Africa Safari Classics
Africa Safari Classics
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Nairobi, Kenya
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2024
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Linda B
1 bidrag
jul. 2024 • Familie
Several members of my family and I visited Kenya and Tanzania with Africa Safari Classics. We saw so many different kinds of animals, many up close from the safety of our Landcruiser. Our driver/guides were knowledgeable and professional, offering great information about the people, places, and wildlife we encountered. Our lodgings were a mix of refined comfort and off-the-grid adventure. Many thanks to Maurice for the unforgettable experience!
Skrevet 9. august 2024
Denne anmeldelsen er den subjektive meningen til et Tripadvisor-medlem og kommer ikke fra Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor sjekker anmeldelser.
Qba
5 bidrag
jul. 2024 • Alene
I had the great pleasure of taking a private, two and a half week trip to Tanzania, safari and stay in Zanzibar, organized by Africa Safari Classics. The safari included the National Parks: Arusha, Tarangire, Lake Manyara, Serengeti, Ngorongoro Conservation Area and additionally Olduvai Gorge. Accommodation at Venus Premier Hotel, Tarangire Osupuko Lodges, Migunga Tented Camp, Robin Safari Camp Serengeti was very good, close to the entrances or in the parks itself with delicious food and excellent, very friendly service. In particular, Migunga Tented Camp very close to Lake Manyara and Ngorongoro Kuhama Camp – both tents very clean, without any insects. What's more, from the lodge in Osupuko Camp at Tarangire National Park, I had the pleasure of observing a herd of waterbucks in the morning and at evening, and in the Migunga Tented Camp - Marabou storks. The internal As Salaam Air flight from Arusha Airport to Zanzibar and the transfer to the Nur Beach Resort Hotel went very smoothly.
Staying at the Nur Beach Resort right on Jambiani Beach on the east coast of Zanzibar was also a perfect choice. I had my own hut, the food and service were excellent, and thanks to the complete silence around the clock, I could relax. It was also difficult to find a better location on the whole island (during my stay in Zanzibar I was also on the beaches of Nungwi and Kendwa – very nice but relatively small and very crowded with tourists) – from the hotel I could go for many hours long walks along the beach, because in this part of the island individual beaches form a several-kilometer-long series of beaches – the longest in the whole of Zanzibar. I also had the opportunity to take tours of the island, which allowed me to explore Stone Town, Prison Island, Jozani Forest, spice farm, and Mangapwani Cave.
Maurice, Sales Director deserves special recognition for the excellent organization of the entire trip, including the choice of accommodation, professionalism, excellent contact, daily support and commitment to ensure that the program is done in the smallest detail and with safety. I am no less grateful to the guide and driver Ally, who constantly provided me with a great deal of knowledge about the country, the characteristics and customs of the wild animals observed. Thanks to his excellent commitment and perfect daily cooperation in spotting animals, I had the opportunity to see many animals, not only: elephants, lions, buffaloes, zebras, giraffes, wildebeest, Grant and Thomson's gazelles, hippos, ... but also many for the first time in nature – with the leopard at the forefront in the Serengeti Park.
All this makes the trip to Tanzania and Zanzibar organized by Africa Safari Classics an unforgettable experience for me and without a doubt the best trip I have made so far in my life. I highly recommend Africa Safari Classics!
Staying at the Nur Beach Resort right on Jambiani Beach on the east coast of Zanzibar was also a perfect choice. I had my own hut, the food and service were excellent, and thanks to the complete silence around the clock, I could relax. It was also difficult to find a better location on the whole island (during my stay in Zanzibar I was also on the beaches of Nungwi and Kendwa – very nice but relatively small and very crowded with tourists) – from the hotel I could go for many hours long walks along the beach, because in this part of the island individual beaches form a several-kilometer-long series of beaches – the longest in the whole of Zanzibar. I also had the opportunity to take tours of the island, which allowed me to explore Stone Town, Prison Island, Jozani Forest, spice farm, and Mangapwani Cave.
Maurice, Sales Director deserves special recognition for the excellent organization of the entire trip, including the choice of accommodation, professionalism, excellent contact, daily support and commitment to ensure that the program is done in the smallest detail and with safety. I am no less grateful to the guide and driver Ally, who constantly provided me with a great deal of knowledge about the country, the characteristics and customs of the wild animals observed. Thanks to his excellent commitment and perfect daily cooperation in spotting animals, I had the opportunity to see many animals, not only: elephants, lions, buffaloes, zebras, giraffes, wildebeest, Grant and Thomson's gazelles, hippos, ... but also many for the first time in nature – with the leopard at the forefront in the Serengeti Park.
All this makes the trip to Tanzania and Zanzibar organized by Africa Safari Classics an unforgettable experience for me and without a doubt the best trip I have made so far in my life. I highly recommend Africa Safari Classics!
Skrevet 7. august 2024
Denne anmeldelsen er den subjektive meningen til et Tripadvisor-medlem og kommer ikke fra Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor sjekker anmeldelser.
Laura S
5 bidrag
jul. 2024 • Par
We really had the experience of a lifetime with Africa Safari Classics. Maurice created an itinerary for us that included all our priorities, and we were well cared for from the moment we stepped out of the airport to the moment we stepped back into an airport at the end of our trip. Maurice checked in frequently during the trip, and when our flight getting into Kenya from Paris was delayed, Maurice acted quickly and rebooked the balloon flight we were missing. Our driver then put in a lot extra time after we got there to help make sure we could see everything we wanted despite arriving a day late. We visited both Kenya and Tanzania, and our guides/drivers (Tony and Pascal) were both extremely knowledgeable and skilled at navigating, driving in rough terrain, and finding the animals we were most excited about.
Skrevet 27. juli 2024
Denne anmeldelsen er den subjektive meningen til et Tripadvisor-medlem og kommer ikke fra Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor sjekker anmeldelser.
Ruth B
4 bidrag
jul. 2024 • Venner
Every aspect of the service provided by Africa Safari Classics was outstanding. Starting from our initial contact with Maurice right through to the very last day of the trip when he took the time to meet up with us in Nairobi to hear about our trip. He was always courteous, very responsive and genuinely invested in ensuring we had the best experience we could.
We had a wonderful safari taking in Lake Naivasha, Lake Nakuru and the Masai Mara. Our driver and guide Tony was great, very knowledgeable and fun to be with! We were incredibly lucky and saw all the "Big Five" thanks to Tony!
All the camps chosen for us by Maurice were above and beyond what we had expected on a safari. They were incredible in terms of quality, location, facilities and such fabulous staff!
Huge thanks to Africa Safari Classics for making our trip all that we had hoped for. Xxx
We had a wonderful safari taking in Lake Naivasha, Lake Nakuru and the Masai Mara. Our driver and guide Tony was great, very knowledgeable and fun to be with! We were incredibly lucky and saw all the "Big Five" thanks to Tony!
All the camps chosen for us by Maurice were above and beyond what we had expected on a safari. They were incredible in terms of quality, location, facilities and such fabulous staff!
Huge thanks to Africa Safari Classics for making our trip all that we had hoped for. Xxx
Skrevet 20. juli 2024
Denne anmeldelsen er den subjektive meningen til et Tripadvisor-medlem og kommer ikke fra Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor sjekker anmeldelser.
Peter David H
1 bidrag
apr. 2024 • Alene
First time in Kenya, first time in Africa and first safari....absolutely the experience of a life time! Africa safari Classics were great , Maurice organised every detail, the itinerary, game parks, tented camps ( luxurious and more than I expected), restaurants and meals, a safari guide, the lot!
I saw so much wildlife, lions, elephants, buffalo, giraffe, gazelle, antelope, warthogs, cheetas, rhino, pink flamingos and lots of different birds. felt very well taken care. I was glad of the six days, as there is so much to take in beyond the animals- the landscapes, rivers wonderful people and culture. All of the restaurants at the camps provided first class meals and service.
My guide Tony was brilliant, gee he was so knowledgeable about Kenya, the wildlife and where to find it. Thanks to Tony's customer care, I felt safe and well informed. He was a good and experienced driver, friendly and nothing was a bother to him. One interesting thing Ialso noticed was that he was very respectful of the 4WD , in the way he took care of it.
I would love to be able to go again. I would happily recommend Africa Safari Classics.
Thank-you.
I saw so much wildlife, lions, elephants, buffalo, giraffe, gazelle, antelope, warthogs, cheetas, rhino, pink flamingos and lots of different birds. felt very well taken care. I was glad of the six days, as there is so much to take in beyond the animals- the landscapes, rivers wonderful people and culture. All of the restaurants at the camps provided first class meals and service.
My guide Tony was brilliant, gee he was so knowledgeable about Kenya, the wildlife and where to find it. Thanks to Tony's customer care, I felt safe and well informed. He was a good and experienced driver, friendly and nothing was a bother to him. One interesting thing Ialso noticed was that he was very respectful of the 4WD , in the way he took care of it.
I would love to be able to go again. I would happily recommend Africa Safari Classics.
Thank-you.
Skrevet 18. juli 2024
Denne anmeldelsen er den subjektive meningen til et Tripadvisor-medlem og kommer ikke fra Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor sjekker anmeldelser.
David O
Green Valley, AZ13 bidrag
feb. 2024 • Par
This review may be a little long but I wanted to include all aspects of our trip with Africa Safari Classics including cost, transportation, drivers/guides, lodging, food, game drives, et. al.
Let’s start with the basics. I booked this trip several months in advance after going on their website and seeing there “stock” options. There were a couple things I wanted, primarily the Wildebeest migration, so I contacted Maurice about a customized trip. He asked how long I wanted to stay, what things I wanted to see/do and how much I wanted to spend. When the details were worked out he sent me a proposed itinerary, we agreed on a price and we were set to go. Over the next couple of weeks of researching, I wanted to change a couple things and add a post-safari trip to Zanzibar. These changes/additions were incorporated with no problems.
Now it was time to make a deposit. Here’s where I had some trepidation because they don’t take credit cards. You have to make an international wire transfer. After hearing the stories of the Nigerian prince, etc. it was concerning to transfer money to an African entity when the bank tells you once it’s transferred, it’s gone forever. So I read reviews of African Safari Classics (ASC) on several different websites – they were all good - and decided to take a chance. It worked out perfectly – so we’re now ready to go!
Day 1 we left Tucson, Arizona on 5 February and arrived in Nairobi late on Day 2 (6 February). We were met at the airport by our driver, Muli, and transferred to our hotel (Tamarind Tree). The hotel was very nice, check-in was easy and the next day’s included breakfast was great.
Day 3 included visiting the Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage and the Giraffe Manor and a drive thru Nairobi Nation Park. The orphanage was nice but watching rescued elephants walk around with their handlers and listening to each of their histories was a little boring. Spending 15 minutes hand-feeding giraffes was also OK but nothing to do again. The National Park, inside the Nairobi city limits, was our first encounter with African wildlife – baboons, gazelles, monkeys, giraffe, etc. was exciting. All in all it was nice but something I wouldn’t do again.
Day 4 we were driven to near-by Wilson Airport for a short flight to Amboseli Game Reserve and our two-night stay at the Amboseli Serena Lodge. We were met at the airstrip by Benson, our driver/guide for the next two days. On the drive to the lodge, we passed thousands of flamingos and a few elephants. Benson had the eyes of a hawk and spotted animals we would have never seen. We checked-in at the lodge, had lunch and soon departed for our first game drive. The lodge is beautiful. It had regular motel-type rooms, around 90 I think, with all the amenities including a pool, fire-pits, buffet restaurant and bar/lounge. It also had LOTS of local monkeys that you often stepped over getting from you room to the bar! They were cute and posed no hazard. The buffet was international in flavor and had something for everyone – including an evening stir-fry station. As we found to be common in Kenya and Tanzania, when you order a gin & tonic, you pay for the gin and a separate bottle of tonic water. The prices were very reasonable and you got the extra tonic to boot. The staff was always smiling and anxious to fill requests and answer questions. Out two game-drives were so exciting as we saw many elephants & gazelle, up close and personal, as well as at least 11 other types of animal. This was our first encounter with the “African massage” – getting shaken and stirred in a Land Cruiser on the pitted dirt roads. (During all our drives we pulled two vehicles out of mud bogs and had one flat tire). Believe me, at the end of a game-drive you wanted a cocktail (or three) and a shower! We were only about 30-35 miles from snow-capped Mt. Kilimanjaro in Tanzania and got some great photos of it in the background with elephants in the foreground.
Day 6 we flew back to Nairobi, were met by Muli again and driven, in a Toyota Land Cruiser, to Lake Nakuru National Park. This was one of the things I would never do again. The drive was 6 hours to The Cliff (our lodge) over roads that were packed with CRAZY/dangerous drivers and large, over-loaded trucks. The Cliff, tent-camp was very nice, with good food and a nice view of the lake. I need to mention that the tents at all of the camps we stayed at included a fully functioning toilet, shower, with hot water, sitting area, mosquito netting around the bed, bathroom amenities, bottled water and in some cases, hot water bottles in your where it got cold at night. Breakfast included buffet-style fruit and pastries with made-to-order eggs. The dinner included three choices of entrée so there was always something for everyone. The issue was that after the long drive, all we wanted to do was relax but since this was only a one night stay, we immediately headed out on an “African massage” game drive. After the game viewing where we saw Black and White Rhino, Water Buck and Giraffe all we wanted was a drink, some dinner and a good night’s sleep – so we really didn’t get to enjoy the camp very much. For us, the road to get here wasn’t worth the trip and the animals we saw were seen later at other camps. Not only that, but getting to our next stop was another long, harrowing, drive that we would not repeat.
Day 7 we drive to the Maasai Mara Game Reserve. Maasai Mara is definitely worth visiting but try to get there either by a shorter drive directly from Nairobi or a flight. We had two nights at the Entim Camp just above the Mara River. The camp is beautiful with individual tents, a beautiful restaurant and bar and a really friendly staff. The choices of entrees at dinner were very good. The view of the river is great and we were told that during migration season (June-Sept) here, watching the wildebeests cross the river would be spectacular. (The migration in February was in the Serengeti and we’ll get to that later.) Our game drives here were great and we saw several lions and one leopard among many other different animals.
Day 9 we drove to a dirt airstrip for a short flight to Migori. We were bused to Isebania where we cleared customs and Immigration before entering Tanzania. After another short bus ride to another dirt airstrip and a short flight to Ndutu, we were met by our driver/guide, Harnisi, for our stay in Serengeti National Park. (Harnisi works for Sunny Safaris who were a subcontractor to ASC for this portion of our tour). We were driver to the Nyumbu Luxury Migration Camp, for lunch and then an afternoon game drive. Once again, this camp is fantastic with spacious tents, a beautiful bar/restaurant and great staff. Dinners offered a choice of entrée and were especially good.
Day 10 was a full day game drive with a picnic lunch in the wild. The camp gave us a menu the previous evening to choose what we wanted to eat and even included a Serengeti beer in addition to juice and bottled water. The famous migration was well underway in the Serengeti. We drove through latterly hundreds of thousands of Wildebeests and Zebras. Our guide estimated we could see over 1.5 million animals at the same time. We even saw the birth of one Wildeest. It’s a hit or miss gamble. Yesterday we drove the same route and only saw a handful of migration animals – today they were everywhere. We also saw several lions, including three in trees, a rare caracal, cheetah, ostrich and elephants
Day 12 was another drive. We passed the OL Dupai Gorge which is believed to be the cradle of Mankind. We made a brief stop to read its history. We continued past the entrance to Ngorongoro Conservation Area to our Ngorongoro Tortilis Tent Camp. This was by far the worst of our camps. It was located 30-40 minutes from the Crater entrance in an isolated wooded area with nothing to see. The tent was similar to all the others but the dinner was only one option, fish. We passed several other tent camps, including a Serena lodge, closer to the crater entrance that would have no doubt been more enjoyable. This is the only camp I would not recommend.
Day 13 was an early morning departure for the floor of the Ngorongoro Crater. We saw several lions, hippos, buffalo, flamingos and many others. It is a “must-see” if you’re anywhere near this area. Later in the day we departed the crater for Lake Manyara and the Escarpment Lodge. This beautiful tent camp was much like the others with a great tent, which included a bathtub and air-conditioning, a beautiful patio dining area and a great bar. Dinner here offered three choices, one of which, chateaubriand, was the best meal we had on our entire trip.
Day 14 was a morning game drive with the usual assortment of animals and then it was off to Arusha for our flight to Zanzabar. Finally a good road!
We arrived in Zanzabar and were met by our driver from Hibiscus Tours & Safaris. Our Maru Maru Zanzibar Hotel is a short drive from the airport. The hotel seems to be in a less than desirable area but that proved to be the norm in Stone Town. Stone Town has many very narrow, twisty alleys where you will become lost without a guide. The hotel was very clean, comfortable and close to a Garden area and over-water restaurant where at night, hundreds of people congregate for street food and music. It has a rooftop bar and restaurant combo with horrible service. There were several servers but none were assigned specific areas and it seemed none of them knew if you were already served or not. The first night we opted to eat early and as a result were the first two people in the restaurant. We ordered two entrees, grilled prawns and pepper shrimp, and I ordered a side salad. It took 30 minutes to get the salad. After ordering, two other couples came in and ordered. One of them got their food before we did. It took 60 minutes for our entrees and remember – we were there first! The room was the only air-conditioned part of the hotel. This proved a negative when we had to vacate the room at 1100 on the day of departure and had to wait in the roof-top bar until departing for our flight at 1630. It was 93 that day with at least 90% humidity.
Day 15 we had a morning walking tour of Stone Town and then it was off the Cheetah Rock animal preserve. Our driver appeared to not know how to get there but after asking confirming directions, several times, we made it. We were about to pet a Zebra and a Cheetah and interact with Bush Babys and Lemurs. It was quite an experience that you shouldn’t miss.
Day 16 we visited a Spice Farm and had an included Swahili Lunch. We were given a short walking tour thru the woodlands and provided crumbled leaves from different spice trees to try and identify the spice. At the end we were offered and felt obligated to purchase products made from the different spices. The lunch was really good. The tour was OK but I wouldn’t do it again. We were supposed to visit Prison Island but it didn’t happen. When Maurice texted to ask how things were going I told him the Prison Island trip hadn’t happened.
Day 17 we were offered the Prison Island tour but because this was our last day and we had to depart our hotel room at 1100, the timing just wasn’t right so we declined. We departed the hotel at 1630 and driven to the airport thus ending our African Safari Classics tour.
General Impressions/Comments
• I recommend going to less camps and staying longer in each. We spent a lot of time driving between camps and only getting to spend 1 or 2 nights in each. After driving a long time each day to get there and then doing a game drive, you only want a drink, a meal and a sleep. You don’t have time to enjoy the camp. You will probably see the same animals in multiple camps so why not drive less and relax more.
• I highly recommend Amboseli Serena Lodge, Entim Camp and Escarpment Lodge. These three should allow you to see the Big 5 plus many others. In all, we saw at least 39 different animals.
.
• If you want to see the famous migration be sure to book the correct location for the time of year – generally Serengeti in Feb-Mar and Massai Mara in Jun-Aug
• Most days we work shorts, sneakers and tee shirts. We did have need a jacket and long pants twice because of the elevation. You cloths will get dusty. A couple of the camps provided complimentary laundry and we took advantage.
• Unless you are really into diving and sunbathing, I wouldn’t recommend Zanzibar. It’s hot, humid and crowded. Traffic is ridiculous
• We spent a little of $8,400 each. This included everything except airfare to/from Nairobi. I’m sure there are higher and lesser quality tent camps but with one exception, ours were great.
• Maurice at Africa Safari Classics arranged EVERYTHING including entry fees at National Parks, flights, hotels/tent camps, drivers/guides and sub-contractors. He texted me often, using WhatsApp, to ensure things were progressing. Be sure you download WhatsApp and know how to use it – it’s the fastest form of communication with him.
• Overall this was one of our top three vacations ever. I don’t think we’ll ever go back to Kenya and Tanzania but I’m really glad we did this one time.
Let’s start with the basics. I booked this trip several months in advance after going on their website and seeing there “stock” options. There were a couple things I wanted, primarily the Wildebeest migration, so I contacted Maurice about a customized trip. He asked how long I wanted to stay, what things I wanted to see/do and how much I wanted to spend. When the details were worked out he sent me a proposed itinerary, we agreed on a price and we were set to go. Over the next couple of weeks of researching, I wanted to change a couple things and add a post-safari trip to Zanzibar. These changes/additions were incorporated with no problems.
Now it was time to make a deposit. Here’s where I had some trepidation because they don’t take credit cards. You have to make an international wire transfer. After hearing the stories of the Nigerian prince, etc. it was concerning to transfer money to an African entity when the bank tells you once it’s transferred, it’s gone forever. So I read reviews of African Safari Classics (ASC) on several different websites – they were all good - and decided to take a chance. It worked out perfectly – so we’re now ready to go!
Day 1 we left Tucson, Arizona on 5 February and arrived in Nairobi late on Day 2 (6 February). We were met at the airport by our driver, Muli, and transferred to our hotel (Tamarind Tree). The hotel was very nice, check-in was easy and the next day’s included breakfast was great.
Day 3 included visiting the Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage and the Giraffe Manor and a drive thru Nairobi Nation Park. The orphanage was nice but watching rescued elephants walk around with their handlers and listening to each of their histories was a little boring. Spending 15 minutes hand-feeding giraffes was also OK but nothing to do again. The National Park, inside the Nairobi city limits, was our first encounter with African wildlife – baboons, gazelles, monkeys, giraffe, etc. was exciting. All in all it was nice but something I wouldn’t do again.
Day 4 we were driven to near-by Wilson Airport for a short flight to Amboseli Game Reserve and our two-night stay at the Amboseli Serena Lodge. We were met at the airstrip by Benson, our driver/guide for the next two days. On the drive to the lodge, we passed thousands of flamingos and a few elephants. Benson had the eyes of a hawk and spotted animals we would have never seen. We checked-in at the lodge, had lunch and soon departed for our first game drive. The lodge is beautiful. It had regular motel-type rooms, around 90 I think, with all the amenities including a pool, fire-pits, buffet restaurant and bar/lounge. It also had LOTS of local monkeys that you often stepped over getting from you room to the bar! They were cute and posed no hazard. The buffet was international in flavor and had something for everyone – including an evening stir-fry station. As we found to be common in Kenya and Tanzania, when you order a gin & tonic, you pay for the gin and a separate bottle of tonic water. The prices were very reasonable and you got the extra tonic to boot. The staff was always smiling and anxious to fill requests and answer questions. Out two game-drives were so exciting as we saw many elephants & gazelle, up close and personal, as well as at least 11 other types of animal. This was our first encounter with the “African massage” – getting shaken and stirred in a Land Cruiser on the pitted dirt roads. (During all our drives we pulled two vehicles out of mud bogs and had one flat tire). Believe me, at the end of a game-drive you wanted a cocktail (or three) and a shower! We were only about 30-35 miles from snow-capped Mt. Kilimanjaro in Tanzania and got some great photos of it in the background with elephants in the foreground.
Day 6 we flew back to Nairobi, were met by Muli again and driven, in a Toyota Land Cruiser, to Lake Nakuru National Park. This was one of the things I would never do again. The drive was 6 hours to The Cliff (our lodge) over roads that were packed with CRAZY/dangerous drivers and large, over-loaded trucks. The Cliff, tent-camp was very nice, with good food and a nice view of the lake. I need to mention that the tents at all of the camps we stayed at included a fully functioning toilet, shower, with hot water, sitting area, mosquito netting around the bed, bathroom amenities, bottled water and in some cases, hot water bottles in your where it got cold at night. Breakfast included buffet-style fruit and pastries with made-to-order eggs. The dinner included three choices of entrée so there was always something for everyone. The issue was that after the long drive, all we wanted to do was relax but since this was only a one night stay, we immediately headed out on an “African massage” game drive. After the game viewing where we saw Black and White Rhino, Water Buck and Giraffe all we wanted was a drink, some dinner and a good night’s sleep – so we really didn’t get to enjoy the camp very much. For us, the road to get here wasn’t worth the trip and the animals we saw were seen later at other camps. Not only that, but getting to our next stop was another long, harrowing, drive that we would not repeat.
Day 7 we drive to the Maasai Mara Game Reserve. Maasai Mara is definitely worth visiting but try to get there either by a shorter drive directly from Nairobi or a flight. We had two nights at the Entim Camp just above the Mara River. The camp is beautiful with individual tents, a beautiful restaurant and bar and a really friendly staff. The choices of entrees at dinner were very good. The view of the river is great and we were told that during migration season (June-Sept) here, watching the wildebeests cross the river would be spectacular. (The migration in February was in the Serengeti and we’ll get to that later.) Our game drives here were great and we saw several lions and one leopard among many other different animals.
Day 9 we drove to a dirt airstrip for a short flight to Migori. We were bused to Isebania where we cleared customs and Immigration before entering Tanzania. After another short bus ride to another dirt airstrip and a short flight to Ndutu, we were met by our driver/guide, Harnisi, for our stay in Serengeti National Park. (Harnisi works for Sunny Safaris who were a subcontractor to ASC for this portion of our tour). We were driver to the Nyumbu Luxury Migration Camp, for lunch and then an afternoon game drive. Once again, this camp is fantastic with spacious tents, a beautiful bar/restaurant and great staff. Dinners offered a choice of entrée and were especially good.
Day 10 was a full day game drive with a picnic lunch in the wild. The camp gave us a menu the previous evening to choose what we wanted to eat and even included a Serengeti beer in addition to juice and bottled water. The famous migration was well underway in the Serengeti. We drove through latterly hundreds of thousands of Wildebeests and Zebras. Our guide estimated we could see over 1.5 million animals at the same time. We even saw the birth of one Wildeest. It’s a hit or miss gamble. Yesterday we drove the same route and only saw a handful of migration animals – today they were everywhere. We also saw several lions, including three in trees, a rare caracal, cheetah, ostrich and elephants
Day 12 was another drive. We passed the OL Dupai Gorge which is believed to be the cradle of Mankind. We made a brief stop to read its history. We continued past the entrance to Ngorongoro Conservation Area to our Ngorongoro Tortilis Tent Camp. This was by far the worst of our camps. It was located 30-40 minutes from the Crater entrance in an isolated wooded area with nothing to see. The tent was similar to all the others but the dinner was only one option, fish. We passed several other tent camps, including a Serena lodge, closer to the crater entrance that would have no doubt been more enjoyable. This is the only camp I would not recommend.
Day 13 was an early morning departure for the floor of the Ngorongoro Crater. We saw several lions, hippos, buffalo, flamingos and many others. It is a “must-see” if you’re anywhere near this area. Later in the day we departed the crater for Lake Manyara and the Escarpment Lodge. This beautiful tent camp was much like the others with a great tent, which included a bathtub and air-conditioning, a beautiful patio dining area and a great bar. Dinner here offered three choices, one of which, chateaubriand, was the best meal we had on our entire trip.
Day 14 was a morning game drive with the usual assortment of animals and then it was off to Arusha for our flight to Zanzabar. Finally a good road!
We arrived in Zanzabar and were met by our driver from Hibiscus Tours & Safaris. Our Maru Maru Zanzibar Hotel is a short drive from the airport. The hotel seems to be in a less than desirable area but that proved to be the norm in Stone Town. Stone Town has many very narrow, twisty alleys where you will become lost without a guide. The hotel was very clean, comfortable and close to a Garden area and over-water restaurant where at night, hundreds of people congregate for street food and music. It has a rooftop bar and restaurant combo with horrible service. There were several servers but none were assigned specific areas and it seemed none of them knew if you were already served or not. The first night we opted to eat early and as a result were the first two people in the restaurant. We ordered two entrees, grilled prawns and pepper shrimp, and I ordered a side salad. It took 30 minutes to get the salad. After ordering, two other couples came in and ordered. One of them got their food before we did. It took 60 minutes for our entrees and remember – we were there first! The room was the only air-conditioned part of the hotel. This proved a negative when we had to vacate the room at 1100 on the day of departure and had to wait in the roof-top bar until departing for our flight at 1630. It was 93 that day with at least 90% humidity.
Day 15 we had a morning walking tour of Stone Town and then it was off the Cheetah Rock animal preserve. Our driver appeared to not know how to get there but after asking confirming directions, several times, we made it. We were about to pet a Zebra and a Cheetah and interact with Bush Babys and Lemurs. It was quite an experience that you shouldn’t miss.
Day 16 we visited a Spice Farm and had an included Swahili Lunch. We were given a short walking tour thru the woodlands and provided crumbled leaves from different spice trees to try and identify the spice. At the end we were offered and felt obligated to purchase products made from the different spices. The lunch was really good. The tour was OK but I wouldn’t do it again. We were supposed to visit Prison Island but it didn’t happen. When Maurice texted to ask how things were going I told him the Prison Island trip hadn’t happened.
Day 17 we were offered the Prison Island tour but because this was our last day and we had to depart our hotel room at 1100, the timing just wasn’t right so we declined. We departed the hotel at 1630 and driven to the airport thus ending our African Safari Classics tour.
General Impressions/Comments
• I recommend going to less camps and staying longer in each. We spent a lot of time driving between camps and only getting to spend 1 or 2 nights in each. After driving a long time each day to get there and then doing a game drive, you only want a drink, a meal and a sleep. You don’t have time to enjoy the camp. You will probably see the same animals in multiple camps so why not drive less and relax more.
• I highly recommend Amboseli Serena Lodge, Entim Camp and Escarpment Lodge. These three should allow you to see the Big 5 plus many others. In all, we saw at least 39 different animals.
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• If you want to see the famous migration be sure to book the correct location for the time of year – generally Serengeti in Feb-Mar and Massai Mara in Jun-Aug
• Most days we work shorts, sneakers and tee shirts. We did have need a jacket and long pants twice because of the elevation. You cloths will get dusty. A couple of the camps provided complimentary laundry and we took advantage.
• Unless you are really into diving and sunbathing, I wouldn’t recommend Zanzibar. It’s hot, humid and crowded. Traffic is ridiculous
• We spent a little of $8,400 each. This included everything except airfare to/from Nairobi. I’m sure there are higher and lesser quality tent camps but with one exception, ours were great.
• Maurice at Africa Safari Classics arranged EVERYTHING including entry fees at National Parks, flights, hotels/tent camps, drivers/guides and sub-contractors. He texted me often, using WhatsApp, to ensure things were progressing. Be sure you download WhatsApp and know how to use it – it’s the fastest form of communication with him.
• Overall this was one of our top three vacations ever. I don’t think we’ll ever go back to Kenya and Tanzania but I’m really glad we did this one time.
Skrevet 27. februar 2024
Denne anmeldelsen er den subjektive meningen til et Tripadvisor-medlem og kommer ikke fra Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor sjekker anmeldelser.
inesserrao90
33 bidrag
des. 2023 • Familie
My experience with Africa Safari Classics was fantastic, with an excellent quality/price ratio.
Very friendly staff, from the moment of booking until the end of the trip.
We went on a Safari through Northern Kenya, always in very well selected accommodation and with great proximity to wild animals.
We started in Aberdares Mountains where we stayed in a high quality lodge surrounded by animals. We then continued on to Samburu Reserve, Meru National Park and, at the end, Ol Pejeta Conservancy. In all the accommodations, the staff was impeccable, and the proximity to the animals was incredible. Our guide Tony was very friendly, well prepared, attentive and concerned about our well-being and ensuring that we saw as many animals as we could. All lunches and dinners were included in the program and were very well chosen.
It was an excellent trip and, you know, one to repeat.
Very friendly staff, from the moment of booking until the end of the trip.
We went on a Safari through Northern Kenya, always in very well selected accommodation and with great proximity to wild animals.
We started in Aberdares Mountains where we stayed in a high quality lodge surrounded by animals. We then continued on to Samburu Reserve, Meru National Park and, at the end, Ol Pejeta Conservancy. In all the accommodations, the staff was impeccable, and the proximity to the animals was incredible. Our guide Tony was very friendly, well prepared, attentive and concerned about our well-being and ensuring that we saw as many animals as we could. All lunches and dinners were included in the program and were very well chosen.
It was an excellent trip and, you know, one to repeat.
Skrevet 16. februar 2024
Denne anmeldelsen er den subjektive meningen til et Tripadvisor-medlem og kommer ikke fra Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor sjekker anmeldelser.
Antonio B
Matosinhos, Portugal50 bidrag
feb. 2024 • Familie
Once again I turned to Maurice responsible for this agency to organize a Safari, this time through Northern Kenya around the majestic Mount Kenya. I started in Aberdares Mountains where we stayed in a high quality lodge surrounded by wild animals, we continued on to Samburu Reserve with large plains and animals, then Meru National Park of indescribable beauty in the middle of the mountains and with the rhinos waiting for us. In the end we closed in beauty at the Ol pejeta conservancy where there was no shortage of lions, rhinos, elephants, giraffes etc etc etc. The Serena lodge here with views of Mount Kenya is the best I've seen!! The car that transported us had all the necessary amenities. All lunches and dinners were included in the program and were very well chosen. In addition to Maurice, I couldn't help but praise our guide Tony, very well prepared on all wildlife topics. Just the best quality/price ratio, I consulted several operators and I think I made the right choice.
Skrevet 9. februar 2024
Denne anmeldelsen er den subjektive meningen til et Tripadvisor-medlem og kommer ikke fra Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor sjekker anmeldelser.
Companion56808369472
34 bidrag
nov. 2023 • Par
This was my second experience using Africa Safari Classics. This time I traveled with my wife and in her words this "was the trip of a lifetime." The personal touch from owner Maurice along with his organizational skills was exactly what we were looking for and what we received. Our itinerary was logical and diverse and our guides were simply the best. The camps at the park sites we visited were at the highest standards with kind, courteous staff and top level dining. The safaris were personal and our guide was always there for us. With no guarantees on seeing any of the special animals, we managed to see them all. And all were up close and the no rush approach made for an extremely moving experience. We could not be more satisfied with Africa Safari Classics. I brought my teen daughter over in 2019 and now my wife in 2023. I hope to return again and without a doubt will utilize Maurice and his company.
Skrevet 9. desember 2023
Denne anmeldelsen er den subjektive meningen til et Tripadvisor-medlem og kommer ikke fra Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor sjekker anmeldelser.
Katharine B
4 bidrag
okt. 2023 • Par
Our couples trip to Kenya, Tanzania and Zanzibar was truly amazing and a once-in-a-lifetime experience. We went to Nairobi, Amboseli (Serena Lodge), Lake Nakuru (Sarova Lion Lodge), Masaii Mara (Basecamp Mara), Serengeti (Tortillis Seregeti Camp), Ngorongoro crater (Ang'ata camp) and Zanzibar (Next Paradise Boutique Resort) over ~2 weeks. There is no way we could have figured out all the logistics and air/ travel without Maurice from Africa Safari Classics.
He and their team made it an easy and seamless experience. They communicated well, took care of us before we landed, provided guidance for everything we needed. what to pack, and how much to tip. After we landed, they met us at the airport, provided all transfers, and had their experienced drivers transport us around the country. Their drivers took us out on their game drives. We loved our time with Tony in Keyna and Saidi in Tanzania. Both are very experienced guides with a collective 29 year of experience. They know how to find the animals and get in the right position to see and take photos. They know the area like the back of their hand (without GPS as you would NOT find these places without them) and allow you to feel safe and cared for. They knew the answer to basically every question we asked.
We were also able to visit a Masai village, have a Bush dinner, and learn about their nomadic culture. It was wonderful to talk over camp fires and learn about their experiences. You feel really safe when the Masaii are protecting the camp!!
The service at every camp and hotel was exceptional and whenever we had a question or issue, Maurice was quickly available to triage.
I will say that I am NOT a camper. LIterally never go in the U.S. But these were pretty luxury experiences with toilets and a hot shower in addition to a comfortable bed. I was a bit worried before we went but it was truly exceptional, and so much more peaceful than I had anticipated.
In summary: I would highly recommend. Just do it! Thank you Africa Safari Classics for giving us the most magical trip and keeping it within our budget.
He and their team made it an easy and seamless experience. They communicated well, took care of us before we landed, provided guidance for everything we needed. what to pack, and how much to tip. After we landed, they met us at the airport, provided all transfers, and had their experienced drivers transport us around the country. Their drivers took us out on their game drives. We loved our time with Tony in Keyna and Saidi in Tanzania. Both are very experienced guides with a collective 29 year of experience. They know how to find the animals and get in the right position to see and take photos. They know the area like the back of their hand (without GPS as you would NOT find these places without them) and allow you to feel safe and cared for. They knew the answer to basically every question we asked.
We were also able to visit a Masai village, have a Bush dinner, and learn about their nomadic culture. It was wonderful to talk over camp fires and learn about their experiences. You feel really safe when the Masaii are protecting the camp!!
The service at every camp and hotel was exceptional and whenever we had a question or issue, Maurice was quickly available to triage.
I will say that I am NOT a camper. LIterally never go in the U.S. But these were pretty luxury experiences with toilets and a hot shower in addition to a comfortable bed. I was a bit worried before we went but it was truly exceptional, and so much more peaceful than I had anticipated.
In summary: I would highly recommend. Just do it! Thank you Africa Safari Classics for giving us the most magical trip and keeping it within our budget.
Skrevet 31. oktober 2023
Denne anmeldelsen er den subjektive meningen til et Tripadvisor-medlem og kommer ikke fra Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor sjekker anmeldelser.
Roseylaz
Buenos Aires, Argentina
Hello Maurice,
A friend of mine recommended Africa Safari Classics because I am thinking of going to Kenia and have the safari experience, but I need to start with something really important. I want to do this trip during late April/early May. I have read that this is rain season and some don't recommend going during this period. The thing is I want to combine this with Zanzibar beaches or I might consider Seychelles too. I need your expert and honest opinion, specially about the beach part. Should I go ahead? Or do you think it is not a good idea to do this trip that time of the year?
I sent you 2 emails like this one, if you would like to reply via email.
I appreciate your help.
Thank you,
Rosa
Skrevet 24. januar 2019
Hello Rosa,
Many thanks for your message. Will be delighted to arrange this trip for you. I have already replied to you by email. Pls confirm received.
Best regards
Maurice
Skrevet 25. januar 2019
Hi, I am looking to do a Safari trip with Bespoke Safaris, Simon Ball is the name of the man helping me. In your review title, you mention Bespoke, but in the review it is about Africa Safari Classics. Are they somehow affiliated? Just curious what you know about Bespoke Safari specifically. Thanks!
Skrevet 5. november 2018
Hi Ryan, Many thanks for your inquiry. We are Africa Safari Classics and specialize in Bespoke safari itineraries all over Africa.
Skrevet 15. november 2018
I am having trouble reaching staff , how do I reach mr Maurice ... My dad recently purchases a safari package via wire for my husband and me but we have not heard back from him in two days .... jordan
Skrevet 10. oktober 2018
Hello Jordan,
I am in touch with your dad regarding the wire transfer.
You can contact me by calling + 254 722 726 990
+1 209 813 4212 (reaches me Kenya)
Pls get in touch with me ASAP for any further assistance regarding this trip. Thanks, Maurice, Sales Director.
Skrevet 21. oktober 2018
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