US
65+ years of age | Experience level: first safari
A seamless adventure, exceeding my expectations.
Communications with Ute were excellent. She offered help with our airline reservations (which I had made myself) when things got a little messed up.
We had no knowledge of how to plan our trip, or what to expect. Everything we had hoped to be able to do, we accomplished. The safari itself was stunning, wonderful accommodations and extremely professional and knowledgable guides. The assistance and advice we received made our trip memorable.
35-50 years of age | Experience level: over 5 safaris
A beautiful country which offers visitors a wide variety of bush experiences.
Most people who travel to South Africa have two key destinations on their itinerary: Cape Town, and Kruger National Park. While both are fantastic holiday options, there is so much more to the country than that, and if you’re contemplating a visit to South Africa, you really should consider travelling to other areas too. South Africa offers such varied bush experiences and while many of the parks pale in comparison to the size of Kruger, when it comes to gorgeous landscapes and game-viewing opportunities, they certainly give Kruger a run for its money.
The province of KwaZulu-Natal, for example, has outstanding parks in its northern regions. Up here, in the land that once was ruled over by Shaka Zulu, it is classic rhino country and there are a number of parks, such as Hluhluwe-Imfolozi and Phinda, where you’re likely to see the Big Five. Many parks up here also offer the chance to go on walking safaris – guaranteed to give you a totally different perspective of life in the bush.
The landscape varies vastly across the country, and if you’re a keen photographer, parks like Golden Gate, Camdeboo, Pilanesburg, Karoo and the Kgalagadi will be an absolute delight. In these parks, the sheer scale of vast open spaces will almost dwarf the wildlife, and shooting during the golden hours will be an absolute treat.
It is very easy to self-drive in South Africa – in fact, it’s recommended. The quality of the roads is good, especially between the major cities, and taking a road trip through this country will reveal some of its quirks and hidden corners. If you are going to do the classic Kruger/Cape Town holiday, consider taking a week or so to drive between the two, and stop off at parks like Golden Gate, Addo Elephant Park, Mountain Zebra National Park. You’ll be so glad you did.
CA
65+ years of age | Experience level: over 5 safaris
Pembury Tours made our vacation trip seamless and fun
We had questioned renting a car in Cape Town to tour the game farms in Port Elizabeth area. After extremely helpful communications with Kerry at Pembury tours we chose to fly from Cpt. To P.E. Where we were cheerfully greeted by Willie who took us to Lalibella Game farm then picked us up there and took us to Ado National Elephant Park. We spent two nights at each location. The stays were wonderful and our travels with Willie included informative and entertaining discussion. The guide at Lalibella was a young fellow named Juan. He was amazing and bubbled with enthusiasm. He could make the vegetation as exciting as the wildlife. In the long run the cost of flying and being escorted was similar to renting a vehicle but gave two extra days to enjoy. We travelled with another couple and they too thoroughly enjoyed the experience.
Review about South Africa by Ken A.
Perfect for a first safari. All of the wildlife I was hoping to see, and more, with accessible and luxurious accommodations.
20-35 years of age | Experience level: over 5 safaris
Uganda, The ultimate "off the beaten track" destiantion in Africa!
Uganda is often linked with gorillas and chimpanzees. The apes are the countries main attraction and adds something extra compared to other more traditional safari destinations. However, Uganda has so much more to offer with some great game parks, unique boat safari's in 3 different national parks, huge forest areas, waterfalls, matoke (bananas) everywhere, mountains with snow, stunning lakes, volcanoes and the friendliest people in the world! On top of that you can venture off the beaten track by going to unspoiled game parks like Kidepo Valley NP. What about visiting unspoiled tribes in the east of the country (karamajong) or hike the Rwenzori Mountains. For real travelers Uganda is a MUST!
CA
50-65 years of age
Review about Serengeti National Park by ivanabee
Serengeti has to be a top ten on everyone's bucket list.
Thoroughly Satisfied!
The greatest thing that I can say about Big Time Safaris in Kenya is that they have such an open style of communication. It is their desire to meet ones travel needs and to assure that each is treated well. Another aspect that I absolutely liked is the great variety of tour opportunities as well as the differential in prices depending on how much one enjoys being catered. The Kenya tour focusing on Masai Mara was outstanding both with the venues and guides. I could not ask for more.
20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Review about Kenya by glynis2
The beauty of the landscape and the variety of wildlife left me breathless. I have never been on safari in another country to compare, but in Kenya they really value the tourism industry and they work hard to make sure you have the best experience possible. The tour guides are well trained and very knowledgeable about all the wildlife and the parks/reserves. The staff at all the lodges also worked hard to provide a high level of service. Safety is also the highest priority. Also, in my opinion, no safari trip is complete without a trip to the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust which raises baby elephant orphans. It's located just outside Nairobi and is the perfect way to either begin or end your safari experience. I will be going back to Kenya for sure!
35-50 years of age
Saw all the wildlife you can imagine in one place, very scenic
Beautiful place, with animals so used to the vehicles the lions even fell asleep leaning on one of the vehicles. Which really sums it up - so many tourists that they are used to being watched - for every lion a convoy of jeeps would appear.
Overall a good experience, but to see Tanzania you really need to get away to one of the more isolated parks such as Selous or Ruaha. We visited with Specialist Tanzania who organised an excellent holiday and I would not hesitate to recommend both the country and the company.
This was an amazing trip and I recommend Kenya Walking Survivors without reservation to everyone!
Kenya Walking Survivors Safari put a trip together for us that was in our budget and surpassed our expectations. The director responded promptly to our questions, picked us up at the airport, at the border, and made us feel like family. Our guide and cook were great and we always felt taken care of. I have only positive things to say and hope everyone gets to experience this type of trip!