JP
20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
We saw all the animals we wanted to see! Great safari tour!
My husband and I enjoyed our 5 days safari tour. The destinations were Tarangire National Park and Ngorongoro Crater, Ndutu and Lake Manyara National Park.
Serengeti National Park was not included.
Our wonderful guide, Pius, found all the BIG 5 (lion, leopard, rhino, buffalo, and elephant).
Thanks Pius for a safe and exciting trip.
CA
65+ years of age | Experience level: first safari
Hakuna matata!
Hakuna Matata!
We had planned an adventure of a lifetime: visiting Africa for the first time, and going on a photographic safari in Tanzania’s wildlife parks! But, we actually got more than that, thanks to Zara!
Things started going well since we first contacted them, and started planning our trip (without actually knowing what we were getting into). A very well trained customer-relations clerk, Pearl, returned our call and put us in the right direction, establishing the contact with our local (Tanzanian) contact person, Hamis. We followed with all sorts of questions, and all our concerns and queries were addressed and answered.
This followed with our actual arrival at Kilimanjaro Airport, where friendly staff (Tudi) was waiting for each of us, and friendly drivers (Omari and Mombole) not only safely drove us (accommodating our different arrival times) but also served as initial tour guides, pointing out landmarks along the way, answering all sorts of questions, and teaching us our first Swahili words.
The first day in Tanzania, lodged at the Springland Hotel, allowed for a good rest, after the transatlantic flight and numerous connections, and got us nicely refreshed after a hearty breakfast for our induction briefing. And, early next day, off we went! Startled by the sight of Mount Kilimanjaro, proudly rising over the prairie, with its snow-capped top overlooking the valley.
The expert guidance of our driver, Hamza, was present since the first kilometers. The driving was safe and smooth. The jeep was in pristine condition (and we have to praise Hamza for maintaining it as such, even after long days of driving in dirt and muddy roads, as each day it was as if the car had just been picked up from the dealer), and the stops along the way were well planned and well spaced. When we least expected it (and most needed it), there was a coffee/restroom available. When we were sufficiently introduced to the local culture, there was a stop to highlight the history of the place, or an amazing shop to buy souvenirs. When we were totally wiped out by hours and hours of safari, there was an amazing hotel waiting for us. When we started to get hungry, there was a well-prepared lunch or a tasty dinner. When we needed a hearty breakfast, the offer was ample. Oh, and don’t forget the highly-appreciated Tanzanian coffee!
Tarangire, the Serengeti, Ngorongoro crater, lake Manyara, and so many landmarks along the way, were more than we expected. Amazing wild life; extremely well kept environments; professional dedication of the tour guides; exceptionally clean facilites; and so much friendliness! It all contributed to the phrase/attitude that we heard so many times along the way: Hakuna matata! (i.e., everything is fine; enjoy life; take it easy).
At the end of each day, we had superb nights in the different lodgings provided by Zara, ranging from the friendly Highview Coffee Lodge in Karatu to the tent-based (glamping at its best!) Serengeti Safari Lodge, expertly managed by Nambapa (manager) and Eliza (assistant manager), proud members of the Maasai, who also became our WhatsApp friends. And, a special mention to the invaluable Maasai warriors, who spend the night outdoors, taking turns to sleep under the stars, so they may keep watch over the elephants, lions, and other big animals that wander through their domains over the Serengeti plains, coming sometimes too close to our tents; as attested by their calls/grunts!
In summary: Everything Zara says about itself in its website is but a humble representation of their accomplishments; reality surpasses it! We would (and will) go back for another unforgettable experience, as soon as we can!
DE
20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Very reliable, fast responsive. We are really happy we booked with Epic Star Holidays.
We had a great 6 day safari with Epic Star Holidays. We were very happy with the accommodations, the activities and our overall journey. Esther and Susan were really nice, reliable and responsive and everything worked out perfect. Would highly recommend.
CH
50-65 years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
Wonderful sightseeing
A wonderful country to visit and for meeting the very kind People. It is the good time to go in the parks everywhere is secured.
US
50-65 years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
The perfect adventure provider
I had an amazing time with Ngoni and most notably Eddy my guide. I traveled solo for this trip so the person I spent 9 days with was key to the experience. Eddy was a pleasure to be around - very personable and knowledgeable. There is a lot of travel time between locations so having the right travel partner is key!
The accommodations were as described and added comfort plus enjoyable meals at the end of each day. They were equal feel of being one with nature but offering the creature comforts I want while traveling.
All animal encounters were incredible but the gorillas stole the show. It was clear they were just as interested in our visit as we were to see them. I loved the challenge of getting to them to see them in their world.
If you are considering a trip to Uganda then I definitely recommend putting your trust in Ngoni to give you a memorable vacation!
US
50-65 years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
Professional, personalized, once-in-a-lifetime!
Beyond all expectations!!!!!
The tour organizer, Victoria, was accommodating, prompt, detailed, and thoughtful! Our guide, Jacob, seemed to intuitively know how make our time in Uganda simply perfect. He helped blend our cultural experiences in such a safe and friendly country with the wonderment of Ugandan wildlife. Words cannot express how this trip impacted and impressed me with all that I learned and saw! Incredible!!!!! Everything was incredible!!!!
CA
20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
The best host!
Booking our trip with Charles Tours was the best decision we made for our trip. Charles is kind, personable, and overall a great host. He made sure to cross off all the animals we wanted to see on the safari, was very knowledgeable to the point that he could tell us a bird by it's call alone, and booked fantastic stays in the Serengeti and Karatu. Additionally, he was flexible and let us book a day hike on Mt. Kilaminjaro last minute. He made sure to provide delicious, healthy, hot lunches that accommodated my dietary restrictions (vegan) and went out of the way to make sure we had transportation in Zanzibar even though he had no obligation to help us on the next leg of our trip.
What I appreciate most about our Safari with Charles is how attentive he was to our needs. He watches carefully and knows exactly when we were tired and when we were more attentive, and engaged with us accordingly.
Charles made our trip memorable and I would recommend booking with him!
TW
50-65 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Great value, friendly and prompt responses; highly recommend
I had an incredible Kilimanjaro and safari tour organized by Leken Adventure. Alex arranged the entire schedule to fit my needs and budget, offering an affordable yet well-planned itinerary. He promptly responded to my emails, both before and during the trip, ensuring everything went smoothly. All the pick-ups were punctual, which made the journey hassle-free.
For the Kilimanjaro trek, I chose the 5-day Marangu Route, guided by Leonard and William along with their professional team. They ensured the trip was safe and showed great patience with my slow pace. Thanks to their support, I successfully reached Uhuru Peak, a truly unforgettable achievement!
During the Arusha city tour, the guide, Elly, was very friendly and knowledgeable about interesting places to visit, making the experience enjoyable.
For the safari tour, Jonas was our guide, and his passion and professionalism stood out. He did his best to search animals and shared extensive knowledge about them. I am fortunate to observe all of the Big Five, which was an absolute highlight.
The itinerary was meticulously planned, and I was especially impressed by the professionalism of the guides, who went above and beyond to make the experience truly memorable. I deeply appreciate Alex for his dedication and effort in ensuring everything went seamlessly. If you're planning a Kilimanjaro trek or a Tanzanian safari, I highly recommend Leken Adventure!
HK
20-35 years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
The tour to Lake Naivasha and Hell's Gate is fantastic!
We joined a day trip to Lake Naivasha and Hell's Gate with Jane Kale. The trip was fantastic, loved the close encounter with wild animals on Crescent Island and in Hell's Gate. Our guide Jane is very friendly and has great drving skills, she brought us a wonderful experience on our last day in Kenya.
SG
20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Responsive, friendly
My friend and I did our 8 days Mt. Kilimanjaro Hike and a 5 days safari with Life Journey.
Paul was extremely patient and friendly to answer all our queries prior the trips and provided us the necessary info that we required. Upon arriving everything was smoothly arranged and he was quite responsive and accommodating to our needs.
His crews and guides were all very friendly and professional. Would totally recommend Life Journey to anyone who want to hike/do safari!