35-50 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Good Safari, Broken Promises
Positives – The safari days were great with good guides and good animal viewing.
Negatives – Those days were cut short, the itinerary was changed without communication (hotels and locations), we were left stranded in the middle of the trip and eventually more money was demanded, many activities missed.
We had read a 2024 review on Trip Advisor, and hoped it was a one off and gave grace that the operator may have learned from then. Reading the other recent reviews, there is a clear pattern. The most concerning was the lack of communication once we arrived in Africa. They changed the itinerary and accommodations without communication in advance and without response during the trip. The tour operator eventually communicated that they underbid the trip and knowingly let us embark on a trip they could not fully pay for, despite us paying them in full for the quoted itinerary. Without our guides advocating for us and our own advocacy, it's unclear what would have happened. As it was, we spent significant additional money to get ourselves through this trip which did not match our promised itinerary. This trip was no small expense for us, and was a celebration of milestone birthdays, a milestone anniversary, and a bucket list trip when life has reminded us it is short many times recently. The substantial disruptions to our trip and itinerary, in our opinion, the unprofessional nature in which this operator handled things, the lack of communication, and resulting stress overshadowed the positives of the trip.
The operator says they will reimburse us the added expenses. We will update this review and star rating if that occurs.
CO
35-50 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Highly recommended - ASK FOR EDWARD
Golden Trips is a responsible and professional tour company. They fulfilled the entire itinerary perfectly.
Our 14-day trip included Nairobi National Park, Tarangire National Park, Lake Eyasi tribes, Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Serengeti National Park, and Zanzibar.
Leticia was in charge of helping us customize the trip, including the places we wanted to visit, the hotels and lodges where we wanted to stay, and the activities we wished to do. She is very patient, takes the time to offer different options, and is always willing to answer questions and clarify doubts. Throughout the trip, she was constantly attentive, checking in with us to see how everything was going and if we needed anything.
Edward was the perfect guide: he has a very sharp eye, is an excellent driver, and knows animal movement patterns. He anticipates where the animals will go, allowing us to get the best shots when they pass right beside the vehicle. He doesn’t like crowds and doesn’t chase after them; instead, he prefers to find the animals himself, always alert and searching. He’s also very patient, friendly, and has a great sense of humor. Plus, he takes the best photos! The complete package. We are very grateful because he made our honeymoon an unforgettable trip.
I highly recommend booking your safari with Golden Trips, asking for Edward as your guide—you won't regret it.
Daniela & Alonso from Colombia.
IN
65+ years of age | Experience level: over 5 safaris
Guide Khalifa was deputed by the almighty for our safe and adventurous safari at Kenya
The entire Safari at Masaimara, Nakuru and Amboseli was handled by the professionals of Axis Safari with precision and perfection.
The patience and perseverance of guide Khalifa to locate the animals in the remote corners of the park was praiseworthy.
The stay at Jumbo Mara and Amboseli Sopa lodge was something to remember for years.
Keep on doing such good work for making our life enjoyable.
65+ years of age | Experience level: over 5 safaris
He was considerate, professional, kind and I would recommend him to anyone.
We had an incredible trip. I had no idea there was so much to see in Uganda. Our guide was instrumental in our success in seeing wildlife. Although we had a few issues with our vehicle, our guide was prompt in getting it repaired and it never once interfered with our trip.
I have come home ready to endorse Exclusive Gorillas Vacations as I would definitely reach out to them again. You will not be disappointed in the flexibility concerning the planning of your trip or the execution.
CN
20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
A big thank-you to our brilliant guides Tumaini and Alex and their back-up team！
Highly recommended! First，the bill for our trip is reasonable👌🏻 and then their great arrangements made our first Africa trip fantastic and unforgettable.
Huge thanks to Tumaini and Alex! They speak fluent Chinese and know China inside out—super humorous and responsible too.
Even the long drive to the national park felt totally easy and fun, no suffering at all! 😂
BE
50-65 years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
Very dedicated guide
We enjoyed our safari in Samburu NR reserve very much. Our guide, Graham, was very dedicated and knew very much about all the animals and even had a notebook with pictures to show the differences between several types of one animal.
In regards to the touroperator itself we had an issue with the quote not being fully correct, which lead to having to pay an extra entrance fee upon arrival, which is a bit unfortunate but mistakes happen.
DE
35-50 years of age | Experience level: first safari
The tour operator is highly accommodating and exceptionally helpful
From the beginning of the tour to the end, Shelton was always available when we needed recommendations for dinner or activities. His organization was excellent, allowing us to save a lot of time and fully enjoy the entire journey. The tour is highly recommended.
65+ years of age | Experience level: first safari
Fantastic
So many positive things to say: informed, well intended, respectful, responsive, supportive, caring, and understanding are a few. We did what I would call over to top exquisite trip. When asked what we were looking for it was hard to answer but they figured it out. So many choices decisions! Sambambili was our favorite-location, staff, knowledge, and setting with beautiful lodging.
Learned the difference between private reserves and National Parks - good to know. Saw all 5 and Wild Dogs in Sabi Sands and in Kruger no lion or rhino but all the others. My favorite was Tiyani the 4th generation leopard with Mike and the lion at night and zebras and giraffes and hyenas and rhinos and more! Thanks for the wonderful times.
20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Very Fun Experience with Good Value for the Money Paid
The tour was a success for my girlfriend and I in several ways. We saw many animals in the parks and were comfortable in the vehicle during the tour; overnight accommodations were good and we felt like we got a good return for what we paid. Communication was good for the most part between the operators & driver & us.
Our driver Laurence did an exceptional job; he was friendly, knowledgable, and receptive; he got us close to many animals on many occasions, stopping anytime anyone asked, telling little facts about the animals we were seeing, and made sure everyone was comfortable in the car. He even remembered which beer I said I liked and brought some for us on the last day.
Overall, I would recommend this tour.
IN
50-65 years of age | Experience level: over 5 safaris
Just perfect
*Review:*
"We (me and my better half) recently had the thrill of exploring the Massai Mara Game Reserve with Guide Mr. Benson, our safari guide. Their expertise and knowledge of the forest and its inhabitants were truly impressive. From spotting rare birds to herbivores animals to tracking majestic animals, Mr. Benson made the experience unforgettable.
Their professionalism, enthusiasm, and attention to safety ensured a smooth and enjoyable journey. The forest came alive with their stories and insights, making us appreciate the beauty and wonder of nature.
Highly recommend Mr. Benson for an unforgettable safari adventure!"
"Unforgettable Maasai Mara Adventure!"
*Rating:* 5/5 stars
*Review:*
"Maasai Mara, you've stolen my heart! Our safari experience with Tour Operator Koi Travels ,our tour guide was truly exceptional. From spotting the Big Five (lion, elephant, buffalo, leopards and rhinoceros) except leopard to witnessing the majestic wildebeest migration, every moment was breathtaking.
Our guide, Mr. Benson was knowledgeable, friendly, and passionate about sharing the secrets of the Mara. The sunrise over the savannah, the roar of the lions, and the stunning scenery made for an unforgettable experience.
*Highlights:*
- Witnessing the Great Migration
- Spotting rare animals, like hippos and cheetahs
- Learning about Maasai culture and traditions
- Enjoying bush breakfast or sundowners
*Tips:*
- Be prepared for early morning game drives
- Bring sunscreen, binoculars, and a camera
- Respect wildlife and follow guide instructions
*Recommendation:*
Don't miss this incredible experience! Book with Koi Travels Nairobi for a well-organized and memorable safari adventure. Stay Endeem Mara Resort at the outskirts of Oloolaimutia gate, to feel unforgettable forest experience .
*Rating Breakdown:*
- Game drives: 5/5
- Guide: 5/5
- Accommodations: 5/5
- Overall experience: 5/5
