Mr Samuel Mopalo has been working in the tourism
Early Kingfisher Safari
- Office In:
- Size:
- 1-5 employees (Founded in 2017)
- Member Of:
- BOGA & Botswana Tourism
- Tour Types:
- Custom budget tours that can start every day
- Destinations:
- Price Range:
- $50 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
US
Email Emil Graziani | 65+ years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
When you have a very knowledgeable guide and attentive staff you have an amazing experience!
Our tour of the Okavango Delta was 15 years in the making, having fallen hopelessly in love with Africa after a 2004 guided tour in Kenya and Tanzania. During that trip we spent our non-game viewing time in lodges. This time we wanted to be full-time “in the bush.” Early Kingfisher Safaris guide, Samuel Mopalo, and his attentive staff of 4 made our 2018 trip the most amazing trip ever. There are numerous reasons for this: Sam is a certified Botswana guide with 20 years experience. Botswana guide certification is the gold standard for African safaris guides and his father was a guide before him. He has mastered tracking, identification of over 60 mammals, numerous reptiles and nearly 600 bird species and he loves sharing his knowledge. In addition, Sam is a master wildlife photographer. He knows how to position the vehicle for light and distance resulting in perfect photo opportunities. In short, Sam has mastered the art of safari guide, but perhaps the best thing about Sam’s skills is his ability to take advantage of luck. By that I mean when an opportunity presents itself, he moves on it to present to his guests that unique safari experience. When a lioness walked (roared) near the camp one morning before daybreak he asked that we leave before breakfast to catch up with the cat as the sun was coming up; and we did, long before other guides/tourist, giving us a breathtaking experience, memories and great pictures. This is Africa! The entire 11 days couldn’t have been better and I didn’t even mention Sam’s good natured manner, the superior service from the staff, and the delicious food. In summary, go with the best, go with Early Kingfisher Safaris.
NL
Email Frits van Vliet | 35-50 years of age | Experience level: over 5 safaris
The personal approach from the proffesional guides makes this the best safari we ever had in years.
Communication before leaving and after arrival from the management makes you feel human instead of a number. Safari feels like hunting with a camera of course, the guides did work great together. Rest camp did feel like home.
US
Email Laura | 35-50 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Unforgettable!
Absolute trip of a lifetime! We traveled to Botswana in November 2021 for a 10-day safari through Chobe National Park, Savuti, and the Okavango Delta. Sam and his fellow guide Paul were absolute encyclopedias of knowledge of the area, the animals, and the birds. They were so patient with all of our questions, and they worked so hard to ensure that we saw lots of animals and beautiful sights. Our tents were immaculately cleaned every day, and the beds were so comfortable. Sam's staff took incredible care of us, catering to our every wish. The food was absolutely delicious; we were amazed at what Chef could create over a campfire. He even made us a chocolate cake one day! I'm so glad that we didn't stay in a lodge. We were truly immersed in the environment, at one with the birds and animals. Every night the stars would fill the sky, and the animal sounds were the music to which we fell asleep. I had no concerns of covid because all of Sam's staff is vaccinated, and everyone in Botswana and South Africa wears masks. Sam also planned the trip so that we could get our travel-required covid tests for our return flights home. You cannot go wrong booking your trip with Early Kingfisher Safaris.
US
Email Andrew P. | 35-50 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Fantastic in all regards!
Myself and 8 other people went on a 12 day tour throughout the park, and everything could not have gone better. EVERYTHING was FANTASTIC! WOW!!!!
We were camping along the way and staying in the same camp about 2-3 days each on average, for a total of 12 days. EKS handled all aspects of the trip: transportation/guiding, meals, lodging (tent), and everything else that might be smaller. We had Sam and Paul as guides and took 2 trucks. The transportation/guiding was amazing - you could tell that Sam was the longtime guide that all the other guides (in other outfitters) constantly talked to and asked for advice. Paul provided a perfect partner guide as their personalities worked great together and complemented each other well. Each day was great and long enough to see animals, without getting overwhelmed or leaving miles on the table. Food was traditional "western" food with a carb (rice/potato), meat (chicken/beef/etc), salad, bread, soup, dessert. PLENTY of food. And wine/beer/mixed drinks. Everything was served to you and it was a full 5 star experience in all regards. Lodging was also better than most people have at home with fresh sheets each day, large tents, bathrooms/shower in each tent, and all the small amenities you would wish for - a cold towel to wipe your face after each drive, a cool wet towel on the outside toilet so the seat is not too hot, etc. They thought of it all. I would certainly do it all again and not change anything - the experience was perfect in all regards. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!
Email Noura | under20 years of age | Experience level: first safari
If you have found Early Kingfisher, you have found the best safari to book with
I had no idea what to expect when going into my family’s safari with Sam. But by the end of our trip, I knew that we could not have had any better experience with any other company.
The level of expertise, dedication, and passion is what makes Early Kingfisher so uniquely fit to provide the most enjoyable and memorable experience.
Over the course of our trip we found ourselves repeatedly grateful for having Sam as our guide. Having someone so knowledgeable about the bush, animal behavior, and everything in between made each moment particularly special. The Early Kingfisher name rings true, but for good reason. Though we were awoken before sunrise (to a good breakfast might I add), it meant that we not only had the opportunity to witness some truly spectacular morning skies, but it also allowed Sam to utilize his skills in tracking. We had the chance to witness a pride of lions relaxing after a meal and wild dogs searching for packmates, before any of the other safari cars made it to the spot and crowded around. If anything was an indication of Sam’s skills and keen eye to find animals and understand their movements, it was the constant call of “Sam Sam” over the radio by OTHER guides looking for his expertise and finds. The moments we experienced in the bush were also so dependent on the level of understanding Sam had. We had the incredible chance to see multiple ‘ceremonies’ of meeting and hunting as Sam knew when to hold out beyond snapping a few photos.
I cannot overemphasize Sam’s knowledge. Every question I asked about the animals behavior, evolution, and more—often times unsure there would be an answer—would be answered expertly in turn. And if you are an ornithologist, Sam has got you covered with his specialty in bird identification (even those not particularly keen on bird watching will find themselves interested I guarantee!).
This utter commitment to craft extends to everyone in the Early Kingfisher team. I truly do not think I have had better food (seriously delicious), more comfortable sleeping arrangements while camping, and service than what Sam’s staff provided. Honestly, it is something you just need to experience firsthand. You will never for a moment worry about being hungry or tired, with hearty meals and tea-times well-timed.
Our safari lasted seven days, and I believe that is the bare minimum that you should go for. I cannot more highly recommend Early Kingfisher, in all aspects imaginable. The opportunity to encounter Botswana’s beauty in such a powerful, well-attended way should not be passed up.
I would love to give a massive thank you to Sam and his team for giving me and my family an experience that will not fade from our memories!
NL
Email Natasja van Bragt | 35-50 years of age | Experience level: over 5 safaris
We had a great experience with OT and Lee. We were with a group of 11 and everything was super
We had a 2 days/1 night safari in Moremi. Our crew was top. We saw the most beautiful animals and a lot of Moremi. We like the flexibility of Theo and his crew. The campsite was like home, the food was great. The best experience ever. Thanks
DE
Email Melli | 35-50 years of age | Experience level: over 5 safaris
cAtMAZING
It was a great Trip in Botswana. We've seen so so many animals. Not only birds, also cats were Sam's speciality. We've seen more than ever. He's a very good tracker. Thanks a lot for another unforgettable journey in africa.
US
Email Judy | 65+ years of age | Experience level: first safari
Trip of a lifetime.
Our guide Sam Mopalo was excellent not only with his vast knowledge of all the animals, birds and insects but knowing where and when to find the best viewing of animals. I really cannot think of anything that wasn’t completely up to par for 10 days in the bush. Food, accommodations, and activities were well planned. Sam is professional as well as lots of fun. I highly recommend him
