DK
20-35 years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
Amazing tour that exceeded our expectations
We had a 12 hour layover in Nairobi and decided to make the most of it. Initially, we had “just” planned to go to bomas of Kenya, the giraffe center and Karen Blixen museum, but when we landed we found out that the national park next to the airport had Rhinos, which we had yet to see. So, with a very tight schedule, Alex got us through our initial tours in time to have a couple of hours in the national park, and it was magical.
65+ years of age | Experience level: first safari
Amazing Times in Africa
Our safari started in Victoria Falls when Musa picked us up and introduced himself as our tour guide and driver. Musa was amazing and I can't speak highly enough of his knowledge, care of us and his sense of humour. Having our own personal guide and being able to negotiate our activities was wonderful, albeit we took part in all the activities he had planned anyway. However, when we needed to purchase something he always took us safely to the best place. Our trips in the car between lodges and hotels was so informative as he had a wealth of knowledge about Zimbabwe, the people and also was knowledgeable about other African countries.
The animal safaris in Chobe and Hwange were everything we had imagined and more. Our accommodation was comfortable and varied, ranging from lodges to a safari tent. The food offered at all places was simple, but delicious.
The activities planned outside of safari rides were enjoyable and informative - Dinner cruise on the Zambesi River, afternoon cruise on the Chobe River, visiting the Painted Dogs Information Centre, Elephant Shopping Area, Victoria Falls and visiting a subsistence farm.
Africa Uncovered are to be congratulated for providing such a great experience.
IN
50-65 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Excellent.
Enjoyed safari too much with co tourist. Johney is such a nice person , best guide and best driver too. Tent service was fine but tent is so so. Thank you johney and jocky.
NL
20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Perfect safari to see the big 5!
A perfect safari to see the big 5 and the beautiful nature of Kenya. The driver Johny was really nice and always get the best spots! I recommend this company!
20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
BEST TRIP EVER!!! Must do. Mazingira Safari were amazing!
BEST TRIP EVER!!! Must do. Mazingira Safari were amazing!
Booking
At first I was apprehensive booking this. I think in the UK people have learned to be very cautious when paying for things but you simply have to go for it with this. Johari was our contact and from the outset she was brilliant. WhatsApp was the most effective tool for of communication and she was so straight forward and accommodating for our requirements. I had no idea how safaris worked before this but essentially you tell them which parks and areas you want to see and then they book your accommodation along the way and sort all of the transfers to and from the airports. It is all taken care of! It is a slick operation and the majority of arrivals are doing the exact same process as you.
Arrival
You need to sort a visa for Tanzania and that is something you should sort yourself beforehand. Also be sure to sort out the necessary jabs. After a long flight, we arrived into Kilimanjaro and were warmly greeted by our safari guide Tom Ayo (he was the best!) He took our bags to the vehicle and instantly made us feel at home by giving us water bottles with our names printed on. He introduced himself properly and explained the route.
Briefing
On our way to Arusha (our first hotel) we drove through some areas of Tanzania which at first can be an overwhelming cultural adjustment. It was amazing to see the local people and the villages in which they live. Driving through these places was an important part of my experience because it gave us a real sense of real Tanzania. Our safari guide Tom took us to the briefing where Johari who we had been communicating from the outset with, met us and gave us a bottle of wine as a congratulations on our honeymoon. She explained about the tipping culture (bring US Dollars in small denominations) in Tanzania and the expectations at each hotel and park. After a relaxing coffee, we were away on our trip.
Safari Guide
Tom Ayo was amazing! He was knowledgable, warm and friendly. Each day he went above and beyond to make sure we saw all of the animals. His day was full of driving cleaning the car and preparing our packed lunches so he was often up very early. We got to know him very well and listening to his own story was also a highlight of the trip. He will always been in our hearts for how well he looked after us.
Safari Parks
Wow! I did not expect to be this blown away. I thought we might see a few animals at a distance but we regularly encountered our favourite animals up close! The roof off and right next to them. You don’t think it will be, but it is an addictive and moving experience.
Accommodation
Mazingira arranged our hotels along the route and we stayed in a lot of Serena chain hotels. They were superb! Great food, nice rooms and brilliant staff. Not for everyone, but one night we stayed in a camp and for me it was the most incredible experience. Wild buffalo were in the camp in the night and you could hear them chewing the grass outside until they suddenly cleared. The camps are like posh camping. Proper tents and proper beds. The staff put hot water bottles in our tents as well because the mornings/nights of Safari can be quite cold.
Gifts
Mazingira went the extra mile with our trip. They knew it was special for us (first Safari/honeymoon) and on the way to the airport Tom, our guide, picked up a special present for us. We had sent him a picture of us from the Serengeti on WhatsApp. Without telling us, as a surprise he had it printed and framed by a friend. It was so kind and very special for us.
All in all, this was the trip of a lifetime. Safari can be long days and tiring and a financial decision to make but the pay off is well worth it. The memories will stay with us forever. Thank you Mazingira, Johari and Tom, from Hannah & Jake x
Smooth and efficient service!
Very easy to book and make date changes to one of our bookings. Their service is fantastic. Very reliable and I felt safe while on the road the entire time. Their drivers are very experienced and friendly. Would 100% take again!
US
20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Professional
Amazing service and experience. Very professional and punctual. How our safari was described to us 3 months before we went is exactly what we experienced. Safari vehicle was clean, comfortable, and relatively new. Highly recommend booking with Kevic!
ME
35-50 years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
Incredible Trip
We had an amazing time on our short, yet exciting safari. We have to appreciate Rama for organizing such a flawless trip. We camped, boated and also did game drives on different parts of the park. On the last day we went to Rufiji River Camp which was a touch of magic from their excellent service.
The overall experience in Selous was absolutely stunning. Numerous wildlife encounters, some from the boat and also during the drives. The serenity and beauty of the parks is unparalleled.
I have to come back someday for a longer trip.
IT
20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Best Safari Experience ever
Our experience was extremely positive.
We found Big Cats online and we trust them from the beginning thanks to their extreme availability and kindness.
The guys are always nice and replies are very quick and they can support you with any custom request you might need.
Our guide, Ernest, was a plus. He has 23 years experience and he perfectly knows animals (especially Big Five) and their habits.
We will surely suggest Big Cats to our friends!
US
65+ years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
Mindreader
Two 70 something widows wanted adventure, comfort and security, plentiful and up close game sightings, pleasant weather, no bugs, gourmet food, luxe accommodations in an intimate setting and memories for a lifetime. Not much to ask of a safari in South Africa, hmmm? Well, Antoinette at Discover Africa delivered! Fabulous experience in every way! Already booking again for next year…Stop dreaming about it, ladies, just GO!!!!
