FR
20-35 years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
So disappointed for this special trip, very bad organisation of 7 wonders
Hello, we did a 1 day safari to the ngorongoro crater. Everything went wrong (excepting that the car was ok)...we were supposted to be 4 and leave at 6am but the night before, we learnt we were 6, ok why not. And then a few ours later, before going to bed, we learnt we would have breakfast at 8:30 because we had to wait for another 2. I was upset because everyone knows you have to leave early so you see the animals active while it is not too hot. And by the way, all the other groups left at 6...Impossible to discuss...we would leave the Park at 5pm to 'earn those ours back'. The next day, we were still waiting for breakfast at 8:30 so the whole group was complaining! In the end we left at 9:30, arrived at the gate at 10. We were into the crater at 10:30 and went out at 15:30 because the driver did not want to arrive too late in Arusha. I was really trying to stay calm, we spent so much money on this day we dreamt about for so long...about that, in discussion with the others, we learnt that some of us paid 150$ each, others 350$ (we were in between)...they also forgot the water so we had no water and I got very sick that night (was it the food?). And to finish with, the driver only stopped when we asked him to... Please read these reviews before going with them, I wish I had done it...
NL
35-50 years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
Kenya Walking Survivor Safaris organized our trip perfectly!
From the beginning OT from Kenya Walking Survivor Safaris was very friendly, flexible and fast. He helped us with our itinerary and choosing the perfect accommodations. And he helped us staying within the budget we had. With even at one point offering us more than we paid for. I was really happy with him as he communicated and helped us greatly. This felt very reassuring.
But also when our trip started it was perfect. Everything went completely as planned and as OT had promised. We were picked up by a driver who brought us to the Hotel. OT himself came to meet us there and confirm everything another time but then face to face. It was great to meet him in person. Friendly , enthusiastic but very on top of everything. We emailed, of course, some time and then it is nice to see him in person.
But also the driver/guide was great. He was very knowledgeable and explained everything we had questions about. What we really appreciated was that sometimes he did not know something and then he also said it instead of telling us something which he was not sure of. And also he had respect for wildlife. Not coming too close and all. Or turning the motor off and the radio when we were stopping to look at the wildlife and make beautiful pictures. So we could really experience and enjoy the silence and the sounds of the animals.
We had a great trip! And I recommend Kenya Walking Survivor Safaris to everybody!
KR
20-35 years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
The Amazing Mara Tour
Normally when going for these tours I go for these well known tour companies but this time I chose Khanga Safaris. I liked the way they responded to our inquiries during the tour. Our guide for that day, Benson, was really amazing and through his experience with the wild we were able to see a lot animals. We had our own Jeep (something I highly recommend for anyone going for this safari tour) which was really amazing.The lodge we stayed in was also a lot better than we thought and a great value for our money too. Our three day tour which included two days going to the park then a third full day just enjoying some amazing view and some delicious lunch on the mara river picnic site was really amazing thanks to Benson, the tour guide.
Next time you are going on a safari, I highly recommend Khanga Safaris because they are a service-minded tour company. You wont regret it.
DE
35-50 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Exceptional Service Delivery
In August 2015, I and my wife search n the internet for the best tour operator in Uganda and we came across MAK Global Consults Tours &Travel located in the heart of Kampala City, we booked 4 days safari, to us it was such a lively and well spent tour as the staff, tour guide all provided excellent services. I strongly recommend any one to try their services you will not regret. Thanks to the team which mad our safari beautiful and this will last in our minds - Kasozi was lively and he kept us laughing. Thank you MAK Global Consults Tours & Travel
DE
35-50 years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
Excellent
Great service! Everything went absolutely smooth right from the beginning. The communication beforehand was customer oriented and therefore very helpful. The trip itself was remarkable and an once in a lifetime experience.
US
35-50 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Mixed Experience, Look for Another Option
** UPDATE JUNE 2016
Since my review cannot be deleted, I would like to add the following update. I have been refunded the amount I was owed.
Here are some reasons for considering this company:
1. Affordable - The cost of the safari was far lower than any other company.
2. Flexibility - Joseph was flexible in terms of changing the itinerary. I was scheduled to go to visit the Hadzabe community, but decided I would prefer to go to Lake Manyara and Arusha National Park instead. Joseph was kind enough to accommodate my request.
3. Great Guide - Henry was a great guide and driver.
4. Tented Lodges at an Affordable Price - Since it was rainy season, I did not want to camp. I stayed in tented lodges, and Joseph made it possible for me to do so. All other companies were so overpriced! I especially appreciated staying at Rhino Lodge near Ngorongoro Crater--really nice rooms and food.
5. Airport Pickup and Drop off - Joseph sent drivers to pick me up at the airport and drop me off.
6. Payment Options - All the companies wanted me to pay ahead of time to reserve a spot. Joseph allowed me to pay on arrival, and half in cash and half by credit card.
7. Prompt Response - Joseph was available by email and by Whatsapp. He emailed introductions to former clients in order for me to check the references for the company.
For the price and overall service, I would recommend African Traditional Safaris.
** ORIGINAL REVIEW
I contacted African Traditional Safaris through this website. I was contacted by Joseph who sent me some options for a 7 day safari. He said that I can pay half in cash and half by credit card.
I was picked up at Kilimanjaro airport and taken to an office in Arusha. There was no sign at the office, only a computer on the desk. I knew the company is not registered with the Tourist Board. I was not sure if this was a scam.
I was taken to a local hotel and picked up by a jeep the next morning. There was one other tourist in the jeep. I was told that the amount I owed by credit card would need to be paid for park entrance fees. We went to Tarangire and I paid for the entrance for the jeep, the other tourist and me on my credit card.
That evening we were joined by three other women who were camping along with the other tourist. They were charged a much lower amount because they were camping and were going for fewer days. I was asked to pay their entrance when we got to Serengeti, little over $400. I was essentially subsudizing their trip.
Later when I went to Arusha National Park I was asked to pay the tourist company directly and I would be reimbursed. Joseph kept making excuses and kept saying he would send me the amount by Paypal. That still has not happened a few weeks later!
Overall, I would not recommend this company.
35-50 years of age | Experience level: over 5 safaris
I have liked your services if you continue like that the sky will be the limit.
Every thing is great, ive found you guys to be consistent, i would advise some one if s/he intends to do any work let it be with Mak C TT
20-35 years of age | Experience level: over 5 safaris
They are professional in all they do. They are Punctual, knowledgeable and customer friendly.
With MAK Global you will never be disappointed, be assured of positive results and in case of any changes, they always communicate in time. They have mastered tourist sites in the country and have possible alternatives to suggestions of their clients. They have comfortable means of transport and reputable partners they work with who help them to achieve their targeted goal well.
50-65 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Look no further for your safari.
On a friends recommendation my wife and myself chose Shadows for our three day safari to Tarangire, the Ngorongoro Crater and Lake Manyara. Very helpful advice from Victor and Natasha. Our guide for the trip Mussa was a wealth of knowledge, and having twelve years experience he knew the parks and animals behaviours very well. On our trip, at the end of the wet season when the grasses and vegetation are lush, we did not see leopards, but thanks to Mussa we saw every animal and bird we hoped to see including two black rhino! When our camera charger was damaged during the journey to Dar Mussa made sure it was not a problem, he looked after us wonderfully.
We were collected from Arusha bus station, Victor and Mussa helped us buy our tickets for the return trip to Dar. Our over night stay at a hotel McElly's was comfortable and the staff were extremely friendly and helpful.
The Country Lodge at Karatu were we stayed after each day, lived up to its name. Lovely gardens, great showers with hot water and good food. Phoebe and the rest of the staff were also extremely friendly and very attentive.
As to the safaris themselves it's difficult to choose a favourite place. Each one was wonderful in its own way and more than lived up to our expectations. You will not be disappointed! Regarding cost it was probably mid price range, we felt the quality of accommodation and care we received was excellent.
QA
20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Excellent
It was an amazing adventure and i enjoyed the services,looking forward to explore with them coming holiday once again.