ID
20-35 years of age | Experience level: over 5 safaris
Family Trip
Our holiday with Gilbert as tourguide is one I will never forget. He had lots of knowledge, his English was excellent and it really seemed like he was enjoiing the jouney as well. Good memories.
NZ
35-50 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Great experience!
We did the 4 day Classic Kruger Safari with this very professional company. Excellent communication, answered all my questions very promptly by email! Payment was very easy. We did our safari in a closed vehicle due to poor weather. At first we did wonder if we would feel less ‘at one’ with nature in a closed vehicle, but overall this made it more comfortable for us. We did however go in an open truck on the night time safari (on our last night). We saw a huge variety of animals! Big 5 didn’t take long to tick off. Our guide (Hoppy) has excellent knowledge about the animals and is a master at spotting animals from very very far away! Going in October was perfect because it’s not too busy (fewer cars in the park = better chance at getting a good view of the spotted animals!). Also the animals were out and about more (it wasn’t too hot so the animals weren’t away hiding in the shade). The accommodation is pretty basic but always clean, comfortable, and with air conditioning.
My only two recommendations: a bit more down time to ourselves would have been nice (i.e. dinner or lunch to ourselves); and a chilly bin in the vehicle to keep our drinks cool.
Overall we had an unforgettable experience and would definitely recommend this company!
MM
50-65 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Adventure of a lifetime
Our three-day Masai Mara safari experience was everything we hoped and more. Booking, communications, transport and logistics - everything was smooth and according to our needs and wishes. Our guide Sami was fantastic - an endless source of knowledge and stories, and with a very pleasant personality. He went out of his way to give us the best and most varied experience, and made sure we got the best view whenever we stopped for a closer look. We were extremely happy to have him as our guide.
Another highlight was the early morning balloon ride with subsequent champagne breakfast. It was nothing short of spectacular to see from above the herds of wildebeest and zebras make their way across the savannah on their way back to the Serengeti (we caught the tail end of the migration). Totally recommend it.
The accommodation at Ashnil Lodge was fine, with friendly staff; the food was good, though not fantastic.
We also went for the "optional visit to a Masai village" on our way back, but would not recommend it: a rip-off and total tourist trap.
All in all: our safari with Classic Journeys Africa was the adventure of a lifetime.
MX
20-35 years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
Best tour ever!!
Simon is the best!! He is an amazing person! I am very thankfull to simon because we had the best experience and a lot of fun I think he is the best tour guide in Kenya and The World! He offered a personalized service!
US
50-65 years of age | Experience level: first safari
This was a transformational experience!
Though our first stop in Africa was Kenya, the trip and its planning began months earlier. Tanner Knorr was meticulous in his explanations of alternatives and his ability to explain OSAs approach both to touring of and investment in the land. We had a carefully detailed itinerary and were fully prepared long before we boarded a flight.
Our trip started in Kenya - focused on the elephant and rhino orphanage and the giraffe hotel. OSA arranged the entire experience from local guide to accommodations. The close-up experience with the animals, including the short introduction to Kenya and Nairobi were superb. We then went on to the Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Tarangire and other locations along Northern Tanzania. OSA arranged all aspects of the trip and it was unforgettable. We saw all the animals for sure, and our guide, Hosea, was as knowledgable and personable as they come. However, our visits with a number of the local tribes juxtaposed unbelievable an cultural experience and education into life in Tanzania with the majesty of safari. Meeting the locals put into stark and relative perspective the differences between Africa and and other places in the world. In particular, OSAs involvement in improving life for 3 tribes by developing access to clean drinking water was impressive. The interactions with local people, from leaders to chiefs to ordinary people provided a perfect complement to the safari adventures. We ended our trip in Zanzibar, which again, was fully orchestrated by OSA. The contrast between the predominant muslim island to the mainland was profound. Moreover, the Zanzibar resorts compete with any in the world - and are so unexpected given the simplicity of the surrounding communities. All considered, this was an impressive trip, all thanks to the wonderful planning and execution of OSA. We are all eager to go back and explore other regions of the country. If you are going to Africa, we highly recommend you consult with OSA!
US
50-65 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Experience was beyond our expectations.
Upon conclusion of our African adventure, I was thankful we had chosen Wild Planet Safari as our tour company. Thale helped us plan our itinerary, explained benefits of different camps and types of transportation to maximize our opportunities to see as many types of animals and birds as possible. By staying at three camps within Kruger National Park, we were exposed to different types of bush and the animals that live there. We stayed in Rondawels which are thatched roof concrete buildings with private baths. The Safari guide, Chris was amazing. He has the eyes of an eagle and we didn't see an animal or bird he was not familiar with. We believe we would have missed many animals without Chris to point them out to us. His tour is an education. I even took notes! By making our Safari private, we had flexibility with location and timing. On our final day we traveled back by Blyde River Canyon. A beautiful way to complete our Safari. Thale also helped us with reservations in Victoria Falls. After staying in the park, we wanted something a little fancier for a couple of nights. Thale suggested Batonka Lodge which was perfect.
I strongly recommend Wild Planet Safari for your African adventure.
HR
20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Great experience
We went on a 4 day safari in Tanzania (Tarangire, Serengeti, N'goro goro). Everything was as described. We saw many animals. Only thing we didn't get to see was black rhino. Overall great experience and I would recommend this tour operator.
US
50-65 years of age | Experience level: first safari
A very professional and helpful experience.
This was the first time we have booked a tour like this and we found the communications very helpful. Each time we had a question, it was addressed quickly. The only complaint that we have is in regards to the Visas for entering Kenya and Tanzania. We were not aware of the cost or that there was the ability to apply for an "E Visa" for Kenya prior to arriving. It was very stressful and confusing, especially at the Tanzania boarder. Also, the need for US dollars was a surprise to us and credit card use is limited. We expected that we would use more local currency.
The tour itself was wonderful and we enjoyed our guides very much. The parks we visited were amazing and the accommodations were very nice. The food exceeded our expectations. Shopping at the markets was not something we enjoyed, but the game drives never failed to impress. Our Kenyan guide was especially knowledgable and we enjoyed looking for birds with him.
The overall experience was fantastic. We would recommend Boundless Africa Journeys to friends and appreciate all they did to make our anniversary trip so special.
CA
50-65 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Fantastic experience in Africa
My wife and I just returned from a two week trip to Africa that was put together by Chris at Safari Partners. The trip was extremely well organized and all we had to do is remember when the next great safari or meal was taking place. We spent two days in Zimbabwe, five days in Botswana and three days in Cape Town. The trip was a tremendous success! The lodges we were sent to were outstanding and the food offered was excellent. We had to keep reminding ourselves we were in Africa! We saw all the animals we wanted to see and I can assure you they were very close to the Safari Truck. The photographers in our group never stopped taking pictures!!
The staff at all the lodges were excellent and we enjoyed all our safari guides and trackers. They really worked hard to make sure we saw all the animals we were looking for.
Thank you Chris and Safari partners for a truly memorable trip to Africa.
DE
20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Great Safari for two days in Selous Park
We did the safari in a group of four people in selous park. It was very well organized with a good accommodation. Our guide samweli was very kind and has also a lot of experience.
Thanks to Goba Tours for the amazing time!