50-65 years of age | Experience level: first safari
An Unforgettable Safari — in More Ways Than One
We recently returned from what was meant to be a 10-day Kenya and Tanzania Epic Safari organized by John Rejeaeli from Tanzania Vacation Operations. It truly was an experience we’ll never forget — though not always for the reasons one would hope.
Our journey began in Nairobi, heading toward the Masai Mara. The Jambo Mara Safari Lodge was pleasant overall, though instead of the promised “excellent modern rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows,” we received a more basic wooden cabin. Still, the game drive was outstanding, and our Kenyan guide, Kibe, was exceptional — professional, knowledgeable, and determined to make our experience memorable. Thanks to him, we saw 4 of the Big 5 in just one day.
Unfortunately, once we crossed into Tanzania, things began to unravel.
Our Tanzanian guides arrived three hours late at the border, leaving us waiting with no explanation. Their vehicle looked more suited for retirement than a cross-country safari: missing windshield wipers, several mechanical issues, and, according to the VIN, produced in 1989. On the way to our first lodge, we had to stop multiple times — once due to rain (no wipers!) and again to fix an electrical short circuit. Because of the delays, we missed our evening game drive and were taken to a different lodge than the one we were promised.
The pattern continued.
The next morning started with a beautiful game drive — we even witnessed a great migration river crossing — until the car broke down around 9:30 a.m. After a three-hour wait and help from local rangers who brought a mechanic, we limped to the nearest town for repairs and fuel. By the time we returned to the park, it was too late for further activities. That evening, we again found ourselves at a different accommodation than what we had booked — a tented camp instead of a lodge. It was comfortable, and we were the only guests, but still not what was promised.
By Day 5, things briefly looked up. We enjoyed a seamless day in Serengeti, guided by Kelvin and Geoffrey, both incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about the wildlife. However, as night fell and we drove toward our next lodge, the car’s headlights failed. Geoffrey had to buy a flashlight in a nearby Maasai village, and we crept along the dark road at low speed until we finally reached our (this time, correct) lodge.
The following day in Ngorongoro Crater, déjà vu struck — the vehicle broke down again. This time it couldn’t be fixed on-site, and we were evacuated to yet another unplanned hotel.
By morning, we finally received a replacement vehicle and enjoyed a wonderful day in Tarangire National Park before heading to Arusha. Sadly, the hotel there was, once again, not the one promised.
Our final two days were meant to be spent in Amboseli National Park in Kenya, and we hoped our misfortunes were behind us. Kibe met us at the border and, as always, delivered a fantastic experience. We arrived at Sentrim Lodge, as booked, and thought all was well — until the next morning, when hotel staff informed us that our paid reservation covered only one night. Upon contacting John, he asked us to pay for the last night (even though it was already paid) and promised a refund. A week and two reminders later, the refund never came, and we are now initiating a credit card dispute.
In summary, I would give zero stars to Tanzania Vacation Operations for the organization, communication, and repeated false promises — but five stars to our incredible guides:
🌟 Kibe (Kenya), Kelvin, and Geoffrey (Tanzania), who truly saved the experience with their professionalism, knowledge, and kindness.
CN
The guide who received us was a very responsible, conscientious, friendly and professional local guide. He was always able to keenly find the spots wh
The Serengeti is well worth exploring, allowing people to find their soul's home, embrace nature, listen to the pulse of life, the romance of the sunset, the breath of the grass, and the calls of animals.
(automatic translation from Chinese)
35-50 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Impeccably orchestrated experience that combined flawless logistics and authentic local insight.
Our experience with Viatu was nothing short of exceptional—their communication was prompt and thoughtful, service seamlessly professional, and every detail reflected remarkable reliability and value, culminating in a tour so immersive and well-curated that it felt less like a trip and more like a masterclass in hospitality and precision. Simone was our trip consultant and she was absolutely phenomenal.
65+ years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
Marc is very pleasant, helpful and knowledgeable
Very professional, bus in excellent condition, driver/guide professional and very pleasant
65+ years of age | Experience level: first safari
Carson was excellent very knowledgeable
Apartheid Museum experience the resilience and perseverance as South Africans struggle for their freedom. There is a lot to see and read. Learn about Nelson Mandela along with others who fought against CCD apartheid
FI
20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Sereland Africa Safaris is a topnotch operator with super nice staff
We booked a 4 day safari experience by Sereland. Everything run smoothly, great customer service and all in all very nice staff and everything was well taken care of. We had incredible accomodations in escarpment luxury lodge at Lake Manyara and Four Seasons Serengeti. Both were with outstanding views and beautiful rooms. In the 4 day tour we got to see Tarangire, Serengeti and Ngorongoro crater with the best driver guide Juma. Both our tour operator Mike and our guide Juma are the best in the business and I can recommend this company and these people with a hand in my heart that if you chose them you won't regret it!
65+ years of age | Experience level: first safari
Carson made the Apartheid Museum tour unbelievably educational. His passion was great.
The Apartheid Museum tour was moving about a critically historical time in South Africa. Although you can't thoroughly cover the entire museum in a few hours, it was worthwhile!
50-65 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Excellent customer service!
Michelle is incredible - she listened to what we wanted and put together a great itinerary with some amazing accommodation . South Africa is a fabulous country to explore with Cape Town a must and safari’s a defo must! Can’t wait to go back!
NO
50-65 years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
Very profesjonell and nice people
We have a very pleasant tour. Our driver Theodor get oss safely to the airport. The game drivers was very good at tracking animals, we see all big five, and have a very good experience.
20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Kenya safari -The best safaris in maasai mara
Kenya Safari – The best safari in Masai Mara
"This was our first trip to Masai Mara National Reserve and Boost Safaris was always helpful and provided us with all necessary information to ensure a safe and smooth trip. I will recommend to everyone! Thank you!
Our trip was truly wonderful. We were picked form home by our guide Ben and drove very safely to Masai mara. The vehicle was in good condition and the guide was very informative. The Game drives were good we spotted the big five migration and plenty of game.
The Camp – Olkorok Mara Camp met our expectation and we really loved the staff and the food. Masai Village visit added the to the experience. We highly recommend this team.
Thank you, Boost Safaris- will do it again!
