It Started in Africa
- Located In:
- Size:
- 20-50 employees (Founded in 2010)
- Member Of:
- IATA, TATO & TALA
- Tour Types:
- Custom mid-range & luxury tours that can start every day
- Destinations:
- Price Range:
- $150 to $550 per person per day (USD, excl. int'l flights)
Reviews
Email Deblina | 35-50 years of age | Experience level: over 5 safaris
Safari of a Lifetime
It Started in Africa is a local, boutique safari operator and I found them after nearly 3 months of researching various operators for our planned Serengeti trip. They offered complete transparency and flexibility in planning of the itinerary based on our budget and available days and gave us hotel/camp options across the price spectrum for each location. They were patient and prompt with numerous emails, queries and changes esp the one-man wonder Bernard K'angoma. The safari itself was impeccable with a lovely big safari jeep all to ourselves and an experienced safari guide Erasto who ensure we had wonderful sightings of the Big 5 along with countless species of birds and animals. All the camps were lovely and we even got a free upgrade at Serengeti to the Intimate Experiences camp. Food was delicious, homestyle and hearty. The hotel in Arusha on our way in and out, Onsea Lodge was a wonderful little haven though their spa could do with better functionality and staff. But their food and service were impeccable. If you are planning a safari to Serengeti and want a personalized quality trip that doesn't cost the earth you should definitely consider It Started In Africa
US
Email Chava Laub | 35-50 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Customizable, easy communication, reliable and great value
I went with It Started In Africa because a friend recommended this tour company to me. I did research on my own as well and reached out to many companies. Honestly, ISIA was the easiest to communicate with and plan. I was very happy with my mid-range safari I had and the price for what I got was unbeatable. Every question and concern I had was answered promptly. Their advice was valuable.
I was a solo female traveler that has never been to Africa and was a bit hesitant on safety. Never did I have to worry about my safety when I was with this tour company. I arranged for Airport pick-up and drop-off, which was smooth. My safari guide was the one to pick me up and drop me off.
Erasto was a great guide. He really made my trip very memorable. He was also my good luck charm as I got to see the Big 5 in both the Serengeti and Ngorongoro. He was very knowledgeable about the animals, plants and culture. On my first night in he made sure I was able to eat as my accommodations wasn’t able to prepare anything that evening as I arrived very late. He made sure I got to see everything I wanted and I was happy throughout the trip. His tips really helped with my time in Tanzania. Before we embarked on the safari he took me to a local grocery store to buy snacks and treats I wanted. I miss our fireside chats with Konyagi and every time I see a giraffe I think of his favorite “models.”
I loved all my accommodations I stayed at. I honestly wish I had a longer safari now because I wish I had more than one night at each place because each place was incredible. All the food at each location was delicious, and staff were kind and helpful.
I plan to use ISIA again in the future, this time I need to add Zanzibar to the trip and stay longer.
