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Apodiformes Adventures
- Office In:
- Size:
- 10-20 employees (Founded in 2017)
- Member Of:
- Kenya Tourism Regulatory Authority, AFRICA TOURISM ASSOCIATION & FRIENDS OF NAIROBI NATIONAL WILDILIFE CONSERVATION
- Tour Types:
- Customizable private tours and fixed group tours
- Destinations:
- Price Range:
- $75 to $250 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
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Email Presley | Experience level: first safari
Excellent choice, treated us very well and gave us the best tour driver Kevin.
Our safari trip to Kenya was nothing short of extraordinary, and much of its success can be attributed to our exceptional driver, Kevin Odeny. From the moment we met Janette at our hotel to finalize our payments and arrange the pickup time for the following morning, we were excited for the adventure ahead. The anticipation only heightened when Kevin arrived the next day, ready to guide us through Kenya's breathtaking landscapes and wildlife.
Our journey began with a drive overlooking and then driving through the stunning Rift Valley. Although the hot chocolate at the break stop was a bit overpriced, the views were worth every penny. Entering Hells Gate National Park within the Rift Valley which, stretches from Mozambique to the Red Sea is a distance of 9600 km, a residue of past volcanic eruptions offered us our first glimpses of Kenya’s wildlife, including baboons, various bird species, giraffes, and hyenas. Kevin expertly maneuvered the vehicle, ensuring we had the best vantage points for photography while sharing his extensive knowledge about the area. We also visited Hells Gate Gorge, with a guide who grew up there as a child and still lives in the area. Navigating the gorge can be tricky at times. Just be careful looking where you are placing your feet, can be slippery at times. The gorge itself is very beautiful with colorful volcanic rock, hot water close to 100degree, and cold water close by. Our gorge guide said as child this where he and other children would fetch hot water pouring from the rocks to make tea which was quicker than making a fire to boil water.
The day's drive took us to Lake Naivasha, where we embarked on a boat ride that was another highlight of our trip for that day. The lake was teeming with life—hippos emerged from the water, a multitude of bird species flitted about, and monkeys even joined us on the boat, adding a delightful touch to our experience. The hotel we stayed at that night offered a fantastic buffet with a variety of local dishes, further enhancing our immersion into the Kenyan experience.
The next leg of our safari was a journey to the Masai Mara, a drive that, while long, and dusty, was full of anticipation and excitement. Kevin provided a thorough briefing on what to expect until we reached the Masai Mara National Reserve. This vast expanse of 1,500 square kilometers is mostly open for game drives, with only 1,000 square kilometers accessible to tourists. The remaining 500 square kilometers are leased for private game drives, adding to the exclusivity of the experience.
At the Masai Mara, we witnessed the awe-inspiring Great Migration of wildebeests, stretching as far as the eye could see. Our safari also included sightings of warthogs, leopards, cheetahs, lions (both male and
female), hyenas, elephants, giraffes, buffalos, and a myriad of bird species. Cheetahs we understand is very hard to find, however Kevin seems to know where to find these animals. Kevin’s deep understanding of the park’s layout and his driving skills were crucial to these encounters. Taking us right on the border of Tanzania and Kenya. The terrain was bumpy and dusty, but Kevin's expertise ensured a smooth ride whenever possible choosing optimal positioning for photos.
Kevin’s ability to navigate the competitive environment of safari vehicles was impressive. During encounters with elusive animals like leopards, cheetahs, and lions, Kevin consistently secured the best spots for us to capture incredible photographs. He deftly maneuvered through a sea of vehicles, showcasing a level of skill and familiarity that set him apart. His ability to work the angles and timing allowed us to get up close and personal with the wildlife, far surpassing what many other drivers I observed could offer. Our day ended with us visiting the Masai Mara Community. Meeting with this group of people listening to their folklore, cultural way of life, and taking part in their communal festivities only enriched our experience to another level.
Our adventure continued at Lake Nakuru, another remarkable destination on our itinerary. Here, Kevin’s expertise shone once again. Although all vehicles were required to keep a distance from the rhinos, Kevin skillfully took us closer than most other guides, bringing us within 150 meters of these magnificent creatures. His knack for getting us closer to the action, while still adhering to park regulations, was nothing short of impressive. As other vehicles gathered around us to get a similar view, Kevin’s approach ensured we had a unique and memorable experience.
What truly set Kevin apart was not just his driving skill but also his deep knowledge of the parks and the wildlife. He was always ready to answer questions, offer historical insights, and share fascinating facts about the flora and fauna. As I listened in on conversation after conversation I hear about his reputation among other safari drivers, hotel staff, game wardens, and fellow guides was a testament to his professionalism and respect in the field.
In summary, our safari experience was enhanced immensely by Kevin's exceptional guiding. His blend of skill, knowledge, and passion made our trip unforgettable. From navigating the rugged terrains to securing the best photographic opportunities, Kevin’s expertise was invaluable. We saw and learned more than we had hoped for, all thanks to his outstanding guidance. There is so much more to write, however time and space will not allow. This safari has been a dream come true, and Kevin has set a high standard for future adventures. We will cherish these memories and hope to embark on another safari soon, ideally with Kevin at the helm.
SG
Email JJ | 20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Guide Big Tom was great, but we were temporarily switched to Ol Tukai as the operator
Guide Big Tom was great, but we were temporarily switched to Ol Tukai as the operator.
Lucky Kenya trip: We saw the wildebeest migration, the "Heaven's River Crossing," the Black Rock family, the Big Five of Africa, and more. Special thanks to guide Big Tom for his strong social network and for letting us experience the wild Africa in its entirety. The "Heaven's River Crossing" was particularly rare and unforgettable. We drove 4 hours through a private park to catch this rare sight. Tom was also very meticulous about the lunch view locations, always taking us to enjoy different views. Highly recommended!
Hotel Reviews:
Kibo Lounge: A standard 4-5 star hotel, with some wind, and the water was quite cold on the first day but better on the second day. Not sure if it’s related to solar heating. The second day had more sunlight (Originally Ol Tukai switched us to this hotel; we had visited Ol Tukai and felt it was better).
SOPA Lounge: Located by Lake Naivasha, focusing on close animal encounters. We really liked it. At night, hippos and zebras come into the park to graze. The hotel facilities are the most refined among those we stayed in, and the rooms have WiFi coverage.
Sarova Lounge: Near Lake Nakuru, it has the simplest decor among the hotels we visited but is located within the park, which may justify its price.
Mara Engai: Luxurious, with a "Lion King" view overlooking the savannah. The wooden furniture and large tents are impressive. Located within the park, it is said that elephants may migrate through the hotel in August.
IN
Email Metikurke | 35-50 years of age | Experience level: over 5 safaris
Best experience with knowledge
Embarking on a Masai Mara and Kenya safari is an unforgettable adventure that immerses you in the heart of Africa’s natural splendor. The Masai Mara, with its expansive savannahs and rolling hills, offers an unparalleled wildlife experience. Witnessing the Great Migration is a spectacle like no other, where thousands of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles traverse the plains in a breathtaking display of nature’s grand design. Our guide Nick was the best!
Kenya's diverse landscapes, from the lush highlands to the arid deserts, provide a stunning backdrop for this journey. The safari experience is enriched by encounters with the Big Five—lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino—each sighting a thrilling testament to the region's rich biodiversity.
The Masai people, with their vibrant culture and warm hospitality, add a unique cultural dimension to the trip. Their traditional dances, crafts, and stories provide a deeper understanding of the region’s heritage.
Accommodations range from luxurious lodges to intimate tented camps, ensuring comfort while maintaining a close connection to the natural world. Guided by knowledgeable and passionate rangers, every game drive is a new discovery, filled with insightful observations and thrilling moments.
Overall, a Masai Mara and Kenya safari is a mesmerizing journey through some of the world’s most iconic landscapes, offering a profound appreciation for wildlife, culture, and the wild beauty of Africa.
NZ
Email Sally | 50-65 years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
Fabulous Attention to Detail
Our family of 4 siblings arranged a 21 day holiday in Kenya and Tanzania, through Silas of Apodiformes adventures. It was many months in the planning, and Silas was helpful, always available, ready to discuss and advise. We stayed in Samburu, Ol Pejeta, Lake Naivasha, Masai Mara in Kenya, then a land border crossing into Tanzania and Northern Serengeti, Central Serengeti, Ngorongoro, then back to Kenya for Amboseli and Tsavo. So we packed a lot into our 3 weeks, but all the parks are so diverse, we're glad we did it this way.
This is my 3rd time to East Africa but my first time with Apodiformes. As advised, I got 5 quotes, but Apodiformes were significantly cheaper, for much the same accommodation, parks, etc. We paid the deposit through the banking system, but Silas then mentioned the remaining amount should be paid in US$ cash - I was a bit wary. I rang Silas, and he explained it is because of credit fees, we could pay that way, but would incur significantly higher costs. We brought the cash! 😊 It was fine.
Our accommodation was of a lovely standard, a mixture of Serena and Simba Lodges. Food was buffet style, something to suit everyone, and tasty and nutritious. Our guides were friendly, and knowledgeable, Michael (Kenya); Hosea (Tanzania); Daniel (Kenya). Fortunately not the sort to spend all the driving time talking on their cellphones. They were great, especially Michael and Daniel - Hosea was lovely, but drove very fast at times, without explaining we were heading to see something!
On that score - we were so lucky with what we saw; we saw everything! The big 5 (several times); the Samburu 5; so many of the cat family - right down tothe elusive serval, and the Caracal!
We absolutely loved our time in Kenya and Tanzania, and owe many thanks to Silas for his experience and planning.
CN
Email Zhou Huijing | 20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Most memorable and unforgettable trip of this year!
This was our first trip to Kenya, and our guide, Big Tom, made it an unforgettable experience. Tom was incredibly dedicated throughout the journey, ensuring that we visited all the key attractions and went out of his way to accommodate every request we had. Despite our packed schedule, he was always nice and professional, taking great care of us every step of the way. Tom's expertise was evident as he guided us to see a wide variety of animals. His driving skills were excellent, and he managed our time perfectly, ensuring we made the most of each day. We felt safe and well looked after throughout the trip. We highly recommend this travel agency and especially Tom for anyone planning a trip to Kenya!
CN
Email Li Yang | 20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Best memory of the year with apodiformes!
We were on a Safari adventure in Kenya on the end of July. It was truly a splendid journey. A heartfelt thank you to Fred for his patient communication throughout the preparation phase. Our guide, big Tom, exceeded all expectations with his dedication, vast experience, and unparalleled friendliness. He led us on an unforgettable journey, ensuring every moment was captured with awe and wonder. Tom is extremely dedicated and conscientious, ensuring that every request we make is meticulously fulfilled. He takes great care of us and goes above and beyond to satisfy our needs. A truly remarkable trip, thanks to the exceptional teamwork of Fred and Tom.
US
Email Kelsey | 20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Highly disappointed in our guide!
My partner and I hired Apodiformes Adventures as our guide group for our 5 day Safari in Kenya during the end of July through beginning of August, 2024. Overall our experience with the company was ok, but there were a number of things that came up during our trip that were less than ideal. I have never written a critical review before but felt obliged to do so after reading the review from a group that hired Apodiformes a week or two prior to us, which mirrored our trip to a near uncanny level. As a point of reference, this is my tenth trip to Africa, second trip to Kenya, and I’ve spent a cumulative 8+ months working around the continent. The challenges of running a tour business are not lost on me, but there are certain items that could be easily remedied, and tour guides should be held to standard.
First, we had outstanding communication with the company during the planning process of the trip and were very pleased with the level of attention to detail provided by Fred who handled our booking. We received notice of the name of our guide the day prior to arrival and arranged a pickup at 7:30 am. Our guide assigned was Ken who picked us up and took us to the parking lot of a nearby shopping center 15 minutes from our hotel to meet up with the representative from Apodiformes and pay the second half of our fees in cash. This is something that could easily have been handled in the hotel lobby from the standpoint of making things feel more “professional” but not a big deal. We then started traveling to our destination of the Masai Mara where we were anticipating a half day game drive to start the trip. When we were first picked up from the hotel I noticed that the back tire of the vehicle was very low, but not fully flat. An hour into the drive, we pulled over into a side street and a guy began to change the tire. During this time, Ken never mentioned that we needed to get the tire fixed or even that we would be stopping. While this only took about 45 min to an hour, this cut into the time of our game drive and is something that easily could have been remedied the day prior to pickup since it was clearly noticed, or at least we could have been notified of when we first started the day and we would have been very understanding. These vehicles take a beating and things often break, it is understandable.
On the way to the Mara and throughout the vast majority of our trip, Ken was continuously on his phone with various calls and texts to the level that if I were to ask a question after he got off the phone, his phone would ring again before I could even get the question out. I’ll not belabor the point, but Ken would answer questions when directly asked (at times with a one word answer) but would very rarely offer information, guidance or discuss plans unless we brought it up first. This was the theme throughout the course of the trip.
Eventually we made it to the Mara and had a great evening drive. To his credit, Ken is an incredible driver. He was always able to get us right in the action, was able to communicate well with the other drivers, and could find us a variety of wildlife. I really appreciate his efforts in making all that happen and led to us overall having a positive experience on the various game drives.
Our first night stay we were told that the lodge we were to be staying at overbooked and that we would be moved to a new lodge – not a big deal however this was not communicated until we were almost at the replacement lodge. Overall the accommodations were good and seemed to be of similar quality to the intended location, but just raised an eyebrow. Either way, the accommodations that night were ok.
The next few days followed this general course with limited communication from Ken minus a few good conversations we were able to engage him in with some prodding. We were never really asked about our preferences, what we wanted to do/see, but when we directly asked he was accommodating and was generally good natured.
On our 4th of 5 days when we arrived at our last lodge we were told that we could have lunch and then go on the intended boat ride. Of note, the boat tour included a 45 minute walking tour through a preserve off-trail which neither Ken nor the staff let us know about. Thank goodness we wore boots rather than the sandals we were considering wearing because it was a “boat tour”. When we met up with Ken for the boat ride he told us something about a “terrible problem” that had happened to the vehicle and that it would need to be in the shop, meaning he could no longer drive us. He arranged a driver the following day to “take us back to Nairobi in the morning,” not mentioning the fact that we were planning to go to Hells Gate for a tour before returning. Because we had assumed we were getting back in the vehicle after lunch we had not fully cleaned/removed our goods from the safari vehicle, I thought that I had left my hat and asked him about it. He said he would give it the the driver for the next day and though I found the hat in my bag the following day, he never messaged or communicated that he did not find it in the vehicle. Given that the previous group on the review boards experienced the same “sudden vehicle trouble”, this is either a habit of Ken or Apodiformes in order to free the vehicle up a day early.
The driver who picked us up the following day was AWESOME. Great guy, very personable, super helpful. Went out of his way to help us have a good experience and even drove us around Nairobi looking for fabrics. A+ overall. Of note: His vehicle was a standard hatchback van and not a safari vehicle, so if we had planned on a driving safari through Hells Gate the following day rather than opting for a bicycle tour, this would have significantly diminished the experience. Finally, we had been told on the first day that the rep from the company would meet with us back at the hotel when we returned to Nairobi to close the loop, but never heard from them again after the first day. I was hoping to provide this feedback to them in person but did not get the opportunity.
My purpose of posting this review is to note that overall, we had a good time because my partner and I enjoyed each other’s company in the beautiful natural wonders that Kenya has to offer, and all of the lodges and parks we visited had outstanding staff that were exceedingly warm and welcoming. It seems that Apodiformis Adventures has a few quality improvement points to work on with their team. While I much prefer to provide feedback directly to companies rather than posting on a public forum, the similarities to the previously posted experience tell me that this is something systemic that needs to be addressed.
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Email Jon | 20-35 years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
Communicative but does make changes to itinerary
Dickson was an great guide that respected the animals and pacing of the trip. He was patient and flexible with our scheduling. I would highly recommend him as a guide.
In terms of the company we worked with Syprose who did make some changes mid trip but took care of things like our lost luggage and items.
Ultimately be careful with what lodges and activities they book or change to as they may make changes after the original agreement is made or not as ideal locations.
US
Email Diana | 50-65 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Great planning with wonderful experienced driver/guides for both Kenya and Tanzania
My mother and I did the 12 day golden safari tour of Kenya and Tanzania. Silas did really great booking everything and Lio our Kenya driver/guide and Vincent were both really experienced amazing guides and drivers.
We went in early July and if I had done more research I would have booked for mid-august or so for our tour since the migration can take place anytime between July and October and the beach weather was cooler and a bit rainy so I didn't get as much beach time as I was hoping.
I was surprised to find that we had the entire vehicle to ourselves so be aware that you can work with Apodiformes to change any itinerary before you book everything. Also if you have a larger party take smaller items since there is not a lot of space to put luggage in the vehicle you will be traveling in. You will mostly just be riding in a vehicle all day so you do not need to be in shape at all. I for some reason thought we would have nature walks, but it was really about getting up early and going out all day to see the animals.
I recommend googling every park and time of year to see what is more the peak time to go depending on your interests. If you go for the migration and visit the Serengeti I would make sure you get one night in northern Serengeti since most of the zebra's and wildebeest will most likely be up there and depending on where you stay the travel time from masai mara to serengeti can be quite long. We went Amboseli and it was amazing, watching the elephants cross the road at night or early in the morning was such a wonderful site, however in July Mt Kilamanjaro is mostly cloud covered to my understanding so take these into consideration. And of course the animals will do what the want, if it is a nice sunny day you will have a great game drive, if it is colder and cloudy or too hot and you might not see much. Also I thought lake Nakuru was the most beautiful place I have ever seen and the only place we got a good view of rhinos (the flamingos had left for better food sources) and we were only there for a little over 4 hours because it just takes a while to get there from Nairobi so think about what you really want to see to spend more time at one place. It is hard to say what I would have changed other than the time we started our trip, but 12 days was a long time to sit in a vehicle so I think maybe it would have been good to do 4-5 days of safari then beach time and then maybe switch it up to go see chimpanzees, but when you travel so far (we came from the California) it is hard to know what to cut out since it all sounds amazing. I guess you just have to decide what you want to see the most. For me I would probably stick with Nakuru lake, Masai Mara and/or Northern Serengeti, and Amboseli but I love the beautiful trees, lakes, and birds. In any case you can't go wrong with Apodiformes, although I recommend you request Lio to be your guide and driver.
Apodiformes Adventure is just great!!!
We would like to express our many thanks to Silas of the Apodiformes Adventures for the organization of our 13-day private safari. It was a great tour!!! Our guide Tom in Kenya and Emanuel in Tanzania are both very experienced and tried their best to let us see what we would like to and we do appreciate it very much.