Earthlife Expeditions
- Located In:
- Size:
- 10-20 employees (Founded in 2011)
- Member Of:
- AMREF, TTGA & TLTO
- Tour Types:
- Custom mid-range & luxury tours that can start every day
- Destinations:
- Price Range:
- $175 to $650 per person per day (USD, excl. int'l flights)
Reviews
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Email Jason Maynard | 35-50 years of age | Experience level: first safari
O U T S T A N D I N G! In Every single aspect, Earthlife Expeditions overdelivered!
So after extensive research (and I mean extensive ... I hate spreadsheets, but I created one to compare tour operators and their offerings), I selected Earthlife Expeditions. It was the single best decision I've made in quite a long time. Deo Japhet is the owner and the main point of contact while discussing your safari needs. We were looking for a family (two parents, two kids) safari on the northern circuit. Deo was patient, helpful with suggestions, and open to more dialogue. Unlike some other tour operators I contacted via email, I never felt any pressure to sign a contract or make a deposit. And even after I had booked, I was allowed to add on other activities (a coffee plantation tour), which he deftly scheduled in a suitable timeframe.
During the safari, our driver-guide Paul help to exceed all our very high expectations on safari. He was super friendly, answered tons of questions (both on animals and just about life in Tanzania), has that uncanny ability to spot animals.
The safari started in Arusha, after Paul picked us up at JRO. We left the next day for Tarangire National Park. In consultation with Deo, we selected Tarangire over Lake Manyara, and are so happy with the decision. Tarangire was a wonderful start. Don't skip out on it. We stayed at Tarangire Simba Lodge, which Deo selected and was wonderful. This felt like a luxury safari without the luxury price tag.
The next day, we did a cultural tour in Mto Wa Mbu village, hike to Enduro waterfall and explored the elephant caves, and visited a coffee plantation. All arranged by Earthlife, with expert local guides for each. Paul was waiting for us at the end and we headed to Ngorongoro.
The crater was incredible. Paul was expert at plotting out our day. We stalked lions as they stalked buffalo. He spotted a bat-eared fox first thing the morning, which are tough to spot. We forded a rocky stream in our Land Cruiser easily. And speaking of the Land Cruiser, this vehicle has it all. First, Deo promised plenty of water, soft drinks, candy and snacks in the vehicle to be sure the kids were always fueled up. Paul didn't disappoint on that front. The icebox in the back was always accommodating. And ginger snaps, butter cookies or cashews would appear on the shelf in front of us. The four seats were spacious, with lots of storage (a shelf ran across the front with walls ... very handy), and each seat had at least one outlet with international prong access, no adapter needed. Two large beanbags were under the seats for your camera. Don't waste space or weight packing one. And some tour operators promised 1L of bottle water per person per day. Earthlife has no limits, which is good when you do long game drives under the Tanzanian sun. Stay hydrated!
Paul knew that in June, the main road between Ngorongoro and Serengeti would be under construction, causing some slowdowns and even more bumps than usual. With our permission, we went off the road (allowed in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, not in the crater or SNP) and found amazing sights we would've missed otherwise.
In Serengeti National Park, we stayed at Kubu Kubu Tented Camp in the Seronera area. Again, Deo hit it out fo the park. Paul had not yet visited this camp as it was relatively new, and even he was impressed. Staff, food, views, cabins ... all excellent. Without Deo, we'd have missed out on it.
We relied on Paul to plan out our time in the Serengeti (three full days). He was masterful at it, with one day going into the Western Corridor for the migration, another searching (and finding!) one of only three packs of African Painted Dogs (aka, African Wild Dogs) relocated from the south of the country. Even other driver-guides were incredulous of our find, pestering me to confirm what Paul had told them.
Deo had booked our tickets out of Seronera to Zanzibar and Paul delivered us and handled all the logistics at the airport. It was a sad time since not only was our safari ending, we had to say goodbye to Paul, who had become a great friend.
Bonus Plug for Earthlife Expeditions: We had booked our international plane tickets into JRO and out of Dar es Salaam, going to Zanzibar after the safari. Deo graciously booked our plane tickets from ZNZ to DAR. However, after we got to Zanzibar, reasons cropped up that caused us to want to be in Dar for a night before our international flights. We contacted Deo on a Saturday afternoon, asking a HUGE favor: could he rebook our tickets for a day earlier? Not only that, he had already given us gratis two free aiport transfers, so could we get picked up a day early, also? He called the airline (Coastal Aviation, recommended) and got the manager he knew at home. He secured a promise to get us rebooked in the morning and told us to be ready for the pick up. He said to expect an email by 9:30 am with the new tickets. Well, Africa Time is a serious condition and I wasn't sure if we'd have the tickets then. Call me a Doubting Thomas: the email arrived at 8:48 am.
This was supposed to be an item I had always dreamed of doing (African Safari!) and then I could check it off and move on to other things. It went sooo well and simply was far better than anything I had imagined, that we will return to Tanzania. We will book with Earthlife and we will ask for Paul to guide us again.
If you have been searching for a Tanzanian tour operator, stop now and contact Earthlife Expeditions. You. Will. Not. Be. Disappointed.
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Email Lindsey.C | 35-50 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Awesome service&reliable company
After comparing tons safari companies&agents,we decide to work with Earthlife Expedition tour.Not only because its compatible price,but also the owner-Deo .He reply email quickly , always patient to answer my unlimted questions ,and advises us the best safari package according to our request.
At first couple days, we has some personal issues during safari,we contacted with Deo,Deo reposed and helped us to deal with the problems immediately. Deo is 100% trustable and honest,he cares his clients no matter before/during/or after safari.
Our guide-Denial is humble ,experimental driver/guide with excelent english.Daniel worked hard to make sure we see more,even we already see everting at the beginning of our safari.He always drives safely ,and make sure our safety&confort first.He knows every animals,plants,and local culture.We learns a lot from him,and enjoy each moment talking to him,we are always the last tale to leave during dinner every night.Of course,we saw big 5,the great migration ( crossing river),and more during safari.Having lunching under tree at middle of Serengeti plain and Bush breakfast are unforgettable experiences.
Go for Earthlife,you won't be disappointed .
Great company, unforgettable experience!
My friend and I did a 3-day Safari with Earthlife Expeditions and it couldn't be better! Me and my friend had a very close schedule and have only begun talking to them 3 weeks before the Safari.
They were not only very efficient on arranging everything but also extremely kind from emailing with Caudence and telephoning them to the day we actually met. I believe the best thing about Earthlife Expeditions is that it is a small company (though one of the 10 best in Tanzania) but surprisingly organized and able to do personalized schedules.
Regarding the Safari itself, we went from Kilimanjaro International Airport to a hotel in Arusha (where they happily took us to buy a few supplies and change money) and then to our stops: Lake Manyara, Ngorongoro Crater and Tarangire National Park. Most of hotels were of high standard and we had great meals (the only problem was that sometimes the shower wasn't warm).
Our Tour Guide was Charles, who has 35 years of experience and a pair of Eagle Eyes. What was best about Charles was that he would go slower than other cars when he thought that might be animals around, but when he heard of lions or other more less common animals, he would just rush through the savannah to get us there (and he did quite a few times).
Regarding prices: it is not the cheapest nor the most expensive company out there: we paid 1200 dollars for 4 nights, all meals, transportation and Safari. Drinks at the hotel are not included and there is a lot of tipping (5 dollars per day per person to each hotel; 15-30 dollars per day per person to the Safari Guide, we gave 60 euros for both of us).
You have to keep in mind that it might not always be comfortable and you might be unlucky some days and do get to see all you want (we were extremely lucky: lions, cheetahs and a caracal). It was a great experience, and A good fraction of it was because of Earthlife Expeditions!
DE
Email Ruth B | 35-50 years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
Perfect in every way
My partner and I went on a 6 day safari to the Northern Circuit of Tanzania with Earthlife in August 2017 and can recommend the company unreservedly! From the initial contact to arrival, from briefing to debriefing and departure all staff at Earthlife (amiable sales consultant, attentive manager, excellent tour guide) proved to be highly professional and attentive throughout. Communication was always fast, professional and efficient. The itinerary is tailor-made according to the customers’ wishes at an extremely fair price. You can feel that customer satisfaction means a lot to every single staff member at Earthlife so everyone contributes a great deal to offer the clients an unforgettable experience.
Our trip to Tarangire and Lake Manyara National Park, the Ngorongoro Crater and finally to the Serengeti was absolutely unique. Our guide Jeff was the best we can imagine: He literally spotted every animal (from big to tiny ones, rare birds and reptiles…) and could give detailed information about its traits and behaviours. Moreover, he was an extremely pleasant and humorous conversation partner, a very considerate and prudent driver and actively made sure we felt comfortable at any time. The accommodation and the food in fantastic and comfortable lodges which exceeded the expected standard made the overall experience even more perfect.
We would wholeheartedly like to recommend Earthlife as a friendly, attentive, reliable and trustworthy company. Thank you for a perfect and unforgettable holiday.
Perfect in All aspects
Recently returned from a sensational safari in the serengeti and crater area, from the start the the information and professional approach from Earthlife expeditions was second to none, my contact Caudence was fantastic,as I had previously been on a safari ,we worked through my itinerary to fill in the areas I had not been before and also the animals that I had not seen before,combined with the guide Jeffery I can only speak highly of my wonderful experience that Earthlife arranged , from the communication to the accommodation to the vehicle and to my guide Jeff thank you very much I will have lasting memories of a sensationally arranged Safari For all who read this I thoroughly recommend this company and would be happy to answer any questions you may have Thanks again earthlife
CA
Email Nicolas Castaneda | 20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Everything was beyond what we expected!
We looked around many places trying to find a company that gave us confidence for our safari honeymoon trip. The guys on EarthLife were always available to respond all our questions and very quickly which gave us a good idea. The paying plan also make us feel very safe in the decision we were making. Once we landed everything was smooth sailing. Moison picked us up and took us to their office and they greeted us with the best smile and enthusiasm. Moison took us to buy sim cards for our phones and to our first hotel which was brilliant!.
From this point forward all hotels were incredible, the food to our surprise was delicious everywhere we went. We didn't take a friend's advice and bought a bottle of our favorite whiskey beforehand as the hotels have a limited stock of booze. They always found a way to make us feel like our honeymoon was special.
Moison our guide was the best guide you could wish for, he was a seasoned guide with many miles on the serengeti and a TRUE MAASAI! He always took the longest routes and made sure we covered everything, and his efforts paid off! we saw the big 5! and plenty other animals, he followed his gut and his knowledge to separate himself from the other tours and gave us spectacular views of the animals and sites. You could even see him give directions to the other tourguides and you could tell he was well respected!
All in all this trip became me and my wife's all time favorite trip and this was all thanks to the services provided by EarthLife and its team.
Email Jane U. | 65+ years of age | Experience level: first safari
The perfect Christmas getaway
Wow! A trip of a lifetime adventure. From start to finish Earthlife came through. Caudence answered questions quickly and was very helpful to my changes. When our flights changed the night before we were to fly, Caudence handled it quickly. We had a small problem with my final payment not going through, but Deo and Caudence were helpful to solve the situation.
The tented camps were amazing. They looked like it was set up for a movie. The team were very caution for our safety along with their team. The lodges were beautiful and food was great. The hotel in Zanzibar was awesome and it was like we were at a family's home for a Holiday. The only problem was the distance into a shopping area.
The best part of the safari was seeing all the animals and of course, Gilbert our driver. He was so knowledgeable about the animals, land and the culture. He had a wonderful and friendly personality along with his great sense of humor. By the end of the safari we were like a family.
Thank you for the lasting memories of the safari and new friendships formed.
SG
Email Navya | 20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
A phenomenal and memorable experience!
I am so happy I stumbled upon Earthlife Expeditions online. I reached out to various tour providers online, however Mr Deo's immediate and prompt response, along with a detailed itinerary and a bunch of different tips and suggestions instantly stood out from the other providers. I was organising a family holiday, which was a task made even more daunting by the fact that my parents wanted a laid back, luxurious safari, and my younger brother wanted adventure.
Mr. Deo was not just understanding and accommodating, he was also incredibly flexible with the itinerary and gave us great recommendations. Having been in the industry for so long, he really knows it inside out. In addition to that, he is very warm, and goes the extra mile to make sure his clients are well taken care of. He really does make it a point to see to things personally.
Our trip started in Tarangire, and we continued on to Manyara, Central Serengeti, Northern Serengeti (to see the migration) and finally the Ngorongoro Crater.
The team took care of everything, from accommodation bookings, to food, drinks and the entire travel with all permits. The quality of the lodges and camps were phenomenal. Like something from the movies! There were enough and more safety precautions taken, and we never felt scared or worried. The food was absolutely delicious, and we ended our trip in Zanzibar where we stayed in a small boutique hotel (which was absolutely beautiful!).
Our guide, Mr. Gilbert, was very friendly, and incredibly knowledgable about all the animals and the birds. He is so warm and friendly, we really took to him immediately. He had a great sense of humour and we were really very fortunate to have him as our guide.
As unforeseen issues can affect anyone, we did have a slight issue towards the end of our trip with the car, which unfortunately was difficult to rectify as we were in the middle of nowhere. However what was heartening were the steps Mr Deo took to make sure that we were comfortable and duly compensated for any inconvenience. He made it a point to meet us at breakfast before we left for Zanzibar to take down all of our personal view points and to make a note of our feedback. This not only demonstrated great service but also showed us how personally involved Mr Deo is with all of his clients, and that he will go the extra mile to make sure we have a good holiday.
Issues can happen with anyone, anytime. The real difference is when you're well taken care of throughout, and the tour providers go the extra mile to make you happy.
This really was a trip of a lifetime, memories I will carry forward with me for life. We witnessed the great migration, were fortunate enough to see a Lion and Buffalo hunt from start to end (the buffalo escaped a pack of 4 lions!) and Mr Gilbert made it a point to show us everything we possibly could within the time frame.
I will recommend Mr Deo and Earthlife Expeditions to my family and friends in a heartbeat, every single time. Thank you so so much for making our holiday so memorable!
CA
Email Linda and Don | 65+ years of age | Experience level: first safari
Fabulous, Gilbert is the best! He is polite and makes sure your needs are met. Goes out of his way
The whole trip was fantastic! Gilbert made sure we saw as many animals as possible. Accommodations and food were excellent. The whole experience was wonderful and certainly lived up to our expectations and more.
We would highly recommend the company and Gilbert as a guide.
CA
Email Gabrielle M | 50-65 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Excellent company - Trip of a life time
We picked Earthlife from seven responses for information I received from a recommended 10 companies I saw. Caudence was quick to respond with a very comprehensive proposal. She gave an outline of a potential itinerary and explained what we would see, with the suggested accommodation to review. We wanted a taste of Tanzanian's animals, landscape, culture, flora and fauna and that is what we got. We also wanted to visit the mountain gorillas in Uganda and she arranged that for us. Through a few prompt communications we completed an itinerary to suit us including a trip to the base camp of Killimanjaro.
Our driver/guide Aggrey was there to pick us up in Killimanjaro to start our adventure. He was so accommodating. It was a private tour for my husband and I so he was there to suggest, recommend and implement "the plan". He was an excellent driver and easily spotted animals that we never even saw. We had a fun time with him and there was no clock watching, he was there for us!!
The company was professional and very friendly. We even visited their offices for a pre and post trip briefing. Everyone made sure we were happy and we certainly were. We highly recommend Earthlife and have a life time of memories. Thank you.