DE
35-50 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Review about South Africa by maudcorinna
It's the diversity that you find in this big country that makes it so interesting !
DE
35-50 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Experience of a lifetime !
We had no idea what we would expect ! Shamwaris concept is brilliant, because it has something for every taste: Down to earth and very authentic up to modern and luxurious. What we liked most was the small guesthouses where Host and hostess were like family members and everyone sat together for joint meals, listening to the bush adventures our host contributed. The meals where very good and authentic, cooked by local staff under the guidance of our hostess - very very tasty. The rooms where very spacious with excellent equipment and bathrooms of international high standard.
The scenery is breathtaking and our guide - which was our host - was an absolute expert and showed us exceptional things, explained in detail, answered all questions and fulfilled all wishes of what animals to be watched. We spent three days and nights and would have loved to stay on, but were exhausted from all the impressions we gathered. Three days is a perfect duration for a stay, anything else is too short. We have made very many international trips of all kinds - but this was and still is the best ever - and one we will certainly repeat !
DE
35-50 years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
Review about South Africa by kaeppeler
to enjoy the complete Wildlife you need to visit Nambia and Botswana also. Deceleration first class!
DE
35-50 years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
breathtaking location - unforgettable experience
We had our honeymoon in Ulusaba Rock Lodge. It was so phantastic. The rangers, the trackers and the general staff were extremly friendly and helpful 24h a day... It is the right place to relax and enjoy the game.
We will come back!
50-65 years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
Review about South Africa by mimtea
Everything was magnificent, and we didn't travel high-end. People were very friendly. The national parks were fantastic places.
50-65 years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
Spectacularly wild
Getting to Mountain Zebra National Park by car gives you the impression of so many types of ecosystems in this one small area. Rising up to the plateau, being pursued by baboons coming out of rocky outcrops, the sudden sharp blue enormous sky against steely coloured grasses which hides leopards and zebras, all so beautiful!
50-65 years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
Review about Addo Elephant National Park by mimtea
Magnificent and really well run. We drove in our own car each day. Just being in the bush and having an animal surprise us was magical. Wonderful accommodation. Loved the open kitchens!
Peace, Beauty, and Drama in the Bush, Without Crowds
For the serious wildlife observer, who also doesn't mind some creature comforts, Lewa Wildlife Conservancy is ideal. Lewa is one of the best examples of ecotourism benefitting the local economy while preserving habitat and wildlife that would otherwise disappear.
I accompanied my then 84-year-old mother on this trip. We were already long-time Africa hands, and this trip was designed to be easy and relaxed, in recognition of my mother's needs, but nevertheless a full experience of the Africa we loved. The staff couldn't have been more attentive or helpful, and our guide, Peter Kiyaa, was knowledgeable, personable, and responsive to the way we wanted to experience the bush -- not rushing around too much, but extended, quiet observation.
The accomodations were delightful--we were in a well-appointed tented suite, a short walk from the lodge/dining building. The lodge is on a ridge with a spectacular view over the surrounding landscape of rolling hills and valleys to the west, all the way to Mt. Kenya to the south. As it happened, there were few other guests during most of our two-week stay, and we had the undivided attention of staff, which allowed us to get to know each other well, and develop friendships that continued long after the trip was over. The food was excellent, a highlight being breakfast on the veranda (with the birds stealing most of the butter, lol). Being a cook myself, I also enjoyed getting to know the kitchen staff.
The wildlife viewing is excellent, with frequent fine views of elephants, rhinos, giraffe, lions, antelope, warthogs, etc., and even eventually an extraordinary night-game-run view of a courting leopard pair. Birding was also extremely varied and satisfying -- all the classic african bush birds, plus special experiences like the raptor and crowned crane migrations (huge numbers) occurring during our visit (January). The rocky outcroppings and cliffs of Hankin's Gorge provided scenic and very entertaining views of rock hyraxes and the unusual stone partridge, which gave us a remarkable sunset chorus. On a night game run, we had memorable encounters with an owl and a strangely hypnotized thick-knee (stone-curlew).
The landscape is everything one could hope for, beautiful acacias, lush grasslands, interesting geographical features, and a wetland area. Gorgeous rainbows appeared after one brief storm. For photographers, the opportunities are endless. The golden hour is glorious!
Our game runs were undisturbed by others, and the ability to observe the natural behavior of the animals and birds for extended periods was priceless. Although this may have been just a stroke of luck for us, I suspect that Lewa manages its tourist capacity very responsibly and maintains a quality experience for everyone.
Definitely a new favorite destination in Africa, and admirable organization deserving of strong support!
Review about Samburu National Reserve by Curtis Horton
Opportunity to see unique wildlife, such as the Grevy's zebra. Overused, but still a magical place.
US
20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
It was a remarkable adventure & great opportunity to view amazing animals in their natural habitat.
Though the park does not have the most beautiful of scenery (it's mostly dirt), the wildlife is amazing. I arrived at the park early in the morning for an all-day game drive. Immediately after entering the park, I saw various antelopes and bucks, which made me excited for the rest of the day. It wasn't long before we came across a rare and elusive leopard! What an amazing opportunity! Seeing such a beautiful creature in its natural habitat was a truly remarkable experience. As the day continued, we saw various birds, many giraffes, and even a pack of cheetahs as they enjoyed a recent kill. It would have been nice to be able to spend two days at Kgalagadi in order to see more of the park and view even more wildlife. My guide was very knowledgeable. Our overland truck proved advantageous because it gave us a better view, as we were sitting quite high. There was a gift shop at the park entrance and clean bathroom facilities throughout the park. Overall, I have to say that my experience at Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park is something that I will never forget. If you're a wildlife lover, this park is definitely worth your time!