FR
Overtourism and disrespect for nature
I join Theo to say that as wildlife conservationist, we wanted to experience our first ever Safari and what better place than the Massai Mara ?
we decided to trust the good reviews this Tour Operator has and booked a 6 days safari through the Mara, Nakuru and Amboseli.
That was a mistake.
I don't know how is it possible that so many people are blindfold about what is going on in Mara but Jocky Tour is definitly part of the problem. I never seen so much unethical behavior to satisfy clients on a game drive. It was not just our guide, it was all of them. Jocky Tour is responsible because it pushes those kind of behavior, to satisfy their clients, to have a cool selfie and when I confronted them about it they had nothing to say anymore. We were next to a lioness with 2 cubs, hiding in bush, the car was at less than 2 METERS away, stressing them, phones ringing, two guides from two different companies talking to each other loudly. It was 50 plus cars in front of a lioness with a kill, she didn't know what to do anymore. 50 plus cars again cercling a scared leopard in a bush to get a photo. Loud engines, people talking loudly, cars trying to get in front of one another for their guests to have a better view, it was pure chaos. When I confronted our guide about it, he told me that he'll try to stay discret and keep a safe distance from the animals. But nontheless, one poor cheetah with 40 plus cars around latter during the day was the nail in the coffin for us. All those tour operators are killing the Mara, one of the last wild jewel of Africa, all that for short term profit and to satisfy clients that think it's a zoo. It changes animal behavior and causing so much damage on the land to have so much vehicules with no regulations!
Studies shows that cheetah to have less cubs in the Mara because of the stress caused by all this. Lionesses loose kills, buffalos can't escape anymore, blocked by army of people and let's not talk about the great migration... There is countless and coutless exemple of thoses abuses.
Also, the program was not followed, as we should have had a full day in the Mara but insead it was cut short ta have the optional visit of a Massai village. Which is also a big joke as it doesn't look authentic at all, it is more of a show for tourists.
PLEASE, if you read this, make sure your tour operator is not some kind of money profit, selfish organisation like Jocky Tour that doesn't think about the environnement and the damage it causes. Make sure they are ethical and that their guides are well trained and aware about animals safety. I understand that everybody doesn't have the money for the private experience which is our case at the moment. But we still left the safari at the end of the first day. Even if we're not getting our money back because we didn't finish it (and I don't mind paying the parc fees), we don't want to be involve and witness something like this EVER again. So save a little more money but make sure you go there to respect the place and enjoyed it for it's true value, to keep it as wild as possible.
CN
20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Like a magic lamp that turned our Safari dreams into reality
West Wild made our Tanzania Safari truly unforgettable! Communication was smooth, every detail well arranged, and our guide Temba was simply amazing. During our trip, they even surprised us with a cake to celebrate the Chinese Mid-Autumn Festival — such a thoughtful touch! We felt like Aladdin, with West Wild as our magic lamp and Temba the genie who made all our Safari wishes come true.
DE
20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
A magical experience with a wonderful team — I’d book it again anytime!
It was a wonderful experience, we had the perfect guide Ombeni Mamuya, full of knowledge.
Thanks to him, we were able to see the Big Five, and we got along with him really well.
We were also surprised that, in addition to English, he speaks German and French too.
It was a truly unique memory.
The balloon ride was amazing as well!
A big thank-you to Evaline and the whole team who always took such good care of us, they were all such warm-hearted people. I would book with Mountain Warrior again anytime.
ES
50-65 years of age | Experience level: first safari
The service was superb
We had a great experience. They were formal and professional as well as accesible.
CA
35-50 years of age | Experience level: first safari
The GOAT
Ismail was the best driver and tour guide. He was knowledgeable, patient and friendly.
We were able to see the big 5 game by following his advise. Great work and thank you for leaving the group satisfied.
NL
20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Quality services at best.
After my sister getting married we were invited with 11 people of our family to see the Serengeti national park and it was an experience we will never forget. By far it was the most beautifull vacation ever. Everything was really good taken care of. This company is very professional and always hear your needs & preferences. We saw in our first a lot or beautifull animals such as lions, cheeta’s capture their prey, lioness with 7 cups, 18 lioness in one place and leopards. Actually all the animals in the Serengeti except one not, maybe a reason to come back. As my sister and brother in law are here for the second time already with the same travel agents.
The unique experience which i was fondly of was at night time when me and my wife were in our nice cosy and romantic tents we could here sound of animals, since we were in the middle of the savanna an experience of a lifetime.
NL
20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Great safari
We had so a great time with the family and the safari was amazing. We saw so many things
For example 20 lions at the time. 3 cheeta's hunting and a female lion with baby lions.
Outstanding!
I was a solo female traveler doing 2 safaris: one in Tanzania and one in Uganda. Adam organized my pickup to and from the hotel before and after the safaris. I had mentioned to Adam that I hoped to see Shoebill Storks when I was in Uganda, so he made a slight change on my itinerary so I was able to experience the shoebills. Both safaris were phenomenal. Adam, Walton and Peter were all superb guides. The safaris were not just about seeing animals, it was the experience of being in their homes as well as the interaction with the guides and the other travelers. Saw the big 5 and so much more. Learned about the symbiotic relationships between zebras and the wildebeest as well as birds with other animals. The camp sites were clean and safe. Advise to do the tour through Arusha. Learned so much about the city and its people. I was able to purchase lots of different fresh spices at the central market.
I highly recommend Afrozone Kingdom Safari.
ES
20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Well-organized safari trip by a great company
*Booking*
We were looking for a safari company in Kenya for our honeymoon, and Splendid Vacations Africa offered us the most complete and detailed proposal. Maryann Lucky assisted us with great patience, helping us choose the best hotels and advising us on the most suitable itinerary.
Our route, starting from Nairobi:
- Amboseli (2 nights)
- Naivasha (1 night)
- Crescent Island → Nakuru (1 night)
- Masai Mara (3 nights)
*Payment*
The payment was made online in advance via Pesapal, with no extra fees, which was very convenient for us. Maryann promptly provided a receipt, and we didn’t need to present any documentation at the camps or lodges.
*Vehicle*
We chose the private 4x4 Land Cruiser option. The vehicle was in good condition and very comfortable throughout the safari. It was thoroughly cleaned twice during the trip, which we appreciated.
*Guide*
We requested a Spanish-speaking guide for our comfort, and that was arranged. Alex Masila, our assigned guide, had over 10 years of experience and navigated the parks with confidence. He also had good connections with other guides, which was helpful during wildlife sightings.
However, we felt that his attitude was rude at times. While we managed to see the Big Five and benefited from his expertise, he scheduled shorter safari times than other couples we met, which was a bit disappointing. This aspect kept our experience from being truly 5-star.
CN
20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
It's a unforgettable journey.
The safari guide Lucas is very professional. The accommodation is highly praised. The customer service is always online and responds quickly, capable of solving all kinds of problems, making guests feel at ease and reassured.
