29 day trip to East Africa
I recently embarked on a 29-day journey through East Africa, a trip that was initially planned to be shared with my husband, with whom I had a 10 year marriage. However, life had other plans, and this adventure turned out to be my first solo expedition after my painful divorce. It was a journey that was nothing short of transformative, and I owe a significant part of that to this company.
I’m literally emotional while writing this review, because I have only the fonddest memories of my time spent in all these countries. I visited Lalibela, I lost my luggage in Bujumbura, I saw the gorillas in Congo and Uganda, I trekked volcanoes, I did amazing safaris, I climbed to the top of Kilimanjaro and I snorkeled in Zanzibar. I did it all – and it was absolutely humbling.
From the moment I reached out to them, the team, led by Ms. Aina (and occasionally by Pius), demonstrated an unwavering commitment to ensuring that my experience was not just good, but extraordinary. Their dedication went far beyond the typical expectations of a travel agency. Their partners in Ethiopia (Armaye Tours), Congo (Exodus) and the Serengeti (Mr. Mur) were phenomenal. My contact with Mr. Ronnie, who escorted me from Burundi to Uganda is something I’ll treasure forever – to the point I was actually emotional when I had to say goodbye to him at Entebbe airport. My guides in Nairobi, Masai, and Zanzibar (and, to some extent, Kilimanjaro) weren’t that great, but even under these circumstances Aina was always 100% available to hear me and promptly react to whatever I said. She always had my back.
I never met Aina nor Pius in person, but my feeling is that they were not just organizers; they became my companions in this emotional and empowering voyage. Their constant communication, genuine concern for my well-being, and meticulous planning played a pivotal role in making this trip one for the books. I do travel a lot and have been to 123 countries, but I will always remember this trip. It wasn't just about the destinations; it was about the journey within.
The landscapes of Ethiopia, Burundi, Congo, Rwanda, Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania unfolded before me like chapters of a novel, each one contributing to my healing process. The support and kindness I received from the Magical Gorilla Adventures team added an unexpected and invaluable layer to the entire experience.
I can't emphasize enough how this journey became a symbol of resilience, strength, and newfound independence for me. Magical Gorilla Adventures didn't just facilitate a tour; they orchestrated a profound chapter of my life story.
If you are contemplating an adventure in East Africa, look no further! Their personalized touch, genuine care, and commitment to creating memorable experiences set them apart. Ms. Aina and Pius, thank you for turning what could have been a difficult trip into a celebration of self-discovery and empowerment. I’m forever grateful to you. Obrigado!