IL
20-35 years of age
Very organized, gives a sense of security
I had a great experience with this tour company. The service was excellent, the staff was professional and reliable, and everything was well organized from start to finish. The tour itself was enjoyable and well planned, and I felt that it offered very good value for money. Overall, I would highly recommend this company to anyone looking for a reliable and high-quality travel experience.
IL
50-65 years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
Professional, honest and caring. Personally tailored with love.
Trip through Kenya - Tanzania - Kenya - ClassicJourneysofAfrica in Kenya and Tanzania 10 days:
Day 1 + Day 2 : Desmond our guide took in an fficient and kind transfer from the airport to hotel SAROVA PANAFRIC. Great 2 days with the elephant patting and giraffe feeding. A great warm up to the upcoming trip especially for our 11 years old. The driver was professional in his job and very nice, we had great talks about Kenya, life, Premier League football. The hotel had a wonderful staff all around, Dinner 1st night was fantastic, lunch in Nairobi Day 2 also , a great setting, the hostess taught us swahili and about life in kenya especially for woman. The meeting at the woman's market (getting stronger by working traditional art) was inspiring and relaxing. The welcome with songs and dances so fun and emotional. Words are remembered with music. Products great, a bit expensive in our opinion but it's a contribution for a better life there do everywhere. The day was full of traffic and the driver wonderfully navigated it. The car was great but it was tough with the heat and the pollution without A/C. We got great guidance about complicated local things too. Dinner was amazing. In the balcony by the pool we were recepted like VIP, so kindly that we could quickly get rid of the embarassment, as just regular people. Felt like being a beloved guest , not a foreign visitor. The hostess kind and caring treatment of our child has to be mentioned . He was hungry and we thought he can get a Pizza but they did not have the regular stuff. Seeing he was upset, came the amazing chef Joel, suggested he'd find a way to improvise pizza. Discussed it all with him and us as mediators. But it was the cook and the child. He made a great Pizza, yhat was finished it in a heartbeat (It reminded him and me of my Mom's home improvised Pizza he loves). Wow! The room was very good and the bed phenomenal in comfort. I had my best sleep in months. I was back in my beloved Africa from the 1st moment (call me naive but no color barrier) in Africa I feel just like a human being among human beings, even African among Africans, we live on the geographical border of Africa. Only in Africa. Than day 3, we met ,a long trip with lots of explaining and laughs, meeting people, Kenyans and visitors, different facilities along the way. Toilets always shining, to Amboseli. I think Oilepo lodge. it was funny to be treated as important people, they were warm and kind, place was charming. We got Urakau room which was a delightful little twist (as Urakau/Hippo is top favorite of mine). Rest was good and than the Magic begins with afternoon Safari in the best hands I can imagine. OK we are 1st afternoon in Amboseli, end of part 1 ,it is going to take me a long time. Feeling Hakuna Matata.
With guide Dixon encouraging gently to drive in the afternoon and not be lazy, we went on our 1st Safari. Amboseli NP. We were warned about the dust, it was dusty but no big deal. With Dixon's driving it is so relaxed. He explains gently and in detail, answers question, the wonders of Kilimanjaro , clouds pretty much covering but still the top is floating above the clouds in the temperate afternoon . Then the animals. A rare sight of a Striped Hyena with lots of excitement not only from us guests but the host as well. Dixon saw it , pointed to us, we could not , but luckily our son has an amazing eye and we watched in awe as that incredible monster of an animal (it looks monstrous in a smiling way) , stayed with it until it was off to its business. That alone was mesmerizing but later lionesses nursing, cubs, lions , the incredible Elephants and all the rest. Fantastic. Learned to appreciate Zebras and Giraffes, it was all a sight to behold, our guide explained queitly with right pauses to let us take it all in. I was already into animal behavior, son explained too, We were a happy and content family, those natural worries enjoy it thouroughly, nature and sometimes challenging conditions and many days still to follow. I did not want to return but as the equator night was quickly falling, had to. So happy. After dinner (with lots of ceremony) going to another comfortable bed (there was no fan so I asked and then there was). Kid had a down after the high, worried about phone time, boredom, missing home and friends. Just let him talk and complain a bit while channeling to spirit of Africa into his . We had a good negotiation with Dixon (about next day's schedule) who was so wonderful, giving and let us give him too, disappearing into the night in a magical way while leaving some of his spirit to take care of us. I put my anti mosquito in, they took anti malaria medication, I took my usual daily meds ... Next day good breakfast, feeling safe at the lodge, escorted gently ... another day in Amboseli NP, a full day with a coffee/Cocacola break, a lunch break, everything .. the oldest Elephant in ghe area with meter plus tusks she was, drinking near the people, observing those weird creatures on two sitting on chairs and holding some instrument to eat, making noise. Perhaps she's familiar with the social monkeys... Cheetas, more elephants and all the wonders, monkey fun. Seeing the other visitors from America, the far east, Europe etc., listening, observing human beahavior, chatting with the more open ones. Then Hippo's (so our favorites cheetas and hippos starred, the later would bring much more amazement, fun and awe later ). A marvelous day, tiring too, Dixon worked really hard with a long drive ahead of him and he was a gift. So knowledgable, kind, a leader, a teacher, open minded to us sharing stories, I do miss him. Relaxing at the lodge.
Day 5 an early long drive to the border, went very well and interesting with mount Kili showing different faces, peaks (I only remember Uhuru peak). People along the way. In the lodge meeting young local people and fascinating, fruitful, I think honest discussions. Felt like home just a bit better (me). Kenya to Tanzania, a tearful goodbye from Dixon and joy as Stanley came out of nowhere to Karibu (welcome) us and we felt safe under his guidance and care from day 5 to day 9. Some mess at the border as 2 of our visas were typed wrongly by the Tanzanian embassy, they made new ones on the spot but we had to pay 100$ for something we already paid for. Some of the unspecified expected issues in travels. Stanley was THE BEST , he was so great, showing youth and maturity and everything needed to feel a welcomed guest in sweeping-you-off-the-feet Tanzania. The roads , towns, villages, fields, hills, forests all the way to Arusha, we bought more snacks for our child and hosts in a small town (buying stuff at a small supermarket was such fun too and kind of REAL!) . Better have local currency. Had an incredible spicy ginger tea . We made it to Mtu wa Mbu. Had a short and and an unforgettable tour with BARAKA on the Tooktook. He taught and gave a kind stand up so we enjoyed so much the rise fields, red banana plantation (wow!!), the Mozambique wood art etc. Was nice to chat in Portuguese . And a great time in the local pub, Banana beer banana wine and "Maisha Marefu!" toast. 2 great experiences - learning Swahili with people all around happy to teach, chat, correct our mistakes patiently and kindly. The other - drinking Ginger Lemon Tea. You can add it to the schedule and highlights ("ask your guide about hot ginger tea ... but go slow very slow"... it is boiling).
Daily highlights were Maasai parades in Arusha and Manyara's Secret lodge. We are considering a late honeymoon there. It is more for romance, being taken care off by the locals, Maasai atmosphere and dancing, some adventure, the general conditions make it a bit less luxurious and less 'perfectly' equipped. A romantic getaway in nature for those who are into it. We certainly were. It is a place that was needed to change another in the last moment and it was an unexpected jewel.
We still had time for a short evening Manyara Safari, the herbivores seem the happiest there. Mogoose and lizards and wildness in the lodge. And much more with the lake extending directly from the tent, hippos close, an open air shower, all under the guardianship of the Maasai.
1 thing:
For those in dire need of cellular communication / wifi etc. - it is limited. If you need it badly then bring some sophisticated telecommunication stuff from home.
2nd - being kind to people can take you anywhere, get you almost everything. Being respectful to equipment is also important. Speaking Some Swahili helps. Willing to give too. I just felt like a part of Africa - great feeling. Saying it all in a good way. But it is far away so what's not there is not there (technologically I mean)
A real adventure
The lodge is probably very expensive? I would guess.
Day 6 began with treetop walkway. Happy we did it. We had a phenomenal guide in Alfeu, I bought a great shirt in the gift shop. The walk in itself is adventurous and safe, got to follow the laws and be patient. Alfeu taught us about the trees, birds, plants, butterflies, local life if asked. Such a special, kind, patient, graceful, educated charm of a young man. So with patience needed (esp. child who really wanted monkey actions) even if someone is getting bored quickly with the walk and the forest,( it actually can be quite scary for more sensitive folks). But we had the fun of being just us with Alfeu, the forest, wind, streams, monkeys. A nature luna park and circus but much much better. So after finally meeting one blue monkey, there were cute gangs of them. I have to apologize for missing to tip Alfeu, by mistake.
Then a day full of Manyara Safari, Baboons fighting, mating, sleeping, playing, nursing and all. An amazing leopard hiding on a branch. It was also fun to see the communication between the guides / drivers and the way they calmly and efficiently let everyone have a look. At the end of the day I knew most of the drivers. With Stanley's lead it was phenomenal till another splendid afternoon, evening and night at Manyara's secret with some Maasai surprises as well as excellent food.
Part 3 -
I'll try to highlight the most rellevant stuff. Getting to Ngorongoro is a beautiful experience in itself. Our guide Stanley did hid best to combine the self evident awsomeness of nature with local and national stories. We had lots of formal and informal encounters with the people of the Maasai, on the road, in the village, in the national parks, from informal short discussions were I got some Swahili and Maasai language and a glimpse into our brother's life (later on that). The formal tour in a Maasai village was worth the small effort and payment, it was a show but also a genuine welcome and exchange of life experiences. In 'our brother's' I mean lots of shared things in the Historical, Social and Spiritual lifes of Jews and Maasai. The serengheti better be left as a mystery, you want to know? Go there. Check out for yourself. 2 days, 9 days or more, animals are there, lions hunt eat and rest, you better be aware of Zebras, Giraffes and Elephants crossing the roads. But one can trust the guides, at least we could with Stanley and Relaxing reassuring , cordial and life experienced Daniel in Kenya. We were kind of teased about missing the migration but then it came, as advertised. Ngorongoro (the sound of bells on the goat's necks) is a natural treat as well is animals, eating lunch in the wild is great both in the Serengheti and across the border in the green Maasai mara. The great migrators, wildbeests, zebras, buffalo and others have their own pace and no formal borders. Being awake, eyes wide open and listening and you are inside a wonder of Animal life.
Just to say to sum up Safaris, now when we see a David Attenborough docu, wer'e in! We are inside and not just onlookers. I reccomend to do it at least once in life and let go. Just be a bit careful because you may be a different person after it. For life. The Serengeti House of Nature is very far, feels distant and out of this world. The people their are special and dedicated. Sometimes the electricity or the hot water get tired on their long way but with patience it does arrive.
There was some stress in our group surrounding the flights. A final journey with Stanley to an airstrip , which may be transferred while driving there , but somewhere somewhen a plane will be taking you. Thay allow 15 kilos per person and I think tourists should be advised at least to bring "soft bags", that is anything but a hardened suitcase. You have to pay overweight but it's not that serious with use of kindness, smiles, respect and patience. It's a small donations for this enormous task of preserving nature and its inhabitants (animals and people). Hope it stays and grows. So with a small plane, that can be used to get supply to refugees in Sudan wherever needed, some assistance too. I just hope it is not used for the wrong things.
So drive, plane, bus with a guide to the border, he helped us cross the border, pretty straightforward, with our guides assistance. Takes you from plane to plane. Inside and above the Serengheti/ Maasai Mara wildlife. I regretfully forgot the name of the very fine and reassuring human being that accompanied us in that short but significant portion of the journey across the border. The lady pilots were incredible. Flying from Serengeti to the border was great with a lady pilot and a co pilot. So was the Flying bus from the Kenyan side to the Maasai Mara when this group of tired 3 fell into the arms of Daniel, we just landed and nestled safely with him. The Maasai Mara is not unlike the Serengeti, but also completely different , the ambience being unique and many times the wildlife closer to the voyagers, in touching distance. Leopards, Hippo's, curious Lions and cubs, much more. And the elegant Impalas , Gazells and Antelope doing their share of hosting. The lodge was very high class in Mara, Zebra plain house. I am particular grateful to the cook Simon for preparing, by asking and then by his own initiative, especially suited dinners for our kid. We met some neighbours from our country and made a new friendship in the hugging confines of the lodge.
The Maasai mara cultural tour was great and there is a bank, money exchange and ATM in a nearby town. Bought some stuff in the Maasai village , great quality and the colors still shining after months. I miss them (the Maasai) now after being back to hectic daily lives, tv and social media rubbish.
Now a long drive to Navaisha lake (the 'rough water'). Thanks my spouse for the idea to go there and to our trip organizer from rough guide for organizing. Thanks for the lodge's staff and the guides for an unforgettable experience in the lake small boat safari (including getting fish and feeding eagles) , our young guide Daniel (I could have adopted him), our walking Safari guide MAJOR. We were grateful to receive lots of experiences, emotions, laughs and knowledge from them. Walking with the animals is just like it sounds. The lodge was probably top in any way yoo look at it. A happy place to be , sad for leaving. I met a former youth Kenyan athlete , we hung around talking about running and other things. Son ate the first steak of his life, spouses eyes were shining with life. I had my dream experience of spending some great time with a family of Hippos , Mom, calf (?) , a young one anyway, we had our imemorable encounter and it ended up good and safe enough for me to tell about it now. I did follow the safety laws as well as my intuition.
The day after another treat of a drive helping overcome the pain of saying goodbye, another steak and more glitter in her eyes in the Carnivor restaurant in Nairobi. I would stay for one of their parties. Then a city tour with Daniel who took care to guide us through time and space to wander and wonder as much as possible just on time and safely to the airport.
Asante sana, Kwaheri and
Mpaka wakati ujao- 'till next time'
P.s. there was also the olduvai gorge peek into archeology place. Wish I had a whole day there. There are nearby rivers to wash at and some local teens were bathing naturally there. Lizards were taking care of their young ones and each other, i guess, one should see for himself. Anyway the olduvai gorge needs to be a part of the journey for those interested in hominid prehistory.
65+ years of age | Experience level: first safari
Absolutely Incredible ❗️❗️❗️ The Best Trip Ever ❗️❗️
My wife and I; along with five other family members and two friends just experiences the most amazing and incredible journey of our life. Our group of nine included; four, 45-50; one mid 60's; and four, mid 70s to early 80s. As a group, we are very experienced travelers with averaging having visited over 40 countries each; some over 70. Four members have visited all seven continents and another four, six. I felt that I needed to lay this foundation for my review.
Each of us felt that this was the most incredible experience of our lives. Tapestry of Africa provided us an unbelievable, life changing experience. Their organization and communications with us was exceptional. Hilda provided support to us at all times and made us feel so special. Since there were nine in our group, they provided two vehicles with fantastic guide/driver. In Kenya, we had George and Vincent; in Tanzania, Yuda and Tanzanian Vincent. These guides were not just doing a job of guiding us in the National Parks and Conservations Areas. They were on a mission to share a lifetime of experience with us and to change our perspective on nature, wildlife, and conservation; they succeeded. We all have a greater appreciation for the experience we had and know that we have to help ensure these parks and conservation areas are available to future generations.
What can I say about the lodge accommodations, they were top notch and spectacular; the food delicious; but most importantly, the people were so friendly and sharing of their culture and the heritage are striving to protecting.
Our safari was planned as 11 days, five nights in three different national parks in Kenya and the same in Tanzania. Our group arrived a day early in Nairobi and Tapestry organized a day tour around Nairobi which included the Nairobi National Park; a visit to the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust which is world famous for their work with orphaned elephants and rhinos. We saw the feeding time for over 20 baby elephants, the one baby rhino and a lone baby zebra and we got to fed giraffes at the giraffe center.
We spent the last two nights of the safari at Tortillas Camp in Amboseli National Park. This was a beautiful spot to end our incredible voyage of discovery. There is a perimeter fence and guards to ensure our safety but which allows us to roam the camp grounds and enjoy the natural beauty. I highly recommend adding another day there before returning to Nairobi.
Lastly, I want to thank the Matt and Albert who were always available to assist and answer questions.
35-50 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Reliable
Me and my family used wildmist adventures for our tour to Queen Elizabeth national park and everything was top notch. The guide was very versed with the park and where we could find the animals. We were able to see lions, buffaloes, hippos, Uganda kobs, elephants and many more. The boat cruise on kazinga channel was good and we were able to see crocodiles, so many groups of hippos and birds. The kids were very excited to see so many animals in their natural habitants. The driver was always on time, fluent in communication, the vehicle was so clean and comfortable. I highly recommend them and you will get the value for your money and unforgettable experience
DE
20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Anytime again!
Great safari! If we could give more stars we would. Everything was as discussed. The communication in advance was totally easy and fast. The organisation was as discussed and can be flexibly co-designed. We had Exaud as a driver, who has been doing the whole thing for 11 years and therefore recognised the national parks very well. Without a navi, he not only drove us to every lodge, but also showed us the Big 5. Our guide was Zuberi. He spoke German and explained to us a lot about the culture and the animals. Both were super friendly and professional. Anytime again!
FR
20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Very reactive
It’s hard to find the words, as this experience far exceeded all my expectations. This safari in Tanzania will remain forever etched in my memory. From the very beginning, everything was perfectly organized by Ozon Light, but what truly made this trip exceptional was our guide, Elijah.
Over these four timeless days, he shared his passion with incredible energy, constant kindness, and impressive professionalism, making every moment even more enriching.
Thanks to him, we were lucky enough to witness absolutely incredible wildlife. You could truly feel his desire to give us the best safari possible—and he more than succeeded.
If you’re looking for an authentic, immersive, and unforgettable safari, I can only recommend Ozon Light. And I hope you’re lucky enough to have Elijah as your guide. A huge thank you to Ozon, and especially to Elijah, who turned this journey into an absolutely unforgettable memory
under20 years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
What an amazing day!
Wow! Shafino wildlife Safaris were amazing. Our guides were brilliant, telling us stories and details along the way about baobab trees, zebras, wilderbeast, termites, lions and much more. Giving us insights into the lives of the animals. The service that they provided was exceptional making our day and planning smooth, providing delicious hot lunch and going above and beyond to make our experience memorable! The guides knew all of the best spots allowing us to be less than 2 metres away from sleeping lions, amongst the middle of a herd of elephants and obtain close sighting of hyenas playing in the water. I could not have asked for a better experience. Would definitely recommend for anyone wanting to have a stand out safari!
CN
50-65 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Follow Kush and gain all you want in safari!
Kush is the BEST safari guide in Kenya! His animal spotting skills are unbelievable – we saw five leopards and two cheetahs in four days! He's also an expert driver, navigating the rough roads with ease. He's incredibly dedicated, always going the extra mile to find us the best wildlife sightings. He's super attentive, constantly observing, communicating, and ensuring we departed the hotel earliest and returned latest. Plus, he's a knowledgeable professional who can customize your itinerary and a passionate environmentalist. Book Kush for an unforgettable safari!
FR
20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Fantastic
We loved our stay with Régie! We were able to visit three different parks: Tarangire, Lake Manyara, and the Ngorongoro Crater.
We experienced magical, timeless moments!
Régie was very involved in tracking the animals and was just as excited as we were.
We enjoyed his company; he is truly a very kind person, and we highly recommend him.
You won’t be disappointed.
Thank you again for everything, my friend!
50-65 years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
Specific Honest and Friendly
"We had such a splendid experience with Wildmist our guide Bruce, was incredibly knowledgeable and made the history of Uganda come alive. Everything was so well-planned from the comfortable transportation to the fantastic local restaurants they selected. The pace was perfect, allowing us to see a lot without feeling rushed. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a seamless, enriching trip in uganda.