The review below is the personal opinion of QQ and not that of SafariBookings.
Poor Safari experience
First, regarding the full-day safari, The contract mentioned a full-day Safari, but what Patrick provided was not a full day. Patrick took us out daily from 8 AM to 4 PM, or from 8 AM to 12 PM and then from 4 PM to 6 PM. He said this was the park's requirement. However, as far as I know, other drivers booked through your company were out from 8 AM to 6 PM, or from 7 AM to 12 PM with lunch in the park and then from 4 PM to 7 PM. This does not align with your promise of a full-day Safari. Patrick’s actions were a significant breach of our agreement. He misrepresented the concept of a full-day safari, depriving us of valuable morning and evening game drive opportunities.
Except for Amboseli, where we stayed 2 km from the park, we were lodged inside the parks at Masai Mara, Nakuru, and Ol Pejeta. Therefore, we had ample time for full-day safaris, with no valid reason to return to the lodge early. Yet, Patrick insisted on bringing us back by 4 PM, citing non-existent park regulations. In contrast, other guides from your company provided a genuine full-day safari experience to their clients.
Second, while safaris are inherently unpredictable, this does not excuse a lack of skill in animal spotting. Our reduced game viewing time, confined mostly to the less active midday hours, undoubtedly decreased our chances of seeing animals. Given your extensive experience, you surely understand this impact better than I do.
Third, on the last day, Patrick refused our request to visit the Maasai market, citing safety concerns, theft, and distance, although our map indicated it was less than 30 minutes away and we had sufficient time.
Moreover, we learned that Patrick’s previous Chinese clients faced similar issues, such as being short-changed on safari duration, poor animal spotting, and being taken to overpriced souvenir shops.
We initially chose Africa Celebrity based on your reputed excellence. However, we are deeply disappointed by not only Patrick’s actions but also your company's failure to take responsibility and address these issues effectively.
Trust and respect are reciprocal, and regrettably, we did not feel either.
I hope no one else has to endure the dissatisfaction we faced due to a poor choice of safari provider.