20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Unforgettable Safari Experience
Diana from Venture Africa organized an amazing trip for us which took us to Maasai Mara, Lake Nakuru, Lake Navaisha, Hells Gate and Amboseli. Diana kept in contact with us during the entire booking process. Our driver and guide for the trip was the fantastic (and famous) Ambrose, who was extremely knowledgeable and untiringly ensured that we saw as many animals as possible. On our trip we saw many different animals in all kinds of situations and were lucky enough to not only see the big five but also to see all kinds of baby animals. The accommodation provided on safari was excellent and the vehicle was comfortable.
I would wholeheartedly recommend both Diana and Ambrose for anyone looking for an unforgettable, value for money safari experience in Kenya.
US
20-35 years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
Exciting and Relaxing 5 day Safari in Tanzania
My husband and I recently returned from a 5 day, 4 night Safari in Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater June 29th – July 2. Our Safari started in Serengeti after we flew from Kilimanjaro Airport to Seronera airport. We were happy we chose to fly instead of drive because this allowed us time for a game drive on the first day (and avoided extra bumps and dust while driving) and we loved the atmosphere of the Seronera airport. We were picked up by our driver Dickson who was friendly and extremely knowledgeable. He provided great recommendations but tailored the trip around our needs and how we wanted to spend our vacation (for example starting a little later in the morning because we needed some extra sleep after 2 days of flying).
The driver is an important part of your Safari experience. His knowledge of the parks and roads is what will ensure an eventful but safe experience. Dickson had several years of experience, so he knew the roads, the animal habits, and how to avoid potential issues with the vehicle while navigating the rough terrain.
In Serengeti, we stayed in the Kati Kati camp and were very pleased with the accommodations, food, and service. The camp feels isolated and rustic, but has all the comforts one needs. In Ngorongoro, we stayed in the Ngorongoro Wildlife lodge which had great views of the park; the food here was not as good as Kati Kati. We enjoyed both accommodations but preferred the Kati Kati Tented camp.
While in Serengeti, we did the Hot Air Balloon safari and highly recommend the activity. It was expensive, but probably the highlight of our trip. We got to see plenty of animals from the balloon and enjoyed a terrific breakfast afterwards. Overall, everything went smoothly and as planned and we recommend using Shadows of Africa for a Safari in Tanzania.
US
under20 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Belen went above and beyond to accommodate me even when i had to do last minute changes.
Belen always communicated very quickly and was able to make last minute changes for me even when I ended up not needing to add more people to my group. The accommodations were very generous and the flexibility my tour guide had for me was amazing. The knowledge my guide had about the different parks of Tanzania and the history of Tanzania truly made it a very memorable experience. I would definitely recommend this company for organizing any safari.
US
Best. Adventure. Ever.
Great company, amazing people. We traveled to Tanzania, and stayed at the Ngorogoro Crater and in the Serengeti.
Trip planning from initial outset with Jake and Stacy at SOA was so stress free and fun. They happily provided solid recommendations and answered each and every question (no matter how trivial); their replies came within the day if not immediately. As an unexpected bonus, they created an interactive online trip itinerary, with a map of our trip, descriptions of the camps/accommodations, and general info on the areas we would visit, among other things. Each and every time we changed plans, they updated the itinerary. Without prompting, Jake and Stacy sent loads of information on travel reqs/visa/vaccinations, packing, and also on the areas, animals, and culture. And they were so friendly while doing it! Their advice and answers made it all fun, and we felt very prepared at each step while there. Jake and Stacy also happily connected us with their representative in Zanzibar, who was happy to book transfers and a tour for us, although we had arranged the flight/hotel to Zanzibar on our own (also great service there!).
As for the safari itself, our guide, Loma, deserves a separately devoted paragraph, with super special appreciation and recognition. Loma was a perfect fit for us, he was so fun and friendly, and our trip would not have been the same without him! He picked us up from the airport in a happy mood, and even after spending 5 days in the car with us (many 12+ days) and away from his home, we became friends and were promising to return to visit his family and kids. Having grown up in the area, Loma is very knowledgeable about the areas (seriously impressed that anyone can navigate the Serengeti without a map!), the culture and people (he had an answer every time we asked what or why), the vegetation/plants, and definitely the animals (even the birds!). He knew the specific habitats and behaviors of each animal, and made very good on his promise for us to see each of the Big 5 -- twice! He also tracked the ever-elusive cheetahs! Loma allowed us to get some very great photos. He was also very attentive in general, and made sure that we were always comfortable and doing well, even when we got to the camps. He got up and out early with us and made sure that we experienced every bit possible, but remained totally flexible to whatever we wanted (shopping included!). On the last day, he even arranged a trip to the local village at Mto wa Mbu to see the banana plantation, meet the local tribes, and shop their art and carvings. Loma went above and beyond to make our trip extra special. It really felt as though he was enjoying his time on safari with us, and I hope that he enjoyed it as much as we did.
The jeep was comfortable and clean, and appeared no different than any of the other jeeps that we passed, except perhaps even a bit nicer than most. It has a roof which easily pops, binoculars, a power strip, and a cooler where we sometimes packed wine for lunch. There were only 2 of us, and we had plenty of room to move around.
SOA offered 5 star service from our initial inquiry all the way through. I would return and use this company (and guide!) time after time.
35-50 years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
Outstanding Operator
Communication was excellent throughout, suggesting and adapting itinerary to suit our requirements, helpful suggestions given prior to travel. The fact that apart from tips and beer the quoted price was for all took away stress of budgeting and was excellent value for money for a well organised, stress free trip.
Service throughout was outstanding from Eman (CEO), Shafi (Driver) and John (Cook).
Safari in the Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Tarangire and Manyara were beyond expectations, accommodation was great for budget camping option, vehicle was comfortable, and the guides purchased blankets for us as our luggage failed to arrive via Abu Dhabi which had all the warm clothing (it is needed for Ngorongoro). Food produced by John was outstanding, was not expecting to put on weight on safari but somehow managed to. Quality was excellent and quantity sometimes too much! Saw the big 5 plus more on safari. Responsible driver who had the knack of finding things and followed the rules unlike some other company vehicles who were witnessed going off road and haranguing animals.
Highly recommended safari company, 7 nights and 8 days that were truly unforgettable. Eman knows what he is doing and creates a travel option to suit budgets and interests. Thankyou to Eman, Shafi and John for creating an unforgettable experience. Do not hesitate to use this company.
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50-65 years of age | Experience level: first safari
WOW! Still on a high from the experience and hope to never come down!
My husband and I returned at the beginning of June (2018) from an awesome trip through Kanyezi Safaris! Chris and Michael (Father and Son) are great guides and we had the most amazing experience! A few days in Cape Town (seeing penguins, the Indian Ocean, Table Top Mtn, wine tasting, a trip to Robben Island, etc., etc), then to Sabi Sands Reserve for 2/day safaris (more impressive and awe-inspiring than you can begin to imagine...my walls are now filled with animals, beautiful sunsets and my favorite memories) and then we finished up in Zimbabwe (Victoria Falls - AMAZING! And more animals!). Communications were a bit confused at times prior to our departure, but Chris and Michael were always ready to take our calls and answer any questions we had...and we had a lot! Each one was answered so personally, making us feel as if we knew these two before we set foot in Africa!
Chris met us at the Airport in Cape Town (with flowers) and we were put at ease right away! I highly recommend them! One of the people traveling with us was doing this for the 2nd time and she was traveling alone. I think that speaks to how they run things....We were very well cared for! They are a small company and, as such, they treat their clients as if they're family! It was everything we were promised, and more. The photos we took on safari left me feeling like I could have been working for National Geographic. It was, as they say, a trip of a lifetime! The accommodations (especially at Sabi Sabi) were perfect! The guides and trackers are so knowledgeable and humble. I was so impressed with the knowledge they had. Wish everyone could experience what we did! I truly cannot make a higher recommendation!
DE
65+ years of age | Experience level: first safari
Informative and pleasant day-trip around Nairobi
After a conference, I had 1 free day to spend in Nairobi. Hallmark Travel Planners made several suggestions of which I chose the National Park, Giraffe Center and the house of Karen Blixen. The driver/guide Josphat was punctual and friendly and very knowledgable about the animals to see in the Park, their habits and behaviour. We had ample time in the Park and still enough for the other attractions, so the tour was well planned. It was an excellent experience.
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50-65 years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
It was a safari of a lifetime and exceeded all of our expectations!
I have so many wonderful things to say about Walter and Safari Online that I don't even know where to begin!
Our mom grew up in Central and South Africa so we had visited the continent many times. My sister and I wanted to take our teens and husbands to Africa to experience the magic. We had a limited budget but big and specific expectations and by some miracle Walter was able to manage both.
For a couple years we had been looking around for safari companies and Safari Online was the most reasonably priced outfit we could find.
That being said, this did not feel like a budget safari at all! In fact our kids marveled at how posh the experience was. We have traveled a lot throughout the world and most people in our group agreed that Gibb's Farm was the most beautiful place we had ever been. Then our tented safari was wonderful as well! Amazing food, attentive service and beautiful tents.
Walter's attention to detail was amazing. Whenever we had a transfer, we never had to wonder who was picking us up - it all worked seamlessly.
Additionally, our group had some unique medical needs during the trip. With only a phone call Walter made arrangements for medication to be delivered to various camps.
And on the last day we decided to spend some time in Dar Es Salaam and again, with a quick email Walter arranged for a driver for us.
Walter was always so friendly and accommodating. Before the trip we had a ton of questions, dozens of emails and a few changes and Walter always seemed to happy to help us.
Arranging a safari through an online service could have been a disaster. But we ended up having the best safari we've even been on!
A HUGE THANK YOU TO WALTER AND EVERYONE AT SAFARI ONLINE!
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20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
I had an excellent experience !! The team is amazing and the safari's are a die for.will definitely
A service above the rest!! The guides use perfect English.I had a wonderful time experiencing something different from my culture and with very friendly people.
IE
35-50 years of age | Experience level: over 5 safaris
Serengeti - Unforgettable trip, the perfect guide
Helena,
Sorry for the delay in coming back to you. I had intended to email you as soon as we got home to let you know how wonderful the trip was but somehow the time has slipped by. We had the most wonderful honeymoon. We couldn't have had a better time. Martin was our guide and was perfect for us. He had eyes like a hawk and ears like a bat.
He seemed to have a sense of what the animals would do next and always got the perfect spot for us to park. We seen a large number of safari providers and were constantly grateful that we booked with It Started in Africa. Some of the other guys were driving dangerously and flying from one thing to the next. Martin took it pole pole and we got to relax and enjoy all the wonderful sights around us.
We were lucky to see the big five and two cheetah's. Martin was focused on showing us as much as he could during the day and ensuring we got to see the big five. Some stand out moments were a herd of Elephants chasing a pack of lions, a male lion protecting his kill and some vets pulling a tranquilized Rhino by the tail to bring him to the ground.
We were extremely happy with the accommodation you picked for us. In particular Manyara wildlife safari camp. It was beautiful, the views were fabulous, the staff extremely friendly and helpful and the food was high quality. We only wish we could have stayed there another night to make use of the pool.
I really can't put into words how much we enjoyed our time with Martin. He was very knowledgeable, thoughtful and kind. He was able to bring me to the doctor in central Serengeti when I a reaction to some mosquito bites and regularly checked up on me to make sure I was ok.
We will put a review letting people know what a great company you were to deal with.
Thanks for all your assistance organizing our trip of a lifetime.
Vanessa and Marius
