50-65 years of age | Experience level: first safari
The Trip of a Lifetime!
I had dreamed of visiting Africa for 45 years, ever since I was 6 years old. When I was finally able to begin planning my long awaited trip, I researched the countless operators extensively.
I wanted a company with a proven track record of delivering bespoke, individualized itineraries suited for what I specifically wanted to see in my dream safari. I didn't want a package deal put together for just any tourist.
I'm incredibly blessed to have found the great people at Shadows of Africa. My point person for 9 months was Karen Maki who was very knowledgeable and tailored a beautifully curated tour hitting my main focus areas: the Great Migration, a River Crossing, the Big 5, the Maasai Mara, the Serengeti, the Ngorongoro Crater, Lake Manyara, and Lake Amboseli.
During those 9 months, she patiently revised and changed lodging and accommodations until they were just right. I can't thank her enough for her patience, professionalism, and flexibility.
I had incredibly high expectations for this trip and Shadows of Africa delivered in every way.
I want to specifically thank our guides: Anthony, Zamo, and Charles.
We spent the most time on our trip - about 8 days - with Zamo, and he is an exemplary guide. Without him, our adventure wouldn't have been anywhere near as incredible as it was.
Zamo is an extraordinary safari leader, supremely knowledgeable about the wildlife, their behaviors, territories, and the landscape. His skill in anticipating and predicting animal movements put us in the exact right spot for remarkable encounters dozens of times.
Most incredible of all, I told him that my biggest dream was to see one of the legendary wildebeest river crossings. I knew it was difficult to see one and there was no guarantee, but thanks to Zamo's expertise, tenacity, and perseverance, he put us front row to an absolutely breathtaking crossing of thousands of wildebeest across the Mara River from Tanzania into the Maasai Mara in Kenya.
It was one of the most beautiful moments of my life and I owe it all to Zamo Tito. He is a credit and an asset to Shadows of Africa.
Were there some hiccups? Of course. There are bound to be a couple in journeys of this length and complexity, but Shadows and their personnel handled everything in due course.
I highly recommend Shadows of Africa. Don't hesitate in using them to book your dream African safari!
ES
20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Materuni Waterfalls
We absolutely loved the Materuni Waterfalls tour! Our guide John was amazing — not only did he make the whole experience really enjoyable, but he also went above and beyond by helping us solve an issue we had with our luggage. The village visit was also a highlight: the coffee-making explanation was super interesting, and the local guide there was incredible as well. Highly recommended!
20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Felix was experienced, caring, and fun!! We could not have had a better guide.
Communication with Savannah Explorers was always quick and easy. They were very accommodating to our group. The Rover was in great condition, well taken care of , and comfortable. Our guide Felix was the best! He found every animal we asked for and was so knowledgeable.
The only negative thing was one of our accommodations, Africa Safari Karatu Lodge, wasn’t up to “luxury” standards. The rooms cleanliness wasn’t great and the showers were not functioning.
But everything was simply exceptional and we will definitely be using Savanah Explorers again.
CA
35-50 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Great Tanzanian safari experience!
We went on a 4 day Serengeti, Ngorongoro, and Materuni waterfall tour and really enjoyed it. It was nice to see different parts of this region of Tanzania and the safari experience blew our minds. It exceeded our expectations. We got to see all the animals on our wish list in their natural habitats, and our guide was really friendly and helpful and went out of his way to make sure we got to see the animals when they were spotted. The camping was as described, so make sure to pack warm clothes and be ready for real camping but it added to the authentic experience as Zebras were roaming through our campsite one night! The experience was seamless as we were picked up at the airport and didn’t have to worry about anything along the way. All in all we are very pleased with our experience and would recommend it!
GR
35-50 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Amazing experience
We had a wonderful safari experience with Serengeti Green Tanzania. From the first contact, Judith was always available for us to explain and adjust our program according to our needs. A special thanks as she ensured our transport to the airport as we had a very early flight out of Arusha. We had the 3 day safari to Serengeti and Ngorongoro, stayed in great lodges, enhancing the experience, and overall it was good value for money. Our guide Calvin was an excellent driver and guide, making sure we take the best photos and videos, by always feeling safe. Overall we highly recommend Serengeti Green Tanzania. Judith and Calvin, thank you for the memories!
CN
20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Excellent Safari Experience with Our Guide Kush
Our safari with Kush was absolutely fantastic! Not only is he super experienced at spotting even the most hidden animals and driving like a pro, but he also has a great sense of humor that kept us laughing the whole way. One of the highlights was singing our hearts out together in his car—he even enjoyed our Chinese songs! It made the trip feel so fun and personal. Thanks to Kush, we didn’t just have a safari, we had an adventure full of smiles and music. Highly recommended!
35-50 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Peter was extremely knowledgeable, professional, and ensured the safety during the entire time.
The safari’s were an experience of a lifetime. I loved how we were able to go to many different locations and learn about the rich history of Tanzania and its wildlife. The tour company made sure we were on time, communicated throughout the trip, and made sure we had everything we needed. Our tour guide was the best part. We felt a real connection to the community and I would encourage more Black Americans to engage in the wonderful experience.
CN
20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Guides are great
Traveling with Tanzania Creative Expeditions was the perfect choice, guides were friendly, smart, and made every moment of our safari unforgettable.
FR
35-50 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Nathan is amazing
The expérience with Nathan is incredible! The team is very professionnal. All was perfect: guide, conditions for sleep and the food was very good. Thank you Simba for your kindless!
Najoua
20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Libe is knowledgeable about all the animals and land. He gave us an unforgettable experience.
We had the most incredible safari experience, all thanks to our amazing guide, Libe. From the very start, it was clear that Libe is not only extremely knowledgeable about the animals and the land, but also truly passionate about what he does.
He made sure we saw all the animals we hoped for, and many more. All while sharing fascinating information about each one. He explained their habits, behaviors, and fun facts that made the experience even more engaging. His deep respect for the wildlife and his ability to spot and track animals was very impressive.
Beyond the game drives, everything about the trip was top-notch. The lodges and campsites we stayed at were very comfortable, well-maintained, and perfectly located. Each place had its own charm, and we always felt well taken care of. And the food is absolutely amazing! Every meal was delicious, fresh, and thoughtfully prepared, adding an extra layer of enjoyment to the trip.
If you’re looking for a safari that combines adventure, education, comfort, and incredible hospitality, this is it. We can’t recommend this company, and especially Libe highly enough. A five-star experience all around!
