US
50-65 years of age | Experience level: first safari
It Will Change Your Life
Three friends and I picked Uganda because our top priority was trekking the mountain gorillas, and we were pleasantly surprised when it turned out that everyday of our 15 day safari provided a highlight that was almost as awe-inspiring as the gorillas. We picked Karumuna Safaris because it was owned by a Ugandan, competitively priced, and we knew the money we spent supported local businesses and individuals (versus booking with a company headquartered outside of Uganda.)
We arranged the tour through Richard, the owner, and he was very responsive and patient in answering our many questions. For example, he provided us with a list of accommodations on the budget plan, and when we decided we wanted to upgrade to the mid-range category (which I highly recommend, since it's worth paying a little extra for nicer places), he worked with us to ensure that we approved of the replacement properties. And, after staying at them, it is clear that Richard understood what we were looking for in hotels. They were staffed by the kindest, most service-oriented Ugandans, and the individual rooms were charming. The hotel staff went out their way to meet our every need, and when there was confusion, our guide stepped in to make sure that everything was taken care of.
Now, about the safari itself--there is no way to describe the reaction when you spot your first elephant or giraffe on the savannah. It creates an insatiable need to see every living creature in the national park. We were a demanding group, but our guide aimed to exceed our demands, and did so with good humor.
I recommend going on a private tour since the group will spend many hours together in the car (make sure the vehicle has a roof that opens up to allow 365 degree viewing) and are literally on top of each other as you scramble with your binoculars and telephoto lens to capture a lion and lioness as they emerge from the bush. And, I recommend going with a company, like Karumuna Safaris, that hires local ranger guides at each of the national parks you visit. We saw many other groups that relied upon their tour guide to scan for animals because the tour company didn't bring aboard a local ranger guide that specialized in that particular national park. The local ranger guides made the safaris much more rewarding and informative.
Everything was not perfect, and much of what wasn't perfect can't be fixed by a tour guide or company. Uganda is a country that has yet to adapt to the modern, industrialized era. No tour company can improve the weak and intermittent hotel wi-fi reception, or avoid the slow-going, dirt roads, which are utilized by every mode of transportation, including pedestrians and cyclists carrying their goods to market, the local farmer herding his cattle, and the occasional baboon.
At the end of our incredible 15-day journey, I really felt like our tour was designed to strike a balance between immersion into the local people and their day-to-day living, and spending time in nature, with the animals, birds, wide open plains and unforgettable, star-filled, night skies.
Our guide's motto was "Your wish is my command." And, he did everything within his power to turn our wishes into his commands. I have been told I sometimes have unrealistic expectations. Nonetheless, Karumuna Safaris exceeded my expectations, and when something didn't go according to plan, the company did whatever was within its power to fix it. When I return to Uganda, I have no doubt that I'll book my return trip with Karumuna Safaris.
AE
20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Caught all the big 5, thanks to our experienced driver/guide
First of all, Robert is very prompt in asking all my question regarding the tour (took the 5 days Masai Mara tour). Had many changes, but he was able to accommodate to it. As we missed our flight early in the morning, plans were changed and Robert was able to change our itinerary at the very last minute (I had to email him in the wee hour, and he arranged everything quickly).
Our driver/guide, Arony, is definitely the best! He is very patient and experienced! We were a small group of 6, and each one of us were comfortable in the van, especially with the Long drive. He explained to us all the different types of animals in Masai Mara, and because of his fast and good driving and sharp eyes, we managed to see 4/5 big5 in just 1 day! Not to mention, we also manage to witness first hand when the lion hunt a wildebees (we were the first at the scene)t, all thanks to him!! I cannot explain how special that moment is when we were watching the lion hunting on the wildebeest! He is always trying his best to make sure that we get to see up close of the animals. I have to say, he is probably our lucky charm that we are able to witness all these amazing moments!
Tents were basic but the people at the camp were nice and friendly! With the price you pay, don't expect good tent or food. But everything was good because of the people around that makes it comfortable for us.
Lastly, got to see the last big 5, Rhinos, in Lake Nakuru. Abit disappointed with the flamingo, but totally understand why there isn't much left there, due to the heavy rainfall which happened 2 years ago which destroyed some parts of the lake.
Nonetheless, we had an amazing time with Arony and would totally recommend the tour to anyone who is up for aan adventure with basic needs.
And big thanks to Robert, Arony and everyone on the team!!
under20 years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
A safari full of humour and beauty
The Okavango Delta provided more beauty than any of other safari destinations we stayed at. The beautiful sunsets over the water gave us memories to always remember. The scenery was incredible. In terms of accomodation we had great food and excellent service. Our rooms gave us our own private balcony with a stunning view. The staff were very funny and good with kids. However, sometimes they joked around and would miss small details like birds. As we also stayed in safari lodges in Zambia, we found that the staff at the Botswana safari lodges had a lot more humour and seemed to love a laugh. One night they even sung and danced to us and the other guests. In conclusion, the Okavango Delta was a beautiful, enjoyable and fun experience and I would recommend it to anyone.
50-65 years of age | Experience level: over 5 safaris
An awesome exsperiance and I make sure I visit the KNP more than once a year.
If you are prepared to wake up early and go back to the campsite at closing times you will see a lot of wildlife.
The scenery differs a lot in the KNP depending what you prefer. I love the lower part ( Crocodile bridge & Lower Sabie) of the park and the top part ( Punda Maria & Pafri ) the most.
In the lower part of the park ( Crocodile bridge & Lower Sabie) you are almost guarantee to see the big 5 in one day.
The top part ( Punda Maria & Pafri ) have the oldest trees and beautiful Fever tree woods.
The weather is average 30 degrees Celsius during the day and 15 degrees Celsius at night.
The are beautiful air-con accommodation in most of the rest camps.
Food is good but expensive and can be pursues much cheaper in towns around the park.
Not sure about Transportation but I think it will be good to hire a vehicle for a company and travel to the KPN to be able to spend the night inside the park. This way you can enter the park very early. 60 minutes before the gate opens for day visitor's.
By a guide book from any store that will indicate all roads and animals including birds that can be found in the park and safe the money for the guide:-))
The safest place in SA if you adhere to the park rules.
under20 years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
Review about Botswana by Peculiar Perception
The wildlife that we saw was not as much as Zambia.
50-65 years of age | Experience level: over 5 safaris
Review about South Africa by Bruwer Burger
SA is the place to see the big 5 in natural and safe environment. See my flickr stream.
US
Experience level: 2-5 safaris
Great Tour of Dar es Saalam and Safari @ Mukumi National Park
Two great experiences – a city tour of Dar es Saalam and a full day safari in Mukumi National Park. 14 of us (7 adults and 7 teenagers) from the US arrived in TZ. On day one, Kanuth Adventure Safaris Ltd. provide a great tour of Dar es Saalam visiting an outside museum that provided history of TZ, a tour of other historical sites & stopping at a local market seeing Tinga Tinga artists at work.
A week later we were picked up in Morogoro for a day safari @ Mukumi National Park. An amazing day seeing many animals in their local habitat learning about their migration. Vehicles were very comfortable with great viewing. Guides were very professional, Two great experiences – a city tour of Dar es Saalam and a full day safari in Mukumi National Park. 14 of us (7 adults and 7 teenagers) from the US arrived in TZ. On day one, Kanuth Adventure Safaris Ltd. provide a great tour of Dar es Saalam visiting a museum, providing history of TZ, seeing other sites & stopping at a local market seeing Tinga Tinga artists at work.
A week later we were picked up in Morogoro for a day safari @ Mukumi National Park. Amazing day seeing the animals & learning about their habitat. Vehicles were very comfortable with great viewing. Guides were professional, on time, flexible and informative – great 1st class service. Excellent communication via email while setting up activities. Looking forward to using Kanuth Adventure Safaris on my next trip to TZ. Thanks!
US
50-65 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Outstanding communication and service! Unforgettable experience!
Sunny Safaris is highly recommended! I booked our safari to the Serengeti and Ngorongoro
Crater for 4 days, for a family of three. Communication and booking was easy with quick responses to our questions and requests. Our driver, Joseph, picked us up in a remote village in northern Tanzania to begin our safari, and delivered us to the airport in Kilimanjaro at the end of our trip. Our accommodations were in a tent cabin and lodge, complete with comfortable bed, running water, hot showers, lovely dining experience and delicious food. Joseph made every effort to make our journey memorable and comfortable, from sunset
drives to see elephants to several wild cat sightings.
Thank you, Joseph and Jessica, for the outstanding service and unforgettable experience!
CA
50-65 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Holiday of a Lifetime with Explendor Tours
Every part of this vacation was exceptional. Our tour guide Stephen and his wife Emily made this a trip of a lifetime for my family. We spent 3 weeks in Botswana, Zambia and South Africa traveling around viewing the wildlife and I can say we were impressed. We saw every animal we wanted to see in the wild not just at the sanctuaries with the exception of a cheetah, which we did see at an endangered species centre. All of our accommodations were excellent but the girls at Rivernest Boutique Cottages made us feel like part of the family.
If you want to be up close with the elephants, Elephant Sands is the place to stay. We watched them frolic in the water hole for hours.
I think anyone travelling to South Africa should book their trip with Explendor Tours, they will not be disappointed.
Thanks again to Stephen and Emily for making our vacation one we will never forget, you were amazing hosts, we will miss you both.
DK
50-65 years of age | Experience level: first safari
The Best holiday of all
Right from the first conversation Samuel was very committet. We Got the Best driver Sammy. He led US into the heart of Africa. It was amazing and professional.