Hosted Journeys to extra ordinary places
Cuckoo Safaris
- Located In:
- Size:
- 10-20 employees (Founded in 2019)
- Tour Types:
- Custom mid-range & luxury tours that can start every day
- Destinations:
- Price Range:
- $150 to $600 per person per day (USD, excl. int'l flights)
Reviews
An amazing experience our first time to Africa, we would definitely recommend Cuckoo to others!
Thank you for a very positive experience our first time to Africa! What could have been very stressful and nerve-wracking experience was alleviated through booking their safari itinerary. We booked the 12 Day Hwange National Park, Victoria Falls, Chobe National Park to Okavango Delta trip. The booking process was very simple, almost too much so that we were just nervous that maybe we missed something. Tatenda was very responsive whenever we needed to contact about the booking/itinerary.
When we arrived in Victoria Falls, Simon and Tatenda were waiting for us in the arrivals area and we were immediately off to Hwange. Simon was great about explaining our overall itinerary, but also just welcoming us with some background knowledge about the places we were passing through- the economy, the people, the customs, etc.
The lodge at Hwange was breathtaking. The open atrium was beautiful, the rooms were classy and had great views, and the back area where the fire pit and pool were perfectly overlooking the watering hole. We would just relax and observe the animals- it was our favorite view of any of the lodging we stayed at for the duration of the trip. Our guide Bheki was extremely knowledgeable in his craft and prompted our fascination with tracking. Not to mention a new appreciation of birds! His observation skills were enviable and we saw so many animals there, including some we didn’t think we would see at all or didn’t know existed!
We returned to Victoria Falls and had an amazing sunset cruise. The drinks and snacks with the ambiance of the Zambezi River were lovely. We were so impressed with the ability of the captain and crew to spot animals from the boat. The following day, we saw the namesake falls itself, which was breathtaking. There was a bit of time to explore the town and then we went to the private game reserve with our guide Nico that ended with delicious bush dinner.
Our transfer from Zimbabwe to Botswana was actually incredibly smooth. Simon drove us to the border for handoff to Gift, who was from Puku Safaris- Cuckoo’s sister company in Botswana. Border crossings can be quite hectic, but Gift guided us and a family of 4 through this process very smoothly and patiently. It was the easiest border crossing that my very well traveled friends had ever experienced.
Our two Chobe game drives via vehicle were guided by the talented Figo. His driving skills were second to none- I want to drive like him when I grow up. He was very pleasant and amiable, answering all of our incessant questions about being a guide, the parks, plants, animals, and whatever crossed our minds and he had a great sense of humor. Everyone in our vehicle wanted to see a leopard, and he was able to track one the first morning. We were the first to find it and one of a few vehicles that were able to see it before it disappeared like smoke into the brush. It was amazing.
The boat game drives in Chobe were also really cool and you get to see the animals in a much different way. The guides on the boats showed us different things, so each evening was a unique experience. It was definitely worth it to do game drives via both land and water. We ate dinner at the Chobe Safari Lodge buffet each night and the food was incredible, which I didn’t expect to say about a buffet.
As we ventured out towards Maun, our itinerary seemed less full, but that was likely due to the remote locations we needed to travel to. Hearing the animals at night and watching the elephants drink water at Elephant Sands was spellbinding. The meerkats were adorable and so worth the morning drive.
Once we reached Maun, Mr. Lee transported us to the Mokoro dugout canoe expedition. I would say that this is less of a canoe experience and more of a bush walk, for those who are participating. It is performed by people in the community and helps to support them. I think we walked for about 2 hrs. The following day, Mr. Lee deftly guided us in the Moremi Game Reserve, and poetically checked off the last of the animals we wanted to see. It was perfect.
A note about food and beverage- we were worried because we have dietary restrictions (vegetarians and food allergies), but everywhere we went was very accommodating and we didn’t have to worry about it at all. Cuckoo did well to relay our specifications, and everywhere that fed us either knew or confirmed with us what we could eat. Buffet style meals always had plentiful options for all of us. They also constantly provided bottled water so we never had to worry about buying our own or be concerned about having to make bold choices.
Overall, I can’t say enough about what a great experience Cuckoo made this. They booked unique, comfortable accommodations. They ensured that we had extremely competent guides who made sure that we were safe and respectful of wildlife while still getting to see a wide array of animals and educate us about an expanse of knowledge. Simon was very friendly and kind- making sure we were comfortable, reminding us of our itinerary, answering our questions, giving us suggestions, and educating us about life for people and animals alike. Thank you so much for everyone responsible for these bookings because it was a once in a lifetime trip. I hope to visit again one day.
SG
Email Rozlina | 35-50 years of age | Experience level: over 5 safaris
Excellent
Our visit to the Victoria Falls was very interesting and enriching. Thuba was an excellent guide, who was very patient with all our questions. He was friendly and easy to talk to. We had an insightful walk and he was very knowledgeable. We had a fun time taking pictures along the 16 check-points along the Victoria Falls while enjoying nature! There was no rush and we could take as long as we want at each point. Thanks Thuba… it was very memorable indeed.
Email Emmanuel | 35-50 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Professional they know what they’re doing
I’m happy and there people are professional and there know what there doing and will come back again
Email Jaimini | 20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
An Unforgettable Victoria Falls Experience Thanks to Thuba
Our family’s visit to Victoria Falls was nothing short of magical, and the credit goes entirely to our incredible guide, Thuba. From the very beginning, Thuba showed a level of professionalism, warmth, and expertise that elevated our entire experience.
Thuba’s knowledge of the Falls—the history, geology, wildlife, and hidden gems—was truly impressive. He didn’t just guide us; he told the story of Victoria Falls in a way that brought the place to life for my family and I. Every question we had was met with enthusiasm and detailed insight, and he always seemed to know the perfect spots for photos, views, and quiet moments away from the crowds.
What truly stood out, though, was Thuba’s patience and genuine care. He made sure my whole family felt safe, comfortable, and fully immersed in the experience. He took his time with us, answering their curious questions and keeping us engaged with fun facts and memorable moments. His kindness and calm energy made the tour feel relaxed, enjoyable, and perfectly paced.
Thuba went above and beyond throughout the entire trip—from helping us navigate the area to sharing local culture and stories that made us appreciate Victoria Falls even more. By the end of the day, it felt like we were exploring with a trusted friend rather than just a guide.
If you are visiting Victoria Falls, I cannot recommend Thuba highly enough. His passion for his work, his deep knowledge, and his warm personality turned our visit into an unforgettable family experience we will cherish forever.
Email Keith | 50-65 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Very friendly and so much fun.
Thuba and Michael were excellent hosts and tour guides which made our day very special and which will always be remembered. Thank you both very much. Definitely plan to be back.
Email Shaylene | 20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Thuba was a great tour guide and made the tour very fun!!
Cuckoo Safaris was an amazing experience and I highly recommend it. It was lovely to have someone guiding through the Victoria Falls track and telling you about its history.
RO
Email Maria | 35-50 years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
Great places, great people, wonderful time
We chose a 12 day tour of Zimbabwe and Botswana which proved to be an excellent option; although some parts of the drive journey were quite long, we had a very friendly and inspiring guide and a very good storyteller too, Simon, who knew how to capture our attention and tell us about African places and traditions. The safaris were excellent and I mention here Bhecki (the guide in Hwange) and Africa (the guide in Victoria Falls) who made it possible for us to see The Big Fives in the first two days :))
The accommodations were excellent, the places varied, the price-quality ratio very good, everything was organized down to the smallest detail and the people responded promptly to all our needs and questions.
So Thank you Cuckoo Safari, Thank you Simon for a memorable vacation and certainly if I were to go back there I would make the same choice!!!
RO
Email Horia Manolea | 35-50 years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
Awesome
The tour was professionally organized, balanced in activities and the way it was carried out was according to plan. A special note for the guides who took care of us. Especially Simon, who was attentive to our needs, made small adjustments to the program according to the needs of the moment and especially provided us with both important information about the places visited and a spectacular immersion in the cultural world of the places. His stories about local traditions and especially his qualities as a storyteller will remain in our memory as a bonus of a memorable trip.
RO
Email Claudia | 35-50 years of age | Experience level: first safari
An unforgettable safari experience with Cuckoo Safaris and our amazing guide, Simon
We’ve just returned from a fantastic trip through Zimbabwe and Botswana, organized by Cuckoo Safaris, and it truly exceeded all our expectations. Everything was impeccably arranged, from logistics and accommodation to the activities and the carefully chosen routes.
One of the biggest highlights of this journey was without a doubt our guide, Simon. He was not only an excellent guide, but also a wonderful person—professional, attentive, passionate about his work, and always ready to share fascinating information about nature, wildlife, and local culture. We felt safe, well taken care of, and constantly inspired by his stories and explanations. His presence made the entire experience truly special.
The accommodations were very good, comfortable, and thoughtfully selected, each with its own charm—from lodges with stunning views to peaceful places right in the heart of nature. The activities proposed by Cuckoo Safaris were varied and well-balanced: exciting game drives, walks through reserves, cultural experiences, and visits to spectacular locations. Every day brought something new and memorable.
In conclusion, I wholeheartedly recommend Cuckoo Safaris for their professionalism, organization, and attention to detail. And if you’re lucky enough to have Simon as your guide, you’re in for a truly authentic, enriching, and unforgettable experience.
It was a wonderful journey—one we will never forget!
Amazing holiday with Cuckoo safari.
We booked the 5 day quadruple package. Wonderful holiday with knowledgeable Thuba as our guide in Zimbabwe and attend to our needs and requests. Itinerary was according to booking. Almost every leg of the itinerary was filled with excitement and surprise. starting from the airport. 2nd day game drive with Nixon was excellent, and the bush dinner was a great experience. 3rd day morning river cruise in a boat on Chobe river with July as our guide was amazing. We seen hippo, croc, big herd of elephants and the beautiful scenery, Thanks to July experience navigation on the river. We are all thrilled. Very important, bring child birth cert if traveling with them. Custom Legal requirements to prevent child trafficking in Africa. Overall a very enjoyable and satisfied holiday with family.