Chenggong Tours
- Located In:
- Size:
- 5-10 employees (Founded in 2023)
- Member Of:
- AMREF, KWS, TRA & TOSK
- Tour Types:
- Small & medium group tours (Budget & mid-range)
- Destinations:
- Price Range:
- $200 to $800 per person per day (USD, excl. int'l flights)
Reviews
IT
Email Erika | 20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
This agency isn't very reliable as soon as there's a problem (caused by their own mistake), they do
I used Chenggong for a 3-night private safari. The pre-departure service was good; we agreed on the accommodations best suited to us and our budget.
On the morning of the first day, they showed up on time, and we began the tour. The basic organization was good; I was initially happy with the service offered, BUT THEN THERE WERE SOME UNPLEASANT SURPRISES!
Already 20 days before departure, the agreed-upon price had changed because I'd been informed of the increase in park entrance fees: we'd have to pay an additional $60 per person. Of course, I wasn't thrilled with the increase, but I realized it wasn't anyone's fault, and I paid the extra money. I simply asked the agency to accommodate us with the price, given the already high price we were paying (remember, it was a private safari). They simply ignored this question and pretended nothing had happened.
The first day in Amboseli was fine, until we arrived at Tsavo East National Park, where we discovered that CHENGGONG HAD NOT PAID FOR ALL THE PARK ENTRANCE FEES: we were missing one day of entry, as our lodge was inside the park (and they had recommended it because it was cheaper than others outside the park). After contacting the agency, they began to argue, claiming that it was a new feature of the park that we had to pay for the first day's stay only, due to the price increase on October 1st, for which we had already paid a premium. I don't know whether to believe them; the basic problem is that even if it were true, they should have known, it's their job, AND THEY HAD TO TELL US. They completely ignored it, or pretended not to know. Had we known, we could have agreed to pay more or change our accommodations for one outside the park.
After speaking with Chenggong, they even refused to admit it was their mistake, saying, "It depends on the park." Shouldn't the agency I book through know about it? So, why did I pay them?
In that situation, we had no choice but to pay: the accommodation was already paid for, and by not entering, we would have lost that money too.
I repeatedly asked the agency to acknowledge their mistake and pay them or refund us (at least a portion, to make things easier).
RESULT: WE HAD TO PAY ANOTHER $180 on top of the nearly $2,000 we'd already paid for a package that included "all park fees," but that wasn't the case.
The icing on the cake: at the end of the safari, we were supposed to take a morning train from Voi to Mombasa, but Chenggong, WITHOUT TELLING US, booked the evening train, ruining all my plans. Anyway, once we took the train to Mombasa, there was supposed to be a driver to pick us up from there and take us to Watamu, also organized by this agency. Result: we arrived in Mombasa and not only was the driver not there, he hadn't even told us he was late, so I feared no one would come. It was late at night, the taxi drivers were getting very pushy, and I didn't have our driver's number. Chenggong didn't answer: he had to call a local to get in touch. The driver, who I don't think had even been notified, arrived at the station more than an hour late, laughed in our faces when he saw us exhausted and angry, and drove terribly. Chenggong claims he was stuck in traffic: first of all, if he had been serious, he would have left earlier given the city traffic; secondly, he should have at least told us. Finally, more than an hour's delay is unacceptable after all these mistakes!
We arrived in Watamu after midnight, so even our plans for the next day were dashed.
For days, RIDICULOUS excuses followed, but never a hint of fixing the situation, or even refunding us part of the money we lost due to their mistake, something they didn't properly inform us about. I asked for two weeks straight to speak to the boss, but there was always the excuse, "He's busy, he's at church, you'll talk to him on Monday." BUT I STILL HAVEN'T TALKED TO ANYONE.
Final advice: only use agencies that someone you know has already tried firsthand, especially for such important and expensive experiences. Don't ruin unique experiences like a safari for untrustworthy people like these! Don't even consider Chenggong.
Email Nora C | 20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Exceeded Expectations!
We had an amazing time on our 5-day Kenyan tour that included Amboseli, Lake Naivasha, and Maasai Mara. Our accommodations were incredible and our game drives exceeded our expectations! Charles, our guide, truly made the difference. He was knowledgeable, kind and went above and beyond to make our experience truly memorable!
Email Eva | 20-35 years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
The team at Chenggong are very professional and effective in communication
Our experience was nothing short of extraordinary. Staying at the Jambo Mara Safari Lodge we enjoyed the perfect blend of comfort and nature. The game drives were thrilling, with sightings of the Big Five and the awe-inspiring Great Migration. Our guide's expertise ensured we didn't miss any wildlife action, from a pride of lions lounging under acacia trees to a leopard resting in a tree.
Evenings were magical, with sundowners offering stunning sunset views and a memorable bush dinner under the stars. The visit to a local Maasai village added a rich cultural dimension to our adventure. The Maasai Mara safari provided a profound connection to nature, unforgettable wildlife encounters, and a taste of local culture. This is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking an authentic and enriching safari experience.
Email Mary | 20-35 years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
Amazing experience with Professional Agents
I booked a five day Tour to different destinations with chenggong tours via safari booking and every price that was placed in safari booking it's the same price they gave me. I really loved there professionalism and energy while arranging my tour. My wife and I saw all we wanted. We will definitely book another tour next year with you. Thanks!! Good Job!!
Email Domnic | 20-35 years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
Chenggong Tours is very welcoming and offers affordable safaris to your destination
Chenggong Tours is affordable and friendly. They are quick to communicate and assist you with any enquiries. The tour was amazing in their van. The guide was very knowledgeable and I enjoyed my game drives. They give you a chance to choose an accommodation that is within your budget which is good. I will travel with Chenggong Tours once more.