SMILE WITH US TOURS IN AFRICA 2024
Smile With Us Tours In Africa
- Office In:
- Size:
- 5-10 employees (Founded in 2017)
- Tour Types:
- Custom budget & mid-range tours that can start every day
- Destinations:
- Price Range:
- $200 to $490 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
US
Email Austin | 20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Unrivaled professionalism and service
My wife and I took a private one day fly in fly out safari from Zanzibar to Nyerere National Park (used to be called Selous Game Reserve) during the latter portion of rainy season, mid-May.
Firstly, our amazing experience began with a request for a quote. Within 1 hour we had a quote and a deeply detailed layout of our trip from the pickup point at our resort in Nungwi beach to Nyerere and then back to our resort. I had a few questions for Jacob, my contact, through email which were promptly answered. So within 48 hours I confidently booked with Smile With Us Tours. Payment through PesaPal (a Tanzanian PayPal of sorts) was quick and easy.
On the day before our safari, the taxi driver (Nurdin) contacted us through WhatsApp to confirm our pickup and drop off. Nurdin was so very kind and willing to share his knowledge of his home with us. Most importantly, he was a safe driver.
On the day of the Safari we woke up early and met Nurdin who took us to the small departure gates that housed flights to Safari airstrips. The plane was a ~30 passenger double prop plane. The landing at Nyerere (as it is on any dirt runway in a small plane) is not as cushioned as a large international flight might be, but don’t let that deter you. It is such a cool experience! At the end of the runway awaits some nice restrooms, a line of safari trucks, and the entrance to Nyerere National Park. Stepping off the plane, we were immediately greeted with a huge smile by our fantastic tour guide Eric.
Eric began by familiarizing us with our 6 seater safari truck. Our safari truck was loaded with a cooler full of ice waters that was easily accessible throughout the trip. The dew that morning had left the seats a little damp, but before we even had the chance to mention it, Eric solved that problem by covering our seats with plastic panchos that were also available for rainy days. When entering the park, we stopped by the park rangers station where we picked up an extra tour guide who was learning the ropes in their tour guide school named Jameson “Jimmy”. Of course, Eric made sure it was ok with us before we added Jimmy as an additional passenger.
Despite being in the park during rainy season, when the foliage is dense and the animals more difficult to see, we had no issue getting many up close encounters with ALMOST all (sneaky lions) of the animals on our list. The guides from different companies are constantly on the radios trying to coordinate their movements to make sure you see the most animals. We were blown away with the variety of animals we saw and our favorites were the wildebeest, hippos, water buffalo, and the baby elephants! If you like giraffes, you are in for a treat! You will see more giraffes than you ever thought possible. You may even be sick of seeing giraffes at the conclusion of your trip!
Nyerere is a gem of a park as it contains many different “biomes” like savannah, wetlands, and dense jungle. Even in the rainy season, it displayed a dry grass savannah with herds of zebra and impala with the occasional wildebeest. 15 minutes later we were driving through a thicket of large, vined trees where a group of baboons were dropping fruits to a small harem of female elephants and their feisty young calves. Fifteen more minutes passed and we reached a sprawling riverbed where hippos and crocodiles were plentiful.
In the morning we had a 20 minute break where all of the safari trucks gathered near the river for coffee, tea, and Tanzanian fried bread (andazi). During the afternoon we stopped for lunch near a lake infested with more hippos than you can possibly begin to count. The lunch area had several metal gazebos where you can get out of the sun and very nice restrooms that were totally unexpected out in the bush. We ate a dish of chicken in curry on a bed of rice with a side of melon.
We finished the tour chasing after lion and hyena tracks, but to no avail. We were close though, as evidenced by several piles of giraffe bones scattered near our search area. Eric and Jimmy both created such an unforgettable experience for me and my wife and I know they are continuing to do the same for all of their tour customers.
The return flight to Zanzibar was peaceful and Nurdin was waiting for us as we walked out of the airport to take us back to our resort in Nungwi. In all, we left our resort at 0400 and returned around 1730 in the evening. If you want a special safari experience but don’t know if a multi-day trek is for you, I would highly suggest this opportunity.
Of note, the price of all the tours is a steal for the experience. However, the difference between a private tour and a group tour is arguably negligible. I would highly suggest a private tour if you feel that way too!
Also of note, while tipping is not mandatory, these guides are extremely skilled at navigating rough terrain, communicating with other guides, and teaching you about their animals, all while using multiple different languages. These gentlemen (from several companies) take pride in their trade and are unbelievably service oriented. They deserve a good tip so make sure to bring some Tanzanian cash!
Safaribookings.com is a terrific site and when my wife and I return to East Africa I will be using them to find my next safari adventure. Hopefully that tour is guided by the hardworking people at Smile With Us Tours!
Email Hilary | 50-65 years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
Excellent - ultimate experience and great value for money
We can find no fault at all with smile with us safari tour. From beginning to end they were exceptional. Great communicators and our guide Kassim was brilliant.
He discovered our love of birds and went out of his way to find all bird species as well as the big animals. Nothing was too much trouble. A private trip for just us at a price that would be cheap for a group tour. And Kassim went out of his way to make sure we were not in the rat run of safari jeeps all chasing the same animals…. We were nearly always alone and saw absolutely everything and at really close range! An absolutely faultless trip - we cannot thank you enough for making memories to last a lifetime
CY
Email Constantinos | 35-50 years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
Top operator, we "Smiled With Them" all along. Highly recommended!
Our group of 3 families (10 persons) took the 3-day safari tour at Selous (Nyerere NP). From our first contact with the operator until the end of the tour, everything ran seamlessly, to our full satisfaction (in terms of professionalism, efficiency, speed and quality of service, experience and value for money). The operator was highly efficient and professional. Jacob (their contact person) was always kind and very prompt in responding to our communication, and arranged to pick us up from our hotel in Dar Es Salaam and drive us back straight at the Zanzibar ferry terminal on Day 3, which helped avoid the hassle/cost of additional transportation arrangements.
On day 1, we arrived at Jimbiza Camp (Selous) in the early afternoon, and were greeted with a warm smile by Godson, the person in charge, who was polite, well-organised, always available, and ensured we had a smooth, pleasant and safe stay. Our tents were clean, spacious with all necessary amenities for a safari accommodation (including en suite WC and shower). After a quick lunch at the camp, we had a boat ride on the Rufiji river, saw many hippos, a few crocodiles and various animals and birds, while enjoying a beautiful sunset.
Day 2 was the full safari day in the Nyerere NP by jeep. Kassim and Msafiri, skilled drivers, highly experienced guides, and most of all, persons of remarkable kindness and personalities, drove us smoothly and safely through the rough Tanzanian roads and the Park's terrain. They displayed their experience (and good local information network) in locating several kinds of animals (including a pack of 14 lions), while showing mastery and respect in the way they approached them, causing the least possible disturbance (as opposed to a number of 'kamikaze' drivers around us, who clumsily drove at high speeds towards the animals, scaring them away.) Our guides also had an extensive knowledge of the animal and plant ecosystem, and shared with us interesting insights on the Park's species and the environment.
On the 3rd day, instead of the usual 'morning walk in the jungle', Kassim noticed our interest to visit a Maasai village, and was kind enough to arrange a visit through his own contacts with the tribe's chief. We spent about 2 hours there, in what proved for us to be a highly educational interaction with these unique, proud and hospitable people.
We are thankful to the operator, and most of all our remarkable guides, for one of the best experiences of our lives. First-time safari visitors should bear in mind that this is wild nature, and seeing all animals you would hope for involves an element of chance. So cherish the experience as it comes, and appreciate what you will be lucky enough to encounter.
IT
Email Filippo | 20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
An Unforgettable Dream Experience: A Safari with Friends in Tanzania!
I can't find words enthusiastic enough to describe my four-night safari in Tanzania with a group of 10 friends. It was an experience that far exceeded all my expectations and that I will carry in my heart forever.
Being part of a group of friends made this adventure even more memorable. Divided into two jeeps, we shared emotions, amazement, and smiles at every corner of the parks. The duration of four nights and five days was perfect to completely immerse ourselves in the fascinating world of African wildlife and create indelible memories together.
We had the opportunity to visit some of Tanzania's most iconic parks, including Serengeti North, Serengeti Central, Ngorongoro, and Tarangire. Each of these parks gifted us a unique and captivating view of the region's natural diversity. Breathtaking landscapes and sightings of wild animals contributed to making this adventure an authentic and engaging experience.
Our group was incredibly lucky with the sightings. We had the extraordinary opportunity to see all five members of the "Big Five," making each jeep ride an endless source of enthusiasm. The wildebeest crossings we observed were spectacular and breathtaking, while the scene of a lioness hunting left us breathless. But undoubtedly, the highlight was the sighting of a rhinoceros, such a rare moment that made our safari truly unique.
The guides, Danny and Anthony, were instrumental in making the journey even more special. Sharing their deep knowledge and contagious passion, they turned each jeep ride into an educational and engaging experience. Their friendliness and dedication contributed to creating an atmosphere of friendship and adventure that made our journey even more special.
Jacob's professionalism in crafting the itinerary was truly noteworthy. He managed to create a program that fully met our expectations, perfectly balancing sighting moments with accommodation comfort and travel arrangements. Isack's dedication in picking us up from Arusha and taking us to the airport for the flight to Kogatende was extraordinary. His courtesy and attention made us feel as if we were among longtime friends.
The impeccable organization, both before and during the safari, added a touch of professionalism and comfort to the overall experience. The "Smile With Us" agency demonstrated an extraordinary commitment to ensuring that every aspect of our journey was well taken care of. From airport arrival, transportation to the various parks, comfortable accommodations, and delicious meals, everything was managed with exceptional precision and attention to detail.
In conclusion, I can only highly recommend the experience of a safari in Tanzania to anyone who loves nature, adventure, and untamed beauty. These four days were a journey of discovery, excitement, and wonder, made even more special by the company of my friends, the outstanding guides, impeccable organization, and incredible animal sightings. "Smile With Us" is more than an agency: it's a gateway to a world of wonder and adventure. I can't wait to embark on new adventures with them and my friends in the future.
Email David & Jess | 20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Once in a lifetime experience!!
We honestly couldn't rate this company more highly! We had a 5-day Safari in Tanzania, exploring the Makumi and Nyerere parks. Our experienced guide Salum was incredibly friendly and informative, he knew all the right spots to find animals in both parks and we cannot thank him enough for his efforts in making us feel comfortable and at ease. A highlight of this trip, in particular, was exploring the waterfalls and hiking trip, which was stunningly beautiful and provided a nice bit of variety to the trip. Communication before & during the trip from the guide and the company itself was impeccable. If you are looking for a comprehensive safari experience, no need to look any further, go with these guys! Thank you Smile.
Email Stephen Roberts | 20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Outstanding, professional and stress-free
Just WOW, I cannot thank Smile With Us enough. We went on a 2 day safari trip to Nyerere National Park and it was an experience my wife and I will never forget. I must give a massive shout out to Maarufu our tour guide. He was just incredible, he knew the area like the back of his hand and he is so knowledgeable. When we come back to Africa for another safari (because we have to come back it was that good). We will not be using any other provider only Smile With Us.
PT
Email Miguel Sa | 50-65 years of age | Experience level: first safari
One of the best experiences of our lives! TOP
We did the one-day safari in Mikumi National Park with this operator.
We left Zanzibar and arrived in Mikumi by plane. A magnificent and unforgettable trip.
The jeep tour with our guide was spectacular. We were so lucky to have the best guide in the park - Isaack. We saw all the animals and Isaack made sure we got as close to them as possible. Spectacular.
We recommend this operator.
Thanks to Jacob who was tireless throughout the booking process and changes. Thanks to Nurdin and Issack.
JE
Email Elliot | 20-35 years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
Fantastic! Surreal experience, like a dream!
Our adventure with Smile With Us Tours Africa was simply out of the ordinary.
Jacob’s helpfulness in answering all our questions in the booking phase, to helping storing our luggage whilst we were away was second to none. Nurdin came to pick us up directly from our hotel at 4am to drive us to the airport, he was punctual, welcoming and extremely polite.
Our exceptional guide Maarufu was waiting for us when the plane arrived in Mtemere airstrip. Maarufu really made our trip, he was extremely knowledgable of the animals and area as well as super friendly and great fun!
We started the stay with breakfast in a lodge outside Nyerere National Park. This was followed by a “Walking Safari” accompanied by a Maasai. We learnt about the different trees, plants and animals droppings of the bush - a really useful background prior to the game drives. The Maasai also demonstrated and let us attempt to make fire the traditional way.
Before lunch, we embarked on a “Boat Safari” during which we were able to see crocodiles, hippos and many birds.
After lunch, we left with Maarufu on our first game drive. After a brief discussion we agreed to travel along the highway for an hour with the goal of finding lions that had been spotted earlier. On the road, we met giraffes, impalas, pumbas, buffaloes and even elephants!
After about an hour and a half, and Maarufu’s expert guidance, the ultimate reward, a large family of lions with lots of cubs. The dream!
The lions came so close to the car to find shade that we could have reached out and touched them!
The drive back to the lodge was full of more animals everywhere we looked.
We spent the evening and night at Selous Impala Camp. The tents were very comfortable, the service very attentive and the food delicious.
The next morning we left at sunrise for a “Bush Breakfast”. Maarufu used his expertise to track the elephant footprints and to locate a family of elephants with many baby elephants.
We had breakfast by one of the park’s many lakes, a unique and memorable moment.
We continued the safari before returning for lunch at the lodge, before leaving for Mtemere airstrip, still spotting a number of animals on the way.
Throughout the Safari, Maarufu knew how to find the animals, bring the car as close as possible without scaring them so that we could be as close as possible to them. He also have us a lot of information about the animals and how the entire ecosystem works.
It is important to note that we were provided with an open top Jeep, entirely open on the sides, that was just for us. This was very different from the occasional others companies we saw which had a mixture of people crammed into the car, or no open sides.
Thank you to Jacob and the whole team for organising a wonderful two days and especially Maarufu for making it truly unforgettable, making us laugh and smile non stop and guiding us to all the animals of the Selous!
Email Jenny | 35-50 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Very accommodating and professional service
We did the southern circuit of Tanzania. From the very beginning Smile with Us were quick to respond to our queries, and were very accommodating when it came to tailoring our itinerary.
We had a fantastic journey around 4 national parks with a private guide/ driver Khalifa. We saw everything we hoped to see and lots more. Our guide went above and beyond to ensure we had the best experience. We would highly recommend.
FR
Email Aurore | 20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Unforgettable experience!
Leaving in June 2023, we had an excellent time with your team, from start to finish!
First, with Omary, very friendly and a very good driver. It allowed us to meet children for the school supplies that we had brought, to enjoy the country thanks to the 5-hour car ride to go to the mainland, to observe the magnificent animals of the Nyerere park (zebras, leopard , elephant, impala, baboons, hyena, giraffe, crocodiles, hippos...), we saw very few tourists, it was great thank you very much! And he helped us a lot with the ferry!
Then, Mickaël, our French-speaking guide, perfect too! Very kind, attentive, he explained to us very well the life of animals and men in Tanzania, we met the villagers for supplies thanks to him, great time! There was also Abdul the driver of the safari boat, nice too! Then Didi the bushman gave us a great demonstration of jungle plants, he’s funny! The Selous is magnificent...
The accommodation was very good too, the restaurant staff chat easily and are always smiling and attentive, and the Maasai are good handymen to repair our broken sandal, and are also very friendly!
The organization was perfect, we thank you for everything, the memories are engraved forever, good luck to you!
(automatic translation from French)