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 Lynzie Rockett | 35-50 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Lack of communication
Complete lack of communication. Had us pay for a person that wasn’t even there! If a deposit means something different in Tanzania than America it would have been nice to know. African Big Cats advertises one lodge on their website but downgrades last minute to another. The downgraded lodge is on the complete opposite side (East/West-of Zanzibar) and rooms smell terribly of mold/mildew. Two safari days were not needed (the first and last). Those need to be removed from the itinerary completely. Note that most of these safari companies go to the same exact spots. As evidenced by the massive amount of jeeps at every stop and animal sighting. Skip African Big Cats and go with one of the MANY other companies. Our guides (Zab and Jumma) were good!!
Reply from African Big Cats Safaris
Posted on Sep 7, 2023Dear Lynzie, Thank you very much for your review, and i am very sorry to hear that the trip wasn't to your satisfaction.
I want to take a moment to address some concerns and provide clarity regarding your recent safari experience with us. It's essential for us to ensure your understanding and satisfaction.
First and foremost, regarding the issue of a participant who couldn't join the trip at the last moment, I understand how frustrating this can be, especially when plans and expenses are already in place. Originally, the safari was booked for seven people, but just two days before your arrival, we received notification that one person had to cancel. According to our policy, cancellations made within 15 days of travel would result in a 100% loss of the trip cost. However, recognising that this situation was beyond your control, we decided to deviate from our policy and charged only 50% of the cost. This decision still resulted in a loss for us, but we wanted to accommodate your circumstances as best as we could. We genuinely wish we could have offered a full refund, but unfortunately, we couldn't pursue this option due to the policies of the accommodations involved. Please know that we tried our best to assist you in this matter.
Concerning the accommodations themselves, we want to clarify that we never altered the options we initially quoted. When the trip was booked in January, it was based on a pre-made tour that Crystal, the person who booked on behalf of your group, selected from our website. While we do provide the flexibility to change accommodations, Crystal opted to stick with the original itinerary. Upon confirmation, we sent a comprehensive itinerary, which included the accommodations she had chosen. However, in the low season (April), our website underwent renovations, which involved changes to some itineraries and accommodations. One of the affected itineraries was the one Crystal had selected. The accommodation in Zanzibar was changed from Amaan Bungalows to Nungwi Dreams. We were unaware that Crystal was using the website itinerary as a reference for your entire group instead of the final itinerary sent to her via email. This miscommunication led to the belief that you were to overnight at Nungwi Dreams instead of Amaan Bungalows, as per your original quote.
Lastly, regarding the duration of the safari days, it's important to understand that the length of the safari significantly influences the quality of the game drive. Your arrival flight on the first day was scheduled to arrive in the afternoon, making it impossible to arrange any game drive on that day. Furthermore, your subsequent flight directly to Zanzibar meant that you could only accommodate a half-day game drive at Manyara on the last day. Given the limited number of days your group had, extending the safari was not feasible. Please note that the duration of the safari directly impacts the quality of the experience, as more extended periods allow for better exploration of the parks and more private game drives, as our guides have the opportunity to venture beyond the standard routes.
I sincerely hope that this clarifies the concerns you had about your recent safari experience. We greatly appreciate your feedback, and I apologise that the trip did not meet your expectations. Our commitment is to continually improve and ensure the best possible experience for our valued clients.
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.
CA
Email Kimberly | 65+ years of age | Experience level: first safari
African Big Cats made our Safari Experience Exceed our Expectations!
From the very first enquiry with African Big Cats, we knew we had chosen the best! Throughout the planning, they responded promptly and efficiently to our enquires and requests for information. We booked the 5 day/4 night luxury private safari (Tarangire, Serengeti, Ngorongoro and Manyara) and it was perfect. We started our Tanzanian adventure in Moshi. Emmanuel met us there the day before to give us our briefing and our guide Kanti picked us up to begin our adventure the next morning. Our vehicle was a comfy and well equipped Land Cruiser.
Huge kudos to our guide Kanti, he was so incredibly knowledgeable about all the wildlife, the birds, the landscape…we learned so much from him. I don’t know how he was able to spot things of interest so quickly and often from a distance! He made sure we had an opportunity to stop whenever we wanted to for photos etc. It was clear that Kanti’s goal was to make our safari experience the best and he most certainly achieved that. He was funny and kind and it was a joy to travel with him.
All of the accommodations arranged by Emmanuel and staff were first rate! The staff at all the lodges were kind and helpful, the accommodations exceeded our expectations, the meals were five star + (out of five!)
We began our safari with Tarangire National Park and it was our favourite. We saw soooo many animals. Zebra, elephant, lions, hippos, giraffe, wildebeest and close up! The landscape of the park is varied and beautiful. Our first night was at the Escarpment Luxury Lodge, wow. Gorgeous huge bungalow with our own little patio from which we watched a family of baboons stroll by. The best dinner ever sitting outside overlooking the landscape as the sun set. Next day we were off to the Serengeti…a long drive but so much to see as the view changed. We spent two nights at the Serengeti Mbalimbali Soroi which was magnificent (sorry, loads of superlatives but they are well deserved). After a long day in the land cruiser it was lovely to return to our rooms and have an outdoor shower (so cool!) and then sit out either on our own balcony or on the lodges’ huge patio and watch the amazing sunset. Many thanks to Emmanuel at African Big Cats and the Soroi for arranging for/accommodating a last minute request regarding our booking there. Our days in the Serengeti were all that we had hoped for with so many animals in their natural environment. Then we were off to the Ngorongoro crater which is such an amazing site…a very different landscape from the Serengeti, lush and lots of animals in large groups by the water. It’s where we saw our first rhino (at a distance). Kanti made sure to get us in the best spot to watch the rhino through our binoculars. Our last night was at the Ngorongoro Retreat Lodge…I think our favourite lodge because we were able to walk around their beautiful grounds, something you can’t safely do elsewhere due to the other lodges’ more remote locations. Again, the staff and food were fabulous. Last day was Lake Manyara which was unique but there were fewer animals out and about and we had been so spoiled with the sights on the first four days. Then to Arusha to end our safari at the Cultural Heritage Centre. This place is a shopping experience and museum…our recommendation for the best opportunity to buy your gifts/memories. Beautiful craftsmanship and very good prices. We met with Emmanuel as he wanted to get feedback about our experiences (all 100% plus) and then Kanti took us to the airport for our flight to Zanzibar.
In summary, the safari exceeded our expectations. It was well worth the cost. It was apparent from the very beginning that African Big Cats is dedicated to ensuring we had the best experience, and they did.
Tips for travellers. Bring comfy clothing for hot weather and remember it’s quite cool overnight and in the morning. African big cats provides a list of items to bring with you…they have covered it all. There was a pair of binoculars provided but I was happy that I had brought along my own small ones so we could both watch the goings on. The people of Tanzania are some of the most kind and helpful people we have met in our travels. They made us feel so welcome.
Please don’t hesitate to contact African Big Cats to help you achieve the experience of a lifetime. Thanks to Kanti, Emmanuel and Naomi!
Kim and Peter
ES
Email Luis | 20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Fantastic, impossoble to forget.
Absolutely satisfactory. Very recomendable, if possible I would like to repeat the experience.
CH
Email Daria | 35-50 years of age | Experience level: over 5 safaris
The Trip of a Lifetime with African Big Cat Safari – Unforgettable!
I recently returned from a 12-day safari with African Big Cat Safari through Northern Tanzania, and I can confidently say it was the most incredible travel experience of my life. From start to finish, everything was flawlessly organized, thoughtfully planned, and executed with heart, passion, and deep local knowledge.
We visited all the major national parks – Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire, Lake Manyara, and more. Each day brought something new and breathtaking, from endless savannahs dotted with wildlife to dramatic crater landscapes teeming with life. And yes – we saw all the Big Cats: lions, leopards, and cheetahs, often at close range and in action. The sightings were phenomenal, thanks to our guide’s expertise and keen instincts.
Speaking of our guide – he was nothing short of amazing. Deeply knowledgeable, incredibly friendly, and with a sixth sense for wildlife spotting. He not only shared facts and stories about the animals but also helped us understand the culture, people, and heart of Tanzania. This wasn’t just a safari – it was an immersive journey into the soul of the country.
The vehicle was comfortable, spacious, and well-maintained – ideal for long drives and rough terrain. We always felt safe and well cared for. The lodges were luxurious, full of character, and perfectly located. After a day out in the bush, returning to such comfort and warm hospitality was pure bliss.
What truly surprised me was the value for money – the entire experience felt like a high-end, tailor-made trip but at a very reasonable price point.
This tour was more than a vacation; it was a deep connection to nature and culture. We not only witnessed the best of African wildlife but also had the privilege of meeting local people, visiting villages, and gaining insights into daily life in Tanzania. These human moments were as powerful as the wildlife encounters.
If you're considering a safari, look no further than African Big Cat Safari. You’ll leave with extraordinary photos, unforgettable memories, and a heart full of gratitude.
Highly, highly recommended!
Email Kerry | 35-50 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Khalid was exceptional
We did the 4 night safari that covered Tarangire, Ngorongoro, Serengeti and Lake Manyara. Our guide, Khalid, was nothing short of exceptional. He knew so much about the parks and the animals, birds and plants in them, as well as his country and the people. We learned so much from him and his enthusiasm for nature was inspiring. We saw lots of animals up close and in unique situations and, although there is an element of luck, we have no doubt that a lot of our experiences were purely down to Khalid's knowledge and experience. An absolutely unforgettable time in Tanzania, thank you Khalid!
CH
Email Jonas | 35-50 years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
A lifetime experience
We had a multigenerational Safari with 2x >70 years of age, 2x around 40 years of age and two kids 9&12 years.
Our guide Obedi was great and soon realized, that we are also very interested in birds. So apart from the big cats (lion, leopard and cheetah) the elephants, giraffes, hippos, warthogs, antilopes, etc., he also explained and found lots of wonderful birds for us. He drove very carefully and safe and did everything to fulfill all our wishes. The car was good and we didn’t experience a single problem. When he went to the petrol station in Serengeti on the third day, he left us at the visitors center and organized a great guide which showed us around.
We chose Big cats Safari because my sister and her family traveled with them last year and were extremely satisfied, and we were not disappointed a single minute of the trip.
We would definitely choose Big Cats Safari and Obedi again
CN
Email Samantha | 20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Awesome experience with big cat
Generally, the accommodation and food, and transportation are sooooo good. I'll strongly recommend my friends to visit Tanzania, travelling with Big Cat. To highlight, Ngorongoro Crater's Acacia Lodge is an ideal place for vacation. Meanwhile, the arrangement they suggest is really nice, including drive-in and fly-out strategy. They are very experienced, so just feel free to go and travel with their suggestion:) Hope you can enjoy the safari.
CN
Email LIZ ZHOU | 20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Excellent service and unforgettable wildlife encounters
I first got in touch with Big Cat through BookingSafari back in February. At the time, I was speaking with a few different local operators and had some good conversations with other sales reps too. But overall, Joshua from Big Cat gave me the best impression. He was always patient and responsive, and very reliable whenever we had questions or special requests.
We already had a few camps and a rough route in mind, so the communication was smooth and efficient. Once we got the final quotes and confirmed the camps we wanted, we decided to go with Big Cat right away. Then came a long wait of almost six months before our actual trip at the end of September.
On our first night, we were welcomed by the manager who carefully went over all the key information with us. He was friendly and very detailed, which made us feel well taken care of. The next morning, we took a small domestic flight to the northern Serengeti, where our guide Lovio was already waiting for us. He led us through an amazing Safari journey. On the very first day, we were lucky enough to witness two river crossings by wildebeests. Over the next few days, we managed to see almost all the animals we hoped for, except the black rhino which was a bit too far away.
Lovio’s vehicle did break down twice during the trip. The first time, it caused some delays, but after the car was fixed, he really gave his best effort to help us spot more wildlife. The second time it happened was on the way to Ngorongoro Crater. Honestly, I guess we were just too lucky in our own way, since not everyone gets this kind of “experience,” right?
On the last afternoon, while we were heading back to Arusha, I suddenly came down with acute food poisoning. Lovio was incredibly helpful and brought us to two hospitals to make sure I got the treatment I needed. Luckily, my condition was under control by that night, and I was able to catch my international flight the next day without issues.
I’m truly grateful to Big Cat and especially to our guide Lovio. This trip gave us unforgettable memories. I hope the next time I visit Tanzania for another Safari, I’ll have the chance to meet them again.
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!