We love to hear from our clients on their return from Africa and here is a selection of recent comments. Let us know if you would like to talk to someone who has already traveled with us, it's something we'd happily organize.

Wait a Little was great! Gerti and Philip run the place really nicely. I was impressed with the horses. Well kept and well trained!

I loved Gerti's food and it was just amazing how close Philip got us to the wildlife - he really is a fantastic guide! We felt safe and enjoyed every moment of it!

A big thank you to Charlie for recommending this to us.

Andrea Sellner and Nina Buschmann, Austria

Greetings John,

I just wanted to write you a note to say how AMAZING my Aardvark-planned safari was. Tracy helped me plan a Kenyan safari that was everything I dreamed a safari would be and more! It was my first trip to Africa as well as my first safari and I fell in love! It's been just under a month since I returned and I still think about the trip numerous times per day. I stayed at Lewa Safari Camp and Offbeat Mara and it was the absolute best trip I have ever taken (and I've travelled a lot!) I was able to see ALL the animals there were to see, even a huge herd of wildebeests crossing the Mara River! I was beyond thrilled.

I also wanted to mention how great Tracy was from the moment I first talked to her. She asked me a bunch of questions and was able to plan the safari of my dreams (I've wanted to go on a safari since I was a child). I can't say enough great things about her - she was super-knowledgeable, friendly, and would return my phone calls/emails within minutes! I couldn't have asked for anything more...She was beyond fabulous!

I've already started saving for my next safari which will hopefully be in 2012 (and which will of course be booked through Aardvark!).

All the best,

Lucy Suran, Boston, MA

Dear John, Tracy and All:

Just wanted to let you know that our trip to Johannesburg and Zambia, from beginning to end, was just amazing.

Before contacting Aardvark, I had interviewed safari companies all over the world and what I got back was standard stock safari packages emailed or mailed to me. But, from my first contact with Aardvark, you took the time to get to know me and find out what I wanted. Thank you for spending so much time with me, holding my hand, answering my thousand questions and planning a trip that was totally personalized to exactly what I wanted. The variety of the places you booked us, and the order in which we visited each place, was absolutely perfect.

Our two days in Johannesburg with Robin Binckes (Spear of the Nation), were very emotional and thought provoking. Robin is an amazing historian and an incredible story teller. Anyone transiting through Johannesburg should consider spending at least one day with Robin. Tongabezi at Vic Falls, in Honeymoon House, was four days of magic. The Norman Carr camps, Nsolo and Kakuli, were like visiting an old friend who happened to own a safari bush camp. At Nsolo and Kakuli, I discovered where “no where” really is, but I also discovered the beauty of the night sky with a million stars, going to sleep to the sounds of hippos and frogs and experiencing the “hands on” Africa that I had hoped for. And lastly our four nights at Sausage Tree were the ultimate in bush luxury.

Again thank you. Your expert first hand knowledge of each place made this the “trip of a lifetime”.

Kathy Robinson, San Diego, CA

I want to thank you again for helping us plan our Southern African adventure. We had an amazing time! You did a great job of making the best of our budget and 2 week time frame. Constantia Stables was a really nice B&B with great service and an amazing breakfast! Lola treated us like family and our room next to the pool was absolutely beautiful. All of the sights in Cape Town, wine tasting, and shark diving/whale watching made for an amazing trip.

Vic Falls are stunning and are an absolute must-see and much more grand than what I expected (especially after seeing Niagara Falls several times already). Linyati was the best camp that we stayed at. The level of service, quality of food, and attention to detail was unmatched! We saw over 50 species of land mammals including a lot of elephants, leopard, lion, zebra, buffalo, giraffe, etc. Finally, Xakanaka was a great camp as well.

Best wishes and thanks for the wonderful planning! We look forward to working with you soon on our next safari adventure. Please don't hesitate to e-mail us if other clients need a referral or have questions.

Best wishes,

Sonia & Chintan, Woodridge, IL

Just a note of thanks for putting up with me and ultimately booking a wonderful and exciting trip. As you might recall our trip from Argentina to New York goes through Chile, Easter Island, the Society Islands and nearby atolls, Australia, Africa and the UK and Ireland, but our stay in Africa was, as our kids repeatedly said, insane.

As in insanely good, insanely beautiful, exciting, fun and unforgettable. The lodge in Livingstone was wonderful and the daredevil activities we did were crazy. At the end of the day, though, it was our safari with Brent Reed that blew us away, just as you predicted. He, his staff, the camps, the drives, the baseball (yes baseball) at lunch, the flyfishing (yup), and the non-stop game action made for the apex of a trip of a lifetime. And when Brent jumped out of the truck, dove into a bush and came out with an 8 foot python, well, I thought that only happened in movies.

So, thanks.

GM O'Connell and family, Argentina

We put together a fantastic safari combing three branches of the same family, East Coast and West. The boys particularly enjoyed their US vs Masai soccer game.

Dear John and Tracy,

I just wanted to take a moment to thank you for putting together the most amazing trip for all of us. It was truly an extraordinary adventure - one that none of us will ever forget. We all fell deeply in love with the land, people and wildlife. It was fun, challenging and adventuresome at every turn. Each location was unique and fascinating in different ways. We left feeling thrilled and wanting more. Thank you for helping us design this most beautiful journey.

Julie McAlpine, Corona Del Mar, CA

It takes a lot for anything to live up to "the experience of a lifetime" The safari that Aardvark built for us certainly fulfilled that promise.

We presented them with 9 people ranging in age from 10-70 .They were given a basic idea of what we wanted: an opportunity to see a safari through the eyes of of our children and grandchildren. We also hoped that it would give everyone a chance to put aside busy schedules and disparate lifestyles and to just be a family again.

What we had were two weeks of amazing experiences, together time,alone time,and the opportunity to become a family under new dynamics. Safe, fun, exciting, extraordinary sights, wonderful coordination between the US tean and those on the ground in Kenya.

Many thanks,

Rita Sharma and family, Williamsport, IN

A visit to Zanzibar was a wonderful way to celebrate and relax after our Kilimanjaro climb and work in local villages with the San Diego based non-profit Plant With Purpose. The Breezes Beach Club and Spa offered beautiful accommodations, excellent service and was perfect for our 6-family group. Thank you Aardvark Safaris for paying attention to every detail and making our trip a success.

Cindy Outlaw and family, San Diego, CA

John, Tracy, the rest of Aardvark staff,

Just wanted to write a quick note to say thank you for the amazing job you did helping to plan our recent trip to Kenya. The service you gave us was first class. We really appreciate the individual attention and the genuine interest you showed in figuring out what we wanted in a trip...and then you made it all come together, seamlessly for us.

We have a lot of experience traveling and this was, by far ,one of the very best trips we have ever had. The game lodges/camps were amazing. We saw so many animals, and the kids have a ton of stories and memories that will stay with them forever. They are still talking about the gazelle we saw being born, in the Mara, the cheetahs hunting, and the lions "making baby lions"! We lost count of the number of giraffes we saw. The morning we spent at a Massai school was also an unforgettable experience to add to the list.The whole trip was an amazing family experience for us. Thanks again for all your work.

Mark and Mary, London, Ontario, Canada

We had the most fantastic time from start to finish.

As it turned out we were the only two on our camping safari! All the accommodation was first class and the guys looking after us couldn’t be better. Our guide Mompati had such incredible knowledge that we learnt so much everyday. Thank you for helping us find such a memorable holiday. We shall recommend Aardvark to as many friends and family as possible.

Marion and Ian Tibbitt, Somerset, England

This is Meredith's second trip with Aardvark. Last year, she went to Rwanda and Uganda with us and this year, returned to show her brother Kenya. 

Well, you scored once again. We had a great time on the Mara. The camp was just right for us and we saw tons of animals. Plus Penny [the camp manager] is my new best friend. I loved her. And Ethiopia was magic.

Thanks again John...You're the best!

Meredith Fisher, Venice, CA 

Thanks for pulling together a fantastic trip to Southern Africa. Your staff did a fantastic job of integrating our eclectic needs on budget. While diverse, you managed to address our interests around the tourist draws of Cape Town, a rewarding safari at Kruger, and a cherished experience at Victoria Falls.

The Victoria & Alfred Hotel in Cape Town was a perfect place to adjust from our travels and be within walking distance of Cape Town’s highlights.

Kapama at Kruger hit the trifecta, providing us a top-notch personalized safari experience (we saw every animal on our list), at a great price, and still was able to shoot me into town to watch the rugby matches among local fans.

Lastly, the rustic Chundukwa River Lodge near Victoria Falls was a great launching point to see the falls in Zambia and Zimbabwe, facilitate an exciting day-safari at Chobe Park in Botswana, and provided a great window for us to experience local life at a nearby village and school.

Thank you again for catering to our eclectic -borderline erratic- interests, providing us a genuinely unforgettable experience.

Paul Schrimpf and Melinda Tyndall, Chicago, IL

We just returned from our wonderful African safari adventure! Thanks to John Spence and Aardvark for all their help in planning and organizing the trip. Everything went so smoothly!

We loved the lodges and camps we visited, where the hosts always welcomed us more like guests than tourists. The local guides were fun and knowledgeable and shared many stories and much information. Even the wildlife cooperated.

A favorite experience was hearing a hippo splash in the river while still in bed inside our tent. We saw elephant families, lion and cubs, big and small giraffe, hippo, crocodile cheetah, leopard... and more almost every day. And then there was the most amazing wildebeest migration across the Mara River! Thousands of animals thundering past. We will always treasure the memories of this special trip. Thanks again John and Aardvark!

Jeanne and George Wagle, Granger, IN

Our family of three all loved our trip to Kenya and dream about a return visit!

The trip began on the right note with the friendly greeting by our driver who provided great chauffeur service to and from the airports. We absolutely adored OffBeat Mara. The hosting by Piers and Penny was terrific. The meals were beyond our expectations and the wildlife was absolutely amazing. We felt that the experience was even better that watching the beloved National Geographic because we were smack in the middle of it all . Safety was always paraount..

We had fantastic guides-David and Denis. These guides have x-ray vision in spotting animals, getting unbelievably close to the animals with never compromising the safely of the guests or scaring or annoying the wildlife, speak flawless English, are a wealth of information and have the utmost talent in gently navigating the jeeps up and down the most rugged terrain.

Our stay at Sabuk in Laikipia was also memorable. The Sabuk site is truly superb-I will never forget the view from our bathtub and shower. This is a very romantic spot. It is also a wonderful location for riding camels and participating in authentic cultural experiences, such a visiting a local school and village and seeing some brilliant leaping and dancing. Yes, we all had memories to last a lifetime. Thanks for organizing.

The Chenier Family, Westmount, Quebec, Canada

Just wanted to say thank you for arranging a wonderful trip!!!

The climb up Kili was great and we really enjoyed our safari afterwards at Sayari Camp. All of the arrangements were perfect. Thanks again!”

Keith Lehr, North Carolina

Well, what can one say after our trip? Fabulous. Otherworldly. Unbelieveable. Beautiful. Epic. Perfectly arranged by your company. No detail was overlooked. Every point of service impeccable.

Within minutes of landing at the Mara our Rekero guide, John, had a little radio chat with a peer and we were looking at "Olive", the lady leopard whose territory included Rekero Camp. Later that afternoon of the first day, John had us witnessing the stalk and kill of an errant wildebeest by the Marsh Pride. My son-in-law's eyes were as big as saucers. Next day John jockeyed us into position A to see a big herd crossing the Mara. An endless stream of wildebeest and zebra. Crocs too sated to eat another. In camp at night, buffalo, hippo and elephant. Birds all over the place. Even a minor herd crossing just downstream from Rekero.

At a number of points so many animals in all directions my mind couldn't process what my eyes were scanning.

Sarara was mystically beautiful, all by itself in 850,000 acres of desert. Animals there : elephants (in camp one night), reticulated giraffes, lesser kudu, gerenuk, klipspringer, dik-dik, leopard (only at dark by the river), baboon, vervet monkey, colubus monkey, impala, wart hog (in the yard), hyena, lots of game birds, and a whole lot of other birds. Visits to the singing wells and the menyatta compound were spiritual. The infinity pool just the thing after hours in the dry heat.

Wrapping it up with Peponi and Lamu was just right. Pampered service with unmatched fresh seafood. Oh that mangrove crab! Lars and Carol such welcoming hosts. And simply the most beautiful beaches ever, amplified by the extreme tides.

Again, thanks...

The Green and Helming Family, Richmond, VA 

Hi John,

I just wanted to drop you a line and let you know our trip was absolutely wonderful. Thank you so much for putting it together for us. Everywhere we went they treated us like family or royalty.

The guides were incredible and the way you laid it out for us was perfect. The accommodations were beyond our dreams, and although everyday is a challenge for Kristin she was a trooper and loved every minute of it. Our pilot on the flights, Garith was great he simply asked us what time we wanted to be picked up and he would have the plane there. He reminded me that we were paying and that whatever time we wanted was ok with him.

Again thank you and your staff.

The Martinez Family, Encinitas, CA

A big thank you is in order for the team at Aardvark and especially John Spence. Embarking on our first visit to Africa, including attending the World Cup in various cities, going on Safari and climbing Kilimanjaro—it was no easy feat to organize the logistics.

Aardvark performed flawlessly. Not only did we stay at Djuma Lodge which afforded us up close views of the “Big 5” on our first two game drives, but we had the best guide and porter team on Kilimanjaro.

For our Kilimanjaro climb, our guide took care to brief us prior to departure, check our equipment, constantly made sure the cooks and porters kept us safe and healthy (proper hygiene), checked our oxygen and pulse throughout the trip and helped us monitor for AMS in addition to carrying oxygen tanks and providing us with emergency evacuation options should it come to that. Our guide, Godson, was so knowledgeable about safe mountaineering (was certified in the American Wilderness First Responder program), that we just focused on our climb, had fun, learned about the mountain and its flora/animals and vegetation zones and made friends for life with the team. Our success at Uhuru Peak was a direct result of the entire team, and we are grateful.

Andrew Poole and Jessica Pavlas, Darien, Connecticut

Bottom line, the trip was fabulous! Mashatu camp was great. We were amazed every day by what we saw - and loved the privacy of the camp. The
small groups that we were with on the drives were great - and we really felt taken care of. The mountain biking safari and walking safari were amazing. All of the guides were very professional and we were throughly impressed!

The World Cup was awesome. We loved the game and the atmosphere of Melrose Arch. Needless to say our highlight of this part of the trip was the game! Rocktail beach was amazing. This was Aaron's favorite part of the trip. He even got to get a dive in! The area is beautiful and we would recommend it to anyone.

From talking with some others that did safaris, we found their experience at other camps wasn't as enjoyable as we experienced - they were crowded and didn't get the personal experience we did. So, we were very happy.  We will certainly be recommending these places in the future to anyone wishing to travel to Africa - and we will certainly be recommending your services at Aardvark Safaris! Thank you again for all of your help. 

Sarah and Aaron Kuhn, Lawrenceville, New Jersey 

I had to let you know that I had the most fabulous time.  The trip exceeded my expectations in every way.  It truly was the trip of a lifetime.  The guides, West and David, were great at tracking game, keeping the riding exciting yet safe, and were terrific company.  We saw a ton of game (hundreds of elephant, lion, hyena, giraffe, zebra, etc) and had amazing meals, fabulous riding (the best was a canter with a group of zebra that I will never forget).  I have been on a few riding trips before but this one was just out of this world.  I really cannot tell you how much fun I had.  Thank you for your help organizing the trip.

Louise Peters, Westport, Connecticut.

Richard and I would like to thank you for guiding us to the 'trip of our dreams'. By simply talking to us on the phone you were able to schedule a safari that I could have only wished for without knowing you.

From the instant we arrived at the Nairobi airport until we had to bid farewell to Kenya we were treated to the best food, service and guides available anywhere. Their knowledge and genuine caring made us feel not only welcome but also as members of their family if only briefly.

Our guides,David, Jackson,Josh and Daniel, while we stayed in the tented camps were patient,kind, supremely knowledgeable about the animals and eco-system and very generously, willing to share information on the culture. This allowed us to understand Kenya in all it's richness and diversity. A huge thank you to these young men. Our world needs great ambassadors like them.

The Lodge at Sosian can not be diminished on any count. The guides are knowledgeable,scenery, as anywhere we went, incomparable, and our hosts, Annabelle and Steve gracious and as always patient with us, Backwoods Us citizens.

But I can not sign off without telling you how at home we felt in the tented camps. Everyone who goes to Africa/Kenya will see the animals,overwhelming that they are. But the tented camps make you feel as one with Kenya while always feeling safe. Piers, Harriet and Eddy have done everything possible to enhance their guest experience. The food,service and even positioning of the tents for maximum views and privacy is set to maximize the experience of the safari.

Richard and I would not hesitate to recommend Aardvark Safaris to even the meekest of travelers. My advice; Save your money! Don't go to a five-star restaurant. Sign up for a safari, the food is better and the service can not be matched

Richard and Jane Leavitt, Longmont, Colorado

I had been contemplating the ‘ trip of a lifetime’ for a long time to celebrate a big birthday and was researching and reading up on Africa and all the different experiences this vast continent had to offer. I wanted to book a riding safari in Kenya. I had read about Aardvark Safaris and I was delighted to find out they were located in the neighborhood.   So one morning after riding I paid Aardvark Safaris a visit.

I spent an hour talking to John Spence who attentively listened to me.  I explained what I wanted to get out of this trip, and every now and then he would ask questions and give me suggestions. 

We came up with a trip that still makes my heart long for Africa whenever I think about it. 

In February this year, I set out on my own to Kenya. My husband was not keen on me travelling alone to Africa but John reassured him by allowing and arranging for him to call previous clients who had travelled to Kenya and Rwanda with Aardvark. I joined a riding safari that surpassed all my expectations.  I rode alongside gentle and wild creatures alike.  I saw lions, cheetah, giraffe, and hyena during my rides. 

After my riding safari, I flew out to Rwanda to visit the gorillas.  I trekked and saw them twice, and each time I saw them, I was in awe.  Definitely a must do on everyone’s list!

I am very glad I took the time to seek out an Africa specialist, because John outdid himself in planning the perfect trip.  Everything ran like clockwork –seamless and smooth.  The food was glorious, the camps amazing and the guides made the trip so very special. 

Thank you Aardvark for making this such a memorable trip for me,  I thought it would be a one off trip but already I am planning how to get back there.

Suzanne Losonczi, San Diego, California

I had just turned 50 and was looking for something over the top and unusual to make it a most memorable year. Well, this trip fit the bill! The first two days in Giraffe Manor were the perfect start to experiencing Africa’s genteel hospitality, amazing cuisine and some first hand experiences with the resident Rothschild Giraffe.

A short flight by prop plane into the Masai Mara and we were in the bush! Our guide, Mark was experienced, professional and a thoughtful host – the staff of 18 took care of our every need. The food was the best and most diverse of any place I’ve been and the wine/beer flowed generously. Be prepared for lots of sundowners! A little (OK a LOT) of rain the first 2 days bought some challenges, but the 6 in our group were up to the task and soon the sun was out, showing off Africa in all her finest green hues and colors. The game was plentiful and varied. Our horses were healthy, shiny, sure footed and fleet. Never have I galloped so far and so fast before. These horses are so fit they barely break a sweat, even after the longest gallops over open plain.

A few highlights: Encountering hunting lion after a good gallop in the rain – I will forever see our guide, bullwhip in hand, bullying them back as they try to figure out another way to approach us in a hunting crouch, ready to spring - I still hear the crack of the bullwhip in my dreams… galloping with a tower of 13 Giraffe, our horses flat out in a 2 beat rhythm as the Giraffe silently and languidly remained forever ahead of us; it’s as if they’re in a movie and it’s in slow motion… seeing two lion kills in a row, with jackal and hyena providing part of the drama – entering a lion’s den in the Loita Hills after they had just left it and knowing they were within a stone’s throw. I could go on!

I believe you feel so alive in Africa because you are perpetually in proximity of life or death. This trip is not for the timid or inexperienced; but if you want to feel utterly alive, challenged and get out of your comfort zone, this is it! Africa and her mysteries await, and I can’t wait to return.

Cindy Cremona, San Diego, USA

First let me convey my appreciation on the way in which you handled a difficult situation. I know this took considerable effort on your part, and it did not go un-noticed.

The trip was great, but we all agree the Skeleton Coast was the highlight of the trip. Bertus, aside from being a “super pilot” and a great guide, is a real gentleman, one of the nicest men I have ever met. I am proud to have met him, and will never forget what he has added to our lives.

Thanks again for all your help.

Charles & Christina Beck, New York, USA

We were lucky enough on our trip up Kilimanjaro to be accompanied by Victoria herself who was doing her research on the area the best way possible, by doing it herself!  The guides, the porters, and the crew at the base camp were without exception incredible. The organization was impeccable and we felt tremendously well looked after for our entire time on the mountain. Walking into the fully prepared camp shortly before dusk after a hard day's trekking it was a wonderful boost to the spirits to see the entire group of guides and porters standing waiting for us and singing as we arrived.  The omnipresent cup of tea was also greatly appreciated! We really can't say enough good things about the entire team. When we return to Africa for our next big adventure we will undoubtedly be using Aardvark Safaris who looked after us amazingly well before, during and after our trip.

Jon and Allison Beer, New York, USA

Thank you for arranging a phenomenal experience for my Dad and brother. They lodges were great and accommodations and food were first class. They enjoyed the fishing - my brother caught an 11 pound tiger. They have memories forever and the experience has changed their lives!

John Jennings, San Diego, California

The easiest most stressless wedding around!  From leaving the UK to arriving back everything was expertly organised in a friendly and professional manner.  Nothing was too much hassle and we had the most memorable fews days of our lives.

Flora and Tom Corbett, Inverness, Scotland

I have had a dream of Africa in my mind for 40 years. This dream came true on my honeymoon to Lewa.

All the colours, the smells, the magnificence of the animals in their natural surroundings, the sensation of a real, untainted existence, and the people.

A big thank you to the people at Ardvark and especially to the kindness of the friends we made in Lewa Wilderness Trails for fulfilling my lifelong dream!

Charlotte Kennedy, Seville,Spain

Our family's two weeks in Kenya and Rwanda were absolutely amazing!  Beautiful countires, beautiful people, beautiful culture.  And most importantly, we were well taken care of and very safe with our accommodations coordinated by Aardvark Safaris. We even joked on the plane flights home that we felt more safe there "in the bush" than in our hometown cities in the US.  Aardvark is definitely top-notch and I would recommend them to anyone and everyone.  My parents have now visited Africa four times through Aadvark - I think this is a true testament to how well they take care of their clients.

Aubrey Mercer, Portland, Oregon

We have been on two trips with Aardvark now - one to Rwanda (gorilla trekking), Tanzania and Zanzibar and one self drive to Namibia. Both trips were entremely well organised, drawing on local knowledge and Victoria and her colleagues spent time getting to know exactly what we wanted from our trip, and although not the cheapest holiday, they have been truly amazing experiences.

I'd challenge any Africa enthusiast not to find trekking the Virunga with mountain gorillas or ballooning over the Namib desert life enhancing experiences. We are currently thinking about where Aardvark can take us for our next African adventure.....

Alison Tattersall and Chris Fox, London

The trip planned for us by Aardvark Safaris was flawless, a word I rarely use.

All the accommodations were much more than merely comfortable; they were extraordinarily comfortable. The meals were unexpectedly superior, in some case worthy of note in Zagat.

Most important of all was the timing of everything, because I was constantly concerned about our schedule. For example, I remember being on the tarmac of one isolated airstrip waiting for a plane to pick us up at 1:20 PM. At about 1:12 PM we saw a small speck in the sky advancing toward us, soon becoming recognizable as an aircraft. At 1:16 PM it touched down; at 1:18 we along with our bags were loaded onto the plane; and promptly at 1:20 PM we in the air.

My wife and I do not have enough complimentary things to say about Aardvark Safaris.

Bob Herman, Beverly Hills, California

Although this was our third trip to Africa, this was our first experience working with Aardvark Safaris, in particular John Spence and Charlotte Opperman. We gave them an eclectic outline of our trip objectives, wanting to see aspects of Africa which we had missed on prior trips. Starting with the Schoeman’s Skeleton Coast Flying Safari in Namibia, multi-sport safari’s in Zambia and ending with gorilla trekking in Rwanda.

Each country, each camp, each safari was beautiful and the trip wildly exceeded our expectations. While our choices created a tough travel schedule, Aardvark had just the right mix of travel and down time. The camps were spectacular and the guides at each stop made the entire trip very memorable. I don’t want to give away too many secrets for those of you going to the Skeleton Coast..but flying with the Schoeman’s is a magical adventure. Camps in Zambia allowed for walking, canoeing, driving and fishing all in the beautiful environs of the Lower Zambezi River. And, after long years of wanting to see the gorillas, Aardvark knew of and placed us with the best guides and the spectacular new Sabinyo Silverback Lodge. There is nothing like returning to a wonderful late lunch and a warm fire in your cottage to top off a tough day of hiking on the volcano to see the gorillas. Thanks to John and Charlotte and the entire Aardvark team, the trip was a spectacular success…we are already dreaming of our next trip to Africa which will definitely be with Aardvark Safaris.

Ken and Jacki Widder, Rancho Santa Fe, California

When my wife first brought up the idea of taking our family to Africa in 2003 my primary concern was safety. I made a number of inquiries and found Aardvark Safaris. In our first conversation I was emphatic that I didn't want any problems or security issues. John Spence took my concerns seriously and we spent three of the greatest weeks as a family in Kenya.

My children were 22 and 17 and the experience truly changed, and enhanced them as people. They loved everything about the trip. We had no problems of any kind. Our drivers and planes were waiting for us in every stop on our journey. We had such a good time that we spent a month in 2006 in Kenya, Tanzania, and Zanzibar. The only mistake we made was not listening to all of Aardvark’s advice. We plan on returning for a third trip.

The McNamara family, San Diego, California

Having waited twenty five years to take what I had always considered a holiday of a lifetime, I chose the organization who would put this together for me very carefully. After reviewing personal references and visiting their website and then, much to my surprise and the final deciding factor, a visit to my home in the States by John Spence to meet with me and create a holiday tailored to my exact needs and specification, I chose Aardvark Safari's to make this dream come true.

Nearly a year has gone by since my trip, but there isn't a day that goes by that I don't consciously revisit the amazing country of Zambia and the four locations John chose to meet my demands. Having taken over four thousand photos, my ipod, iphone and computer play slideshows of sights, sounds and vistas that I could only dream about prior to this trip.

John's personal visit was invaluable, by the time he puts an itinerary together for you, he knows what you like. I don't think the time spent in Zambia could have been any better. During our two weeks, we saw not only the big five but every other species you can imagine. One thing I do want to point out is how safe it felt out there. At night you could hear elephants eating the leaves from trees just outside your tent, and sometimes the distant roar of a lion or other animal, but the camps are so secure and the staff so attentive that not once did we feel threatened by animals or fearful in any way in this distant land. The people were wonderful and friendly to a fault. I guess you can tell I enjoyed myself, so am more than happy to recommend John and his team. If they can arrange a trip for you that is as good as mine, you'll be writing the next review.

Philip Fraser Andrews, Los Angeles, California 

We had a wonderful time! We traveled off the beaten path in search of the migration and a crossing (crocs tearing apart wildebeest!), found cubs and kills and all that good stuff, searched and found early man tools, drove through burning fields (the boys loved that!), played soccer at a Masai village and then purchased one of their goats for dinner!. Our guide Ninian was just sensational with the boys and it made a big difference. We all loved Sayari Mara. Nice tents without being over the top, good food and casual friendly staff. A vast area to discover from there; no feeling of going on the same roads on each drive.

The mobile camp was also nice (charming people) and nice to be alone, but pretty bare bones. I was ready for something more deluxe and Beho Beho certainly fits that bill! Breezes in Zanzibar was an excellent call. Just right for the kids with lots of freedom and activities. Scuba, windsurfing etc. Nice spa for Linda and me! We loved ending there.

So all in all, a great trip had by all and thank you very much for spending the time you did to organize it for us.

Wish I was there right now!

Sandra Dritley, California

We all want to thank you for putting together such an outstanding safari for us. There were several times where we said, "John really knew what he was doing." The camps, the people, and the wildlife were brilliant and importantly, were done in the proper order. The subtlety of knowing the camps well and understanding what we wanted made for a comfortable and interesting holiday. It was the vacation of a lifetime... until we go again. Thanks again,

Steve Lahre and family, San Diego, California

Kenya was just sensational and everything worked perfectly. We saw most of what I wanted although the migration seemed to take place very early but that is fine, animals have a mind of their own. The contrast between Sabuk & Saruni in terms of location, wildlife etc. was great. We are looking at getting back next year and trying Tanzania or Botswana maybe starting in the Mara again.

Englehardt family, Singapore

I have travelled with Aardvark several times and without exception found their advice unbiased and helpful. Unlike some operators they are not frightened of advising against lodges which they feel would not suit me – an invaluable asset when travelling as a lone female in Africa and one that much prefers small bush camps and feels uncomfortable with luxury at the expense of wildlife. Aardvark found me my own heaven on earth – Mwagusi in Ruaha with a close second being Old Mondoro in the Lower Zambezi. Their arrangements have always worked smoothly leaving me with no worries and more time to gaze with wonder at the unfolding panorama that is the African bush.

Mary Guy, Lincolnshire, England

Thank you so much for organising such an honeymoon.  Every detail was well thought out and the properties you chose were of very high quality.  This was a trip we will never forget.

Brad and Adriana Markel, Calgary, Canada

I've been meaning to contact you since getting back...Namibia was FANTASTIC! We all agreed it was one of our best family holidays. Thank you for organising such a wonderful trip. Accommodation and game viewing exceeded all expectations. Okonjima was brilliant and Etosha just incredible. At one waterhole (Kalkheuwel) we saw loads of animals including 56 elephants. To see them appear through the bush single file is not a sight we will easily forget.

We really couldn't have been happier with everything you arranged. it all went like clockwork.

The Capes family, Hampshire, England

Thank you again for such a wonderful trip - we will highly recommend Aardvark and Kasaka to anyone who is interested, and especially if they have concerns about taking kids on safari.

Our two children had the experience of their lives and really thrived during their stay - if anyone says that children are not able to go on safari we would love to tell them about how well it went for us.

The Griffin family, London, England

Our first trip to Africa was in 2004 to Cape Town, the wine districts and Botswana. Further adventures followed to Namibia, Kenya, Zambia and recently another to South Africa. Everything happens with an Aardvark trip. On one occasion our flight was so badly delayed at Heathrow that we would obviously miss our connection at Johannesburg. Even at 10pm the Aardvark machinery clicked into place and by the time we eventually arrived in Windhoek, the private charter had been re-arranged. The camps are first class, the arrangements work and other people we have met always seem to be as happy as we are with the Aardvark Team. We can thoroughly recommend Aardvark Safaris - our one remaining challenge is to actually see an Aardvark!

Martin and Valerie Slade, Sevenoaks, England

San Camp is a great little camp - the meerkats on our heads, walking with the Bushmen and quad biking into the salt pans was absolutely fantastic.  Our game drives and trip out on the water in a dug out canoe at Pom Pom were wonderful. At Savuti we spent hours with a pride of lion and their kill and tracked leopard and cheetah to mention just a little!

Thorntree River Lodge was different again. We enjoyed a helicopter trip over the Victoria falls, Hamish the hippo who grazed the lawns at night, a trip to a local village and the elephant ride! 

All in all, the trip was fantastic. We enjoyed every minute and have already recommended your company to all who have asked about our holiday of a lifetime! Thank you so much Jo and Aardvark.

Kathleen Huey, Saffron Walden, England

The depth of knowledge and attention to detail Aardvark provides is outstanding, no hard sell just un-biased genuine advice. I would not use anybody else.

Philip Ellick, London, England

We have travelled with Aardvark twice and on both occasions they have surpassed our expectations - not only do they send you to places you were unaware of but they have been there themselves and know what you can expect. It's not just about the places, but the camps and guides they select show you the real Africa - the spirit and welcome of the continent.

As an example, I will never forget playing 'hunt Henry', when one of our guides pretended to steal our goats and then with the help of the other guides, my boys and myself tracked Henry and captured him with our spears! Great fun and a good use of the bushcraft skills we had been shown.

Mike Armstrong, Leeds, England

I just wanted to drop you a line to say thank you for our wonderful honeymoon. We left Vuyatela on Tuesday after the most incredible week. We have wanted to go on a safari holiday for a number of years and our honeymoon gave us the perfect opportunity. Vuyatela exceeded our expectations on every level. The people are so genuine and kind, we felt at home immediately. The scenery and animals were just amazing – lions attacking buffalo on our first drive, the beautiful one-eyed leopard with her kill, and a herd of elephants sauntering past as we lay on our deck. Our surprise private dinner and petal-filled bath was such a lovely touch and made us fall in love with Vuyatela even more.

Thank you all so much for a truly exceptional honeymoon, and we really hope to come and visit again.

Lindsay & Simon Hunter, London, England

We are just back from a wonderful trip to Zambia and Malawi and I wanted to put on record our thanks for organizing the trip for us.  As you will remember, when I first contacted you we had decided we wanted to go to Africa and go on safari but had no idea where to start – not even which countries would be best for us.  Your advice on what would best suit our requirements, including keeping our two teenage girls happy was invaluable. 

The Cowper family, Herts, England

I would like to say a big thank you to Aardvark, and Victoria in particular, for making our first trip to southern Africa such a great success. My 16 year old daughter and I wanted an individual safari experience, with less time in the car and more time walking and canoeing through the wilderness. From the first phone call to receiving the travel documents our personal objectives took centre stage. Zambia met all our expectations and more, we not only saw a wide range of animals, including lions and leopards, but we saw them on foot and from canoes, which was what we had set out to do. The lodges, which Aardvak had chosen for us, were small and individual; they blended beautifully into the African bush and we felt perfectly safe. We will be back for more!

Ernst Schlogelhofer, London, England

I emailed Aardvark initially with a rough idea of what I wanted to do for my holiday. The help I had in the following couple of weeks was superb, with honest advice about the different options. The beauty for me was that I could come home and check my emails at night, think about what was on offer and reply with my thoughts - and Alice would work on that the next day. It worked so well for me, plus small things like the suggested packing list etc. made it much easier as it was my first time doing this sort of holiday.

Claudia Nisbett, Berkshire, England

I know Vicky found you very easy to work with and that compared to other companies you seemed to quickly understand our interests and needs and were able to design a honeymoon which fitted just right.

Andy & Vicky McCracken , London, England

All in all a great holiday and quite a shock to get home to cold and Pennine snow.  Thanks for all your superb organisation, as usual!

Peter and Cathy Smith, Cumbria, England

I knew nothing about Africa and so the thing that I appreciated the most about Aardvark was their willingness to spend time discussing what I liked and did not like. Also, I kept changing my mind and they accommodated all my changes with equanimity.

It is because of this approach that we had, in the words of my daughter, “the best holiday ever”. And that is from a 14 year old on a two week holiday with just her parents, and no access to the internet, to mobile phones, or to hair straighteners. Mind you, we didn’t tell her about the lack of electricity until we were packing!

Maria Gee, Berkshire, England

Our holidays are always organised at the very last minute and Aardvark rose to the challenge to arrange the holiday of a lifetime with only ten days notice.  The choice and variety of places was perfect for our needs, plenty of action, so much to see, new experiences and memories which will never be forgotten.

Thank you all so much for giving us all such a wonderful time together as a family and so many happy memories and pictures of our once in a lifetime holiday.

Sarah and Stephen Vantreen, Devon, England

The team at Aardvark were wonderful in planning and arranging our trip to Tanzania, nothing was too much trouble or too difficult to do. They directed us towards camps that were perfect for what we were looking for - sumptuous luxury (me), intrepid adventure (the rest of the family). But even the intrepid adventure was luxurious – delicious food and, amazingly, hot showers in a camp with no running water.  At the luxury end there was wonderful adventure and incredible animals.

The Whalley family, Roxburghshire, Scotland

Finally, thank you so much to you and Gale for your patience in changing the trip so many times and even having to deal with us missing our flight.  I have been regaling my friends and colleagues with the details and have been delighted to recommend you.

The Youngs, Glasgow, Scotland

All in all my dreams and expectations were not only fulfilled but surpassed. Taking the children was no problem at all, they had a great time, which they still talk about, and of course we can’t wait to go back.

Geoff Hall, Shropshire, England