African Big Cats Safaris
- Offices In:
-
United States
Australia
Canada
- Size:
- 10-20 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
US
Email Maureen | 65+ years of age | Experience level: first safari
Awesome 👏 !!!
First, African Big Cats Safari could not have been more professional and responsive to our needs.
Second, Festo (our guide) made the entire experience absolutely magical for all of us. We were four women celebrating a big birthday and I will always remember his knowledge, humor, big heart, and patience in every circumstance. He is a true gem, and I hope that others will request him.
Team Kudu ❤️!
Email Maree | 65+ years of age | Experience level: first safari
Trouble free tours
African Big Cats Safaris arrange two tours for my husband and myself. One was to Rwanda to trek to see the chimpanzees and gorillas and the other was an 8 day safari with our friends, 8 people together.
The whole process of arranging and booking both tours was seamless. We communicated with Justice to begin with to organise what we wanted to do - he organised our itineraries. Once we had finalised our programmes and paid the deposits we dealt with Naomi. Both staff members were very competent and efficient. All our driver/guides were very knowledgeable and careful drivers. They went above and beyond to take care of us. The days were long, but they were always ready to pick us up in the morning at whatever time we had arranged the night before. They gave us so much information about the places we went and the animals we saw.
Our tours were of a high standard and the accommodation was fabulous and very comfortable. The modes of transport were suited to the type of tours we were undertaking - we had a comfortable sedan in Rwanda and 2x 4WD's for our safari. The 4WD's had a top that 'popped up' which was excellent for viewing the animals, they seated 6 persons, but we only had 4 in each 4WD, so it gave us extra room, so we were not in each other's way to take pictures.
I cannot recommend African Big Cats Safaris highly enough with whatever you would like to do, they are very accommodating and will organise a tour to suit your needs and budget. There are a lot of safari companies in Tanzania but these guys were exceptional.
US
Email Donna Cleary | 65+ years of age | Experience level: first safari
Endeni was exceptional.
Endeni, our GUIDE EXTRORDINAIRE, is the KING OF THE SAFARI.
Our trip started off with a bang. The resort, Tumbili Lodge, is gorgeous with wonderful food and staff. On our first day, we were able to settle in and prepare for the rigors of our Safari.
We met Endeni on day 2. He is, in fact, the KING OF THE SAFARI because of his unparalleled ability to multitask under pressure.
DRIVER - over some incredibly difficult terrain. As a result, each day provided a free African Massage. :)) EDUCATOR - about Tanzania, its people, its history. About the animals - their names, their status, their routines, how to spot them.
EAGLE EYE - while driving over washboard roads riddled with giant pot holes and deep ravines, Endeni spotted Lions, Giraffe, Elephants, a Leopard, a Cheeta, Hyenas, Baboons, Warthogs, Zebra, and Wildebeast (which were everywhere), Secretary birds, Ostrichs, Water Buffalo, Hippos, Eagles, Vultures, Hornbills, an Owl, a variety of small birds, Crocodiles, and every iteration of Antelope, Gizelle, and Deer-like being.
WRESTLER - at times, stealth-like movement of the Land Cruiser was needed to ensure the best viewing, photos, videos, and comprehension of the animals' behavior. There were often other vehicles and an unspoken coordination between the guides. With his big smile and outgoing personality, Endeni somehow always landed in the right location.
PERSONALITY - he did all of this while skillfully managing the personalities of a group of six friends.
PROVIDER - Endeni brought us to various locations for our midday meal, laid out some delicious food, cleaned up, and gave our leftovers to the needy. All with a smile while answering a barrage of endless questions.
COORDINATOR - Endeni knew where we needed to be and when. He worked with us on timing and ensured we arrived at our lodging safely and in a timely fashion. HERO - Endeni came to the rescue of a young couple who had rented their own vehicle and were stranded on the side of the road - in the middle of the Serengeti. We spotted a crowd of trucks up ahead. Others had stopped to look and watch while a young man struggled to figure out what to do next. No one had gotten out of their vehicle to help. But Endeni didn't hesitate. As soon as we arrived, he jumped out and jumped in. Soon, he was under the truck, found out what was wrong, and helped this young couple put their truck back together - using a seat belt - so they could continue their adventure.
Because on top of everything, Endeni is also an EXPERT. Endeni has a deep knowledge of the workings of the Land Cruisers and helped a few other drivers figure out what was wrong with theirs, imparting sage advice.
FRIEND - We had a flat tire. This was no surprise based on the roads. Out of nowhere, Endeni's best friend drove by and helped him change the tire - in stifling heat under the hot sun, while we all sat in the shade of our covered vehicle. There was no complaining, but it was clear there was a deep sense of camaraderie, and their get-it-done attitude prevailed.
We stayed in a variety of beautiful accommodations, some tents guarded by Masaii warriors while we slept, while wild animals moved around us. It was at once terrifying and exhilarating, knowing we were safe inside and would not be disturbed.
If he hasn't had one in a while, Endeni deserves a raise. This trip would not have been the same with anyone else. He is a PHENOMENON. Hold onto him.
There was a lot of coordination and back-and-forth, putting this trip together. Ensuring that three couples living in different parts of the US were accommodated was no small task. Naomi did a great job, and we're grateful for her skills as well.
Great job, African Big Cats Safari. Keep up the good work.
MX
Email Sylvia | 50-65 years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
Excellent Service, will choose them every time
Emanuel and his Team at African Safari Cats are truly dedicated and good at what they do, they are involved in everything from beggining to end making sure everything goes as planned and were very accomodating with a last minute change addition and a mistake I made with departure times of final flight home.
Obedi is a wonderful guide, he was very patient and knowledgeable and took great care of our family so our children would have a spectacular time, we would choose ABC and Obedi every time if we went back to the area. Asante Sana...maisha marefu to the entire Team at African Big Cats they are the Best at what they do!!!
US
Email J. Dennis | 50-65 years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
Amazing Experience with African Big Cats
Our experience with African Big Cats was incredible. We are a family of 5 and were looking for a private safari. There are so many companies to choose from and we're so happy we decided on African Big Cats. The initial communication with William was top notch. He was polite and patient with us throughout. We provided an itinerary we wanted and William suggested some changes that would enhance the experience, and we're glad he did. Nothing was ever pushed on us. Timing, accommodations and everything was based on what we wanted. After making the decision to go with them for an 8 day safari, Naomi took over as the safari coordinator and the communication was still great. The night we arrived in Arusha, Emmanuel met with us at our lodge to go over the final itinerary and make sure we were on the same page and that all our expectations were being met. We then met Mrosso, who was our guide, the following morning. Mrosso was amazing and we were so glad we had him as our guide. Mrosso was super knowledgeable, a great driver, especially on the bumpy roads and provided amazing service. He was so patient and accommodated all our requests, even necessary bathroom breaks. He is kind, respectful and such a great man. He also had such a keen eye for spotting wildlife that we never would have noticed on our own (cheetah poking its head out of the grass under a tree). The Land Cruiser was in good shape, well suited for the journey and very comfortable. We never thought an overland safari would be so comfortable. All the accommodations were amazing, even the tented ones in the Serengeti as well as the food. All the Tanzanians we encountered were all so nice and pleasant.
If you're looking for an amazing experience, go with African Big Cats, you won't be disappointed. It's not about what you're going to see out there, it's about who you're interacting with and the overall service and Mrosso was a HUGE part of the experience. Thanks Mrosso and the entire African Big Cats staff. Keep doing what you're doing. Asanta Sana!!!
J. Dennis
CA
Email Karen and Lucas | 65+ years of age | Experience level: first safari
Most memorable adventure of my life!
Beyond our wildest dreams!! Thanks to our incredible guide Eric, who understood the animals habits and knew where they hung out and hunted, we were often within 6 feet of the animals: lions and cheetahs lying in the shade of our vehicle, herds of elephants and wildebeests meandering around our parked vehicle while grazing, zebras by the side of the road staring at us. The animals know we won't attack so they carry on their life as if we are one of them. Our greatest thrill was seeing the wildebeest river crossing, being close enough to hear their grunting efforts as they swam against the swift current. Eric also had a great sense of humour, which makes life fun as the 3 of us spent 12 hours a day together for 6 days. I strongly recommend African Big Cats for their prompt, thorough communication planning exactly what we wanted. They provided a perfect trip for a very reasonable cost. Their vehicles are pop-top which allows 360 degree viewing, and safety during close encounters with the wildlife. In the comfortable tent-camps we could hear the animals passing our tents during the night. A fantastic adventure.
US
Email Kimberly Rotticci | 65+ years of age | Experience level: first safari
AMAZING!
How do you quantify greatness? From start to finish, African Big Cats Safaris was incredible. They went above and beyond in EVERY aspect.
My first encounter was with William Frank. Mr. Frank was immediately responsive to my initial inquiry; listened to what I wanted from our safari adventure and carefully curated the exact itinerary and experience for which we were hoping - through several iterations of itineraries and experiences...until he had it perfect.
From there, Naomi Kavishe took over as our coordinator for our safari. Naomi was amazing, patient and kind. She fielded a million questions from big to small. Naomi was communicative; available for any issue and timely in her responses. She was informative as to processes to get visas, clothing advice; transportation needs; and, she even made spa appointments for us!!
The icing on the cake was our safari guide, Festo. Oh my goodness! He was the BEST. Festo greeted our group of four (crazy) ladies celebrating MY 70th birthday. Little did he know what he was in for. Festo was sweet; kind; incredibly informative and knowledgeable about the wildlife and environments; fun and funny. Festo made every single moment special and a memory for a lifetime. I cannot begin to thank him for the over the top experiences we had. Festo, the Team Kudu Mamas LOVE you!
If you're looking for a quality safari experience, I cannot recommend African Big Cats Safaris enough. They nailed it!
CA
Email Kayleigh | 35-50 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Brilliant company
I could not recommend this company enough. It is a locally owned and operated. Emmanuel who owns the company met with us personally at the beginning and end of the trip which was a nice personal touch. From enquiring about the safari till arriving, the communication was excellent and we always had speedy replies to any questions. The safari was completely tailored to what we wanted, and included lots of activities to learn about the culture as well as animal viewing.
From start to finish, the whole tour was amazing. Our guide Venance was an expert on all the animals, including the birds. Venance also told us lots of details on the culture and local tribes. Venance seemed to be able to spot an animal from a mile away. His eyes were so sharp that we'd regularly be the first to spot animals and enjoy them alone before other vehicles would joined. We seen the big 5 as well as so many other animals that lives in the park.
The vehicle was well stocked with water, soda and beers the whole trip. Nothing quite like having a beer when watching a Pride of lions.
Venance could not have taken better care of us and made us feel well cared for and safe the whole trip. Venance also provided a lot of flexibility to make the trip exactly what we wanted it.
All of the accommodations chosen by African Big Cats were brilliant. We did not have a bad meal the whole trip. And we certainly did not go hungry at any time. There was so much food.
We would recommend this tour group to everyone and we would not hesitate to use African Big Cats when we return to Tanzania.
PT
Email Lucy | 50-65 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Trip of a lifetime thanks to African Big Cats
We were very impressed with African Big Cats Safaris! We organised a 14 day combined trip of safari and a beach stay in Zanzibar. There was very good communication for the organisation of our trip and the booking process went smoothly thanks to Salim and Naomi. We appreciated the personal touch of Emmanuel meeting us before we started the trip.
We had never been to Tanzania before and the safari was an incredible experience. This was hugely due to our amazing guide, Charles. He collected us from Arusha airport and was so knowledgeable and informative, but very humble and friendly - we immediately felt at ease with him. We were blown away by the different animals we saw and enjoyed learning about them from Charles. We appreciated that he was so patient and we were able to stay and watch the animals longer, whilst other vehicles sped off as we really got to see how the animals behaved in their natural habitat!
The Moonbow lodge and Embalaki camp we stayed in on safari were both of high quality with very good food. The amazing staff at these accommodations really go out of their way to make you feel welcome!
Our stay in Zanzibar at the Z hotel was equally amazing. The hotel is lovely, with excellent facilities and is right by Nungwi beach which is stunning.
We really recommend African Big Cats as a company and would use them again given their professionalism in the organisation of our incredible and unforgettable experience!
CN
Email Runxue | 20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
A great experience with Claus
My friend and I had a wonderful experience! Everything was nice and clear starting from email communications to the end of trip. The staffs are very professional and helpful. All the acommadations recommended are comfortable and clean. Our guide Claus is dedicated and friendly, he tried his best to make sure we see as much animals as possible, we truely appreciate his effort! Overall, it was a great experience. I would recommend African Big Cats Safaris to friends and family.