AMS Directors and Tour Guides
Amazing Memories Safaris
- Located In:
- Size:
- 5-10 employees (Founded in 2012)
- Member Of:
- ASTA, KATO, AMREF & Eco Tourism
- Tour Types:
- Custom mid-range & luxury tours that can start every day
- Destinations:
- Price Range:
- $130 to $500 per person per day (USD, excl. int'l flights)
Reviews
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Email Tom | 50-65 years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
A well organized safari with many highlights
After an earlier safari trip I wanted to show my daughters (19 and 21) the wild animals of Africa.
Amazing Memories Safaris was an excellent choice for the tour! We have 8 days and 7 nights and Anne put together a good itinerary with advise on parks and lodges. Due to heavy traffic on the roads the transport between parks took longer than expected and was a bit exhausting. But that was soon forgotten when we had a lot of wildlife including all Big 5 close up to our car. We had chosen to have a private Landcruiser to ourselves and that was a well spent luxury.
Favorite park: Amboseli National Park.
Favorite lodge: Naivasha Sopa Lodge.
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Email Zack | 20-35 years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
Very exciting 12-day, 2-person private safari in Kenya and Tanzania
We booked with Amazing Memories for our trip to east Africa. Our 12-day itinerary was: Nairobi, Nakuru, Maasai Mara, Serengeti, Ngorngoro Crater, then Amboseli. Dennis from the company was waiting for us when we arrived at night in Nairobi and led us to Daniel, who was our driver the whole time we were in Kenya. Daniel was a good driver/guide and had a good eye for photography, which I appreciated since I wanted to take a lot of pictures. Examples would be him positioning us so that we had a good angle on the animals, instead of just getting us as close as possible. Or when there was water, stopping in a place where we could get a cool reflection. In Kenya we were in a large van with a popup roof, which worked well. There was plenty of room for the two of us to stand on the game drives. The van came stocked with a lot of bottled water.
Our driver in Tanzania was Donald, who was also very nice and did a great job of finding a lot of animals in Serengeti. We were in a pop-top Land Cruiser, which was more comfortable to sit in and drive around in, but not as good to stand in while moving because the top opening was narrower than the van. The seats were also higher, so it was harder to look out the windows. But the vehicle was still perfectly good for game drives; we'd just sit until we got to the animals instead of standing the whole time.
Communication was all via email with Anne and was a little delayed at times, but overall was fine. She did a good job answering all my emails and sent an informative PDF with details about east Africa, like the money and climate and things like that.
One (very minor) negative from the trip was that the border crossings were confused. They still worked out fine and ended up being quick (30 mins for one and maybe 60 for the other), but especially when we went from Tanzania back into Kenya through Namanga no one seemed to know what the process was or where we should go. But they got it figured out in 30 minutes or so and then it all worked out fine. It sounds like the process is ever-changing, so some of this is to be expected, but it was still a little weird to just sit in the car while our driver tracked someone down to figure out where we needed to go.
One other general comment: The roads in east Africa are not good. A lot of them are dirt and very bumpy (especially the drive into Maasai Mara, which is at least in the process of getting paved), so if you get carsick, you might want to take some medicine. It's also very dusty, so everything you take will get covered in a layer of dirt.
The parks:
We're glad we went to all the parks that we did. At Nakuru we saw 9 rhinos and only saw 1 the rest of the trip, and from far away. We also stopped by Lake Naivasha on the drive to Maasai Mara to go on a boat ride, which was pretty cool since it was different than the drives. In the Mara we didn't see much one day, but the other day, saw at cheetah and least a dozen lion, four of them in a tree. Serengeti was the best park for us. We saw multiple trees with lions in them, including one tree with seven. We also saw a few huge herds (1000+) of zebras and wildebeest and a couple cheetahs. The landscape was huge, wide, and open, which was good to see large groups of animals. In Ngorongoro there were lots of animals everywhere and we saw a few lions as well as a black rhino. We didn't see many animals in Amboseli (though still did see a family of lions), but did have a good (but brief) view of Kilimanjaro, which was only out of the clouds for about 45 minutes right after sunrise.
The camps:
We enjoyed all the camps in which we stayed. Nairobi: Sarova Stanley, very nice hotel and room and very good breakfast. Nakuru: Flamingo Hill, nice tent room, could walk along the fence and see zebra, baboons, and buffalo. Maasai Mara: Ashnil Mara, very big grounds, but really nice tent room with a nice shower and toilet, room was right by the river so we could hear the hippos, buffet-style meals; also had a great souvenir shop with great prices. Serengeti: Kati Kati, small tented camp right in the Serengeti (no fences) which was really cool to be so close to the animals and nature, saw some giraffes and heard hyenas at night, very nice staff. Ngorongoro: Serena Ngorongoro, nice hotel with great views of the crater, very refreshing to have an actual hotel instead of a tented camp for a night, good food. Amboseli: Ol Tukai Lodge, great location right in the middle of the park, nice bungalows with good bathroom, fun to watch animals just outside the fence; would recommend the elephant view rooms because Kilimanjaro was in the clouds 23 out of 24 hours of the day, but mountain rooms could be good if you know it will be clear; also had a very good gift shop.
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Email Alice | 50-65 years of age | Experience level: over 5 safaris
Amazing Memorable Safari
Our safari was organized by Anne of Amazing Safaris. this company lived up to it's name. The booking process was smooth and easy. Days 28th February to 8th March were full of adventure. The drives were long and some very bumpy especially to the Mara but remember its a wildlife safari. This didn't stop us from having fun, there is a lot to see on these drives. Beauty of nature in Kenya is unmatched.It's surprises everywhere one goes. Our driver and guide John was extremely knowledgeable about animals and their behaviour. He had a good sense of humour and we laughed a lot.
For a pleasurable, smooth and truly memorable experience, I highly recommend Amazing Memories Safari to you. They will not let you down.
AE
Email Mike | 20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Ultimate bucket list trip - Amazing Safari with Amazing Memories
After receiving quotes from other safari operators, We decided to choose Amazing Memories Safari's and I am happy to say we wasn't disappointed. We did a 2 night/3 day safari staying at the Keekorok Lodge which was a fantastic Hotel inside the Mara. We were picked up from our hotel in Nairobi by our driver/guide Dan who was very knowledgable and knew the best places to spot the big 5. We were also lucky enough to see a Cheetah hunt and kill an Impala right in front of our eyes. We also decided to include an early morning Hot Air Ballon ride over the park which was incredible. We even managed to fit in a trip to Lake Navaisha on the final day back to Nairobi. Anne impressed with her efficiency and made the whole booking process very easy, from first contact through to payment. I can highly recommend Amazing Memories Safaris.
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Email Laurena | 65+ years of age | Experience level: over 5 safaris
Another fantastic experience with Amazing Memories Safaris
Amazing Memories Safaris has become to me like an extension of my family (all positive). Anne and Joseph are a wonderful couple whose skills complement each other to make sure no detail is missed. I had such a pleasant experience with them in March, 2017 that there was no question about choosing them again and no need to get additional quotes because their pricing is very fair.
Even though this was my eighth trip to Kenya, there are always a few questions that come up. Anne is prompt to respond with the answers. I had chosen my own itinerary and lodging for this trip. But we got a big curve ball the day before I was to leave the states. Anne notified me that the camp where I was to stay five nights (Offbeat Mara - where I stayed last year) had been flooded and they told her I would have to find other accommodations. Anne immediately sent me an email to let me know. I felt a panic. She suggested two other places for me to consider that were comparable prices. I looked at their reviews, got back to her with my choice, and she immediately confirmed my new lodging. Offbeat had a special offer of getting one night free when paying for three. Unfortunately, Eagle View did not offer this. When the change was made, Anne informed me that Amazing Memories would take care of that added cost. Thanks to her quick action, it all worked out.
On arrival into Nairobi, Anne, Joseph, and another Joseph (my Nairobi guide) were there to greet me with big hugs and smiles. After the long flights and the late hour, it is so nice to see such welcoming people waiting. The trip to the Fairview Hotel was short and they made sure everything was perfect on check in. We discussed my arrangements for the next day for my pick up time by Joseph in order to do some shopping and visit my elephants at the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust both for the 11am public visit as well at the adoptive parent visit at 5pm.
After the evening elephant visit, Joseph and I met Anne and Joseph at the Carnivore restaurant where I was treated to a lovely dinner and great conversation. Such a special time.
Joseph N., my Nairobi guide, that I first met in 2014, is amazing at navigating the traffic in Nairobi. His pleasant personality and sense of humor go a long way to making you feel at home.
Communication with the camps was perfect. On arrival, they all knew I preferred a tent with a full size bed and what my dietary requirements were.
As a photographer, my guide Daniel, who I have traveled with 4 times, is a real gem. He is an excellent spotter, even in challenging situations. As a photographer himself, he knows how to position the vehicle to get the best shots. He's a great conversationalist, and always fun to travel with.
When arriving back into Wilson from Meru, I changed airlines. Joseph, my Nairobi driver, was waiting for me to assist with the transfer. There was a three layover between the flights so I was taken to Aero Club to enjoy lunch. The food there was very good.
On my final day in Kenya, Anne met me at Wilson after my flight from the Mara, with driver Joseph. She wanted to know how everything went, especially at Eagle View which was not my initial choice. All went fantastic. She was also able to extend the Eka hotel regular day room check out time from 6pm to 7:30pm which really was nice and gave me time to repack and have some food before I was taken to the airport for my midnight flight.
I can't say enough good things about Amazing Memories Safaris. They are extremely professional, going above and beyond to make sure every part of your trip expectations are met perfectly. They are much more than a tour operator. Their warm, welcoming hospitality is yet another reason why I return to Kenya over and over.
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Email photoguy | 65+ years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
Amazing Memories Safaris treated me very well!
I chose Amazing Memories Safaris for my second trip to Kenya. Planning began with Anne in mid-2017 less than a year after I returned from my first Kenya safari which had been arranged with another tour operator. Anne was very helpful and responsive in the planning process and by August I had a contract in hand and had paid a deposit for a safari scheduled for this month, Feb. 2018.
Unfortunately, I encountered serious health complications in the fall of 2017 and eventually had to cancel this trip. I let Anne know of this possibility in Dec. but by this time payments had been made for lodging in Samburu and at Offbeat Mara plus a flight from Nairobi to the Mara. But Anne was able to get a refund from Offbeat Mara, so both are to be commended for their wonderful customer service.
Even though I was unable to make this trip, my financial losses were greatly reduced by the above mentioned refund and redeposit of my airline miles and a refund of airline fees paid to United. I expect an additional small refund from my trip insurance claim.
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This review is the subjective opinion of a TripAdvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
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Email Tina | 50-65 years of age | Experience level: first safari
12-Day Safari in Kenia and Tanzania plus 3 Days Zanzibar
The trip was truly amazing and I would recommend AMAZING MEMORIES SAFARIS (AMS) without reservation.
I found the company's name on the website and was intrigued by its strong reviews. I did more research and obtained quotes from 2 other providers, but they could not beat the price offered by AMS.
My husband and I booked a tour that we found on the website of AMS (the "honeymoon" tour), but customised it a bit with Anne's help, covering Amboseli, Lake Naivasha, Maasai Mara, Serengeti, Ngorongoro, and Zanzibar. We corresponded with Anne exclusively via email which was easy and productive, because her responses were always prompt and very clear. Anne also picked us up from the airport in Nairobi, and her colleagues delivered two heavy suitcases to us for the return flight, which we didn't need for the safari and were able to store in the office. That was super helpful!!
The tour itself was truly amazing. We saw so many animals and were able to take spectacular pictures thanks mainly to our great guides/drivers, Kennedy in Kenia and Ikamba in Tanzania. They were great in pointing out animals at far distances which we would have never seen without them, and both were very professional and likeable at the same time.
We were also very happy with our itinerary--though if you hate long drives, I would probably stick with either Kenia or Tanzania instead of going to both.
As to the accommodations, most of the hotels and lodges (Eka hotel in Nairobi, Kibo Safari Camp in Amboseli, Mara Sopa Lodge in Maasai Mara, and Next Paradise in Zanzibar) were very comfortable with excellent food, and we really liked the experience of the tented camps in the Serengeti (Katikati and Ang'ata). Only the Crescent Camp in Lake Naivasha and (to some extent) the Rhino Lodge in Ngorongoro were a bit in need of repair, but we only spent one night in each--so it was ok.
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Email Jenny Davis | 35-50 years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
Fantastically efficient from the planning right through to the safari experience, highly recommend!
After emailing a few other safari operators, Anne at Amazing Memories impressed me with her efficiency and ability to organise a trip suitable within my specified budget for 2 adults & our two teenage boys. On arrival at Nairobi we were met by Anne & Joseph and met our safari driver/guide Daniel. We had the most fantastic week , early mornings, very long journeys sometimes on very bumpy roads but worth it all to see the wildlife in 5 national parks/reserves, Masai Mara being our favourite followed by 1 night at Lake Navaisha (a unique experience not to be missed) All the lodges/tented camps were of a high quality as was the food! Daniel was an excellent driver/guide and ensured we saw the big 5 which we were lucky to see in the first couple of days! We were sad to leave him in Mombasa after our adventures together. I can highly recommend this company, fantastic from the planning stage, booking process and during our trip!
https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserReviews-g294207-d10755751-r550873858-Amazing_Memories_Safaris-Nairobi.html#
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Email Lauren | 35-50 years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
Amazing safari with Amazing Memories
Our family of 4 is recently back from an amazing 11 night safari in Kenya and Tanzania with Amazing Memories. Almost a year before our trip I began emailing safari companies for quotes and Anne was always quick to respond to my seemingly millions of questions. I had a very clear idea of where I wanted to go, stay and do and Anne was very accommodating at making that happen. Also, her quote was very attractive compared to some other companies. Anne was extremely helpful in the planning stages and always took the time to answer all of my questions.
Upon arrival in Kenya we were warmly greeted by Anne, Joseph and our guide/driver Daniel. After a quick nights sleep we were off on our adventure. Our trip of a lifetime included 2 nights at Kibo safari Camp in Amboseli, 1 night at Meru View Lodge in Arusha national park, 2 nights at Maramboi tented camp in Tarangire, 3 nights at KubuKubu tented camp in Serengeti, 2 nights at Rhino lodge in Ngoronogo National park, and 1 night a Rift photographic Lodge in Lake Manyara. Our guide/drivers Daniel and then Donald, were professional, friendly and always working to ensure we were happy. We were very happy with both Daniel and Donald. There were one or 2 small mix ups while on safari but Anne was always just a quick phone call away working hard to make everything right. We were very pleased we chose Amazing Memories for our safari company and would not hesitate to refer them. I realize the process of choosing a safari company can be exhausting, and I can say that you should choose Amazing Memories and be confident you will be getting the best price and the best service. Additionally, everything about our safari was fabulous from the animals we saw (everything and so close and so often) to the accommodations which in most cases exceeded my expectations. Book your safari with Amazing Memories...you will be so happy you did!
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Email Mandy | 20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Our safari was the trip of a lifetime!
There are no words to describe how absolutely perfect our Amazing Memories safari was! If you are considering planning a trip to Kenya and/or Tanzania, don’t wait any longer and just go!
My husband and I weren’t sure exactly what we wanted from our trip in our first email to Anne, but she responded so quickly and was able to guide us through the planning process seamlessly. Her communications were clear, and she asked all of the right questions to plan the most incredible 12 days in Kenya and Tanzania for us. When we landed in Kenya, we felt as though we had a friend there already.
Anne was also proactive about changing one of our hotels (in Nairobi) because she had been tracking the reviews and saw that they weren’t great. She switched our hotel to the Sarova Panafric, which turned out to be an awesome place. Doing this proactively shows how much the Amazing Memories team truly wants you to have the perfect trip.
Our trip took us to Nairobi, Lake Nakuru, Masai Mara, Serengeti, Ngorogoro Crater, Amboseli, and ended with an all inclusive stay in Diani Beach. We even took an impromptu stop at Lake Navaisha for a boat trip to see hippos from the water. Each place was fantastic in its own unique way.
We would be remiss if we didn’t point out our guides, Daniel (in Kenya) and Charles (in Tanzania), who were pivotal in making our safari one to remember. With our trip spent mostly in Kenya, most of our time was with Daniel. He is a true professional and is passionate about the animals. It’s so refreshing to be around someone who loves his job as much as Daniel - the excitement is contagious. He is a wealth of knowledge, and we learned so much from him. Daniel is also friends with many of the other guides and talks to them over the radio to get you to the best animal sightings. On our very first day in the Masai Mara, we saw all of the Big 5... before lunch!
We saw so many animals - hundreds of elephants, giraffes, thousands of wildebeests and zebras, lions (including a sighting of 18 lionesses and cubs at once!), both black and white rhinos, cheetahs, hyenas, vultures, baboons, hundreds of hippos, tons of different kinds of birds, a tortoise, crocodiles, etc! We were even talking to a woman at breakfast who was in another tour group on her fourth safari, and she hadn’t ever seen a leopard on safari - we saw THREE during our trip with Amazing Memories!
I could go on and on about how breathtaking these two countries were and how awesome the people are with Amazing Memories and the camps that they partner with! Amazing Memories isn’t just a catchy name. It’s what you leave Africa with!