50-65 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Personal Professional Service - Amazing Safari
I then came across JT Safaris online. A very different tour company to what we are used to and a very informal way of planning, but the reviews I read were very complimentary and Julius’ excellent reputation was clear to see. Julius wanted to know exactly what I was looking for and would WhatsApp me ideas regarding parks, activities and places to stay, which I either went with or changed if they weren’t quite right. We agreed on a 15 day itinerary with a couple of nights in Nairobi pre Safari and 4 nights on a Diani beach post Safari. Julius organised literally everything from picking us up when we landed at JLIA, to park/trip tickets, hotels and our return domestic flight down to Ukunda/Diani. We paid approx 45% in advance and the remaining balance when we arrived.
We were greeted at JKIA by a very warm & friendly Dominic, who became our driver and guide for the duration of our safari. Dominic was amazing, easy going, chilled, funny - he worked tirelessly driving us from park to park and then delivering each game drive with such enthusiasm and good humour. He is a skilled & safe driver and has a wealth of knowledge which he readily shared with us as he answered our endless questions. His understanding of the animals was awesome and his ability to spot so many different birds that we would never have noticed - all whilst navigating difficult terrain. Dominic went out of his way to help us find literally every animal - and by day 2 we had already spotted the ‘Big 5’ as well as the Samburu ‘Special 5’ Throughout our safari, Dominic planned our best routes to keep us safe and away from drama (we were there during the riots/protests)
What was most impressive was when I became ill, Dominic immediately offered to take me to hospital. On declining this, he arranged for the camp nurse to see me and must have updated Julius. Within 15 minutes, the nurse was with me and I received several messages from Julius checking I was OK and that I had everything I needed. The care I received from the wonderful nurse at Samburu Simba Lodge and JT Safaris was exemplary and greatly appreciated.
On our last day, we needed to get to JKIA to pick up our flight to Diani. It was destined to be a difficult day as the protesters had planned to block all access roads into the Airport. As always, Dominic was prepared for this, he planned for us to leave extra early to ensure he got us there safely and before the protesters impacted our route. The whole holiday was seamless, thanks to Julius' meticulous planning and our fabulous Safari guide Dominic. I would highly recommend JT Safaris and hope to return very soon. It really was a dream come true. Thank you JT Safaris.
PT
50-65 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Great Experience!
All the experience was great, with very good drivers/guides. Jackson and Joe are real Masai Warriors. We saw all the Big 5 (4 already in day one). The Masai have a good "nose" to find the hidding places. Did learn a lot about the Masai culture and traditions. Kenyans are so friendly and helpful, everywhere you go. The hotel in Amboseli wasn't a good choice but all the rest was great. The extra Balloon ride was a real "Out of Africa" experience. The Masai Village was also a great experience. The box lunch after a few days gets boring, but we're there to use the time to see the wildlife. Thanks Paul!
50-65 years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
Wonderful knowledgeable people
Very knowledgeable and helpful guides and porters. Great trip.
NL
20-35 years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
10/10!
We booked our first selfdrive tour after some previous overland tours booked through African Travels. The tour itself was perfectly designed with much room for our preferences and budget. We camped at places that we felt really suited us. During the trip itself, we needed a lot of help from African Travels due to flight problems (African Travels changed the itinerary accordingly during the night, whilst we were flying) and car problems. Our car had several hick-ups and every time we called African Travels, they made sure we received the right support, in such a way that it would affect our itinerary the least. We are very greatful for the great design of the tour and all the support African Travels has given us and we wouldn't book else than through African Travels for our next trips!
US
35-50 years of age | Experience level: over 5 safaris
The crew of Shipungo Safari & Tours was exceptional, accommodating and knowledgeable.
Being from South Africa originally, our bar is set high because we have been on so many safaris before. Kem, our guide for our journey was exceptional. Kem made sure to get us to a sighting that was shared over the radio communication system so we had sightings, such as Wild dogs, that we have never had before. He was also very knowledgeable. We have learned so much from him. Back at camp, Shine and Ody, took care of everything, from setting up our campsite to providing us with delicious meals. They were all very courteous and our camp accommodation was also very comfortable. We had a safari of a lifetime!
DE
20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Very good Safari and Guide!
Good: It was a very nice experience. We saw many animals (Big 4). Our Guide was very open-minded and explained everything really good and answered every question. Food was cooked instead of Lunch bags, what was nice. Accommodations were great.
Not so good:
Double Meal prep (from the lodge).
Accommodations of all guests we're different. In Ngorongoro we've stayed 20 km away from the campsite of the others people. We've started very late at 9 and didn't see any Rhinos. (Normally the Programm would say start at 6 for crater).
US
20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Efficient
We had a terrific experience with Kevic. From the beginning the communication with Bob, the owner, was seamless. He answered many of my questions and concerns in a timely, professional and clear manner. He will give you a detailed breakdown of everything you are paying for so there is no surprises. I checked the hotel and campsite prices quoted to me through the company with their websites and the prices seemed to match up meaning there is minimal to no mark up. Bob even went out of his way to meet with us when we were going through Nairobi and introduce himself and ask how our trip was going. We had the pleasure of having Alex as our driver who was amazing. Very knowledgeable and personable and he got us everywhere we needed to be in a safe and timely fashion. He knew his way around the parks and knew a tremendous amount about all the animals and the culture of the people there. Alex went above and beyond to show us a great time. He also helped arrange getting some items I left at one of our camps back to Nairobi and went out of his way to pick up my stuff. My wife and I had a terrific time with Alex, Bob was terrific with arranging everything, and we cannot recommend Kevic enough for anyone coming to Kenya for safari.
DK
35-50 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Magic Tour. Magic Guide
Very good knowledge guide , i think the best safari guide possible, we have seen the Big five like very close possible , everything was perfect , and a spécial mansion for Magic Mike .. this Land is full of surprises , and nature is Amazing ...
AE
35-50 years of age | Experience level: first safari
They are very efficient, proactive and meticulous with an excellent guide
Highly organized, provide superb options overall. We visited Amboseli, Nakuru, Naivasha and Masai Mara. Great stay, food and safaris. Highly knowledgeable and patient guide named Moses. Aparajitha and her team at Africa Keys are outstanding tour organisers.
CN
20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Luxury Camp Became Ordinary Camp
Our contract says we stay in Matawi Serengeti Camp in Serengeti, however, when our driver took us to this hotel, the hotel manager said we did not book it. After 3 hours contacting the travel agency, we had to move to Kenzan Tented Camp at 9 p.m., which was horrible sitting in a car in a dark wilderness for an hour. Matawi Serengeti Camp is a very luxury camp, but Kenzan Tented Camp is just a 3-star camp. However, the travel agency said these hotels were the same and refused to compensate even if I showed the rating of the hotels.
Moreover, our car's brakes did not work and we hit a cow. Luckily we did not hurt, but we did not know about the cow because the driver did not stop.
