PH
20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Incredible Safari Trip at Kruger Park
Despite the time difference between Asia and Africa, Kruger Park Travel answered our queries promptly and patiently (we had no idea what to expect as it was our first time to go on a safari).
They were very helpful with all our questions.
We chose to stay in the Sabie River Bush Lodge which was extremely comfortable (even the tent!).
The lodge is a bit of a drive away from Kruger Park so if you want to save on travel time and sleep (call time for the morning safari drives/morning bush walk are really early) you might want to stay in Skukuza instead (It's inside Kruger Park and nearer the souvenir shops but it's also busier). What we loved about the lodge was the intimate feel- it doesn't feel crowded plus the view of the river is superb. We saw a herd of elephants playing in the river on our last day.
We were in the tent the first night and the rooms on the succeeding nights. We chose this set up because we wanted to be adventurous and try the tent for at least 1 night.
The tent was much bigger than we expected but the lights were pretty dim but overall very comfortable with a huge bed and we had electricity inside. It was not what i envisioned a tent would be! I would have chosen the tent for our entire stay if I'd known how comfortable it would be. The view of the tent is also better compared to the rooms.
But the rooms were cosy and comfortable also. The staff were courteous and helpful. We also loved the food served to us.
But most of the rooms are strictly for 2 people only so clarify how many rooms you'll be getting.
For our first safari trip, our experience was incredible. The guides were very knowledgeable, helpful and courteous. We were able to see the Big 5 and then some.
Our sunset safari drive was with a big group (more than 20pax) so pick good seats for a great view of the animals (and unhindered photos!). It started at around 5:30pm and we ended at around 8pm.
If you don't mind long walks, go for the morning bush walk. It's worth the experience. We saw a herd of more than 30 elephants marching right ahead of us and a rhino sun bathing. But if you do this, wear earth colors (browns and leafy greens) so you won't scare the animals. We started walking at around 5:30am and our tour ended at around 8am.
We also had the all day safari (5:30am to 3pm) where we saw a leopard up close. The hard to find animals (leopards and lions) usually come out in the early morning when it's cooler so go for the morning safaris rather than the afternoon if you can only choose 1.
Try to visit the viewing deck also and be patient. While we were watching the hippos, an eagle swooped in, caught a fish, perched on a nearby branch and started eating it right in front of us.
You don't usually need binoculars to see the big animals unless they're really far but you'll need them to see the birds better.
The weather was tricky though- it's pretty chilly in the early mornings and it gets hot during the day but on our first night, we experienced strong winds and it got pretty cold. The next day, the evening was humid so it's smart to wear layers so you're prepared for any weather changes.
And do tip your guides as much as you can afford (or more if you're generous haha)! They'll appreciate it. :)
We appreciated the set up in Sabie River Bush Lodge because there's a tipping box at the Reception where you can give and they divide it equally among all the staff, not just the staff you often interact with (you can also tip via credit card).
Overall, a huge check in our bucket list and we'd definitely love to go back!
US
35-50 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Brilliant Safari and Cape Town Experience!
We had an amazing time on our recent trip to South Africa arranged by Marianne Birrell Safaris . We fell in love with both the Mt. Nelson Hotel and the &Beyond Ngala Safari Lodge. The staff at the "Nellie" went out of their way to help us with all kinds of crazy requests, including assistance with shipping two large boxes of African art we purchased. Further, we had a flight leaving at midnight, and they kindly offered the hotel as our home base as we finished up our shopping and errands.
I now consider the &Beyond Ngala Safari Lodge home. The staff, safari guides and trackers all wound their way into our hearts. The attention to details--our wash, favorite kind of wine, reminders to dress warmly, special tours to the kitchens of the lodge and the local community--were all handled with professionalism, kindness, and genuine authenticity.
Thank you for a beautifully planned trip, Marianne. Your choices of the Mt. Nelson Hotel and the Ngala Safari Lodge were brilliant.
CN
The great arrangement from Arkman gave us a memorable experience for the Safari and travel in Kenya.
Wonderful experience trucking across some extraordinary country roads, arriving at destinations that raised your heart rate and delivering some surprises, every day different, every place offering new experiences beginning with Local Towns. Good job !
CN
We traveled to Maasai Mara Kenya. It was a very memorable trip.Excellent services from Arkman Safari
Thank you to make my dream come true:I have been dreaming of going to Africa for over ten years and this year that dream finally came true. Our travel company Arkman was wonderful - particularly our agent who helped us every step of the way.
CN
Every detail of our trip was well thought out and executed. Arkman Safaris planned a four long trip
From arrival to departure these guys were great. Attention to detail was awesome. Nelson was our guide, he is very knowledgeable, an amazing driver and overall excellent man.
6 day trip
We had a wonderful 6 day safari with Dusty Roads for our honeymoon. Emmanuel was an excellent guide and knew the names of everything in English, Swahili and Latin! Saw all of the big five and would recommend. These guys can sort out a trip to suit your needs with some lodges better than others depending on your budget. Would particularly recommend Rhino lodge and Eileens Trees.
US
50-65 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Great experience!
We were very pleased with our safari experience with Wildebeest Safaris. We started with their suggested itinerary and then tailored it a bit. They were very flexible in making the changes we requested. Everything went smoothly and all of the accommodations chosen by the company were very nice. All of our guides -Geoffrey, Ayubu and Tony -- were friendly, knowledgeable and great at spotting wildlife. We will definitely recommend the company to our family and friends.
US
20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
About my safari
We were very happy with all the places we went to and felt that Safarihub had found places that really suited us. Everything worked like clockwork until the last flight home. We would (and did) recommend your company to other people and if we do another trip to Tanzania would certainly consult you.
CH
35-50 years of age | Experience level: over 5 safaris
The Pearl of Africa "Uganda"
The trip was absolutely great. The people are friendly and the organizer organized everything great. I would make the trip just like that again. The food was delicius. I will definitely visit uganda again. Thank you for everything
DE
20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Wonderful safari - incredible vacation
The safari with our guide Emanuel was incredible. He did everything to bring us to the most beautiful places of Serengeti, Ngorongoro and Tarangire. We have not only seen the Big 5, but so many other beautiful animals. He even organized a bike tour for us at Lake Manyara. He definiteley knows were to go and provided us an inside into his country and culture. The selected camps and the teams there were also wonderful. Friendly people, good food and a great experience sleeping in a National Park with wild animals around. Overall the trip was an incredible experience which I will never forget and if I ever have the chance to go back I would definitely go with Emanuel and Kichaka Adventure!