MJ Safaris & Adventure
- Office In:
- Size:
- 20-50 employees (Founded in 1984)
- Member Of:
- TATO & EAWLS
- Tour Types:
- Custom budget & mid-range tours that can start every day
- Destinations:
- Price Range:
- $230 to $990 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 Rahul | 20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
An honest review by a solo traveler doing a budget safari
This is my honest review as an American solo traveler doing a budget safari (as a student who's on a budget). I thoroughly cover pros and cons and encourage anyone seriously considering MJ to closely read this. In summary, MJSafari is an absolutely phenomenal operator for the value you end up getting for $190-$200/day, and you can rest assured it is reliable and solid. Best of all, you can pay with credit card (they prefer cash but if you don't want to carry all that cash with you traveling abroad, you can pay in advance (it's like 3% extra with card, which is fine)).
I'm pretty risk averse and spent more time than I'm willing to admit looking for the right operator. I saw a high amount of good reviews on Safari Bookings; I was also already in Tanzania and so was able to call Jackson (the point of contact) who was extremely helpful answering all my questions. I did a 5 day/4 night group safari through Ngorongoro, Serengetti, Tarangire, and Lake Manyara in March. For most of you all reading this, you'll probably end up emailing him a bunch if you're not already in Tanzania.
I did a budget-joining safari where I was a solo traveler and joined a group already set to travel. MJSafaris also offers private safaris, and I can't comment on those; they might cost more since it's your own jeep, but your experience will be better and you have more flexibility with your schedule and how long you spend in each park. Even if you're looking to do a private safari, I would still recommend MJ based on my experience with their group safari
First off, with safaris, you need to understand the nature of a "budget joining safari." It's not necessarily one big company. This is a few different companies that pool their staff/jeeps together so that they give you the flexibility of joining a group safari on any given day and any given itinerary. This is extremely useful if you're a solo traveler and want to visit 4 locations, even as 5 other people in your very same jeep want to only visit 3 (this was my case: I was traveling with a group who had just summited Kili with MJ; after we all saw 3 parks together, they left back for Moshi and I saw Lake Manyara with just one other person. If you look below and see a review by Marcia K, that's the group I joined :) ). Only a budget joining safari will let you see any # of places you want, starting on any given day, without paying a ridiculous sum of money.
If you try to book your VERY own safari itinerary with other companies, you will be paying substantially more since it is private. For a 5 day safari, that can mean the difference between paying $900-$1000 vs $2000-$3000. Though at the end of the day, you are visiting the same exact locations as the other companies. Your jeeps are next to their jeeps and you're watching the same animals. Even as some people say you get what you pay for, I really didn't see the need to pay 2-3x more money considering what I got with MJ. Save your money.
Let me now explain the trade offs. For instance, some mornings, you may want to be in the jeep as early as possible, and you may be told to be ready by 8 AM to start your 2 hr journey to the next park, but you may not actually get on the road to the next park until 9 AM. You'll see some reviews below get irked by this. If you pay 2-3x the money for your own safari, then you can tell your safari operator to start whenever you want (e.g., before sunrise) and create your own custom itinerary. For me, it was a trade off I was completely fine with given the money I was spending. $190/day is actually a really good deal, and we saw some incredible stuff on the game drives. And don't worry, you will still do some sunrise safaris: we did one in Serengetti, which was awesome. But generally speaking, with a budget joining safari, things will be a bit more chill with the staff; they may start the safari later than you want, but not by that much. You still get to see things for a good amount of the day. And it does not hinder your enjoyment (particularly if you know to expect it). I'm just objectively covering pros and cons here and want to make sure people reading these reviews understand that you're not completely controlling the itinerary (like on my safari we spent 1 day in Serengeti, which was awesome, but if you want to spend 2-3 days in Serengetti, then you may not be able to do that unless you arrange for your own private safari, which is pricey).
They have a lot of drivers; from the ones we had experience with, the best ones are Nelly and Tony. Try to request either of them. Nelly is the best in my opinion. Spotted animals with eagle eyes, talked about the animals a lot, etc.
If you're still reading this massive wall of text, you might be like me and be a bit hesitant as to what to do: you're about to make a big decision and spend a lot of money in a foreign country. I can absolutely assure you MJSafaris is a solid company to commit to. Like I said earlier you can pay with credit card. Even though it's 3% extra I prefer this b/c if something super unexpected happens, you can always dispute with your credit card company (it's like an insurance mechanism, though MJSafaris is a pretty well established and reliable company so you don't have to worry about that; still, I prefer for things to be documented in paper that I paid, without bringing a titanic sum of cash abroad).
I had read some of the rare 1 and 2 star reviews below and certainly had some concerns (again, it's a budget joining safari, so there might be an occasional hiccup; you have to prepare for it potentially happening). I did not experience any problems at all. Jackson was also extremely, extremely gracious to give me a complementary ride BACK to the airport from my hotel in Moshi since I spent a night there after my safari (it's normally $40 by taxi and he could have easily charged me, which he didn't, and so I still tipped the driver $15).
Even as you look at other reviews for other companies and are still debating which company given that it's a fairly big decision, I can attest that this is a well established company you can trust--one that will give you an excellent value for the money you spend, particularly if you're a solo traveler, or even if you're a giant group. Safe travels and good luck with your decision. And to MJ Safaris if you're reading: thanks for a great experience!
"This company met my expectations"
Jackson from MJ Safaris was prompted to answer my questions from day one. I had an amazing time in Tanzania, got myself a private 6 days game drive, and glad I did, more freedom in terms of photography. Thanks to my guide Jimmy, we were able to see the big 5. Amazing scenery and beautiful fauna. Good food cooked by my private chef.
Hakuna Matata, they will take good care of you, get ready for a complete and total escape...
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Email Mahendra Sagar | 50-65 years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
Excellent Budget Joining Safari, Good Driver/Guide, Excellent Service
I contacted MJ Safaris based on reviews here and Jackson Lyimo promptly responded to my questions and provided info. Jackson provided a bit of discount to bring the price down to $950 for 5D/4N safari, including pickup from Moshi in a local bus/shuttle and drop-off to KIA airport at the end of safari. I paid a deposit via Credit Card and the remainder at the beginning of Safari in Arusha (in both cash $ as well as Tanzania currency).
This was a budget joining safari meaning people join as and when they are ready to start their safari. On the first day, we were only 2 but the remaining 4 days, we had a full house of 6. The accommodation on all 4 days was basic. First day in Panorama Camp, we had an African Igloo Hut while the remaining 2 nights in Serengeti and one on the Ngorongoro Crater we had our own tents that were carried on top of the safari vehicle. A cook was with us all five days who would make food and you could get vegetarian food - but do specify your requirements so they can buy things in advance in Arusha - once you are in Serengeti, there is nothing you can get anywhere (Hint: buy your own food in Arusha before the safari starts).
Our driver/guide Emmanuel was courteous and helpful and could spot all kinds of creatures. We were very lucky to see Cheetahs over 7 times and a Rhino up close! That was the highlight of the trip. If you want to see wild creatures in their natural habitat, this safari is a must. We also visited a Maasai Village on our way out of Serengeti and that was another highlight of the trip.
Again, since this was a budget joining safari, no matter who you book with, you might join the same group! However, MJ Safaris was a trustworthy and reliable agency that provided all the services they promised and I have no hesitation in recommending them highly.
A final note: a Chinese girl on our safari paid only $800 for the exact 5d/4n safari but she came at the last moment so if you can join at the last moment, you might be able to get the best prices!
Email Erling & Lesly | 50-65 years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
Kilimanjaro 6 day Machame route
Godfrey Mbyallu and his assistant Mr G ran the tour.
100% recommended this team! You will enjoy your time and be very well looked after.
If I return, I would only want to do the climb with these guides and their team.
Some details:
1. Godfrey checked our clothing at the hotel. They strongly recommended some additions eg warm snow pants. Some we had to rent at a very reasonable price, some they let us have for the duration of the hike.
2. Godfrey was the leader and excellent at his job. He hand selected his team. His number 2, Mr G was a big man with a big heart! Trekking with them was a bit like travelling with a family. When you trek with them, you will understand why this was a great aspect of this team.
3. “Polepole” means “slowly slowly“. The first day is short and you can walk fast. Don’t! Walk at Godfrey’s pace. As you get higher and the mountain is steeper, you will need to have found your slow walking tempo.
4. The camp is always set up for you when you arrive thanks to the amazing porters. You get hot water to the wash your hands, then some snacks and hot water for tea or coffee. Later, soup arrives (always delicious), followed by a main course.
5. Breakfast included eggs, sausages, bread ...
6. Do a lot of walking before this track. It is way harder than the Inca trail. Way harder! Google training hints for Kilimanjaro - the fitter you are the more fun you will have.
7. Google the Kilimanjaro song. They sing it a lot and is cool if you can eventually join in. These guys are good singers and take every chance to do so!
8. Jackson was the person we organised the tour with. He manages MJ Safaris. He was very prompt to answer all our questions and was very helpful.
Our thanks again to Jackson, Godfrey, Mr G, the cook, the waiter and all the porters!
Email Paula Shepherd | 50-65 years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
Budget safari that delivered all that was promised
Right from the start all our e-mails were answered the same date, communication was excellent. I was worried about booking with a budget company, but as we wanted to do safari and a Kilimanjaro climb, it soon be came clear how expensive it would be with other holiday firm's. Mj's was in our price range and we were more than happy with the service, from being met at the airport to being delivered back, all went to plan and we had a fantastic from.
Our Safari guide Nelly, was great, informative, fun and very protective. He made our Safari experience wonderful. Also two of our group went on to summit Kilimanjaro, Machame route and the guides were helpful and looked after one of us that struggled with the excersion and altitude, to make sure he was able to reach the summit, then get him down quickly. All the food was great and tastie on safari and on the mountain. Tents were good quality and vehicles were good, I am sure we had a just as good experience compared to people who had paid a lot more for their holidays. Also the Keys annex hotel we stayed in before, inbetween and after was great, helpful fun stayed, lovely food and nice bar and really comfortable need, which are heaven after your Kilimanjaro climb. Really, if you are in any doubt about booking with Mj's, go ahead. They really do deliver what they say and I am sure you will have a great time.
IQ
Email Ahmed Shkara | 20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Amazing experience
Kilimanjaro 6 day Machame route
5/5
Godfrey Mbyallu and his assistant Mr G ran the tour.
100% recommended this team! You will enjoy your time and be very well looked after.
Some details:
1. Godfrey checked our clothing at the hotel. They strongly recommended some additions eg warm snow pants. Some we had to rent at a very reasonable price, some they let us have for the duration of the hike.
2. Godfrey was the leader and excellent at his job. He hand selected his team. His number 2, Mr G was a big man with a big heart! Trekking with them was a bit like travelling with a family. When you trek with them, you will understand why this was a great aspect of this team.
3. “Polepole” means “slowly slowly“. The first day is short and you can walk fast. Don’t! Walk at Godfrey’s pace. As you get higher and the mountain is steeper, you will need to have found your slow walking tempo.
4. The camp is always set up for you when you arrive thanks to the amazing porters. You get hot water to the wash your hands, then some snacks and hot water for tea or coffee. Later, soup arrives (always delicious), followed by a main course.
5. Breakfast included eggs, sausages, bread ...
6. Do a lot of walking before this track. Google training hints for Kilimanjaro - the fitter you are the more fun you will have.
7. Google the Kilimanjaro song. They sing it a lot and is cool if you can eventually join in. These guys are good singers and take every chance to do so!
8. Jackson was the person we organised the tour with. He manages MJ Safaris. He was very prompt to answer all our questions and was very helpful.
Our thanks again to Jackson, Godfrey, Mr G, the cook, the waiter and all the porters!
Email Kennedy Otieno | 35-50 years of age
Excellent/timely service, very accomdative and understandning fellows.
I got into contact with MJ Safaris/Trekking Heroes after running the Kilimanjaro Marathon in 2019 as I stayed at YMCA Moshi were their offices are located. Abu(Jacksons brother) welcomed me so warmly and answered all my queries and gave me Jacksons contacts. Fast forward to February 2020 I made my initial deposit with the aim of hiking Kilimanjaro in Late March/Early April 2020 then Covid struck. Jackson Lyimo was so accommodative and understanding and assured me that my deposit was safe and I could hike the mountain whenever I was ready. On saturday 24th July 2021(almost a year and a half later) after finishing a work assignment in Moshi I popped into their office to check if I could do the hike, much to my amazement Jackson Lyimo and his brother Abu(this is the guy mostly at the office) organized everything and I started my hike on Sunday 25th a 5 day hike via the Marangu route, I did not have the hiking gear which they provided at amazingly reasonable fees for hire, despite the park fees having been reviewed up by the Tanzanian government I was not charged any extra fees based on the fact that I had paid my deposit almost a year and a half earlier. The hiking guide Athumani was one of the nicest, easy going fellows I have ever interacted with and is well versed with any info regarding safaris and hikes and the cook was excellent serving hot meals every other day, I was so well taken care of during the entire hike duration despite having haggled so hard to get discounted prices for the hike. Would recommend MJ Safaris/Trekking Heroes any day anytime for budget safaris and hikes in Tanzania
CH
Email Dingo | 50-65 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Nr 1
Only the best in town! No comment
JP
Email Richard | 50-65 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Great trip in Tanzania. Must go with MJ safaris.
I visited Tanzania last September included climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro and Safari.
Mr. Athuman attended myself for climbing Mt. kilimanjaro, which I selected Lemosho route for 8days.
He has more than 300 times which guide to the summit. So it is enough experience, especially last attacking to the summit. He helped myself very much to guide to the summit.
Also Mr. Nelly guided to the Safari, included Tarangire, Ngorongoro crater and Serengeti field. He showed many nature and animals politely.
These guys are very friendly and professional. You may feel relaxing and enjoy Tanzania very much. I recommend 100%.
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Email Jessica Ritchie | 20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
The experience I had with MJ Safaris was amazing.
The experience I had with MJ Safaris was amazing. Our short safari to the Serengeti and Ngorongoro went flawlessly, from airport collection to drop-off.
Our guide, Valerian, was incredibly knowledgeable, experienced, and had exceptional animal identification abilities. Additionally, he was very flexible, accommodating our requests and making sure we got everything we wanted from the trip!