FR
50-65 years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
Everything was perfectly organized from start to finish. The communication was excellent, everything
We highly recommend Joky Tour without hesitation! If you have the chance to go on safari with Alex and Joshua, you will be in very good hands. A huge thank you to both of them for their professionalism and good humour throughout this wonderful adventure! 🦁🐘🦒❤️
KR
20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
An unforgettable 3-day Masai Mara safari with Balu Travel and our amazing guide Kiu!
We recently went on a private 3-day Masai Mara safari with Balu Travel, and I can honestly say it was one of the most memorable experiences of my life. Everything from the booking process to the very last day was wonderful, and I'm so glad we chose this company.
I first found Balu Travel through a Korean travel blog. Before booking, I exchanged many emails with them because I had quite a few questions about the itinerary, accommodation, and other details. They always replied patiently and thoroughly, no matter how many questions I asked. That really helped me trust the company, especially since we were traveling to Kenya for the first time.
Our guide was Kiu, who has 13 years of experience, and he was absolutely fantastic.
We actually had a little change of plans before our safari. We had wanted to visit Hell's Gate the previous day but couldn't make it, which was really disappointing. When we explained this to Balu Travel, they and Kiu kindly helped us rearrange our itinerary so we could visit Hell's Gate on the first day of our Masai Mara trip instead.
Of course, we had to pay an additional fee, but it was completely worth it. Thanks to their flexibility, we got to visit a place we really didn't want to miss. We ended up arriving at our Masai Mara camp quite late that evening, but Kiu drove us there safely and made sure everything went smoothly.
The next day was our full-day game drive in Masai Mara, and I still can't believe how much we managed to see in just one day!
We saw lions, elephants, cheetahs, giraffes, hippos, crocodiles, buffaloes, zebras, hyenas, baboons, hyraxes, gazelles, impalas, elands, and so many other animals.
One of the most incredible moments was seeing wild lion cubs! I still can't believe how lucky we were. Seeing lions in the wild was already something I had dreamed of, but seeing their little cubs in their natural habitat was on another level. It felt like such a rare and precious moment, and it's something I'll never forget.
We also witnessed some unbelievable scenes, including lions hunting a buffalo, lions feeding on a zebra, and even a pair of lions mating. We got to see a magnificent male lion too. At times, it genuinely felt like we were watching a wildlife documentary, except everything was happening right in front of us.
We almost saw a leopard as well, but unfortunately it had just climbed down from a tree before we arrived. We were a little disappointed, but honestly, after seeing a cheetah, lion cubs, and so many other incredible animals, we really couldn't complain!
What made all of this possible was Kiu's experience and dedication. He was constantly looking for wildlife, communicating with other guides, and doing everything he could to help us see as much as possible. He seemed to know so many people around the park, and his ability to find animals was seriously impressive. It really felt like we were all working together as a team to find wildlife.
He was also incredibly knowledgeable. We asked him so many questions throughout the trip, not only about the animals but also about the trees, plants, and Kenya in general. He always answered patiently and explained things in a way that made everything more interesting. He even told us about the trees around us while we were having lunch. We learned so much from him, and his explanations made the safari even more enjoyable.
Another thing that really impressed me was his driving.
The roads in and around Masai Mara can be extremely rough, but Kiu handled the Land Cruiser so confidently and skillfully. Throughout the entire three-day trip, we never got stuck or had a single problem with the wheels, even while driving through some pretty challenging terrain. His 13 years of experience really showed. He knew how to handle the vehicle in all kinds of situations, and we always felt comfortable with him behind the wheel.
But more than anything, I want to emphasize how much we appreciated his attention to our safety.
As visitors who weren't familiar with Kenya, there were many things we simply didn't know. Kiu was always one step ahead, explaining what we should be careful about, giving us advice before we even thought to ask, and making sure we were safe and comfortable throughout the trip.
He was incredibly observant, thoughtful, and quick to respond to any situation. Even when our plans changed or unexpected things came up, he handled everything calmly and professionally. We never felt like we had to worry about anything because we knew we were in good hands.
He also had a great sense of what we wanted. He listened to us, understood our preferences, and adjusted things whenever possible. Rather than simply being our driver or tour guide, he genuinely felt like someone who was traveling with us and doing his best to make sure we had an amazing experience.
And I have to mention one of my favorite memories from the entire safari: our picnic lunch in Masai Mara.
During our full-day game drive, we stopped under a tree and enjoyed our packed lunches surrounded by the beautiful African landscape. The sky was perfectly clear, the sun was warm, and we were sitting in the shade of a tree, enjoying our lunch in the middle of the wilderness.
It was such a simple moment, but I remember feeling genuinely happy just sitting there. There was something so peaceful about eating lunch under that beautiful blue sky, surrounded by nature. Even after seeing all those incredible animals, that little picnic remains one of my favorite memories of the trip. I think I'll remember it for a very long time.
Our private Land Cruiser was also very clean, comfortable, and well maintained, which made the long drives much more pleasant. We were lucky to have wonderful weather during our safari as well. Everything just came together beautifully.
I've traveled to Europe, the United States, Asia and quite a few other places, but this experience was truly special. Masai Mara had always been somewhere I dreamed of visiting, and actually being there, watching wild animals in their natural habitat, was even better than I had imagined.
Looking back, I honestly can't think of anything I would have wanted to change. From the company's communication and flexibility to the vehicle, the wildlife sightings, the beautiful scenery, and especially our wonderful guide, everything exceeded our expectations.
If I ever return to Kenya, I would absolutely book with Balu Travel again, and I would specifically request Kiu as our guide.
I wholeheartedly recommend Balu Travel to anyone planning a safari in Kenya. And if you have the chance to travel with Kiu, I strongly recommend requesting him as your guide.
With his 13 years of experience, incredible knowledge, excellent driving skills, quick judgment, and genuine care for his guests, you'll be in very good hands. He's not only an excellent safari guide but also a truly kind and thoughtful person.
Thank you so much, Kiu and the entire Balu Travel team, for making our trip so special. We genuinely appreciate all the effort and care you put into our experience.
This was one of the best travel experiences we've ever had, and we'll never forget it. We hope to see you again someday!
50-65 years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
A great safari that I highly recommend
Our tour guide, Songe, knows how to find the best places to see the animals. Our contact, Janet, was very helpful on arranging the safari. Accommodation was excellent, with great food. We saw all the animals on our list, including those that are hard to find. We had a wonderful time.
65+ years of age | Experience level: over 5 safaris
A professional operator with the ability to arrange bespoke safari tours
I can unreservedly recommend Beacon Safaris. We selected the company based on previous client reviews and I can endorse all the positive comments that others have made.
Our safari objective was not the usual one. We wanted to visit Amboseli National Park, off course to see the magnificent tuskers and other animals, but to focus more specifically on experiencing the park's bird life. We had prompt responses to our requests for information and the company accommodated our specific requests around our budget and for a guide with birding knowledge. Robert's administrative skills ensured things went smoothly. Beacon did all the donkey work, arranging travel, park fees and accommodation. We just pitched up and enjoyed the ride. Thank you, Robert.
I would like to single out Alex, our guide. He was professional, service-orientated and proved to be a valuable resource. He got the little things right. In particular, he struck a good balance between viewing animals and birds, thus ensuring we made the most of our trip and fulfilled our objectives. Alex knew from experience where certain birds were likely to be found and ensured that we covered the different habitats within the park. We ended up birding as a team and the result was most satisfactory. Alex was ideally suited for a bespoke birding safari like the one we had requested.
Being hosted by Beacon was a pleasurable experience. I have already given friends the company's contact details with our endorsement.
65+ years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
Musa Ncube is a very attentative & accommodating tour operator. He listened to our requests & did!
A fantastic team! Everyone we deal with was extremely professional and willing to listen to us and then make it happen. If you are looking for a truly unique Victoria Falls experience then this is the tour company for you. We chose a 4 day package covering Victoria Falls, Chobe National Park and Hwange National Park.
Absolutely Fantastic! Mixed with local content it was a truly unique African experience. Walking with elephants was a major highlight arranged for us.
20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Incredible experience!
We have just finished a 2 day safari, 1 day in the Serengeti national park & 1 day in the Ngorongoro crater. Our driver & guide Emmanuel did everything he could to make sure we saw all the animals we wanted to see and truly looked after us.
Our accommodation for the night was also extremely special.
I would recommend to anyone considering booking!
65+ years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
Excellent! Worked with me to put the exact packagr together we wanted, nothing was to much trouble
I contacted Chrizanne after my tour operator in the UK went into liquidation 3 weeks before we were suppose to travel. Asking if you could help me to rebook the Camps, Hotels and As Dunas.
This Lady went above and beyond what you would consider helping nothing was to much trouble, even managing to book two camps in better locations for us.
I will be going back to Africa in either 27 or 28 and I will have no hesitation in contacting Chrizanne to organise my whole trip.
Thank you again.
The whole experience is unbelievable Botswana has to be visited as a destination. Moremi Crossing and Mma Dinare Camps were in different setting and offered a excellent trips out both by vehicle and boat.
Both Camps had excellent facilities, food excellent and the staff were welcoming and nothing was to much trouble.
Leaving the safaris behind we had 5 night at As Dunas Lodge in Mozamique. The Onwers and Management made everything run smoothly, staff again could not help you enough.
The setting of the lodge overlooking the bay is stunning, every morning your voew from you accommodation is breath taking.
The cuisine here it out of this world every day a different 5 course tasting menu.
CN
35-50 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Serengeti shall never die!
(I forgot to attach photos last time, so..
We were extremely happy with the entire safari experience. Everything was well organized, from the daily schedule to the game drives, and the whole trip felt smooth, relaxed, and enjoyable. A big part of that was having Abu as our guide.
Abu is a professional, detail-oriented, and wonderfully polished safari guide — basically the kind of person you want to have with you on the safari.
He was always incredibly punctual and managed our daily schedule really well. The safari vehicle was spotless every single day, which made a surprisingly big difference, especially when you’re spending so much time in the car. And yes, the windows were clean enough that taking photos through the glass was absolutely no problem.
What impressed me most was how much he genuinely cares about the animals. He was always respectful of wildlife, and he had a great sense of where an animal might move next and which angle would give us a clearer view. He’s exactly the kind of guide you want to trust — observant, experienced, calm, and always thinking one step ahead.
And if you’re not a very talkative traveler, Abu is still an excellent companion. He has an impressive collection of extremely dry and wonderfully terrible jokes, so he can keep the silence from getting too awkward. 😂
He’s also apparently quite good at sports… see attached photo for evidence. We would absolutely recommend him to anyone planning a safari.
35-50 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Excellent. Simon was very kind, helpful, patient. He went above & beyond2 ensure a great experience
Huko curates a beautiful and seamless travel experience all round. Our travel guide was the best, he made every part of the journey easy, comfortable and enriching. I cannot wait to travel with you again
CN
20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Exceptional service! They saved our trip after a flight disaster. Muli & Benard are the best!
We booked a safari with Africa Celebrity Tours and Travels, and it was the best decision we could have made.
Before the trip, Muli (from management) was incredibly patient, answering all my emails promptly and providing all the necessary documents for our eTA visas. However, the true test of their reliability came when disaster struck: our international flight experienced a mid-air mechanical failure and was completely canceled. We were stranded in another country, delayed by days, and our luggage was delayed too!
This is where Muli truly shined. His communication was instant and reassuring. He calmly helped us restructure our entire itinerary at the very last minute and even assisted with our delayed luggage logistics. His professionalism gave us so much peace of mind during a highly stressful time.
Once we finally arrived in Kenya, the safari itself was flawless. Our driver-guide, Benard, was absolutely phenomenal. He is highly experienced, has eagle eyes for spotting wildlife (we saw everything we wanted and more!), and is a very safe driver. The 4x4 Land Cruiser was comfortable, clean, and perfect for the rough terrain. All the lodges they arranged for us (Serena, Sopa, Sarova) were top-notch.
In terms of value for money, honesty, and service, this company exceeded all expectations. They didn't just sell us a tour; they took care of us like family when we needed it most. If you want a trustworthy, highly capable operator in Kenya, look no further. Thank you, Muli and Benard, for an unforgettable African adventure!
