Asseri the founder with clients at Ngorongoro
Orongai Africa Safari
- Located In:
- Size:
- 5-10 employees (Founded in 2013)
- Member Of:
- Tanzania Tourist Board
- Tour Types:
- Custom mid-range & luxury tours that can start every day
- Destinations:
- Price Range:
- $145 to $750 per person per day (USD, excl. int'l flights)
Reviews
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Email Fernandi Victor | 35-50 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Best honeymoon we could ever have imagined
Orongai nafrica safaris helped us organise a personalised safari for our honeymoon which included the great migration and the big five. As it was our first safari and a special ocasion, we had many uncertaininties and questions when we started the booking. From the very beginning Orongai nafrica safaris´s sales team (Annas) were very attentive, informative and provided their best recommendations to make our honeymoon special. All the process went smoothly.
During the safari days we were lucky to have the best possible person to be our guide/driver. Azaria is a kind person, patient and with a strong passion to make the experience enjoyable for the guests. He is not just a very knowledgable guide, but also a fantastic driver and a great person. Azaria has a great eye to spot the animals, but also would always ask us how we were feeling in order to adapt the journey to our needs. It was great to see that so many other guides as well as park researchers would come to Azaria for tips and advice too. It really made us think he is "the man" hahaha. Also was nice to see how he stopped his journey to get down in the mud to help another driver whose car got stuck.
The trip organised by Orongai nafrica safaris was amazing. Our itinerary was very well planned with enough time to see the animals, the 3 main parks, amazing sun rise and sun sets and always staying in very comfortable and clean accomodations with surprisingly good food.
All in all we could not recommend more Orongai nafrica safaris and especially would also want to thank to our great guide Azaria for making our honeymoon really special.
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Email Bernod George | 35-50 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Orongai africa safari and Wilson = amazing wildlife encounters!
I just completed a 7-day safari in Tanzania with Orongai Africa safari - I highly recommend this company! This was my seventh trip to Africa and was definitely one of the most memorable.
Our guide, Wilson, was extremely knowledgeable, and taught us a great deal about not only the wildlife, but also Tanzanian culture.
All staff at our lodges/campsites were very kind and helpful; they would go out of their way to accommodate our requests.
I especially enjoyed the Acacia camps, as they were situated within the parks, and made us feel at one with the wild! The manager of the Acacia Migration camp, Hassan, was very funny, and his positive energy flowed throughout the camp.
The beds and pillows each night were super comfy, and the showers were great.
The food each day was delicious - we preferred to pack our lunches in lunchboxes and eat them on the go, as opposed to having a longer sit-down hot lunch (we were eager for more time on the game drive searching for animals!).
We had the most fantastic animal sightings, including numerous leopards, heaps of lions, four cheetah families (cubs!), hyena (including a stripped male) and a pack of wild dogs, which are extremely rare!
We spent a whole day in Arusha, which I highly recommend; we strolled around the non-touristic markets, attended a local church service which we happened to walk past, and just absorbed the atmosphere.
Highly recommend Wilson and Orongai Africa safari!
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Email Alex | 20-35 years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
Bait and Switch Scam - AVOID
We booked a 12 day Luxury+ tour through Kenya and Tanzania with Orongai. Despite Orongai confirming all the lodges were booked and paid for (included a number of the high end luxury AndBeyond lodges), itinerary we were promised was nothing like what we got. After 4 days of the 12 days, we cancelled the trip in the middle of the Masai Mara due to serious safety concerns and made our own arrangements to get home. We have never received a dollar of refund from Orongai despite multiple attempts.
Some key experiences:
- The vehicle provided was an old and unroadworthy 2WD van completely unfit for driving through national parks. Side door did not open from the inside, so you couldn’t get out without being let out from the outside. Driver was not a qualified safari guide, but a Nairobi taxi/van driver.
- We had our accommodations changed last minute or without notice from high-end luxury lodges to cheap tent accommodation. After this, we called ahead to the lodges booked according to our itinerary, and only 3 of the 9 remaining nights had been booked. Orongai was unable to be contacted and dismissed emails requesting the confirmation of bookings. We were stuck in the Masai Mara without knowing where we would be sleeping the following night.
- On the second day, we were forced to leave the lodge at 6am, missed the planned game drive, and had to sit in the unairconditioned van for 8 hours till we arrived at the next lodge. We had to use a pit in a village for a toilet break, which felt far from safe. When we arrived at the lodge, they had no record of our booking and hadn’t heard of Orongai. After an hour of the driver trying to contact Orongai to find out where we were staying, we then had to spend another 3 hours in the van to drive to a grossly inferior tent camp on the other side of the Masai Mara.
- Attempts to contact Orongai to confirm our lodgings and provide booking vouchers were futile. At this point, we discovered from reviews that others who had booked this trip had been held against their will, demanded more money be paid for fuel concessions, park fees etc, extorted, made to miss international flights and been in serious car accidents. Note: we couldn’t get out of the van from the inside!
- We realised at this stage that not only had we been completely scammed on the promised accommodation, activities included and itinerary in general, but we were not safe remaining on the tour, and informed our driver we would not be continuing. He became distressed and seemed petrified of what might happen to him if he did not deliver us to the Tanzanian border the following day. This only reinforced our fears, and we had another lodge come to pick us up as soon as possible.
We have been unable to get any refund from Orongai, and since the trip, I have experienced a large amount of serious fraudulent/scam activity on my email and personal accounts. This may be unrelated to Orongai, but seems more than coincidental.
I am sure if we continued the trip, this review would likely have far more sinister content. Glad we got out safely, despite out of pocket a very large some of money.
Bottom line: AVOID. Book your dream trip with a reputable travel agent.
Email Scan Infoto | 35-50 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Unforgettable emotions with Orongai Safaris
Simply wonderful!
We are two female travelers who love traveling and exploring different places in the world. For a long time, we were hesitating to go for African safari as we knew that it would require organised trip, which is not our way of traveling. Yet, as a last-minute decision for my birthday, we have decided to visit Tanzania.
I have contacted several companies organising Safaris in Arusha; Anna form Orongai Africa safaris, unlike others, immediately responded with a great itinerary at a reasonable price.
When we arrived at Kilimanjaro International Airport, our charming guide Fredy was waiting for us. As a welcome surprise, Fredy prepared a table with Champaign, snacks, and water.
It is impossible to express the experience we had over next 7 days. Everything was perfect and luxurious. Fredy was all in one, great driver, professional guide, and a fantastic companion. As mentioned in other reviews, Fredy has truly an Eagle Eye, and we were able to see probably everything that Tarangire, Serengeti, and Ngorongoro crater has to offer.
We loved Acacia Luxury Camps; it was like Shangri-La in the middle of National Parks. The food was terrific, cleanliness of the hotels was spotless, and the staff hospitality beyond all imaginations.
Where else in the world you can see walking family of Giraffes against sunset from your terrace, or hear Lions roars during the night?
Orongai Africa safaris car was in great shape, and with Fredys exceptional driving skills, we were able to pass any road obstacle the nature prepared for us, and it felt so safe to watch lions from proximity.
Tanzania is an incredible place, and I have learned so much about its nature. All these days spent in safari, we felt relaxed, safe, and happy. It did not feel like we are traveling with a guide, rather more like with a dear friend.
I genuinely recommend Orongai Africa Safari group and Fredy as a Guide to everyone who wishes to have a perfect holiday.
We will be back! Thank you for everything.
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Email ESTEBAN CELI | 50-65 years of age | Experience level: first safari
THIEFS LADRONES TOTALES
ARE THE REAL THIEFS , SCAMMERS, LIARS AND MORE, BE CAREFULL
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Email Hhhmmm | 20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Scam
We booked with them based on a friend’s recommendation. We booked for 6 days, and we booked a balloon ride. Upon arrival we discussed the planning. However on the balloon trip it was weird they said we had to go to the balloon center when we got in the Serengeti. And make an appointment. Serengeti was day 3. So we visited some parks and upon arrival at the Serengeti it was already weird. We had to wait 2 hours for cash. So we go in the park and ask our driver to go the balloon centers. He confessed that everything was booked months in advance. Okay fine, but then we expect the money back as they didn’t book it. So on our ride back to the airport we would meet the owner. He stalls it, making us wait an hour and almost missing our flight. He didn’t want to pay/didn’t have the money. So we were scammed out 1000 usd. Before flying out of Tanzania I emailed the firm for a compensation. After some pressure from my end they agreed to pay in installments. 4 installments of 250$. The first 2 went fine, the 3rd took 4 months and the last one I am still awaiting. For over 6 months. They said they could not pay the last installment due to cash shortage but that was 6 months ago. Since then they are not replying on emails.
So DO NOT BOOK ANYTHING WITH THIS FIRM. THEY SCAM YOU AND ARE PROBABLY BANKRUPT.
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Email Redrt Porte | 35-50 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Best of the best safari!
I have booked a 8 nights Safari in Tanzania between Tarangire - Lake Manyara - Lake Natron - Serengeti (north and central) - Ngorongoro - Lake Eyasi.
Since the booking Asser, the owner of the company, has been really great, customizing the tour following my needs.
Everything was really professional since the first email and the booking process was really smooth.
Being a small company, Orongai safaris has great care for their customers: the communication between the booking and the start of the Safari has always been accurate and effective.
Then, when the time for the safari arrived, everything from the beginning was absolutely fantastic!
1. the driver / guide, Jackson, is a safe driver and has great knolwedge of the parks and we were always there at the right time to see the best things: the river crossing by the wildebeest, the lions hunting, the leopard having his food, the cheetah with her babies...
Moreover he was always helpful in explaining things and the dynamics of wildlife
2. the car was really comfortable and clean. Water was provided every day
3. the accommodations were really good, especially the tented camps in the Serengeti
4. the itinerary was well designed, we never had to rush and had enough time to enjoy everything at the right pace
4. Asser was really kind and wanted to meet me at the start and the end of the tour: this is great customer care!
It was my fifth experience in Africa and i have to admit that this safari in Tanzania was the best of my life.
Orongai safaris is a reliable company and i would suggest to book with them over the biggest company in Arusha if you want to have a better customer experience.
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Email Salvin Btrwon | 20-35 years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
Fantastic driver/guides, incredible trip
As a solo traveller, I contacted three safari companies 10 days (!) prior to my flight to Tanzania to enquire about a 7-day mid-range safari (through Tarangire, Serengeti, Lake Manyara and Ngorongoro) on my preferred dates. All three companies replied within a day but I liked Orongai safari's offer the most, because Asser NNko, the managing director provided me with an authentic 7-day itinerary which I liked a lot. I felt relieved that everything was planned out for me by an expert so I did not have to worry about anything.
When I arrived to Arusha, one of Asser's representatives picked me up at the airport and transferred me to the Charity Hotel. On the first day, I visited Arusha National Park with Jackson who was my driver and guide of that day. Jackson kindly showed me giraffes, zebras, buffalos, flamingos, monkeys, and we were lucky enough to see Mount Kilimanjaro from a viewpoint. Jackson was very patient while I took photos. I also had a 1-hour walking safari with an armed ranger that day; - I loved the idea of walking a few meters away from the giraffes at the foothills of Mount Meru! An amazing experience.
Then the real adventure started with Simon Juma Salim who was my/our guide/driver for the rest of the week.
On day 2-6, I was supposed to join a group of five but thanks to Asser, I shared the safari jeep with only one other solo traveller. The three of us, we spent 1 day in Tarangire National Park, 2 days in the Serengeti, and one day in Ngorongoro. On my 7th day I visited Lake Manyara alone with our guide, Simon.
Simon Juma Salim, our guide was brilliant!!! At first the three of us made a decision together what to focus on during the safari, i.e., the great migration or the big cats. Both of us were mainly interested in the big cats, so Simon ensured that we definitely see lions, cheetahs and leopards by driving through their habitat in the Serengeti. Actually, I saw 31 lions, several cheetahs with babies, and a leopard with her baby! Thanks to Simon, I could also meet the Big Five and many many other beautiful animals. I was lucky enough to witness a male lion (and later vultures) eating a buffalo at Lake Manyara, and I could also see a tree climbing lion. Simon himself got very excited when we spotted an animal on the savannah, and Simon even helped me taking photos through binoculars! Simon is very passionate about his job, and he considers Serengeti as his second home. Of course, Simon always shared some interesting facts about the animals and vegetation as well as the different tribes. Simon also shared some stories of his life during lunch and dinner.
Simon is very friendly, kind-hearted and helpful; and his genuine personality contributed that I enjoyed this trip so much.
In relation to the accommodation selected by Asser, I loved the Serengeti Wildlife Camp (because I could hear hyenas, and lions roaring at night...) and the Ngorongoro Wildlife Lodge (because of the beautiful views) the most. Asser via Simon our guide continuously asked for feedback about the accommodation (if I had not been happy with it Asser would have changed it).
I highly recommend Orongai safaris.
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Email Donald Frank | 35-50 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Best experience Ever!
I had an excellent experience climbing Machame route for 7 days in January 2015 with Martha and Orongai Safaris. I contacted Martha and found him very Helpful with everything and also very flexible as I was unsure of my climbing dates. She told me about his company.
Her price was very competitive; I found other companies more expensive who did not offer any additional services.
She Helped me with renting gear for my climb, such as a Down Jacket, warm summit trousers and poles. I considered buying these before my trip but it is expensive gear. In the end I am glad I rented it as the quality was very good.
I liked the little things that Orongai Safaris offered; they picked me up from the bus station in Arusha and brought me straight to my hotel (which was very comfortable). The bus stop in Arusha is a little crazy so you will be glad of this!
Also on the trip you are provided with a portable toilet so you
don't have to use the toilet at the campsite. This is a luxury you will only realise when you are 4000m up on the mountain, trust me!
My guide was Andrew who I got on very well with. His English was perfect and, as I was the only climber in the group, we got on very well. She Helped me in every way She could and made the trip very enjoyable.
All meals were excellent quality. The porters could not have been more Helpful.
Only one thing to be aware of is the cost of tipping, especially if you are a solo climber like me. Martha gave me recommendations and I tried to match them as best I could, but tips are very expensive so make sure you include these in your budget.
I had trouble getting down from the mountain due to altitude sickness, where I had trouble walking down from the summit. Andrew my guide did a great job in assisting me to lower altitude and gave me oxygen to ensure I was ok. He did a brilliant job.
Overall my experience with Martha and Orongai Safaris was 10 out of 10. You will be glad you booked with them.
Feel free to get in touch if you need any more details about Orongai Safaris or about the climb.
Thank you Martha.
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Email Simone&Martina | 20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
GREAT EXPERIENCE WITH ORONGAI
Our Safari with Orongai in Kenya was a wonderful experience.
We planned it and organized it in less than 10 days together with Martha, who was always very quick in answering our emails.
We picked the “7 days Safari” in Amboseli, Naivasha, Nakuru and Masai Mara; then we made a little modification on the accommodation for the last 2 nights, because we wanted to spend them in a tented camp (with an extra cost); this changing in the program caused a little problem at first: Ann did not quite understand well what we wanted and there was a problem with payment balance; Ann was not reachable and We could not get any answer, so We started our trip from Italy wondering if everything would have gone well; everything was fixed when we arrived in Nairobi with Martha (she waited for us at the hotel even if it was late in the night), who gave us back the money that we paid for our 2 nights in the tented camp, which Ann did not managed to organize.
The Safari tour is organized perfectly and in the most smart way, letting you discover the marvel of Masai Mara at the end of the trip, so that also the other National Reserves (which are wonderful itself) can be fully appreciated.
All the accommodations are very nice, clean and in proper order, giving you the sense of the African atmosphere.
(Maybe the first lodge in Amboseli was on a lower level compared to all the others, but still fair)
Last but not least, our guide: Kevin.
He has been the greatest guide!! Always on time, always ready to explain us something, whether it was about animals, nature or African culture.
Great animal spotter and a very nice guy.
We really enjoyed our experience with Orongai Africa Safari and we would recommend it to whoever wanted to make a Safari tour in Kenya.
Asante Sana Orongai!!
