African Big Cats Safaris
- Office In:
- Size:
- 20-50 employees (Founded in 2013)
- Member Of:
- TATO & TTB
- Tour Types:
- Custom mid-range & luxury tours that can start every day
- Destinations:
- Price Range:
- $200 to $1,100 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
Email Chelsea | 20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Kind genuine and very knowledgeable!
Our safari with African Big Cats Safaris was nothing short of exceptional. From the moment we arrived, we were welcomed with genuine warmth and outstanding hospitality that made us feel like valued guests rather than just tourists.
The entire team was professional, knowledgeable, and incredibly friendly. Every staff member went above and beyond to ensure our comfort, safety, and enjoyment throughout the journey. Their attention to detail and commitment to providing a first-class experience truly set them apart.
The safari itself was unforgettable, with expertly guided game drives that gave us incredible opportunities to see Tanzania's breathtaking wildlife and landscapes. The guides were highly experienced, passionate, and always focused on making sure we had the best possible experience while maintaining the highest safety standards.
The food was another highlight of the trip. Every meal was fresh, delicious, and beautifully prepared, exceeding our expectations in both quality and variety. Whether enjoying breakfast before an early game drive or a relaxing dinner after a day of adventure, the dining experience was consistently excellent.
What impressed us most was the kindness and friendliness of everyone we met. The staff's positive attitude, professionalism, and genuine care created a welcoming atmosphere that made our safari truly special.
We highly recommend African Big Cats Safaris to anyone looking for a safe, well-organized, and unforgettable safari experience in Tanzania. They delivered exceptional service from start to finish, and we look forward to returning for another adventure in the future.
Email Kenneth | 50-65 years of age | Experience level: first safari
African Big Cats did an amazing job.
The safari was beyond belief and amazing. All the lodging were great and the sights were amazing. Big Cats guide Khaled was very informative and knowledgeable. Naomi, our arranger kept us informed before our trip and answered all of our questions. Our party of three went on a 7-day safari including the Serengeti and was actually in the middle of the great migration and saw several thousands of zebras and wildebeests. We saw four black rhinos, a few leopards, many lions, 1000s of elephants, 100s of cape buffalos, 100s of hippos and giraffes. We went at the end of the rain season and there were no crowds. I highly recommend using African Bigs Cats. Request Khaled as your guide.
IL
Email Elis | 20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
African Big Cats- 10/10!!!
Our safari with African Big Cats was truly one of the highlights of our honeymoon, and we cannot recommend them highly enough.
From the very beginning, the entire team went above and beyond to make our trip perfect. A special thank you to William from the sales team, who managed to organize our itinerary and accommodations at the last minute while carefully accommodating all of our requests and preferences. Everything was planned exactly the way we wanted. We would also like to thank Naomi and Emmanuel from the operations team, who made sure every detail was clear, well-organized, and running smoothly throughout the entire journey.
And now, the most important part of this review: Martin.
We spent six incredible days with Martin on a private safari, and honestly, we could not have asked for a better guide to be part of such a special chapter of our lives.
Martin is the complete package: exceptionally professional, incredibly knowledgeable, genuinely friendly, and simply a wonderful person to spend time with. Spending six full days together in a safari vehicle could easily feel overwhelming with the wrong guide, but with Martin, we felt comfortable from the very first moment. He has an amazing ability to read the atmosphere and adapt to his guests, making every day feel natural, enjoyable, and effortless.
His knowledge is truly remarkable. Whether it was wildlife, plants, ecosystems, local culture, history, geography, or the smallest details of the environment around us, Martin always had fascinating insights to share. Most of the time, we didn’t even need to ask questions because he was already explaining things in such an engaging and interesting way. At the same time, he never felt overwhelming or intrusive—he always knew exactly how to strike the perfect balance.
Another thing that truly stood out was Martin’s exceptional wildlife tracking ability. His experience, sharp eye, and deep understanding of animal behavior consistently put us in the right place at the right time. Time and time again, he spotted animals that we would never have noticed on our own and worked tirelessly to ensure we had the best possible sightings throughout our safari. It was clear that he genuinely cared about making our experience as special and memorable as possible.
Beyond being an outstanding guide, Martin is an excellent driver, extremely organized, and always one step ahead. He made sure every detail was taken care of and that we never had to worry about anything. Everything ran smoothly, without delays, issues, or complications. We always felt safe, relaxed, and well looked after.
As newlyweds on our honeymoon, this trip was incredibly important to us, and Martin played a huge role in making it such an unforgettable experience. We genuinely cannot imagine having had a better guide accompany us on this journey through Tanzania.
We wholeheartedly recommend African Big Cats to anyone planning a safari, and if you have the opportunity, do yourself a favor and specifically request Martin as your guide!!
Email Edgar | 20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
They were easy to work with and ensured that our safari was memorable!
We thoroughly enjoyed taking a safari with African Big Cats. Naomi and Salim were incredibly helpful with getting our trip set up. Everything, from our accommodations to the food to the hospitality, exceeded our expectations. Emmanuel met with us on our first night in to review our trip, which we greatly appreciated.
Our tour guide, Lovoi, was incredible! He was knowledgeable of every park we were in and every animal we came across. He was very friendly and funny as well. We really enjoyed spending our trip with him.
Our weather was beautiful. While it is beyond anyone's control, we wanted to mention that having our trip at the end of April and beginning of May was a wonderful time of year.
CN
Email Summer | 35-50 years of age | Experience level: first safari
A Vehicle Accident and What Followed
Our safari with African Big Cat Safaris in May 2026 was unfortunately marked by a serious vehicle accident, and I believe future travellers should be aware of both the incident itself and the company's response afterwards.
During our safari in the Serengeti, the vehicle left the road and came to rest on its side. Official incident reports and a traffic citation were issued following the accident.
Several members of our group sustained injuries. I was seated in the rear row of the vehicle and, after returning to China, CT imaging confirmed fractures of the L1-L3 lumbar transverse processes resulting from the accident. Another member of our group was diagnosed locally with a mild concussion.
Local medical assistance was arranged after the incident, and based on the medical assessments available at the time, no serious bone injury was identified. However, both the concussed passenger and I were unable to participate in safari activities the following day and remained at camp while the rest of the group continued the itinerary.
To be fair, the company covered local medical expenses incurred in Tanzania and provided the accident documentation when requested.
My concern relates less to the accident itself and more to the level of care and support shown afterwards.
After returning home, medical examinations confirmed injuries that had not been identified locally. We submitted the relevant medical evidence and attempted to resolve the remaining accident-related costs through direct and respectful communication.
We also limited our request and did not pursue compensation for missed safari activities, damaged personal property, loss of income, rehabilitation costs, or other indirect losses. Instead, we requested a modest contribution toward a small portion of the accident-related expenses that remained uncovered by our travel insurance.
The company ultimately declined any form of goodwill support beyond the medical expenses already covered in Tanzania and informed us that its position was final. More importantly, at no stage did we feel there was meaningful acknowledgement of the impact this accident had on the injured members of the group.
Safari travel inherently carries risk, and I understand that accidents can happen even with experienced operators. For me, the most important measure of a company is not whether an accident occurs, but how it responds when guests are injured.
I encourage prospective travellers to ask detailed questions about vehicle safety procedures, seatbelt policies, emergency response arrangements, accident reporting processes, and post-incident support before booking.
This review reflects my personal experience and is supported by official incident records, medical documentation, and correspondence with the company.
Reply from African Big Cats Safaris
Posted on Jun 5, 2026Dear Summer Tang,
Thank you for taking the time to share your experience.
First and foremost, we are truly sorry that this incident occurred during your safari and that both you and your travelling companion suffered injuries as a result. We understand how distressing the experience must have been, and we sincerely regret that it became part of your journey with us.
Guest safety and wellbeing remain our highest priorities, and whenever an incident occurs, our focus is on ensuring that affected guests receive prompt assistance and appropriate medical care. Following the accident, our team arranged medical attention immediately, assisted with transportation and logistics, maintained communication throughout the remainder of your stay, and covered the medical expenses incurred in Tanzania.
Based on the medical assessments available at the time, no serious bone injuries were identified, and medical professionals did not recommend hospitalization, emergency evacuation, or discontinuation of your safari. We therefore understand how concerning it must have been to later learn, following further examinations in China, that additional injuries had been identified.
We also appreciate your acknowledgement that local medical expenses were covered by our company. After receiving the medical documentation submitted following your return home, we carefully reviewed the matter and considered the request presented to us. While we were unable to provide additional financial support beyond the assistance already provided, this decision should not be interpreted as a lack of concern for your wellbeing. Rather, it reflected our position regarding expenses incurred after the completion of the safari and outside Tanzania, which are typically addressed through travel insurance arrangements.
We respect that you feel disappointed by the outcome, and we understand that your experience has led you to view the situation differently. At the same time, we would like future travelers to know that our team remained committed to supporting you throughout the incident and its immediate aftermath, and that every decision made was taken in good faith and with your welfare in mind.
Safari travel takes place in remote wilderness environments where, despite experienced guides, maintained vehicles, established safety procedures, and careful planning, unforeseen incidents can occasionally occur. While such events are extremely rare, we continuously review our operations and procedures to maintain the highest possible standards of safety and guest care.
We are grateful that you and your travelling companion were able to complete the remainder of your safari, and we sincerely wish you both continued recovery, good health, and all the very best for the future.
Kind regards,
African Big Cat Safaris
NL
Email Dalila | 20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
An excellent safari operator who makes the trip feel effortless, personal and unforgettable
The safari was perfectly organized from start to finish. Naomi was incredibly helpful, responsive, and always available to answer any questions we had. As this was our first safari, her guidance was invaluable in helping us plan everything smoothly. She was professional, efficient, and booked wonderful accommodations for us. Every lodge exceeded our expectations, and the staff at each location made us feel truly welcome.
Everything was arranged so well that we barely had to worry about anything except getting ready for the adventure.
The safari itself was an unforgettable experience, thanks to our guide Thomas. He accompanied us through Tarangire, Ngorongoro, Serengeti, and Lake Manyara National Parks, making every day special. Thomas is friendly, knowledgeable, and clearly passionate about his work. Not only did he help us spot an incredible variety of wildlife, but he also shared fascinating insights about the animals and their behavior throughout the trip.
We couldn't have asked for a better experience and would highly recommend this team to anyone planning a safari.
CN
Email Samantha | 35-50 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Flawless Tanzania Safari with African Big Cats Safaris - Highly Recommended!
We just finished an unforgettable family safari organized by African Big Cats Safaris, and couldn't be happier with our experience! From our very first inquiry, their communication was professional, flexible, and attentive to all our detailed requests as a family travelling with 4.5-year-old daughter.
Our tour guide, Venance, was absolutely outstanding, he has an incredible eye for wildlife, we saw almost all the iconic animals. He was also extremely patient, kind, and amazing with our daughter, making the long game drives completely stress free and joyful for her.
If you want a perfectly tailored, safe, and magical safari experience in Tanzania, look no further than African Big Cats Safaris!
BE
Email Marek | 50-65 years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
Wonderful, unforgettable adventure!
We selected African Big Cats Safaris company after reviewing over twenty offers. The company gave us a very professional impression already at the stage of planning of our trip. They were the only ones replying with a program taylored to all our specific requests. We spent five wonderful days with them in a private safari tour.
Before the start of the Safari the Head of the company came to our hotel and gave us an extensive briefing.
Our driver and guide was extremely professional, kind, attentive to our interests and making all efforts to keep us happy. Thanks to him we saw the Big five and even more important, we experienced so many exceptional moments ( for example witnessing first moments of newly born antelopes, inter alia). He was truly passionate about wildlife. When we wished we stayed very long to watch animals, and in many places also escaped other safari cars which seemed as very exclusive safari
The lodges booked by the company were exactly those that we wanted. All very good quality both in terms of accommodation and food. The car was very comfortable and had a roof we could open and watch animal through it.
All in all, it was a wonderful experience. It was worth every penny. We would certainly recommend the African Big Cats Safaris company and our guide. We would definitely book with them again.
Email Kathie Sherman | 65+ years of age | Experience level: first safari
We really made the right decision with African Big Cats Safari!
African safaris had always been on our travel list, but we were unsure it would be worth the cost. We were wrong! Our only regret is not going on safari earlier.
We chose African Big Cats Safaris (ABC) because they were highly recommended by friends of ours and they were so flexible in designing our itinerary. We wanted to spend a few days in Kenya, to see Nairobi and visit the Amboseli National Park. ABC was able to start our adventure there, using a Kenyan safari company, Essence of Kenya. Our guides, Sam and John were wonderful, especially when one of our duffels was delayed. And our transition into Tanzania was easy, switching guides at the border. In Tanzania, we concentrated on four areas: Tarangire National Park, Ngorongoro Crater, Southern Serengeti near Ndutu, and Central Serengeti (the Seronera area). Each area was different, but all were fascinating.
As for our accommodations, each of us had our own vision of how each day would end. Would it be: a refreshing dip in the pool? A cool drink and a good meal? A campfire with other travelers? ABC made sure we would all be happy. And we were. Our accommodations were mostly tented camps, luxurious and comfy.
But as anyone could guess, the game drives were the real main features. Watching the animals living their daily lives in their own natural world was incredible. We witnessed giraffes snacking on high tree limbs, families of elephants strolling along with babies at their side, prides of lions lounging in the tall grass, gazelles frolicking, cheetahs stalking, the leopard sleeping in a tree. And I cannot forget to mention all the other animals: hippos, alligators, water buffalo, zebras, baboons, rhinos, hyenas, warthogs, and thousands of birds. We saw them all and more. And all of it was amid the great green expanse of open plains and savannahs (it was January). Truly magical!
It was all made possible by ABC and our fantastic, brilliant guide in Tanzania, Festo. I cannot say enough about Festo. His knowledge of Tanzania, of the animals and their habits is unbelievable, not to mention the delicious picnics he brought and his ability to know the perfect place to park the Land Rover for a great photo. Between the four of us, we have over 5,000 photos – after we deleted the duplicates and fuzzy ones. Festo had a knack of making every game drive into a new day of discovery and insight into the natural world of Tanzania.
As for tips for travelers to Tanzania, we came prepared for mosquitoes, cold nights and hot days. However, perhaps because it was January, we experienced no mosquitoes, warm days (ok, hot in the direct sun) and pleasant evenings. We did use our warm clothes in the evenings at the Ngorongoro Crater rim, which was nippy due to the altitude. So, my best and only real tip is to let African Big Cats Safaris do your planning and let their guides take care of the rest.
On a personal note, I have breathing problems walking, especially on an incline. I noticed we always had a tent close to the dining and social area. Asante, ABC! And Festo was always there, urging me to walk “pole pole” (Swahili for “slowly slowly”). Such care and patience! Asante, Festo!
DE
Email Katja | 20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Amazing experience
We had an amazing experience with African Big Cats Safaris. The communication throughout the booking process was excellent and our safari was very well planned! Our guide Samuel did everything to get us as close to all the animals as possible and always provided helpful information about the different species we saw. All the accomodations were wonderful and we can really recommend booking with African Big Cats. We will surely come back!