US
50-65 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Listened and took our thoughts and desires made them into an unforgettable adventure the Serengeti!
Our recent journey to the Serengeti with Dancing Zebra Company was nothing short of spectacular. From start to finish, every detail was meticulously planned, ensuring an extraordinary safari experience.
Our guide, Frank, deserves a special mention for his exceptional expertise. We were amazed by his knowledge of the wildlife. We were thrilled to be able to tell everyone we saw the Big Five. One day in the Central Serengeti, he took us on a day-long adventure to watch the migration, and we topped the day off seeing a leopard with its prey in a tree. Wow, what a day. We had no idea there would be so many different species of birds. It was as if Frank knew every species by heart, right down to their distinct calls. This deepened our appreciation for the Serengeti's rich biodiversity.
Our stay at Lemala Resorts was beyond our wildest expectations. The accommodations were luxurious, yet seamlessly blended with nature, offering breathtaking views from our rooms and the main areas. The staff were remarkable; their hospitality and attention to detail contributed to an exceptional and personalized experience. From delicious meals to cozy, well-maintained lodgings/tents, every element was thoughtfully prepared. We would like to especially call out Adam at Lemala Ngorongoro Tented Camp and this team, who ensured we had a spectacular lunch on the crater floor. A great addition to your safari adventure. Our stay a Lemala Nanyukie was made spectacular by Wright and Tabitha, to name a few. The sunset during our sundowners there will be forever imprinted in our memories. Our time at Lemala Kuria Hills was awesome because of Seth and Josephine, and the entire team. The private sundowner there was awesome as well. The balloon ride by Serengeti Balloon Company is a must.
To anyone considering a Serengeti safari, I highly recommend Dancing Zebra and Lemala Resorts. The Coffee Lodge was amazing as well, John our water and manager ensured we had a spectacular time. A call out to Thomas, the bartender, who made us some spectacular drinks. The combination of expert guidance, exceptional service, and the stunning beauty of the Serengeti makes for an unforgettable adventure.
Thank you to the entire team for creating such a monumental experience.
50-65 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Wow! A Fantastic Experience!
Wow! What a trip! Big Apes Africa helped us to create a lifetime of memories in only 8 days.
For logistical reasons our week was split between 3 guides - and all 3 were exceptional. Nothing was too much trouble for them and they were very caring, friendly, extremely knowledgeable about the wildlife, 100% customer-focused and professional. They were clearly very proud of their country and wanted us to see as much of it as possible - with a full-on, non-stop itinerary. We were very well looked after and felt extremely safe at all times. Thank you so much Blair, Gerald and Ismail.
Days were long (with early starts and late finishes) and it was hard going, with many hours spent in the (non air conditioned) van on endless potholed roads - but that only added to the authentic African experience. As we were on a private tour we had lots of space in the van and driving along with the windows open allowed us to experience a comfortable trip with a cool breeze, with the multitude of sights, sounds and smells of the real Uganda.
Highlights of the trip were many - but of course the gorilla trekking was top of the bill. Spending an hour in very close proximity to a group of 9 gorillas (including a baby) was beyond incredible and we feel very privileged to have experienced it. We flew into Kigali (but out of Entebbe), so other highlights included golden monkey trekking in Rwanda, the genocide museum in Kigali (gut wrenching and very upsetting but, nevertheless, a must see); and, in Uganda, chimpanzee trekking, rhino trekking, a visit to the Equator, a guided walk in Bwindi village and swamp (where we saw numerous types of monkeys and birds), a boat cruise on the Nile (with wildlife viewing - including crocodiles, hippos, giraffes and elephants) to Murchison Falls, a drive to the incredible top of the Falls and 3 safari drives in Murchison Falls National Park, during which we saw many animals - including giraffes, buffalo, many types of gazelle and antelope, elephants, warthogs and a lioness with a cub in her mouth, and numerous birds.
All accommodation was excellent (with great service and good food) and we particularly enjoyed the Bweza (jungle) lodges at Bwindi and Kibale. Elephant Oasis at Murchison Falls was also great; and in a beautiful location.
The trip was great value for money, with all meals, park entry fees and trekking permits included and we cannot recommend it highly enough. Big Apes were helpful from start to finish and Bella was particularly helpful with the administration, being happy to accommodate a change to our itinerary at short notice when we requested it.
If in doubt... book with Big Apes Africa!
CA
65+ years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
Travel through the wilderness of Africa with people who know what to do and how to do it!
Before the tour started, our host, Nankunda Bob Rodney, did a fantastic job organizing our trip and did a marvellous job assisting us in our special requirements. Our guide, Francis Kyererezi, was absolutely amazing. From the start of this adventure through to the end, each day was more exciting than the day before. Francis found all of the Big 5 for us as well as so much more than we expected. Truly a professional organization with experienced staff and friendly, accommodating hosts.
We were more than satisfied with the service provided and feel that value received was more than the cost.
Our days were well timed without excessive driving and we were well informed about plans for the day. The accommodations were wonderful, the lodging staff were great as were the rooms, meals and settings.
The local people were very friendly, polite and eager to ensure our stay was the best, and it always was!
I would highly recommend The Shuttle Hospitality Tour Group to anyone who is thinking about visiting Africa. When you take this tour, you will leave with memories that will last a lifetime!
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me on WhatsApp or by email ([email protected])
Thanks again to Bob and Francis for making this trip memorable.
IE
35-50 years of age | Experience level: first safari
amazing 10 days in botswana
Our 10-day mobile safari through Botswana in June 2024, organized by Shipungo Safari & Tours, was an extraordinary adventure that exceeded our expectations as first-time safari-goers. From the wild landscapes of the Okavango Delta to the vibrant wildlife of Moremi, Khwai, Savuti, and Chobe, Shipungo crafted a trip that left us in awe. Below is our feedback, highlighting what made this experience exceptional and a couple of minor areas for improvement.
# References
[1] out photos from the trip are at: https://photos.app.goo.gl/vNp5xQVmz6mxfwvi6
[2] i wrote a blog detailing our experience. start here: https://hegdestravels.blogspot.com/2025/01/botswana-2024-conclusion-and-summary.html, and then work through the links in this page.
[3] i converted my blogs into a book: https://amzn.eu/d/0I38njr
# What Worked Well
Outstanding Guides and Staff:
The Shipungo team, led by Mark, was phenomenal. Our guides—Orphan (Ofilwe) in the Okavango Delta, Kem for Moremi and Savuti, and Tops for the Chobe River cruise—brought the wilderness to life. Orphan’s sagebrush scent-masking tips and calm handling of close elephant encounters were unforgettable. Kem’s storytelling and skillful tracking, like spotting a leopard on patrol, kept us captivated. Tops’ insights into elephant behavior on the Chobe River added depth to our cruises. Their expertise, honed through Botswana’s rigorous guide certification, ensured we felt safe and enriched throughout. Shine, our chef, and KG, our camp hand, were equally exceptional, making every moment seamless and memorable.
Well-Crafted Itinerary:
The itinerary was perfectly balanced, covering the Okavango Delta, Moremi Game Reserve, Khwai, Savuti, and Chobe. From walking safaris and mokoro trips in the Delta to thrilling game drives in Moremi and Savuti, and serene Chobe River cruises, every day offered something unique. Highlights included witnessing a buffalo kill by nine lions, tracking leopards, and enjoying sundowners by the river. Shipungo’s flexibility—lingering at a lion sighting instead of a scheduled boat ride—prioritized wildlife experiences, making the trip truly special.
Exceptional Camp Experience:
The bush camping was raw and authentic, exactly what we wanted. Shine’s vegetarian meals, like veg burgers, quiche, and oven-baked bread, were a delight, far exceeding expectations for camp cooking. KG’s efficient camp setup, including tents with open-air showers and pit latrines, added to the adventure without compromising comfort. Mid-trip clean linens and towels were a thoughtful touch.
Personalized Service:
Mark’s attentiveness during planning set Shipungo apart. He patiently answered our many questions, tailoring the trip to our family’s needs. His gesture of delivering laundered clothes and duffel bags in Maun eased our transitions between locations, reflecting his commitment to a personalized experience.
Value for Money:
Compared to luxury camps, Shipungo’s mobile safari was budget-friendly without sacrificing quality. The authenticity, safety, and exceptional wildlife encounters made it an incredible value, perfect for those seeking a genuine safari experience.
# Areas for Improvement
While the trip was near-perfect, a couple of minor points could enhance future experiences:
Night Drive in Khwai:
During itinerary planning in April 2024 I asked Mark to add a one‑night stop in Khwai expressly for a night drive. Mark happily obliged, but once there it became clear our guide Kem lacked night‑driving experience and felt uncomfortable spotlighting after dark, so the drive was cut short. A guide with proven night‑drive expertise - or clearer pre‑trip guidance on its limitations -- would have set better expectations. That said, the Khwai River sundowner and the next morning’s superb game drive more than made up for the disappointment. We suggest Shipungo review how night drives are staffed and briefed in future.
First Aid Kit Oversight:
The operator forgot to bring a first aid kit to the Okavango Delta and then to the rest of the safari, which could have been problematic had we needed it. Thankfully, our own kit covered us, but Shipungo should ensure a kit is always included for safety.
# Overall Impression
Shipungo Safari & Tours delivered an unforgettable journey through Botswana’s wild heart. Mark’s meticulous planning, combined with the expertise and warmth of Orphan, Kem, Tops, Shine, and KG, made this a five-star experience despite minor deviations. From close encounters with elephants and lions to serene sundowners, every moment deepened our appreciation for Botswana’s wildlife and culture. We wholeheartedly recommend Shipungo to anyone seeking an authentic, well-organized safari and are already dreaming of our next adventure with them!
US
50-65 years of age | Experience level: over 5 safaris
Excellent safari, well organized and perfect follow through until the final day
Could not have had a better experience. Well organized, great guide and equipment and they were available throughout the safari for changes as airline schedules are prone to change.
US
65+ years of age | Experience level: first safari
It was truly magical
We visited Uganda july 3rd 2025. We booked about 8 months ahead of time. The communication and recommendations in the meantime were great. Aina and Kolo answered all questions graciously. Upon arrival at airport we were picked up and transported to the ViaVia lodge at 1 in the morning and the great staff there had waited on us and had a dinner waiting. They were gracious and kind. Tehn onto Isunga lodge and greeted from the nicest people at a fabulous lodge. Edie our guide on the way up was very knowledgeable. The next day we did chimp trekking and the chimps were within feet and the rangers were great. Next we went to Elephant Hab lodge in Queen Elizabeth National Park. The staff was fabulous and special thanks to Barbara and Claire as they went above and beyond as my wife had become nauseated on the way in. The view from the room over the Savannah where elephants hang out was breath taking. The monkeys in the trees a bonus. The lodge was spectacular. We went on safari the next day and saw many elephants, wart hogs, 4 lions and many ungulates. Truly amazing. Next on to Ichumbi Gorilla lodge at Bwindi. Truly the height of the trip. The lodge again was fabulous and beyond expectation. We trekked to see the gorillas with the rangers and got within feet of the silver back and mama gorillas with babys. So surreal. Edie was our guide and cannot say enough good things about him. Great driver, knowledgeable and always up beat and smiling. He is the greatest guide I have ever had. To sum it up, its a great company, their pick of lodges was impeccable and the tour was very well planned. I cannot recommend them enough. PS get a porter for the gorilla trek
TH
65+ years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
A wonderful family holiday: A country full of wonder.
We holidayed as a family with 2 teeenage children (any experience must fight against their smartphones!) I had been to South Africa 2 years after democracy and I did have some trepidation regarding crime. First let me say I found the people wonderfully friendly and while I am sure some crime exists and visitors must be careful; a lot of effort has gone into making South Africa safer.
First we had a 5 night trip to the Kruger with Endless Summer. Our family had one guide and one driver (Wayne and Lucky). Both were very good and we are grateful for their excellent service. Kruger is massive and not a safari park. It is real wild and there can be long periods without excitement and then suddenly it explodes with life-remembered memories. We finished with Blyde Canyon for natural physical beauty.
Next was Addo Elephant Park, just 2 nights of self-guided safari. We followed this with self drive down the garden route to Capetown. The garden route is a trip of natural beauty. Capetown is wonderful but 5 days was maybe a day too long despite the children experiencing new thrills ( dune buggying and para-gliding). Capetown is an example of the efforts that have gone into making the streets relatively safe with a host of 'security' personel.
If you want something different than just beaches try South Africa. Remember to check weather for the time of year!
NL
20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
The day at Ngorongoro Crater was like a dream.
Our day at Ngorongoro Crater was like a dream. The guide took us to all the places whose beauty is still visible. But the most memorable moment was when we saw two elephants standing under a shady tree, and right next to it, a few zebras were resting peacefully. The scene was so still and lively, as if nature itself had stopped for us for a while.
The guide advised us not to talk at that moment - just look and feel. Honestly, it's not a camera.
50-65 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Professional, well organised and very welcoming.
Renai, recently prepared a bespoke trip for myself and son over 13 days. We can’t thank them enough for providing us with memories of a lifetime. Our guide and driver “Living” embraced our every need and want during the trip. He kept us entertained and was always seeking feedback on how he could assist us and make our trip better. I would highly recommend Renai to anyone wanting to experience the real Africa.
US
20-35 years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
A perfect honeymoon!
We had such an incredible honeymoon, organized by Kathi at African Welcome Safaris! From the very first communication, Kathi took into consideration our preferences and ideas and tailored an itinerary for us. She paced the trip so that we could enjoy every moment, but still fit in all of the activities that we wanted. The tour guides she selected were knowledgeable, kind, and the safari lodges were stunning. We have so many memories that we will treasure forever! We have already been recommending her to all our friends and family, and would absolutely use African Welcome Safaris again!
