Our Head Guide Nico and our Signature Hot Lunches
Unlimited Expeditions: The Soul of Tanzania
- Office In:
- Size:
- 10-20 employees (Founded in 2015)
- Tour Types:
- Custom mid-range & luxury tours that can start every day
- Destinations:
- Price Range:
- $150 to $400 per person per day (USD, excl. int'l flights)
for a custom tour
Your request will be sent directly to the operator
If preferred, you can contact the operator directly
Reviews
Email Catherine | 65+ years of age | Experience level: over 5 safaris
Best tour operator in Arusha
Soul of Tanzania must be the best tour company based in Arusha. I contacted them over 4 years ago and Jose was our coordinator. He responded almost immediately to all my enquiries and we formulated a 13 day safari that proved to be way beyond our expectations. Unfortunately Covid and a family wedding meant that the trip was delayed for so long.
If you’re thinking of booking with them do not be afraid to wire money to the company, they held our considerable deposit for over three years and assured us it would be ok. Jose was always able to reassure and rebook all the accommodation near the time.
Flying into East Africa from London we decided to fly to Nairobi and spend a night at an airport hotel. As there were 4 of us, me, husband and two adult sons I opted to do a road transfer to Arusha. Jose had organised a pickup with the Kenyan sister part of Soul of Tanzania. The driver was right on time for the interesting journey to the border at Namanga where they changed drivers. What a difference between Kenya and Tanzania, we were glad to leave the overpopulated, refuse strewn and terrible roads in Kenya and enter Tanzania with its great infrastructure and happy friendly people.
We spent two nights at the Hatari Lodge in Arusha Game Park just relaxing and watching the wildlife that passed by the decking. Our driver returned to pick us up to take us into Arusha for a transfer to our safari vehicle and guide, Wilson.
Wilson has been a guide for over 20 years and obviously respected by all the other guides and people at the different lodges and camps we stayed in. He was so knowledgeable in everything, not only all the game and birds but plants, trees and geology. He instinctively knew where we would find the elusive Rhino and we witnessed the exceptionally rare sight of two Leopards in adjoining trees in a stand off with a Lion. Wilson also had a great sense of humour that fitted in with all our requests and laughter. I think he got the measure of us when we asked to stop at a supermarket to stock up on beers to accompany the wine and hot food served at our lunch stops where he found less busy places with beautifully clean toilets.
We spent two days in Tarangeri National Park with its huge herds of elephants and buffalo and nearly all the big 5 game. Two nights in Lake Manyara Game Park which is set between the Great Rift Escarpment and the lake with its lush dense forests and is a bird lover’s paradise. One night on the rim of the Ngorongoro Crater after spending the afternoon in the Crater which was amazing. Three nights in Central Serengeti with its vast open plains with ribbons of rivers that attracted huge herds of Hypo’s. Our last three night were spent at the Acacia Migration Camp. We were about one week to early to witness a Mara River crossing but we did see the the amazing sight of thousands of Zebra and Wildebeest in the Great Migration. On our last full day we were up very early to see the African dawn, don’t miss it, it’s so beautiful. We also sat in chairs right next to the migration for nearly two hours drinking the last of our beers. What a fantastic end to our safari.
Our last day Wilson took us to Kogatende air strip for the flight back to Arusha and onward road transfer to Nairobi airport.
This was undoubtedly the best holiday we have ever had, yes we did see the Big 5 game but it was just a part of all the wonderful experiences we encountered. I would like to thank Jose for all his help in organising it. Also a special thanks to Wilson who made each day special in different ways. Asante Sana
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Email Grant | 50-65 years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
Trip of a lifetime with service that exceeded expectations. WOW
We received three quotes as suggested and went with soul of Tanzania because of the prompt responses from Sandy. The trip was arranged and went off without a hitch. Our guide Walter was outstanding and delivered the big five many times over. The accommodations and food were great. We did the 8 day Serengeti Safari with Zanzibar beach extension. The three nights at Nugwi Dreams was the perfect way to unwind before our trip home. We went as a group of five and all left with a deeper appreciation of Tanzania and its culture. We would definitely suggest a trip with SOT and Walter to our friends and family.
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Email Ryan | 35-50 years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
Reliable and friendly!
Soul of Tanzania is an excellent company. Our trip was very well-planned and our guide, Eli, was terrific. He went out of his way to find animals and make our experience unforgettable. I would recommend this company without reservation to anyone wondering which of the many companies to contract for your safari.
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Email Jordan Brothers | 20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Best Experience Of My Life
My husband and I booked a 5 day safari and 4 days in Zanzibar with Exclusive African Safari and I can not express how life changing and absolutely wonderful our trip was. Marta communicated with me promptly for over a year while planning this trip. Each time we were transferred from one lodge to another or from the airport our drivers were on time and so friendly. I was never worried about being late to anything and never had any stress about our trip. We were always well taken care of and had access to water and food. Our Guide Stanley was and still is without a doubt the best guide in Tanzania. Professional, welcoming, knowledgeable and genuine are a few words that describe who he is as a person. Stanley is now one of our life long friends. My husband and I will certainly be visiting Tanzania again and will only be under the guidance of Stanley. He knows the national parks like the back of his hand and can navigate them efficiently to ensure that you experience each park to the fullest. He is very receptive of your desires and will do all in his power to get you in the right place at the right time in order to enjoy the wildlife. Stanley has a passion for the country, the profession, the animals, and the experiences for his guests. If you are ever having doubts about going on safari because you are unsure about who your guide will be, please reach out to Exclusive African Safari regarding Stanley. I promise you will not be disappointed, you may even make a fried like we did :)
PT
Email Sara M | 35-50 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Once in a lifetime experience
Great service from the first moment. SOT came recomended from friends and we would most gladly do the same and highly recomend it.
Jose C our journey designer was always helpful and guided us putting together our safari days and also our pre safari stay in Zanzibar.
Thank you to Jose for the patience throughout our decision making, doubts and alterations;)
All worked out well, transfers and pick up drop off timings always on schedule.
We would also highly recommend our guide, Peter.
The game drives were spectacular we were able to see 4 of the big five (no Leopard unfortunately). Peter was fantastic, very easy going/hakuna matata and answering all our ‘very good questions’;)
He was an amazing company throughout the 3 days and a precious part of our experience telling us all about the areas animals and local culture.
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Email Heather | 35-50 years of age | Experience level: first safari
A dream come true!
Soul of Tanzania delivered a perfect and unforgettable “trip of a lifetime” for us. I have been dreaming of going on safari in the Serengeti since I was a little girl and had very high expectations for this trip, all of which were exceeded. Soul of Tanzania quickly stood out as the company we should book with because they had prompt replies, a friendly demeanor, and higher level of customer service and detail than any of the other companies we were in communication with.
Our journey designer, Marta, was incredibly patient with us while crafting the vacation of our dreams and answering all our questions. To say I’m a planner is an understatement… our first contact with SOT was well over 18 months before our actual trip and Marta honestly must have answered a million questions!
We decided on a one-week northern circuit safari with a beach extension in Zanzibar. We started in Tarangire, went to the Serengeti next, and ended at the Ngorongoro Crater. Our guide, Francis, was a perfect fit for us, and did everything he could to ensure we were having a great time and were well taken care of. He is personable, cheerful, and very knowledgeable. It was clear he genuinely loves his job and was committed to making the trip special for us. Each morning we would be greeted with a high-five or a hug, and at the end of day he would review the plan for the following day so we would know what to expect. As someone who normally coordinates vacations and trips, I felt completely at ease and confident in Francis handling all the logistics once we arrived and was able to completely relax and unplug without worrying about anything. The sights were beautiful, the animals were abundant, and the entire experience was like a dream.
The accommodations we selected for the trip were all incredible and top notch! Arusha Villa Karamu Coffee Estate, Tarangire Nimali Camp, Melia Serengeti, Karibu Lions Paw, and Melia Zanzibar.
THANK YOU, FRANCIS AND MARTA!!! We are forever grateful to you both and look forward to our paths crossing again in the future.
Heather + Ben
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Email Sharon | 20-35 years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
Amazing 5 days
When planning for our Africa trip we read about Soul of Tanzania online and really liked the details they’d provided for their tours. We got in touch with them and our Journey Designer, Hugo replied super promptly.
Hugo took all our details to ensure that things were smooth for us from when we land to when we take off. He also helped customise the trip for us including the hot air balloon ride. The planning stage was great - Hugo gave us the best price and also gave us all the hotel booking confirmations as soon as he booked them!
When we arrived in Tanzania everything was smooth. Our picks ups from and to the airport were prompt and I appreciate how they reached almost half an hour in advance.
Our safari guide Francis was amazing - he made sure to show us everything we wanted to see. He understood that we were okay with waking up super early to maximise the day, and made sure to be there promptly. He had a lot of information about animals as well and we felt really comfortable with him! He asked around to ensure that we’d see a leopard and drove us out to see the migration as well! He planned for all the safaris really well making sure to maximise our permits!
On our last day back to Arusha he took us to the best spots to buy souvenirs as well! Everyone should ask for Francis as he made the safari super enjoyable for us.
One of us had an early morning flight and we were worried as no cab details were given to us, but Francis completely handled that and we felt assured that the pick ups would arrive on time - and they did!
Our safari meals were great - hot food and great local wine. The lunchboxes were also a great way for us to sit by animals and have a meal. This helped us especially when we were waiting by the leopard hoping for it to move - by the time we had lunch the leopard moved around helping us take great photos!
Each stay was great as well - we stayed at Kilimamoja, Nimali, and Karibu Lions Paw. Each place took special care of our dietary restrictions which Soul of Tanzania had already communicated. They took care of our very early wake up calls as well.
Special call out to Nimali Serengeti though - the staff there made us feel like home! Carlie felt like a friend, and their chef Walkin was brilliant. Peter took care of us really well as well - and didn’t hesitate when we asked for a super early 4am wake up call! We met their head safari guide and he was super knowledgable and experienced too!
When we got back to our room the second day all our laundry was ready and folded and we were so grateful that we didn’t have to remind them. Would definitely recommend Nimali to everyone for the great dinner, service, and location!
Kilimamoja had the best breakfast hands down - and their chef made sure to introduce us to local delicacies as well. The lunchbox they prepared for us was the best too! Special call out to Zechariah, for arranging everything so wonderfully and taking custom orders for our lunchbox!
Would definitely recommend Karibu Lions Paw for anyone visiting Ngorongoro as the proximity is amazing!
The hot air balloon company - Serengeti balloon safaris - was great as well. We had to reach super early in the morning but they were ready for us with ginger coffee! The ride itself was really smooth as was take off and landing! Our pilot Jonathan showed us animals from the ride as well and he took the best route giving us the best visibility. We even saw a serval cat hunting! The breakfast after was surreal - to be eating with giraffe walking around in front of you!
Really appreciate how Soul of Tanzania picked such wonderful choices for us, how prompt they were on ground, and how great their guide Francis was! Once we landed in Tanzania we didn’t have to worry about anything - they took care of everything in the best way!
Id def recommend Soul of Tanzania to all my friends!
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Email Harry | 35-50 years of age | Experience level: first safari
An Amazing First Trip to Eastern Africa
My wife and I spent ~2 amazing weeks in Kenya & Tanzania and it was made all the better by Soul of Tanzania. We worked with Marta over e-mail and she was helpful in helping us craft an itinerary molded from their "6-day Kenya-Tanzania itinerary" which included Masai Mara, Serengeti NP and Ngorongoro crater, and we added on 4 nights in Zanzibar. Marta was incredibly patient and helpful in answering all of my questions (we exchanged 97 emails when all was said and done!), and she even helped make recommendations.
We flew into Nairobi and left early via land cruiser to Masai Mara, which ended up a being a 5-hour bumpy ride (a theme throughout the safari). The park was amazing and our guide in Kenya, Erastas, was very friendly, although the one con is that he often drove by tons of animals focused on finding lions and a leopard - this is probably common as not many people want to stop for zebras and birds. We were in awe of all the animals and had to ask him to stop a lot. We spent two nights at the Ilkelani Camp which we highly recommend. It's glamping in a canvas tent with great amenities, delicious food, and very friendly staff. We managed to see four of the big five, including catching a leopard hanging out mere feet from the camp entrance.
Following our two nights we made the 5-hour drive to the Tanzania border crossing into the Serengeti. Our guide in Tanzania, Habibu, was also nice though it took him a little longer to warm up. He often waited for us to let him know when to move onto the next animal, which was a change of pace from our first guide. Our next two nights were spent at Melia Serengeti which was beautiful, with sweeping views of the Serengeti. The food was plentiful, and the infinity pool was a nice amenity to take a dip in.
After our two nights there, we made the long drive to Ngorongoro Crater and stayed at the Ngorongroro lodge, and the view from our room was worth the 5-hour drive. Possibly the best view of our lives, and we were lucky enough to spot a rhino on the morning drive through the crater. The temperature dropped in the crater, so bring layers to stay warm.
We left for the 4-hour drive to Kilimanjaro Airport and experienced car trouble. First we stopped at a mechanic for about 30 minutes for an engine-related issue and then a tire blew out while driving down the highway. A fellow tour guide stopped to help our guide change the tire. These weren't our guide's fault but a sign that the company should upgrade the vehicles, which seemed to be from the 1990s or early 2000s.
We flew to Zanzibar where we spent a night in Stone Town, and did a walking tour of the city the next morning. Highly recommended to get the history of Stone Town. We had booked our own flights between mainland Tanzania and Zanzibar, but Soul of Tanzania can do that for you. TIP: do not use Air Tanzania. They are consistently delayed, cancelled one of our flights, didn't communicate, and have a buggy website.
We ended our vacay with 3 nights at Kilindi Zanzibar which was simply magical. Individual private and secluded Mediterranean style villas with multiple pools, outdoor washrooms and lounge areas, and a bedroom opening up to a pool and a great view of the water. The staff was amazing, the amenities plentiful, and another great infinity pool in the main area. The food was great as well.
Soul of Tanzania was a wonderful organizer for everything and made this the trip of a lifetime. We highly recommend them.
PROS: communicative, willing to work with your needs, make good recommendations for inclusions, guides are knowledgeable and kind.
CONS: the land cruisers could use a little bit of love and updating. They were worn and it was noticeable.
TIPS: We didn't know about the options to fly into the parks and that would have saved us some aches and time spent driving between parks, although the drives our of the park were game drives. It would have been helpful if Soul of Tanzania had made us aware that we could fly from Nairobi to Masai Mara, and Masai Mara to Serengeti. Do not skip out on Ngorongoro Crater - it was my favorite of the three parks for the varied landscape and the views.
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Email Daniel, Andrea, and Bibi | 35-50 years of age | Experience level: first safari
The trip of my dreams...
The trip was amazing from start to finish. I travelled with my wife and grandmother. We did 10 days and 4 of Tanzania's national parks: Tarangire, Ngorongoro, Serengeti, and Lake Manyara. I don't think there is an animal, native to Tanzania, that we didn't see! We had an amazing driver, Cleopa, who took care of anything and everything we needed or wanted all along the way. I especially appreciate how great Cleopa was with my wife and my Bibi (grandmother in Swahili) since they are my treasures.
Everyday was a new adventure as we ventured further and further into the parks. It felt like we could just order any animal we wanted off of the menu and Cleopa would find it for us. No joke! We saw the big 5, the ugly 5, and everything in-between. Cleopa provided us with great information about the animals we came across and it truly felt like we were part of a national geographic expedition. Creating our own documentary along the way.
Our vehicle was super clean and spacious, I loved the pop up roof which allowed for an elevated position better suited for taking in the breathtaking scenery and of course, spotting animals! They keep a refrigerated cooler on board stocked with lots of water and whatever drinks you ask for. Lunch was always provided and more than enough.
We will be telling all of our friends and family how wonderful Cleopa and Soul of Tanzania took care of us. Thank you for making this one of the most amazing trips I have ever had!
IT
Email Piero | 35-50 years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
Smooth, fantastic safari for a family with children
Here’s a feedback from our experience: everything has exceeded our expectations!
Let’s start with our tour operator Marta: she patiently answered a million questions and tailored our 6 days safari exactly on the needs of our family (2 daughters: 10 and 7 y.o.).
Our tour guide Emanueli was passionate, full of patience when dealing with the delayed times of a family with children. He not only guided us, he literally took every care of us. His skill in spotting animals and plants and his knowledge in the explanation of details was superb.
The lodges and camps offered excellent service, we are equally very satisfied with the Rhino Lodge and Acacia Serengeti Central, among others. The Acacia Farm in Karatu is of another planet… we especially appreciated the visit to the coffee farm and all the organic fruits and vegetables.
We’ve all been EXTREMELY impressed by the level of hygiene everywhere, not only at the lodges, but also in the public pic-nic sites. Chapeau!
The food was super fine in all cases.
We will be passionate ambassadors for this amazing Country and of course for SoT.
Asante sana from a very happy family!
Piero
