operator was amazing! Made the trip for us!
We had an amazing time on our safari. I never imagined just how beautiful Africa would be. We saw the big five along with so many other beautiful animals. I’ve never seen so many vibrant colors and the landscape didn’t even look real! Apart from the beauty of Tanzania, our favorite thing had to be the people. Before we even started on our journey Jessica at dancing zebra planned everything perfectly for us. She was so knowledgeable and took time to talk with us (multiple phone calls) to alleviate any of our concerns and answer all of our questions. Our flight that we personally booked got changed and they had no problem rearranging our accommodations to match the new flight. Our tour guide Frank was phenomenal. He was so knowledgeable and taught us all kinds of animal facts. He made the safari for us because he was so into the animals. I really wanted to see the great migration and he went above and beyond to contact different people to make that happen. The migration was breathtaking. Frank took a ton of pictures that looked professionally done and shared them with us at the end of the trip. All of the lodges we stayed at were beautiful and the employees were absolutely amazing and so hospitable. We learned Swahili, had private dinners with gorgeous views, and went on nature walks learning about the culture and surrounding areas. We were so sad to return home and will definitely be back. And there is no doubt that we will use dancing zebra, Jessica, and Frank the next time we book!
Email Lisa | 50-65 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Everything from start to finish was done correctly & there were no surprises.
PLEASE book with this company!!!! Jessica was amazing to work with. Very knowledgeable about all things Safari (and then some!). We had the best of the best...from the moment we landed in Tanazia to when we left Zanzibar, everything was handled and hassle free. Everyone we meet along the way were genuinely wonderful and great to work with. All the accommodations and meals were more than 5 stars! Never once had any troubles with the vehicles breaking down. We plan to book another trip with Jessica & Dancing Zebra Safari Company.
Email Tracey | 50-65 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Incredible Experience!!!
Jessica planned an incredible trip for us that included Safari in Tanzania, relaxation in Zanzibar and a quick stop in Nairobi. Jessica was a pleasure to work with and is a true professional.
The accommodations were all outstanding and the service was incredible. The service and staff at the lodges were by far the most caring and friendly that we have ever experienced. All aspects of the trip surpassed our expectations. We got incredibly close to the animals and saw more than we anticipated. We thoroughly enjoyed breaking up safari with visits to two tribes. Spending time with the Datoga and Hadza tribes and learning about their cultures was a real highlight.
Mwiba in Southern Serengeti was a little out of the way but absolutely worth the trip. If you have the chance to visit, don't pass up
on it! The lodge, service and scenary are outstanding. We also got closest to the animals here because it is a private game reserve.
Our drivers and guides Frank, Henry and David in Nairobi were all fantastic. They were all very knowledgable, easy going and professional. The roads in Ngorongoro and Eastern Serengeti were treacherous at times but Frank navigated them with ease and did his best to make the rides as smooth as possible. The guides were also all experts on spotting animals in the distance.
We added in a balloon ride at the last minute and we loved it! It requited a very early morning but was worth it. My husband who is afraid of heights did not find it challenging or scary at all. In fact, it was a very smooth, relaxing ride. The view from above is majestic!
I highly recommend Jessica and Dancing Zebra Safari! We had an amazing trip!
CA
Email Shawn Aaron | 50-65 years of age | Experience level: first safari
An Excellent Trip to Tanzania
We went on safari to Tanzania with a side trip to Zanzibar, organized by Jessica and Dancing Zebras. The trip was fantastic. Everything was well organized, the safari camps we stayed at were excellent and the experience was everything we hoped it would be. I would highly recommend Dancing Zebras if you want to book an excellent African adventure.
Email Virginia Low | 50-65 years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
Amazing Experience - Exceeds ALL Expectations! Jessica is the BEST!!
My 5th time on safari using Jessica with Dancing Zebra Safari Company, and as always, it was perfect! Despite managing multiple activities and camps all the detailed planning resulted in a hassle-free relaxing trip. My fellow safari goers, all on their first trip, were amazed by the luxury of the camps, the professionalism and hospitality of the staff, and the ease of traveling throughout Tanzania! Jessica does a wonderful job tailoring the trip to travelers' interests, while keeping on track of the budget. The accommodations are spectacular, I wish I had more time to stay!
Destinations: Arusha, Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, & Zanzibar
Duration: ~ 2 weeks
Starting off in Arusha, staying at the beautiful Kiligolf and Wildlife Estates we began our adventure going on a walking safari at Arusha National Park. It was thrilling to walk and learn about the park's ecosystem while viewing giraffes, vervet monkeys, lots of pumbas up close and personal! The evening ended with a relaxing sundowner at Kiligolf with Mount Meru & Kilimanjaro in view! It was a fantastic way to the start of our safari!
Next stop - Northern Serengeti: we saw such an abundance of animals and exotic birds on our first day, that the first timers didn't even think they would see so much on the entire trip! Each day we experienced more encounters that somehow seemed to surpass the day before. For my FIRST time ever I witnessed the wildebeests crossing the Mara River! We also saw (a FIRST for our guide, Robert - the BEST!!) a "Giraffe Crossing"! Actually 2 giraffes successfully crossed while we watched and held our breaths in awe! Took my first balloon safari which gave another perspective, seeing the vast expanse of land and all the groupings of animals; followed by a delicious champange brunch!
At Ngorongoro we spotted the elusive rhino (another first for me!) and had many close encounters with the wildebeests & hyenas coming to investigate our vehicle! Jessica arranged a very special privately catered lunch at the crater which was spectacular. We felt like nobility receiving the ultimate experience! The Osonjoi Lodge at the crater was so luxurious and provided an incredible views of the crater.
We ended our excursion going to Zanzibar to relax (some more) staying at the Baraza Resort & Spa. Wish I could move the resort closer as the service, surrounding beauty, and accommodations were top notch! It was very hard to leave this most beautiful place! While in Zanzibar we had a walking reef tour at Baraza. We traveled on a dhow and went snorkeling, seeing all kinds of fish among the reef - followed by a private lunch of grilled lobster, shrimp and multiple sides at our own private beach tree house! We vistied and ate at the famous Rock restaurant as well! Highly recommend all these activities!
Through out the trip, the food was delicious and plentiful and the staff very sincere in making the whole experience as wonderful as could be. Jessica is so personally involved with all the details and plans, she personally knows the guides and coordinates the best guides for her clients - you will not be disappointed!
Seven years ago, I went on my first "once in a lifetime" safari to Tanzania...and now after my fifth trip - I still want to go back for more! [And I'd only do that using Jessica Mathews with Dancing Zebra!!]
Email Steve S. | 65+ years of age | Experience level: over 5 safaris
Another amazing 5-star trip with Dancing Zebra Safari Company!
This was our 9th trip with Dancing Zebra, and for this one, I told Jessica early on (over a year in advance) that we wanted to see gorillas! I was not sure how we would work that in, but luckily for us, Jessica had gorilla trekking experience herself in Rwanda, so she personally knew all the ins and outs of adding this on! She recommended November, since prices and crowds will be lower, but all the animals are still there. Jessica came up with an itinerary starting at Tarangire National Park in Tanzania, then 6 nights in the Serengeti, then fly to Rwanda for the gorillas. She is the best at organizing a safari! Especially with multiple countries and internal flights, which can complicate things.
Our driver/guide in Tanzania was Steven James, and he is at the expert level of finding the animals. Especially leopards! One highlight was crossing the Mara River and heading close to the Kenya border, where hardly anybody else was going. We spotted a leopard, and stayed with her for several hours, being the only safari vehicle there! Another highlight was witnessing crossings of the Mara River by the wildebeest herds, including crocodile action! Without Stevens skill, we might not have seen any of this. He is one of the best. In fact, all our guides booked through Dancing Zebra in the 6 different countries we have been to, have been at the very top of their game. The Lemala camps we stayed at were excellent, as always. This was our third time at Lemala Kuria Hills, so they were glad to see us again. We stayed there the first time in 2020 for 10 nights, when hardly anyone was traveling (except us) due to all the Covid complications.
Then it was on to Rwanda. We flew to the capital city Kigali, and stayed there the first night, and toured the city the next morning. We had a knowledgeable private escort/driver throughout our Rwanda stay. We stopped at the Genocide Memorial, an experience I would recommend. We then drove to the Virunga Mountains, for two days of trekking for Gorillas and golden monkeys. Both treks were about 30 to 40 minutes hiking each way, which was less than we expected, and the lodge even cleaned the mud off our shoes when we got back! The gorillas were awesome; we spent about an hour with this family. They would walk right past you within touching distance, but we never felt any fear. They were mainly gentle and ignored us, as they fed and played on the forest floor. The golden monkeys were awesome too. These were the most colorful monkeys we have ever seen!
So altogether, this was another great safari with Dancing Zebra, and I would recommend them for your first safari, or your 10th! And for us, our 10th safari is already booked for Zambia next May.
CA
Email Louise | 65+ years of age | Experience level: first safari
Jessica-every trip detail was perfect & provided unforgettable surprise experiences
This was a trip of a lifetime to Tanzania, Zimbabwe, and Chobe River, Botswana. Every detail was attended to. We had the beautiful comfortable accommodation and every meal was delicious. There were so many surprises beyond all the amazing wildlife that we came to see-night game drive; lunch out on the Serengeti with animals in the distance; picnic lunch with monkeys more than happy to try and steal the food; dining under the stars with candle light; seeing the sun set in the distance while we enjoyed wine and appetizers; sunrises with lions nearby; wonderful safari guides Steven John and Mokili who were so knowledgeable, fun, entertaining, efficient. So many special moments. The lodge staff anticipated our every need and made us feel so comfortable. They were so warm and welcoming and absolutely delightful. They kept us safe escorting us past various wild beast hanging around our lodging. We experienced a visit to a Maasai Boma-so interesting to learn about their lifestyle. From peaceful surroundings to Cape Town where we experienced a culture shock of noise and busyness and there too enjoyed what the area offered. The saying "you get what you pay for" is true and we were not disappointed at all.
We came home to speak of our wonderful experiences and our daughter and husband and friends are now excitedly planning a future trip with Jessica/Dancing Zebras.
