The Grassrootz Adventures Dream Team 2023
Grassrootz Adventures
- Located In:
-
Netherlands
- Size:
- 1-5 employees (Founded in 2012)
- Member Of:
- UTB, UCF & UCOTA
- Tour Types:
- Custom mid-range tours that can start every day
- Destinations:
- Price Range:
- $75 to $500 per person per day (USD, excl. int'l flights)
Reviews
BG
Email Ilian Shopov | 50-65 years of age | Experience level: over 5 safaris
Fabulous safari experience in Uganda - Kidepo Valley NP, Murchison Falls NP, Mabamba Swamp!
I and my travel companion just came back from 12 days safari in Uganda with Grassrootz Adventures Safaris. I have not felt sorry even for a moment that I have chosen their offer out of eight quotes from various safari outfitters based in Uganda. In most cases we have to sacrifice the least expensive offer in favor of the best experience or vice versa, but with this safari the owner of Grassrootz Adventures - Sander van Zanten just nailed it from the very first email that I have received from him. I am quite experienced with African safaris person and a keen wildlife photographer and by no means I would consider myself an easy to satisfy customer. Sander did provide for every possible request of mine, including the type of vehicle that we used - safari Land Cruiser with two rows of seats behind the guide and side windows that we could open on both rows (except the pop-up roof, of course). Every other detail and aspect of the safari were discussed in details in a very professional manner.
Excellent communication with rapid response to every email that I have sent. I do plan my safaris very carefully, but Sander managed to further improve the overall experience by optimizing the schedule and offering a better accommodation for a lower price in Kidepo Valley National Park than the one that I had originally selected.
The guide Moses did his best to satisfy our needs and even added some extra activities. He can be flexible, when possible, just talk to him when you get new ideas during the trip.
We had one day and overnight in Entebbe, full day (just one day) transfer to Kidepo Valley NP, which was a long, but very interesting drive, followed by four nights at Savannah Lodge (it is actually an excellent tented camp), located on top of a hill some 50 meters from the "gate" of the park. There isn't a real gate, at least up to this moment, neither it is manned, so no need to wait in line or do any kind of paperwork before entering the park. Very comfortable large Meru style tents with a private flushing toilet and a real shower (hot water at any time). Batteries can be recharged at any time inside the tent or at the dining area. Stunning 360 degree views to the savannah and the surrounding mountains. Great food (four course dinner) and inexpensive drinks (cold Nile Special beer is less than 2 US dollars). The park itself is nothing short of spectacular. Although the number of visitors is increasing, it is still a very wild place with stunning scenery. We did hire park rangers for most of the game drives in Kidepo Valley, some drives we did with our guide only. We also did an optional night game drive with our vehicle (plus a park ranger) and a spot light rented from Savannah Lodge. Great luck with that - young adult male and female lions, lot of buffalo, porcupine, white tailed mongoose, grey duiker and other animals. During the day game drives we saw the largest buffalo herds that I have ever seen - perhaps over 2,000 heads, leopard in a tree, lioness with a kill (young buffalo), server cat, tons of oribis and defassa waterbuk, Rotchild's giraffes, Jackson's hartebeest. Quite a lot of birds, including a martial eagle.
The other park we visited was Murchison Falls NP. Fort Murchison was an excellent option just outside the park, about 10 minutes drive to Tangi Gate. Victoria Nile upstream (to the falls) and downstream (to the delta) boat safaris were included in the price. We did see the very rare Shoe billed stork and many other birds and animals from the boat (the Shoebill on the trip to the delta). The wildlife density in Murchison Falls NP is higher than in Kidepo Valley NP and although not as wild as Kidepo, there weren't as many visitors there as in Masai Mara or Serengeti. Sometimes we would drive for two-three hours without seeing any other vehicle.
I forgot to mention, that we did the Mabamba Swamp day tour while in Entebbe where we saw the Shoebill from a short distance. The swamp itself is a very beautiful place and there are many other water birds present. Do not forget to ask Sander to include this trip to your itinerary.
My personal advice to any prospective Uganda visitor would be not waste time, just contact Grassrootz Adventures and Sander will custom- build the best itinerary according to your requirements.
BG
Email Ognyan Todorov | 35-50 years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
A unique experience
I want to share impressions of my stay in Uganda for the past 2 weeks. My trip was organized by Sander and was done with the help of a local gig named George. We visited several national parks - Murchison Falls, Queen Elizabeth, Kabile, Bwindi and many others. I am a zoologist and thanks to our amazing guide I was able to see many interesting species - chimpanzees, gorillas, golden monkeys, eagles, elephants, giraffes, antelopes, zebras... the list goes on. The biodiversity is impressive. Local people are unique. Smiling, well-intentioned and very responsive. The program was prepared for us by Sander and gave us the opportunity to see everything. The timing and the organization, I think, could not have been. they are made better. Deep appreciation to George. This guy is truly unique. You can completely trust him for everything. It is really very pleasant and you feel safe with it. He knows absolutely everything about animals, customs... everything. His smile is contagious. :-) I have a lot of experience with this kind of trips and I can say that with these people you can really make an exciting and very memorable trip. If you have decided to travel to Uganda on safari - these are your people.
Email Yann | 35-50 years of age | Experience level: first safari
A Dream Journey Through Rwanda and Uganda
In June 2024, my partner and I embarked on an unforgettable journey through Rwanda and Uganda, meticulously planned and executed by Grassrootz. The trip was seamlessly divided into two parts: a week in Rwanda followed by two weeks in Uganda.
Planning and Preparation
From the outset, Sander from Grassrootz proved to be an invaluable asset. He took the time to understand our preferences and crafted an itinerary that perfectly balanced authenticity and comfort. His recommendations for hotels and lodges were spot-on, each offering a unique blend of local charm and modern amenities. This attention to detail ensured that every night’s stay was as memorable as the day’s adventures.
Exceptional Guide and Unmatched Experiences
Our driver and guide, Barnice, was nothing short of exceptional. His expertise in spotting wildlife during game drives was remarkable—we were thrilled to see the Big 5 and countless other animals. Barnice’s deep knowledge of his country’s wildlife and culture added a rich layer of insight to our journey. His warm, friendly demeanor made us feel welcome and safe throughout the trip.
Highlights and Daily Adventures
Every day brought new wonders, but certain highlights stand out:
- Trek to Dian Fossey's Tomb: A poignant and inspiring experience, connecting us to the legacy of one of the most influential primatologists.
- Gorilla Family in Bwindi: An awe-inspiring encounter with a gorilla family, a moment of profound connection with nature.
- Chimpanzee Tracking in Kibale: The thrill of tracking chimpanzees in their natural habitat was exhilarating and unforgettable.
- Murchison Falls: The sheer power and beauty of the falls left us speechless.
Beyond these standout moments, each day was filled with new animals and stunning landscapes. We also cherished the cultural experiences, especially our visits to the Batwa and Karamajong villages. These interactions provided a deeper understanding of the diverse cultures and traditions of the region.
Safety and Comfort
Throughout the journey, we felt completely safe, thanks to the meticulous planning and the expertise of Barnice. The balance of adventure and comfort was perfectly maintained, making it a truly worry-free experience.
Conclusion
Grassrootz, with Sander’s expert planning and Barnice’s exceptional guidance, turned our dream into reality. This trip was truly the adventure of a lifetime, a tapestry of unforgettable moments and discoveries. We left Rwanda and Uganda with hearts full of gratitude and memories that will last a lifetime. If you’re looking for a travel experience that combines authentic local experiences with unparalleled comfort and safety, Grassrootz is the agency to choose.
NL
Email Desirée | 20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Experience for life
We had a wonderful trip as father, son and daughter. We were able to see a lot of beautiful nature and were especially lucky to see the animals up close. Thanks to his sharp eye and attentiveness, our tour guide Barnice managed to spot many animals for us.
We would definitely recommend this tour company!!
(automatic translation from Dutch)
GN
Email Bernd | 50-65 years of age | Experience level: over 5 safaris
Amazing tour to Bwindi Gorilla area
communications were great, perfect summary of all parts of tour including contacts in advance,
good flights, perfect view to Lake Victoria, all pick ups on time, friendly and experienced driver,
excellent Buhoma Gorilla camp, great service , fantastic room, great food,
perfect Gorilla tracking
value the money!
BG
Email Kalin Kanev | 35-50 years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
A Thrilling Safari Adventure in Uganda
Embarking on a safari in Uganda is a journey into the heart of untamed beauty, where the lush landscapes and diverse wildlife create an unforgettable experience. Our recent safari, guided by Bob, exceeded all expectations, blending the thrill of trekking with the awe-inspiring wonders of the Ugandan wilderness. From the mist-covered mountains of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest to the vast plains of Queen Elizabeth National Park and the lush greenery of Kibale Forest, Uganda's diverse landscapes left an indelible mark on us.
The overall service provided by Grassrootz was excellent and on a very high level. The communication with Sander was very smooth and easy. All the accommodation was perfect, as described in the itinerary and even better. The company is reliable and flexible with clients preferences- duration, places to visit, budget and etc. A very good value for money. We strongly recommend using their services, while travelling in Uganda.
We еspecially want to thank to our guide Bob, who was very friendly and always taking care of us. He was important part of this amazing journey.
From the heart-stopping moments of encountering wildlife in its natural habitat to the serene landscapes that define Uganda, this journey will forever hold a special place in our hearts, a life-changing experience, leaving us with memories that will be cherished for a lifetime.
OM
Email Kathrin Zanchi | 50-65 years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
No need to look further to find the right tour operator
After I contacted 7 tour operators it was very easy to decide for Grassrootz. Sanders promptness in response, his professionalism and tour layouts spoke for themselves. I am a professional tour guide myself and made my expectations quite clear. We did our 21 day tour with BOB MAGEZI. We couldn't have had a better guide. Bob is an excellent driver and guide with a profound knowledge of Uganda and a deep love for all its parks and wildlife. He doesn't hesitate to go the extra mile and if there are special sightings (like leopards or lions) in a park, he will know it. We started as clients and departed as friends and this trip will always have a very special place in our heart. This tour outmatched all our expectations. I strongly recommend to opt for a longer tour option. It is worth the money and will make the trip unforgettable. Sometimes transfers are long and activities are demanding. Having at times the possibility of a half day rest, allows you to recover, appreciate the beautiful settings of the lodges and let the impressions sink in. Like this you don't finish your tour tired and you can enjoy it to the fullest. In 21 days we visited 7 parks; Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary(Rhino safari walk), Kidepo (wonderful game drives), Murchison Falls (wonderful game drives, boat cruises and hiking to the falls), Kibale Forest (crater lake hike, community walk, chimpanzee habituation experience), Queen Elisabeth (including the channel boat cruise, tour with the lion tracking team and Ishasha with its amazing tree climbing lions and leopards!) Bwindi Impenetrable forest (of course with the fantastic Gorilla tracking experience, but also the beautiful Golden Monkey trekking) and we ended the trip at Lake Mburu. We've met some tourists who did the primate tours in Uganda and were then heading off for safaris in Tanzania or Kenia. There is no need to do that. Uganda has blown us away with its beautiful National Parks, full of diversity and overwhelming amount of wildlife. This country has it all. Thank you again Grassrootz (Sander) and Bob!!
BG
Email Rossitsa | 20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
They made me very happy :)
I (a girl) went by myself on my first safari in Africa. Expectedly, I was very worried in terms of safety. Thanks to Grassrootz and my tour guide David, I felt very safe the whole time. Uganda's people are very nice - always smiling and welcoming.
The communication and organization of the trip was easy and quick (we did all in 2 weeks). The whole trip went very smooth and David was punctual the whole time (European punctual). He is a safe driver and I felt very calm and comfortable in the car. He was spotting animals quite well while driving even out of the parks.
All of the lodges were great (I went for mid-range, mostly tented eco camps). Please, note they are in the middle of nowhere so there is only solar power for charging batteries and water is scarce. But this way you feel and appreciate where you are even more. Food was provided by the lodges and it was plenty (not the most delicious but okay and they were trying their best).
During the 7 day trip in Queen Elizabeth, Bwindi and Lake Mburo, we saw:
*Mountain Gorillas (my main purpose of the safari)
*Baboons
*Colobus monkeys
*Blue monkeys
*Chimpanzees
*Grey-cheeked Mangabey
*Red-tailed monkeys
*Vervet monkeys
*Lions (twice - once on a cactus and once on trees)
*Elephants
*Uganda Kobs
*Warthogs (Pumbaa) - they are so funny
*Giant Hogs
*Red-river Hogs
*Waterbucks
*Bushbucks in two parks
*Eland antelopes
*Impalas
*Topis
*Buffalos
*Giraffes
*Zebras
*Nile Crocodiles
*Three-horned chameleon
*Mangoose
*Hippopotamus
*lots of pretty and ugly birds of all sizes
Probably I am forgetting something...
We didn't find hyenas and leopards but nature is not a zoo so it is due to luck sometimes (David tried really hard to find leopards for me). Actually none of the tourist I met have seen leopard, and just one saw hyenas on the road.
I highly recommend Grassrootz. Just be very clear what you want and expect and they will make it happen. I'm glad David was my tour guide and now I would say my friend.
US
Email JLP | 65+ years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
Wonderful Pearl of Africa 10 nt. tour
We (2 seniors and adult son) had a great time in Uganda. Booking our personalized itinerary with Sander via emails was easy. Both the deposit and final payment could be paid by credit card. Our mid-range lodges and food were all excellent. Our guide Bob was knowledgeable, helpful, a safe driver, and could even predict the weather!
The whole trip went like clockwork. We saw all the wildlife we imagined, and were able to walk among some of them, including rhinos and giraffes. The primate treks were strenuous, but not to be missed. All the people we met were warm and welcoming. Thanks to Grassrootz and Bob for an unforgettable time in beautiful Uganda.
BE
Email Eric, Diane, Bastiaan and Wendela | 50-65 years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
Our 11-day Grassrootz trip through Uganda was amazing.
An experience that we will remember for a long time. Everything was very good organized and our driver / personal guide, Bob took very good care of us. Not only a very good driver, he also knew a lot of information about his country and all the animals and plants and flowers. He always arranged good guides in the parks we visit and we saw the Chimpanzees, Lions, Leopards, Gorillas, Hippos, Crocodiles, Elephants, Zebras, Giraffes, etc. We will definitely are going back to Uganda and we will plan our trip through Grassrootz.
