US
20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
King Charles
Wonderful trip and King Charles was fantastic. Great guide that went above and beyond to help with our needs.
I do not give 5 stars though due to water not being paid for on a very hot trip, after already paying a hefty amount for the trip. It makes it seem like LuLu doesn’t actually care that much for it’s customers.
20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
I felt safe and well-cared for throughout the entire trip The tour operator truly went the extra mil
I recently had the privilege of embarking on an African safari organized by Uncensored Safaris, and it was truly an unforgettable adventure. Every aspect of the trip was meticulously planned, leaving nothing to chance. From the very first interaction, their responsiveness and commitment to customer service stood out. Every question I asked was met with prompt, courteous, and professional replies, reflecting their dedication to understanding and meeting client needs.
The expertise and passion of our driver-guide were the true cornerstones of this remarkable experience. His deep knowledge of local wildlife and plants, combined with an incredible talent for spotting animals, allowed us to safely and respectfully observe the Big Five and many other fascinating species. His enthusiasm for nature was infectious, and his detailed explanations enriched every moment, making the safari both captivating and educational.
Another standout feature of this journey was the impeccable selection of accommodations. Each lodge was harmoniously blended with the natural surroundings and provided the perfect retreat after a day of exploration. The quality of the locations, warm hospitality, and awe-inspiring views of the African wilderness made every stay a highlight in itself.
NL
20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Exciting 4day safari with godson
Had an amazing 4 day safari with godson. Saw all the animals we hoped multiple times . Accommodations were luxurous and the food was very good.
Godson is a guide with a lot of passion, great driving and his eyes work better than the binocular :)
IT
20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
A safari to remember
Before settling for It Started in Africa I did a lot of research. The company was suggested by a friend, but I wanted to be careful in my planning and make the best quality-price ratio for such an important trip.
The turning point for me was the caring and helpful attitude of Bernard, the owner of the company, through the stages of the planning. We exchanged almost 50 emails in 5 months and I always received a quick and kind reply.
We chose a Five Days Safari with one day in Tarangire, one day in Ngorongoro Crater and 3 days in Serengeti. Since the Serengeti is immense, we thought of moving to Serengeti North for one day in the hope of seeing the animals crossing the river. Unfortunately, we were not warned that the journey from the Central Serengeti to the North would last between six and eight hours, spent entirely on the main road without taking advantage of the game drives.
The day after we decided to return to Central Serengeti earlier and after we explained to Aaron and Elia (our driver and guide) that we weren't pleased with how the last day went they did everything they could to make our safari the best experience possible. Elia and Aaron were super helpful and accommodated all our wishes: we followed only game drive routes to go back and saw beautiful settings and a lot of animals!
At the end of the safari, we saw 4/5 of the Big Five!
A special mention goes to our trip to Mataruni Village. On our first day in Tanzania, we arrived at 1 pm at Kilimanjaro Airport. They came to pick us up and organized a trip to the village, famous for its waterfalls and coffee plantations. Our guide was Abdul, the main organizer of the trekking on Kilimanjaro: he gave us a warm welcome to Tanzania and after the trip drove us to Arusha to start the safari.
To conclude, my advice is to read a lot about the places you want to see, and the best routes for the period you are planning to go and not be shy about asking a lot of questions.
I recommend this company. They are small but nice, the lodges and camps were very good and the price was competitive compared to others with the same offers.
Thanks It Started in Africa: it was truly an amazing experience!
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!!!!