The Safari Soles Team
Safari Soles
- Offices In:
-
United Kingdom
- Size:
- 10-20 employees (Founded in 2018)
- Member Of:
- Tanzania Tourist Board
- Tour Types:
- Custom mid-range & luxury tours that can start every day
- Destinations:
- Price Range:
- $300 to $600 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 Christian Nordström | 50-65 years of age | Experience level: first safari
We got everything in our 6-days safari that the company had promised in their program.
We are very satisfied with everything. The service, communication and the whole trip was great. We hade a good driver and he always tried to make us happy.
US
Email Natalie | 20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Amazing African safari
Going on an African safari has been a dream of ours for many years. When we originally started planning our trip in December 2019 we never could have guessed the impact that COVID-19 would have on the world and our plans. In June when it was announced that US travels could again travel through EU airports and flight prices were at an all time low we decided to go for it and booked our trip for July. We could not be more pleased of how everything went. The four day trip through the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, and Tarangire was absolutely incredible.
From planning to final departure, everything that the Safari Soles team did was above top notch. When some of our flights within Tanzania were canceled and we could not find alternatives, Bryson was there to help us book local airfare. We like to taste local beers during our travels and is was a nice touch that beer was picked up for us to be enjoyed as we liked. Of course, plenty of bottled water was also provided throughout the trip.
Everyone we encountered, from our phenomenal driver and guide, David, to all of the camp staff, took our health and safety very seriously. For the most part, we saw very few people each day and saw a lot more animals than people. What better way to social distance than with wild animals?! We were asked to wear masks in very limited situations but most of the staff continued to wear them whenever they were around us and our temperature was taken at every lodge before entering.
The experience we had on the safari drives would not have been possible without our incredible driver and guide, David. He was knowledgeable, friendly, upbeat, and fun to be around, all of which go a long way when you spend four full days eating every meal together and spending 8 plus hours every day in a vehicle together. He worked hard to locate every animal we wanted to see, which of course, was all of them. Our favorites were the multiple lion prides we encountered, elephant, zebra, wildebeest, gazel, and giraffe herds which we saw every day, and the rear cat species we saw including leopard, cheetah, and serval. Many other animals were also seen including hippos, hyenas, jackal, rhino, baboons, mongoose, and so many bird species!
David ensured that everything was taken care of everywhere we went and even took the grueling task of teaching us some Swahili in stride. Asante sana!
The accommodations that were arranged exceeded expectations as did the meals that included local fair and three courses every time. Rooms were spotlessly clean and very comfortable. Hot water was available at every camp. Our first two nights we "camped" we experienced all the benefits of every glamper's dreams including soft linens, towels, and bath robes! Complementary toiletries were also available at each camp. Our third and final night we stayed at a luxurious lodge set within the Arusha hillside where we had our own villa and as the only guest on site an infinity pool, chef, and amazing and friendly staff.
Taking a trip around the world during a global pandemic wasn't something we planned on but doing so with Safari Soles was an experience we will never forget and one we would highly recommend at any time! The people of Tanzania are friendly, generous, and kind. The views are unmatched and the animals you will experience are unbelievably majestic.
ID
Email Ran | 20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Excellent tour, well recommended
Since my college days, I promised my mom I'd bring her to a local zoo not far from my university for a Safari experience. By the time I've graduated and driven my car back to our home state, the plan still hasn't materialized yet. Luckily, I won a lottery - a pair of free tickets anywhere around the world - and since there are lots of travel restrictions around the globe, I decided to bring my mom to Tanzania.
I know nothing about Tanzania previously, and Bryson (the owner, also who "coincidentally" always online whenever I chatted) has been more than helpful. He is hospitable, well-mannered, and honest. He gladly assists with many problems during our time in Tanzania, even if it's not related to Safari. We managed to try an authentic African dish (ndizi choma), also thanks to him.
Now to the Safari itself. We choose to go for the four-day trip consisting of Tarangire NP, Serengeti NP, and Ngorongoro NP. Our driver/guide was David "Simba" and boy wasn't he a fantastic guy! We managed to see lots and lots and lots of animals, including all the Big 5. I believe we've seen all the animals possible, including jackals, servals, croc, and even rarer animals. Highlight on hyena/vultures feasting on buffalo carcass, rainbow which end falls right on a group of elephants, a lone black rhino on Serengeti NP, and a leopard siesta in the tree. Unfortunately, we didn't get to see any lion hunting live - we almost see one in Tarangire, but somehow the lion fails to hunt the warthog.
It would help if you took note that this tour neither goes all the way deep into Serengeti (only the central Seronera area) nor the wildebeest crossing. Unfortunately, it was also raining on the day where we're supposed to see that majestic Serengeti sunset, but obviously, they can't control the weather, so I'm not blaming haha. I was a bit insecure when they write on the website that the Maasai village visit is optional, and most people opt against it because I love going to a cultural event. Bryson said that there would be a vote for the village trip, and they'll go if more people want to go. I almost canceled the booking altogether because I'm worried I'll lose the vote. OK, I perfectly know that it might be a tourist trap, but the welcoming dance was unforgettable. Africa is very, very far, and I want to experience every cultural thing I can grasp. It was terrific and also a highlight of the trip. I hope they'll re-write that paragraph on their description, though, hahaha. Again, it turns out there's an option to stay overnight with the Hadzabe tribe (a hunter-gatherer tribe) in Ngorongoro NP as well; ask Bryson or your guide for more details. I know this from our chef, Geoffrey, who was from the Hadzabe tribe.
Next, I'm going to review the food. It was delicious. The meal is International / Western food, cooked fresh (the chef Geoffrey comes along with us) every time. The portion was huge. Very huge. It's okay if you think you can't finish it; take what you can because they will donate the rest to the locals around. What a great idea they have, right? :) I think my favorite was the fusilli with onion and leek served in Ngorongoro NP - it seems so simple yet so flavorful. We enjoyed dining with chef Geoffrey. Unfortunately, there was a little incident with the Tanzanian wine - the corkscrew split in half. I'm a bit sad that I can't taste the wine. It wasn't South African; it was from a Tanzanian vineyard—more reason to return to Tanzania.
Let's see what else. The jeep was spacious, the roof opens and extendable. Cold beers are always available. Don't forget your binoculars (tip: you can borrow Bryson's if you don't' have one). Overall I enjoy having the tour with Safari Soles, and I think it's worth every penny! David is brilliant and seems to know every animal - even the Latin name. I believe he studied hard for this.
So kudos to the Safari Soles team; asante sana for a fantastic once-in-a-lifetime experience. I wish you continued success.
Also, I'm looking forward to seeing Bryson in Bali.
RU
Email Andrei | 20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Great safari with amazing food
Took 3-day trip to Serengeti and Ngorongoro, driver was a real professional, thanks David Symba, he took us to such roads, where we couldn't see no one, except animals :) saw a lot of animals, including great 5. The stay was on camp-sites, it was nice. Also there was super chief with us, we expected, that we would have only sandwiches, but the food was amazing, as you would have restaurant always with you. But i also highly recommend to take some snacks with you, as you'll have long game drives and movements.
And finally i don't recommend to visit masai's village. I would say they are fake masais, just artists, that don't want to work. When you arrive they will ask you money, after that bring you to some souvenirs, and that's it, then they will tell you "time is over". No history, no answers on questions, you even can't walk around their village. Just waste of time and money.
CZ
Email Jumbo Eagle | 20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Safari Soles delivered as described with top notch guides - in two words - hakuna matata
This trip was everything and more I hoped for it to be. Bryson on behalf of Safari Soles delivered as promised (+ minor upgrade one night), the airport r/t transfer is a nice touch to overall comfort. Communication with him was straightforward and effective.
I cannot speak highly enough of the tour guides David/Simba and chef Maurice – they made the trip unforgettable and kept us entertained with knowledge of wildlife and stories throughout the trip. Every lunch prepared by Maurice was some of the best food I had in Tanzania.
I was also lucky enough to meet great people in our group (6+2guides) which took the trip to another level :))
I opted for a 4days group lodge tour which imho is way superior to 3days tour (especially road / game drive balance). The 3nights accommodation was diverse and nothing but exceptional every night – the gap compared to camping accommodation is definitely to bear in mind while choosing the safari + you are missing hotel quality buffet dinner and buffet breakfast.
BIG 5 was ofc included :)
Email Inigo Kelsey | 20-35 years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
Incredible experience!
This Safari was definitely the highlight of my two months travelling around Europe and Africa. I booked 2 nights before on a Sunday and Byson was extremely helpful in helping organising at such short notice. Lucas (the guide) was unreal. He saw animals that were impossible to see and was able to answer all the questions I was constantly firing at him about them. He was also a fantastic energy to have in the car. I would highly highly recommend this tour!
PL
Email Aneta | 35-50 years of age | Experience level: first safari
The best company for safari!
Before I decided for Safari Soles I made a research among companys organizing tours. I think it was the best choice and our team: guide Isaack who has something like sixth sense of looking out for animals and our chef Abdullah Dullah who prepered for us many different meals for dinner, like in 5 stars hotel ( fish, pizza, meat, dessert) was the best team on safari. I can recommend you amazing experience - safari in tarangire, ngorongoro and serengeti with that amazing company:)
DE
Email Marco | 20-35 years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
3 days safari Serengeti & Ngorongoro
My girlfriend and I went for a short safari in the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater in November 2020. We went on a group safari and had a cook with us. We slept in a tent for two nights and it was a great adventure. At night the hyenas were at the campsite and you could also hear lions. I can 100% recommend Soles Tour. Everything went perfectly!
(automatic translation from German)
RU
Email petr | 20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Very good safari experience
The guide Simba is truly amazing - very knowledgeable and posesses great driving skills essential to do game drives. Bryson, the owner, is also amazing in communication and organization - he is also very kind and willing to do everything for you (i.e. organize extra activities, COVID tests, etc.). The car was fairly good, although a bit underequipped - we didn't have a shovel and the lift jack was not good - this created tension when we were stuck once. The food in lodges was amazing, but the field lunches sometimes were not fresh enough (especially fish and chicken).
UA
Email Danil | 20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Exceptional service and attitude
Perhaps your are planning your safari trip and trying to choose between dozens of similar companies. I made requests to three different companies and eventually picked Safari Soles. Although their offering was a bit more expensive, I am so glad for my choice.
First of all, if you have never been to a safari, you should definitely go and try it. You will see endless fields full of different animals, living in peace and harmony. You will see elephants and lions just two meters near your jeep. And hyenas will be singing you lullabies at nights :) You'll also see stunning sunrises and sunsets. After this trip you will not want to go to Europe for a holiday, and definitely you'll never go to a zoo again :)
So how are Safari Soles different from other companies?
1. Bryson - the person is charge - was very quick. He provided me with the most detailed reply to my questions, and his reply was the very first. Other companies just sent me their standard replies ignoring my questions at all. Bryson also was very helpful and polite. He recommended us and drove to an exchange point with good rates, and even borrowed us money on our first day :) Upon our request he also recommended us a great guide on Zanzibar. He could address all our questions and queries.
2. Accommodation. One night at a hotel before our safari trip was included in the offering. I know that usually companies accommodate their clients at very budget hotels or even at hostels. In our case the hotel was quite good. The room was very comfortable and had all necessary facilities. There was a pool at the hotel, and the restaurant was very good too.
3. David, the guide. David was just amazing. He could easily spot lions and cheetahs in 5 kilometers. The "big five" was not a challenge for us, but a trivial task. We also saw dozens of elephants, giraffes, hippos, hyenas, buffalos, wild beasts, impalas, jackals, pumbaas, zebras, and many many other animals and birds. David is also a very positive person and has good vibes :) We also could stay as much as we wanted near animals we liked. There was no rush and we felt very freуlly and comfortable.
4. The trip. Usually a group consists of 6 persons. We were lucky and on the first day we were just alone with David. We spent the first night at a budget lodge with a pool, which I think is better than a tent (near Tarangire). On the second day two more people joined us, and we were four. We were very lucky to met those wonderful people and enjoyed their company. It was very comfortable to travel in a group of four, much better then in a group of 6.
5. Salamon, the cook. I saw that people in other groups would eat potato with sausages. We would eat spaghetti Bolognese, beef stew, Tanzanian pizza, national cuisine, etc. We went to Zanzibar after our safari troop and sometimes the food at restaurants there was worse then our dinners on the safari.
The trip was a real adventure, which I will never forget. I am very grateful to Bryson, David and Salamon, and miss my group very much :) That was one of the best days of my life.