50-65 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Masai Mara, Nakuru, Naivasha, Hell's Gate. Thanks for the wonderful lifetime memories!
This is a long review, because I wanted to include all the sorts of things I wish I could have read in my research. My husband, our 9yo daughter, and I just came back from Kenya on what was probably our only opportunity to visit Africa. We had to attend a conference, so we decided to extend our time by a week and invest in a safari. Once I started researching the possibilities, I wished we could stay much longer and had no end of money as there is so much to see and do! Being realistic about our time and budget, though, I realised we needed to stay within the ‘standard’ safari itineraries, and choose a tour company that would work with us to plan a budget private family safari that fit our needs. I wanted us to see and experience as broad a range of ecosystems and landforms as we could fit in, to have an opportunity to see the iconic African big game animals, and also to visit the coast to see for ourselves some of Africa’s long history of trade and commerce. Plus, I have a special interest in birds, so wanted to see plenty of them as well. I narrowed it down to visiting the Masai Mara, three locations in the Rift Valley not too far from Nairobi: Nakuru (soda lake), Naivasha (freshwater lake), Hell’s Gate National Park (volcanic area and gorge near Naivasha), and to go by train to Mombasa on the coast, getting views of Tsavo NP on the way.
Once I had a fair idea of what I wanted, I requested quotes and received replies from 4 different operators. Misaro from Daylight Adventures & Safaris replied promptly and warmly with a detailed initial proposal that showed attention to all the information I had already given. She was patient while we considered our options, answered my questions quickly and thoughtfully (eg, was it realistic to think we could get from the SGR train to the airport in the timeframe we had to catch our flight – she assured us it was, and it turned out just as she said). She offered to book our SGR train tickets (must be paid via the local Mpesa system, so we couldn’t make that booking ourselves before we got there) and arrange a driver to transfer us to the airport, thus taking the stress out of that crucial final little piece. It was Misaro’s kindness, thoughtfulness, and attention to the details that mattered to us that swayed us to make our booking with Daylight. That showed when we met the team too – they gave us a new water bottle and safari hat each, and even a warm hoodie for our daughter! Good thing they have a nice logo…
We chose to go in a safari minivan with ‘pop-top’ roof. I think the Land Rover ‘troopy’ style vehicle would be a little more comfortable, having a bit more clearance on the rough and bumpy roads, but the van was significantly cheaper and Misaro explained that it uses less fuel. It did the job, but our driver James admitted he prefers driving the troopy. I also think that more than 5 passengers in any kind of safari vehicle would be pretty cramped; I’m glad we three had a whole van to ourselves. James was a very good driver both on the highways and the rough roads and tracks (impressed my husband).
We were very happy with the range of wildlife we saw on our safari: giraffe, zebra, wildebeest, rhinos, lions, elephant (including a baby that looked only a week or two old), hyena, jackals, ostrich, vultures, hippo, buffalo, impala, Thompson’s gazelle, crocodiles, mongoose, and my daughter’s favourite, rock hyrax. The list could go on. We didn’t get to see many predators feeding, but it was incredible to watch a lone lioness in the Mara starting out on a solo hunt targeting some warthogs. Sadly we couldn’t stay to see the final outcome, but witnessing her stealth as she disappeared into the long grass and then only showed two more glimpses over the next hour as she stalked up a small gully towards her prey gave an appreciation for her patience and focus that can’t be gained from watching even the best TV wildlife doco. Other highlights for us were the waterbirds at the two lakes, including the gorgeous flamingos and pelicans by the thousand at Lake Nakuru. The boat ride on Lake Naivasha was quite magical: many kingfishers, fish eagles, hamerkop, seeing (and hearing) adolescent hippos play-fighting not far from our boat. The guide we had for our walking safari that day was excellent, with heaps of fascinating information about every species we came across. For example, did you know that co-parenting is common among giraffes? Apparently females in a group co-operate to feed the babies. That way, if anything happens to a mother, her orphaned baby will be adopted and cared for by another female. Riding bikes and walking at Hell’s Gate was really lovely with the steep rocky cliffs and volcanic features – wish we’d had more time there. And just driving through Kenya and observing the towns, villages and people going about their daily lives was interesting in itself. The many herders watching over and protecting their sheep, goats, cattle, and donkeys gave an insight into what life must have been like in Biblical times.
We thought the accommodations Daylight organised for us were really good given we opted for a budget rather than luxury package. Everything was clean, staff were friendly and helpful, meals were plentiful and good, there was hot water for showers. Toilets often didn’t flush particularly well, though. We were only offered 500ml bottled water for drinking, so we ended up with a lot of waste plastic. It would have been nice to have a 20L bottle in the van so we could make good use of our new stainless steel water bottles by refilling them. BTW, if you can’t live without good coffee, consider taking your own supply and maybe an air press or something. Hot water (and hot milk) for drinks is always available at the lodgings. And with early starts and lunch often quite late due to long road transfers or game drives, it would be worth taking a stash of your own snacks if you can’t make it past 11 o’clock without something to munch on.
Near the Masai Mara we stayed at a tourist camp where it was fun to sleep in a canvas tent for two nights. On the first afternoon we visited the nearby Maasai village and local school. That was interesting and informative, but felt a bit intrusive and ‘touristy’ for our liking. One felt obliged to purchase some souvenirs and make a donation to the school. But it was the only way to see anything outside the fence of our accommodation – for safety reasons we were strongly discouraged from wandering anywhere on our own. Another slight negative vibe was the souvenir sellers at the entrance gate to the Masai Mara reserve – they were persistent to the point of being quite uncomfortable and annoying. It is worth knowing that a tip to the various site-specific guides is expected, and being prepared for that. Examples include the armed guides at the Mara bridge/hippo pools, the Maasai guide for the village tour, and the walking safari guides at Naivasha and Hell’s Gate.
Overall we were very satisfied with the experience and service provided by Daylight Adventures & Safaris. They were very friendly and easy to work with, and worked hard to accommodate our wishes within a reasonable budget. Many of the expenses are fairly fixed – park fees, fuel, etc – so the price variation comes mainly from the choice of vehicle and the standard of accommodation. As long as you don’t expect absolute top-of-the-range everything for bottom-of-the-barrel prices, you should have a great experience planning and going on safari with them. We did. Thanks, Daylight team!
MX
50-65 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Reliable and with broad knowledge, flexible to organize your taylor-made tour.
We had our honey moon trip arranged by Inno Africa: 8 day safari in Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Lake Manyara and Tarangire. Our experience could have not been better. We booked a mid range tour and most of the hotels we stayed in were top notch. Def worth the cost as we got more comfort than expected. We chose Inno, first of all, for the service while quoting and arranging our trip. While others send you standard emails and answers, he took a moment to listen our needs and customize his standard options according to our requirements. We requested at least 10 quotes to different operators and Inno offered the most convenient proposal.
We were lucky enough to have a private tour despite we had not booked it, and it was a pleasure. Inno and his guide Saidi were always paying attention to detail.
Something to improve could be day by day information to travellers on the current plans, refredhing what the activities will be as sometimes they change on short notice due to climate, roads or unexpected situations. It is key that customers are always informed of any changes.
Drinks provided during the tour. Lunch boxes were ok and all tour operators offer the same but they could be better and more varied.
The car was in excellent conditions and super comfortable. The guide has broad knowledge of the parks and has good info on where to see the animals. He also took us to some extra activities in the villages as we had special interest in local life. This was def a priceless add on. We strongly recommend Saidi as a guide for his English level, knowledge on nature and roads. Driving skills and specially for the passion he has for animals and for his job.
All what we were promised while booking was delivered. Our first encounter with Africa could have not been better.
Sensational Suricata Safari!
A trip if a lifetime!
The whole tour from start to finish was exceptional! We took the upgraded package which was well worth the money. Every lodge was absolutely beautiful!
Suricata Boma Lodge was very welcoming and the pool overlooking Lake Manyara was breathtaking and a welcome stop after a dusty day.
The second accommodation at Serengeti Angata Camp was glamming in a beautifully appointed tent. We had the excitement of having wild animals around our room. I even saw a lion and a hippopotamus! The food was the best I’d eaten over our whole African experience.
Ngorongoro Safari Lodge was our next stop. Again an amazing tent on stilts with wild animals roaming. I had a breathtaking encounter with a Zebra and her baby here!
Fredrick was our tour guide and Tito was our cook. Fred’s knowledge of the environment and animal behaviour was second to none! His knowledge and instincts ensured we were always in the best place at the right time. Plus he’s a super nice guy to hang out with!
Tito was the cook behind the scene keeping us well fed. He provided freshly cooked meals every day and lunch always had a table cloth, silverware and plates unlike every other tours that had box lunches. AMAZING!!
Most of all, Tanzania is beyond belief and at times I had to hold back tears! It’s the Lion King movie on steroids! 😆
You have to go and if you’re going book with Suricata! You won’t be disappointed as the whole company is very professional and is a stand out amongst all 2700 tour companies!
Thank you for everything, we will never forget Africa and it’s beautiful people. Asante Sana ❤️
50-65 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Suricata is best of the best for safari
Suricata tours took us on an amazing tour of Tanzania! We started at Tarangire National Park, followed by an exceptional stay at Suricata Boma Resort Lodge. The park showed us elephants, lions and giraffe up close. The lodge was magnificent in design and staff support. The view from the pool was exceptional. We enjoyed a drink from the bar while mesmerised by the scenery. We drove to Serengeti Angata Camp in the center of the Serengeti plain. We passed Ngorongoro Crater along the way with its breathtaking view. Serengeti is so stunning! We saw lions, tens of thousands of Zebra and Wildebeest. It was truly an unforgettable sight. The Camp provided a large tent with shower and toilet. The meals were excellent! There was a hippo feeding in our camp at night. That was thrilling. Cruising through the Serengeti plain led us to large herds of animals. We found a group of about 10 lions early in the morning. Ngorongoro Crater was like visiting heaven on Earth. Here we saw a rhino, elephants, lions, wildebeest, impala, ostriches, snd flamingo all living in a peaceful existence. Ngorongoro Safari Camp provided luxurious accommodation on stilts to aid in seeing the lake. The stars at night were spectacular. The food was excellent and staff so helpful. We even had zebras just outside our cabin. Visiting the Lake Manaya National Park gave us views of elephants a metre from our vehicle. The whole trip was like visiting a whole new planet! I highly encourage anyone that can find a way to make this trip. It opens your eyes and gives you perspective for all of life. Suricata tours stands above the competition with fresh cooked meals for lunch, exceptional lodging and highly experienced staff in pristine locations. Our guide, Freddie, was the happiest, most knowledgeable, safety focused guy. Just do it! Jambo.
DE
20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Very good and always a quick response
We did the 5-day tour to Serengeti, Ngorongoro and Tarangire NP.
The booking went very nice and we got a lot of recommendations regarding the perfect places for the season.
Everything was well organized, all the pick ups and drop offs went smoothly. We could always contact Fransisca and she would respond very quickly.
The hotels we stayed in were good (especially in Ngorongoro and Lake Manyara).
We saw a lot of animals, especially in the Ngorongoro crater - that was the place we enjoyed the most and would definitely recommend.
CN
Morningstar is a trustworthy travel&safari agency.
We had an 8D7N tour by Morningstar, and it was a wonderful and memorable experience.
I revised the itinerary several times, but Kendi was always patient. Our driver Alex, he is very enthusiastic and professional as well. Morningstar is a trustworthy travel&safari agency.
50-65 years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
Perfect safari experience
Albert's organization was impressive and helpful, from helping me with the visa process down to accommodating our last-minute request for an itinerary change for the last day. Emanuel and Fadhili were a top-notch team on the road as bird and wildlife guides, as well as keeping everything running smoothly for 5 very packed days! The hotels and camps were very well selected for comfort and professional service. It couldn't have gone better.
PL
50-65 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Wonderful, amazing trip
Wonderful, breathtaking trip
Jan 2024 • Friends
We have had the pleasure of working closely with Ayub for 9 days on the safari tours, and his expertise as a driver has never failed to impress. He navigates through challenging landscapes with ease, always prioritizing the welfare of our clients and respecting the natural environment. Ayub's passion for wildlife conservation shines through in his engaging narratives during the drives, enriching the overall experience for our guests. He consistently ensures the safety and comfort of our guests while providing insightful commentary on the flora and fauna of the region. Ayub's professionalism, punctuality, and dedication make him an invaluable asset to any safari team. Ayub is a very open person with whom you can joke, which makes the atmosphere on safari perfect. He adapts to the client's requests and performs his work with great commitment. He always tries to get close to the animals so that you can see them very closely but at the same time not scare them. Safari with Ayub is the best possible choice.
Our entire Safari was planned in very comfortable and atmospheric hotels at a very decent price. This is a company that is definitely ahead of large corporations and wins with an individual approach to the client and passion. If you want your holiday to go smoothly and be full of positive emotions and relaxation, definitely go on this trip with Ayub and his company. It is a young company, but it has very experienced staff (over 10 years of work on the market), which is distinguished by great commitment and individual approach to the client. This is its advantage over large corporations that often fall into routine and work according to established patterns, paying no attention to the individuality of clients.
20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Very professional and keen to detail
Royal Star Expeditions is a very professional tour company. They organized our safari to Nairobi National Park and it was the best. Our driver guide Isaac was kind to us
US
35-50 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Friendly and knowledgeable tour guide with years of experience and the sharpest eyes.
I had the pleasure of going on a game drive with Albert from Serengeti Green. Pick up both days we're prompt, and he greeted us with a warm smile. The vehicle was clean and smelled nice and the cold water in the fridge was the coldest I had in the entire country! Albert was able to spot 4 of the great 5 for us and I was impressed at how well he could find them in tall grass and super far away. He also gave good recommendations for a few places in Arusha and even stopped us by the coffee plantation before the airport drop off so I could grab the coffee I wouldn't shut up about. It was a great experience and I'd recommend this company and Albert to anyone!
