IN
50-65 years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
Lucy our wonderful friendly tour operator took lot of care personally
Lucy took up our trip at the last moment when we had a problem with another operator who fled and we are very happy that we got such a loving lady who personally came with us and saw to all the arrangements.
The roads to Masaimara and Amboselli were really disappointing and hope that government does something about it so that more tourists are welcome.
We did not get accommodation as we would have liked to mainly because of our old operator.
All our drivers were very well behaved and would specially mention James who was with us for 7 days. He has a very good knowledge of animals and birds and made it very entertaining. We managed to see the big five and many animals and birds and captured them with our camera.
I would reccomend Splendor Holidays for all tourists as their personal touch makes them special.
DE
20-35 years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
Fantastic Game drive in Moremi
For a safari through the Moremi Game Reserve we can highly recommend Shipungo Safari & Tours with its guide and driver Thata. It was wonderful and nature sensitive, we learned a lot about the local animals and plants. We had a very nice experience and saw a lot without disturbing the wild animals too much. We can only recommend this company.
US
50-65 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Excellent tour!
Myself, my wife, and our driver/guide, Victor just came back from the "Best of Kenya Classic Safari". Everything went according to the itinerary that Seven by Far made out for us when we booked last October. Victor was an excellent guide and driver. The six to eight hours of driving between the lodges went fast because we could relax and watch the scenery and people through the window without worry. On game drives because of Victor's good eyesight and help from his fellow guides on the CB radio we saw just about every animal we could have hoped to see (lions, leopards, cheetahs, rhinoceroses, hippos, zebras, giraffes, elephants, antelopes of every size etc, etc). Because we booked early, they also included a hot air balloon ride, so we could see the herds of migrating wildebeests from above. The hotel and all the lodges they picked for us were very comfortable, and clean. The buffet meals had a huge variety so we never had to eat anything we didn't like and could have just enough so we had room for dessert after. I think the best part was that we didn't have to share Victor or the van with anyone else. When asked, Sylvester the owner said that they never put strangers together. It's always spouses, families, or friends so you know you'll be travelling with compatible people. I know people don't always trust reviews they see on sites like this, so check out my review on Tripadvisor (402jmcc) so you can see my previous reviews and know I'm a real customer.
AE
50-65 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Outstanding Safari.
After thinking over a year and making a lot of correspondence with Spirit of Kenya we chose to take a plunge. This 6 days safari in the heart of Kenya was made in the first fortnight of August 2019 included Lake Naivasha Lake Bogoria Lake Nakuru and finally Masai Mara. The response from customer service (Mr.Tiago), Logistics, Quality of cottage, vegetarian food and most important Guide (Mr. Eric) who was with us through the entire tour were par excellence. First Eric, from being a guide he evolved to become a friend. His knowledge of the terrain is immense. If at all we could see all the possible animals you could, the credit goes to him. Gentleman to the core he has shown humbleness, commitment, and service attitude that could envy any corporate employee. Full marks to him. Next, our expectations were surpassed on the choice of stay. We were brought so close to Africa's nature and unpolluted environment. Best experience of seeing Big 5 so close as well as other great creatures such as Zebra Giraffe Hippo countless flamingoes and a world of fauna unparalleled anywhere. Day 1-Hells gate trekking down volcanic remains was literally breathtaking. It called for pulling reserves of stamina but to see such natural beauty you need to exert a bit. Lake Naivasha Camp Carnellys -loved that stay close to the beautiful lake, the food was delicious. Drive on lake truly marvelous. Africa's lakes are too huge and glorious. We marveled at Hippos playing with family. Day 2- Bogoria Flamingoes -they say a Million of them- not possible to prove them wrong. You see them adorning the vast stretch of lake shorelines. Breathtaking and very beautiful. Hot springs breed them and indeed the springs were too hot to touch. Due to rising water levels, they are seen in the form of subsurface bubbles instead of raising stream (the sign of global warming). Stay at Camp Roberts was unique and calm and close to breathtaking lake Baringo where we had an evening ride by boat. Birds and sky made the ride more than colorful. Day 3 at Lake Nakuru, the safari was too good especially the Rhinos, Zebra, Warthog, Giraffe and countless Impala and Baboon monkeys. The stay at Punda Milias was class. Food was service were remarkable. Day 4 To Masai Mara- from Nakuru a 5-hour drive over the picturesque bumpy mountain route with fields of wheat maize and muti colored greens - children lining up on the roads waving hands-sharing their joy of seeing guests to their country. Kenya - nature, and humanity thrive in their smiles. Camp Oldaparai (2 nights stay) - a lovely one nests below a lovely hill -the young smiling team of hosts welcomes you to a couple of days of memorable stay of life. Conservation at best. A brief trailer of what we could expect next day was shown during a brief 2-hour drive inside the park in the evening. We almost were to sight the king on the hunt for its prey in its natural preserve. For some reason, it retreated. Day 5-Game drive at Masai Mara - looking at Big 5 - (Lions Elephants Rhinos Buffalo and Leopard)filled our entire day. We could see countless Wild beasts grazing the grasslands close to banks. We aspired to see the crossing of the river by hordes of these beasts but this is something possible if luck favors you. For us, it didn't. Crocodiles waiting for prey and Hippos noticed on the river. The vast terrain (any untrained driver would be lost in wilderness). The close coordination through Walkie Talkie symbolizes sharing and teamwork at best. Each and every guide helps one another to bring a great safari experience to their customers. We also could look from distance the side of Tanzania (Serengeti) from our side. Never we imagine going so close to big cats like that. They pass a brief look at you as if a sign of welcome and move on to their routines. With countless cars around they have got used to us seeing them it appears. Day 6 visit to Masai village- their humbleness and zest for a life closely in sync with nature brings you a new perspective to life. Return to Nairobi and en route, we stepped into Giraffe camp that breeds Rothschild type Giraffes (never miss). Our 6 days came to an end before we could even realize it. Our camera and cell phones had to work overtime to catch the glimpse of mother nature and its creations. Big thanks to Tiago who made it possible with his superb coordination till the tour started for us and Guide Eric for making it most memorable tour for us. All rolled into one-its Spirit of Kenya's safari tours kudos for the excellent job.
50-65 years of age | Experience level: first safari
A safari beyond a safari - the most special experience which far exceeded our expectations
I researched many safari companies but none had the personal touch and knowledge that Rose and the LSC have.
I spent quite some time with Rose chatting through our brief, our expectations and our dreams - to say that Rose delivered is an understatement. Nothing was too much trouble. Her advice, knowledge and understanding of what we were looking for was exceptional. In fact it was faultless.
We have never done a trip like this before and as we were going with our 2 children, aged 23 and 25, we really wanted this to be a special, memory creating experience, one which we could enjoy as a family with very little wifi interruption!
We were relatively open minded as to where we went, we just wanted a great safari experience. Rose advised us to go to Zambia, which we hadn't even considered. It was truly spectacular and the lodges she chose were exactly what we were looking for. We stayed in 3 different lodges: Thorntree River Lodge on the Zambezi near Livingstone, Kaingo Lodge in the South Luangwa National Park and finally Sausage Tree Camp in the Lower Zambezi National Park. Wow, wow and wow again - all different, all exactly what we wanted at that time of the trip. The knowledge and passion of the guides was wonderful, the staff at each camp just wanted us to have the best experience. We were looked after extremely well. Rose also booked private charters for us which landed on dirt runways with thatched huts for terminal buildings - all this just added to the whole experience. Everything also ran seamlessly without any hitches, which was pretty impressive.
As for the important part, the wildlife, Zambia definitely did not disappoint. We saw leopards, lions, wild dogs, bush pigs, buffalo, hyenas etc etc etc - we saw lions stalking prey, we saw a leopard up a tree guarding it's impala kill, we saw elephants with their calves, giraffe, zebra, hippos galore. We sat in hides and watched vultures feed off a dead hippo whilst hyenas skulked around the edge of the lagoon. We enjoyed a couple of walking safaris which made us observe and appreciate the smaller creatures and insects and their importance in this vast landscape. Our minds literally boggled as each day brought new experiences and situations. To do this as a family was truly wonderful.
I cannot recommend Rose and LSC enough - this was the safari I have long dreamt of and I can safely say that it exceeded our wildest dreams. Thank you Rose - you have some new fans!
CN
35-50 years of age | Experience level: first safari
very bad
I have written my review for the company。They are cheaters。I lost 8307 dollars，but I can't finish my trip。
US
65+ years of age | Experience level: over 5 safaris
Perfect safari arranged by Ker & Downey Africa
We have just returned from a spectacular three week safari in Tanzania and Kenya arranged by Emma Perrin at Ker & Downey Africa. I have been to East Africa a dozen times, and this sarari was the best ever. Emma crafted the perfect trip tailored to our specific desires. I am a nature photographer, and Emma maximized our wildlife viewing and made sure that my camera equipment was accomodated on all our light aircraft transfers. Her attention to detail was simply amazing, and all arrangements were executed perfectly during the entire three week safari. She answered all questions we had and kept in constant communication with us, from the time we first began arrangements until after we returned home. The accomodations and tented camps Emma recommended were steller. I lost a small sunglasses case somewhere along the way, and Emma miraculously had it delivered to me by our transfer driver at the end of the safari. The safari was so wonderful that we are booking the same itinerary for next year with 12 friends. After this experience, I am a Ker & Downey customer for all future travel to Africa and I highly recommend them to all my friends. Friends of mine have already booked a trip to South Africa in November with Emma and have thanked me for recommending Ker & Downey because they are so happy with the trip Emma has arranged for them and for her outstanding service. If you are planning Africa travel, you can't be in better hands than arranging your trip through Ker & Downey Africa.
AR
35-50 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Perfect experiencie both kili and safari!
Barafu guides and crew were the best. They helped us a lot while having some altitude problems, and managed to get us both on the summit with a big smile!
Both guides Gilbert and Elekim were amazing, helpful and kind.
The crew was the best also, helping us taking all our stuff to every camp without doubting.
The cheff’s meals were very delicious, even though we are Veggies!
Then the safari was awesome! Our guide Ninah was the best. Very funny guy with a lot of experiencie in safaris and animals. It was a pleasure to stay and share 3 days with him! Very qualifyed in his job and very honest in his behaviour.
I truly recommend Barafu tours!
50-65 years of age | Experience level: first safari
We got the money shots
The briefing was informative and gave us a good idea of what to expect and any questions we asked were answered to our satisfaction. To be honest first impressions of the safari vehicle were that it was dated but we later realized that looks can be deceiving and the vehicle was perfectly designed to get us close to the action and provided a perfect viewing platform once the roof was raised. Although they looked dated the vehicle was mechanically great and obviously designed for the harsh conditions of the tracks.
Our guide (Arroni) was the biggest surprise. He was truly amazing and we soon found ourselves in the prime positions to get the best possible view/photo of the wildlife to the obvious envy of others around us. He was totally devoted to making our experience as safe and enjoyable as possible and we soon built a very good relationship with him. At the end of the day, he knew what was important to us and delivered, we got the money shots we came for including a prime view of the migration crossing of the Mara River by the wilderbeast.
Accommodation at the camps was basic but sufficient. The food tends to be a bit repetitive, but healthy and fills your stomach.
Be prepared for busy roads and African driving which can be a bit scary at times, but we soon got used to that and our guide delivered us safely to our destinations.
If I could offer a suggestion it would be to the camps that hit water is important to most tourists and was at times not available.
All in all, be prepared to live basically but get the rewards of an adventure of a life time. The guide is most important to an enjoyable holiday, we thoroughly enjoyed ours thanks to Arroni.
US
20-35 years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
4 days/ 3 nights safari
My mom and me went in a 4 days/ 3 nights safari to celebrate her 60th birthday. We went to lake Nakuru and stayed a night there, and then two nights in Maasai Mara.
The agenda for our trip was exactly what we wanted and our guide was outstanding. However, we had paid for a “comfort” room in Maasai Mara ($420 per person each night) and when we got to our hotel (Azure Mara Haven) they told us Spirit of Kenya had only reserved a budget tent for us. I talked with employees of Spirit of Kenya but they only solved the problem until the next day when we had already gone over a hard and cold night in the tent. Second day fortunately we were upgraded to a room like the one we had paid for. Despite asking them for a refund or a compensation for their mistake on the first night, I did not get a positive reply and was just ignored by their employees.
Hope this doesn’t happen to other people traveling with Spirit of Kenya and that you stress out that they should make the hotel reservations for what you are asking and the value you are paying.