Feedback we loved
Family adventure to Zanzibar and Tanzania
We are delighted with our trip. The variety of activities made this trip very special. Kitesurfing in Zanzibar, climbing Mt Meru, golf in Arusha, trekking in the great rift valley and safari in the Serengeti – that’s going to be hard to beat. Thank you for all your recommendations and support throughout....
Read More
We are delighted with our trip. The variety of activities made this trip very special. Kitesurfing in Zanzibar, climbing Mt Meru, golf in Arusha, trekking in the great rift valley and safari in the Serengeti – that’s going to be hard to beat. Thank you for all your recommendations and support throughout.
Nomad seemed very competent. And Ake is clearly top of his game. He was brilliant, hard working and hugely knowledgeable. We are thrilled with our adventure.
Close
Family adventure to Zanzibar and Tanzania |
Wedding anniversary safari to Zambia
Our 30th Wedding anniversary trip to Zambia was the trip of a lifetime, and we could not be happier with the planning that Lucinda, with Aardvark Safaris did for us. She truly listened to what we thought we wanted to do, and within our budget, she turned our dreams into reality....
Read More
Our 30th Wedding anniversary trip to Zambia was the trip of a lifetime, and we could not be happier with the planning that Lucinda, with Aardvark Safaris did for us. She truly listened to what we thought we wanted to do, and within our budget, she turned our dreams into reality. She interpreted our wish list incredibly well and was able to see, through her own personal experience in Zambia, where we needed to go, and what we needed to do to fulfil our dreams.
The timing of the different safari locations was brilliant. She slowly eased us into the experience of bush camps, and we cannot say enough about all our experiences. Up close encounters with so many animals, birds, and fish. All our amazing pictures were taken just with our cell phones.
We experienced the bush by jeep, on foot, by canoe, and by boat. We even got to go fishing. Many of the places we stayed at did something special for our anniversary, and the Zambian people were so very grateful to us for being willing to travel and help their economy. It is actually a fabulous time to do this right now, because there are no crowds and you will be treated like royalty.
Special shout out to the gang at Tusk and Mane Bushcamp for going above and beyond all the time.
Close
Wedding anniversary safari to Zambia |
Self-drive photographic trip to South Africa
We had a superb trip full of wonderful memories, fun adventures, and outstanding photography moments. Thank you very much for making all the arrangements and for putting together a very functional and thoughtful itinerary....
Read More
We had a superb trip full of wonderful memories, fun adventures, and outstanding photography moments. Thank you very much for making all the arrangements and for putting together a very functional and thoughtful itinerary. In many ways, Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park has exceeded our expectations, and we were very lucky with animal sightings. All logistics went without a hitch, and even the car (we never got a 4×4, just AWD) did not cause significant hardships. We also appreciated tender loving care provided by Judy from the local office.
Finally, thank you very much for arranging the late check out from the City Lodge. Really appreciated.
Aardvark Safaris once again proved to be an excellent choice for organizing travel to Africa. We would be glad to catch up next week, when we are back and start planning a new adventure. Close
Aardvark Safaris once again proved to be an excellent choice for organizing travel to Africa. We would be glad to catch up next week, when we are back and start planning a new adventure. Close
Self-drive photographic trip to South Africa |
Solo traveller to Tanzania and Zanzibar
Nomad Safaris were great, they really took good care to make guests feel safe and I can wholeheartedly recommend them. All in all, a great experience. Thanks again for putting this all together and for the flexibility....
Read More
Had a fantastic time on safari – it was definitely the right decision to go. In some of the lodges I was the only guest, so having Tarangire or the Serengeti to yourself was a once in a lifetime opportunity.
Nomad Safaris were great, they really took good care to make guests feel safe and I can wholeheartedly recommend them. All in all, a great experience. Thanks again for putting this all together and for the flexibility. Close
Nomad Safaris were great, they really took good care to make guests feel safe and I can wholeheartedly recommend them. All in all, a great experience. Thanks again for putting this all together and for the flexibility. Close
Solo traveller to Tanzania and Zanzibar |
Mother and daughter to Zimbabwe and Botswana
This trip to Zimbabwe and Botswana has been one of the most amazing experiences of my life. Not only due to the top quality of the sightings but also thanks to how safe we felt, which was obviously very important for us during this uncertain period....
Read More
This trip to Zimbabwe and Botswana has been one of the most amazing experiences of my life. Not only due to the top quality of the sightings but also thanks to how safe we felt, which was obviously very important for us during this uncertain period.
One key advantage of doing safari now is that you witness wildlife at its finest, very relaxed and playful – mainly due to the few cars driving around. For anyone wondering whether it’s safe or worth going on safari now; from my point of view if you have the chance, you should definitely go for it!
Close
Mother and daughter to Zimbabwe and Botswana |
Kenya Honeymoon
We had an absolutely wonderful time. Thank you so much for all your help and guidance throughout the process. We’re very sorry for the stressful moments and sudden change of plans but at least it enabled us to get out there which is the main thing!...
Read More
We had an absolutely wonderful time. Thank you so much for all your help and guidance throughout the process. We’re very sorry for the stressful moments and sudden change of plans but at least it enabled us to get out there which is the main thing! You guys were brilliant, so thank you for making it all happen.
Close
Kenya Honeymoon |
Couple travelling to Rwanda and Tanzania
We are just returning from our safari to Rwanda and Tanzania and want to thank you for planning and coordinating our trip. Everything went smoothly, which is saying a lot in these times of traveling in the Covid era. Getting tested before flights, gorilla tracking and entering different countries is somewhat inconvenient, but totally worth it. I am very glad we did not put it off for another year....
Read More
We are just returning from our safari to Rwanda and Tanzania and want to thank you for planning and coordinating our trip. Everything went smoothly, which is saying a lot in these times of traveling in the Covid era. Getting tested before flights, gorilla tracking and entering different countries is somewhat inconvenient, but totally worth it. I am very glad we did not put it off for another year.
Both of our gorilla tracks were amazing. My wife’s response afterwards was, “I didn’t know it was going to be so interactive.” We were so close to the gorillas at times we felt we were part of the troop.
The Tanzania part of the trip was just as amazing. We saw two major wildebeest river crossings, leopards, lions, and a full cheetah hunt from beginning to end. The beauty of the Serengeti can only be appreciated by being there. The number of animals – wildebeest, impala, zebra, gazelle, topi, hartebeest, lions, hippos, elephant, lovebirds…is mind boggling and nothing can prepare you for the life-changing beauty of this eco-system.
Our lodges were fantastic, the level of service is world-class, and our guides were top-notch. Logistically everything worked smoothly; getting us from A to B, our scheduled Covid tests and everything in between. That was due to your extreme attention to detail which is required for such a trip. This was my 15th trip to Africa and certainly one of the best. Thank you!
Close
Couple travelling to Rwanda and Tanzania |
Mother and son getaway to Kenya
We have had an absolutely wonderful time. Thank you for organising it. After the surprisingly stressful time of planning such a last-minute safari (jabs/insurance/Covid testing), it was seamless. Certainly, all your help in the run up made it as easy as it could be in the circumstances and was much appreciated....
Read More
We have had an absolutely wonderful time. Thank you for organising it. After the surprisingly stressful time of planning such a last-minute safari (jabs/insurance/Covid testing), it was seamless. Certainly, all your help in the run up made it as easy as it could be in the circumstances and was much appreciated. And thank you, particularly, for your advice in picking Offbeat Safaris.
As we hadn’t been on safari before, the whole experience was gripping from the moment we set off from Nairobi until we left. It was completely immersive and certainly 100% effective at taking my mind off work. I doubt we will truly be able to gauge just how lucky we were to experience it without any other cars in sight. Certainly not unless we go again and see it as “normal”.
David says hello. I am sure you experienced the same, but we certainly thought he was fantastic: not just a fountain of knowledge with exceptional eyesight as one might expect. He was fun, thoughtful, hardworking, and clearly very intelligent and aware. I have no doubt that the exceptional number of animals we saw was thanks to his skills.
Similarly, Jennifer, Joffrey, and Wilson were all lovely and ensured we felt completely at home and in a very familial atmosphere. This was just what we needed and particularly thoughtful as we were the only guests. You may be aware that on our last day the team organised a candle / fire lit dinner under the stars in the bush for Mum’s birthday and gave her a Masai blanket before we headed out for a night drive. It was a complete surprise and I know Mum absolutely loved it. Another great memory will be running with David through the savannah. I should have brought my trainers but even then, nothing would have made up the speed! What a lovely way to stretch the legs before a long flight. Thank you again for organising what was a very special holiday. Now the real issue: self-isolation is giving me a lot of time to think about how I can possibly make it back there again! Close
Similarly, Jennifer, Joffrey, and Wilson were all lovely and ensured we felt completely at home and in a very familial atmosphere. This was just what we needed and particularly thoughtful as we were the only guests. You may be aware that on our last day the team organised a candle / fire lit dinner under the stars in the bush for Mum’s birthday and gave her a Masai blanket before we headed out for a night drive. It was a complete surprise and I know Mum absolutely loved it. Another great memory will be running with David through the savannah. I should have brought my trainers but even then, nothing would have made up the speed! What a lovely way to stretch the legs before a long flight. Thank you again for organising what was a very special holiday. Now the real issue: self-isolation is giving me a lot of time to think about how I can possibly make it back there again! Close
Mother and son getaway to Kenya |
Gorilla tracking in Uganda
I am including Lucinda Rome at Aardvark Safaris in this email. She is the only person I would trust to plan my next trip to Africa. You will find her kind, generous, knowledgeable and easy to work with (she is your guide to an enchanting, surreal, and unforgettable experience). To make eye contact 20 feet from a 400 hundred pound mountain gorilla is a sublime moment that will change you forever....
Read More
I am including Lucinda Rome at Aardvark Safaris in this email. She is the only person I would trust to plan my next trip to Africa. You will find her kind, generous, knowledgeable and easy to work with (she is your guide to an enchanting, surreal, and unforgettable experience). To make eye contact 20 feet from a 400 hundred pound mountain gorilla is a sublime moment that will change you forever.As I said on the phone, traveling to Africa is different from traveling to many other parts of the world. Without Lucinda I shudder to contemplate the disaster the trip would have been. Furthermore, there is no fee from her agency. Aardvark is paid a booking fee by the safari company and lodge. You get white-glove, 5 star, concierge service and it costs nothing.
Lucinda, Thank you for an excellent vacation. I doubt the invasion of Normandy was as well planned as your itinerary. The entire trip not only met my expectations, it exceeded them in every way. It is easy to see how people fall in love with Africa. I am indebted to you and will not go to Africa again without your assistance.
Close
Gorilla tracking in Uganda |
Group of friends to Botswana, Zambia, Zimbabwe and South Africa
How wonderful to arrive home and find a welcome home message from you. You are absolutely correct. The trip was beyond epic. The boys got well over 100 bird species in Botswana alone. By the end of the adventure they had 200!...
Read More
How wonderful to arrive home and find a welcome home message from you. You are absolutely correct. The trip was beyond epic. The boys got well over 100 bird species in Botswana alone. By the end of the adventure they had 200! Us girls had 31 mammal species. But the experience goes way beyond that. The only thing we did not get was a leopard. I’ve been to Africa twice now with no leopard, you know what that means, third time is a charm but we’ll talk about that later.
We cannot thank you enough for making this unforgettable trip of a lifetime happen. I truly feel Africa is a spiritual soul altering experience. You helped make that happen. Every detail was perfect from A-to-Z, head to toe.
Close
Group of friends to Botswana, Zambia, Zimbabwe and South Africa | Jen and Roy
Family Trip to Kenya and Zanzibar
The walking safari was absolutely the highlight just because we’d never done anything like it before and it is the most amazing experience to be walking through such complete wilderness for five days. We didn’t see another tourist, a vehicle or even a vapour trail in the sky....
Read More
The walking safari was absolutely the highlight just because we’d never done anything like it before and it is the most amazing experience to be walking through such complete wilderness for five days. We didn’t see another tourist, a vehicle or even a vapour trail in the sky.
Close
Family Trip to Kenya and Zanzibar | Justin, Victoria and Family
A South Africa Odyssey
Best trip we have ever had – a fabulous safari experience. A mix of lodges is definitely worthwhile, and even the distances are not a problem as the flights and car transfers were all very straightforward. Highlights are too many to mention....
Read More
Best holiday we have ever had – a fabulous safari experience. A mix of lodges is definitely worthwhile, and even the distances are not a problem as the flights and car transfers were all very straightforward. Highlights are too many to mention…. but include bush walking with giraffes; cocktails in the dried river bed as the sun went down; watching adult male lions stalking buffalo; the amazing skills of the trackers and huge knowledge of the rangers; learning to read the signs from the dung!; tea and cake by the lawn before an afternoon game drive; a welcome hot water bottle in the truck for the morning drive; the light, the skies and the views of southern Africa. Make sure you donate or buy souvenirs to support the anti-poaching charities and to protect the rhino.
Close
Nicholas and Helen South Africa Holiday | Helen and Nick
Safari and Beach Holiday
We had a fabulous honeymoon and can’t believe how cold it feels now we are back home – landing felt like a real culture shock having been on the beach less than 24 hours before that....
Read More
We had a fabulous honeymoon and can’t believe how cold it feels now we are back home – landing felt like a real culture shock having been on the beach less than 24 hours before that.
All the safari camps and hotels were superb and you were right to steer us towards them from our initial thoughts. We were treated like royalty and I don’t think it was just because we were on honeymoon. Without exception the friendliness of the staff, the skill of the safari guides, and the attention to detail throughout was something we’ve never experienced before. If we have one complaint it’s that two weeks has flown by and we didn’t want to leave any of the places we stayed!
Africa has definitely done its magic on both of us and we can’t believe we’ve never been before. We will definitely be back to book another safari as soon as we can.
Close
We were treated like royalty | Peter and Jayne
A canoe safari in Southern Africa
What a fantastic trip. This really is an excellent way to see wildlife very close to you. From the first time you put your canoe in the water you start seeing all the African wildlife you’ve dreamt of as you slowly cruise past them on the water....
Read More
What a fantastic trip. This really is an excellent way to see wildlife very close to you. From the first time you put your canoe in the water you start seeing all the African wildlife you’ve dreamt of as you slowly cruise past them on the water. The paddling is much easier than I imagined and the canoes are really very stable. It turned out to be one of the best things I’ve ever done.
Close
What a fantastic trip | Pat Walker
Kilimanjaro Climb
Would recommend this trip to anybody. Kilimanjaro is undoubtedly hard work but the views and sense of accomplishment make it so worthwhile! The quality of the guide company made it as enjoyable and comfortable as it could have been....
Read More
Would recommend this trip to anybody. Kilimanjaro is undoubtedly hard work but the views and sense of accomplishment make it so worthwhile! The quality of the guide company made it as enjoyable and comfortable as it could have been. Seeing sunrise at the summit made the tough summit day climb worth every bit of effort!
Zanzibar was a great place for some rest and relaxation after the hard work of 8 days climb. The Baraza resort was fantastic and perfect for some R&R. Close
Zanzibar was a great place for some rest and relaxation after the hard work of 8 days climb. The Baraza resort was fantastic and perfect for some R&R. Close
Forbes and Nicola Kilimanjaro Climb | Forbes and Nicola
Riding safari in Namibia
Big skies, long gallops, picturesque landscapes (no photo album of mine been such a big hit with people), chance to develop a bond with the horses who are the real stars of the trip....
Read More
Big skies, long gallops, picturesque landscapes (no photo album of mine been such a big hit with people), chance to develop a bond with the horses who are the real stars of the trip.
Close
Shubhabrata Namibian riding safari | Shubhabrata
Alice and John's South Africa trip
What a wonderful time we had!! Honestly the most fantastic holiday we have both ever had. Kirkman’s Kamp, South Africa was absolutely heavenly. The staff were wonderful, the food was delicious, we were exceptionally comfortable and we felt thoroughly spoilt....
Read More
What a wonderful time we had!! Honestly the most fantastic holiday we have both ever had. Kirkman’s Kamp, South Africa was absolutely heavenly. The staff were wonderful, the food was delicious, we were exceptionally comfortable and we felt thoroughly spoilt. But most of all the wildlife was AMAZING! we saw absolutely everything we could have hoped for. They looked after us incredibly well and we couldn’t have enjoyed it more. We only wish we had stayed there for longer. We certainly were not boring of the drives and although perhaps we were really lucky with where we were and the time of year, etc, but if you have a couple who want to go on safari and love nature then they should stay for longer!
Close
Alice and John’s South Africa trip | Alice and John
Andy and Nicola's 10 year anniversary Botswana riding safari
We had the most amazing trip! The flights and connections all worked perfectly, the camp was brilliant (Katie and the team at Macatoo are fantastic, we’d recommend African Horseback Safaris to anyone!), the wildlife & countryside stunning and horses were perfect for Nicky and me....
Read More
We had the most amazing trip! The flights and connections all worked perfectly, the camp was brilliant (Katie and the team at Macatoo are fantastic, we’d recommend African Horseback Safaris to anyone!), the wildlife & countryside stunning and horses were perfect for Nicky and me. I can’t begin to describe all the great experiences we had but cantering with a herd of zebra was probably top of a very long list.
Close
Andy and Nicola’s 10 year anniversary Botswana riding safari | Andy and Nicola
Brian and Patricia's Zambia Trip
If you like a remote location well away from any other camps, Mwaleshi is your place. From the time you arrive at their airstrip, you are the only people for miles. The silence (apart from lions roaring at night and elephants ambling through the trees nearby) is magic....
Read More
If you like a remote location well away from any other camps, Mwaleshi is your place. From the time you arrive at their airstrip, you are the only people for miles. The silence (apart from lions roaring at night and elephants ambling through the trees nearby) is magic. The wildlife is not as prolific as in South Luangwa, but we saw lions, elephants, wild dogs, hippos, crocodiles, buffalo, snakes, wildebeest, mongeese, civet cats, porcupines, amazing birdlife and of course numerous impala and puku – all, of course, on foot, which is a quite different experience from the back of a Land Rover.
Close
Brian and Patricia’s Zambia Trip | Brian and Patricia
Chubb family holiday to South Africa, Botswana and Zambia
Highly recommended. A real passion to make this an amazing experience for us as a family. Nothing was too much trouble and Annelies and Scott were a pleasure to be with and very knowledgeable. They had thought of everything....
Read More
Highly recommended. A real passion to make this an amazing experience for us as a family. Nothing was too much trouble and Annelies and Scott were a pleasure to be with and very knowledgeable. They had thought of everything. Definitely got up very close to lots of game!!! Some very exciting memories.
Close
Chubb family holiday to South Africa, Botswana and Zambia | Chubb family
The Funk Family Mauritius Holiday
The Funk Family Mauritius Holiday | Funk family
Richard and Stuart's friends riding safari to Botswana
It is very rare that you find the perfect holiday, but this was it. The Okavango Delta was beautifully unspoiled and uncrowded; everyone at Okavango Horse Safaris was really friendly and could not have done more to make us welcome; and the game viewing was wonderful...
Read More
It is very rare that you find the perfect holiday, but this was it. The Okavango Delta was beautifully unspoiled and uncrowded; everyone at Okavango Horse Safaris was really friendly and could not have done more to make us welcome; and the game viewing was wonderful – so much better on horseback, where you can get really close and be at one with the natural environment.
Close
Richard and Stuart’s riding safari to Botswana | Richard and Stuart
Donna and Mark's Botswana Holiday
As described above, all the game drives were great, the guides superb, the camps wonderful. Top experiences…… mokoro and speedboat fun at Tubu Tree, along with seeing the leopard cub feeding, hippos chasing us and seeing wild dogs at Selinda, and quadbiking and meerkats at San Camp....
Read More
As described above, all the game drives were great, the guides superb, the camps wonderful. Top experiences…… mokoro and speedboat fun at Tubu Tree, along with seeing the leopard cub feeding, hippos chasing us and seeing wild dogs at Selinda, and quadbiking and meerkats at San Camp. Meerkats take the top prize though.
Close
Donna and Mark’s Botswana Holiday | Donna and Mark
Simon and Kate's Zambia and Malawi Holiday
Simon and Kate’s Zambia and Malawi Holiday | Simon and Kate
Tim and Diana's Southern Africa safari
This was our first Riding Safari. The Camp Manager and her staff , and in particular our guide , were really marvellous. Nothing was too much trouble and we had a great six night stay. The horses are clearly well looked after and there is a large choice to suit pretty much everybody including novices like me....
Read More
This was our first Riding Safari. The Camp Manager and her staff , and in particular our guide , were really marvellous. Nothing was too much trouble and we had a great six night stay. The horses are clearly well looked after and there is a large choice to suit pretty much everybody including novices like me. Perhaps to ring the changes on the wine would be a good idea and to advertise the fact that sparkling wine is also available. The food was remarkable bearing in mind where we were located.
Close
Tim and Diana’s Southern Africa safari | Tim and Diana
Stephanie and Susan's South Africa Trip
Stephanie and Susan’s South Africa Trip | Susan and Stephanie
Thomas and Vicky's 5 Year Anniversary Back To Their Honeymoon Suite
You forgot to add our stay at Leopard Hills in Sabi Sands! This is a fabulous lodge and was the site of our wedding 5 years ago. We absolutely loved it here. The staff is so warm and welcoming you feel like part of their family. Again we stayed in our honeymoon suite (#8) which has a fabulous view of the watering hole below....
Read More
You forgot to add our stay at Leopard Hills in Sabi Sands! This is a fabulous lodge and was the sight of our wedding 5 years ago. We absolutely loved it here. The staff is so warm and welcoming you feel like part of their family. Again we stayed in our honeymoon suite (#8) which has a fabulous view of the watering hole below. The game drives were spectacular….we saw all of the Big 5 on our first game drive! We also were treated to viewing 3 small lion cubs….so cute!! The food was some of the best we encountered anywhere in South Africa.
I also want to comment on the excellent transportation service we received from Illious Travel Services. All of their drivers (except for one) were super. On time, very friendly and knowledgeable about the surrounding sights, lots of fun to talk to. We learned a lot about tribal life in the townships!
Our highlight was of course Leopard Hills….tough to top this as one of the best lodges in Sabi Sands and great game viewing! Our low was probably Madikwe Safari Lodge. Thanks to Aardvark we got moved to one of their “adults only” lodges as the main lodge was teeming with children (very young children). Our first Ranger was not very good….after going out on 3 game drives with him we complained to the camp manager and got reassigned to a different Ranger who was excellent. Turns out our new Ranger was the Head Ranger for the lodge. Close
I also want to comment on the excellent transportation service we received from Illious Travel Services. All of their drivers (except for one) were super. On time, very friendly and knowledgeable about the surrounding sights, lots of fun to talk to. We learned a lot about tribal life in the townships!
Our highlight was of course Leopard Hills….tough to top this as one of the best lodges in Sabi Sands and great game viewing! Our low was probably Madikwe Safari Lodge. Thanks to Aardvark we got moved to one of their “adults only” lodges as the main lodge was teeming with children (very young children). Our first Ranger was not very good….after going out on 3 game drives with him we complained to the camp manager and got reassigned to a different Ranger who was excellent. Turns out our new Ranger was the Head Ranger for the lodge. Close
Thomas and Vicky’s South Africa Holiday | Thomas and Vicky
Anselm and Antonia's Zambia and Malawi Trip
Anselm and Antonia’s Zambia and Malawi Trip | Anselm and Antonia
Dianne and Don's South Africa Trip
Since it was our first time in South Africa, we were grateful that we booked it with Aardvark Safaris. Everything was taken care of as far a greetings at the airports, in-country flights, visa requirements, inoculation recommendations, what to bring, what’s included, gratuity recommendations, restaurant recommendations, safaris and guides and booking all of our amazing lodges....
Read More
Since it was our first time in South Africa, we were grateful that we booked it with Aardvark Safaris. Everything was taken care of as far a greetings at the airports, in-country flights, visa requirements, inoculation recommendations, what to bring, what’s included, gratuity recommendations, restaurant recommendations, safaris and guides and booking all of our amazing lodges. We felt very comfortable in all of their recommendations. Aardvark and Victoria truly had a concern for our questions and what we wanted to see and do on our trip. We will never forget our African adventure and we definitely want to return one day.
Close
Dianne and Don’s South Africa Trip | Dianne & Don
Charles & Angus's Kenya Safari
Mountain was good – on the upper slopes it is a truly interesting landscape whereas the first couple of days are a bit prosaic. With the benefit of hindsight I would have amalgamated days 2 and 3 and done the mountain in 4 days not 5. Our guide and porter team were all very friendly and competent....
Read More
Mountain was good – on the upper slopes it is a truly interesting landscape whereas the first couple of days are a bit prosaic. With the benefit of hindsight I would have amalgamated days 2 and 3 and done the mountain in 4 days not 5. Our guide and porter team were all very friendly and competent. Given the logistical difficulties the food was good however people need to be warned it is necessarily plain fare (this is not a criticism just a reflection of reality). Likewise nights on the mountain under canvas are long cold and lonely (you have to retreat to your tent and sleeping bag in order to keep warm) so I recommend people take lots of books (on their Kindles). The packing list was good – with the cold you end up wearing every piece of clothing on offer ! I would suggest that you also recommend that folks take a couple of ‘buffs’ – useful both for keeping warm at night and for providing protection against the sun in the day.
Close
Charles & Angus’s Kenya Safari | Charles & Angus
Charles & Angus's Kenya Safari
Accommodation was very good – Colobus Cottages were a very suitable place for a first night – not too luxurious. A nice English welcome and excellent food. (But be warned the owner is putting it on the market imminently so standards may drop)....
Read More
Accommodation was very good – Colobus Cottages were a very suitable place for a first night – not too luxurious. A nice English welcome and excellent food. (But be warned the owner is putting it on the market imminently so standards may drop). Likewise The Fairmount was an excellent place for the end of the trek wind down – my only comment here would be that you book for a late check out on the last day (because we didn’t leave for Nairobi airport till 4.00). Also, for the same reason, book people in for an extra lunch on the last day as part of the package.
Close
Charles and Angus’s Kenya Safari | Charles & Angus
Murray and Sally's Tanzania Trip
The Selous park was far and away our favourite on this trip. Nomad look like a really good outfit and strongly recommend that we use Aardvark Safaris if we are going to book one of their camps in future….which I am sure we will. All aspects of our Selous holiday ran to plan, thank you....
Read More
The Selous park was far and away our favourite on this trip. Nomad look like a really good outfit and strongly recommend that we use Aardvark Safaris if we are going to book one of their camps in future….which I am sure we will. All aspects of our Selous holiday ran to plan, thank you.
Close
Murray and Sally’s Tanzania Trip | Murray and Sally
The Kaufmann Family Tanzania Holiday
WOW – what a “blow me away” trip!!! AardvarkSafaris did a beautiful job structuring this trip and staging it in such a way that it wasn’t overwhelming. This was a graduation present for my son and I had to drag him out of Africa kicking a screaming – he didn’t want to leave!...
Read More
WOW – what a “blow me away” trip!!! Aardvark Safaris did a beautiful job structuring this trip and staging it in such a way that it wasn’t overwhelming. This was a graduation present for my son and I had to drag him out of Africa kicking a screaming – he didn’t want to leave! Nice job Aardvark Safaris!!!
Close
The Kaufmann Family Tanzania Holiday | The Kaufmann Family
Forbes and Nicola's safari to Kenya, Tanzania and Zanzibar
Amazing experience. The guides were very experienced, providing good advice and ensured we made it to the top! The camp crew were amazing, ensuring we got good spots in each camp, providing amazing food (you wouldn’t believe how much food they can provide up a mountain) and the quality of the camp equipment was excellent....
Read More
Amazing experience. The guides were very experienced, providing good advice and ensured we made it to the top! The camp crew were amazing, ensuring we got good spots in each camp, providing amazing food (you wouldn’t believe how much food they can provide up a mountain) and the quality of the camp equipment was excellent. The Lemosho route was beautiful, provided a great chance to acclimatise, and at the beginning was much quieter than other routes. Would thoroughly recommend!
Close
Forbes and Nicola’s safari to Kenya, Tanzania and Zanzibar | Forbes and Nicola
Richard and Susan's Kenya Vacation
So much! We loved the private aspect to this vacation and left feeling like we had made wonderful connections on so many levels. We did not feel like tourists…much more like family in the Kenyan community, being able to share so much more with people who lived there...
Read More
So much! We loved the private aspect to this vacation and left feeling like we had made wonderful connections on so many levels. We did not feel like tourists…much more like family in the Kenyan community, being able to share so much more with people who lived there…their histories, their communities from both the Masai and colonial communities. A rare opportunity.
Close
Richard and Susan’s Kenya Vacation | Richard and Susan
Richard and Susan's riding safari to Kenya
Horses that knew their jobs, easy relaxing riding which we wanted, beautiful scenery. This trip was sort of an “experiment” trip for Borana and I think they will start to offer it in the future....
Read More
Horses that knew their jobs, easy relaxing riding which we wanted, beautiful scenery. This trip was sort of an “experiment” trip for Borana and I think they will start to offer it in the future.
We rode through a beautiful forest into the fly camp the first night and were blown away by what was set up in the bush. Tassia lodge was one of the highlights and glad we had two nights there. Interesting raptor rescue center. We planned to go to a Masai village and asked “can we ride there?” and we did. Fabulous experience to learn about their culture and lives and be part of the beading project that Antonia Hall has started with the local women…we are continuing to talk about contacts in the US.
We were the only guests here which was wonderfully private. . We ate dinner up on the “roof” of the lodge the first night in a sort of Moroccan setting on low tables. It was a gorgeous night and the stars were wonderful.
The second night was set with a huge fire next to the pool. We would have liked to have had a private dinner here one night which they could have arranged…(told us afterwards..oh..we should have offered you a private dinner)….that would have been incredible!
Terrific view of elephants below the lodge which came up at night right by our room! My husband surprised us with his bow and arrow experience in the “Masai Olympics” set up for us after our ride into the village, complete with a full bar for “sundowners”.
The last day of riding we saw a group of about 30 giraffes gallop by followed by a large herd of zebras. Our guide said they rarely see that many giraffes together. Wow! Close
We rode through a beautiful forest into the fly camp the first night and were blown away by what was set up in the bush. Tassia lodge was one of the highlights and glad we had two nights there. Interesting raptor rescue center. We planned to go to a Masai village and asked “can we ride there?” and we did. Fabulous experience to learn about their culture and lives and be part of the beading project that Antonia Hall has started with the local women…we are continuing to talk about contacts in the US.
We were the only guests here which was wonderfully private. . We ate dinner up on the “roof” of the lodge the first night in a sort of Moroccan setting on low tables. It was a gorgeous night and the stars were wonderful.
The second night was set with a huge fire next to the pool. We would have liked to have had a private dinner here one night which they could have arranged…(told us afterwards..oh..we should have offered you a private dinner)….that would have been incredible!
Terrific view of elephants below the lodge which came up at night right by our room! My husband surprised us with his bow and arrow experience in the “Masai Olympics” set up for us after our ride into the village, complete with a full bar for “sundowners”.
The last day of riding we saw a group of about 30 giraffes gallop by followed by a large herd of zebras. Our guide said they rarely see that many giraffes together. Wow! Close
Richard and Susan’s riding safari to Kenya | Richard and Susan
Helmut and Patricia's Tanzania Holiday
The food was good everywhere. Didn’t quite understand why Chem Chem doesn’t serve pork or fish. As a result, there was a lot of chicken on the menu. Staff and service were always v.g. and very friendly everywhere-always a ready smile and nothing too much trouble....
Read More
The food was good everywhere. Didn’t quite understand why Chem Chem doesn’t serve pork or fish. As a result, there was a lot of chicken on the menu. Staff and service were always v.g. and very friendly everywhere-always a ready smile and nothing too much trouble. As a result of quite recent rain, grass was unfortunately very high which limited views of smaller animals but birds were plentiful. Had several bush breakfasts and sundowners, all very well organized. Camps pretty empty. Bookings down because of the Ebola scare and it is causing concern. Staff have been laid off, guides too. Very sad development.
Close
Helmut and Patricia’s Tanzania Holiday | Helmut and Patricia
Pauline and Charles' Botswana Vacation
Awesome. A truly a memorable experience. We have high regards for Botswana just like Mma Precious Ramotswe in Alexander McCall-Smith’s No. 1 Ladies’ Detective Agency! We don’t often go back to places but this may be one of them....
Read More
Awesome. A truly a memorable experience. We have high regards for Botswana just like Mma Precious Ramotswe in Alexander McCall-Smith’s No. 1 Ladies’ Detective Agency! We don’t often go back to places but this may be one of them.
Close
Pauline and Charles’ Botswana Vacation | Pauline & Charles
The Von Sponeck Family South Africa Trip
The Von Sponeck Family South Africa Trip | The von Sponeck family
Richard and Caroline's South Africa Safari
The Madikwe Reserve was established in the early 90’s with 10,000 animals relocated there, it’s not the biggest reserve and this is what makes it brilliant. Malaria free, the ability to travel around freely and not overcrowded like some with only 31 lodges spread around the reserve you often do a drive and barely see another truck....
Read More
The Madikwe Reserve was established in the early 90’s with 10, 000 animals relocated there, it’s not the biggest reserve and this is what makes it brilliant. Malaria free, the ability to travel around freely and not overcrowded like some with only 31 lodges spread around the reserve you often do a drive and barely see another truck. It is a well managed and safe reserve and amazing to see some endangered species. Daily game drives at 0530am and 430pm were a highlight as after all we were on a safari holiday! Daniel, our guide, at Jamala Madwike has a endearing enthusiasm for his job and we saw such a variety of game that it made the early mornings worth it!!!
Close
Richard and Caroline’s Holiday to South Africa | Richard and Caroline
Nicky and Peter's Holiday to Zambia and Botswana
We had a wonderful time! The highlights were the Linyanti Bush Camp – we loved our time there and didn’t want to leave; seeing so many elephants was amazing; tracking a leopard a special experience and the helicopter ride a real treat....
Read More
We had a wonderful time! The highlights were the Linyanti Bush Camp – we loved our time there and didn’t want to leave; seeing so many elephants was amazing; tracking a leopard a special experience and the helicopter ride a real treat.
Lowlights would be the enormous queue at Johannesburg airport on the way out – thank you to our fellow Brit who was ingenious enough to engineer a small group of us to queue jump so we made our connecting flight to Livingstone. Close
Lowlights would be the enormous queue at Johannesburg airport on the way out – thank you to our fellow Brit who was ingenious enough to engineer a small group of us to queue jump so we made our connecting flight to Livingstone. Close
Nicky and Peter’s Holiday to Zambia and Botswana | Nicky and Peter
The Butler's and Hankin's Kenya Holiday
One of our party was quite poorly on our trip, but everyone moved heaven and earth to ensure that he got his game drives in, and saw his favourite animals, elephants. We will always remember a wonderful sundowner arranged by Henry and Sissa at Mara Camp....
Read More
One of our party was quite poorly on our trip, but everyone moved heaven and earth to ensure that he got his game drives in, and saw his favourite animals, elephants. We will always remember a wonderful sundowner arranged by Henry and Sissa at Mara Camp. Sissa opening the bubbly with a traditional spear (they do not do that at our local bar!), a roaring fire, great “nibbles” and thunder and lightning reverberating around us as we sat under a lone tree in the middle of the huge open plain. They also arranged a special, last evening meal, right by our tent, for the 4 of us, and even came down with the vehicle to take us up to the camp fire for nightcaps with the other guests. On the wildlife front, the real highlights were a lovely sighting of a tiny leopard cub (our first leopard cub despite more than a dozen visits to Africa!) and a one hour standoff between 8 lionesses and 27 hyenas – what a commotion, and what sounds.
Close
The Butler’s and Hankin’s Kenya Holiday | Eric and Val
Graham and Gill's South Africa Holiday
Graham and Gill’s South Africa Holiday | Graham & Gillian
The Rose Family Zimbabwe Holiday
The Rose Family Zimbabwe Holiday | Maggie
MIke and Ann's Trip to Zambia, Malawi and Uganda
We always knew it would be a trip of a lifetime but it truly exceed our hopes, dreams and expectations. Again, Alice, Gale and team did a fantastic and thoughtful job for us. Each country was chosen for a reason and all those reasons were met....
Read More
We always knew it would be a trip of a lifetime but it truly exceed our hopes, dreams and expectations. Again, Alice, Gale and team did a fantastic and thoughtful job for us. Each country was chosen for a reason and all those reasons were met. We love Africa so much and are always thinking of our times there. Many many memories for a very long time.
Close
MIke and Ann’s Trip to Zambia, Malawi and Uganda | Mike & Ann
Ben and Mary's Tanzania Trip
There were some wonderful moments – 90 species of birds, ostriches with 12 baby ostriches, sundowners on dried out Lake Manyara, Goshawk catching a snake as we ate lunch, just missing a python in a burrow, Al fresco breakfast under a baobab. All fab....
Read More
There were some wonderful moments – 90 species of birds, ostriches with 12 baby ostriches, sundowners on dried out Lake Manyara, Goshawk catching a snake as we ate lunch, just missing a python in a burrow, Al fresco breakfast under a baobab. All fab.
Close
Ben and Mary’s Tanzania Trip | Ben & Mary
Neil, John and Alaina's Botswana Holiday
Every day was different my own personal highlights were the close encounters with wild dogs on two occasions, four close encounters with different leopard. Encounters with numerous lions and the unbelievable amount of elephant in the Chobe Park area....
Read More
Every day was different my own personal highlights were the close encounters with wild dogs on two occasions, four close encounters with different leopard. Encounters with numerous lions and the unbelievable amount of elephant in the Chobe Park area. The three different areas we travelled to supplied a fantastic viewing of African wild life.
The whole safari was excellent. Close
The whole safari was excellent. Close
Neil, John and Alaina’s Botswana Holiday | Neil
Phill and Jessica's South Africa Trip
Overall the trip was amazing, every element was meticulously planned by Lucinda and her colleagues. Including all transfers, dinner reservations and day trips in Cape Town. The trip to Cape Point, including lunch with Chef Bruce was a high spot – he did an amazing job of cooking lunch for his guests in his own home!...
Read More
Overall the trip was amazing, every element was meticulously planned by Lucinda and her colleagues. Including all transfers, dinner reservations and day trips in Cape Town. The trip to Cape Point, including lunch with Chef Bruce was a high spot – he did an amazing job of cooking lunch for his guests in his own home! The wine region was stupendous, and we managed to get back to Cape Town at the end of the day, without being too worse for wear!
Close
Phill and Jessica’s South Africa Trip | Phill & Jess
James Hong's African Highlights Fortnight Adventure
We spent two weeks in Tanzania, Zambia and Kenya with the arrangement from Aardvark Safaris. It’s a bit rush since I had a tight schedule. Aardvark did make a good itinerary for us to cover all the highlights for these three countries....
Read More
We spent two weeks in Tanzania, Zambia and Kenya with the arrangement from Aardvark Safaris. It’s a bit rush since I have a tight schedule. Aardvark did make a good itinerary for us to cover all the highlights for these three countries. The camp guides are awesome, with good eyesight, knowledge and using all six senses to find all the animals from bushes! Accommodation was much above my expectations.
We stayed at seven different camps, lodges and hotels in these three countries. I really recommend Royal Livingstone Hotel in Zambia, Gibb’s Farm in Tanzania, and Saruni in Kenya. All 5 stars with good food and beverages, best services and facilities you can expect in Africa!
If you don’t get used to camping, better let Aardvark know in advance. Otherwise, it’s hard to get into sleep for a metropolitan, like myself, in the windy, noisy, camp, or even take a hot water shower by bucket. Of course, no Wifi in camps. Fortunately, they do have lodge as an alternative, which have all the modern facilities. We didn’t witness the Wildebeest Migration due to the time of year. But I think it’s a blessing, since less tourists, less crowds, more attention from both animals and hospitality guys. This feeling of privileged safari is strong especially in the private conservancy in Kenya, Mara North. Last but least, I didn’t see a real aardvark in Africa. I guess this might be a strategy from Aardvark Safaris to have me for my second safaris very soon to see an elusive aardvark…
Close
James Hong’s African Adventure | James Hong
Lee's Mount Kilimanjaro Climb and Tanzania Safari
Lee’s Mount Kilimanjaro Climb and Tanzania Safari | Lee
Alison and Kevin's Safari to Botswana and Zambia
Aardvark organised our safari from start to finish excellently. Their planning advice and pre-trip information were comprehensive, all travel arrangements and transfers worked beautifully. We would highly recommend their services....
Read More
Aardvark organised our safari from start to finish excellently. Their planning advice and pre-trip information were comprehensive, all travel arrangements and transfers worked beautifully. We would highly recommend their services. In addition, both Letaka safaris and Waterberry Lodge exceeded our expectations, overall a fantastic holiday.
Close
Alison and Kevin’s Safari to Botswana and Zambia | Alison and Kevin
Frank and Debra's Zambia and Malawi Trip
Frank and Debra’s Zambia and Malawi Trip | Frank and Debra
Danielle and Evan's Wedding and Honeymoon in Zambia and Malawi
There couldn’t have been a better operator than Aardvark Safaris to simultaneously wedding plan and organize the most amazing safari in such short notice! Thank you! River Club was the BEST and most PERFECT place to have a wedding. Every place we went...
Read More
There couldn’t have been a better operator than Aardvark Safaris to simultaneously wedding plan and organize the most amazing safari in such short notice! Thank you! River Club was the BEST and most PERFECT place to have a wedding at… Every place we went to we would say- Aardvark knew and called it right- as we could not have imagined a wedding anywhere else! This was beyond well done, seemly executed and put forth with so much care and authenticity!
Close
Danielle and Evan’s Wedding and Honeymoon in Zambia and Malawi | Danielle and Evan
The Zander Family Vacation to Zimbabwe
River rafting and zip lining the Zambezi river was truly a trip highlight, but the people and visiting the school in Hwange Park was a life highlight for the kids and us!...
Read More
River rafting and zip lining the Zambezi river was truly a trip highlight, but the people and visiting the school in Hwange Park was a life highlight for the kids and us!
Close
The Zander Family Vacation to Zimbabwe | The Zander Family
Matita's Zambia Holiday
I stayed in Kafunta Lodge, South Luangwa Park, Zambia, because a friend had been there 2 or 3 years ago and thoroughly enjoyed it. I enjoyed it too. It’s in an attractive location overlooking a big plane with a lake....
Read More
I stayed in Kafunta Lodge, South Luangwa Park, Zambia, because a friend had been there 2 or 3 years ago and thoroughly enjoyed it. I enjoyed it too. It’s in an attractive location overlooking a big plane with a lake. I could have spent hours watching game drinking at the lake and at breakfast at 5.30 one morning we witnessed a poor baboon, who had wandered into the centre of the (now rather shallow and dried up lake as it’s the middle of the dry season) lake being caught by a croc and rolled over and over. It was fascinating and also sad at the same time and even the guides were excited having never seen anything quite like it at very close quarters.
The management and staff were very friendly and welcoming, the food good and plentiful and there was a nice pool which was just the thing after the morning game drive. I was put in a group of 6 and we were given the senior guide, who was terrific, and stayed together in our little group for the 2 game drives a day and for dinner, when our guide joined us too. There were 2 other groups as well and we did mingle at breakfast, lunch, tea and pre-dinner drinks.
Kafunta have another lodge, known as the Bush Camp, and most of their guests spend a couple of nights there and it seemed to be very popular. I went there too with the other 5 people in my group and our guide, and it’s about a 3 hour drive. I had booked to go to the Bush Camp, but others hadn’t and were able to arrange it on the spot at no extra charge. I imagine this depends on whether there is room available. At the Bush Camp you really experience the proper bush. The chalets are built round trees and accessed by wooden steps so that you feel you’re in a tree house almost. There is no electricity but there are big bucket showers which are filled with hot water after the morning and evening game drives and a jug of hot water to wash in is provided early every morning. There is even a proper flushing loo! Everything was very comfortable and the food delicious – all prepared in a proper bush kitchen complete with large catapult to keep baboons away. At the bush camp we walked instead of going out in the Toyota Landcruiser and were accompanied by our usual guide and an armed guide from the National Parks authority. It was an lovely interlude, but 2 nights there is just about the right amount of time. Most guests then return to Kafunta for at least another night. Close
The management and staff were very friendly and welcoming, the food good and plentiful and there was a nice pool which was just the thing after the morning game drive. I was put in a group of 6 and we were given the senior guide, who was terrific, and stayed together in our little group for the 2 game drives a day and for dinner, when our guide joined us too. There were 2 other groups as well and we did mingle at breakfast, lunch, tea and pre-dinner drinks.
Kafunta have another lodge, known as the Bush Camp, and most of their guests spend a couple of nights there and it seemed to be very popular. I went there too with the other 5 people in my group and our guide, and it’s about a 3 hour drive. I had booked to go to the Bush Camp, but others hadn’t and were able to arrange it on the spot at no extra charge. I imagine this depends on whether there is room available. At the Bush Camp you really experience the proper bush. The chalets are built round trees and accessed by wooden steps so that you feel you’re in a tree house almost. There is no electricity but there are big bucket showers which are filled with hot water after the morning and evening game drives and a jug of hot water to wash in is provided early every morning. There is even a proper flushing loo! Everything was very comfortable and the food delicious – all prepared in a proper bush kitchen complete with large catapult to keep baboons away. At the bush camp we walked instead of going out in the Toyota Landcruiser and were accompanied by our usual guide and an armed guide from the National Parks authority. It was an lovely interlude, but 2 nights there is just about the right amount of time. Most guests then return to Kafunta for at least another night. Close
Matita’s Zambia Holiday | Matita
Susie and Colin's South Africa and Zambia Trip
From start to finish our safari was a wonderful adventure. Every camp we went to offered something different. There were so many highlights but not least the African sunsets. We never tired of them. We were taken out of our comfort zone on more than one occasion but it was fabulous....
Read More
From start to finish our safari was a wonderful adventure. Every camp we went to offered something different. There were so many highlights but not least the African sunsets. We never tired of them. We were taken out of our comfort zone on more than one occasion but it was fabulous. We never imagined we would be so close to a pride of 12 lions or that we would experience the thrill of the successful lion hunt of a lone water buck. Canoeing 8kms down the mighty Zambezi was another highlight as was our three days bush camping and walking safari in the South Luangwa National Park. We met many people in the camps we stayed at who were on their third or fourth trip to Zambia and we’re not surprised. It’s something we would definitely do again.
Close
Susie and Colin’s South Africa and Zambia Trip | Susie and Colin
Diana and Lowell's Zambia Vacation
Many of the highlights listed on the camp pages. Very happy with all of the close-up photos of the various animals. Would certainly advise future guests to stay at least four nights in each camp to fully take advantage of all of the activities and surroundings....
Read More
Many of the highlights listed on the camp pages. Very happy with all of the close-up photos of the various animals. Would certainly advise future guests to stay at least four nights in each camp to fully take advantage of all of the activities and surroundings. The two nights at Tongabezi was really too short as that only allows for one full day of activity. A full day is lost in travel time between camps.
Close
Diana and Lowell’s Zambia Vacation | Diana and Lowell
Malvika's Tanzania and Zanzibar Trip
I am definitely returning to Africa…the safari experience was mind blowing in terms of the sheer glory of nature & creation in all its vastness and generosity. We spent hours looking at a lioness stalk her prey, at a lion pride with around 10 cubs, at a leopard cleverly covering her kill that she had hidden from the vultures...
Read More
I am definitely returning to Africa…the safari experience was mind blowing in terms of the sheer glory of nature & creation in all its vastness and generosity. We spent hours looking at a lioness stalk her prey, at a lion pride with around 10 cubs, at a leopard cleverly covering her kill that she had hidden from the vultures, at a matriarch mourn the death of her young elephant calf, at a new born giraffe with the most incredible eye-lashes and a still attached umbilical cord, at the sleek and graceful cheetah, at hippos, at crocs, at zebras, at cape buffalos, at wild dogs and finally the elusive rhino so we saw the big 5 all in one day, our last! Its paradise on earth which man is chipping away at, slowly. I would like to enjoy it some more before it is lost forever.
Close
Malvika’s Tanzania and Zanzibar Trip | Malvika
Mark and Judy's Kenya Holiday
We only had time for a short 10 day visit to Kenya but this was a trip never to be forgotten. From the moment we landed on the tarmac in Nairobi we were looked after superbly. Everyone we met was kind, considerate and welcoming. There were so many high...
Read More
We only had time for a short 10 day visit to Kenya but this was a trip never to be forgotten. From the moment we landed on the tarmac in Nairobi we were looked after superbly. Everyone we met was kind, considerate and welcoming. There were so many high points it is difficult to pick those with the most impact. The sightings we had of leopard were a real treat and provided some amazing photo opportunities. We also witnessed our first wildebeest crossing of the Mara river. The singing wells in Samburu have left a lasting impression as did the visit to a Samburu village. It is very encouraging to see the tireless work being done for conservation in this part of Africa – something that deserves worldwide support. A big thank you once again to Aardvark and all those we met in Kenya for organising such a wonderful trip.
Close
Mark and Judy’s Kenya Holiday | Mark and Judy
John and Gillian's Zambia and Malawi Holiday
We last visited Robin Pope Safaris in 2008, this being our 4th safari with them. We love the Luangwa Valley and our main reason for patronising RPS has been the superb standard of guiding. We were reassured by this safari that nothing has changed....
Read More
We last visited Robin Pope Safaris in 2008, this being our 4th safari with them. We love the Luangwa Valley and our main reason for patronising RPS has been the superb standard of guiding. We were reassured by this safari that nothing has changed. The guides are not only extremely knowledgeable and professional but they are very good company and a lot of fun to be with. That can be said for all the staff we met and their loyalty to RPS is very evident.
Close
John and Gillian’s Zambia and Malawi Holiday | John and Gillian
Gary and Carol's African Adventure
We asked Aardvark to put together a safari where the camps and their environments were quite different from one another. We didn’t know if we’d ever get back to Africa, so we wanted to have a lot of variety during a 3-week trip. They truly excelled!...
Read More
We asked Aardvark to put together a safari where the camps and their environments were quite different from one another. We didn’t know if we’d ever get back to Africa, so we wanted to have a lot of variety during a 3-week trip. They truly excelled! We had varied experiences in all five of the camps in Tanzania and Botswana, all positive.
We used light aircraft flights between the camps – the only way to go (there are no paved roads out there in the bush!). Food was always excellent, and a lot of it (I gained 6 pounds in 3 weeks!). We interspersed the camps with a full day in Nairobi to start, Vic Falls in the middle, and 3 days in Cape Town at the end – just to break things up. Turned out to be a good choice — and we just loved Cape Town!!
I wanted to see the herd migration, so I picked the time (with Aardvark’s input); Aardvark picked the location. I had hoped to see a Mara River crossing, though Victoria cautioned there’d be no guarantee. Well, we saw 3 crossings; OMG! Leopards are the hardest to spot of the Big 5. We saw our first one in Ngorongoro crater, though far away in a tree. But we found 2 more close up in Kuria Hills, and saw them mate! Our guide said “that is so rare to see” — and I got a photo!
Speaking of guides, the 3 we had for most of our safari time were outstanding! It’s uncanny how they can spot game! My wife’s knee is so-so, and they all got hold of a small step as an aid for her to get into & out of the front seat of the truck; and helped her as needed. Very considerate. Close
Speaking of guides, the 3 we had for most of our safari time were outstanding! It’s uncanny how they can spot game! My wife’s knee is so-so, and they all got hold of a small step as an aid for her to get into & out of the front seat of the truck; and helped her as needed. Very considerate. Close
Gary and Carol’s African Adventure | Gary and Carol
The Lowe Family Kenya Holiday
The game roaming around the tents at night – great fun trying to identify by the prints in the morning – this time zebra, hippo, wildebeest, impala. Seeing leopard and cub – this is always so special. Also the lions and their two month old cubs playing....
Read More
The game roaming around the tents at night – great fun trying to identify by the prints in the morning – this time zebra, hippo, wildebeest, impala. Seeing leopard and cub – this is always so special. Also the lions and their two month old cubs playing. Giraffe fighting and ostriches mating! We have some great video footage this time (didn’t have a camcorder last time) as well as several thousand still photos. Visiting Olkuroto school again was wonderful, however in six years they have only managed to repair the roof and install a toilet. They have a new headmaster (last two months) who is very keen and is visiting the camps to get support. They need all the help they can get.
Close
The Lowe Family Kenya Holiday | The Lowe Family
Brian and Valda's Tanzania, South Africa and Zambia Vacation
Fantastic tour. Would omit winelands next time and spend more time on reserves as winelands in Australia and NZ are equally spectacular and scenic though the wine is more expensive here....
Read More
Fantastic tour. Would omit winelands next time and spend more time on reserves as winelands in Australia and NZ are equally spectacular and scenic though the wine is more expensive here.
Close
Brian and Valda’s Tanzania, South Africa and Zambia Vacation | Valda and Brian
The Cox Family Trip to Kenya
Another great experience with Aardvark – thank you! It’s now more apparent to us than ever that safari-ing in Kenya (and we suspect elsewhere) needs to be seen as not just an experience and holiday but a donation to wildlife conservation and the associated community support...
Read More
Another great experience with Aardvark – thank you! It’s now more apparent to us than ever that safari-ing in Kenya (and we suspect elsewhere) needs to be seen as not just an experience and holiday but a donation to wildlife conservation and the associated community support – I wonder if at some point the travel industry is going to have to spell this out in monetary terms because the relative costs of safari-ing in Kenya with other locations (eg South Africa) and other types of family holiday are a bit painful and could be difficult for some to understand. In terms of our itinerary, the only improvements would have been first, flying direct between the camps (apparently this can be done Laikipia to Mara but not the reverse ..?) and not via Wilson, and second having less time in Nairobi before flying out. Peter of Kicheche, who was our driver, was great but we really having exhausted ‘things to do in Nairobi’!
Close
The Cox Family Trip to Kenya | The Cox Family
Rebecca's 3-Week Trip
This was a great three week trip including six safari camps, Victoria Falls, and Cape Town, planned by people who knew what they were doing. Every camp had different owners and very singular personalities. The camps were small and not always easy to get to but the volume and variety of animals I saw...
Read More
This was a great three week trip including six safari camps, Victoria Falls, and Cape Town, planned by people who knew what they were doing. Every camp had different owners and very singular personalities. The camps were small and not always easy to get to but the volume and variety of animals I saw, and the comfort level of the facilities, was much greater than what is available on the 12 to 20 person packaged tours. I have done a number of nature trips to central America, the Amazon, and Southeast Asia. The great thing about this trip in comparison was that I saw just as many gorgeous birds, and more animals, without having to put up with all the bugs and mosquitoes.
Close
Rebecca’s 3-Week Trip | Rebecca
Rebecca's Zimbabwe and South Africa Vacation
This was a great three week trip including six safari camps, Victoria Falls, and Cape Town, planned by people who knew what they were doing. Every camp had different owners and very singular personalities. The camps were small and not always easy to get to but the volume and variety of animals I saw, and the comfort level of the facilities, was much greater than what is available on the 12 to 20 person packaged tours....
Read More
This was a great three week trip including six safari camps, Victoria Falls, and Cape Town, planned by people who knew what they were doing. Every camp had different owners and very singular personalities. The camps were small and not always easy to get to but the volume and variety of animals I saw, and the comfort level of the facilities, was much greater than what is available on the 12 to 20 person packaged tours. I have done a number of nature trips to central America, the Amazon, and Southeast Asia. The great thing about this trip in comparison was that I saw just as many gorgeous birds, and more animals, without having to put up with all the bugs and mosquitoes.
Close
Rebecca’s Zimbabwe and South Africa Vacation | Rebecca
Kari and Will's Zambia Honeymoon
Kari’s favorite part was seeing how cuddly the lions get with each other when they’re sleeping during the day. The biggest highlight for me was getting to see a lion hunt during our first evening at Mchenja....
Read More
Kari’s favorite part was seeing how cuddly the lions get with each other when they’re sleeping during the day. The biggest highlight for me was getting to see a lion hunt during our first evening at Mchenja. I was quite impressed with how knowledgeable the guides were, and greatly enjoyed learning about the animals and the ecosystem.
Close
Kari and Will’s Zambia Honeymoon | Kari and Will
Dalen's Mount Kilimanjaro Climb and Tanzania Safari
Dalen’s Mount Kilimanjaro Climb and Tanzania Safari | Dalen
Abhishek's Tanzania and Zanzibar Trip
Abhishek’s Tanzania and Zanzibar Trip | Abhishek
Tom and Ilsa's Botswana Adventure
Highlights: getting close to animals (lions, cubs, elephants, hyenas, hippos), cantering through water, beautiful and delicious surprise meals out in the bush, the sweet and nice people, sundowners in magical places, etc....
Read More
Highlights: getting close to animals (lions, cubs, elephants, hyenas, hippos), cantering through water, beautiful and delicious surprise meals out in the bush, the sweet and nice people, sundowners in magical places, etc.
Close
Tom and Ilsa’s Botswana Adventure | Tom and Ilsa
Ryan and Jeanne's Southern Africa Vacation
So many things to say. Wild African dogs with their puppies, honey badger trying to nab a tortoise, being mesmerized by the meerkats; seeing hyena nervously eating a previously killed cape buffalo; seeing a herd of majestic cape buffalo; seeing bull giraffes fighting...
Read More
So many things to say. Wild African dogs with their puppies, honey badger trying to nab a tortoise, being mesmerized by the meerkats; seeing hyena nervously eating a previously killed cape buffalo; seeing a herd of majestic cape buffalo; seeing bull giraffes fighting; seeing leopard close up, with her cub; being endlessly amused by warthogs; learning all the different and beautiful antelope (steenbok are my favorite); seeing the many many large and small birds; seeing an aardvark!; tracking rhino on foot; motor boating through the stunning Okavango delta; mokoring through hippo highways, micro-lighting over Vic Falls, on and on.
Connecting with other guests.
Most of all, while we were on safari, the feeling that there were few other people in the area.
And lastly, being taken care of the whole way, port to port. We are not used to that! Close
Connecting with other guests.
Most of all, while we were on safari, the feeling that there were few other people in the area.
And lastly, being taken care of the whole way, port to port. We are not used to that! Close
Ryan and Jeanne’s Southern Africa Vacation | Jeanne and Ryan
Tom and Ilsa's safari to Botswana
Tom and Ilsa’s safari to Botswana | Tom and Ilsa
Lori and Ralph's safari to Botswana
Tents were nice, service was excellent, food was very good, horseback riding was amazing! Lots of little surprises! Great wranglers.
Very exciting experience!... Read More
Very exciting experience!... Read More
Tents were nice, service was excellent, food was very good, horseback riding was amazing! Lots of little surprises! Great wranglers.
Very exciting experience! Close
Very exciting experience! Close
Lori and Ralph’s safari to Botswana | Lori and Ralph
Kevin and Lynda's Tanzania and Mozambique Trip
Kigelia: Grumpy elephant very close to dining tent, cheetah kill by camp fire, windy giraffe outside tent in middle of night, Kelvin’s amazing cooking skills, all the guides. Beho Beho: Location, stunning open fronted Bandas, all the dining as we ate in a different part of the camp everyday. A few wonderful surprises were thrown in to keep us guessing. The guides again were fabulous as we got to know them quite well....
Read More
Kigelia: Grumpy elephant very close to dining tent, cheetah kill by camp fire, windy giraffe outside tent in middle of night, Kelvin’s amazing cooking skills, all the guides.
Beho Beho: Location, stunning open fronted Bandas, all the dining as we ate in a different part of the camp everyday. A few wonderful surprises were thrown in to keep us guessing. The guides again were fabulous as we got to know them quite well. Visit to the hippo pool the like of which we will never forget, never, ever seen so many hippos in one place. A couple of memorable animal encounters, particularly the one involving the hippo under our boat and our near ‘man overboard’ situation. The other moment was courtesy of an elephant who decided we should stay in our Banda on our last morning and remained by the front door for over half an hour. Magical stuff! Particular enjoyed all the nocturnal sounds from the animals.
Vamizi: A delightful chill out destination with a retinue of staff who were only too pleased to do all they could to make the stay a happy one. We had a few problems with upset tummies, unrelated to food. If I had to make one observation, I would say that the quantity of food was so enormous and we quite bad about leaving so much although we were assured that the staff benefited from that! We really did love Vamizi and would recommend it.
Our trio of destinations provided the perfect contrast as they were all so different. It worked perfectly for us. Close
Our trio of destinations provided the perfect contrast as they were all so different. It worked perfectly for us. Close
Kevin and Lynda’s Tanzania and Mozambique Trip | Kevin and Lynda
The Hilton Family Botswana and Zambia Trip
We stayed also at Camp Linyanti at Linyanti by Chobe which was a lovely lodge on the edge of the river – great option to go in boat or car to safari. Great food and lodge staff excellent with children....
Read More
We stayed also at Camp Linyanti at Linyanti by Chobe which was a lovely lodge on the edge of the river – great option to go in boat or car to safari. Great food and lodge staff excellent with children.
And Fawlty Towers in Livingstone – perfect for a short cheap stopover in Livingstone – pool and clean and central location – recommend. Close
And Fawlty Towers in Livingstone – perfect for a short cheap stopover in Livingstone – pool and clean and central location – recommend. Close
The Hilton Family Botswana and Zambia Trip | The Hilton Family
The Hilton family safari to Botswana and Victoria Falls
Letaka was the highlight of our trip and our guide Michael Turner was exceptional. The whole team made our mobile experience 5+ star – just myself and my nine and ten year old children in a tent at night listening to the sounds of the bush is unforgettable....
Read More
Letaka was the highlight of our trip and our guide Michael Turner was exceptional. The whole team made our mobile experience 5+ star – just myself and my nine and ten year old children in a tent at night listening to the sounds of the bush is unforgettable. Going to bed hearing the elephants walk through the water nearby and the hyenas during the night . We saw leopard cubs, cheetah cubs, lion etc etc but of course my daughter wanted to track giraffe that were not in abundance. We had great fun and will return. You were so right to include this in the itinerary – worth every penny.
Close
The Hilton Family Safari to Botswana and Victoria Falls | The Hilton Family
Erica and Jill's Kenya and Tanzania Trip
Highlights included: seeing my first male lion in the wild – WOW, it made me cry! Brunch with hippos with Trisha and Robin in the Masai Mara two days running. Zebras, giraffes, lions, a cheetah, leopards, elephants, birds and a mass of wildebeest!...
Read More
Highlights included: seeing my first male lion in the wild – WOW, it made me cry! Brunch with hippos with Trisha and Robin in the Masai Mara two days running. Zebras, giraffes, lions, a cheetah, leopards, elephants, birds and a mass of wildebeest! Breakfast by the river at Sosian. Vast panoramas and vast skies of the Masai Mara and Lakipia. Unforgettable.
We both came back with giggered necks/backs so maybe lots of cushions for ladies of a certain age would be a good idea on the Jeeps.
And of course a safari is hard work! Lots of looking and concentrating – quite exhausting really but thoroughly enjoyable. Ticked all the boxes. Would we go back? We have too many other places in the world to experience. But Ras Kutani is a’ yes’. Close
We both came back with giggered necks/backs so maybe lots of cushions for ladies of a certain age would be a good idea on the Jeeps.
And of course a safari is hard work! Lots of looking and concentrating – quite exhausting really but thoroughly enjoyable. Ticked all the boxes. Would we go back? We have too many other places in the world to experience. But Ras Kutani is a’ yes’. Close
Erica and Jill’s Kenya and Tanzania Trip | Erica and JIll
The Leach Family Southern Africa Trip
Having no experience of horses we’re not sure we would have chosen this safari but thankfully we enjoyed every minute. We did not know from yourselves or when googling it that Ants Hill is a riding safari. There are about 50 horses and that is the way they really expect you to see everything....
Read More
Having no experience of horses we’re not sure we would have chosen this safari but thankfully we enjoyed every minute. We did not know from yourselves or when googling it that Ants Hill is a riding safari. There are about 50 horses and that is the way they really expect you to see everything. Everyone walks about in riding gear and we did not feel we had gone really correctly attired in strong shoes trousers and shirts to protect us from scratches. We have bought back a new brochure with us which shows it exactly as it is. Fantastic I have to admit.!!!
Children loved it as did I. Would recommend it to everyone. Close
Children loved it as did I. Would recommend it to everyone. Close
The Leach Family Southern Africa Trip | The Leach Family
The Watson Family Holiday to South Africa
Highlights where can I start. Mother leopard and cub up a tree looking at us. What a photographic opportunity. Being surrounded by a herd of feeding elephants. Cantering up the airstrip being watched by six giraffe spectators....
Read More
Highlights where can I start. Mother leopard and cub up a tree looking at us. What a photographic opportunity. Being surrounded by a herd of feeding elephants. Cantering up the airstrip being watched by six giraffe spectators. We loved all the birds and also the small creatures, ant lions, mongoose, bush baby. The whole sound, smell and feel of South Africa. Sitting at night looking at the stars, seeing the Milky Way and Southern Cross. Just sitting quietly, listening and watching. The country got under our skins and we are captivated.
Close
The Watson Family Holiday to South Africa | The Watson Family
Kay's Zambia Holiday
Well, once again Aardvark deliver the perfect safari – don’t you guys ever slip up! I did seventeen nights in four different camps and it was just great. It was a bit different to what I normally do, but in saying that, I wasn’t disappointed in the least....
Read More
Well, once again Aardvark deliver the perfect safari – don’t you guys ever slip up! I did seventeen nights in four different camps and it was just great. It was a bit different to what I normally do, but in saying that, I wasn’t disappointed in the least. All of my guides were great and Shaddy was exceptional. I really enjoyed the combination of Chinzombo with the Bush Camps and think it worked very, very well. As much as I liked the South Luangwa, I loved the Lower Zambezi – and Potato Bush was fantastic. It is a combination of simple yet luxurious and it was the perfect finishing point.
Close
Kay’s Zambia Holiday | Kay
Dave and Eleonora's Tanzania Holiday
Dave and Eleonora’s Tanzania Holiday | Dave and Eleonora
Ian and Liz's East Africa Holiday
Apart from the journey home everything was brilliant and even that was well sorted by Aardvark and Breezes. Our highlights included the crater view, leopards mating in the Serengeti and the camp fire singing....
Read More
Apart from the journey home everything was brilliant and even that was well sorted by Aardvark and Breezes. Our highlights included the crater view, leopards mating in the Serengeti and the camp fire singing.
Close
Ian and Liz’s East Africa Holiday | Ian and Liz
The Ashton Family Trip to Madagascar
Fantastic trip. We loved the walks in the national parks and saw lots of lemurs and birds. All the places we stayed were excellent with friendly staff and good food and our guide was very good, knowledgeable and helpful....
Read More
Fantastic trip. We loved the walks in the national parks and saw lots of lemurs and birds. All the places we stayed were excellent with friendly staff and good food and our guide was very good, knowledgeable and helpful. We are grateful for Richard’s advice not to try to go to too many places and felt that we had a wonderful holiday with great variety and time to relax as well.
Close
The Ashton Family Trip to Madagascar | The Ashton Family
The France Family Holiday to Zambia
Fabulous time had by all! Very keen to return one day. The camps/lodges were all great…and all gave slightly different experiences. The wildlife we saw in Zambia was extensive – and much more than people we met who had chosen to visit Botswana!...
Read More
Fabulous time had by all! Very keen to return one day. The camps/lodges were all great…and all gave slightly different experiences. The wildlife we saw in Zambia was extensive – and much more than people we met who had chosen to visit Botswana! The Zambian people were delightful – from the knowledgeable guides, the friendly waiters and other hotel staff and the village people and children that we met on our travels. Fantastic! 2500 photos in two weeks is a record for us!
Close
The France Family Holiday to Zambia | The France Family
The Purssell Family Holiday to Kenya
The main object to this holiday was riding for Emily my 18 year old granddaughter. She had a truly wonderful experience at both lodges riding amongst elephants and giraffe and very close to rhino, jackals and many other animals....
Read More
The main object to this holiday was riding for Emily my 18 year old granddaughter. She had a truly wonderful experience at both lodges riding amongst elephants and giraffe and very close to rhino, jackals and many other animals. At Borana she rode ex-polo ponies and thoroughly enjoyed not only the game but also going on long canters through the bush.
Alice my 16 year old had one wish – (being a keen runner) was to run with a Masai. Simon obliged. They set off at pace followed by Karmushu with a gun for protection. She had a fantastic run but admitted it was the most exhausting run ever! One morning a surprise breakfast was set out for us in the bush. After cereal and croissants we thought that was that, but no, out of the bush appeared scrambled eggs, bacon tomatoes and sausages. It was incredible and so beautiful sitting watching elephant nearby tucking into a wonderful breakfast.
For me the highlight was sitting in the middle of a pride of 11 lions, including their cubs, sipping our sundowners, with my family around me. Can it get any better? Close
Alice my 16 year old had one wish – (being a keen runner) was to run with a Masai. Simon obliged. They set off at pace followed by Karmushu with a gun for protection. She had a fantastic run but admitted it was the most exhausting run ever! One morning a surprise breakfast was set out for us in the bush. After cereal and croissants we thought that was that, but no, out of the bush appeared scrambled eggs, bacon tomatoes and sausages. It was incredible and so beautiful sitting watching elephant nearby tucking into a wonderful breakfast.
For me the highlight was sitting in the middle of a pride of 11 lions, including their cubs, sipping our sundowners, with my family around me. Can it get any better? Close
The Purssell Family Holiday to Kenya | The Purssell Family
Martha's safari to Zimbabwe and Botswana
No WiFi, generator at night for light, but it was wonderfully refreshing! The tents had to be triple zipped and locked to keep the baboons out. The horseback riding was spectacular. Galloping through the Okavango delta and yes, you get wet! SO much fun....
Read More
No WiFi, generator at night for light, but it was wonderfully refreshing! The tents had to be triple zipped and locked to keep the baboons out. The horseback riding was spectacular. Galloping through the Okavango delta and yes, you get wet! SO much fun. Definitely not for a beginner rider but I suppose they could take you for an easier ride if you wished. On our final day we crossed a section where we almost had to swim. On the other side we were greeted by the horse grooms who took our horses from us so that we could change into dry clothes that were brought from our tents by the women that kept our tents so clean. We then climbed up to the tree house where we were toasting with champagne and then sat down at a long tale covered with a white table cloth and china! Our meal was hot and delicious! Talk about a surprise! We had no idea!
As I said, the horses were great and if for some reason you wanted to try a different one, it was no problem. Bongwe was our primary guide, and he was fantastic! I also liked the camp because there was assigned seating at dinner, and thus, we all got to know each other as well as all the fabulous people that helped run the place so smoothly. This was truly a unique and thrilling experience!
Close
Martha’s safari to Zimbabwe and Botswana | Martha
Treena and Ronnie's Tanzania and Zanzibar Vacation
Like I said to Ronnie, it was definitely our trip of a lifetime, and it didn’t fly by, it was just perfect amount of days at each place, exactly like you planned it Tor. We met some interesting people. The guides were all very very good and had some great knowledge....
Read More
Like I said to Ronnie, it was definitely our trip of a lifetime, and it didn’t fly by, it was just perfect amount of days at each place, exactly like you planned it Tor. We met some interesting people. The guides were all very very good and had some great knowledge.
Loved it, and would definitely recommend.
The ease of airport pick ups and drop offs takes a huge stress off a holiday also. Close
Loved it, and would definitely recommend.
The ease of airport pick ups and drop offs takes a huge stress off a holiday also. Close
Treena and Ronnie’s Tanzania and Zanzibar Vacation | Treena and Ronnie
The James Family Zambia and Malawi Holiday
Safari was the obvious highlight, with some great sightings, sundowners delights, and Brian, also great was Molly’s bungee off the Vic Falls bridge – but the deck at Kapani Lodge, with drinks, animals to see, friendly staff chatting, dinner, breakfast cooked by the chef in the fire pit, and the lovely brunches were such a pleasure....
Read More
Safari was the obvious highlight, with some great sightings, sundowners
delights, and Brian, also great was Molly’s bungee off the Vic Falls
bridge – but the deck at Kapani Lodge, with drinks, animals to see,
friendly staff chatting, dinner, breakfast cooked by the chef in the
fire pit, and the lovely brunches were such a pleasure. The
village visit from Pumulani, and meeting a guy Pierre who is doing
Permaculture work in the village and trying to get the locals growing
more food, as malnutrition, health, and reducing fish stocks at the lake
are a problem. HIV and AIDS is rife, and there is little support with
the poor, old or vulnerable, which is why they have so many children,
leading to increased poverty, malnutrition and deforestation…I could
go on and on…but this village interest at the end of our stay added a
new dimension, and will continue to be of interest for some years to
come.
It was a shame we didn’t take stuff like kid’s clothes and pencils/
books, as they really could have done with them, and I didn’t get a
chance to check your website about packing with a purpose. The
pre-school had almost no reading aids/ books. Please make it clear to
future guests at Pumulani, Stanleys, or probably any other lodges –
that the local school would some some books/ pencils, and teaching
materials, and toothbrushes/ toothpaste, T-shirts/ shorts etc would be
appreciated. I have never seen such dirty, ripped clothes on children as
in the Pumulani next village. If you want pictures, I have lots… Close
delights, and Brian, also great was Molly’s bungee off the Vic Falls
bridge – but the deck at Kapani Lodge, with drinks, animals to see,
friendly staff chatting, dinner, breakfast cooked by the chef in the
fire pit, and the lovely brunches were such a pleasure. The
village visit from Pumulani, and meeting a guy Pierre who is doing
Permaculture work in the village and trying to get the locals growing
more food, as malnutrition, health, and reducing fish stocks at the lake
are a problem. HIV and AIDS is rife, and there is little support with
the poor, old or vulnerable, which is why they have so many children,
leading to increased poverty, malnutrition and deforestation…I could
go on and on…but this village interest at the end of our stay added a
new dimension, and will continue to be of interest for some years to
come.
It was a shame we didn’t take stuff like kid’s clothes and pencils/
books, as they really could have done with them, and I didn’t get a
chance to check your website about packing with a purpose. The
pre-school had almost no reading aids/ books. Please make it clear to
future guests at Pumulani, Stanleys, or probably any other lodges –
that the local school would some some books/ pencils, and teaching
materials, and toothbrushes/ toothpaste, T-shirts/ shorts etc would be
appreciated. I have never seen such dirty, ripped clothes on children as
in the Pumulani next village. If you want pictures, I have lots… Close
The James Family Zambia and Malawi Holiday | The James Family
Sir John and Lady Dorothy's Botswana Holiday
We intend to go back to Botswana, at some point in the future because we loved it so much. You didn’t ask us about Sandibe (for obvious reasons – it won’t be there in its present, temporary form in another 10 days or so), but the ‘mobile camp’ with its resident elephant was very enjoyable....
Read More
We intend to go back to Botswana, at some point in the future because we loved it so much. You didn’t ask us about Sandibe (for obvious reasons – it won’t be there in its present, temporary form in another 10 days or so), but the ‘mobile camp’ with its resident elephant was very enjoyable. However, we were privileged to be shown the new Sandibe Lodge, which is almost finished. The architecture is superb, but the fixtures, fittings and general interiors are completely OTT for a wilderness area (‘6 star’ stuff), and we would not recommend it to anybody. It feels totally wrong.
Close
Sir John and Lady Dorothy’s Botswana Holiday | John and Dorothy
Ron and Bobbye's safari to South Africa and Botswana
We had the BEST GUIDE in the world. Pat was knowledgeable and fun. He worked hard to locate all the animals we wanted to see, and we got to see so many animal interactions that were amazing. Pat even told us about the night sky and all kinds of trees and plants....
Read More
We had the BEST GUIDE in the world. Pat was knowledgeable and fun. He worked hard to locate all the animals we wanted to see, and we got to see so many animal interactions that were amazing. Pat even told us about the night sky and all kinds of trees and plants. The camp staff couldn’t have been friendlier. They were efficient and the food was the best. We called Moosa “magic”, because he could prepare such wonderful food over the open fire. We were comfortable and had everything we needed in camp.
Close
Ron and Bobbye’s safari to South Africa and Botswana | Ron and Bobbye
Sarah-Jane's riding safari to Kenya
A wonderful holiday with lifelong memories. Jakob Von Plessen was our guide and he was exemplary , we were very very lucky. He made it exciting but ultimately safe and I had the most incredible horse to gallop/jump and get within touching distance of lions, elephants hippos and crocodiles...
Read More
A wonderful holiday with lifelong memories. Jakob Von Plessen was our guide and he was exemplary- we were very very lucky. He made it exciting but ultimately safe and I had the most incredible horse to gallop/jump and get within touching distance of lions, elephants hippos and crocodiles together with all the other ‘safer’ African wildlife. We were looked after like royalty with very considerate attention and could not of asked for anything better.
Close
Sarah-Jane’s riding safari to Kenya | Sarah-Jane
The Mocatta Family Mauritius Holiday
Top things: eldest son arriving for the middle week by helicopter and going to watch it arrive on the 14th hole of the golf course.
The villa, the villa, the villa
Mauritius and Le Paradis – friendly and welcoming at all times.
Enzos -a restaurant at La Gallette – very friendly and good food, nice to get out of the hotel sometimes.... Read More
The villa, the villa, the villa
Mauritius and Le Paradis – friendly and welcoming at all times.
Enzos -a restaurant at La Gallette – very friendly and good food, nice to get out of the hotel sometimes.... Read More
Top things: eldest son arriving for the middle week by helicopter and going to watch it arrive on the 14th hole of the golf course.
The villa, the villa, the villa
Mauritius and Le Paradis – friendly and welcoming at all times.
Enzos – a restaurant at La Gallette – very friendly and good food, nice to get out of the hotel sometimes.
Superb boat trip at sunset on a catamaran. – children dived off the boat for an hour outside the reef as the sun set (but see below!). Niggles:
We were quoted MRupees 2000 for the catamaran trip – ended up, for inexplicable reasons being a whopping MRupees 12,000 – despite asking for it to be written down. Wasn’t a multiple of number of people as we were five – was left feeling slightly ripped off – although it was a great boat trip. I think (occasionally) we can be viewed as very rich Westerners…. Close
The villa, the villa, the villa
Mauritius and Le Paradis – friendly and welcoming at all times.
Enzos – a restaurant at La Gallette – very friendly and good food, nice to get out of the hotel sometimes.
Superb boat trip at sunset on a catamaran. – children dived off the boat for an hour outside the reef as the sun set (but see below!). Niggles:
We were quoted MRupees 2000 for the catamaran trip – ended up, for inexplicable reasons being a whopping MRupees 12,000 – despite asking for it to be written down. Wasn’t a multiple of number of people as we were five – was left feeling slightly ripped off – although it was a great boat trip. I think (occasionally) we can be viewed as very rich Westerners…. Close
The Mocatta Family Mauritius Holiday | The Mocatta Family
Overall a fab holiday – I’ve deleted what you were asking for without reading………think it said memorable moments……….so SA – riding to sundowners, unsaddling and letting the horses just go (they live “wild”) and then all the kids and staff playi...
Read More
Overall a fab holiday – I’ve deleted what you were asking for without reading………think it said memorable moments……….so SA – riding to sundowners, unsaddling and letting the horses just go (they live “wild”) and then all the kids and staff playing rugby while I sipped G and T. My husband and the kids went to watch a sick buffalo being darted from a helicopter and being treated by the vet. Getting to close to the animals on horseback. In Mauritius doing dolphin watching and seeing a humpback whale. Just haven’t given excellent as I was a bit disappointed with Paradis (the weather too wasn’t great which wasn’t anyone’s fault!!).
Close
| The Rusling Family
The Pargetter Family Holiday to Zambia and Malawi
Highlights were obviously the animals. Livingstone was a soft landing and so good with the kids after a long flight. I would have been a bit disappointed to have done that at the end of the trip (ie in my opinion it’s not necessarily worth the extra flights and travelling time just to see the falls)....
Read More
Highlights were obviously the animals. Livingstone was a soft landing and so good with the kids after a long flight. I would have been a bit disappointed to have done that at the end of the trip (ie in my opinion it’s not necessarily worth the extra flights and travelling time just to see the falls). As a whole I thought the trip was good but the food really lets the whole RPS experience down. I can’t remember one meal that I thought was special – it was agreeable and satisfactory. Another way to look at is that I would be very disappointed to receive that type of food if I was out for an evening with the family in the UK.
On an aside I thought BA were useless – I had to fight hard at the check in to even get on the flight on the way home. Close
On an aside I thought BA were useless – I had to fight hard at the check in to even get on the flight on the way home. Close
The Pargetter Family Holiday to Zambia and Malawi | The Pargetter Family
The Gunn Family Trip to Botswana, Zambia and Malawi
The Gunn Family Trip to Botswana, Zambia and Malawi | The Gunn Family
The Rusling Family South Africa and Mauritius Holiday
Overall a fab holiday. Riding to sundowners, unsaddling and letting the horses just go (they live “wild”) and then all the kids and staff playing rugby while I sipped G and T....
Read More
Overall a fab holiday – I’ve deleted what you were asking for without reading………think it said memorable moments……….so
SA – riding to sundowners, unsaddling and letting the horses just go (they live “wild”) and then all the kids and staff playing rugby while I sipped G and T. My husband and the kids went to watch a sick buffalo being darted from a helicopter and being treated by the vet.
Getting to close to the animals on horseback.
In Mauritius doing dolphin watching and seeing a humpback whale.
Just haven’t given excellent as I was a bit disappointed with Paradis (the weather too wasn’t great which wasn’t anyones fault!!). Close
SA – riding to sundowners, unsaddling and letting the horses just go (they live “wild”) and then all the kids and staff playing rugby while I sipped G and T. My husband and the kids went to watch a sick buffalo being darted from a helicopter and being treated by the vet.
Getting to close to the animals on horseback.
In Mauritius doing dolphin watching and seeing a humpback whale.
Just haven’t given excellent as I was a bit disappointed with Paradis (the weather too wasn’t great which wasn’t anyones fault!!). Close
The Rusling Family South Africa and Mauritius Holiday | The Rusling Family
The Robins Family Trip to South Africa
We had an amazing time and fitted a lot into just three weeks. I would definitely want to go to Tanda Tula and Rocktail again. Fugitives Drift was great but I think it is a place you only go to once as it is the history that brings the area to life....
Read More
We had an amazing time and fitted a lot into just three weeks. I would definitely want to go to Tanda Tula and Rocktail again. Fugitives Drift was great but I think it is a place you only go to once as it is the history that brings the area to life.
Close
The Robins Family Trip to South Africa | The Robins Family
The Gunn family safari to Botswana, Zambia and Malawi
Drumbeat were simply brilliant. Annelies is a wonderfully welcoming host, extremely efficient and all round nice person. While not the “lap of luxury” that you might expect from some of the static lodges, the camp was exceptionally comfortable...
Read More
Drumbeat were simply brilliant. Annelies is a wonderfully welcoming host, extremely efficient and all round nice person. While not the “lap of luxury” that you might expect from some of the static lodges, the camp was exceptionally comfortable (with nice touches such as dressing tables and mirrors outside each tent, short drop loos with proper loo seats and warm bucket showers) and the food was amazing, especially considering it was all cooked in a ground oven (a tin box in a pit surrounded by hot coals). Our guide, Scottie was exceptional and became known to us as “Mr Leopard” as we saw eight different leopards on our trip as well as a lion kill (apparently very rare), painted dogs and a cheetah with two cubs. We can’t praise this company highly enough and for those looking for the safari experience as it used to be, I wouldn’t look anywhere else.
Close
The Gunn family safari to Botswana, Zambia and Malawi | The Gunn Family
Jill and Derek's safari to South Africa and Botswana
I don’t think there are words to describe how special this trip was for our family. Our guide, Pat, was exceptional. Not only was he extremely knowledgeable about the mammal, reptiles, birds, insects but also geology, astronomy and ecosystems. Pat has training as a educator and was able to teach us all everyday about more in depth topics related to the region....
Read More
I don’t think there are words to describe how special this trip was for our family. Our guide, Pat, was exceptional. Not only was he extremely knowledgeable about the mammal, reptiles, birds, insects but also geology, astronomy and ecosystems. Pat has training as a educator and was able to teach us all everyday about more in depth topics related to the region. I can not think of one time we asked him a questions and he did not know the answer and was not able to explain the answer to us in way that we would understand. Along with his impressive knowledge base, he is also an outstanding person. He holds himself and his company to high standards, he is kind, considerate and a team player working well with other guides in the area. He was patient while we were out in the truck always waiting the extra time to catch the truely remarkable interactions between animals. Many other guides would stop to see the animals and after 10 minutes would drive away. We typically would spend and hour or two just watching how the animals interacted with each other and with their environment which allowed us to have a more intimate experience with our surroundings.
The rest of the camp staff from Letaka were equally as kind, friendly, helpful and always with a smile on their face. They made us feel at home, like we were all family, the moment we arrived. The chef, Mosa, was a magician. What he was able to create in that in environment does not seem possible. The food was better than an food I have eaten in a high end restaurant. He is a very gifted chef. Mueller and KP were always available to help, answer questions and make sure we were comfortable.
A few of the highlights for me included our walking safari with Pat when we had a close encounter with a grazing elephant. During this walking safari Pat was always in control and I felt completely safe. Hearing the noises at night time including elephants trumpeting behind our tent, a hyena drinking from my water basin and lions roaring was a very special experience. Also, the flight from the Okavango Delta to Maun was amazing. The plane ride felt like part of our safari as the scenery was breath-taking. I can not give enough positive about the staff we worked with from Letaka safaris or the safari destinations in the northern highlights tour. Spectacular.
Close
Jill and Derek’s safari to South Africa and Botswana | Jill and Derek
Jill and Derek's Southern Africa Vacation
This trip was more than we expected. We came on this trip to spend time with Derek’s parents and to give them a chance to fulfill their dream of having a vacation in Africa. We expected to see animals and enjoy our time but it was so much more. We were given a unique look into the lives of the animals in a variety of different ecosystems....
Read More
This trip was more than we expected. We came on this trip to spend time with Derek’s parents and to give them a chance to fulfill their dream of having a vacation in Africa. We expected to see animals and enjoy our time but it was so much more. We were given a unique look into the lives of the animals in a variety of different ecosystems. We saw interactions between animals including lions mating, elephants bathing and crossing rivers, and multiple young baby including lion cubs, hyena pups, elephant babies, giraffe babies, and leopard cubs. Having been at a lodge during our last safari, which was wonderful, the mobile safari was exponentially more special. We were on our own time schedule, had a more connected experience with the environment and were completely disconnected to electronics which was very refreshing. Thank you for organizing such a spectacular trip.
Close
Jill and Derek’s Southern Africa Vacation | Jill and Derek
Guides were excellent, helpful, informative and listened to what we wanted to do. Always someone there to look after us. Baraza is outstanding but could be anywhere as not advisable to leave the resort without a guide, having said that we have never encou...
Read More
Guides were excellent, helpful, informative and listened to what we wanted to do. Always someone there to look after us. Baraza is outstanding but could be anywhere as not advisable to leave the resort without a guide, having said that we have never encountered that beautiful white sand and warm sea before. The service is EXCEPTIONAL. Kicheche Mara, our first safari and I am not sure how we will top it, the guides, service, tents and staff were OUTSTANDING and of course the wildlife blew our socks off. Each one of us had a different favourite moment.
Close
| The Frohlich Family
Angela and Russell's safari to Botswana
Where to start. It was all so fantastic. I heard about the Letaka Safaris at an airport in Madagaska whilst chatting to a couple who had just been on a Botswana safari with them. Their comment was “the animals were almost too close for comfort”. How accurate they were....
Read More
Where to start. It was all so fantastic. I heard about the Letaka Safaris at an airport in Madagaska whilst chatting to a couple who had just been on a Botswana safari with them. Their comment was “the animals were almost too close for comfort”. How accurate they were. My first experience was with a leopard who walked along my side of our vehicle, stopped long enough for me to take a photo and then walked on. This is how the whole trip continued. Ten thousand photos later and a huge thank you to our amazing guide, Nkosi, we sadly left beautiful Botswana. You asked for any niggles – well the beds were really uncomfortable. Very narrow and wobbly. Mine collapsed on one occasion but I understand new beds and mattresses are coming soon. A tip from me for future travellers. Please take thermal underwear and warm clothes as the nights do get very cold. The Letaka hot water bottles were very welcome.
Close
Angela and Russell’s safari to Botswana | Angela and Russell
Yudhana and Chakridej's African Adventure
I have the best time of my life. Africa is a great continent and their people are the greatest. The choices you gave us regarding the destinations, the sequences and the timing were perfect. Thanks....
Read More
I have the best time of my life. Africa is a great continent and their people are the greatest. The choices you gave us regarding the destinations, the sequences and the timing were perfect. Thanks.
I thing I would change is the one day stop over when arriving in Nairobi was unnecessary since I arrive very early. Would rather go straight to Sirikoi rather than hang around in Nairobi. But since the hotel Palacina is so lovely, all is forgiven. 🙂 Close
I thing I would change is the one day stop over when arriving in Nairobi was unnecessary since I arrive very early. Would rather go straight to Sirikoi rather than hang around in Nairobi. But since the hotel Palacina is so lovely, all is forgiven. 🙂 Close
Yudhana and Chakridej’s African Adventure | Mr and Mrs Aimthikul
Bob and Nancy's Zambia Vacation
Our safari was the perfect blend of comfort and being in the bush. I loved being able to take a hot shower and sleep in a comfy bed. The highlights were standing on the edge of Victoria Falls and looking over (still cannot believe I did that), waking up to our private little beach on Sindabezi, watching a herd of 18 elephants cross the Luangwa River in front of our camp at Mchenja...
Read More
Our safari was the perfect blend of comfort and being in the bush. I loved being able to take a hot shower and sleep in a comfy bed. The highlights were standing on the edge of Victoria Falls and looking over (still cannot believe I did that), waking up to our private little beach on Sindabezi, watching a herd of 18 elephants cross the Luangwa River in front of our camp at Mchenja, viewing a gorgeous lioness on a downed tree at very close range at Mchenja, being approached by a curious giraffe on our drive to the airport in Mfuwe, the rising super moon and sunset on the Zambezi, a breakneck race in our safari vehicle in the dark at Chiawa to find a leopard, which we did, being very close to an elephant on a tiny patch of grass in the Zambezi while we were in the boat, watching a pride of lions lazing about as the sun went down, and then having sundowners and watching them parade in single file to the river, I could go on. If I had to say there was one experience I would like to have changed it would be the private charter from Mfuwe to Royal Airstrip. The pilot was great, the flight was uneventful, but the age and condition of the aircraft did not instill confidence. It sounded like a jalopy, and if I had not had earplugs in my bag, I think I would have been deaf after the hour and 45 minute flight.
Close
Bob and Nancy’s Zambia Vacation | Bob and Nancy
The Frohlich Family Holiday to Kenya and Zanzibar
Guides were excellent, helpful, informative and listened to what we wanted to do. Always someone there to look after us. Baraza is outstanding but could be anywhere as not advisable to leave the resort without a guide, having said that we have never encountered that beautiful white sand and warm sea before....
Read More
Guides were excellent, helpful, informative and listened to what we wanted to do. Always someone there to look after us. Baraza is outstanding but could be anywhere as not advisable to leave the resort without a guide, having said that we have never encountered that beautiful white sand and warm sea before. The service is EXCEPTIONAL. Kicheche Mara, our first safari and I am not sure how we will top it, the guides, service, tents and staff were OUTSTANDING and of course the wildlife blew our socks off. Each one of us had a different favourite moment.
Close
The Frohlich Family Holiday to Kenya and Zanzibar | The Frohlich Family
Arvind's Botswana and Zambia Trip
Excellent experience with Victoria at Aardvark Safari. I have crowed a lot about her already. Safari was unique and unforgettable experience. I would love to repeat the trip. Only regret is that I was not always ready with video when elephant trumpeted, or charged (mini) at us or lion charged (mini) at us....
Read More
Excellent experience with Victoria at Aardvark Safari. I have crowed a lot about her already. Safari was unique and unforgettable experience. I would love to repeat the trip.
Only regret is that I was not always ready with video when elephant trumpeted, or charged (mini) at us or lion charged (mini) at us.
Another regret is, I did not request for recipe for soup from chef at Xigeri camp. She was extremely polite and pleasant but I was not sure that she would like to share recipe or not. Close
Only regret is that I was not always ready with video when elephant trumpeted, or charged (mini) at us or lion charged (mini) at us.
Another regret is, I did not request for recipe for soup from chef at Xigeri camp. She was extremely polite and pleasant but I was not sure that she would like to share recipe or not. Close
Arvind’s Botswana and Zambia Trip | Arvind
Sand Rivers – breakfast at Stieglers Gorge on the banks of the river. Sunset over Lake Tagalala Beho Beho – Sunset with a gin and tonic whilst watching lions on the edge of a small river cliff. Breakfast on the shores of Lake Tagalala. Zanzibar – boat tri...
Read More
Sand Rivers – breakfast at Stieglers Gorge on the banks of the river. Sunset over Lake Tagalala Beho Beho – Sunset with a gin and tonic whilst watching lions on the edge of a small river cliff. Breakfast on the shores of Lake Tagalala. Zanzibar – boat trip to Mnemba, trip to Stone Town. Sunset at Kilindi, walking safaris, every meal we had, flying into and out of the Selous on a small light aircraft, seeing our first Lions in the wild…and then them seeing us! (won’t forget that stare…ever), lion stalking for a kill, elephants…the list of highlights goes on!
Close
| Tom and Emily
Robin and Dennis's Botswana and Zimbabwe Adventure
We had a number of incredible highlights, such as seeing a lioness released in Chobe after she killed a farmer’s goat. Also, I’d love to write about our trip for you magazine. I have a slant on elephants, which were my favorites: Never hire an Elephant as your Gardner....
Read More
We had a number of incredible highlights, such as seeing a lioness released in Chobe after she killed a farmer’s goat. Also, I’d love to write about our trip for you magazine. I have a slant on elephants, which were my favorites: Never hire an Elephant as your Gardner.
Close
Robin and Dennis’s Botswana and Zimbabwe Adventure | Robin and Dennis
Tom and Emily's Tanzania and Zanzibar Honeymoon
Sand Rivers – breakfast at Stieglers Gorge on the banks of the river. Sunset over Lake Tagalala
Beho Beho – Sunset with a gin and tonic whilst watching Lions on the edge of a small river cliff. Breakfast on the shores of Lake Tagalala.... Read More
Beho Beho – Sunset with a gin and tonic whilst watching Lions on the edge of a small river cliff. Breakfast on the shores of Lake Tagalala.... Read More
Sand Rivers – breakfast at Stieglers Gorge on the banks of the river. Sunset over Lake Tagalala
Beho Beho – Sunset with a gin and tonic whilst watching Lions on the edge of a small river cliff. Breakfast on the shores of Lake Tagalala.
Zanzibar – boat trip to Mnemba, trip to Stone Town. Sunset at Kilindi
Walking Safaris, every meal we had, flying into and out of the Selous on a small light aircraft, seeing our first Lions in the wild…and then them seeing us! (won’t forget that stare…ever), lion stalking for a kill, elephants…the list of highlights goes on! Close
Beho Beho – Sunset with a gin and tonic whilst watching Lions on the edge of a small river cliff. Breakfast on the shores of Lake Tagalala.
Zanzibar – boat trip to Mnemba, trip to Stone Town. Sunset at Kilindi
Walking Safaris, every meal we had, flying into and out of the Selous on a small light aircraft, seeing our first Lions in the wild…and then them seeing us! (won’t forget that stare…ever), lion stalking for a kill, elephants…the list of highlights goes on! Close
Tom and Emily’s Tanzania and Zanzibar Honeymoon | Tom and Emily
Overall a great experience, we have traveled around a lot of the world and Africa has been on our list forever. Cape Town was much nicer than we ever expected and Zambia was perfect for us. We absolutely loved Sindabezi and the accommodations.The Lower Za...
Read More
Overall a great experience, we have traveled around a lot of the world and Africa has been on our list forever. Cape Town was much nicer than we ever expected and Zambia was perfect for us. We absolutely loved Sindabezi and the accommodations.The Lower Zambezi was nice but we felt the South Luangwa was much better. Probably three days too many of game drives, the biggest issue we had was that we got a bit stir crazy and/or confined at the camps. We are both really active and the camps after awhile felt confining. Likoma Island on Lake Malawi was awesome, we could get out around the island or just hang out with outstanding views and beaches.
Close
| Brent and Lisa
Overall a great experience, we have traveled around a lot of the world and Africa has been on our list forever. Cape Town was much nicer than we ever expected and Zambia was perfect for us. We absolutely loved Sindabezi and the accommodations.The Lower Za...
Read More
Overall a great experience, we have traveled around a lot of the world and Africa has been on our list forever. Cape Town was much nicer than we ever expected and Zambia was perfect for us. We absolutely loved Sindabezi and the accommodations.The Lower Zambezi was nice but we felt the South Luangwa was much better. Probably three days too many of game drives, the biggest issue we had was that we got a bit stir crazy and/or confined at the camps. We are both really active and the camps after awhile felt confining. Likoma Island on Lake Malawi was awesome, we could get out around the island or just hang out with outstanding views and beaches.
Close
| Brent and Lisa
The O'Sullivan Family Trip to Zimbabwe
A brilliant trip – a mix of adventure and wildlife and sightseeing. As our “last” family trip before the kids go to university it could hardly have been bettered....
Read More
A brilliant trip – a mix of adventure and wildlife and sightseeing. As our “last” family trip before the kids go to university it could hardly have been bettered.
Close
The O’Sullivan Family Trip to Zimbabwe | The O'Sullivan Family
Brent and Lisa's Vacation to Southern Africa
Overall a great experience, we have traveled around a lot of the world and Africa has been on our list forever. Cape Town was much nicer than we ever expected and Zambia was perfect for us. We absolutely loved Sindabezi and the accommodations. The Lower Zambezi was nice but we felt the South Luangwa was much better....
Read More
Overall a great experience, we have traveled around a lot of the world and Africa has been on our list forever. Cape Town was much nicer than we ever expected and Zambia was perfect for us. We absolutely loved Sindabezi and the accommodations.The Lower Zambezi was nice but we felt the South Luangwa was much better. Probably three days too many of game drives, the biggest issue we had was that we got a bit stir crazy and/or confined at the camps. We are both really active and the camps after awhile felt confining. Likoma Island on Lake Malawi was awesome, we could get out around the island or just hang out with outstanding views and beaches.
Close
Brent and Lisa’s Vacation to Southern Africa | Brent and Lisa
David and Sheila's Southern Africa Holiday
We could have spent two full weeks in South Africa and still not seen everything. We were apprehensive before arriving as friends and family kept telling us how dangerous it was and what to do and not to do. However, there was no issue at all and we felt safe after the first day or so....
Read More
We could have spent two full weeks in South Africa and still not seen everything. We were apprehensive before arriving as friends and family kept telling us how dangerous it was and what to do and not to do. However, there was no issue at all and we felt safe after the first day or so. We were blessed with the weather and got up Table Mountain on a very clear day, we drove down to the Cape, visited the African penguins, saw some whales in Hermanus and walked with the cheetahs. We felt the journey was a bit rushed but it certainly gave us a taste for the Garden Route area and we would like to go back there sometime for a two week holiday to explore more.
We are slowly working our way through photos and enjoying the memories.
Many thanks for organising such a fantastic trip for us. We cannot praise you enough. Close
We are slowly working our way through photos and enjoying the memories.
Many thanks for organising such a fantastic trip for us. We cannot praise you enough. Close
David and Sheila’s Southern Africa Holiday | Sheila and David
Sheila and David's safari to Botswana, Zambia and South Africa
The safari in Botswana was first class. Annelies and Scott (our guide), together with the camp staff, looked after us very well. We went with no expectations or particular wishes and they seemed pleased they could just relax and show us what was around....
Read More
The safari in Botswana was first class. Annelies and Scott (our guide), together with the camp staff, looked after us very well. We went with no expectations or particular wishes and they seemed pleased they could just relax and show us what was around. To name a few, we saw three packs of wild dogs, lion, cheetah and five sightings of leopard (four, of three different leopard, in one day). The birdlife was amazing and we even managed to get some photos of them which were in focus. We had hyena walking through the camp and one stood and watched us for a few seconds just 10 feet away from us. We even had wildlife wanting to share our bed in the tent- something like a gerbil but bigger! We sat and watched around 40 giraffe at a watering hole and shared our tea break spot with an elephant who came in for water. The food was amazing. We can’t believe food of that quality could be produced on a camp fire and we had fresh bread every day cooked in the camp fire oven.
Close
Sheila and David’s safari to Botswana, Zambia and South Africa | Sheila and David
David's Kenya Riding Holiday
David’s Kenya Riding Holiday | David
David's riding safari to Kenya
I really enjoyed the safari. the horses were good and the guides very helpful. Food and hospitality were excellent. The only niggle was the days when we moved camp were very long. One day was too long and very tiring....
Read More
I really enjoyed the safari. the horses were good and the guides very helpful. Food and hospitality were excellent. The only niggle was the days when we moved camp were very long. One day was too long and very tiring.
I liked riding with a large group; some great people. Close
I liked riding with a large group; some great people. Close
David’s riding safari to Kenya | David
The Rome Family Holiday to Zambia and Botswana
There were no real lows. It ran like clockwork and was all so much better than I had hoped for. The flights all worked and mostly on time as anywhere. Watching lions eating an elephant, my son bungee jumping, sitting in the water on the edge of the Victoria Falls, catching tiger fish and the surprise at the end....
Read More
There were no real lows. It ran like clockwork and was all so much better than I had hoped for. The flights all worked and mostly on time as anywhere. Watching lions eating an elephant, my son bungee jumping, sitting in the water on the edge of the Victoria Falls, catching tiger fish and the surprise at the end. All in 12 nights and we felt we had been away for months.
Close
The Rome Family Holiday to Zambia and Botswana | The Rome Family
The Marley Family South Africa and Zambia Vacation
Overall we were very pleased with our first safari vacation, I don’t think we could have done any better. The people of Zambia are so friendly and helpful (and are very proud of this) that we always felt welcome every place we went. All the meets and greets went off without a hitch....
Read More
Overall we were very pleased with our first safari vacation, I don’t think we could have done any better. The people of Zambia are so friendly and helpful (and are very proud of this) that we always felt welcome every place we went. All the meets and greets went off without a hitch.
In retrospect we probably should have done the trip backwards, starting with Kasaka, then Lion Camp, then Thorntree. (I think Victoria in fact tried to schedule it this way).
Little details like arranging for people to help us change planes in Lusaka was very much appreciated. We also enjoyed the Soweto tour. Not something we would have ever thought to do but was an interesting cultural experience.
We really appreciated the advice and help from the emergency number when our flight was canceled. Next time we will use the travel agent you suggest.
Nitpicks (these are tough to think of): airport driver in South Africa actively tried to sell us an independent activity the afternoon we arrived. Of course we were too exhausted to contemplate but that wasn’t very professional (“Your room won’t be available until 3PM”, which I knew was not true and in fact was not true). Fire and Ice was nice but felt like it was trying too hard to be trendy, but they were friendly and helpful. The flight out of Royal Airstrip at the end was apparently subcontracted out to an independent operator by Proflight. This was in a somewhat less well maintained small twin prop that felt a little dodgy (pilot had trouble closing the passenger door for example) but was OK. Close
In retrospect we probably should have done the trip backwards, starting with Kasaka, then Lion Camp, then Thorntree. (I think Victoria in fact tried to schedule it this way).
Little details like arranging for people to help us change planes in Lusaka was very much appreciated. We also enjoyed the Soweto tour. Not something we would have ever thought to do but was an interesting cultural experience.
We really appreciated the advice and help from the emergency number when our flight was canceled. Next time we will use the travel agent you suggest.
Nitpicks (these are tough to think of): airport driver in South Africa actively tried to sell us an independent activity the afternoon we arrived. Of course we were too exhausted to contemplate but that wasn’t very professional (“Your room won’t be available until 3PM”, which I knew was not true and in fact was not true). Fire and Ice was nice but felt like it was trying too hard to be trendy, but they were friendly and helpful. The flight out of Royal Airstrip at the end was apparently subcontracted out to an independent operator by Proflight. This was in a somewhat less well maintained small twin prop that felt a little dodgy (pilot had trouble closing the passenger door for example) but was OK. Close
The Marley Family South Africa and Zambia Vacation | The Marley Family
Alexis and Andrew's Botswana Holiday
We were very impressed with the wildlife and tourism in the Okavango Delta. We were often the only vehicle in sight and rare species such as leopard and wild dog appear to be relatively easily seen. More expensive than other African countries but hard to complain when the experience is of such high quality and the country seems to take conservation very seriously....
Read More
We were very impressed with the wildlife and tourism in the Okavango Delta. We were often the only vehicle in sight and rare species such as leopard and wild dog appear to be relatively easily seen. More expensive than other African countries but hard to complain when the experience is of such high quality and the country seems to take conservation very seriously.
Close
Alexis and Andrew’s Botswana Holiday | Alexis and Andrew
The Balfour Family South Africa Vacation
We had a fabulous trip in Cape Town, and at Ngala Tented Camp and Chitwa Chitwa. The Cape Town highlights were our stay at the beautiful Cape Grace, the hike on Table Mountain, the trip to the Cape and to visit the penguins, the visit to Cheetah Outreach and the great meals including La Petite Ferme near Franschoek....
Read More
We had a fabulous trip in Cape Town, and at Ngala Tented Camp and Chitwa Chitwa. The Cape Town highlights were our stay at the beautiful Cape Grace, the hike on Table Mountain, the trip to the Cape and to visit the penguins, the visit to Cheetah Outreach, and the great meals including La Petite Ferme near Franschoek. Ngala highlights were the wonderful ranger, Derrick, and the lovely staff in total, the quality of the game drives where we saw lions daily along with the rest of the big 5, and the comfort and quality of the tented camp lodges. Our highlights at Chitwa Chitwa included the awesome ranger and tracker who led us on so many great drives, including on our last day where we saw a family of elephants with babies, and 16 lions/lionesses stretched out together on a little airstrip where we could check them out within feet of our truck. We also saw baby zebras, giraffes, wild dogs and hyenas. They planned fun sun-uppers and sun-downers each day during the drives. And each day when we returned to camp, they brought us lunch to enjoy on our spacious private back decks with beautiful views of the lake behind. This was one of the best trips our family has ever been on.
Close
The Balfour Family South Africa Vacation | The Balfour Family
Alexis and Andrew's safari to Botswana
We had a great time on our safari with Drumbeat. There were some truly amazing wildlife experiences (seeing lion, hyaena and wild dog cubs/pups, a leopard stalking guinea fowl and wild dogs hunting to name a few) and our guide, Moss, was very knowledgeable....
Read More
We had a great time on our safari with Drumbeat. There were some truly amazing wildlife experiences (seeing lion, hyaena and wild dog cubs/pups, a leopard stalking guinea fowl and wild dogs hunting to name a few) and our guide, Moss, was very knowledgeable.
The camp was very comfortable with a walk-in tent, complete with double bed, en-suite bucket shower and toilet and many thoughtful touches. The food was excellent and we enjoyed chatting around the campfire with Annelies and Moss.
Many thanks to Drumbeat for looking after us so well. Close
The camp was very comfortable with a walk-in tent, complete with double bed, en-suite bucket shower and toilet and many thoughtful touches. The food was excellent and we enjoyed chatting around the campfire with Annelies and Moss.
Many thanks to Drumbeat for looking after us so well. Close
Alexis and Andrew’s safari to Botswana | Alexis and Andrew
KIA Lodge
Our trip was probably the best I have ever experienced and I have been all over the world. If I go back to Africa I would love to go to Greystoke Mahale and Zanzibar. Since we were not ready to come home I wish I had signed us up for Zanzibar. Perhaps later....
Read More
Our trip was probably the best I have ever experienced and I have been all over the world. If I go back to Africa I would love to go to Greystoke Mahale and Zanzibar. Since we were not ready to come home I wish I had signed us up for Zanzibar. Perhaps later.
Close
KIA Lodge | The Pace Family
Brent and Tanya's Namibia Vacation
Highlights were: Cheetah Conservation Fund visit — we would have liked more time there; Etosha wildlife — especially watching elephants and seeing both black and white rhinos; The waterhole at the Okaukuejo Rest Camp — We could have stayed there two nights and skipped a day at Swakopmund....
Read More
Highlights were: Cheetah Conservation Fund visit — we would have liked more time there; Etosha wildlife — especially watching elephants and seeing both black and white rhinos; The waterhole at the Okaukuejo Rest Camp — We could have stayed there two nights and skipped a day at Swakopmund. We talked the guide into stopping at Spitzkoff after Twyfelfontein to see the paintings as we’d seen only the rock carvings at Twyfelfontein.
The Karibu guide and staff were terrific. Camping was very comfortable, food was excellent. We liked the camping more than the lodges.
Close
Brent and Tanya’s Namibia Vacation | Tanya and Brent
The Crowley Family Tanzania Vacation
One of the best family vacations we have had. Getting to and from Africa does require a lot of travel and work from California. Would recommend some down time after arrival to adjust (which we did and were happy for)....
Read More
One of the best family vacations we have had. Getting to and from Africa does require a lot of travel and work from California. Would recommend some down time after arrival to adjust (which we did and were happy for).
Close
The Crowley Family Tanzania Vacation | The Crowley Family
| Rhonda
The Crowley family safari to Tanzania
Summits Africa were the best. Ake and the team prepared us for the summit mentally, physically, and emotionally. Very supportive. A great introduction to the people of Tanzania. Loved the singing and cheerful attitude of the entire staff....
Read More
Summits Africa were the best. Ake and the team prepared us for the summit mentally, physically, and emotionally. Very supportive. A great introduction to the people of Tanzania. Loved the singing and cheerful attitude of the entire staff.
Close
The Crowley family safari to Tanzania | The Crowley Family
The Chatterton Family Holiday to Mauritius
Might think about direct flight next time although transit in Dubai was easy and seemless – as tall chap quite nice to stretch out legs for second leg. First time and certainly will be coming back. Professional and thorough. Made my life so much easier....
Read More
Might think about direct flight next time although transit in Dubai was easy and seemless – as tall chap quite nice to stretch out legs for second leg.
First time and certainly will be coming back. Professional and thorough. Made my life so much easier. Big thanks to Richard Smith and all the team .
Close
The Chatterton Family Holiday to Mauritius | The Chatterton Family
Rhonda's safari to Botswana and South Africa
I was on a different planet in the Okavango Delta – it was a spectacular trip in all respects! The journey in from Maun, the welcome, horses, food, tented camp, the guides, the rides, the wildlife – not only the mammals but also birds and insects...
Read More
I was on a different planet in the Okavango Delta – it was a spectacular trip in all respects! The journey in from Maun, the welcome, horses, food, tented camp, the guides, the rides, the wildlife – not only the mammals but also birds and insects – the terrain and plant life – I had a wide grin on my face all the time part from when laughing out loud during the splashy canters and gasping with delight at all the wonders and experiences opening up in front of me. The highlights? – too many to mention – but maybe these: giraffe group running ahead of us across water, first sight of hippo on boat ride in, close encounter with leopard straight after a kill, the surprise lunches in unusual places with dry clothes waiting, just the fun of meeting amazing staff and guides and other guests, all intent on having the adventure of a lifetime on horseback! Saving already!
Close
Rhonda’s safari to Botswana and South Africa | Rhonda
The Browne Family Kenya Vacation
I would definitely recommend a safari vacation and hope to go on another one. The number of animals and birds we saw was astounding. It was incredible how close you can get the animals, a little scary even sometimes. The guides are so knowledgeable, and I feel like we all learned so much from them....
Read More
I would definitely recommend a safari vacation and hope to go on another one. The number of animals and birds we saw was astounding. It was incredible how close you can get the animals, a little scary even sometimes. The guides are so knowledgeable, and I feel like we all learned so much from them. We were incredibly well taken care of and felt very safe. It was very disappointing to not spend the last days as we expected. Our stay in Karen would have been great if for only 2 nights; 3 nights almost 4 because of a very late flight was tedious. Our day out at the elephant orphanage and the bead factory was great. I did not realize that it was going to be a cold as it was; I think I would have brought another jacket. It was really fun to experience the different locations and environments. It was the trip of a lifetime!
Close
The Browne Family Kenya Vacation | Kristan, Caroline, John and William
Bishop's School Trip to East Africa
Ben and his crew were amazing – highly recommend using them again!!! So friendly, great at their jobs, and were willing to get to know us and let us get to know them. Calm, flexible, knowledgeable, everything anyone could want!!!...
Read More
Ben and his crew were amazing – highly recommend using them again!!! So friendly, great at their jobs, and were willing to get to know us and let us get to know them. Calm, flexible, knowledgeable, everything anyone could want!!!
Karisia – did such an amazing job the entire time. Really outstanding when half our group go a 24 hour bug. Professional and personal, what an amazing mixture. Close
Karisia – did such an amazing job the entire time. Really outstanding when half our group go a 24 hour bug. Professional and personal, what an amazing mixture. Close
Bishop’s School Trip to East Africa | Kristin
Andrew and Michelle's Tanzania and Zanzibar Honeymoon
Andrew and Michelle’s Tanzania and Zanzibar Honeymoon | Andrew and Michelle
The Purcell Family Vacation to Southern Africa
We also loved Cape Town. Our driver was excellent – punctual, respectful etc and again, was well informed about history and information. The men shared a common love of rugby and cricket, so there was lots of discussion about sport....
Read More
We also loved Cape Town. Our driver was excellent – punctual, respectful etc and again, was well informed about history and information. The men shared a common love of rugby and cricket, so there was lots of discussion about sport.
We did a tour of a township. This was very confronting – not sure if I enjoyed it or not because of the living conditions we saw. Instead of looking at animals in the wild, we were looking at human beings. That is the part I didn’t like.
Perhaps, I might have changed the itinerary to spend a night in the wine area because our day trip there seem so rushed. We had a nice lunch in a restaurant and it would have been nice to experience some more of that area and the lovely towns, especially Franschoek.
We were amazed at how cheap the wine and food is in South Africa. We ate at some fabulous restaurants in Cape Town – The Pot Luck Club, Millers Thumb and at Overture in Stellenbosch. Close
We did a tour of a township. This was very confronting – not sure if I enjoyed it or not because of the living conditions we saw. Instead of looking at animals in the wild, we were looking at human beings. That is the part I didn’t like.
Perhaps, I might have changed the itinerary to spend a night in the wine area because our day trip there seem so rushed. We had a nice lunch in a restaurant and it would have been nice to experience some more of that area and the lovely towns, especially Franschoek.
We were amazed at how cheap the wine and food is in South Africa. We ate at some fabulous restaurants in Cape Town – The Pot Luck Club, Millers Thumb and at Overture in Stellenbosch. Close
The Purcell Family Vacation to Southern Africa | Sue and Noel
To pick one highlight would be impossible. Having experienced three such different experiences, each with its own breath taking moment would be impossible. For me though, to see a herd of elephant for the first time in their natural environment, cross a r...
Read More
To pick one highlight would be impossible. Having experienced three such different experiences, each with its own breath taking moment would be impossible. For me though, to see a herd of elephant for the first time in their natural environment, cross a river, the young holding on to their mother’s tails was momentous.But the fact that they looked so small because the landscape was immense was overwhelming. I have always wanted to see the Victoria Falls and it did not disappoint, so powerful and raw. Malawi was dreamy and beautiful, a perfect few days after so much adrenaline had been coursing through my veins.
Close
| Giles and Alison
Giles and Alison's Zimbabwe, Zambia and Malawi Holiday
To pick one highlight would be impossible. Having experienced three such different experiences, each with its own breath taking moment would be impossible. For me though, to see a herd of elephant for the first time in their natural environment, cross a river, the young holding on to their mother’s tails was momentous....
Read More
To pick one highlight would be impossible. Having experienced three such different experiences, each with its own breath taking moment would be impossible. For me though, to see a herd of elephant for the first time in their natural environment, cross a river, the young holding on to their mother’s tails was momentous.But the fact that they looked so small because the landscape was immense was overwhelming.
I have always wanted to see the Victoria Falls and it did not disappoint, so powerful and raw.
Malawi was dreamy and beautiful, a perfect few days after so much adrenaline had been coursing through my veins. Close
I have always wanted to see the Victoria Falls and it did not disappoint, so powerful and raw.
Malawi was dreamy and beautiful, a perfect few days after so much adrenaline had been coursing through my veins. Close
Giles and Alison’s Zimbabwe, Zambia and Malawi Holiday | Giles and Alison
The Morris Family Kenya Holiday
This was the most outstanding, memorable, perfect family holiday we have ever had – and everyone of us, from the youngest child of 6 to the oldest ‘child’ of 30, we were all so blessed and inspired by what we saw, who we met, and every activity....
Read More
This was the most outstanding, memorable, perfect family holiday we have ever had – and everyone of us, from the youngest child of 6 to the oldest ‘child’ of 30, we were all so blessed and inspired by what we saw, who we met, and every activity. To have the freedom to just go out and look for game, to eat in the open-air by the river watched by monkeys, to enjoy sundowners with lions outside the car door, it doesn’t get better than this!
We have hardly any complaints – as is evidence that if we could do it all over again, we would do exactly the same!!! Richard Smith knows the very few suggestions for improvement, but they are few indeed! One additional comment: at Laikipia is that we went out with two guides, and Kicheche just one. This meant that at Laikipia we would often have a guide going far ahead of us to find the animals, so there were more possibilities for walking safaris as opposed to ‘just’ game drives. It felt a little more daring and adventurous at Laikipia – but we loved the contrast of these two venues. Close
We have hardly any complaints – as is evidence that if we could do it all over again, we would do exactly the same!!! Richard Smith knows the very few suggestions for improvement, but they are few indeed! One additional comment: at Laikipia is that we went out with two guides, and Kicheche just one. This meant that at Laikipia we would often have a guide going far ahead of us to find the animals, so there were more possibilities for walking safaris as opposed to ‘just’ game drives. It felt a little more daring and adventurous at Laikipia – but we loved the contrast of these two venues. Close
The Morris Family Kenya Holiday | The Morris Family
Barbara's safari to Botswana and Victoria Falls
My daughter and I had a wonderful experience with Letaka Safaris and would highly recommend using them for the best experience in northern Botswana. All the plans were made by Aardvark Safaris and there was not a hitch. The group we were with were from England and Europe and we were well matched with adventuresome spirits....
Read More
My daughter and I had a wonderful experience with Letaka Safaris and would highly recommend using them for the best experience in northern Botswana. All the plans were made by Aardvark Safaris and there was not a hitch. The group we were with were from England and Europe and we were well matched with adventuresome spirits. Our guide, Disho, was fabulous! Very knowledgeable about the animals and birds and where to find them. He had a great personality and sense of humor. The other 3 staff (cooks) were just as pleasant and the food was fabulous and cooked and baked over a fire! It was above and beyond our expectations. The mobile safari is the way to go because you see different animals in different parts of the country. Our accommodations were great – my daughter and I shared a tent. We were woken every morning with hot water put in a wash basins. We had our own private bathroom attached to our tent. Our shower was a bucket on a pulley system that was filled with hot water when it was time to shower. Considering we had absolutely no electricity, everything was taken care of. We were met in the afternoons with tea or juice in sugar rimmed glasses and cocktails around the fire prior to dinner. It was pure luxury. The sundowners (drinks while watching the sunset) & the tea/coffee break time mid morning were such a nice treat. Extraordinary fantastic experience!
Close
Barbara’s safari to Botswana and Victoria Falls | Barbara
Barbara's Botswana and Zambia Vacation
I thoroughly enjoyed the vacation and so did my daughter. I would recommend going to Botswana because I think that it is not nearly as populated as Kenya or Tanzania. We saw 37 different animals and reptiles and 65 different birds. It was better than expected and we had high expectations....
Read More
I thoroughly enjoyed the vacation and so did my daughter. I would recommend going to Botswana because I think that it is not nearly as populated as Kenya or Tanzania. We saw 37 different animals and reptiles and 65 different birds. It was better than expected and we had high expectations. Letaka Safaris was perfect! Our guide (Disho) was fantastic, the other staff were also very friendly. The food was fantastic and cooked over an open fire. It’s amazing what we ate! We got up early (5 or 5:30) and to bed late. Our group didn’t want to miss anything. Disho was extremely knowledgeable about the animals and where to find them. It was interesting then to go to Zambia and Victoria Falls and see another country and a little more luxury. Victoria Falls was beautiful and we got extremely wet! We loved it. The whole trip was better than expected and I would recommend it to anyone that loves the outdoors, camping, no electricity and seeing so many different animals and birds.
Close
Barbara’s Botswana and Zambia Vacation | Barbara
Bishop's School Trip to East Africa
What an experience! Traveling in a fairly large group did not prove to be a problem. The Serengeti Plains were beautiful. The drive to Musoma was rough but worth it. Lakuba Island and the village residents were warm and welcoming. The students had an especially good time, interacting with the village children....
Read More
What an experience! Traveling in a fairly large group did not prove to be a problem. The Serengeti Plains were beautiful. The drive to Musoma was rough but worth it. Lakuba Island and the village residents were warm and welcoming. The students had an especially good time, interacting with the village children. Karisia Walking Safari, as noted above, was very special. The stay at Daraja was also rewarding and allowed the students to experience how hard the girls worked to improve their lives and appreciated the basics of life. It was also good idea to fly from Nanyuki to Nairobi. The scenery from the plane was beautiful and it certainly eliminated the hassle of driving in and around Nairobi. I think what made the trip so unique and rewarding is the fact that we were not isolated from the the general citizenry. Traveling by truck and getting off the beaten path allowed us to experience not only the beauty of the wildlife but also to experience the people.
Close
Bishop’s School Trip to East Africa | Tim and Carol
Neil and Lynzee's Tanzania and Zanzibar Trip
Our stay at Beho Beho was the highlight of our trip. Great game sightings, fun day at Lake Tagalala and swimming in the hot springs of Maji Moto, beautiful sunsets and enjoying candlelit dinners in a different location each evening, our surprise bubble bath and champagne under the starlit sky....
Read More
Our stay at Beho Beho was the highlight of our trip.
Great game sightings, fun day at Lake Tagalala and swimming in the hot springs of Maji Moto, beautiful sunsets and enjoying candlelit dinners in a different location each evening, our surprise bubble bath and champagne under the starlit sky. Close
Great game sightings, fun day at Lake Tagalala and swimming in the hot springs of Maji Moto, beautiful sunsets and enjoying candlelit dinners in a different location each evening, our surprise bubble bath and champagne under the starlit sky. Close
Neil and Lynzee’s Tanzania and Zanzibar Trip | Neil and Lynzee
Noemie and Alastair's Honeymoon to Victoria Falls and Botswana
We had such an amazing experience, it was my first time on a safaris and I could not have imagined the amount of animals we saw and the level of comfort provided in the camp. We were very lucky to be the only guests during these 7 days....
Read More
We had such an amazing experience, it was my first time on a safaris and I could not have imagined the amount of animals we saw and the level of comfort provided in the camp. We were very lucky to be the only guests during these 7 days. We had a chance to lead the safari the way we wanted: waking up on time, getting ready and go without having to wait for people (the 10 days safari people were out of the camp at 7.30am while we had already been driving for an hour), also we spent lots of time tracking animals and actually getting out of the car and learning to recognise the paw print which is not usually possible with a fully loaded car, we could stay as long as we wanted watching whatever we wanted. It all felt like a very unique experience.
Chadreck, our guide, was excellent. He knew the names of all the birds, animals and plants, and not only he taught us about the prints and stool of animal, but also about the ecological system and how each individual animal has a very specific role making the whole bush environment so precious and beautiful. We had time to study animal behaviour, especially elephants and wild dogs as we saw so many of them.
We had the chance to get to know the camp staff as it was only the 6 of us on camp. I love cooking and had the chance to make my first cake in the bush with our chef Pula, such an passionate cook and we talked for hours about food during the nap time after lunch. We all went along so well and decided to have the last dinner all together. It was very sad to leave them. The organisation of the camp was spot on. The tent is big and the en-suite bathroom meant we didn’t have to brave the bush at night if we needed the toilets. We regretted the fact that it was two small beds, and not a double bed. We pushed the beds together every night to have some comfort in case a lion’s roar was a bit too close. A warm shower every day, plenty of delicious food, freshly baked bread and cake every day, refreshing drink and warm water to freshen up after each drive. It was grand luxe camping. We did Moremi and Kwai. The Moremi camp was in the middle of the bush, with nobody around us. Sitting around the fire at night and hearing no human voice was such a miracle! The Kwai camp was not as isolated and we could hear people from the nearby campsite, which wasn’t as good. However, the fact that the camp was under acacia trees, we had elephants everyday crossing the camp in front of our eyes to secure their tusks around the tree trunk and shake them one by one to collect the acacia pods (or commonly called elephant chocolate).
The Moremi reserve was the highlight of the safari trip as animals were everywhere compared to Kwai which was more quiet. The highlights of Moremi:
-Mating leopards: a very young and keen beautiful female trying to mate with a huge older male who after 10 times just couldn’t take it anymore. She was trying to seduce him with her tail caressing his neck and face, it was incredible.
-Wild dogs: we found the den of the wild dogs and saw so many different behaviours. The excitement of deciding which direction to go and hunt, they all come together and play, tumble around in the grass. The males coming back from a hunt and regurgitated food for the hungry female staying behind to feed the puppies.
-Cheetahs looking for a prey
-Lions sleeping in the grass on top of each others looking like teddy bears, nibbling at each others and rolling in the grass. Kwai highlights:
-Leopards in a tree with an Impala skin hanging from a branch
-Elephants in water
-Baby hyenas coming out of their den and playing together
In Kwai we experience different safari style: The night drives were great and we saw lots of different animals we wouldn’t see during the day, wild cats, genets and birds. The only problem about the night drive is that we had to wait from 11am until 4pm to go on the game drive, and if I wasn’t cooking with Pula, it was a very lot of waisted time. We found the Moroko canoe experience very peaceful and relaxing, but we would have preferred another walk instead. The walk was great and doing a longer one, or another one would have been even better. We learned how to approach an animal using the wind direction and proper body movement and position. Seeing an elephant on foot is a total different experience than seeing it from the car. All in all, we got lucky to be alone during the whole safari to have a real private experience, but I am sure the Letaka team would have also coped with a car full of people. The trip was excellent and we will never forget what we saw in both Moremi and Kwai.
I was expecting to see less cars than what we saw. It is hard to guess how many self drives we will encounter, but we still saw many many cars driving around at both sites, especially in Kwai. Close
We had the chance to get to know the camp staff as it was only the 6 of us on camp. I love cooking and had the chance to make my first cake in the bush with our chef Pula, such an passionate cook and we talked for hours about food during the nap time after lunch. We all went along so well and decided to have the last dinner all together. It was very sad to leave them. The organisation of the camp was spot on. The tent is big and the en-suite bathroom meant we didn’t have to brave the bush at night if we needed the toilets. We regretted the fact that it was two small beds, and not a double bed. We pushed the beds together every night to have some comfort in case a lion’s roar was a bit too close. A warm shower every day, plenty of delicious food, freshly baked bread and cake every day, refreshing drink and warm water to freshen up after each drive. It was grand luxe camping. We did Moremi and Kwai. The Moremi camp was in the middle of the bush, with nobody around us. Sitting around the fire at night and hearing no human voice was such a miracle! The Kwai camp was not as isolated and we could hear people from the nearby campsite, which wasn’t as good. However, the fact that the camp was under acacia trees, we had elephants everyday crossing the camp in front of our eyes to secure their tusks around the tree trunk and shake them one by one to collect the acacia pods (or commonly called elephant chocolate).
The Moremi reserve was the highlight of the safari trip as animals were everywhere compared to Kwai which was more quiet. The highlights of Moremi:
-Mating leopards: a very young and keen beautiful female trying to mate with a huge older male who after 10 times just couldn’t take it anymore. She was trying to seduce him with her tail caressing his neck and face, it was incredible.
-Wild dogs: we found the den of the wild dogs and saw so many different behaviours. The excitement of deciding which direction to go and hunt, they all come together and play, tumble around in the grass. The males coming back from a hunt and regurgitated food for the hungry female staying behind to feed the puppies.
-Cheetahs looking for a prey
-Lions sleeping in the grass on top of each others looking like teddy bears, nibbling at each others and rolling in the grass. Kwai highlights:
-Leopards in a tree with an Impala skin hanging from a branch
-Elephants in water
-Baby hyenas coming out of their den and playing together
In Kwai we experience different safari style: The night drives were great and we saw lots of different animals we wouldn’t see during the day, wild cats, genets and birds. The only problem about the night drive is that we had to wait from 11am until 4pm to go on the game drive, and if I wasn’t cooking with Pula, it was a very lot of waisted time. We found the Moroko canoe experience very peaceful and relaxing, but we would have preferred another walk instead. The walk was great and doing a longer one, or another one would have been even better. We learned how to approach an animal using the wind direction and proper body movement and position. Seeing an elephant on foot is a total different experience than seeing it from the car. All in all, we got lucky to be alone during the whole safari to have a real private experience, but I am sure the Letaka team would have also coped with a car full of people. The trip was excellent and we will never forget what we saw in both Moremi and Kwai.
I was expecting to see less cars than what we saw. It is hard to guess how many self drives we will encounter, but we still saw many many cars driving around at both sites, especially in Kwai. Close
Noemie and Alastair’s Honeymoon to Victoria Falls and Botswana | Noemie and Alastair
Our Family (which included three grown sons) took this adventure together and could never have realized all we would experience in such a short amount of time. We started at the beautiful Tongabezi Lodge in Zambia, a visit to their local school, cruises on the River, a safari through a National Park and even a trip to Victoria Falls....
Read More
Our Family (which included three grown sons) took this adventure together and could never have realized all we would experience in such a short amount of time. We started at the beautiful Tongabezi Lodge in Zambia, a visit to their local school, cruises on the River, a safari through a National Park and even a trip to Victoria Falls.
Then on to Botswana for our safari. We stayed at the Linyanti Ebony Camp which housed us in tents that far exceeded our expectations. Each day brought us new close up encounters with elephants, giraffes, zebra, impala, lion and many other animals. Being immersed into the middle of the African bush on our safari gave us such a close look at so many animals. The truth we came away with is that they have a familial system that resembles ours in a lot of respects. When we happened upon a group of elephants cooling off at a mud hole they immediately trumpeted and circled their young for protection, until they were convinced we were there for “just a look”. It was amazing! Highlights of our safari included seeing the elephants at the mud hole and hearing their trumpeting and watching them circle their young right in front of us. Learning about what they were trying to tell us with their movements and seeing them in action. Hearing the elephants in the camp during the night as they made their way to the water, yet feeling safe (my personal highlight). Seeing the elusive leopard, the nearly extinct white rhino and the many, many kinds of birds. Getting a flat tire after we had just spotted the Lion we were trailing–Yikes! Enjoying the beautiful sunsets and a glass of wine while on safari. Being so so close to all these amazing animals. All of our experiences were wonderful. I cannot think of one thing I would have changed or one low at all. Memories of our trip will always bring a smile to me.
Then on to Cape Town where we went to Table Mountain (lucky enough to have a day that was clear and sunny up there), took a walking and riding tour in the city, visited their natural history museum, and ate at a local African restaurant where we tried impala, kudu, and a few other local delicacies which were delish. Our guide, Charles, took great care of us and even took us up to the Winelands where we enjoyed yet another delicious meal at a local winery. My Husband and our sons ended our trip by going on a shark dive off the Southern tip at a place they call “shark alley”. They encountered them alright, up close and personal, and I enjoyed HEARING all about it. It was one of the highlights for them. This Trip was remarkable, and made so through the expert planning of Victoria of Aardvark Safaris. She was so in tune with the kind of trip we wanted and so patient with my myriad of questions and concerns. I felt we were well informed and ready when we boarded the plane for what turned out to be out trip of a lifetime. So many Thanks go out to her.
Close
| The Andrus Family
Rachel and Barry's Uganda and Rwanda Holiday
A truly amaaaaaazing holiday….packed with unforgettable experiences.
Uganda and Rwanda are both so stunningly beautiful. Rwanda is truly inspiring in how it is ‘re-building’ after the Genocide in 1994 – very special people – very humbling experience spending time with them and visiting the Genocide Museum in Kigali.... Read More
Uganda and Rwanda are both so stunningly beautiful. Rwanda is truly inspiring in how it is ‘re-building’ after the Genocide in 1994 – very special people – very humbling experience spending time with them and visiting the Genocide Museum in Kigali.... Read More
A truly amaaaaaazing holiday….packed with unforgettable experiences.
Uganda and Rwanda are both so stunningly beautiful. Rwanda is truly inspiring in how it is ‘re-building’ after the Genocide in 1994 – very special people – very humbling experience spending time with them and visiting the Genocide Museum in Kigali.
Every one of our 11 days was packed with highlights…but if we had to single just one out – it would have to be both treks to see the mountain gorillas……..such beautiful, gentle giants…..we’ll never forget our time with them!
Vincent, our guide, was brilliant – so knowledgeable…he seems to know everyone throughout Uganda and Rwanda! Our every question was always answered! Vincent took care of everything….and made sure we always got the very best view/photo opportunity. He played a huge part in us having such an amaaaazing experience! Close
Uganda and Rwanda are both so stunningly beautiful. Rwanda is truly inspiring in how it is ‘re-building’ after the Genocide in 1994 – very special people – very humbling experience spending time with them and visiting the Genocide Museum in Kigali.
Every one of our 11 days was packed with highlights…but if we had to single just one out – it would have to be both treks to see the mountain gorillas……..such beautiful, gentle giants…..we’ll never forget our time with them!
Vincent, our guide, was brilliant – so knowledgeable…he seems to know everyone throughout Uganda and Rwanda! Our every question was always answered! Vincent took care of everything….and made sure we always got the very best view/photo opportunity. He played a huge part in us having such an amaaaazing experience! Close
Rachel and Barry’s Uganda and Rwanda Holiday | Rachel and Barry
I had a wonderful, wonderful trip. If it wasn’t for the travel time I
would go back again in a flash. The two gentleman who met us in
Johannesburg at the airport and got us through immigration and on to our
domestic flight were very helpful. Everyon... Read More
would go back again in a flash. The two gentleman who met us in
Johannesburg at the airport and got us through immigration and on to our
domestic flight were very helpful. Everyon... Read More
I had a wonderful, wonderful trip. If it wasn’t for the travel time I
would go back again in a flash. The two gentleman who met us in
Johannesburg at the airport and got us through immigration and on to our
domestic flight were very helpful. Everyone we met along the way was
very helpful and knowledgeable. The camps each different and their
staffs made us feel right at home. The meals were all very good. The
salads and fresh vegetables were amazing considering the had to truck
their supplies in on a weekly basis. The guides and trackers were all
very well informed and answered all our questions and stopped for photos
when we asked. I couldn’t think of a better way to spend my birthday.
Thank you for setting up this wonderful trip. I will recommend
Aardvark to anyone thinking of an African adventure. Close
would go back again in a flash. The two gentleman who met us in
Johannesburg at the airport and got us through immigration and on to our
domestic flight were very helpful. Everyone we met along the way was
very helpful and knowledgeable. The camps each different and their
staffs made us feel right at home. The meals were all very good. The
salads and fresh vegetables were amazing considering the had to truck
their supplies in on a weekly basis. The guides and trackers were all
very well informed and answered all our questions and stopped for photos
when we asked. I couldn’t think of a better way to spend my birthday.
Thank you for setting up this wonderful trip. I will recommend
Aardvark to anyone thinking of an African adventure. Close
| Margaret
Our Family (which included three grown sons) took this adventure together and could never have realized all we would experience in such a short amount of time. We started at the beautiful Tongabezi Lodge in Zambia, a visit to their local school, cruises on the River, a safari through a National Park and even a trip to Victoria Falls....
Read More
Our Family (which included three grown sons) took this adventure together and could never have realized all we would experience in such a short amount of time. We started at the beautiful Tongabezi Lodge in Zambia, a visit to their local school, cruises on the River, a safari through a National Park and even a trip to Victoria Falls.
Then on to Botswana for our Safari. We stayed at the Linyanti Ebony Camp which housed us in tents that far exceeded our expectations. Each day brought us new close up encounters with elephants, giraffes, zebra, impala, lion and many other animals. Being immersed into the middle of the African bush on our Safari gave us such a close look at so many animals. The truth we came away with is that they have a familial system that resembles ours in a lot of respects. When we happened upon a group of elephants cooling off at a mud hole they immediately trumpeted and circled their young for protection, until they were convinced we were there for “just a look”. It was amazing! Highlights of our safari included seeing the elephants at the mud hole and hearing their trumpeting and watching them circle their young right in front of us. Learning about what they were trying to tell us with their movements and seeing them in action. Hearing the elephants in the camp during the night as they made their way to the water, yet feeling safe (my personal highlight). Seeing the elusive leopard, the nearly extinct White Rhino and the many, many kinds of birds. Getting a flat tire after we had just spotted the Lion we were trailing–Yikes! Enjoying the beautiful sunsets and a glass of wine while on safari. Being so so close to all these amazing animals. All of our experiences were wonderful. I cannot think of one thing I would have changed or one low at all. Memories of our trip will always bring a smile to me.
Then on to Cape Town where we went to Table Mountain (lucky enough to have a day that was clear and sunny up there), took a walking and riding tour in the city, visited their natural history museum, and ate at a local African restaurant where we tried impala, kudu, and a few other local delicacies which were delish. Our guide, Charles, took great care of us and even took us up to the Winelands where we enjoyed yet another delicious meal at a local winery. My Husband and our sons ended our trip by going on a shark dive off the Southern tip at a place they call “shark alley”. They encountered them alright, up close and personal, and I enjoyed HEARING all about it. It was one of the highlights for them. This Trip was remarkable, and made so through the expert planning of Victoria of Aardvark Safaris. She was so in tune with the kind of trip we wanted and so patient with my myriad of questions and concerns. I felt we were well informed and ready when we boarded the plane for what turned out to be out trip of a lifetime. So many Thanks go out to her.
Close
| The Andrus Family
A truly amaaaaaazing holiday….packed with unforgettable experiences. Uganda and Rwanda are both so stunningly beautiful. Rwanda is truly inspiring in how it is ‘re-building’ after the Genocide in 1994 – very special people – very humbling experience spe...
Read More
A truly amaaaaaazing holiday….packed with unforgettable experiences. Uganda and Rwanda are both so stunningly beautiful. Rwanda is truly inspiring in how it is ‘re-building’ after the Genocide in 1994 – very special people – very humbling experience spending time with them and visiting the Genocide Museum in Kigali. Every one of our 11 days was packed with highlights…but if we had to single just one out – it would have to be both treks to see the Mountain Gorillas……..such beautiful, gentle giants…..we’ll never forget our time with them! Vincent, our guide, was brilliant – so knowledgeable…he seems to know everyone throughout Uganda and Rwanda! Our every question was always answered! Vincent took care of everything….and made sure we always got the very best view/photo opportunity. He played a huge part in us having such an amaaaazing experience!
Close
| Rachel and Barry
Sanjay's Botswana and Zambia Vacation
From pick up at Maun through to the final night stay at The River Club, my experience with Wilderness Migration Routes was nothing less than spectacular.I had the good fortune of being aided throughout my adventure by a jovial and knowledgeable guide (Mr Emanuel) who took great pains to ensure the needs of my group were met on a daily basis....
Read More
From pick up at Maun through to the final night stay at The River Club, my experience with Wilderness Migration Routes was nothing less than spectacular.
I had the good fortune of being aided throughout my adventure by a jovial and knowledgeable guide (Mr Emanuel) who took great pains to ensure the needs of my group were met on a daily basis. Having formerly worked in Botswana’s anti-poaching unit, the respect Emanuel harbored for nature and it’s conservation was evident. Our game drives were laden with anecdotes of encounters with wild animals, growing up in the Kalahari and the historical footprint of the San people, all while keeping a watchful eye on our surroundings to ensure no rare sightings would be missed. Emanuel’s unique sense of humor and roaring laughter left a lasting impression with our group and I look upon my time spent with him with great fondness. Wilderness as an organization itself appeared well put-together. At each camp we would be welcomed by the sweet song of the female staff, big smiles across the board and unrelenting attention to our every comfort – be it a special meal request or a need to hydrate. They really put their guests first at all times. What I really enjoyed most however were the evenings spent huddled around the camp fire (affectionately referred to as ‘Bush TV’) where the staff would often ease up on their dutiful obligations and take time to forge real friendships with us, exhibiting equal curiosity into western customs and traditions. I recall how one of the members of staff at Xigera went above-and-beyond to boat 2 hours across the Okavango Delta to return the laptop I had accidentally left behind at camp (which I was so sure I had lost for good as I ventured onwards to Khwai!). On another occasion in Khwai whilst on a game drive with Emanuel and his trusty sidekick Mr Onks, we encountered two flat tires. Wilderness thankfully came to our rescue and provided us with sanctuary at the luxurious Banoka Eco-Lodge as they arranged for another vehicle. Overall I would pinpoint the professionalism of Wilderness and their spirited staff as two of the key reasons why I will one day return to Botswana!
For me the highlights included:
– Relaxing mokoro rides through the Okavango floodplains, experiencing all manner of flower and fauna with astute narrative provided by the guides of Xigera camp
– Sampling various local cuisines (i.e. sadza, babotie) at each camp. In fact the food never stopped coming and there were frequent moments of over-indulgence! On one particular game drive through Linyanti our nostrils were stung by the foul stench of death. On investigation we discovered the carcass of a hippopotamus being feasted upon by a lioness. Over the course of the next 2 days she was joined by her sexually charged mate who snapped momentarily and charged at an adjacent vehicle. The adrenalin rush was exhilarating
– Performing a tribal dance with my Kalahari bushman friend Xukuri in Linyanti – click here to see the video of my dance!
– Leopard sightings. These creatures were breathtaking. Dinner with Peter Jones at the River Club (Zambia). It was certainly an entertaining evening!
– Helicopter ride over Vic Falls
If there is one thing I would have enjoyed more is the presence of more young people in my group. The three other members were all in their 60s and retired but we still managed to get along just fine. Not a criticism at all. If I book again through Aardvark I would probably just be more inquisitive over who else had signed up for the tour. Close
– Relaxing mokoro rides through the Okavango floodplains, experiencing all manner of flower and fauna with astute narrative provided by the guides of Xigera camp
– Sampling various local cuisines (i.e. sadza, babotie) at each camp. In fact the food never stopped coming and there were frequent moments of over-indulgence! On one particular game drive through Linyanti our nostrils were stung by the foul stench of death. On investigation we discovered the carcass of a hippopotamus being feasted upon by a lioness. Over the course of the next 2 days she was joined by her sexually charged mate who snapped momentarily and charged at an adjacent vehicle. The adrenalin rush was exhilarating
– Performing a tribal dance with my Kalahari bushman friend Xukuri in Linyanti – click here to see the video of my dance!
– Leopard sightings. These creatures were breathtaking. Dinner with Peter Jones at the River Club (Zambia). It was certainly an entertaining evening!
– Helicopter ride over Vic Falls
If there is one thing I would have enjoyed more is the presence of more young people in my group. The three other members were all in their 60s and retired but we still managed to get along just fine. Not a criticism at all. If I book again through Aardvark I would probably just be more inquisitive over who else had signed up for the tour. Close
Sanjay’s Botswana and Zambia Vacation | Sanjay
Rwanda and South Africa Vacation
A trip of a lifetime. Gorilla treks were superb. I recommend at least two treks so different gorilla families can be compared plus the volcanic regions were different. Kigali and surrounding countrysides are very clean. Guides are first rate and knowledgeable....
Read More
A trip of a lifetime. Gorilla treks were superb. I recommend at least two treks so different gorilla families can be compared plus the volcanic regions were different. Kigali and surrounding countrysides are very clean. Guides are first rate and knowledgeable.
Close
Herb Rwanda and South Africa Vacation | Herb
Robin's East Africa Vacation
My first real safari in Africa. I have been on short ‘safaris’ in Sri Lanka and India which I very much enjoyed because we were trekking on foot or elephant and therefore less noisy than by vehicle, but here with the distances involved (and safety) the vehicle was essential....
Read More
My first real safari in Africa. I have been on short ‘safaris’ in Sri Lanka and India which I very much enjoyed because we were trekking on foot or elephant and therefore less noisy than by vehicle, but here with the distances involved (and safety) the vehicle was essential. I have also done primary biological field work in India and Malaysia, so I know what’s involved in slogging through tropical jungle terrain. The temperate climate and the wide sweeping vistas containing so much wildlife at Lewa was a revelation to me.
Highlights: difficult to pick from so many. 1.5 hours watching a lion stalking zebras although she had more patience than we did and didn’t attack; seeing what are rarities elsewhere: black rhino, Grevy’s zebra; so much bird life.
Visiting the forest was an interesting change from the savannah; the canopy walk was nice but not really a highlight. Close
Highlights: difficult to pick from so many. 1.5 hours watching a lion stalking zebras although she had more patience than we did and didn’t attack; seeing what are rarities elsewhere: black rhino, Grevy’s zebra; so much bird life.
Visiting the forest was an interesting change from the savannah; the canopy walk was nice but not really a highlight. Close
Robin’s East Africa Vacation | Robin
Linda's Rwanda and South Africa Vacation
In Kigali we visited the local Inema Art gallery and met artist Emmanuel Nkuranga who founded the art center. There is a small gift shop located inside the gallery. We also visited the Kigali Genocide Memorial and from there went to the local craft mark where we purchased gifts....
Read More
In Kigali we visited the local Inema Art gallery and met artist Emmanuel Nkuranga who founded the art center. There is a small gift shop located inside the gallery. We also visited the Kigali Genocide Memorial and from there went to the local craft market where we purchased gifts. Of course, the Virunga Lodge and gorilla trek in the Parc National des Volcans was a highlight of this trip. Vincent was a perfect guide for this trip. I even ventured to the Congo Rwanda border in the border town of Lake Kivu. Seeing how the locals make coal, brew beer, harvest wood, grow numerous vegetables and fruit was also a highlight of this trip.
All in all, Aardvark did a great job and we had a terrific trip. Close
All in all, Aardvark did a great job and we had a terrific trip. Close
Linda’s Rwanda and South Africa Vacation | Linda
We truly loved our trip! Victoria was very instrumental in it being so well planned. We began our trip in Zambia with a stay at the River Club. It was an incredibly beautiful resort with wonderful staff. It would have been perfect to stay for 2 nights whi...
Read More
We truly loved our trip! Victoria was very instrumental in it being so well planned. We began our trip in Zambia with a stay at the River Club. It was an incredibly beautiful resort with wonderful staff. It would have been perfect to stay for 2 nights which would have allowed us to see Victoria Falls by helicopter and on foot, as well as to have lunch on Livingstone Island with a visit to Devil’s Pool. However, our flight delay forced us to sacrifice one adventure, so we were not able to visit Livingstone Island or Devil’s Pool. We spent a little time walking the grounds, which were immaculately manicured and gorgeous. We did enjoy an amazing helicopter ride over the falls, a beautiful sundowner boat trip on the Zambezi, and a very informative walk of the falls with a quick tour of downtown Livingstone on our way to the airport. (We really needed to stay that extra night we missed! Bummer!)
After having to abort a landing due to a herd of elephants on the airstrip(which actually was pretty cool), we landed safely and were met by a Jeep from Linyanti. After about a 45 minute drive we reached camp where we were greeted with a song from the staff, a cold towel, and a nice refreshing drink. Our guide, Wina, was incredible. He made sure we saw as many animals as possible with many “up close and personal” meetings with elephants which were everywhere and amazing! It was a magical experience to be around so many of these awesome animals. One elephant sprayed us to stay back when we got too close to a mom and her baby, we were woken up in the middle of the night as one munched on a tree right beside our tent, and one came so close too our Jeep it almost touched us. The staff at Linyanti were very special. Ollie and Kirstie, the managers, were so fun that spending time at camp was just as fun as going out on safari. We were very sad to leave. (We did find it very hot in the tents in the afternoons. They did have generators and some electricity so it would have been nice to have a fan in each tent to help with the heat and the bugs. Little bugs can get through the mosquito netting.)
Our next stop, Kwara, was a bit of an upgrade from Linyanti, as far as comfort and food goes. We were able to see some of the animals that we did not see at Linyanti like cheetah and wild dogs. We went on a boat trip, a mokoro ride among the hippos, a nature walk and several game drives. The guides were very professional and knowledgeable. We were met one morning by a huge male elephant on our way to breakfast. Our guide, TJ, came to our rescue! I think after 6-7 nights out on safari, I really needed an air conditioned room and a proper shower. We loved every minute at Kwara, though, and wouldn’t have changed a thing. (We found the water to be very high in minerals so when taking a shower it was a little difficult to feel clean. Also, we couldn’t send anything white to the laundry because of the water.)
We were met at the airport in Cape Town by Charles, our guide for the next 5 days. He was wonderful and very accommodating even though at times I had to have him repeat himself as his accent was quite heavy. He was a wealth of information and we really felt like we got to know him as a person, not just as our guide. We really enjoyed his company. Our hotel, Kensington Place, was unbelievable. The staff were the friendliest and most helpful we have ever seen. We loved our bottle of complementary wine and, after 32 years of marriage, we found it to be a bottle of wine we both enjoyed. They even gave us two bottles to take home with us. Charles took us everywhere. We went to Robben Island, down the Cape to Hermanus and Cape Point with a stop at a winery on the way. We loved the penguins in Simonstown. They were hysterical to watch. He helped us find some delicious places to eat as well as helped me with my bartering in GreenMarket where I spent quite a bit of time. He delighted in sharing his home town of Stellenbosch with us, too. He was always on time and always available to us. He made our trip to Cape Town very special. We were very happy that we made Cape Town our last stop otherwise we would not have been able to bring home souvenirs and wine due to the luggage limitations. (FYI Our luggage was never weighed on any of the small flights we took.)
Our last night was spent in the wine lands. Our regret was that we did not stay there for two nights. Le Quartier Francais was a hidden treasure. After our dinner, we were met by a roaring fire in the fireplace. It was beautiful and the grounds were lovely to walk through. Even though the drive from Cape Town to the wine lands was only an hour, we stopped at a couple of wineries and had a tour of Stellenbosch. We did not get to the hotel until after 3 pm and we had very little time to walk around Franschhoek. We would highly recommend two nights in the winelands. We would have gone out the next day and toured several more wineries and spent more time in Stellenbosch. We didn’t feel we were able to sample enough of the wineries. However, being golfers, we really enjoyed Ernie Els’ place. All in all, it was an incredible two weeks. We are so thankful to Victoria for organizing everything so wonderfully. We hope someday soon to go back to Africa again.
Close
| David and Karen
The Hanks Family Vacation to Kenya
From being picked up in Nairobi to being delivered at Masai Mara we couldn’t have asked for better service and care. The wildlife was incredibly plentiful and way exceeded our expectations....
Read More
From being picked up in Nairobi to being delivered at Masai Mara we couldn’t have asked for better service and care. The wildlife was incredibly plentiful and way exceeded our expectations.
Close
The Hanks Family Vacation to Kenya | The Hanks Family
We truly loved our trip! Victoria was very instrumental in it being so well planned. We began our trip in Zambia with a stay at the River Club. It was an incredibly beautiful resort with wonderful staff. It would have been perfect to stay for 2 nights whi...
Read More
We truly loved our trip! Victoria was very instrumental in it being so well planned. We began our trip in Zambia with a stay at the River Club. It was an incredibly beautiful resort with wonderful staff. It would have been perfect to stay for 2 nights which would have allowed us to see Victoria Falls by helicopter and on foot, as well as to have lunch on Livingstone Island with a visit to Devil’s Pool. However, our flight delay forced us to sacrifice one adventure, so we were not able to visit Livingstone Island or Devil’s Pool. We spent a little time walking the grounds, which were immaculately manicured and gorgeous. We did enjoy an amazing helicopter ride over the falls, a beautiful sundowner boat trip on the Zambezi, and a very informative walk of the falls with a quick tour of downtown Livingstone on our way to the airport. (We really needed to stay that extra night we missed! Bummer!)
After having to abort a landing due to a herd of elephants on the airstrip(which actually was pretty cool), we landed safely and were met by a Jeep from Linyanti. After about a 45 minute drive we reached camp where we were greeted with a song from the staff, a cold towel, and a nice refreshing drink. Our guide, Wina, was incredible. He made sure we saw as many animals as possible with many “up close and personal” meetings with elephants which were everywhere and amazing! It was a magical experience to be around so many of these awesome animals. One elephant sprayed us to stay back when we got too close to a mom and her baby, we were woken up in the middle of the night as one munched on a tree right beside our tent, and one came so close too our Jeep it almost touched us. The staff at Linyanti were very special. Ollie and Kirstie, the managers, were so fun that spending time at camp was just as fun as going out on safari. We were very sad to leave. (We did find it very hot in the tents in the afternoons. They did have generators and some electricity so it would have been nice to have a fan in each tent to help with the heat and the bugs. Little bugs can get through the mosquito netting.)
Our next stop, Kwara, was a bit of an upgrade from Linyanti, as far as comfort and food goes. We were able to see some of the animals that we did not see at Linyanti like cheetah and wild dogs. We went on a boat trip, a mokoro ride among the hippos, a nature walk and several game drives. The guides were very professional and knowledgeable. We were met one morning by a huge male elephant on our way to breakfast. Our guide, TJ, came to our rescue! I think after 6-7 nights out on safari, I really needed an air conditioned room and a proper shower. We loved every minute at Kwara, though, and wouldn’t have changed a thing. (We found the water to be very high in minerals so when taking a shower it was a little difficult to feel clean. Also, we couldn’t send anything white to the laundry because of the water.)
We were met at the airport in Cape Town by Charles, our guide for the next 5 days. He was wonderful and very accommodating even though at times I had to have him repeat himself as his accent was quite heavy. He was a wealth of information and we really felt like we got to know him as a person, not just as our guide. We really enjoyed his company. Our hotel, Kensington Place, was unbelievable. The staff were the friendliest and most helpful we have ever seen. We loved our bottle of complementary wine and, after 32 years of marriage, we found it to be a bottle of wine we both enjoyed. They even gave us two bottles to take home with us. Charles took us everywhere. We went to Robben Island, down the Cape to Hermanus and Cape Point with a stop at a winery on the way. We loved the penguins in Simonstown. They were hysterical to watch. He helped us find some delicious places to eat as well as helped me with my bartering in GreenMarket where I spent quite a bit of time. He delighted in sharing his home town of Stellenbosch with us, too. He was always on time and always available to us. He made our trip to Cape Town very special. We were very happy that we made Cape Town our last stop otherwise we would not have been able to bring home souvenirs and wine due to the luggage limitations. (FYI Our luggage was never weighed on any of the small flights we took.)
Our last night was spent in the wine lands. Our regret was that we did not stay there for two nights. Le Quartier Francais was a hidden treasure. After our dinner, we were met by a roaring fire in the fireplace. It was beautiful and the grounds were lovely to walk through. Even though the drive from Cape Town to the wine lands was only an hour, we stopped at a couple of wineries and had a tour of Stellenbosch. We did not get to the hotel until after 3 pm and we had very little time to walk around Franschhoek. We would highly recommend two nights in the winelands. We would have gone out the next day and toured several more wineries and spent more time in Stellenbosch. We didn’t feel we were able to sample enough of the wineries. However, being golfers, we really enjoyed Ernie Els’ place. All in all, it was an incredible two weeks. We are so thankful to Victoria for organizing everything so wonderfully. We hope someday soon to go back to Africa again.
Close
| David and Karen
It was PERFECT. We had been a touch nervous about being too tired for an energetic safari… No need for this – it was ideal for a honeymoon! We were early to rise every morning, but watching wildlife from a jeep / boat is plenty relaxing enough....
Read More
It was PERFECT. We had been a touch nervous about being too tired for an energetic safari… No need for this – it was ideal for a honeymoon! We were early to rise every morning, but watching wildlife from a jeep / boat is plenty relaxing enough. Every day we had plenty of down time for sun and R&R from 11 – 3.30. Then in bed by 9.30 most evenings! Zambia is fantastic – such friendly people, and by all appearances a very strong and healthy economy… never mind the phenomenal wildlife and relatively unknown reserves. The trip to Kaya Mawa, on Likoma Island was a bonus – beach time, diving, more delicious food.
Close
| Nick and Aimee
Norman, Allison and Lucy's Botswana riding safari
The safari was fantastically organised right from the moment we landed in South Africa. We were met by the driver at the airport and driven to Botswana where we were met by our guide for the week. He made sure we got through the border control properly and then took us to meet our horses....
Read More
The safari was fantastically organised right from the moment we landed in South Africa. We were met by the driver at the airport and driven to Botswana where we were met by our guide for the week. He made sure we got through the border control properly and then took us to meet our horses. The horses were matched to the riders using the information we provided before departure but you had an opportunity to change your horse at any time during the week if you wanted to (I kept my horse – Denis – as he was a total sweetheart and a lot of fun to ride). The staff at the camps worked amazingly hard to make sure everything was set up before our arrival at each different camp and nothing seemed too much bother if we wanted anything. The camps were very well set up with hot showers at each of them and more food than you could hope to eat. We even had hot water bottles in the beds at night. I don’t generally do camping but this was not camping as I have ever known it in the past!!
The riding was fantastic. As we started early in the morning we
finished by about 1 or 2 pm when it was beginning to get pretty warm.
The horses were very well schooled and well cared for by the grooms. We
were very lucky as we saw a huge variety of animals including lions
(cubs as well), hyena, crocodiles and elephants while riding on a
variety of terrain. We managed to get pretty close to most of the
animals, either on horseback or when in the Jeep as part of the Jeep
safari one evening. The instruction given by the guides was excellent
and I never felt as though I was in any danger. Close
finished by about 1 or 2 pm when it was beginning to get pretty warm.
The horses were very well schooled and well cared for by the grooms. We
were very lucky as we saw a huge variety of animals including lions
(cubs as well), hyena, crocodiles and elephants while riding on a
variety of terrain. We managed to get pretty close to most of the
animals, either on horseback or when in the Jeep as part of the Jeep
safari one evening. The instruction given by the guides was excellent
and I never felt as though I was in any danger. Close
Norman, Allison and Lucy’s Botswana riding safari | Norman, Allison and Lucy
Rudy and Teresa's Vacation to Zambia and Botswana
The only low was South African Airways service was terrible and the delay out of Senegal made us miss our connection in Dulles but nothing Aardvark could do about that except maybe encourage your clients not to fly South African. The highlights are too many to count but I must say the guide at Letaka, Joe Ramsden, was first class....
Read More
The only low was South African Airways service was terrible and the delay out of Senegal made us miss our connection in Dulles but nothing Aardvark could do about that except maybe encourage your clients not to fly South African. The highlights are too many to count but I must say the guide at Letaka, Joe Ramsden, was first class. Knowledgeable; friendly and very patient with all us city people. His crew were great and it was amazing what they accomplished over an open camp fire. Victoria Falls was just a bit of a disappointment because there was so much mist from the water volume, it was difficult to see the falls. That being said, I still think it a perfect end (or beginning) to a safari and staying at Thorntree makes it all the more special.
Close
Rudy and Teresa’s Vacation to Zambia and Botswana | Rudy and Teresa
Ruth's Vacation to Zimbabwe and Botswana
Overall, the trip was fantastic.
We experienced so many things and got to see a large part of northern Botswana.
If I were to do it again, I think I’d probably want to stay longer at each camp site. Only having one full day at each site probably was a bit too short. But it is a trade off of trying to see more areas with the amount of timemoney we had.... Read More
We experienced so many things and got to see a large part of northern Botswana.
If I were to do it again, I think I’d probably want to stay longer at each camp site. Only having one full day at each site probably was a bit too short. But it is a trade off of trying to see more areas with the amount of timemoney we had.... Read More
Overall, the trip was fantastic.
We experienced so many things and got to see a large part of northern Botswana.
If I were to do it again, I think I’d probably want to stay longer at each camp site. Only having one full day at each site probably was a bit too short. But it is a trade off of trying to see more areas with the amount of timemoney we had. Close
We experienced so many things and got to see a large part of northern Botswana.
If I were to do it again, I think I’d probably want to stay longer at each camp site. Only having one full day at each site probably was a bit too short. But it is a trade off of trying to see more areas with the amount of timemoney we had. Close
Ruth’s Vacation to Zimbabwe and Botswana | Ruth
Ruth's safari to Botswana and Victoria Falls
If I could give a rating higher then 5 paws, I would.The camp was very organized. Annelies was extremely welcoming and very approachable. We had great conversation around the fire and at dinner....
Read More
If I could give a rating higher then 5 paws, I would.
The camp was very organized. Annelies was extremely welcoming and very approachable.
We had great conversation around the fire and at dinner.
The meals provided were incredible, it’s amazing what can be done on an open fire. Close
The camp was very organized. Annelies was extremely welcoming and very approachable.
We had great conversation around the fire and at dinner.
The meals provided were incredible, it’s amazing what can be done on an open fire. Close
Ruth’s safari to Botswana and Victoria Falls | Ruth
Peter's Zimbabwe and Botswana Vacation
Out of the 6 of us, five are seasoned safari-goers. Everyone was impressed with what we saw, where we stayed, what we ate, etc. This trip exceeded our expectations....
Read More
Out of the 6 of us, five are seasoned safari-goers. Everyone was impressed with what we saw, where we stayed, what we ate, etc. This trip exceeded our expectations.
Close
Peter’s Zimbabwe and Botswana Vacation | Peter
Peter's safari to Botswana and Victoria Falls
Peter’s safari to Botswana and Victoria Falls | Peter
Mario and Gill's Holiday to the Congo
Mario and Gill’s Holiday to the Congo | Mario and Gill
Vanessa and Sophie's Holiday to Zambia and Botswana
Vanessa and Sophie’s Holiday to Zambia and Botswana | Vanessa and Sophie
The Funk Family Holiday to South Africa
We spent 8 hours per day in the bush, which meant we saw so many incredible things. Even at the Homestead we saw so much animal life just lazing on the porch. Highlights: huge herd of elephants with male on musk who took a fancy to our vehicle, drove around a corner straight into a pride of lions...
Read More
We spent 8 hours per day in the bush, which meant we saw so many incredible things. Even at the Homestead we saw so much animal life just lazing on the porch.
Highlights: huge herd of elephants with male on musk who took a fancy to our vehicle, drove around a corner straight into a pride of lions, seeing huge leopard for first time, changing tyre in the bush in the middle of the night, spending an hour watching lion cubs playing with an impala leg – hilarious, running into a crocodile in the middle of the road at night.
We would recommend a trip to Emdoneni cat sanctuary, arranged by Phinda. Very memorable. Close
Highlights: huge herd of elephants with male on musk who took a fancy to our vehicle, drove around a corner straight into a pride of lions, seeing huge leopard for first time, changing tyre in the bush in the middle of the night, spending an hour watching lion cubs playing with an impala leg – hilarious, running into a crocodile in the middle of the road at night.
We would recommend a trip to Emdoneni cat sanctuary, arranged by Phinda. Very memorable. Close
The Funk Family Holiday to South Africa | The Funk Family
Celia's Botswana Holiday
Africa is therapeutic. The colour, the light, the sound, the smell. There is always something to see. Wilderness safaris are high end and well worth the money. Transfers are slick and worry free. All camps work to a standard which ensures quality....
Read More
Africa is therapeutic. The colour, the light, the sound, the smell. There is always something to see. Wilderness safaris are high end and well worth the money. Transfers are slick and worry free. All camps work to a standard which ensures quality. My highlights were seeing hippo out of water, a leopard cub and four lion on a giraffe kill. The ethic of the country is unquestioned. With strong Presidential support to preserve its wildlife and to keep money in the country is to be commended. Poaching is low. Jobs are given to local people. I keep going back.
Close
Celia’s Botswana Holiday | Celia
Kate's Kenyan Safari
My whole safari experience was more than I could have ever imagined. Some highlights included eating breakfast out in the bush and having elephants join me just across the river, seeing leopards mating, and going to the Sheldrick Elephant Trust....
Read More
My whole safari experience was more than I could have ever imagined. Some highlights included eating breakfast out in the bush and having elephants join me just across the river, seeing leopards mating, and going to the Sheldrick Elephant Trust. But overall, there was not one minute that I could say that I wasn’t having the time of my life. I was slightly nervous to travel alone, but I wasn’t alone between the awesome staff and the amazing people I met along the way,
Close
Kate’s Kenyan Safari | Kate
Sophie's Botswana Riding Safari
***** If I could, I would give my trip **********. I loved every minute of it. The staff were so friendly and made us feel like part of a big family. There were so many surprises, which were just so special, having the horses taken from you at 7pm at night when we were met by the grooms in the middle of the bush...
Read More
***** If I could, I would give my trip **********. I loved every minute of it. The staff were so friendly and made us feel like part of a big family. There were so many surprises, which were just so special, having the horses taken from you at 7pm at night when we were met by the grooms in the middle of the bush, where we found dinner all laid out, even with candelabras, pizza cooked in a termite mound, wine, great company and eaten under the stars in the middle of nowhere was so unreal.
If you didn’t want to do an evening ride, you could have gone on a game drive instead, we even went fishing, which was a 1st, but very entertaining, beware of the leeches! The food was fantastic, what was a great idea, was having a seating plan each evening, so you got to know everyone. The tents were always very clean, and with a fantastic view. We did have an elephant about 1 foot (no joke) from our tent one night, making it even more special. I would tell anyone I know to go on this trip, even though it’s hard to explain how amazing it is. The bet bit for me, is no phone, computer, electricity, TV or anything you get at home, it makes me switch off 100% and I sleep like a baby! Close
If you didn’t want to do an evening ride, you could have gone on a game drive instead, we even went fishing, which was a 1st, but very entertaining, beware of the leeches! The food was fantastic, what was a great idea, was having a seating plan each evening, so you got to know everyone. The tents were always very clean, and with a fantastic view. We did have an elephant about 1 foot (no joke) from our tent one night, making it even more special. I would tell anyone I know to go on this trip, even though it’s hard to explain how amazing it is. The bet bit for me, is no phone, computer, electricity, TV or anything you get at home, it makes me switch off 100% and I sleep like a baby! Close
Sophie’s Botswana Riding Safari | Sophie
Janine's Botswana Riding Safari
The ‘best week of my life’ is an understatement. So many happy memories I’m not sure where to start… From the time we arrived I felt completely looked after and realised very early on I was in very good hands. The staff were totally amazing....
Read More
The ‘best week of my life’ is an understatement. So many happy memories I’m not sure where to start… From the time we arrived I felt completely looked after and realised very early on I was in very good hands.
The staff were totally amazing. Very helpful, and they can not do enough for you… the details are what count and I was constantly impressed at how well they took care of us. The food was lovely and well needed after a long days riding, there was always plenty to go around and it was very delicious.
The beds in the tents were the most comfortable I have slept on. I travel a lot with work so have a lot to compare then too – these were comfortable, the linen was always clean and the coffee as a wake up call was lush! I loved the interaction with the elephants on camp! I don’t mind being woken up by ellies for ever!
I have some fantastic memories including partying with a great group of campers, dressing up in P.J’s for dinner before a night spent in the tree house and hearing a lion roar. Swimming with horses, seeing hippos, galloping through water, sundown on the Land Rover… I could go on, but I wouldn’t want to spoil it for future campers! You have to go and see for yourself! The horses were amazing. I was fortunate enough to have some lovely
horses who made my holiday. It was good to see that African Horseback
Safaris can cater for all riders, I do like something with a character
and I got it 🙂 I also liked it that my horses knew the terrain and
were able to get me out of trouble at times.
All the horses on camp were in such good condition it was a pleasure to
be able to see them all coming in from the field and knowing which
stable was theirs! The grooms obviously love their horses very much
and it was a pleasure to have them tacked up and un-tacked for me! Close
The staff were totally amazing. Very helpful, and they can not do enough for you… the details are what count and I was constantly impressed at how well they took care of us. The food was lovely and well needed after a long days riding, there was always plenty to go around and it was very delicious.
The beds in the tents were the most comfortable I have slept on. I travel a lot with work so have a lot to compare then too – these were comfortable, the linen was always clean and the coffee as a wake up call was lush! I loved the interaction with the elephants on camp! I don’t mind being woken up by ellies for ever!
I have some fantastic memories including partying with a great group of campers, dressing up in P.J’s for dinner before a night spent in the tree house and hearing a lion roar. Swimming with horses, seeing hippos, galloping through water, sundown on the Land Rover… I could go on, but I wouldn’t want to spoil it for future campers! You have to go and see for yourself! The horses were amazing. I was fortunate enough to have some lovely
horses who made my holiday. It was good to see that African Horseback
Safaris can cater for all riders, I do like something with a character
and I got it 🙂 I also liked it that my horses knew the terrain and
were able to get me out of trouble at times.
All the horses on camp were in such good condition it was a pleasure to
be able to see them all coming in from the field and knowing which
stable was theirs! The grooms obviously love their horses very much
and it was a pleasure to have them tacked up and un-tacked for me! Close
Janine’s Botswana Riding Safari | Janine
The Judd Family Holiday to Kenya
The Judd Family Holiday to Kenya | The Judd family
We really enjoyed the whole time , the lodges, the food , the staff at all the lodges an dour tour guides were great, the gorilla tracking the icing on the top! We will treasure the experience with the gorilla and chimp tracking for ever!...
Read More
We really enjoyed the whole time , the lodges, the food , the staff at
all the lodges an dour tour guides were great, the gorilla tracking the
icing on the top! We will treasure the experience with the gorilla and chimp tracking for ever!
Back tracking from Bwindi to Kyambura the only slight blemish in that it
ate into valuable time (but we knew the reason was to fit with the
permits dates and birthday).
We were so pleasantly surprised by our experience in Rwanda, clean
country side, friendly people great to see a country recovering from a
torn past.
One thing we discovered while waiting at Kigali airport was that we
could have flown directly to Dubai rather than via Nairobi which was a
very long lay over between flights really exhausting in a cramped
airport.
Volcano Safari’s did a great job, top class lodges and the tour guides
took great care of us, making our travel a lot of fun also attending to
our needs. Close
all the lodges an dour tour guides were great, the gorilla tracking the
icing on the top! We will treasure the experience with the gorilla and chimp tracking for ever!
Back tracking from Bwindi to Kyambura the only slight blemish in that it
ate into valuable time (but we knew the reason was to fit with the
permits dates and birthday).
We were so pleasantly surprised by our experience in Rwanda, clean
country side, friendly people great to see a country recovering from a
torn past.
One thing we discovered while waiting at Kigali airport was that we
could have flown directly to Dubai rather than via Nairobi which was a
very long lay over between flights really exhausting in a cramped
airport.
Volcano Safari’s did a great job, top class lodges and the tour guides
took great care of us, making our travel a lot of fun also attending to
our needs. Close
| Julie and Noel
Noel and Julie's Uganda and Rwanda Vacation
We really enjoyed the whole time , the lodges, the food , the staff at all the lodges an dour tour guides were great, the gorilla tracking the icing on the top! We will treasure the experience with the gorilla and chimp tracking for ever!...
Read More
We really enjoyed the whole time , the lodges, the food , the staff at all the lodges an dour tour guides were great, the gorilla tracking the icing on the top! We will treasure the experience with the gorilla and chimp tracking for ever!
Back tracking from Bwindi to Kyambura the only slight blemish in that it ate into valuable time (but we knew the reason was to fit with the permits dates and birthday).
We were so pleasantly surprised by our experience in Rwanda, clean country side, friendly people great to see a country recovering from a torn past.
One thing we discovered while waiting at Kigali airport was that we could have flown directly to Dubai rather than via Nairobi which was a very long lay over between flights really exhausting in a cramped airport.
Volcano Safari’s did a great job, top class lodges and the tour guides took great care of us, making our travel a lot of fun also attending to our needs. Close
Back tracking from Bwindi to Kyambura the only slight blemish in that it ate into valuable time (but we knew the reason was to fit with the permits dates and birthday).
We were so pleasantly surprised by our experience in Rwanda, clean country side, friendly people great to see a country recovering from a torn past.
One thing we discovered while waiting at Kigali airport was that we could have flown directly to Dubai rather than via Nairobi which was a very long lay over between flights really exhausting in a cramped airport.
Volcano Safari’s did a great job, top class lodges and the tour guides took great care of us, making our travel a lot of fun also attending to our needs. Close
Noel and Julie’s Uganda and Rwanda Vacation | Julie and Noel
The highlight was definitely Sarara – the camp, the management, the game drives and walks and the friendly and relaxing atmosphere. Lake Manze as a camp was disappointing but we had good game drives. Dawn everywhere was a spectacle and everywhere different but particularly stunning on the Indian Ocean....
Read More
The highlight was definitely Sarara – the camp, the management, the game drives and walks and the friendly and relaxing atmosphere. Lake Manze as a camp was disappointing but we had good game drives. Dawn everywhere was a spectacle and everywhere different but particularly stunning on the Indian Ocean. The itinerary provided a good balance of relaxation and activity and a reasonable time at each location. The transfers and flights all worked well, although we would avoid overnight flights in future. On our return we had too long a wait at Zanzibar airport and at Nairobi but the latter probably couldn’t be helped.
Close
| Gill and Michael
We loved the whole trip! The people of Uganda and Rwanda were very
friendly, the countries are beautiful, and very blessed to have the
wildlife they do. The Mountain Gorillas are just amazing! Far exceeded
expectations!
Our highlights – the gorillas... Read More
friendly, the countries are beautiful, and very blessed to have the
wildlife they do. The Mountain Gorillas are just amazing! Far exceeded
expectations!
Our highlights – the gorillas... Read More
We loved the whole trip! The people of Uganda and Rwanda were very
friendly, the countries are beautiful, and very blessed to have the
wildlife they do. The Mountain Gorillas are just amazing! Far exceeded
expectations!
Our highlights – the gorillas, the leopard in QENP, the beautiful
lodges and scenery!
The only bad thing is that we didn’t have enough time to do everything
we wanted to do at each lodge. Never had time for the massages or some
of the side trips. We squeezed as much as we could in 🙂
The lodges and guides were fantastic. We would highly recommend Uganda
and Rwanda. We were truly amazed at how beautiful Rwanda is, how clean
it is, how well the roads are maintained, and how friendly the people
are. The Ugandan roads are a little less well maintained – good for
giving African massages! Close
friendly, the countries are beautiful, and very blessed to have the
wildlife they do. The Mountain Gorillas are just amazing! Far exceeded
expectations!
Our highlights – the gorillas, the leopard in QENP, the beautiful
lodges and scenery!
The only bad thing is that we didn’t have enough time to do everything
we wanted to do at each lodge. Never had time for the massages or some
of the side trips. We squeezed as much as we could in 🙂
The lodges and guides were fantastic. We would highly recommend Uganda
and Rwanda. We were truly amazed at how beautiful Rwanda is, how clean
it is, how well the roads are maintained, and how friendly the people
are. The Ugandan roads are a little less well maintained – good for
giving African massages! Close
| Michael and Moira
Michael and Moira's Uganda and Rwanda Vacation
We loved the whole trip!!! The people of Uganda and Rwanda were very friendly, the countries are beautiful, and very blessed to have the wildlife they do. The Mountain Gorillas are just amazing! Far exceeded expectations!...
Read More
We loved the whole trip!!! The people of Uganda and Rwanda were very friendly, the countries are beautiful, and very blessed to have the wildlife they do. The Mountain Gorillas are just amazing! Far exceeded expectations!
Our highlights – the gorillas, the leopard in QENP, the beautiful lodges and scenery!!
The only bad thing is that we didn’t have enough time to do everything we wanted to do at each lodge. Never had time for the massages or some of the side trips. We squeezed as much as we could in 🙂
The lodges and guides were fantastic. We would highly recommend Uganda and Rwanda. We were truly amazed at how beautiful Rwanda is, how clean it is, how well the roads are maintained, and how friendly the people are. The Ugandan roads are a little less well maintained – good for giving African massages! Close
Our highlights – the gorillas, the leopard in QENP, the beautiful lodges and scenery!!
The only bad thing is that we didn’t have enough time to do everything we wanted to do at each lodge. Never had time for the massages or some of the side trips. We squeezed as much as we could in 🙂
The lodges and guides were fantastic. We would highly recommend Uganda and Rwanda. We were truly amazed at how beautiful Rwanda is, how clean it is, how well the roads are maintained, and how friendly the people are. The Ugandan roads are a little less well maintained – good for giving African massages! Close
Michael and Moira’s Uganda and Rwanda Vacation | Michael and Moira
Rose's South Africa Trip
Rose’s South Africa Trip | Rose
Andy and Suzanne's South Africa Trip
Cape Town was beautiful and the highlights were the trip up Table Mountain, the visit to the wine valley and the shark cage dive. As for our Safari we are hooked and are thinking of doing another one in the coming years. It exceeded our expectations on all areas....
Read More
Cape Town was beautiful and the highlights were the trip up Table Mountain, the visit to the wine valley and the shark cage dive. As for our Safari we are hooked and are thinking of doing another one in the coming years. It exceeded our expectations on all areas.
Close
Andy and Suzanne’s South Africa Trip | Andy and Suzanne
Gosh – two weeks is too long to encapsulate here. I already did most of it in my email to Charlie with the pictures I sent to him. The trip was excellent. In fact, Erin took a lot of video, and she plans to make a DVD of Audrey and Erin’s Excellent Adventure....
Read More
Gosh – two weeks is too long to encapsulate here. I already did most of
it in my email to Charlie with the pictures I sent to him. The trip
was excellent. In fact, Erin took a lot of video, and she plans to make
a DVD of Audrey and Erin’s Excellent Adventure. The gorillas were the
high point for me. Climbing up into the rainforest on the first day
left me short of breath, legs shaking, and thinking I had overestimated
my ability to accomplish this activity, but I made it, and being with
the gorillas brought tears to my eyes, swelled my heart, and laughter
poured out of me. It was the picture of the silverback on the internet
that triggered me into finding Aardvark, because I wanted to go be with
“him,” and that is exactly where I got to go. What a magnificent
creature, and how humbling to be so close, and him to be so kind so as
to not hurt me in any way. I wanted so much to touch all of the
gorillas, to be cradled by them the same way they cradled their own
babies. I loved watching the gazelles run and the giraffes cruise
through the bush so elegantly. The zebras, the topi, Fig the Leopard
and Narasha the Cheetah were all beautiful. I wanted to buy a mountain
of steaks for the carnivores so they didn’t have to eat the babies of
the herbivores. It’s a tough life in the bush. I’m sure it gets lonely
and cold, but all the animals seem to handle it with grace and
equanimity. Close
it in my email to Charlie with the pictures I sent to him. The trip
was excellent. In fact, Erin took a lot of video, and she plans to make
a DVD of Audrey and Erin’s Excellent Adventure. The gorillas were the
high point for me. Climbing up into the rainforest on the first day
left me short of breath, legs shaking, and thinking I had overestimated
my ability to accomplish this activity, but I made it, and being with
the gorillas brought tears to my eyes, swelled my heart, and laughter
poured out of me. It was the picture of the silverback on the internet
that triggered me into finding Aardvark, because I wanted to go be with
“him,” and that is exactly where I got to go. What a magnificent
creature, and how humbling to be so close, and him to be so kind so as
to not hurt me in any way. I wanted so much to touch all of the
gorillas, to be cradled by them the same way they cradled their own
babies. I loved watching the gazelles run and the giraffes cruise
through the bush so elegantly. The zebras, the topi, Fig the Leopard
and Narasha the Cheetah were all beautiful. I wanted to buy a mountain
of steaks for the carnivores so they didn’t have to eat the babies of
the herbivores. It’s a tough life in the bush. I’m sure it gets lonely
and cold, but all the animals seem to handle it with grace and
equanimity. Close
| Audrey and Erin
The Roberts Family Holiday to Kenya
Excellent – loved it. Great mix between safari and beach. Travel arrangements worked well. One of the best family holidays we’ve had. Thank you....
Read More
Excellent – loved it. Great mix between safari and beach. Travel arrangements worked well. One of the best family holidays we’ve had. Thank you.
Close
The Roberts Family Holiday to Kenya | The Roberts Family
Audrey and Erin's Rwanda and Kenya Vacation
Gosh – two weeks is too long to encapsulate here. I already did most of it in my email to Charlie with the pictures I sent to him. The trip was excellent. In fact, Erin took a lot of video, and she plans to make a DVD of Audrey and Erin’s Excellent Adventure. The gorillas were the high point for me....
Read More
Gosh – two weeks is too long to encapsulate here. I already did most of it in my email to Charlie with the pictures I sent to him. The trip was excellent. In fact, Erin took a lot of video, and she plans to make a DVD of Audrey and Erin’s Excellent Adventure. The gorillas were the high point for me. Climbing up into the rainforest on the first day left me short of breath, legs shaking, and thinking I had overestimated my ability to accomplish this activity, but I made it, and being with the gorillas brought tears to my eyes, swelled my heart, and laughter poured out of me. It was the picture of the silverback on the internet that triggered me into finding Aardvark, because I wanted to go be with “him,” and that is exactly where I got to go. What a magnificent creature, and how humbling to be so close, and him to be so kind so as to not hurt me in any way. I wanted so much to touch all of the gorillas, to be cradled by them the same way they cradled their own babies. I loved watching the gazelles run and the giraffes cruise through the bush so elegantly. The zebras, the topi, Fig the Leopard and Narasha the Cheetah were all beautiful. I wanted to buy a mountain of steaks for the carnivores so they didn’t have to eat the babies of the herbivores. It’s a tough life in the bush. I’m sure it gets lonely and cold, but all the animals seem to handle it with grace and equanimity.
Close
Audrey and Erin’s Rwanda and Kenya Vacation | Audrey and Erin
Dennis and Loraine's Kenya Vacation
Overall our Kenya trip was excellent. Highlight was at the Elephant Watch camp where we saw leopards. The guides at the Elephant Watch camp were extremely knowledgeable of the area, tracking and the animals. We felt safe at all times which is important and would definitely go back…loved it....
Read More
Overall our Kenya trip was excellent. Highlight was at the Elephant Watch camp where we saw leopards. The guides at the Elephant Watch camp were extremely knowledgeable of the area, tracking and the animals. We felt safe at all times which is important and would definitely go back…loved it.
Close
Dennis and Loraine’s Kenya Vacation | Dennis and Loraine
Craig and Catherine's Holiday to Tanzania
Craig and Catherine’s Holiday to Tanzania | Craig and Catherine
Family Together In Kenya
A truly magical safari! The variety and the quality of the organisation, accommodation and people as well as the exceptional nature and beauty of Kenya made this trip a once in a lifetime special....
Read More
A truly magical holiday!!! The variety and the quality of the organisation, accommodation and people as well as the exceptional nature and beauty of Kenya made this trip a once in a lifetime special.
Close
Family Together In Kenya | The Costello Family.
Graham and Denise's Kenya Holiday
Just the whole experience from being met at the airport , transferred to accommodation, day by day adventures and returned back to the airport – you just can’t beat it. We got to see things we have not see before – Pelicans on the Mara! Fred was brilliant with identifying birds so we got to see Kingfisher (three different types) and two separate Leopard spots – one on the first day and one on the last – absolutely perfect....
Read More
Just the whole experience from being met at the airport , transferred to accommodation, day by day adventures and returned back to the airport – you just can’t beat it. We got to see things we have not see before – Pelicans on the Mara! Fred was brilliant with identifying birds so we got to see Kingfisher (three different types) and two separate Leopard spots – one on the first day and one on the last – absolutely perfect. I think besides the wildlife the most memorable thing about this trip was introducing Fred firstly and then his team to triominos – they were out to beat Graham every time and always wanted just one more game – we really did have a lot of fun 🙂
Close
Graham and Denise’s Kenya Holiday | Graham and Denise
Michael's Vacation to Kenya
The trip was everything I had hoped for. Great photography opportunities, great lodges with great people running the place and great guides. The travel went very smoothly-including the international and the safari flights. Again, Nairobi traffic during weekdays should be avoided if possible by Sunday arrivals and departures....
Read More
The trip was everything I had hoped for. Great photography opportunities, great lodges with great people running the place and great guides.
The travel went very smoothly-including the international and the safari flights. Again, Nairobi traffic during weekdays should be avoided if possible by Sunday arrivals and departures. Close
The travel went very smoothly-including the international and the safari flights. Again, Nairobi traffic during weekdays should be avoided if possible by Sunday arrivals and departures. Close
Michael’s Vacation to Kenya | Michael
The Taylor Family Zambia and Botswana Holiday
We were slightly nervous to take children aged 5 and 8 on a trip through Zambia & Botswana but Aardvark Safaris helped us to find camps that had good guides, private game drives and staff who were flexible in terms of re-arranging mealtimes....
Read More
We were slightly nervous to take children aged 5 and 8 on a trip through Zambia & Botswana but Aardvark Safaris helped us to find camps that had good guides, private game drives and staff who were flexible in terms of re-arranging mealtimes. Would recommend the wet season as temperatures are cooler and there wasn’t anything we didn’t see other than the rhino. Was slightly concerned about food quality but this was absolutely not an issue. Everything was washed in safe water and we munched on salads and fruits without any stomach troubles at all.
Highlights include Victoria Falls, sunset cruises on the Zambezi River, getting our car stuck in a swamp and being rescued by other tour operators, seeing a leopard in a tree with a kill, as well as getting up close and personal with a lion. The baby leopards were tiny and will be talked about in our house forever! A boat ride in Botswana with home-made necklaces made from waterlillies and the grumpy hippos were also a favourite. Close
Highlights include Victoria Falls, sunset cruises on the Zambezi River, getting our car stuck in a swamp and being rescued by other tour operators, seeing a leopard in a tree with a kill, as well as getting up close and personal with a lion. The baby leopards were tiny and will be talked about in our house forever! A boat ride in Botswana with home-made necklaces made from waterlillies and the grumpy hippos were also a favourite. Close
The Taylor Family Zambia and Botswana Holiday | The Taylor Family
Catherine and Terry's South Africa Holiday
The safari was great – the highlight was probably tracking a leopard as it was so graceful, but everything about the camp was good and we saw The Big Five in abundance! Sadly we only saw a hippopotamus briefly which was the one animal I really wanted to see....
Read More
The safari was great – the highlight was probably tracking a leopard as it was so graceful, but everything about the camp was good and we saw The Big Five in abundance! Sadly we only saw a hippopotamus briefly which was the one animal I really wanted to see.
Close
Catherine and Terry’s South Africa Holiday | Catherine and Terence
Anne and Judith's Holiday to Botswana and Zambia
The camping was great fun, including the open air showers and loos, although trying to have a siesta in tents in 35 degree heat was a tad tricky! Shadreck was a fantastic guide, so tuned in to the sights and sounds around him that we saw over 40 large species of animal and 150 species of birds....
Read More
The camping was great fun, including the open air showers and loos, although trying to have a siesta in tents in 35 degree heat was a tad tricky! Shadreck was a fantastic guide, so tuned in to the sights and sounds around him that we saw over 40 large species of animal and 150 species of birds. I knew that Botswana was reputed to be one of the best places to see a wealth of wildlife and we certainly did see that – with lions and leopards (8 sightings- who said they were elusive- or was it just that we had the most brilliant guide?), both with their cubs and kills (one seconds after it happened with the leopard trying to get it into the tree), hyena and wild dogs with their pups (we saw them so many times that we’d never have known they were rare), a herd of over 1,000 buffalo close up after driving through the marsh, many antelope species, including 8 elusive eland running by, and the weird and wonderful night-time noises (I think I used up several of my heartbeats one night with an elephant 10m away, and a lion roaring close by)!
The camp staff were just brilliant, all had a great sense of humour and we couldn’t have asked for better service and food (although there was far too much!) and drink (including decaf coffee!). Even the 5.30 am starts weren’t too bad, especially when you knew you were going to be greeted by BD with ‘warm water’ and ‘welcome’ followed swiftly by the most glorious sunrise.
I wasn’t sure how we would cram so much into a day, but Shadreck certainly did that for us, and even on the travel days, and sometimes with driving 10 hours or more, he still took us out on a night drive. What more can you ask for- game drives, night drives, bush walks, mokoro canoe, river trip, great friendships- it really was so fantastic.
And to come back to the bush and sit around a camp fire after a day in the bush has to be the best way to soak up the atmosphere of the ‘real’ Africa and Botswana. Close
I wasn’t sure how we would cram so much into a day, but Shadreck certainly did that for us, and even on the travel days, and sometimes with driving 10 hours or more, he still took us out on a night drive. What more can you ask for- game drives, night drives, bush walks, mokoro canoe, river trip, great friendships- it really was so fantastic.
And to come back to the bush and sit around a camp fire after a day in the bush has to be the best way to soak up the atmosphere of the ‘real’ Africa and Botswana. Close
Anne and Judith’s Holiday to Botswana and Zambia | Anne and Judith
The McGeoch Family Holiday in Namibia
We were going for scenery and we got it in buckets. Climate perfect for us, good balance between “doing” stuff and relaxing. Only criticism we would have was Swakopmund restaurants. Both rather tired places and there are better options listed on Tripadvisor....
Read More
We were going for scenery and we got it in buckets. Climate perfect for us, good balance between “doing” stuff and relaxing. Only criticism we would have was Swakopmund restaurants. Both rather tired places and there are better options listed on Tripadvisor. Particularly disappointing as one of the meals was Christmas day and I got a processed hamburger, not even freshly made in the kitchen. We met other travels who raved about a fantastic restaurant in Walvis Bay – wish we had been there, run by a Belgian chef (not the Raft which fine for lunch but not great either). Sandboarding was wonderful as well – and this justified Swakopmund which would have been a bit of a down point on the trip without this. Also have some concerns about Okonjima – something odd about so many wild cats that they are now killing each other over territory. Wonder if they have reached there limit and perhaps exceeded it for benefit of tourists. I am old school and like to track my animals in the wild, if I see them then great but if not c’est la vie….. this is getting close to being a large wildlife park…. but kids loved it and was a nice end to the trip.
Close
The McGeoch Family Holiday in Namibia | The McGeoch Family
Michele and Erich's Mt Kilimanjaro Climb
Our climb was an unforgettable experience. We were amazed by the fauna and flora seen on Mt. Kilimanjaro and appreciated the stunning views. The Lemosho route had very little traffic so the camps were pleasantly quiet....
Read More
Our climb was an unforgettable experience. We were amazed by the fauna and flora seen on Mt. Kilimanjaro and appreciated the stunning views. The Lemosho route had very little traffic so the camps were pleasantly quiet. Mother nature rewarded us on summit night with a full moon and fresh snow affording us a magnificent sunrise and amazing photos. Our only complaint is that the mountain and camp sites are littered with rubbish and the outhouses and huts need some serious cleaning and replacing. We feel that the money earned from the thousands of climbers is not being spent on preserving this awesome mountain!
We highly recommend Summits Africa. Ake and his team are exceptional and
well trained. Our food was plentiful, tasty and varied and my husband,
Erich even had filtered coffee to drink! Having our own Porto Potty was a
godsend and it was kept clinically clean every day. Matthew, the camp
manager deserves a special mention for his ever friendly smile, hot
water and early morning coffee in our tent!
We were also very impressed with the daily tests and questions asked by
Joseph concerning our reactions to the altitude. This twice daily
monitoring of our health meant that everyone in our group acclimatized
and reached the summit! Their goal is 99% success rate!! Close
well trained. Our food was plentiful, tasty and varied and my husband,
Erich even had filtered coffee to drink! Having our own Porto Potty was a
godsend and it was kept clinically clean every day. Matthew, the camp
manager deserves a special mention for his ever friendly smile, hot
water and early morning coffee in our tent!
We were also very impressed with the daily tests and questions asked by
Joseph concerning our reactions to the altitude. This twice daily
monitoring of our health meant that everyone in our group acclimatized
and reached the summit! Their goal is 99% success rate!! Close
Michele and Erich’s Mt Kilimanjaro Climb | Michele and Erich
The Linley-Adams familly holiday to Zambia and Malawi
It was a truly amazing holiday – the mix we had made sure there were many unforgettable moments and something to suit us all. The location of Kasaka and having the river activities was quite a favourite, but also the experience of staying in the Treehouse....
Read More
It was a truly amazing holiday – the mix we had made sure there were many unforgettable moments and something to suit us all. The location of Kasaka and having the river activities was quite a favourite, but also the experience of staying in the Treehouse. For us, seeing some local projects gave us more insight into the areas, which we loved.
Close
The Linley-Adams familly holiday to Zambia and Malawi | The Linley-Adams Family
The Davies Family Holiday in Namibia
We had such a memorable holiday in Namibia and so much of our memories are down to the support and care provided by our guide who was with us for the duration of the trip. We were travelling with four teenagers and the drives on average were a minimum of four hours maximum of six....
Read More
We had such a memorable holiday in Namibia and so much of our memories are down to the support and care provided by our guide who was with us for the duration of the trip. We were travelling with four teenagers and the drives on average were a minimum of four hours maximum of six. The guide Uanee kept the entire car occupied with stories from past trips (very funny) through to the history of Namibia to information about the wildlife, birds and plants that were part of the landscape we drove through. The lovely roadside picnics set under the most perfect tree. Our knowledge and appreciation of Namibia was made possible because of our access to someone with such an intimate knowledge of the culture, the wildlife and the people of Namibia. It is possible that we would have had an enjoyable trip to Namibia without a guide it would not have been possible to have the memorable trip that we had.
Close
The Davies Family Holiday in Namibia | The Davies Family
The Munton Family Holiday to Kenya
The wildlife in the Mara was a big highlight- seeing cats for the first time close up was one of the reasons we decided on Kenya, so it was very pleasing to have been able to do this. The slight trade-off is obviously the Mara is busier than the smaller reserves, but we appreciated our guide’s efforts to be in different areas to the other Jeeps....
Read More
The wildlife in the Mara was a big highlight- seeing cats for the first time close up was one of the reasons we decided on Kenya, so it was very pleasing to have been able to do this. The slight trade-off is obviously the Mara is busier than the smaller reserves, but we appreciated our guide’s efforts to be in different areas to the other Jeeps.
All in all, a thoroughly enjoyable trip and a great way to spend Christmas. Close
All in all, a thoroughly enjoyable trip and a great way to spend Christmas. Close
The Munton Family Holiday to Kenya | The Munton Family
Daniel and Louise's Uganda Holiday
To travel in Uganda was an unforgettable experience. To see the chimps and the gorillas is truly something worth what we paid. Also, we wanted to say that our guide, Francis, was outstanding. In more than one way, he actually made our trip....
Read More
To travel in Uganda was an unforgettable experience. To see the chimps and the gorillas is truly something worth what we paid.
Also, we wanted to say that our guide, Francis, was outstanding. In more than one way, he actually made our trip. He was always there, helpful, great driver and guide, friendly, knew lots of stuff, great sense of humor, very respectful. A great person
Actually if you could send us his email would be great. We promised to send him some pictures! Close
Also, we wanted to say that our guide, Francis, was outstanding. In more than one way, he actually made our trip. He was always there, helpful, great driver and guide, friendly, knew lots of stuff, great sense of humor, very respectful. A great person
Actually if you could send us his email would be great. We promised to send him some pictures! Close
Daniel and Louise’s Uganda Holiday | Daniel and Louise
The Lavelle Family Holiday to Zambia and Botswana
Fantastic staff and guide, very welcoming and friendly. Excellent food and the camping facilities added to the experience of being truly in the wild. Highly recommend to people wanting to get a real taste of the African wilderness and a great wildlife safari....
Read More
Fantastic staff and guide, very welcoming and friendly.
Excellent food and the camping facilities added to the experience of being truly in the wild.
Highly recommend to people wanting to get a real taste of the African wilderness and a great wildlife safari. Close
Excellent food and the camping facilities added to the experience of being truly in the wild.
Highly recommend to people wanting to get a real taste of the African wilderness and a great wildlife safari. Close
The Lavelle Family Holiday to Zambia and Botswana | The Lavelle Family
Roy and June's Zambia and Malawi Holiday
Highlights: seeing the Victoria Falls , truly spectacular, the two bush camps , well run, clean, fantastic food, great company, amazing guides and of course stars of the show – the animals , wonderful unforgettable moments: first close encounter with a lion in the bush and a charging elephant...
Read More
Highlights: seeing the Victoria Falls- truly spectacular
the two bush camps- well run, clean, fantastic food, great company, amazing guides and of course stars of the show – the animals- wonderful unforgettable moments: first close encounter with a lion in the bush and a charging elephant Close
the two bush camps- well run, clean, fantastic food, great company, amazing guides and of course stars of the show – the animals- wonderful unforgettable moments: first close encounter with a lion in the bush and a charging elephant Close
Roy and June’s Zambia and Malawi Holiday | Roy and June
Sydelle's Safari to Botswana and Zambia
LOVED my Letaka guide – he was superb. Loved the camping and the thrill of the unexpected. Did not care for Savuti – we camped far from the reserve and spent too much time driving (4 hrs/ day) through not very interesting landscape just to get to the reserve....
Read More
LOVED my Letaka guide – he was superb. Loved the camping and the thrill of the unexpected. Did not care for Savuti – we camped far from the reserve and spent too much time driving (4 hrs/ day) through not very interesting landscape just to get to the reserve.
Enjoyed the walking safari – it’s a much quieter experience walking than Jeep life, though the thrills are smaller too. But it was great to have feet on the ground. Close
Enjoyed the walking safari – it’s a much quieter experience walking than Jeep life, though the thrills are smaller too. But it was great to have feet on the ground. Close
Sydelle’s Safari to Botswana and Zambia | Sydelle
Steve and Jeanne's Safari to Kenya, Rwanda, Zambia and Malawi
This was a trip of a lifetime for both of us. We really appreciated the high end facilities and the warm welcome we received at each stop. The level of commitment to the clientele was evident as we felt special in each place....
Read More
This was a trip of a lifetime for both of us. We really appreciated the high end facilities and the warm welcome we received at each stop. The level of commitment to the clientèle was evident as we felt special in each place.
Some observations/thoughts are: The 2 separate nights at Giraffe Manor was a little difficult, but we know that was out of your hands. Virunga Lodge is a long way from gorillas. I think there are some places closer that may be really good. Perhaps an option there would be nice. We went to Genocide Museum 1st which helped us the entire trip, as we saw the country differently. In Zambia, we passed through the a Zambezi River Lodge to get a boat for the falls. It looked really nice. Again, only 2 nights at the River Club would be fine. Zambia was rich in animals so that was a great stop. Not sure about other accommodations there. Malawi was an excellent ending point after safari. Good to stretch our legs and not worry about walking anywhere. Close
Some observations/thoughts are: The 2 separate nights at Giraffe Manor was a little difficult, but we know that was out of your hands. Virunga Lodge is a long way from gorillas. I think there are some places closer that may be really good. Perhaps an option there would be nice. We went to Genocide Museum 1st which helped us the entire trip, as we saw the country differently. In Zambia, we passed through the a Zambezi River Lodge to get a boat for the falls. It looked really nice. Again, only 2 nights at the River Club would be fine. Zambia was rich in animals so that was a great stop. Not sure about other accommodations there. Malawi was an excellent ending point after safari. Good to stretch our legs and not worry about walking anywhere. Close
Steve and Jeanne’s Safari to Kenya, Rwanda, Zambia and Malawi | Steve and Jeanne
Shawnte's Kilimanjaro Climb
This was an experience I’ll never forget. Every single aspect of my trip was A+++. Our guide, Ayubu, was smart and funny, knowledgeable and in control. He kept us informed, but also kept us happy and laughing – and safe. The food was INSANELY GOOD...
Read More
This was an experience I’ll never forget. Every single aspect of my trip was A+++. Our guide, Ayubu, was smart and funny, knowledgeable and in control. He kept us informed, but also kept us happy and laughing – and safe. The food was INSANELY GOOD – different soups every day, snacks, various beverages, fresh fruits, plenty of veggies – and they accommodated my gluten allergy with no problems at all. The porters were kind and efficient – and taught me how to play a few card games (I highly encourage you to spend time with the A Team – these guys earn their name!) The quality of our gear was top-notch – tents, chairs, sleeping bags etc. – I felt very taken care of and it felt luxurious compared to my own camping experiences back home 🙂 The pre-climb briefing with Ben was thorough and informative, and I appreciated that he also spoke with us about our experience post-climb. All in all, everything really exceeded my expectations – including the mountain itself, which was just stunning from top to bottom!
Close
Shawnte’s Kilimanjaro Climb | Shawnte
John and April's Tanzanian safari
This was going to be our first and only great adventure to Africa. After day two, We started making plans for our return. This is an amazing experience. I am a very experience professional photographer and my wife is an accomplished interior designer, so not only have we traveled the world, but with a very critical eye....
Read More
This was going to be our first and only great adventure to Africa. After day two, We started making plans for our return.
This is an amazing experience. I am a very experience professional photographer and my wife is an accomplished interior designer, so not only have we traveled the world, but with a very critical eye. This trip went beyond our expectations. I researched this trip for over a year and it was John and Victoria of Aardvark Safaris who made sense of it all and sent us on our way.
14 days is just right, but I could have stayed there longer. September is a great time to go because the grass is low and you
are able to see the wildlife easily. Again 3 days at each camp was perfect but I could have stayed longer at Lamai. Close
This is an amazing experience. I am a very experience professional photographer and my wife is an accomplished interior designer, so not only have we traveled the world, but with a very critical eye. This trip went beyond our expectations. I researched this trip for over a year and it was John and Victoria of Aardvark Safaris who made sense of it all and sent us on our way.
14 days is just right, but I could have stayed there longer. September is a great time to go because the grass is low and you
are able to see the wildlife easily. Again 3 days at each camp was perfect but I could have stayed longer at Lamai. Close
John and April’s Tanzanian safari | John and April
James and Helena's Holiday to South Africa
The only low was British airways cancelling a flight which meant a 27 hour delay. The highlights include: the first ever sighting of a wild giraffe while on a walk, the close up encounters with the wildlife from horse back, swimming with the horses in the dam...
Read More
The only low was British airways cancelling a flight which meant a 27hour delay. The highlights include: the first ever sighting of a wild giraffe while on a walk, the close up encounters with the wildlife from horse back, swimming with the horses in the dam, feeding the rhino up by the owners house, the daily ‘sundowner’s gin and tonic at different spots around the farm, bush lunch, galloping around the bush and visiting a game fair. The fact the guides got my husband confident enough to canter around the bush on his horse was quite an achievement…more than I have managed in 20 years.
Close
James and Helena’s Holiday to South Africa | James and Helena
Alex and Nick's Holiday to South Africa
We really loved it, thank you so much for your help with everything.
I thought it was also worth recommending to other clients the airport lounge at Johannesburg domestic airport, it worked out at only $20 each and was well-worth it after such a long international flight from London.... Read More
I thought it was also worth recommending to other clients the airport lounge at Johannesburg domestic airport, it worked out at only $20 each and was well-worth it after such a long international flight from London.... Read More
We really loved it, thank you so much for your help with everything.
I thought it was also worth recommending to other clients the airport lounge at Johannesburg domestic airport, it worked out at only $20 each and was well-worth it after such a long international flight from London. Close
I thought it was also worth recommending to other clients the airport lounge at Johannesburg domestic airport, it worked out at only $20 each and was well-worth it after such a long international flight from London. Close
Alex and Nick’s Holiday to South Africa | Alex and Nick
Tyler and Ashley's Honeymoon to South Africa
10 paws easily! Definitely the best experience of our lives!! Everything was perfectly planned and all of the places we stayed were incredible!...
Read More
10 paws easily! Definitely the best experience of our lives!! Everything was perfectly planned and all of the places we stayed were incredible!
Close
Tyler and Ashley’s Honeymoon to South Africa | Tyler and Ashley
Nicholson Family Namibia Holiday
We had a great time, all went to plan. FYI we thought the Windhoek Hilton was fine for our first night. It has a rooftop bar that overlooks the city and our girls thought this was very cool place, we did too so was a good addition, albeit by accident, to the Olive....
Read More
We had a great time, all went to plan.
FYI we thought the Windhoek Hilton was fine for our first night. It has a rooftop bar that overlooks the city and our girls thought this was very cool place, we did too so was a good addition, albeit by accident, to the Olive. Close
FYI we thought the Windhoek Hilton was fine for our first night. It has a rooftop bar that overlooks the city and our girls thought this was very cool place, we did too so was a good addition, albeit by accident, to the Olive. Close
Nicholson Family Namibia Holiday | The Nicholson Family
Lesley and Kathleen's Namibia Holiday
Our Namibia holiday experience was really fantastic. We enjoyed it all so much. The Skeleton Coast Flying Safari has to be the highlight as described above. We were impressed with the standard of our guides Jimmy and Max....
Read More
Our Namibia holiday experience was really fantastic. We enjoyed it all so much. The Skeleton Coast Flying Safari has to be the highlight as described above. We were impressed with the standard of our guides Jimmy and Max. We spent more time with Jimmy (Max did not eat with us, which was the style of the Mowani Mountain Camp, and absolutely fine with us) and thus got to know Jimmy better, but both were very good.
Close
Lesley and Kathleen’s Namibia Holiday | Lesley
Lesley's Holiday to Namibia
We have now had three safari holidays in Africa with Aardvark and have enjoyed every minute of every holiday but our three days on The Skeleton Coast Safari with Andre Schoeman has be to the pinnacle. We were lucky enough to have the plane, the camps and Andre to ourselves, which made it SO special....
Read More
We have now had three safari holidays in Africa with Aardvark and have enjoyed every minute of every holiday but our three days on The Skeleton Coast Safari with Andre Schoeman has be to the pinnacle. We were lucky enough to have the plane, the camps and Andre to ourselves, which made it SO special. We did so much in our three days and there were so many highlights. Sliding down a roaring dune, feeding wild birds by hand, visiting the Himba village, flying over white rhinos and lions and descending to see them without disturbing them, travelling up the river in the boat, seeing rare birds and finding elephant and giraffe, the coast line with its ancient wrecks, flamingos and seal colonies, walking in the hills and finding the ancient rock art, the fascinating geology of the area and travelling ON TOP of the Landrover. Andre made us feel that he would be able to resolve any problem that might arise – someone stole petrol from the Landrover when we were an hour from camp, but everything worked out perfectly. It really was fantastic and worth the money.
Close
Lesley’s Holiday to Namibia | Lesley
Prabhu and Eleanor's Honeymoon to Tanzania
Prabhu and Eleanor’s Honeymoon to Tanzania | Prabhu and Eleanor
The Collins Family Holiday to Zambia and Botswana
Starting in Livingstone with a few low-key days was the perfect way to get over jet lag and acclimatise to Africa. We lived camping with Grant and the Letaka crew and were so fortunate to experience the amazing San Camp. Botswana is a wonderful, unspoilt and wild place and long may it be so!...
Read More
Starting in Livingstone with a few low-key days was the perfect way to get over jet lag and acclimatise to Africa. We lived camping with Grant and the Letaka crew and were so fortunate to experience the amazing San Camp. Botswana is a wonderful, unspoilt and wild place and long may it be so! Travellers should be aware that wildlife viewing may not be as plentiful as in a private concession but to have a wild dog pack hunting alongside your car with no one else around is so worth it! Thank you, Aardvark!
Close
The Collins Family Holiday to Zambia and Botswana | The Collins Family
The Collins Family Holiday to Zambia and Botswana
I had wanted a safari experience closer to the wildlife than a luxury lodge, where I felt like I was part of the bush. Our mobile safari was certainly that and what a treat that we were able to experience it with Grant. From our 12 year old holding an 8 foot python which Grant found, the special birthday cake that the chef baked for my husband to sundowners at our stunning camp sites with no one else around , it was a wonderful experience....
Read More
I had wanted a safari experience closer to the wildlife than a luxury lodge, where I felt like I was part of the bush. Our mobile safari was certainly that and what a treat that we were able to experience it with Grant. From our 12 year old holding an 8 foot python which Grant found, the special birthday cake that the chef baked for my husband to sundowners at our stunning camp sites with no one else around , it was a wonderful experience. The Letaka staff were top notch – Grant was a wealth of knowledge on wildlife, birds and all things Botswana, the staff managed the logistics without a hitch and how they made the meals they did over a campfire I just don’t know!
Close
The Collins Family Holiday to Zambia and Botswana | The Collins Family
The Plattner Family Holiday to Namibia and Botswana
1 week Namibia and 1 week Botswana is a wonderful combination because the countries are so different. The whole trip was perfectly organised and everything worked out perfectly. We can highly recommend everything we did....
Read More
1 week Namibia and 1 week Botswana is a wonderful combination because the countries are so different. The whole trip was perfectly organised and everything worked out perfectly. We can highly recommend everything we did.
Close
The Plattner Family Holiday to Namibia and Botswana | The Plattner Family
1 week Namibia and 1 week Botswana is a wonderful combination because the countries are so different. The whole trip was perfectly organised and everything worked out perfectly. We can highly recommend everything we did....
Read More
1 week Namibia and 1 week Botswana is a wonderful combination because the countries are so different. The whole trip was perfectly organised and everything worked out perfectly. We can highly recommend everything we did.
Close
| The Plattner Family
The Plattner Family Holiday to Namibia and Botswana
For me, this was the most adventurous and a bit scary part and I had to get used to sleeping in the open spaces, listening to all the wild animals during the night. I was not so relaxed. But people feel different about this. But it was all excellent: great guide, great support by the cook and assistant, wonderful food and very good care....
Read More
For me, this was the most adventurous and a bit scary part and I had to get used to sleeping in the open spaces, listening to all the wild animals during the night. I was not so relaxed. But people feel different about this. But it was all excellent: great guide, great support by the cook and assistant, wonderful food and very good care. We learned so many things just Talking to the Guide and we were very lucky discovering all the animals: 3 lionesses with 10 Babies, a kill (lionsesses killend an Antilope). Leopard with baby, hyaenas, wild dogs, lots of elephants, buffaloes, hippostand and . . .
Close
The Plattner Family Holiday to Namibia and Botswana | The Plattner Family
The Plattner Family Holiday to Namibia and Botswana
For me, this was the best part of our whole 2 weeks trip. I will Never forget the flying safari. Our pilot Helga was such a competent and fun guide and a real good company. Our children also liked her a lot....
Read More
For me, this was the best part of our whole 2 weeks trip. I will Never forget the flying safari. Our pilot Helga was such a competent and fun guide and a real good company. Our children also liked her a Lot. Sandwich lunch on the beach, flying lessons on Air, driving in the sand dunes, learning about the desert or staying at the company owned camps, it was all simply amazing.
Close
The Plattner Family Holiday to Namibia and Botswana | The Plattner Family
Alex and Iona's Kilimanjaro Climb and Zanzibar Beach Holiday
Incredible. Kili was just out of this world and Zanzibar was a much needed rest after the climb. Zanzibar is fairly limited from an activity perspective but its stunning and if you have a big budget then the opportunities open up a lot. Well worth a visit....
Read More
Incredible. Kili was just out of this world and Zanzibar was a much needed rest after the climb. Zanzibar is fairly limited from an activity perspective but its stunning and if you have a big budget then the opportunities open up a lot. Well worth a visit.
Close
Alex and Iona’s Kilimanjaro Climb and Zanzibar Beach Holiday | Alex and Iona
Lee and Marilyn's vacation to Tanzania and Mafia Island
Diving was very nice at Mafia, and Marilyn’s snorkeling and cultural outings were great.
Selous was amazing. We saw pretty much every animal that could be seen. Highlights were having our Landy surrounded by elephants. (This even made our guide nervous.)... Read More
Selous was amazing. We saw pretty much every animal that could be seen. Highlights were having our Landy surrounded by elephants. (This even made our guide nervous.)... Read More
Diving was very nice at Mafia, and Marilyn’s snorkeling and cultural outings were great.
Selous was amazing. We saw pretty much every animal that could be seen. Highlights were having our Landy surrounded by elephants. (This even made our guide nervous.) And a leopard with fresh kill in the tree right above us.
Our tent was the farthest out and we had hippos rubbing against it in the middle of the night, an elephant strolling up to the front of our tent, and monkeys using our tent as a trampoline to launch themselves into the date palms. Great fun! Close
Selous was amazing. We saw pretty much every animal that could be seen. Highlights were having our Landy surrounded by elephants. (This even made our guide nervous.) And a leopard with fresh kill in the tree right above us.
Our tent was the farthest out and we had hippos rubbing against it in the middle of the night, an elephant strolling up to the front of our tent, and monkeys using our tent as a trampoline to launch themselves into the date palms. Great fun! Close
Lee and Marilyn’s vacation to Tanzania and Mafia Island | Marilyn and Lee
Sharon and Robert's Botswana Safari
It was all brilliant and a lot of fun. Every camp was different and thus we could see Botswana from different aspects. Mombo in particular stood out. The food, the service, the animals everything was outstanding....
Read More
It was all brilliant and a lot of fun. Every camp was different and thus we could see Botswana from different aspects.
Mombo in particular stood out. The food, the service, the animals everything was outstanding. Close
Mombo in particular stood out. The food, the service, the animals everything was outstanding. Close
Sharon and Robert’s Botswana Safari | Sharon and Robert
Alex and Iona's Kilimanjaro Climb and Zanzibar Holiday
INCREDIBLE. Best holiday / climb I’ve ever done. Our guide was outstanding and we all had the time of our lives. A long but great route and there was never any doubt that we would get to the top – we were filled with confidence the whole way up!...
Read More
INCREDIBLE. Best holiday / climb I’ve ever done. Our guide was outstanding and we all had the time of our lives. A long but great route and there was never any doubt that we would get to the top – we were filled with confidence the whole way up!
I’d suggest this route as plenty of acclimatisation time! Its a tough walk but worth ever minute. Good luck! Close
I’d suggest this route as plenty of acclimatisation time! Its a tough walk but worth ever minute. Good luck! Close
Alex and Iona’s Kilimanjaro Climb and Zanzibar Holiday | Alex and Iona
Matita's Botswana Safari
The safari was magical, and everything I hoped it would be. I went by myself and didn’t know anyone else in the party, nor had I been to Botswana before. I wanted to be under canvas, right out in the bush with lots of animals to see, and it was exactly as described....
Read More
The safari was magical, and everything I hoped it would be. I went by myself and didn’t know anyone else in the party, nor had I been to Botswana before. I wanted to be under canvas, right out in the bush with lots of animals to see, and it was exactly as described. You almost get bored with elephants as thee are so many, although of course they are wonderful and endlessly fascinating.The camp staff were fantastic, especially the very knowledgeable driver/guide and the cook, who produced amazing meals on his camp fire and in a tin oven that I couldn’t manage in my fairly well equipped kitchen in London. We even had home made bread and cakes and the best gin and tonics ever (essential after a day in the bush which started at 05.30)! You get a proper comfortable bed and a bucket shower so all mod cons. but with the excitement of lying in your tent listening to all sorts of animal noises during the night, which I loved. The river trip on the last day was amazing. I felt very lucky to be with such as nice group of people too (not guaranteed of course!) but although we were all very different, because of our mutual love of the bush, Africa and animals there was a good chance that we would get along and we have all been in touch since our return.
Close
Matita’s Botswana Safari | Matita
Marcia and Robert's Safari to Zimbabwe, Botswana and South Africa
The highlights were the Victoria Falls Hotel and Linyanti. I can still see us riding in the jeep near the water and watching hippos and seeing the elephants travel through the water against the lovely African sunsets. Africa I think spoils you for other places that you once thought were beautiful. Nothing compares....
Read More
The highlights were the Victoria Falls Hotel and Linyanti. I can still see us riding in the jeep near the water and watching hippos and seeing the elephants travel through the water against the lovely African sunsets. Africa I think spoils you for other places that you once thought were beautiful. Nothing compares.
I explained our disappointment with Delta Camp. I will also add that our guide in Capetown was somewhat problematic. He was extremely political and kept telling us we should see the Townships. We tried to explain that because we are journalists we shoot in ghettos in the US all the time and wanted to get away from that. Still he insisted. On the way back from wine country he played a sermon of the radical Louis Farrakhan at high volume. I’m not sure what he was trying to accomplish but we had to ask him to turn it down. He seemed somewhat knowledgeable about the areas we visited but his stories always came back to his life in one way or another. He was a nice man all in all but a little short sighted. Close
I explained our disappointment with Delta Camp. I will also add that our guide in Capetown was somewhat problematic. He was extremely political and kept telling us we should see the Townships. We tried to explain that because we are journalists we shoot in ghettos in the US all the time and wanted to get away from that. Still he insisted. On the way back from wine country he played a sermon of the radical Louis Farrakhan at high volume. I’m not sure what he was trying to accomplish but we had to ask him to turn it down. He seemed somewhat knowledgeable about the areas we visited but his stories always came back to his life in one way or another. He was a nice man all in all but a little short sighted. Close
Marcia and Robert’s Safari to Zimbabwe, Botswana and South Africa | Marcia and Robert
Mark and Rita's vacation to Zambia and Malawi
Mark and Rita’s vacation to Zambia and Malawi | Mark and Rita
Marsha's Tanzanian Safari
Overall it was fantastic and everything that I would have wanted. Saw lots of animals. While the chimps were amazing I will remember the serval the best....
Read More
Overall it was fantastic and everything that I would have wanted. Saw lots of animals. While the chimps were amazing I will remember the serval the best.
Close
Marsha’s Tanzanian Safari | Marsha
Annabel's South Africa Trip
Annabel’s South Africa Trip | Annabel D.
The Ginsberg family safari to Kenya
Giraffe Manor was definitely a highlight of this family trip. With only a short time for our vacation, we suggest two nights at Giraffe Manor; three nights in the northern part of Kenya; and three nights in the Massai Mara....
Read More
Giraffe Manor was definitely a highlight of this family trip. With only a short time for our vacation, we suggest two nights at Giraffe Manor; three nights in the northern part of Kenya; and three nights in the Massai Mara. Unfortunately, it does take two days travel to and two days travel from the southern part of the US. Learning about the Massai tribe and how they lived was something the kids enjoyed. Seeing all of the animals was a highlight of our trip. We were there during the Wildebeest migration — amazing!!! The people in Kenya are gracious and really enjoyed our being there. They just couldn’t do enough for us. Great trip.
Close
The Ginsberg family safari to Kenya | The Ginsberg Family
Linda's Kenyan Riding Safari
I really had no idea what to expect. It was fantastic… Exciting.. Beautiful, more than I expected. I was glad that I was in physically good shape! Because the riding was constant, walking along on the horses with the surrounding beauty of the elephants, giraffes etc staying quiet and then meeting up with the wildebeest and joining them in a full gallop. Wow, unbelievable!...
Read More
I really had no idea what to expect. It was fantastic… Exciting.. Beautiful, more than I expected. I was glad that I was in physically good shape! Because the riding was constant, walking along on the horses with the surrounding beauty of the elephants, giraffes etc staying quiet and then meeting up with the wildebeest and joining them in a full gallop,Wow, unbelievable!
I must say crossing the Mara River was a thrill knowing the Croc’s and Hippo’s were close by! Our guides Archy and Josh had a tremendous handle on guiding us safely through the maze of beautiful animals that we came across.
The tent accommodations were minimalistic! Truly camping with a twist! Food was really good considering we were moving campsite every few days.
It was incredible way to Safari in Kenya! Close
I must say crossing the Mara River was a thrill knowing the Croc’s and Hippo’s were close by! Our guides Archy and Josh had a tremendous handle on guiding us safely through the maze of beautiful animals that we came across.
The tent accommodations were minimalistic! Truly camping with a twist! Food was really good considering we were moving campsite every few days.
It was incredible way to Safari in Kenya! Close
Linda’s Kenyan Riding Safari | Linda
Michael and Wendy's Holiday to Botswana and South Africa
The best was following a pack of wild dog on a hunt one dog got an Impala and as they had 9 pups the adults stood guard as the pups ate, also one night at Chitabe we were watching a leopard on a kill in a bush when she decided to give us all a real catwalk performance, she left the kill and walked along a dead branch stopped lay across the branch posing for photo’s just like a catwalk model....
Read More
The best was following a pack of wild dog on a hunt one dog got an Impala and as they had 9 pups the adults stood guard as the pups ate, also one night at Chitabe we were watching a leopard on a kill in a bush when she decided to give us all a real catwalk performance, she left the kill and walked along a dead branch stopped lay across the branch posing for photo’s just like a catwalk model.
Close
Michael and Wendy’s Holiday to Botswana and South Africa | Michael and Wendy
The Palmer-Tomkinson Family Holiday to Kenya and Zanzibar
Plenty of highlights: the animals (leopard, cheetah, hyena cubs, elephant, giraffe, hippos), wildebeest migration, sundowners in the middle of nowhere, picnics, walking in the bush (karisia), riding camels, the food, seeing elephant bones, rock climbing...
Read More
Plenty of highlights: the animals (leopard, cheetah, hyena cubs, elephant, giraffe, hippos), wildebeest migration, sundowners in the middle of nowhere, picnics, walking in the bush (karisia), riding camels, the food, seeing elephant bones, rock climbing, kite surfing, scuba diving, private charter flights, experiencing all of the above and more being just us as a family.
Lowlights: one of the children being ill at Kicheche meaning he (and his mother) missed the game drive where we saw a cheetah. Close
Lowlights: one of the children being ill at Kicheche meaning he (and his mother) missed the game drive where we saw a cheetah. Close
The Palmer-Tomkinson Family Holiday to Kenya and Zanzibar | The Palmer-Tomkinson Family
Stewart and Anoushka's South African Honeymoon
Dulini – fab. Queen Victoria – really great position. Quite boutique. definitely not got the vibe of a big hotel, with international brand, but really lovely still. Would definitely recommend tagging on hotel in wineries as a must to these sorts of trips....
Read More
Dulini – fab. Queen Victoria – really great position. Quite boutique. definitely not got the vibe of a big hotel, with international brand, but really lovely still. Would definitely recommend tagging on hotel in wineries as a must to these sorts of trips. We stayed at Le Quartier Francais. A little over-rated. very nice, but quite alternative. The tasting dinner was incredible, but also very weird and although the food really was quite stunning, a lot of the unusual combinations made much of the meal rather sickly. By the end, we were just completely over-done, rather than satisfied. There is so much fab food in SA, I am not sure if this is really worth the money. We had lunch at La Motte and La Petite Ferme over two days – recommend both.
Close
Stewart and Anoushka’s South African Honeymoon | Stewart and Anoushka
Paul and Pamela's Southern Tanzania Holiday
A wonderful holiday that lived up to expectations. Would definitely visit Jongomero and Siwandu again as our preference is to be in the bush. But Ras Kutani an excellent place to stay if you want chill out time after a safari....
Read More
A wonderful holiday that lived up to expectations. Would definitely visit Jongomero and Siwandu again as our preference is to be in the bush. But Ras Kutani an excellent place to stay if you want chill out time after a safari.
Close
Paul and Pamela’s Southern Tanzania Holiday | Paul and Pamela
Marybelle's Kenyan Safari
The safari highlights included every aspect of this trip. The weather, the camp, the accommodations, the staff, the food beginning with the early morning breakfast in my tent, the mid morning breakfast, lunch, the late afternoon tea and of course the evening meals....
Read More
The safari highlights included every aspect of this trip. The weather, the camp, the accommodations, the staff, the food beginning with the early morning breakfast in my tent, the mid morning breakfast, lunch, the late afternoon tea and of course the evening meals. The safari itself was an incredible and exciting time seeing not only four of the big five, but also lots of other animals and birds. The safari guides were fun to be out with on the drives and both shared their knowledge and love of Kenya each day. From the moment the plane touched down, the safari was more than I could have expected or hoped for. Giraffes met the plane, lions feeding their cubs were spotted within the first hour and animal sightings continued. All highs….no lows……the safari was amazing!
Close
Marybelle’s Kenyan Safari | Marybelle
The Estier Family Holiday to Tanzania and Zanzibar
The Serengeti felt very special as we saw all the animals very close with no other people around. Leopard in a tree climbing down, a cheetah, pride of lions with cubes eating a wildebeest then chasing the vultures away....
Read More
The Serengeti felt very special as we saw all the animals very close with no other people around. Leopard in a tree climbing down, a cheetah, pride of lions with cubes eating a wildebeest then chasing the vultures away.
In the Ngorongoro you can’t see them as close and there are many other cars around, but it is a fascinating area, all this ecosystem in one place.
The lake Manyara is again different, you may not see as many animals even tough we saw about everything except lions but the lake, flamingos, vegetation make it an amazing place.
I liked the fact that all 3 places were very different from each other as were the lodges, but each one very unique.
Our guide Paul which we had for 5 day was also very friendly, he knew a lot and was passionate about his work and the animals.
I think it was nice to start with the Serengeti when you are still fresh and full of energy and finish with the Lake, I know usually it’s the other way round but as we had to juggle with the space in the lodges I think it worked out nicely to do it that way.
Next time I would try I tented camp to feel a bit closer to the nature. Close
In the Ngorongoro you can’t see them as close and there are many other cars around, but it is a fascinating area, all this ecosystem in one place.
The lake Manyara is again different, you may not see as many animals even tough we saw about everything except lions but the lake, flamingos, vegetation make it an amazing place.
I liked the fact that all 3 places were very different from each other as were the lodges, but each one very unique.
Our guide Paul which we had for 5 day was also very friendly, he knew a lot and was passionate about his work and the animals.
I think it was nice to start with the Serengeti when you are still fresh and full of energy and finish with the Lake, I know usually it’s the other way round but as we had to juggle with the space in the lodges I think it worked out nicely to do it that way.
Next time I would try I tented camp to feel a bit closer to the nature. Close
The Estier Family Holiday to Tanzania and Zanzibar | The Estier Family
Patrick's South African Safari
Victoria and the team at Aardvark did a fantastic job planning my safari. They are real pros and leave nothing to chance. The drivers were right on time to transport me and things ran like clockwork. Having been to the lodges, they had first hand knowledge and knowing my preferences and time available picked the perfect lodges for my trip....
Read More
Victoria and the team at Aardvark did a fantastic job planning my safari. They are real pros and leave nothing to chance. The drivers were right on time to transport me and things ran like clockwork. Having been to the lodges, they had first hand knowledge and knowing my preferences and time available picked the perfect lodges for my trip. This is the second safari I have booked through Aardvark and I highly recommend John and Victoria. I can’t wait until my next safari.
Close
Patrick’s South African Safari | Patrick
I listed some highlights on the lodge individual reviews. The trip was fantastic. We loved everywhere we stayed, and had a very hard time rating one place over another, because they all offered such different things. It was a great mix. We felt so well pr...
Read More
I listed some highlights on the lodge individual reviews. The trip was fantastic. We loved everywhere we stayed, and had a very hard time rating one place over another, because they all offered such different things. It was a great mix. We felt so well prepared by Aardvark, and appreciate the time both John and Tracy took with us before the trip. There were a lot of logistics involved, and everything went like clockwork. Pretty amazing to me!
Close
| Betsy and Caroline
Andy and Lesley's Kenyan vacation
To be so close to all those animals ‘in real life’ was exciting. We witnessed how harsh the circle of life can be. C’est la vie. Observed a leopard kill a dik dik at night. We were impressed by the logistics of the vacation. Taxi drivers in Nairobi good and on the last night he was excellent...
Read More
To be so close to all those animals ‘in real life’ was exciting. We witnessed how harsh the circle of life can be. C’est la vie. Observed a leopard kill a dik dik at night. We were impressed by the logistics of the vacation. Taxi drivers in Nairobi good and on the last night he was excellent (sorry have forgotten his name) I am sure he was amused when I insisted on buying him coffee/cake and taking it out the store to the car where he remained having insisted on guarding the luggage! Andrew had a huge rapport with one pilot who flew us into Sarara. Lesley did not like flying high in small planes. The best low level flight was upon arrival into Kicheche. The rest of the flights although described as low level could not be sadly due to turbulence. However each pilot was always concerned for our welfare and appreciated Lesley’s illogical fear of small planes.
Too much food – yet we partook of everything!! Says it all. Loved the idea of sundowners, the private dinner in the dark in the river bed. We did not have a day we did not enjoy. Felt very relaxed at both camps. Liked the way we could choose how to spend each day. Very personalized. Felt as though we had gone back in time to British colonialism at times eg hot tea in flasks etc – wonderful. No ill health or holiday related anything. Enjoyed knowing that conservation eg few plastic water bottles is important. Hated the commercialism of the traffic/ignorant visitors and unprofessional drivers around the Mara migration/crossing area. The Kenyan Govt might do well to restrict some traffic although the tourism income is appreciated. It’s a fine balance. If only all drivers were well trained like our guide. The Chinese contingent were particularly obnoxious and clearly need educating on how to behave ie DO NOT have music blaring out of ones van like an ice cream seller; peeing behind one’s van in front of anyone (Lesley is an RN so not perturbed just angry) is not appropriate behaviour and might easily offend the Kenyan culture; painting one’s camp white is not the best idea given its location.
Close
Andy and Lesley’s Kenyan vacation | Andy and Lesley
Gary and Kay's safari to Rwanda, Tanzania and Kenya
Looking at the entire package, I felt it was a perfect balance chronologically and in its duration, especially since we had previously been to Southern Africa and had seen the Big Five with heavy emphasis on predators....
Read More
Looking at the entire package, I felt it was a perfect balance chronologically and in its duration, especially since we had previously been to Southern Africa and had seen the Big Five with heavy emphasis on predators. If Ol Donyo had been my first introduction to Africa, I might have been disappointed with the paucity of animals, but as the rich dessert at the end of a banquet it was perfect. Rwanda being first, with the transition from city to country, and viewing only one species of animal, then on to the big numbers in the Serengeti was essential. Our pilots were great and travel was very smooth.
Close
Gary and Kay’s safari to Rwanda, Tanzania and Kenya | Gary and Kay
Rochelle's Safari to Zambia and Botswana
The horseback riding was unbelievable. We really enjoyed all our rides (except the one where the guy was evacuated by helicopter after an accident). The horses were well kept and incredibly fit. They were a lot of fun to ride and very obedient....
Read More
The horseback riding was unbelievable. We really enjoyed all our rides (except the one where the guy was evacuated by helicopter after an accident). The horses were well kept and incredibly fit. They were a lot of fun to ride and very obedient. I would recommend this for expert riders only (not intermediate) as there is a lot of galloping on rough terrain with turns, jumps and obstacles to duck and steer around. Galloping through the water was fantastic. We saw a surprising amount of game on the horses – kudu, tsesabee, impala, hippos, elephants, giraffes, zebras, cape buffalo, warthogs, etc. Three riders out of twelve fell off in three days, and I believe all were very experienced riders. The camp won’t be surprised if you pass this along to them, but I don’t believe we need to get as close to the elephants as we did. It just creates an element of danger that is not needed. The tents were very comfortable, although it was super hot during the daytime we were able to wet a blanket and nap under it. It cooled off enough at night to use blankets (dry). All the meals were outdoors, and it was quite buggy because it rained on the first day, so I definitely recommend long sleeve shirts and pants for night time. No mosquitoes, though. The food was ok, not great, but it’s pretty far out in the bush to expect great food. I also think the chef was absent? The salads and quiches were very good. They did run out of a food a few meals, so they might prepare a bit more in the future. We’d have toast and cereal at 6 a.m., ride for four + hours then have a light lunch at noon, when we were really hungry. Tea was at 4:30, we’d ride again from 5 to 7 and have dinner at 8. I had packed a few protein bars and was glad. They did one lunch out in the bush in a tree stand up high, which was very very cool. This camp was quite an adventure and three nights there was perfect. Some guests were staying for a week or more and we thought that would be way too much. There were a lot of Brits and they were a blast, much more fun than Americans. On an odd note, I was very impressed with how quickly the medical helicopter arrived.
Close
Rochelle’s Safari to Zambia and Botswana | Rochelle
Betsy and Caroline's safari to Kenya and Rwanda
I listed some highlights on the lodge individual reviews. The trip was fantastic. We loved everywhere we stayed, and had a very hard time rating one place over another, because they all offered such different things. It was a great mix....
Read More
I listed some highlights on the lodge individual reviews. The trip was fantastic. We loved everywhere we stayed, and had a very hard time rating one place over another, because they all offered such different things. It was a great mix. We felt so well prepared by Aardvark, and appreciate the time both John and Tracy took with us before the trip. There were a lot of logistics involved, and everything went like clockwork. Pretty amazing to me!
Close
Betsy and Caroline’s safari to Kenya and Rwanda | Betsy and Caroline
The Gutleber's Seychelles Holiday
The Gutleber’s Seychelles Holiday | Dave and Cheryl
Anne's Safari to Victoria Falls and Botswana
The guide and camp staff were all excellent. They were cheerful, efficient and capable. The camp itself was basic but comfortable and the staff did all they could to provide us with a good experience out in the bush. The food was delicious and we enjoyed a variety of meals all cooked in a bush kitchen....
Read More
The guide and camp staff were all excellent. They were cheerful, efficient and capable. The camp itself was basic but comfortable and the staff did all they could to provide us with a good experience out in the bush. The food was delicious and we enjoyed a variety of meals all cooked in a bush kitchen. Meals included stews, vegetables, pizza, cakes, freshly-baked breads and biscuits to name but a few.
Our guide was absolutely superb and it was due to his skills and patience that we managed to see the large amount of wildlife that we did in such a short time. I would certainly recommend Letaka Safaris to anyone interested in wildlife and conservation. Close
Our guide was absolutely superb and it was due to his skills and patience that we managed to see the large amount of wildlife that we did in such a short time. I would certainly recommend Letaka Safaris to anyone interested in wildlife and conservation. Close
Anne’s Safari to Victoria Falls and Botswana | Anne
John and Juliet's Safari to Zimbabwe
John and Juliet’s Safari to Zimbabwe | John and Juliet
The Oden Family Holiday to Zambia and Malawi
Excellent game viewing in Zambia. Lake Malawi beautiful. Friendly people. Wished we’d seen more of the countries and gotten more of a feel for them outside of camps and hotels – it felt very ‘fly in/fly out’ which is not what we do most of on holidays and we really really like ‘the bits in between’....
Read More
Excellent game viewing in Zambia. Lake Malawi beautiful. Friendly people. Wished we’d seen more of the countries and gotten more of a feel for them outside of camps and hotels – it felt very ‘fly in/fly out’ which is not what we do most of on holidays and we really really like ‘the bits in between’.
Close
The Oden Family Holiday to Zambia and Malawi | The Oden Family
Tina's Tanzanian Safari
This was my 4th safari and it becomes harder to remember what you’ve seen on each one. I will always have a soft spot for my 1st safari in Botswana (mobile camping) as you just can’t ever repeat the first time you see these animals in the wild....
Read More
This was my 4th safari and it becomes harder to remember what you’ve seen on each one. I will always have a soft spot for my 1st safari in Botswana (mobile camping) as you just can’t ever repeat the first time you see these animals in the wild. Having said that I think I probably saw the most game ever on this trip. I know everyone obsesses about seeing the big cats but I really enjoyed seeing so many giraffes. In both camps, animals would be seen in camp every day and you can’t beat the experience of getting back to your tent after lunch and finding a bull elephant virtually on your tent doorstep!
Close
Tina’s Tanzanian Safari | Tina
Shirley and Derek's Holiday to South Africa
Amazing!! Everything was just great! Highlight was the safari, Ngala was excellent would definitely recommend. Loved our ranger and all staff there made it really special for us. The quality and service everywhere we went was just fab!...
Read More
Amazing!! Everything was just great! Highlight was the safari, Ngala was excellent would definitely recommend. Loved our ranger and all staff there made it really special for us. The quality and service everywhere we went was just fab! Best I have seen anywhere. We will certainly be returning to SA sometime. Just one problem we ate and drank to much wine! We loved Franschhoek too and Cape Town was just great. Everywhere was better than I thought it would be, so a big thank you.
Close
Shirley and Derek’s Holiday to South Africa | Shirley and Derek
Joe and Diane’s South African Culinary Adventure
Joe and Diane’s South African Culinary Adventure | Joe and Diane
Louise and Forrest's Safari to Rwanda, Tanzania and Kenya
Getting “whacked” on the calf by a juvenile gorilla — fantastic!
Watching the vet hired by Big Life treat an elephant wounded by local farmers at Ol Donyo — and hearing about plans for an electric fence to keep elephants and farmers apart.... Read More
Watching the vet hired by Big Life treat an elephant wounded by local farmers at Ol Donyo — and hearing about plans for an electric fence to keep elephants and farmers apart.... Read More
Getting “whacked” on the calf by a juvenile gorilla — fantastic!
Watching the vet hired by Big Life treat an elephant wounded by local farmers at Ol Donyo — and hearing about plans for an electric fence to keep elephants and farmers apart. Close
Watching the vet hired by Big Life treat an elephant wounded by local farmers at Ol Donyo — and hearing about plans for an electric fence to keep elephants and farmers apart. Close
Louise and Forrest’s Safari to Rwanda, Tanzania and Kenya | Louise and Forrest
Shubho's Riding Safari to Botswana
I don’t have enough superlatives to describe how unforgettable this trip was. I dream of going back there everyday! There are too many highlights to mention but if I have to choose – I will choose the experience of cantering across the delta hot on the heels of a giraffe....
Read More
I don’t have enough superlatives to describe how unforgettable this trip was. I dream of going back there everyday! There are too many highlights to mention but if I have to choose – I will choose the experience of cantering across the delta hot on the heels of a giraffe. Those long canters through water and bush are so addictive and I can’t say enough about the fantastic horses that let us experience this wonderful adventure!
Close
Shubho’s Riding Safari to Botswana | Shubho
Nick and Patty's Tanzanian Safari
Expectations were seriously high before we went yet we were blown away by how far they were exceeded. Tarangire – a wonderful introduction to our safari. Ngorongoro Crater – glad that we went but crowded and much of the wildlife is rather distant. Northern Serengeti – the absolute best experience ever....
Read More
Expectations were seriously high before we went yet we were blown away by how far they were exceeded. Tarangire – a wonderful introduction to our safari. Ngorongoro Crater – glad that we went but crowded and much of the wildlife is rather distant. Northern Serengeti – the absolute best experience ever. We spent over an hour up close and personal with a cheetah and her cub, including the hunt, kill and meal. Also spent well over an hour with a black rhino and her baby (very ET-like). Unlike the other parks, you drive ‘off piste’ in the Serengeti and this greatly enhances the experience. So much wildlife and so completely removed from modern day life. Most of Tanzania hasn’t even reached emerging economy status so in terms of going somewhere totally unspoiled, this is it. Stone Town, Zanzibar – (not strictly part of the safari) but our advice is to skip Stone Town and go to a beach resort instead.
Close
Nick and Patty’s Tanzanian Safari | Nick and Patty
Sam and Kelly's South African Culinary Adventure
This trip could (and should) be duplicated exactly. Just do exactly what we did and you’ll be blown away. In fact we’re smiling just thinking about it.....
Read More
This trip could (and should) be duplicated exactly. Just do exactly what we did and you’ll be blown away. In fact we’re smiling just thinking about it..
Close
Sam and Kelly’s South African Culinary Adventure | Sam and Kelly
The Bradshaw Family Safari
Self drive to our two camps in South Africa and Botswana. Loved the adventure of finding our way and negotiating detours due to closed roads, the extra hour we allowed ourselves was well used. Crossing the border at Pont Drift was an experience for all of us used to airports and so much more exciting....
Read More
Self drive to our two camps in South Africa and Botswana. Loved the adventure of finding our way and negotiating detours due to closed roads, the extra hour we allowed ourselves was well used. Crossing the border at Pont Drift was an experience for all of us used to airports and so much more exciting. As always excellent instructions from Aardvark. Major highlight were the leopards. Almost more leopards than sunsets!
Close
The Bradshaw Family Safari | The Bradshaw Family
Renee and Brent's vacation to Kenya and Zanzibar
Renee and Brent’s vacation to Kenya and Zanzibar | Renee and Brent
Robert and Lynda's Kenyan Safari
So many highlights: Leopard dragging its kill down the tree. Sunrise on a pride of lions feasting on their morning kill. Lion cubs play fighting over a bone! Watching the sun go down as a mother cheetah and 3 tiny cubs tuck into their dinner. Zebras on their hind legs fighting. Giraffes neck banging....
Read More
So many highlights: Leopard dragging its kill down the tree. Sunrise on a pride of lions feasting on their morning kill. Lion cubs play fighting over a bone! Watching the sun go down as a mother cheetah and 3 tiny cubs tuck into their dinner. Zebras on their hind legs fighting. Giraffes neck banging. Baby baboon clinging tightly to it’s mother. Baby Warthogs. Herds of magnificent elephants. 13 Wild dog pups waiting to be fed, then the frenzy when adults came back with food. The amazing sight of wildebeest and zebra striding out with a purpose across the savannah. Huge Rhino and Buffalo. Fish Eagles skimming across the watering hole at Laikipia. Two eagle owls perched on a branch. Sitting having breakfast in the bush and looking out across the plains. Cheeky jackals and spotted hyena. Memories to last a lifetime. Sad we didn’t see an Aardvark but there were plenty of their holes!!
Close
Robert and Lynda’s Kenyan Safari | Robert and Lynda
Kay's Botswana Safari
It should be obvious from the above comments that I had the greatest trip. It all went to plan (as all safaris do that you have organised for me), and I just wish that I had gone for a bit longer and maybe added in another camp. It was a special trip as it was the first time I have been on safari on my own, and I was surprised by how easy it all felt....
Read More
It should be obvious from the above comments that I had the greatest trip. It all went to plan (as all safaris do that you have organised for me), and I just wish that I had gone for a bit longer and maybe added in another camp. It was a special trip as it was the first time I have been on safari on my own, and I was surprised by how easy it all felt. Both camps looked after me so well, and it actually is the perfect thing to do as a single traveller. I’m sure a lot of it has to do with the other people in camp, and maybe I just got lucky, but I met some great people, had some interesting conversations, and never felt like the odd one out. If I was forced to give any negative comment (and I am loathe to do so) it would be to say that the food at Lebala Camp could be improved. The food at Duba Plains was exceptional, so perhaps Lebala just suffered by comparison…. Honestly, in my opinion it was the perfect trip.
Close
Kay’s Botswana Safari | Kay
Ans and Donna's Holiday to South Africa
Absolutely fabulous holiday. Could not have wanted more. No lows. It was made better by everybody we met. The staff at the the two lodges, and at Cape Grace were always so nice to us, and helped and interacted just the right amount.Seeing the young animals was great – new born (hours old) giraffe and zebra, young rhino and hyena....
Read More
Absolutely fabulous holiday. Could not have wanted more. No lows. It was made better by everybody we met. The staff at the the two lodges, and at Cape Grace were always so nice to us, and helped and interacted just the right amount. Seeing the young animals was great- new born (hours old) giraffe and zebra. Young Rhino and hyena. And the bird calls. We still wander round saying “work harder”. The landscape around the two lodges complimented each other, and so were a good combination for a single holiday. We did the right thing having private guides. And going to Cape Town at the end was good as we did need time to unwind before getting back to work. The only regret was not giving ourselves more independence in Cape Town with our own driver, rather than guide (our fault, not his).
Close
Ans and Donna’s Holiday to South Africa | Ans and Donna
Deborah and Poppy's Botswana Riding Safari
It is a long journey but it all went very smoothly. We had a lovely warm welcome when we arrived in the camp and our whole week was enormous fun and very memorable. The tents were very comfortable and the food simple but good....
Read More
It is a long journey but it all went very smoothly. We had a lovely warm welcome when we arrived in the camp and our whole week was enormous fun and very memorable. The tents were very comfortable and the food simple but good. Everyone in the camp worked very hard to make our stay a good one and the staff bent over backwards to help in any way they could. We had an excellent guide who was both fun and patient! The rides were longer in the morning with a lot more cantering and certainly the other people on our ride (no more than 7 guests in a ride) were of an equivalent capability. We saw a lot of game during the course of the week but some days were quieter than others which made it all the more exciting when we suddenly spotted a herd of elephant or some giraffe. The highlight of our week was when our guide spotted 2 leopard cubs in the grass and mum hiding behind a termite mound peering suspiciously at us until she jumped up and ran off. Other highlights were seeing a pack of wild dog, watching and running with giraffe and observing the elephants with their young. The horses were well trained and responsive and appeared in good health. I would love to return at a different time of year when there is more water so we gain a totally different experience.
Close
Deborah and Poppy’s Botswana Riding Safari | Deborah and Poppy
The Over Family's Botswana Riding Safari
We had a fantastic family holiday. I was looking for a holiday which all three of my children would enjoy. With two now working and one a student it is increasingly difficult to get them all together in one place let alone find a holiday that suited all tastes....
Read More
We had a fantastic family holiday. I was looking for a holiday which all three of my children would enjoy. With two now working and one a student it is increasingly difficult to get them all together in one place let alone find a holiday that suited all tastes. Our riding safari combined a very active holiday with an ever changing canopy of wildlife. They didn’t even complain about the 5.30am wake up calls. We would leave camp and within five minutes be surrounded by elephants and giraffes, it was an extraordinary experience. We saw literally hundreds of animals and it felt as if we were riding through a film set. The horses were first class and some care was taken to match them to our riding ability. They were forward going and beautifully turned out. The camp staff were unfailingly brilliant and our every need was catered for with picnics appearing in the bush as if by magic complete with cool boxes and sunbeds. Swimming in rivers, walking through the bush, trying to remember half of the hundreds of bird names, trying to spot an animal before the guides did and being gently advised it was yet another bush….. it was all great fun. At the end of each day a dinner worthy of a good restaurant would be served which is extraordinary when you realise the nearest source of foodstuffs is three hours drive away. We didn’t see another person other than the camp staff in the week, it was marvellous.
Close
The Over Family’s Botswana Riding Safari | The Over Family
Mike and Margaret's Zambian Safari
The highlights were some spectacular sightings at Kaingo & Tena Tena.
The Carmine Bee-eaters from the hide at Kaingo were one of the reasons we chose that camp & we were not disappointed. Elephants crossing the river between lots of Hippos was spectacular as was the large pride of lions with cubs & the mating pair.... Read More
The Carmine Bee-eaters from the hide at Kaingo were one of the reasons we chose that camp & we were not disappointed. Elephants crossing the river between lots of Hippos was spectacular as was the large pride of lions with cubs & the mating pair.... Read More
The highlights were some spectacular sightings at Kaingo & Tena Tena.
The Carmine Bee-eaters from the hide at Kaingo were one of the reasons we chose that camp & we were not disappointed. Elephants crossing the river between lots of Hippos was spectacular as was the large pride of lions with cubs & the mating pair.
At Tena Tena, lions feeding on the Hippo was spectacular. Crocodiles feeding on the dead Hippo was interesting & quite touching as other Hippos kept coming to touch the body of the dead Hippo. The 2 male impalas fighting was unforgettable – we just happened to be in the right place at the right time. Close
The Carmine Bee-eaters from the hide at Kaingo were one of the reasons we chose that camp & we were not disappointed. Elephants crossing the river between lots of Hippos was spectacular as was the large pride of lions with cubs & the mating pair.
At Tena Tena, lions feeding on the Hippo was spectacular. Crocodiles feeding on the dead Hippo was interesting & quite touching as other Hippos kept coming to touch the body of the dead Hippo. The 2 male impalas fighting was unforgettable – we just happened to be in the right place at the right time. Close
Mike and Margaret’s Zambian Safari | Mike and Margaret
The Potter Family Holiday to South Africa
A little difficult to put into words about our experience in South Africa. What I can say is that it will be a holiday that we will never forget. A venture to a new continent brought excitement, intrepidation and above all, quality family time for all. Ou...
Read More
A little difficult to put into words about our experience in South Africa. What I can say is that it will be a holiday that we will never forget. A venture to a new continent brought excitement, intrepidation and above all, quality family time for all. Our family of six hired a minibus to travel from Port Elizabeth (via Kwandwe Game Reserve) to Cape Town, with various stops along the way, allowing us to experience the south coast of this amazing country. Unfortunately, the two weeks went so quickly and the videos and photos have been replayed over and over again.
Close
The Potter Family Holiday to South Africa | The Potter Family
The Ashton Family Holiday to Kenya, Tanzania and Mozambique
A great trip. Two wonderful lodges in the Selous where we saw an incredible number of birds and our first ever lion kill. Followed by the fascinating Ibo island and the wonderfully relaxing stay at Quilalea. An excellent combination....
Read More
A great trip. Two wonderful lodges in the Selous where we saw an incredible number of birds and our first ever lion kill. Followed by the fascinating Ibo island and the wonderfully relaxing stay at Quilalea. An excellent combination.
Close
The Ashton Family Holiday to Kenya, Tanzania and Mozambique | The Ashton Family
Sheila and Catherine's Holiday to the Seychelles
A fantastic trip which enabled us to visit three very different islands. The whole experience was wonderful, excellent planning and we were totally safe to walk/cycle/drive whilst exploring....
Read More
A fantastic trip which enabled us to visit three very different islands. The whole experience was wonderful, excellent planning and we were totally safe to walk/cycle/drive whilst exploring.
Close
Sheila and Catherine’s Holiday to the Seychelles | Sheila and Catherine
John and Morag's Holiday to Tanzania and Zanzibar
The highlight for me was our walking safari in the early morning after our night at Beho Beho treehouse, when we met two bull elephants which were in must. The adrenaline rush was amazing!...
Read More
The highlight for me was our walking safari in the early morning after our night at Beho Beho treehouse, when we met two bull elephants which were in must. The adrenaline rush was amazing! We also saw a lion kill as we left Mwagusi to catch our plane, 3 lions had killed a zebra, we also saw a cheetah and a leopard on that same short safari.
Close
John and Morag’s Holiday to Tanzania and Zanzibar | John and Morag
Holly's Tuli Riding Safari
Words can not describe how fantastic Botswana was! We had West as our guide who was brilliant, there is nothing about Botswana that he couldn’t tell us. Our back up guide was Tsaone, also amazing. They took great care of us – which we needed a couple of times, especially when we were charged by an elephant and had to make a very swift get away!...
Read More
Words can not describe how fantastic Botswana was!
We had West as our guide who was brilliant, there is nothing about Botswana that he couldn’t tell us. Our back up guide was Tsaone, also amazing. They took great care of us – which we needed a couple of times, especially when we were charged by an elephant and had to make a very swift get away! We had to quickly follow Tsaone whilst West bravely let her the opposite way, we then leapt down the biggest bank (described aptly by someone as Limpopo’s equivalent to the Hickstead Bank). It was agonising waiting for West to rejoin us safely but she was persistent and crept up on us again. We all galloped again for our lives! The sound of her trumpeting will stay with me forever. It was scary but so exciting at the same time! You definitely realised how real it all was at that point and definitely an experience you wouldn’t get in a regular jeep safari!
We saw every animal possible, even had elephant, hyena, monkeys and more coming into the camp. The first night an elephant decided to crash through the camp to take a drink from the pool, myself and Emma were petrified peeking out the tent window in the middle of the night. Waking up to lions roaring most mornings was something I never thought would happen!
All the support staff deserve a special mention, they looked after us fantastically, we wanted for nothing. They also cared for the horses so well and was lovely to see how much time they spent with them. The horses were brilliant, well schooled and mannered, it was a sad farewell at the end. The riding was fast, with long canters across the plains – 7 hours flew by!
Close
Holly’s Tuli Riding Safari | Holly
Cynthia's Holiday to Zambia and Botswana
The Letaka mobile safari was all I had hoped for and more. We were a small group of 6 which was just right – I believe the maximum number is 9 and I’m not sure how good that would be with 2 people having to sit inside the vehicle, i.e. in the middle of 3 people....
Read More
The Letaka mobile safari was all I had hoped for and more. We were a small group of 6 which was just right – I believe the maximum number is 9 and I’m not sure how good that would be with 2 people having to sit inside the vehicle, i.e. in the middle of 3 people. Our guide, Shadrak, was very knowledgeable, great company and nothing was too much trouble for him. We had wonderful wildlife sightings which will stay with me for ever. The camp crew were also excellent, particularly the cook who produced amazing food from a few pots over an open fire. The tents and en suite ablution area were adequate, but the bed was a little uncomfortable and in fact mine collapsed in the middle of one night. If you are travelling alone I thoroughly recommend this safari as you are soon part of a small group having a great adventure in the African bush.
Close
Cynthia’s Holiday to Zambia and Botswana | Cynthia
The Ferguson Family Holiday to Zambia and Malawi
We travelled from Scotland to Zambia & Malawi in August 2013…. Bryan, Jan & Beth (16). As this was not our first safari trip we had some kind of idea as what to expect. The journey was quite long, but we know it is just a means to an end....
Read More
We travelled from Scotland to Zambia & Malawi in August
2013…. Bryan, Jan & Beth (16). As this was not our first safari trip we
had some kind of idea as what to expect. The journey was quite long, but we
know it is just a means to an end… Kenyan Airways would not be my first
choice when travelling this route again ! This trip was possibly our last
family holiday together so with that in mind we arrived in Zambia eager to soak
up the sights and sounds of Africa. Zambia and the South Luangwa valley
provided us with a fantastic safari experience. We loved every camp we visited
as they all offer different experiences. If pushed, Mchenja was the highlight,
as we saw so much and the people in camp were great company… just make sure
and ask them to leave the wine bottles on the table at dinner ! Kaya Mawa on
Likoma Island is my all time favourite. Close
2013…. Bryan, Jan & Beth (16). As this was not our first safari trip we
had some kind of idea as what to expect. The journey was quite long, but we
know it is just a means to an end… Kenyan Airways would not be my first
choice when travelling this route again ! This trip was possibly our last
family holiday together so with that in mind we arrived in Zambia eager to soak
up the sights and sounds of Africa. Zambia and the South Luangwa valley
provided us with a fantastic safari experience. We loved every camp we visited
as they all offer different experiences. If pushed, Mchenja was the highlight,
as we saw so much and the people in camp were great company… just make sure
and ask them to leave the wine bottles on the table at dinner ! Kaya Mawa on
Likoma Island is my all time favourite. Close
The Ferguson Family Holiday to Zambia and Malawi | The Ferguson Family
Elyse and Alex's Holiday to South Africa
Elyse and Alex’s Holiday to South Africa | Elyse and Alex
I am still stunned by the quality of the equestrian offering at Sasakwa, and the glorious riding country around the Grumeti reserve. It’s a stunning place with lots of wide open plains for fast canters, and lots of wildlife to see as well....
Read More
I am still stunned by the quality of the equestrian offering at Sasakwa, and the glorious riding country around the Grumeti reserve. It’s a stunning place with lots of wide open plains for fast canters, and lots of wildlife to see as well. We saw so much here from our horses, and enjoyed many fast rides, as well as incredible food served miles from the lodge in private spots in the bush. Truly outstanding memories which will last a lifetime.
Close
| The Wallaces
Singita Grumeti Riding is a private mobile riding safari that takes you from Sasakwa Lodge to camp outs then on to other lodges, all the while riding through starkly varied areas with mixed habitats. It’s super luxurious to boot....
Read More
Singita Grumeti Riding is a private mobile riding safari that takes you from Sasakwa Lodge to camp outs then on to other lodges, all the while riding through starkly varied areas with mixed habitats. It’s super luxurious to boot.
Close
| Alice Gully
Maurice's Kenyan Safari Holiday
I saw all I wanted to see and compiled a folder of first class photographs. Leopards were seen from all three camps and rhinos from two. The Big Five were seen on one game drive. Lions galore, with kills....
Read More
I saw all I wanted to see and compiled a folder of first class photographs.
Leopards were seen from all three camps and rhinos from two. The Big Five were seen on one game drive. Lions galore, with kills.
Missed the big Mara River crossings (we picked the wrong days) but have seen them previously and got the smaller ones at the Talek. Didn’t see an aardvark but didn’t expect to. Saw one at Laikipia a few years ago. You need good guides and luck for game viewing and I had both this time.
I did find the camp transfers a little tiring, particularly the round-the-camp tours by Otter aircraft before landing at Meru, but worth it.
Particularly appreciated the last day visits to Karen Blixen Museum and Giraffe Centre under the guidance of driver Jane who made the airport despite torrential rain and gridlocked traffic. She even produced an umbrella.
All three camps noted my age and gave me a tent close to reception and dining areas. Unnecessary but appreciated. Masai drivers, trackers and general staff were solicitous and obliging. I would heartily recommend all three camps to anyone seeking to be more integrated into the African scene as opposed to the artificial atmosphere generated by some lodges and hotels. Only increasing years and airport hassles plus home commitments would prevent me returning. We will have to see where we are next year. Close
Leopards were seen from all three camps and rhinos from two. The Big Five were seen on one game drive. Lions galore, with kills.
Missed the big Mara River crossings (we picked the wrong days) but have seen them previously and got the smaller ones at the Talek. Didn’t see an aardvark but didn’t expect to. Saw one at Laikipia a few years ago. You need good guides and luck for game viewing and I had both this time.
I did find the camp transfers a little tiring, particularly the round-the-camp tours by Otter aircraft before landing at Meru, but worth it.
Particularly appreciated the last day visits to Karen Blixen Museum and Giraffe Centre under the guidance of driver Jane who made the airport despite torrential rain and gridlocked traffic. She even produced an umbrella.
All three camps noted my age and gave me a tent close to reception and dining areas. Unnecessary but appreciated. Masai drivers, trackers and general staff were solicitous and obliging. I would heartily recommend all three camps to anyone seeking to be more integrated into the African scene as opposed to the artificial atmosphere generated by some lodges and hotels. Only increasing years and airport hassles plus home commitments would prevent me returning. We will have to see where we are next year. Close
Maurice’s Kenyan Safari Holiday | Maurice
A Private Kilimanjaro Climb
A Private Kilimanjaro Climb | Tracy Stevens
The McAuley Family Safari to Kenya
A fantastic experience, exceeding all our expectations. With the relaxation and friendliness of Richards Camp it felt like we were stopping with friends living in a wildlife wilderness.
We saw everything. All the big five, a Mara crossing, Leopards mating, a pride 22 lions immediately after a kill.... Read More
We saw everything. All the big five, a Mara crossing, Leopards mating, a pride 22 lions immediately after a kill.... Read More
A fantastic experience, exceeding all our expectations. With the relaxation and friendliness of Richards Camp it felt like we were stopping with friends living in a wildlife wilderness.
We saw everything. All the big five, a Mara crossing, Leopards mating, a pride 22 lions immediately after a kill.
I managed a very short cycle safari/ride in Borana, which was fantastic. We did try one as a family the afternoon before however Liz came off and hurt herself. Close
We saw everything. All the big five, a Mara crossing, Leopards mating, a pride 22 lions immediately after a kill.
I managed a very short cycle safari/ride in Borana, which was fantastic. We did try one as a family the afternoon before however Liz came off and hurt herself. Close
The McAuley Family Safari to Kenya | The McAuley Family
The Mocatta Family Holiday to Mauritius
The villa with the butler – by Day two, while everyone one else was playing golf or still asleep, the butler had already laid out a towel on the lounger and brought me tea on a tray by the Indian Ocean. I played a game with myself every day trying to sneak out quietly – and always got perfect tea within five minutes....
Read More
The villa with the butler – by Day two, while everyone one else was playing golf or still asleep, the butler had already laid out a towel on the lounger and brought me tea on a tray by the Indian Ocean. I played a game with myself every day trying to sneak out quietly – and always got perfect tea within five minutes. For two weeks a year this is a perfect – if entirely unreal – brilliant taste of Paradise!
Everyone – adults and children whose ages have ranges from 6 to 22 wants to go back. Close
Everyone – adults and children whose ages have ranges from 6 to 22 wants to go back. Close
The Mocatta Family Holiday to Mauritius | The Mocatta Family
Absolutely fantastic – I’m going back for the third time this fall! Philip and Gerti are outstanding horsepeople and hosts. I’ve ridden elsewhere in Africa, and I must say that the quality, training, and hearts of the horses at Wait A Little are just over the top....
Read More
Absolutely fantastic – I’m going back for the third time this fall! Philip and Gerti are outstanding horsepeople and hosts. I’ve ridden elsewhere in Africa, and I must say that the quality, training, and hearts of the horses at Wait A Little are just over the top. Riding with rhino, lions, hippos, elephants and giraffe is a life-changing experience – I am forever ruined for a safari by vehicle!
Close
| Susan
Wait a Little Riding Safaris is all about lots of robust riding alongside dangerous game–loads of lion and elephant sightings on horseback. It’s great for experienced riders and hasvery well schooled horses. All in all, very strong riding, wildlife and hosting....
Read More
Wait a Little Riding Safaris is all about lots of robust riding alongside dangerous game–loads of lion and elephant sightings on horseback. It’s great for experienced riders and has very well schooled horses. All in all, very strong riding, wildlife and hosting.
Close
| Charlie Swanson
I couldn’t fault a thing and was so, so sad to leave, we have a piggy bank going to raise funds for a return trip. I can’t pick out a favourite thing either, I loved all the horses, the team, the food, the massages, the camp, the warthogs – you name it!...
Read More
I couldn’t fault a thing and was so, so sad to leave, we have a piggy bank going to raise funds for a return trip. I can’t pick out a favourite thing either, I loved all the horses, the team, the food, the massages, the camp, the warthogs – you name it!
Close
| Suse
Ant’s Hill Lodge is stunning and so well done. With massive living and dining areas it provides a lovely, relaxed atmosphere for couples or single travelers, as there is enough space to do your own thing....
Read More
Ant’s Hill Lodge is stunning and so well done. With massive living and dining areas it provides a lovely, relaxed atmosphere for couples or single travelers, as there is enough space to do your own thing. Ant’s Nest has the atmosphere of a classic African homestead and is a more intimate affair that provides a “real home from home” experience. My two rides could not have been more different. The first was just Henno and I so we galloped around all over the place, along newly graded fire break tracks. The second was with young kids who had never ridden before so we walked pretty much all the way. It’s fantastic how Ant’s offers riding to such a wide audience. The game viewing from horseback is exceptional, largely because the horses graze out with and are used to the game. Henno and I were within touching distance of white rhino and giraffe, which was amazing!
Close
| Charlie Swanson
The Namibia Desert Ride was the most AWESOME and memorable thing I have ever done. The beauty of the landscape and terrain is a privilege few can comprehend. Majestic night camps to top of a long days ride with a few good drinks, great food and company....
Read More
The Namibia Desert Ride was the most ‘AWESOME’ and memorable thing I have ever done. The beauty of the landscape and terrain is a privilege few can comprehend. Majestic night camps to top of a long days ride with a few good drinks, great food and company. The staff were great and the brilliant horses who never complained and got us all to our destination safely, will never forget those canters…yehaaaaa forever grateful.
Close
| Eliza
Namibia Horse Safari Company provides some really remote riding through rugged, wired open areas. At night, camp is pretty basic but comfortable. Not for inexperienced riders but a proper adventure!...
Read More
Namibia Horse Safari Company provides some really remote riding through rugged, wired open areas. At night, camp is pretty basic but comfortable. Not for inexperienced riders but a proper adventure!
Close
| Charlie Swanson
This week has greatly surpassed all my expectations and I have loved the cool morning rides, meeting zebra and giraffe on the way, the leopard, tracking lion, seeing hippo day and night, the walking, camping in the bush, swimming at the waterfalls, not to mention the amazing food and above all the fantastic team....
Read More
This week has greatly surpassed all my expectations and I have loved the cool morning rides, meeting zebra and giraffe on the way, the leopard, tracking lion, seeing hippo day and night, the walking, camping in the bush, swimming at the waterfalls, not to mention the amazing food and above all the fantastic team.
Close
| Michael
| Charlotte Opperman
| J & E
Ol Malo Riding Safaris has an amazing lodge in Laikipia looking down onto the Samburo Plains below a very beautiful place. The riding safaris take you through the heart of Samburu land. They also offer mobile camping safaris, etc. which are great fun....
Read More
Ol Malo Riding Safaris has an amazing lodge in Laikipia looking down onto the Samburo Plains below—a very beautiful place. The riding safaris take you through the heart of Samburu land. They also offer mobile camping safaris, etc. which are great fun.
Close
| Alice Gully
Riding through this magnificent landscape was a dream come true. Well schooled horses, fantastic guides and plentiful game made each day a true pleasure. And then, back at the Lodge, the most exquisite meals, impeccable service and rooms that defy the imagination....
Read More
Riding through this magnificent landscape was a dream come true. Well schooled horses, fantastic guides and plentiful game made each day a true pleasure. And then, back at the Lodge, the most exquisite meals, impeccable service and rooms that defy the imagination. If I could, I would return every year to see this magical place in all its glory.
Close
| George
The stables at Ol Donyo Lodge Riding Safaris are immaculate. The horses are varied and suitable for all but the riding really suits competent riders onwards....
Read More
The stables at Ol Donyo Lodge Riding Safaris are immaculate.
The horses are varied and suitable for all but the riding really suits
competent riders onwards. Close
The horses are varied and suitable for all but the riding really suits
competent riders onwards. Close
| Jo Gordon
Magical moments that I will always remember. A tribute to the horses and this wonderful, wonderful country. I’ll be back, so watch out and don’t change a thing....
Read More
Magical moments that I will always remember. A tribute to the horses and this wonderful, wonderful country. I’ll be back, so watch out and don’t change a thing.
Close
| Chrissy
Offbeat Riding Safaris is a mobile riding safari and a serious adventure. Your charismatic guide takes you on energetic and exciting rides that enable you to get up close and personal with lots of wildlife before heading to a new camp site every night or so....
Read More
Offbeat Riding Safaris is a mobile riding safari and a serious adventure. Your charismatic guide takes you on energetic and exciting rides that enable you to get up close and personal with lots of wildlife before heading to a new camp site every night or so. The horses are all very forward going. I think this is a PROPER safari!
Close
| Charlie Swanson
This really was so much more than I expected it to be with incredibly
welcoming and friendly people, amazing wildlife encounters,
extraordinary scenery and views. I learnt so much about the culture of
each country and driving between areas, whilst lon... Read More
welcoming and friendly people, amazing wildlife encounters,
extraordinary scenery and views. I learnt so much about the culture of
each country and driving between areas, whilst lon... Read More
This really was so much more than I expected it to be with incredibly
welcoming and friendly people, amazing wildlife encounters,
extraordinary scenery and views. I learnt so much about the culture of
each country and driving between areas, whilst long journeys in many
cases, was such a great way to travel as you see and learn so much more
and I really felt that I got under the skin of the country. The
diversity of game and activities, especially in Uganda, was also much
greater than I had anticipated and extremely welcome. Close
welcoming and friendly people, amazing wildlife encounters,
extraordinary scenery and views. I learnt so much about the culture of
each country and driving between areas, whilst long journeys in many
cases, was such a great way to travel as you see and learn so much more
and I really felt that I got under the skin of the country. The
diversity of game and activities, especially in Uganda, was also much
greater than I had anticipated and extremely welcome. Close
| Lucinda Rome
Fantastic! Some of the best beaches I’ve ever seen and all off the beaten track. The snorkelling and clarity of the water was out of this world....
Read More
Fantastic! Some of the best beaches I’ve ever seen and all off the
beaten track. The snorkelling and clarity of the water was out of this
world. Close
beaten track. The snorkelling and clarity of the water was out of this
world. Close
| Sarah
A Beach Holiday to Mozambique
Fantastic! Some of the best beaches I’ve ever seen and all off the beaten track. The snorkelling and clarity of the water was out of this world....
Read More
Fantastic! Some of the best beaches I’ve ever seen and all off the beaten track. The snorkelling and clarity of the water was out of this world.
Close
A Beach Holiday to Mozambique | Sarah
If you are looking for an African retreat for a whole week of fun and adventure then Ride and Walk is perfect. We spent a week here and didn’t want to leave. There’s so much to do, it’s so totally peaceful and remote, and the hospitality and guiding were second to none....
Read More
If you are looking for an African retreat for a whole week of fun and adventure then Ride and Walk is perfect. We spent a week here and didn’t want to leave. There’s so much to do, it’s so totally peaceful and remote, and the hospitality and guiding were second to none. We truly did something different every day, whether fishing, riding, walking, reading books, swimming, or game drives. Motswiri Camp is incredibly relaxing and refreshing.
Close
| The Andersons
| Richard Smith
The Pans, none of us had ever heard of them until we were recommended to ride there; oh my goodness, what an amazing, ethereally beautiful place it is, a flat endless expanse of, well nothing really, dotted occasionally with palm islands....
Read More
The Pans, none of us had ever heard of them until we were recommended to ride there; oh my goodness, what an amazing, ethereally beautiful place it is, a flat endless expanse of, well nothing really, dotted occasionally with palm islands. The riding here is incredible, fast, safe, fun, long days, great horses, amazing food. The most completely spectacular holiday ever. Thank you all so much.
Close
| Edward & Felicity
Ride Botswana is based out in the Makgadikgadi Pans, which is great going for horses to ride at a pace. It’s magical. You ride out in the afternoon until it gets dark then just as you start to wonder where you’re going to sleep for the night you see lights flickering in the distance and realise they’ve set up camp ready for you!...
Read More
Ride Botswana is based out in the Makgadikgadi Pans, which is great going for horses to ride at a pace. It’s magical. You ride out in the afternoon until it gets dark then just as you start to wonder where you’re going to sleep for the night you see lights flickering in the distance and realise they’ve set up camp ready for you! I tell you, you feel as small as an ant sleeping out under that great sky. Along the way you’ll see plenty of meerkats, meet Kalahari bushmen and visit Chapman’s Baobab.
Close
| Charlie Swanson
Thank you for an incredible, amazing, once in a lifetime experience. I will carry so many wonderful memories in my heart forever. Your horses are fabulous! Every one of your staff was gracious and made me feel so welcome....
Read More
Thank you for an incredible, amazing, once in a lifetime experience. I will carry so many wonderful memories in my heart forever. Your horses are fabulous! Every one of your staff was gracious and made me feel so welcome.
Close
| Caroline
Everything at Okavango Horse Safaris is of an excellent standard. It’s mobile horse safari takes you to a satellite fly camp in a small group of ten or less and we spent our time splashing through shallow floodplains and getting up close to wildlife on horseback....
Read More
Everything at Okavango Horse Safaris is of an excellent standard. It’s mobile horse safari takes you to a satellite fly camp in a small group of ten or less and we spent our time splashing through shallow floodplains and getting up close to wildlife on horseback. PJ and Barney set OHS up years ago and they’re still running the show today. Love it.
Close
| Charlie Swanson
The Opperman Family Holiday to Zambia and Malawi
A great family holiday and a perfect combination of camps and activities. Keeping four teenagers happy without the internet, clubbing etc. was quite an achievement! Even missing a flight and spending an unscheduled night in Lilongwe didn’t detract from the experience....
Read More
A great family holiday and a perfect combination of camps and activities. Keeping four teenagers happy without the internet, clubbing etc. was quite an achievement! Even missing a flight and spending an unscheduled night in Lilongwe didn’t detract from the experience.
Close
The Opperman Family Holiday to Zambia and Malawi | The Opperman Family
We had a wonderful ten days exploring the highlights of Botswana. Fantastic game viewing and seeing the Victoria Falls was a dream come true....
Read More
We had a wonderful ten days exploring the highlights of Botswana. Fantastic game viewing and seeing the Victoria Falls was a dream come true.
Close
| Ted & Janet
| Charlie Swanson
A Holiday to Uganda and Rwanda
This really was so much more than I expected it to be with incredibly welcoming and friendly people, amazing wildlife encounters, extraordinary scenery and views. I learnt so much about the culture of each country and driving between areas, whilst long journeys in many cases, was such a great way to travel as you see and learn so much more and I really felt that I got under the skin of the country....
Read More
This really was so much more than I expected it to be with incredibly welcoming and friendly people, amazing wildlife encounters, extraordinary scenery and views. I learnt so much about the culture of each country and driving between areas, whilst long journeys in many cases, was such a great way to travel as you see and learn so much more and I really felt that I got under the skin of the country. The diversity of game and activities, especially in Uganda, was also much greater than I had anticipated and extremely welcome.
Close
A Holiday to Uganda and Rwanda | Lucinda Rome
| The Royders
The riding at Kurland is great. Due to a slight muddle I ended up going out with a complete beginner, but in a way this was interesting to see as well. The groom at the end was trying to teach him how to trot and the guests seemed to love this....
Read More
The riding at Kurland is great. Due to a slight muddle I ended up going out with a complete beginner, but in a way this was interesting to see as well. The groom at the end was trying to teach him how to trot and the guests seemed to love this. The horses were polo ponies and very well schooled. The stables are stunning and I loved being able to grab quad bikes and bikes to go around the estate on our first night- such a lovely feeling of freedom. They have a large number of repeat guests who come every year at the same time and I can see why. Shaun Brokenshaw is the professional polo player on site and he’s available for lessons, etc. if guests would like it. Kurland will also start polo clinics as well. The polo fields are immaculate- there are 4 of them plus a stick and ball field as well and the show ground has a stunning clubhouse. The polo can be as large or as small a part in your holiday as you choose it to be. I really liked Kurland and it surprised me how much there was to do here. I can see it working for the R & R section of an itinerary as it is up to you what you do when.
Close
| Charlie Swanson
| Linda & John G.
The Grootbos Riding stables have 17 beautiful horses and they use English saddles. They can take all ages and caterfor all levels. For very experienced riders you can do a beach ride which lasts about 3 hours. There are a range of activities on offer from nature walks, flower safaris, nature drives, riding, to the more usual activities for Hermanus such as cage diving and whale watching....
Read More
The Grootbos Riding stables have 17 beautiful horses and they use English saddles. They can take all ages and cater for all levels. For very experienced riders you can do a beach ride which lasts about 3 hours. There are a range of activities on offer from nature walks, flower safaris, nature drives, riding, to the more usual activities for Hermanus such as cage diving and whale watching. For the in-house activities they all depart at set times. On check-in they go through the schedule and see what you’d like to do and when. The scenic flights take off from the airstrip at Grootbos, in front of the new Owners Villa.
Close
| Charlie Swanson
Silence, pure silence, apart from the soft sound of horses hooves in the sand and the gentle creak of leather as we move quietly through this immense landscape. There’s the occasional rustle as you brush past a bush, and of course the sounds of the numerous desert birds....
Read More
Silence, pure silence, apart from the soft sound of horses hooves in the sand and the gentle creak of leather as we move quietly through this immense landscape. There’s the occasional rustle as you brush past a bush, and of course the sounds of the numerous desert birds. It’s not fast riding, but you see lots, it’s so relaxing and tranquil and you can get really close to wildlife as well.
Close
| Amy
I loved it here. You can ride at all levels. The new stables are impressive, and you have the choice of Western and English saddles. This is a romantic place and one where you feel supremely relaxed, pampered and at home all at the same time with impeccable service and great staff....
Read More
I loved it here. You can ride at all levels. The new stables are impressive, and you have the choice of Western and English saddles. This is a romantic place and one where you feel supremely relaxed, pampered and at home all at the same time with impeccable service and great staff.
Close
| Charlie Swanson
Love this place. Scenery is breathtaking. Horses wonderful and the staff should give other companies lessons on customer service – nothing is too much trouble....
Read More
Love this place. Scenery is breathtaking. Horses wonderful and the staff should give other companies lessons on customer service – nothing is too much trouble.
Close
| Emma & Ike
Laura, Horizon’s co-owner/manager, is very sweet, relaxed and has a natural way with all the guests. The whole feel was that of a relaxed family atmosphere, with guests helping themselves to whatever they liked. It has a beautiful setting overlooking a lake with big expanses of lawn....
Read More
Laura, Horizon’s co-owner/manager, is very sweet, relaxed and has a natural way with all the guests. The whole feel was that of a relaxed family atmosphere, with guests helping themselves to whatever they liked. It has a beautiful setting overlooking a lake with big expanses of lawn. The horses are on site and visible set back behind the main area- I liked this, although it may be too hands on for some! There is a swimming pool on the edge of the lake, which hippos sometimes make their home. The Lake View rooms are large and relatively new. Simply furnished but well done. The Garden View rooms have a shaded sitting room between them. As both are en-suite they can be booked separately or they work well for families. The standard rooms are small but comfortable. Of the 85 horses, 23 are at Dinaka, but the rest are varied and can cater for all abilities, shapes and sizes. They usually use the SA style saddle but also have Western and English saddles available if you prefer. Children love it here! Guests’ children can ride out with the owners’ daughter and other local children on Saturday mornings and Wednesday afternoons. This is a relaxed place which should have great riding as the soil is very sandy.
Close
| Victoria Langmead
What a magnificent place to ride. We had a fantastic time here and everyone in our family, novices and experienced alike, loved being able to get close to the wildlife on horseback. Add to that our lovely guides, spectacular rooms and the scrumptious food and we couldn’t have been happier....
Read More
What a magnificent place to ride. We had a fantastic time here and everyone in our family- novices and experienced alike- loved being able to get close to the wildlife on horseback. Add to that our lovely guides, spectacular rooms and the scrumptious food and we couldn’t have been happier.
Close
| The Storm Family
Thanks again to the whole team for a wonderful stay. We hope to be back to Botswana sooner or later and when we are we will definitely come back to visit. Riding with you was definitely the best part of our one month vacation and gave us a true African experience....
Read More
Thanks again to the whole team for a wonderful stay. We hope to be back to Botswana sooner or later and when we are we will definitely come back to visit. Riding with you was definitely the best part of our one month vacation and gave us a true African experience. We just can’t wait to be back to see more of the region.
Close
| Kasia & Maciek
The most incredible experience imaginable, it still brings tears to my eyes to think of my holiday at Macatoo. For those who are reading this and wondering whether to try this holiday…do it! It’s worth every penny and then some. Wish I were there....
Read More
The most incredible experience imaginable, it still brings tears to my eyes to think of my holiday at Macatoo. For those who are reading this and wondering whether to try this holiday…do it! It’s worth every penny and then some. Wish I were there.
Close
| Rachel
| Beefy & Tish M.
Rides at Desert Homestead Riding are slow or fast depending on the guests and are entirely flexible. Desert Homestead can ride on the adjoining Kulala Reserve. The horses are a mixed bag and I would say there is something for everyone....
Read More
Rides at Desert Homestead Riding are slow or fast depending on the guests and are entirely flexible. Desert Homestead can ride on the adjoining Kulala Reserve. The horses are a mixed bag and I would say there is something for everyone. The riding safari rig is dome tents, stretcher beds, bush dinner and breakfast, etc. is excellent fun! Incidentally, the Namibia Horse Safari Company are going to stable their horses at Desert Homestead and the guide there helps out on many of their mobile safaris.
Close
| Francis Naumann
We loved every second of our trip. It was the perfect way to get back to the origins of safari and truly enjoy the beautiful surroundings and wildlife. Thanks so much to the Drumbeat Safaris team who looked after us so well....
Read More
We loved every second of our trip. It was the perfect way to get back to the origins of safari and truly enjoy the beautiful surroundings and wildlife. Thanks so much to the Drumbeat Safaris team who looked after us so well.
Close
| Will & Amy
The horses, about 30 of them, were fantastic. There is also a bunch of ponies which suit kids and beginners. This place is great for riders with non-riding spouses as there’s so much to do from walking, game drives in Lewa and helicopter fishing on Mount Kenya....
Read More
The horses—about 30 of them—were fantastic. There is also a bunch of ponies which suit kids and beginners. This place is great for riders with non-riding spouses as there’s so much to do from walking, game drives in Lewa and helicopter fishing on Mount Kenya.
Close
| Alice Gully
The horses here really are a joy to ride. They don’t pull, they’re very responsive and they stop with the lightest of touches. They’re even trained to stop when the guide whistles, which is a pretty good trick. My horse was a 17.0h thoroughbred boerperd cross and what a horse!...
Read More
The horses here really are a joy to ride. They don’t pull, they’re very responsive and they stop with the lightest of touches. They’re even trained to stop when the guide whistles, which is a pretty good trick. My horse was a 17.0h thoroughbred boerperd cross—and what a horse! He looked like a prize steeplechaser, and jumped like one, but was the easiest horse to ride.
We saw some fantastic game, too. The first animal we saw on the very first morning was a leopard, which sort of set the tone for the week. On the Mashatu game drive afternoon we saw lion, cheetah, leopard and hyena in the space of a few hours! And on the last night we were surrounded by a breeding herd of some 50 elephants and their calves, which was an amazing sight.
Close
| Charlie Swanson
I honestly think I’ve just been on one of the best holidays of my life. It was such a laugh! Six mates with a guide, no unknown tourists, in jokes and all with the same interests. I don’t think there’s a better way to go on safari....
Read More
I honestly think I’ve just been on one of the best holidays of my life. It was such a laugh! Six mates with a guide, no unknown tourists, in jokes and all with the same interests. I don’t think there’s a better way to go on safari. I can highly recommend Drumbeat; they’re slick, kind and good hosts. We spent our first night at Baines Baobabs in a stunning private spot. Annelies really cares about every aspect and the attention to detail is fantastic. Our guide, Johno, was good fun and an excellent guide—told us just enough and fitted in perfectly. I would certainly request him in the future. The second night we went to Planet Baobab in the afternoon to collect the quad bikes for our night on the Pans which was A LOT of fun! The pans are strange and camping in the middle of nowhere was very odd with no tent, but I would highly recommend it. The dinner here was one of the best!
We drove to Moremi the next day where we stayed for 3 nights in a stunning shady spot overlooking an open area which would be wet with the rains. We had a mixture of game drives and boat trips. A full day on the boats was brilliant! We saw lots of crocs and birds (I think we saw 105 species!), swam in the delta and had an excellent picnic. The highlight was the leopard hanging around the camp. We could see her from the toilet, and on several occasions she walked around us very casually! I’d have like to have done it for longer! Johno and Annelies made it such a laugh—they were very good at humoring everyone and keeping the banter going.
Close
| Alice Gully
The flight to the camp is a special part of the adventure. We flew over the delta at low altitude, spotting game as we went then landed on a dirt strip in the jungle. We were met by one of the guides who transported us to camp by game vehicle and a short boat trip....
Read More
The flight to the camp is a special part of the adventure. We flew over the delta at low altitude, spotting game as we went then landed on a dirt strip in the jungle. We were met by one of the guides who transported us to camp by game vehicle and a short boat trip. It all gave us a real sense of the wilderness and space. Communal eating, drinking and socializing are a fabulous part of the experience. We breakfasted around the campfire, lunched in the shade by the mess tent and ate supper around one big table. John and Kim are seriously good fun! Also, local guys Bongwe, Mod, Sekongo and Motsugi are the heart and soul of the place. They really gave us a true insight into real African life.
Close
| Charlie Swanson