20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Because of MDS, we found magic in the places, the people and the culture.
The communications were excellent, especially the response rate and the specificity with regards to answering all the questions.
The trip went above our expectations since we didn't realise it was a private safari, the resorts we stayed at were wonderful, the guide Joseph was also one of a kind and went above and beyond to show us everything he could. We saw 4 of the big 5 and so many other animals.
We were very happy with the places that Angelina hand picked for us, both resorts (at Masai Mara and Nakuru) were fabulous!
Perhaps it would be better to have included the fact that the safari was private and also state the type of vehicle that would be used to move etc.
We felt that a map would have been useful, showing the client the routes that would be used to get to Masai Mara (and also include a key with a straight line for good roads and jagged line for bumpy roads, so that the client understood the length of time that would be spent on bumpy roads). This map would have been especially useful for the Lake Nakuru leg of the journey since we didn't understand that we would spend 6 hours getting there. We were happy to have seen it, as we spotted the black rhinos and the other rhinos up close, but to be honest, if we knew it would have been an additional 6 hours in the van, we might not have chosen this option.
It would also be useful to print 2 copies of the itinerary, one for the client and one for the driver. We only had one copy which the driver lost and as a result, we ended up wasting time on our already short stay at Nakuru because we tried to check in to the wrong resort.
Other than these very simple recommendations, we would certainly suggest using Magical Destinations when planning your safari in Kenya. Angelina also provided many options for activities in Mombasa!
US
50-65 years of age | Experience level: over 5 safaris
Excellent attention and bespoke travel experience
In planning for a trip one year out, I 'interviewed' US, European, and African travel companies. Matthys of Discover Africa listened to what I wanted to accomplish for the group of 10, was willing to make changes and make better suggestions than the ones I had, and did so at a price point that could not be beat. That was all pre-departure. Once the trip started, Matthys' knowledge of his country and his understanding of our group and my desires as a group leader, showed up in the stunning lodgings he selected (locations, services, and amenities), the activities he had planned and suggested, and his partnership with Ilios as a guide and transport service in many of the places we visited. I was the only one of the 10 who had been to Africa and because of the professionalism, creativity, and individual attention that Matthys gave to us, the others are all ready to return with friends and families - and to use the excellent services of Discover Africa. Many thanks, Matthys and team!
IT
50-65 years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
Excellent service
Emmelyn and the team at Savanna Safaris & Tours have been extremely helpful and engaging.
Clearly having a local service helps and pays out.
Highly recommended!
20-35 years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
Mount Kilimanjaro Trek and Serengeti Safari
We booked both the mountain climbing and the Safari through Kilimanjaro brothers.
Both were incredible
For the Trek - led by our guide John was extremely patient and answered all our many questions regarding wildlife/culture/scenery. The chef, Massawe prepared us fantastic meals in difficult situations. The porters took great care of us, supplying us with tea and snacks!
For the Safari - Juma was our driver, he went to great lengths to make sure we saw as many of the animals as possible - he also got us a fantastic view of the Wildebeests crossing the river Mara!
We stayed at the Maramboi lodge - all the staff were fantastic - as was the food and the quality of the room - a beautiful place.
I don’t have anything negative to say - we were happy with everything.
Thanks for a trip of a lifetime
20-35 years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
Harrold has exceptional knowledge and was a great guide
Harrold was such a kind man and he knows his stuff, he explained everything for all of us to understand. He made us laugh too.
I can recommend Kurt Safaris.
US
20-35 years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
3N Bwindi and Queen Elizabeth
Flew to Entebbe the night before the Gorilla trek. Accommodation at the outdoor tent (budget trip) was very nice! We stayed in that place for 2 nights. Following morning we began the trek early morning, suggestions for clothing, long pants to avoid the ants from crawling in, good camera, decent walking shoes, (sneakers with a good sole are okay). The overall experience of the trekking was amazing, a bit rigorous if you're out of shape, but very beautiful scenery. Dan was overall a great leader, very attentive to satisfying our needs. The third night we stayed at a different location. For a budget trip, the place was okay, it's a small lodge and the fan wasn't that strong for the room, the bathroom situation was also a little odd, but it's understandable for budget. The fish we had for dinner that night at the small lodge was very good though. From there we drove to Queen Elizabeth National Park and we were able to see a lion. There was a lot of driving involved which we were aware of, so for those who'd rather cut out that time, I would suggest flying into Kigali if visiting Bwindi. Otherwise, we really enjoyed the gorilla trek the most, and the packed lunches for out trip from the tent/lodge were very good. Dan is also easily accessible when you reach out to him with questions which is a plus.
HK
20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Excellent communication with comprehensive travel plan that cater my requests
The team was great in replying my emails and it is beyond what i have expected. The safari tour itself is a once-in-a-lifetime experience where my guide, Eusty is so professional in explaining different type of animals and surrounding to us.
US
50-65 years of age | Experience level: first safari
We had a superb experience with a fun-loving, family-friendly, professional!!!
Godson keeps his word! From the start, he was an excellent communicator with quick responses even with a seven hour time difference. Trust him!...I was very picky about accommodations and did a lot of research on my own. My selections proved not to be nearly as good as his recommendations which were fabulous. He is humble and an expert in his field. He provided top-notch services and we always felt safe. We are a family ranging in age from 16 to 60 and he made lasting impressions and connections with each one of us. Our 5 day private safari was amazing! We saw the Big 5 and sooo many cheetah! I think it was 7 in one day!!! It was a trip of a lifetime! I highly suggest that you leave your safari in the caring hands of Godson Adventures!!! He and his guides will take care of you!!!
20-35 years of age | Experience level: over 5 safaris
The Kurt Safari's Kruger experience was flawless and the cherry on top was very knowledgable guides!
The Kurt Safari's Kruger experience was flawless from perfect timings and well maintained vehicles to very passionate and knowledgable guides. You could feel the excitement when they told you about any animal and nature in general. They know the park very well and we sow so much, but were also made to appreciate big and small sightings. I had special appreciation for their etiquette when it came to how they drove and carried themselves at sightings when other companies could not care less. What a memorable day.
US
35-50 years of age | Experience level: first safari
My family had a wonderful time due to our knowledgeable tour guide Joseph.
The communication was good between myself and Chris, and I appreciated that they treated my family very well. We were able to have many new experiences, and learn many new things. Thank you for your above and beyond hospitality.