Makasa is owned & managed by Selma and Ngomi Kamm
Makasa Tanzania Safaris
- Located In:
- Size:
- 20-50 employees (Founded in 2009)
- Member Of:
- Tanzania Association of Tour Operators
- Tour Types:
- Custom mid-range & luxury tours that can start every day
- Destinations:
- Price Range:
- $300 to $2,000 per person per day (USD, excl. int'l flights)
Reviews
NL
Email heleen | 50-65 years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
fantastic
we have had an excellent safari; very well organised ; very nice and comfortable accomodation; we have seen a lot; we had a fantastic and knowledgable guide, with very good suggestions for our daily programme
ES
Email Jordi G | 50-65 years of age | Experience level: over 5 safaris
Great professionals ... extraordinary result!"
A few weeks ago, we made a safari with Makasa. Traveling with two girls, age 11 and 15, we were looking for an agency that offered a safari package designed for families. Makasa worked out perfectly. Our trip took place in late August 2016. Selma of Makasa sent us a daily detailed itinerary that included each night's accommodations. Every place we stayed on safari was incredible, much better than we expected with both luxury and service.
From our arrival at Kilimanjaro Airport until our departure at Dar es Salam 13 days later, we were perfectly taken care of by everyone involved. The first evening at Mosh, we had a delicious dinner at MCF Kilimanjaro Lodge, with beautiful gardens, very pleasant, ideal to recover after a long trip. Kilimanjaro Lodge is part of Mama Clementine Foundation: a secondary school for young girls in Tanzania. We had the first tastes of the local beers on their deck.
Next morning Selma, her husband and their newborn baby came to greet us before we began our 8-day safari. We also met who would be our guide, driver, and friend for the next 8 days, Humphrey, the best guide you can have. He was real fun, teaching us songs like Jambo, Jambo bwana, Habari gani, Mzuri sana. The vehicle was a 4WD safari vehicle equipped with a specially designed open panoramic roof (allowing you to stand in the vehicle to take pictures). Humphrey was a very responsible driver, very cautious and when we were stopped (which often happens) by the local Police, he was able to convince them quickly to let us drive through. As a guide, he was very professional, at each safari drive he was able to show us the big five game and the ugly five as well as many other animals, birds and trees. He was like a living dictionary, there was no question he could not answer regarding the animals we saw and the places we visited.
Afterwards, we left to Olpopongi Masai, a village some 3 or 4 hours’ drive from Mosh on the foothills of Kilimanjaro Mountain, which we had the fortune to see clearly that evening. We really appreciated having the first night at Olpopongi, as it allowed us or understand and appreciate the Masai way of life, as we encountered many more Masai along the way. You spend the night in a real hut, made by women; the Masai people tend to your needs, cook for you, dance/sing and demonstrate their traditional ways. They take you out on a bush walk to show you how and where they gather their herbs for medicines, tea making and hut-building materials, the incredible 96-year-old 'grandma' will prepare their special herbal tea for you! At night, sit round a central fire after dinner and watching the stars!
Day 2 of our safari took us to Lake Manyara that offers dense forests, rivers and the lake. We saw enormous concentrations of baboons. Afterwards, we headed to Croatia Valley Lodge, located on the boundary of Ngorongoro Reserve. A wonderful, truly special place, we were very happy to spend the night there. After a night at Olpopongi, the luxury of this lodge was very much welcomed. We visited the Children’s Home, an orphanage for those kids whose family cannot take care of them, a project supported by the owners of the Lodge. The Lodge is composed of 15 tents, an open dining area; the food comes from their own gardens. Visiting Croatia Valley allows you to experience a sustainable and self-sufficient Lodge while showing solidarity with the orphanage that is maintained by the Dutch hosts. All the personnel were very kind and we wished we had stayed more nights!
The next day we drove to Serengeti, this endless plain offered us an abundance of wild animals that we saw at close range, many lions, cheetahs, leopards as well as elephants, buffaloes, giraffes, zebras, etc. … and a few gazelles ;).
At Serengeti, we spent 3 nights at beautiful Kubu Tented Lodge, which had only been open for about 3 months when we arrived. It was the best accommodation during our 13-day trip.
The setting of the Lodge is perfect, it is located on a hill; from the terrace and the cabins, and you can admire the vast plains of Serengeti and watch the animals below migrate in search for water.
When it gets dark, two Masai warriors, for safety reasons, must escort you back to the cabin since there were wild animals (gazelles, zebras, buffaloes, and wildebeest) just a few meters from our room! At night, you could hear the lions roar and the hyenas hunting nearby.
Our family cabin was huge, with two rooms, a huge balcony and incredible views. All the drinks (including alcoholic beverages) were complimentary. Finally, our girls went swimming every afternoon at the infinity pool, maybe the most beautiful pool we have ever seen, you can take the most amazing photos of the pool with the Serengeti background.
After Serengeti, we visited Ngorongoro, a unique crater known as a caldera. Nearly all the big wild animals can be seen in the crater. Apart from large herds of zebra and wildebeest, we saw many lions and finally the black rhinoceros. Thanks so much, Humphrey!
We stayed the last 2 nights of the safari at Endoro Lodge, also located on the edge of Ngorongoro Reserve.
Next, we visited Zanzibar for 5 days staying at Kilima Kidogo at Paje, an ideal place to disconnect from the world, to enjoy the sun and sea at one of Zanzibar’s best beaches! It was really nice, good food and friendly staff. There are many games for the kids, ping-pong, a pool table! Kilima Kidogo is a small place; there aren’t many guests, which creates a sense of exclusivity, life in slow-motion. We must highlight the hospitality of its owner, Dina, who was waiting for us at the airport, and the rest of the staff carrying out their work with passion and trying to please the most pampered guests. Good food and possibility of beautiful excursions. A place to return someday!
Helpful notes: Bring dollars in small bills (especially 1 and 5 dollar bills for the tips) but we also used local shillings that ended up being useful also, you can get them from ATM at Arusha.
No need to get your visa in advance. When you arrive at the airport we payed $50 in cash for each of us. In addition, people should have their own binoculars. It makes spotting and observing extra fun.
Finally, from the comments we heard from other visitors, we would recommend skipping Lake Manyara visit and choosing instead Tarangire National Park.
NL
Email Esther | 35-50 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Super holiday!!!
Thank you Makasa fore the perfect holiday to Tanzania.
We've seen so much in Selous Game Reserve!!
Accomodation at Rufiji River camp and the mediteraneo hotel were perfect.
Tima tours for transportation is alsof Very recommended.
It was our first trip to Tanzania and for certain, not our last!!!
from beginning untill the end of our trip everything was perfectly arranged!!
US
Email Babu and Bibi | 65+ years of age | Experience level: first safari
Lucky Safari -- all due to the wildlife guide and the careful guidance of Makasa.
Our experience in Tanzania was above and beyond any hopes or expectations we may have had. Makasa Wildlife Guide Jamal Minja was an extraordinary person. Not only did he spot and guide us to some experiences we could never have hoped for (leopards, black rhinos, many thousands of others), but he worked with us as an older and handicapped couple -- always saying, "Babu (Grandfather), this is your vacation." He knew all the wildlife and taught us so much that I couldn't believe it. I loved the Swahili language and Jamal patiently worked with me on basic phrases. A gentleman, intelligent, and patient person - but always respecting the rules and regulations for the wildlife - and I just can't tell you how important that was to us. For example, Mr. Minja found a place where three black rhinos were together (miraculous, because not only are they few and endangered but also are solitary animals). Some guides were driving their vehicles across the land to get a closer look for their "tipping" clients, but Jamal explained that was illegal and harmful. Not for a million years would I have wished to contravene those regulations, and thank you Makasa for giving us a wise guide to help us enjoy "God's Parks." Kwaheri.
From the very first contact with Makasa till the last say goodbye to our personal guide: marvellous!
First we climbed the Kilimanjaro. A private climb with the three of us and 16(!) Tanzanian companions. Very professional guide and assistent guide, Issa and Gerardi. Very friendly as well. Great respect for cook, waiter and porters. Thanks to all of them we made it. Very tough, but a lot of fun.
After Kili on a 9 day safari with another driver/guide, Humphrey. Very fanatical with full knowledge. We loved it. Didn't expect to see that much!
Thank you Makasa, Selma and Ngomi, for 18 wonderful days in our lives. It was great to be with you! Maybe except for one thing: coming back from Kili we wanted so much to have a shower; there was, but the water was cold ..., that should not be.
BE
Email Bryan | 20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Absolutely lovely from start to finish
We had organised the 7 day safari with Makasa and everything was perfect. The organisation / lodges / taxi pick-up / guide / extra coffee tour were all topnotch!
It was our first safari, but will definitely not be the last.
You get to personalise your own trip with lots of help and tips from Selma. Via email everything went smooth, lots of answers quickly.
We were very happy to have chosen Makasa instead of the many overpriced tour operators in Arusha.
We paid way less for a private safari than some companies were charging for shared safari (which I definitely would not recommend).
NL
Email Hein & Akkie Daams | 65+ years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
Fourth time a Makasa safari and again a hit
For the fourth time we made a safari with Makasa. This time was the main goal the crossing of the wildebeests in the North Serengeti.
As usual is the communication with Selma and Ngomi pleasant and clear. They understand the client's needs very well. And every time we are supprised about the different choices of the tented camps.
Doing Safari with driver/guide David is every time a gift. His knowledge of the flora and fauna is excellent and he has real hawkey eyes. Highlights of this safari were the several crossing of the Mara River and of course the luck we had to see the pangolin at the last day of our stay in the Serengeti
DE
Email Harry | 35-50 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Great Team - Great Experiences
Makasa did an excellent job at organising our trip. They picked the perfect lodges and accommodations, according to our tastes and budgets. The staff (drivers, safari guides, mountain guides) were 100% competent, reliable and always an enjoyable company to be with during the trips. In case of problems one can always reach the owners via email or phone and they will find a solution (in our case: organising medical care and re-scheduling due to unforeseen sickness).
We did a 4 weeks tour, starting with a trip on the Mt. Meru, covering three of the major national parks and ending on the beach in Zanzibar. Makasa proved to be a fully competent one-stop-shop for the entire trip. They have an extended network of business partners and family members over the country that their guests can benefit from. No need to find a driver, park ranger or a safari guide or mountain porter – they’ll do it for you and you just relax and enjoy the safari.
We chose Makasa because close friends of ours booked with them the previous year and recommended them to us – now we will recommend them further.
CA
Email Maureen | 35-50 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Amazing experience - everyone should have the chance to go!
Makasa provided our family of 4 (2 adults and 2 teenagers) with a trip of a lifetime. Selma was so accommodating and easy to communicate with. Frank, our guide through our Safari, was amazing. Dina, in Zanzibar, made us feel like we were at home. The people of Tanzania are friendly, welcoming and so kindhearted. The wildlife was unbelievable and the beaches of Zanzibar were beautiful!!
DE
Email Mike H | 35-50 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Highly Recommend Makasa and Mr. Rogaute!
1st time safari couple booked a private, honeymoon trip to Tanzania & Zanzibar with Makasa. We visited Tarangire, Ngorongoro, and Serengeti.
Booking process: Quite easy. Safari Bookings reviews were very helpful. The Makasa team was responsive and provided honest feedback. I did a bit of research beforehand and had an idea of what I wanted.
Payment process: Wired payment and got confirmation of receipt. No issues. There wasn’t much contact with Makasa afterwards, which made me a bit nervous, but we didn’t run into any issues
Arrival/Depature: There was a driver in Tanzania and Zanzibar to pick us up. Had no issue with pick-up or departure.
Driver: Our driver in Tanzania was Mr. Rogaute. He is a freelance driver (not sure how many Makasa trips) but was wonderful, 5-stars. To be clear, he’s not the super-always-upbeat type of person. Some people want, expect, or need a driver to entertain them. Not me. I’m more of an introvert and the wife is an extrovert. It worked out perfectly for us. He wasn’t always bouncing off the walls with energy that would have aggravated me after one day. But the wife is friendly enough to keep conversations going.
During points on our trip, we had some relatively open conversations about cultures and politics. Very, very pleased with Mr. Rogaute. He is a knowledgeable safari guide with nearly 15 years of experience and knew where to find the Big 5. In addition, he’s one heck of a driver who went above and beyond to ensure his clients were happy.
Tanzania Hotels:
Kaliwa Lodge: Off the beaten path a bit. There wasn’t an easy way to leave the hotel area to go to Moshi but we didn’t spend much time here. It was an ok hotel run by Germans with quite an extensive whiskey selection. Food was ok but they ran out of some items during dinner buffet.
Maramboi Tented Camp: Probably my favorite Tanzanian accomodation. I’d describe it as a luxury, tented camp. All inclusive, very kind people, decent food, great pool overlooking Lake Manyara, and we heard many animals outside our tent overnight.
Kati Kati: Located inside Serengeti. I was a bit apprehensive about this place. I’d describe it as an upscale, tented camp. For a honeymoon, I was hoping for more but this place won me over with the customer service and friendly people. Food was good and plentiful but be aware that there is no place to charge your phones in your own tent (must be done at the dining tent) and someone must fetch you water to shower (late showers were frowned upon since wildlife is around).
Endoro Lodge: A nice lodge that has an indoor fireplace (yes, we did take advantage of this). We didn’t need to worry about wild animals on the hotel grounds at this location so that was refreshing after staying in the Serengeti. Enjoyed our stay but internet in the dining area was a bit suspect. I also didn’t like that safari drivers weren’t allowed to eat with their clients. This was the only accommodation that had this policy in Tanzania that we stayed at.
Next Paradise (Zanzibar): Boutique hotel on the northeastern side of the island. Stuart (manager/owner) was very friendly. The food was delicious and focused on freshly caught seafood from nearby markets. The dinner menu is posted at 3pm daily. You can either get half board or full board included within price of hotel stay. Rooms very nice and the relaxation of the hotel was a nice contrast to the long days in the jeep while on safari.
There are ‘beach boys’ in the area trying to sell stuff but the hotel employs Masai men to keep them off hotel property. There is also a tennis court and table tennis available.
The airport is about 1 hour away; northern beaches 30 mins. We took 3 side trips during our stay; 2 booked at the hotel. Stone Town/Spice Tour and then a taxi to the northern beaches were both booked at Next Paradise. I feel it’s a bit pricey but we got our own taxi who picked us up and waited for us until we were ready to come back. We felt safe so it was worth the money – although we didn’t try to do any price comparisons. We also booked a Blue Safari through Makasa that sailed to nearby islands which included beach time, snorkeling, fruits, water, lobster lunch, and our own personal boat & guide.
Next Paradise is a nice hotel that I’d recommend if you want to relax and enjoy some very good seafood.