Three members of the team on safari near Nairobi
Transtrek Safaris
- Located In:
-
United Kingdom
- Size:
- 5-10 employees (Founded in 2013)
- Member Of:
- TTA & TRA
- Tour Types:
- Custom mid-range tours that can start every day
- Destinations:
- Price Range:
- $220 to $380 per person per day (USD, excl. int'l flights)
Reviews
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Email Dan | 20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Exceeded Our Expectations - Seven Day Tour, Rift Valley Lakes and the Masai Mara
My wife and I took a seven day private tour which included Lake Nakuru and Lake Naivasha in the Rift Valley, the Masai Mara, and the Mara Naboisho Conservancy. Our trip spanned the end of June into July. From the outset, Daniel’s (with Transtrek) communications were prompt and helpful. He addressed all our questions and concerns, while offering suggestions without pushing to up-sell. Once in Kenya, we met our main guide, Peter, when he picked us up from the Nairobi airport Hilton. The tour was conducted in a seven seat Toyota Land Cruiser with a pop up canopy for 360 degree viewing. Peter was friendly and professional throughout the trip. He was always more than willing to talk about the country, people, and wildlife, make arrangements, and keep us well stocked with bottled water. Daniel made planning and booking our first trip to Africa as painless as possible and Peter saw to it that the tour went smoothly. We hope to return to Kenya in the future and fully intend to book with Transtrek again.
Parks:
The tour began with a roughly four hour drive from Nairobi hotel to Lake Nakuru National Park. Lake Nakuru National Park is a pretty park consisting mainly of wetlands and forested areas. In contrast to the tan savannah of the Mara, Lake Nakuru was vibrantly green. In addition to many other species, we saw both black and white rhinos. After two nights, we traveled a bit over two hours to Lake Naivasha National Park. At Lake Naivasha, we took a private boat tour to an island which allows bush walks due to its lack of large predators. The lake is home to an impressive array of bird species. For the final three nights of the itinerary, we drove the five plus hours the Masai Mara region. While we enjoyed the Rift lakes, the Mara region was the highlight. The national reserve, with its grand sweeping grasslands and wild abundance of life, is rightly iconic. It can get crowded (particularly around big cats) but it was not nearly as bad as I feared. In early July, it was still possible to find areas with no one else in sight. The Mara Naboisho Conservancy, lacking the vast open spaces of the national reserve, is mainly covered in groups of shrubs and smallish trees. The conservancy offers a different experience in several respects because it is privately operated and visitor numbers are controlled: night game drives and bush walks (with armed guides) are permitted and it does not get crowded. In addition, it has one of highest concentrations of lions in East Africa. The cost to stay in the conservancy is higher than the nearby national reserve; however, once we saw what was offered, we did not regret the expense for a moment.
Accommodation:
We stayed at five properties while in Kenya: Hilton Garden Inn Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, Lake Nakuru Sopa Lodge, Lake Naivasha Sopa Resort, Basecamp Explorer Masai Mara, and Basecamp Explorer Eagle View. The Hilton was our airport lodging before and after the tour, which we arranged separately. Daniel did offer to book on our behalf but my wife had Hilton points to burn. The hotel is new, clean, comfortable, operated by friendly and efficient staff, and has a very good restaurant. The two Sopa properties were similar. Both consisted of a restaurant/reception area and chalets with two to four rooms. The rooms were spacious and well appointed. The bathrooms were clean but hot water is limited by design. The food, mainly served buffet style, ranged from fine to good and there was variety. The Nakuru Sopa Lodge is situated on a ridge and has a lovely view over Lake Nakuru. The Naivasha resort has zebra, giraffe, impala, waterbuck, several species of monkeys, and (at night) hippopotamus on the property. The Basecamp Explorer properties are both tented camps, though with electricity and showers in every room. Basecamp Explorer Masai Mara sits in a wooded area just over the Talek River from the Mara, within sight of the national reserve. The tents are a bit spartan but contain what one expects in a hotel room, with two odd exceptions: there are no mirrors or trash cans. Basecamp Explorer Eagle View is arrayed along a ridge with the Naboisho Conservancy. The dining/reception area has a fantastic view over a lightly wooded valley, regularly populated by herds of zebra, wildebeest, water buffalo, and impala. In contrast with Basecamp Explorer Masai Mara, the tents at Eagle View are certainly not spartan. This is a luxury camp. Both Basecamp properties serve excellent food, usually in 3-4 courses. Lunch and dinner typically consisted of soup, bread, entrée, and dessert. There are no options, you receive what they prepare for a given meal but we were never disappointed. I bought head chef’s cookbook.
DE
Email José Alexandre | 20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Magical
My partner and I spent two weeks in Kenya where we visited Nairobi, Masai Mara, Amboseli and Tsavo West. In Nairobi we spent most time in David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust and in the Giraffe Manor, whereas in the other locations we were located inside the parks and doing morning and afternoon Safaris or full day Safaris.
While we were preparing our trip Daniel was incredible helpful, giving us all the insights and tips he had from all his experience organizing Safaris, and was super patient and great to communicate with.
When we got to Kenya, Peter, our driver, was waiting for us and he was for the remaining of the two weeks our guide. Peter is a super interesting person, very good communicator and very well informed, and it was a delight to share these two weeks with him and talking over about the Kenyan wildlife and several other topics around Kenyan culture.
We are definitely going to go back (hopefully soon!) and definitely booking again with Transtrek, as the experience could not have been better, totally recommend.
Email Susan | 35-50 years of age | Experience level: over 5 safaris
2nd trip with Transtrek, ready to book the 3rd!
After an amazing trip in 2017 with my partner, I had told my friends about the best holiday I had ever had, this led to our safari in March.
Daniel is amazing, after months of emailing back and forth to get all the details in place and choosing an itinerary that matched everyone's ideas, we had everything in place for our trip.
We were taken care of from the minute we left the airport, being met by a representive from our hotel and then being met by Peter in the morning to start the adventure. This is the second time Peter has been my guide, he is incredible! Very patient and goes out his way to find the best sightings and ensure we were never rushed, giving us options of staying with the viewing we were with or moving on. Peter took care of everything, ensuring we were ready for all our activities and had plenty of water during the days.
We stayed in a mixture of accommodation, but the tents were my favourite - although calling them tents does not give a true reflection of the comfort and space we had, including fully function bathrooms. All the places we stayed we very welcoming , the staff were so helpful ensuring every need was met and checking that we were happy at all times.
Transtrek provides a personal, dedicated and flexible service that ensures you get what you want from your trip, I have enjoyed both trips with Transtrek and have already requested my next itinerary from Daniel.
BR
Email Eduardo | 35-50 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Awsome
My wife and I visited Kenya in early 2018 and we absolutely loved every single bit of it. We went to Masai Mara and got to see all the big five animals, excluding the Rhino, multiple times. In fact, we saw most of the wildlife.
Peter our guide and travel companion was exceptional, very kind and patient. The accommodations in the park were top notch. Thanks to Transtrek and Daniel’s efforts, I was able to have a horse riding experience inside the park and it was amazing.
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Email Terry | 50-65 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Only one word to describe our Transtrek Safari with Peter as our guide....INCREDIBLE
Susan, Jen, Laurie, and i (terry) booked our safari with Daniel at Transtrek. Susan having gone on a similar safaris with them last year. The communication was excellent, every question answered in a timely manner. Additional items like plane travel back to Nairobi, additional game drives, dinner reservs in Nairobi, etc were handled without much involvement on our part and totally met all of our expectations. Peter the driver/guide was stupendous ! such a joy to be around and so knowledgeable about the areas and animals we didnt need id books ! He anticipated our photo positions and always had the animals best interests at heart. Peter had a close network of other guides who communicated with each other to get us to where the animals were instantly. All of the accomadations were great, wouldnt have changed a thing. If anyone reading this would like more detailed info or to see our photos feel free to contact me [email protected].
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Email Jeanne | 35-50 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Excellent tour company
Daniel customized a trip for my husband and friend. They started out in Nairobi and then traveled to Samburu, Ol Pejeta, Lake Naivasha and the Maasai Mara. From the first contact, to making plans and payment was spot on. The activities, the vehicle and the lodging were excellent. Tony was a friendly and knowledgeable driver/ guide. Daniel was easy to get a hold of, answered all questions and made some really good suggestions that made the trip even more enjoyable. I would highly recommend Daniel and Transtrek.
Email Matt | 35-50 years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
Excellent safari in Kenya, highly recommended
Transtrek organised an excellent safari to Naivasha, Nakuru, Masai Mara and Naivosho Conservancy in Kenya for me, my partner and my father in December 2017. The booking, payment and administration process was very simple and easy, and gave me confidence we were booking with a reliable company. We had a superb guide and driver, Peter, who drove very well, had great knowledge about Kenya's wildlife, and who clearly enjoys his work. Because of his knowledge, we were able to see a huge range of wildlife, including all of the 'big five', at close quarters. The vehicle was comfortable and well maintained, and the accommodation was superb. We have since used Transtrek again, to book a very similar trip for friends, with confidence that they will have a great trip too. I highly recommend talking to them about your East African safari and travel plans, you won't be disappointed.
CA
Email Evelyn “Laurie” and Elfie | 50-65 years of age | Experience level: over 5 safaris
Trust Transtrek for the best safari ever!
From my initial contact with Daniel to an amazing 14 day safari, Transtrek never disappointed.
With more than a few emails due to the modifications I asked for (and Daniel happily adjusted the tour) the down payment was easily/safely sent via wire transfer through my local bank.
There were huge flight delays on the the way to Africa. Not to worry. Again an email or two and Daniel ensured our guide, Tony was at the airport waiting despite our 24 hour late arrival.
My friend and I were immediately taken with Tony’s kindness and respect. His easy going attitude was a pleasure throughout the trip.
Tony is very skilled at spotting wildlife. From birds to leopards to trees, Tony knew them all. He obviously has a passion for animals which I truly appreciated.
Due to his driving skills on and off road, we always felt safe.
Our accommodation throughout the safari was better than we could have imagined.
Most were tented camps which we loved! Having camped numerous times in Africa with overland companies, believe me when I say that these “tents” were spectacular! Beds, showers, toilets, electricity...you name it, the tents had it.
Our safari included Amboseli, Tsavo East, Tsavo West, Aberdares, Samburu and Ol Pejeta.
I hope to return to Kenya and Transtrek will definitely be my first contact when I do!
Asante Sana to Tony and Daniel.
IE
Email Seán Fitzpatrick | 20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Amazing experience
An amazing trip over the 4 days. Excellent guide in David with excellent accommodation across the few days. Only blemish being our airport hotel accommodation in Nairobi before setting out on safari - wasn't up to scratch but as far as the safari goes, could not have a single complaint.
Would definitely recommend Transtrek for anyone looking to book a safari.
Outstanding safari adventure with Transtrek - Book now, do not hesitate.
After months of research, I finally decided on Transtrek for our "Bucket List" trip. From the start our communication with Daniel was easy and pleasant, he really worked hard to get us the trip we wanted, he is thoughtful and paid close attention to what our needs were. He revised the itinerary a few times with our input, until it was precisely what we wanted, and within our budget. I felt very comfortable using Transtrek which is important when you are spending a good amount of money for a 13-day vacation. Trying to plan something from a distance, with a stranger in another country is intimidating, but working with Daniel was like working with a friend, which truly put us at ease.
The trip itself? Well, we are still smiling, downloading movies and 3500+ photos. It was unbelievable, one cannot imagine the things we saw, everything but the rhino, but that was OK with us since on the way to look for the rhinos, we came upon 2 large male lion brothers on their way back home around 830am. We followed them for an hour, chuffing and roaring as they communicated. The behavior was extremely interesting, and we were so close to them, that my heart started pounding (and I'm not easily frightened) about a 20-25 foot distance.
All of our days were filled with really interesting encounters, a giant python, African hunting dogs (very rare) and a female elephant so close that Peter didn't turn the vehicle off since she was in "charge" mode. We kind of snuck up on her eating in Tsavo West. The brush was so dense that we couldn't see each other until we were right on top of her, and she us. Exhilarating! We saw so much; Lions, hippos, zebra, giraffe, elephant, leopard, cheetah, buffalo, crocodile, hyena, ostrich, warthog and much more. I even got a bunch of kisses from a friendly, beautiful eland at the gate of the Masai Mara reserve. A huge animal with large horns, but tame and friendly as he/she was a rescue at a young age. I could have stayed there all day with the eland, beautiful animal...
This safari was absolutely unforgettable thanks to Peter our driver. He is very knowledgeable, smart, knows his animals and their territories, he was also very accommodating to us and was flexible on his timing. We were in good hands with Peter, we felt safe, comfortable and most of all we had the time of our lives, really an incredible trip. He knew where to locate and spot the animals, as well as an expert on the wildlife itself, especially the birds, so many huge birds in the reserves and Peter knew what all of them were - impressive knowledge.
Do not hesitate for a moment booking with Transtrek if you are searching for a tour company. I am a skeptic at heart, and always will be. I do not ever trust blindly without extensive research, but at some point you need to book a safari with someone, right? My instinct told me Daniel is a trustworthy man after emails back and forth with him, and I am happy to report my instincts paid off. Great trip, great animal sightings, and especially a great company to put my trust in, I would use Transtrek again in a heartbeat.
Asante Sana Transtrek, hope to meet again in the future.