35-50 years of age | Experience level: first safari
3 day Gorilla Trekking Tour
Due to some last minute flight changes we arrived at the airport much earlier than arranged. Our tour guide, Tolbert still managed to pick us up 15 minutes earlier than arranged with them and still apologized for being late, which he of course, wasnt! He is a experienced and knowledgeble driver in what proved to be overwhelming peak traffic conditions to us. He without fail pointed out important land marks and wild life to us. He was very informed on all the cultures and shared fascinating facts with us about the resourceful Uganda people we encountered.
The lodging that was arranged for us was of the highest quality in the most beautiful surroundings. We mentioned one small problem we had to Tolbert and he immediately got onto the resort to sort it out for us.
The gorilla trekking was of course the highlight of our short tour, and we left Bwindi park in a state of utter awe of the guides, the porters and of course the beautiful creatures that blessed us with their presence. It definitely was a once in a life time experience I will never forget, and all of this was made possible by the efficient and friendly services of the staff of Encounter Africa, thank you so much!
US
It's like being inside a nature documentary!
I could not believe the density and diversity of wildlife we saw in a single day's drive. My previous frame of reference remained confined to National Geographic, ZooBooks, and other popular media. I had always believed these professionals to have camped out for days and weeks on end, just to glimpse a few species here and there, and perhaps some do, just to capture the "perfect shot." However, as mere tourists, we were only too delighted to find ourselves immediately confronted with giraffe, families of elephants, baboons, myriad of antelope species, rhinos, and even hippos, something we did not expect to see in the dry season. Occasionally our spotter pointed out reclining leopards, cheetahs feasting on fresh kill, and lions tucked away in the shade, avoiding the heat. The acute vision of our eagle-eyed man could not be lauded more.
It may be the goal of some visitors to spot all Big Five, which our group succeeded in accomplishing, but it surely would not have been any less rich an experience if we had not. It is not every day we see an eland stand majestically around a bend in the road. It is not every day we see hyenas lurking in the shade. It is not every day that we see any fan of fauna traverse the bush-lined roads. We nearly missed a giraffe standing practically next to our truck because eight of us sat snapping shots of another creature on our right side. Every thirty seconds brought with it a new herd or species to admire or photograph. Absolutely one of the most surreal days of my life.
In the evening we stayed at Nsele Lodge, full of individual bungalows, each equipped with a gigantic shower, sink, and oscillating fan or two. Optional access to a centrally-located chlorine pool or cushioned camp fire paired superbly with our homemade, al fresco dinner, all set against a backdrop of palm trees and starry skies. We slept exceedingly well. Bonus: two to three chubby small dogs could be found trotting around!
BE
65+ years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
Private visit to Selous and Mikumi from Dar Es Salam in 6 days
We booked via Internet a 6 day private tour from Dar Es Salam to visit the parks of Selous and Mikumi in southern Tanzania and had a wonderful week. Our driver Samuel was extremely pleasant, a great driver, a competent guide to animals and good at mechanics. He fixed in one hour a major break down of our jeep (transmission failure) and drove us back in time in Dar. Every detail was taken care of and we really had a great time. Accomodation was simple but nicely located and with friendly management. It was a great value for the price. Two points that you should know if you want to make the same trip:
1) accommodation was near but not in the parks so that we never went for early morning drives in the parks before breakfast. We still saw a lot of animals (20 sp of mammals and 110 species of birds in 3.5 days) but it might be more rewarding to be in the park. Usually this means a much higher cost than what we paid (830 euros per person for 6 days in private car for 2) but in Mikumi this would be possible at low cost. Accommodation in the park is run by the park administration. It is clearly less sophisticated than what we had outside but this might be worth it. To be discussed with the organizers, depending on your personal taste (comfort vs. Proximity with animals at night).
2) you should know that although the parks of Selous and Mikumi are adjacent, they are separated by a large mountain range which means that you need an 8-10 hour drive on bad dirt roads to go from one to the other. Take that into account when planning.
Note however that these are NOT complaints, just information. We had a really wonderful time and warmly recommend Killiholidays for your Safari. A really great value for the money!
NL
35-50 years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
Wildlife and parks are breathtaking but i’ll never get used to the city’s and residents
Had a great 1 day safari to Tsavo East. Seen beautiful animals and our guide really did his best to find many, unfortunately it was too hot for the lions when we arrived and they did not show themselves. The return trip to Diani Beach was even more adventurous if possible, but our driver couldn't help it. I now know that I can change a tyre during the crossing of the Mombassa ferry! Thank you Mike for the good care and safe ride. Suzanne and Robin
Top notch quality!
We had a three safari to Serengeti and Ngorongoro and it was excellent. They made sure we saw all the animals we could and prepared great food. Their prices were very appealing to the budget travellers that we were but they still gave us top quality service. Can't recommend enough!
BR
35-50 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Amazing country. In addition to safaris and wildlife, it has beautiful beaches
In addition to safaris and wildlife, it has beautiful beaches
LK
20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Kenya is a breathtaking blend of stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and vibrant cultures.
Visiting Kenya was an unforgettable experience. The country's breathtaking landscapes, from the savannas of the Maasai Mara to the peaks of Kilimanjaro, are simply stunning.
US
under20 years of age | Experience level: first safari
breathtaking
I went during the summer and the weather was perfect. The mornings were a bit cold but it warmed up throughout the day and was comfortable. The wildlife was incredible, and as a photographer I can honestly say the camera couldn't capture the full beauty of some of these animals. There is nothing more breathtaking and astonishing than being able to see a baby elephant attach itself to its mother with its trunk less than 10 feet away from you and being able to make eye contact with a family of lions. Also, the scenery was incredible. The water and lakes were beautiful as well as the plant life and trees. Overall, it was an amazing experience and I am so grateful I had the opportunity to experience it at such a young age.
US
35-50 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Excellent Safari
This safari absolutely exceeded our expectations. Mark and Eric were both exceptionally knowledgeable regarding the local flora and fauna. Their knowledge, and exceptional eyesight, helped us to locate both a tree bound leopard and lion. The accommodations and service were also excellent. I highly recommend this tour and will personally be returning.
JM
35-50 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Life Changing
This is a once in a lifetime must do. To see nature in it's original state. It open your eyes to how beautiful and magical this earth is. It's a getaway from people and concrete buildings.. replace with fresh air and eye watering scenery.
