IN
65+ years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
Good value for money
Pros: Very good value for money
Courteous service Very prompt communication
Resort arrangements were good.
Cons: Not Very tuned to birding or photography.
Felt they should have handled the Masai village visit better since we lost nearly two hours of safari time.
Guides & porters were incredible
We climbed Kilimanjaro via the Lemosho route and it was hands down one of the toughest things I’ve ever done — particularly summit day. A long, cold, relentless slog, but such an unforgettable experience.
Our guides — Johnnie, Temba, Conrad, Victor and Bonnie, were absolutely incredible. When I developed acute mountain sickness, they were calm and so supportive. They monitored me closely and helped me push through safely. I felt genuinely cared for the entire time.
The porters were also amazing. Their strength, kindness and constant encouragement made the whole trek possible. So much respect for the work they do.
Richard was very responsive on WhatsApp while organising the trip, which made the planning process straightforward.
Kilimanjaro is no joke, but with the right mountain crew beside you, it’s an experience you’ll never forget.
NL
50-65 years of age | Experience level: over 5 safaris
Extraordinary experience
It was easy to correspond with Big Apes Africa. It was a well organised and they have given answers to all our questions, with a lot of patience. The trip was well prepared, with all the handy tips Big Apes had given us before departure. We have visited one big apes family and it was a once in a lifetime experience.
TW
20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
A multi language learning warrior
This safari was not just about seeing animals, but about understanding the land, the distance, and the effort behind the journey. The long drives and changing landscapes reminded me how vast and diverse this region truly is. While the cost felt high compared to our personal income, the reality of the travel conditions made it clear that organizing such a trip requires significant work and responsibility.
Our guide, Ombene, played an important role in shaping the experience. He drove patiently for many hours, navigated difficult roads with confidence, and remained calm and positive throughout. As a Maasai Murani, he carried a strong sense of pride in his culture and shared a warm energy with the group, especially during moments when everyone gathered to relax and connect.
I am not completely sure if the guide’s salary is included in the tour fee, but offering a tip felt like a meaningful way to recognize his dedication.
What stayed with me most were the gradual transitions of scenery, from open plains to wildlife-filled landscapes, and the quiet moments of observing animals in their natural environment. These experiences created a deeper connection to the place beyond simple sightseeing.
For travelers who appreciate slow journeys, cultural encounters, and immersive experiences rather than rushed schedules, this safari is worth considering. It takes effort, but the rewards come in moments of understanding and reflection.
50-65 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Knowledgeable, friendly, accommodating, felt safe and looked after.
Our guide picked us up from our hotel and drove us to the destinations and returned us to our next hotel. Everything was organised, and well. One of our accommodations was not available due to local conditions and we got an upgrade. At hells gate a local guide led and another on the lake, they also had good knowledge. The main safari itself was excellent, we saw so many different animals, including lions, cheetah and a servile. Plus so many more. Each day was more incredible than the last. The food and water was all provided and was good and freshly cooked. Very good value for money.
Only one minor criticism, I did not know there would be people selling things in some of the places and was caught out with out having money on me, or how to say no. As some were very insistent.
IT
20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Reliable and very efficient
I really appreciated the experience and the service offered by the company and most importantly by our super helpful and amazing driver John Mwangi! I would recommend it
BE
20-35 years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
Value for money
Amos and his team are a flexible and correct. Their strong point is that they have an own hotel in Moshi “The Better in”. From there, they coordinate all their expeditions or guides tours. The price they ask is one of the lowest I could find and for the service you get, I don’t think you can find better. You get everything you need based on your condition and the group. They adapt easily to their clients. Knowledge of English is sufficient and I had personally a great time doing the Lemosho 6 days route.
65+ years of age | Experience level: first safari
Very varied interesting country.
We visited Namibia, Cape Town and Port Elizabeth. Each place was so different, large sand dunes and salt lakes in Namibia, farming of apple orchards and vineyards in Cape Town with lovely German architecture in town. We went on a safari in Cape Town and Port Elizabeth and saw all the animals in their natural habitat. The lodges are beautiful and everyone was very friendly.
FR
20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Perfect !
Perfect safari! Our guide, Newton, was warm and friendly, and he guided us well. He showed us lots of animals and shared many interesting stories! The best guide we could have hoped for!
He was very attentive and helpful with any problems we encountered. The hotels were good, but be aware that they weren't always the same as those listed in the itinerary.
David accompanied us to Amboseli and gave us lots of information about the animals. He also took his time for observation and photography. David is punctual !
HK
I thought I was going to the game drive with my rigid dad.
The girls from Simbaland were kind and funny. Maria was the one who took care of the schedule of our trip and she has done her job well. On the first day of our arrival, Prisca, Heavenlike and Maria went to our hotel and briefed us the route of our 7-day safari tour. Our drinks during the game drive have been taken care of, which are bottled water and Safari beer. Obtions of red wine/white wine were also provided. The car was a bit old and untidy, but it was comfortable enough with cushion on the seats. Along the trip, all the camps/lodges were booked with correct dates and I was surprised by the cleaningness of the camps. No insects were in, we have lots of good night sleeps.
For the game drive, our driver Penda is professional with years of experience. We have seen most of the animals during the first 3 days. He was willing to switch on the driver radio and receive messages about where to find the animals. When arrived to the spot with the animal such as lion, he was willing to move the car for us to take the best picture. We also had the chance to get out of the car and walked around when the car broke down. He also did a bit improvement of the car such as fixing the door handle. The whole trip would be nicer if he could show us better attitude. At first I thought it was cultural difference and language barrier that he was not smiling at all and left the table without saying goodbye after we shared the meal everyday. He was also impatient when I asked him to recommend the starting time of the game drive, 'Just tell me what time we leave.' But then, I saw other drivers treat their tourist nicely, that made me feel a bit sad. Still, I think he tried his best, its just personality I hope. And, we saw most of the animals and that was rely on him.
With all in count, I would still recommend Simbaland Magic Tours.