Original post
bonjour
Est ce que quelqu'un aurait des infos sur la société africadventure qui s'occupe notamment de faire des safaris au kenya??
OU des infos sur d'autres société intéressantes et bien ??
Merci
a+
Africadventure pour un safari au Kenya?
by Jeanmi007
This discussion is in French, the community’s main language.
Bonjour, je suis de retour depuis lundi de 18 jours passés au kenya où nous avions organisé un safari privé de France avec African Quest...Nous avons eu un safari magnifique, la société a été plus que correcte (services en plus etc..)...c'est la deuxieme fois que je travaille avec eux et vraiment, ils sont au top, en plus les dirigeant Taher et Tasneem (frere et soeur) parlent Francais...tu peux les contacter de la part d'Emmanuelle..il n'y a pas de souci ..Par contre de Monbasa, nous a vons fait une journée en Quad avec african diani adventure, mais je ne sais pas s'il s'agit de la même société dont tu parles...Je reste à ta disposition...Au plaisir...
hakuna matata, Carpe diem
Manue
African Diani Aventure n'est pas la même société .
Par contre de lire un post vantant African quest dans une discussion sur Africadventure m'a fait de la peine 🤪 Pour rappel, African quest est justement l'agence qui a gaché une partie de mon voyage de noces il y a deux ans. 😠 et en entendre du bien me met toujours mal à l'aise 🏴☠️
Par contre de lire un post vantant African quest dans une discussion sur Africadventure m'a fait de la peine 🤪 Pour rappel, African quest est justement l'agence qui a gaché une partie de mon voyage de noces il y a deux ans. 😠 et en entendre du bien me met toujours mal à l'aise 🏴☠️
Chinook
Milles excuses Chinook mais quand j'ai écrit mon message, ce n'était qu'une réponse à jeanmi, je n'avais même pas vu ton message qui suivait...pour reparler d'african quest, je suis là encore navrée d'avoir mis les pieds dans le plats🤪, mais à dire la vérité, ce support est un forum où chacun doit faire partager son ressentir...j'ai fais paratager le mien...je ne connais pas tes problemes avec african quest, mais de mon côté ils ne pouvaient pas être plus au top : Le jour de notre arrivée en train, nous avons débarqué avec 3 heures de retard, ils nous on offert le repas au resto du midi...le guide paralait un francais impécable alors que dans notre tarif il nous été imposé un guide anglophone pour faire baisser le prix...le bus contenait une glacier d'eau constement plein à notre dispo, ce n'était pas non plus sur la facture..notre dernier jour de safari nous devions rentrer à 16h, mais finalemtn notre retour a été à 19h30, ce qui nous a permis d'assisyter au coucher de soleil etc...
Avec tout cela, je comprends que vous ayez pu avoir de probleme, mais de mon coté je ne peux pas dire de mal de cette société..que je connais depuis 11 ans..Milles excuses encore!!
hakuna matata, Carpe diem
Manue
le guide parlait un francais impécable alors que dans notre tarif il nous été imposé un guide anglophone pour faire baisser le prix...le bus contenait une glacier d'eau constement plein à notre dispo, ce n'était pas non plus sur la facture..--
Nous c'était exactement le contraire, on a attendu plus d'une heure qu'ils viennent nous chercher à l'aéroport, de la ils nous ont fait traverser la ville pour changer de chauffeur, si bien qu'on est arrivé au crater lake pour notre déjeuner à 16 h après que notre chauffeur se soit perdu plusieurs fois et ait renversé un mouton, le laissant agonisant sur le bord de la route .On avait un guide francophone de prévu et on eu ...Banda qui ne parlait pas un mot de français et très très peu d'anglais...paresseux comme une couleuvre, si bien qu'on a super profité des piscines des lodges ..mais vu très peu des parcs 😠. Idem on a repayé l'eau qui état comprise, ça c'est un détail. J'ai téléphoné 3 fois en 5 jours à Tasneem ..;et rien à faire, on a gardé Banda ..qui était un de leur meilleur chauffeur paraît-il ! J'ai logé à Sweetwaters, mais notre safari s'est réduit à 30 minutes en tout + pas de visite du sanctuaire des chimpanzes, alors que c'est précisément pour cela qu'on y allait ! Et au lieu de Samburu, ils nous emmené à Buffalo Spring ..et une fois de plus, malgré mes appels téléphoniques ( bonjour la note Gsm ), ils ont refusé de rectifier, me disant que Buffalo Spring était très bien aussi . J'avais insisté pour aller à Samburu car j'y avais rendez-vous avec des amis, qui m'ont attendu au point de vue pour sabrer le champagne pour fêter notre mariage ..et ne nous ont jamais vu arriver ! Finalement, on était ravis que ce safari se termine . heureusement on avait eu la chance d'en faire un fabuleux juste avant, sinon, je crois qu'African Quest aurait réussi à me dégouter de l'Afrique . Heureusement, parce qu'aujourd'hui, je n'aurais pas le bonheur de travailler en relation avec ma passion des voyages et de la terre Africaine .
Je suis contente de lire que tu as été plus chanceuse que moi .
Nous c'était exactement le contraire, on a attendu plus d'une heure qu'ils viennent nous chercher à l'aéroport, de la ils nous ont fait traverser la ville pour changer de chauffeur, si bien qu'on est arrivé au crater lake pour notre déjeuner à 16 h après que notre chauffeur se soit perdu plusieurs fois et ait renversé un mouton, le laissant agonisant sur le bord de la route .On avait un guide francophone de prévu et on eu ...Banda qui ne parlait pas un mot de français et très très peu d'anglais...paresseux comme une couleuvre, si bien qu'on a super profité des piscines des lodges ..mais vu très peu des parcs 😠. Idem on a repayé l'eau qui état comprise, ça c'est un détail. J'ai téléphoné 3 fois en 5 jours à Tasneem ..;et rien à faire, on a gardé Banda ..qui était un de leur meilleur chauffeur paraît-il ! J'ai logé à Sweetwaters, mais notre safari s'est réduit à 30 minutes en tout + pas de visite du sanctuaire des chimpanzes, alors que c'est précisément pour cela qu'on y allait ! Et au lieu de Samburu, ils nous emmené à Buffalo Spring ..et une fois de plus, malgré mes appels téléphoniques ( bonjour la note Gsm ), ils ont refusé de rectifier, me disant que Buffalo Spring était très bien aussi . J'avais insisté pour aller à Samburu car j'y avais rendez-vous avec des amis, qui m'ont attendu au point de vue pour sabrer le champagne pour fêter notre mariage ..et ne nous ont jamais vu arriver ! Finalement, on était ravis que ce safari se termine . heureusement on avait eu la chance d'en faire un fabuleux juste avant, sinon, je crois qu'African Quest aurait réussi à me dégouter de l'Afrique . Heureusement, parce qu'aujourd'hui, je n'aurais pas le bonheur de travailler en relation avec ma passion des voyages et de la terre Africaine .
Je suis contente de lire que tu as été plus chanceuse que moi .
Chinook
oh là!, ...la cata!!!...oui je comprends, en plus pour un voyage de noce, je crois que moi j'aurais mis le feu à l'agence!!!...C'est étrange comme une société peut agir différement...inutile de te dire que je préfère du coup être à ma place!!..J'ai eu plus de chance les deux fois ont été impec..Je trouve génial que tu comprenes qu'ils ne sont en aucun cas représentatifs du Kenya et que tu continues à aimer l'afrique...Beaucoup aurait résumé le truc rapidement en disant que les kényan sont des voleurs...
Je vois que tu pars en Ouganda...j'adorerais le faire...
Au plaisir
hakuna matata, Carpe diem
Manue
Merci de ton commentaire .
En tout cas, ils m'ont dégoûtée du safari " tarte à la crème "
J'avais eu la chance de faire un safari en cesna privé avec Alexis Peltier avant celui avec African quest ...et je crois qu je suis tombé amoureuse de l'Afrique pendant ce séjour et rien, jamais, ne me fera cesser d'aimer l'Afrique ( quoi que 😛..;traiter avec les africains est parfois épique )
J'ai hâte de partir en Ouganda, ce pays a l'air tellement sublime ... On va aussi faire une petite incursion au Congo Je viendrai poster un petit compte rendu de mon voyage fin septembre sans faute . Si un jour, tu as besoin d'info Ouganda, n'hésites pas . Ce sera avec grand plaisir
Cordialement
J'avais eu la chance de faire un safari en cesna privé avec Alexis Peltier avant celui avec African quest ...et je crois qu je suis tombé amoureuse de l'Afrique pendant ce séjour et rien, jamais, ne me fera cesser d'aimer l'Afrique ( quoi que 😛..;traiter avec les africains est parfois épique )
J'ai hâte de partir en Ouganda, ce pays a l'air tellement sublime ... On va aussi faire une petite incursion au Congo Je viendrai poster un petit compte rendu de mon voyage fin septembre sans faute . Si un jour, tu as besoin d'info Ouganda, n'hésites pas . Ce sera avec grand plaisir
Cordialement
Chinook
Bon, pour revenir à la question de base de jeanmi007, je viens de rentré (hier) d'un séjour au Kenya organisé plus qu'a la dernière minute (qlq jours avant de partir pour commencer à chercher des contacts) et, j'ai eu la grande chance d'obtenir de la part d'Africadventure des propositions vraiment nickel. Ils m'ont bien aiguillé sur l'organisation du séjour et ce sont occupé de tout les détails pratique. Quand je suis arrivé a l'aéroport le 8, je n'ai eu qu'a me diriger vers la personne présente pour m'accueillir et ensuite, tout c'est enchainé sans une rature et j'ai passé 10 jours vraiment géniaux au Kenya (magnifique pays soit dit en passant). Mon séjour a été vraiment bien rempli (Safari au Masaï, Nairobi, Mombassa, ...) et je n'ai jamais perdu une minute a attendre quelqu'un ou quelque chose. Vraiment aucun aucun regrets!!!
Je te conseille donc cette compagnie plus trés vivement JeanMi !!!! 😉
Je te conseille donc cette compagnie plus trés vivement JeanMi !!!! 😉
Je me permets de donner moi aussi mon avis sur Aficadventure, avec qui je suis partie cet été. Voilà le mail que j'ai envoyé à mon contact à mon retour. J'en ai été très déçue.
En ce qui concerne le safari, on a été assez déçus... L'accueil à l'aéroport a été parfait, chaleureux, très gentil. Ils nous ont même déposés gracieusement à notre hôtel! On était très impressionés, et rassurés sur notre choix de TO. Le jour du départ, nous sommes passés par l'agence pour payer l'accompte (mes dollars étaient trop vieux il a fallu que j'aille à la banque...). Du coup nous sommes déjà partis un peu en retard sur le programme. Ensuite, nous avons attendu 1 heure dans le minibus, seuls, pcq notre cuisinier faisait les courses, et ensuite pcq la police réclamait des stickers qui n'étaient pas présents sur le pare brise... La route jusqu'au parc s'est bien passé, si ce n'est que déjà notre chauffeur ne parlait pas du tout. Il s'est arrêté plusieurs fois, sans rien nous dire, descendait du minibus, et ne revenait qu'un quart d'heure plus tard sans explication... La première grosse déconvenue pour nous a été la découverte du camp. J'avais particulièrement insisté avec toi sur notre envie de dormir à l'intérieur du parc "parmi" les animaux. Or, nous avons dormi dans le camp d'amicabre, qui est certes tout à côté de la gate, mais qui n'est pas dans le parc. Les seuls animaux que j'ai entendu sont les vaches des maasais le matin... Vraiment nous étions très très déçus. Bien sûr le camp était très confortable. Nous avons dormi dans des grandes tentes avec sommiers et matelas. Dès le premier soir, notre chauffeur a disparu. Impossible de le trouver pour discuter du programme du lendemain. En fait un autre guide nous a dit qu'il était parti dormir ailleurs pour chercher de la ""chaleur"" ailleurs. Assez déroutant... Je m'étais imaginée que nous allions manger le soir avec notre guide et peut-être notre cuisinier, pouvoir nouer quelques liens... Rien de cela. Par contre notre cuisinier, Joseph, était adorable!! Toujours aux petits soins pour nous, particulièrement à ceux de mon amie enceinte. Comme nous avons regretté ne pas l'avoir avec nous dans le minibus lors des game drive... Nous n'avons pas eu la sensation d'avoir droit à des game drive "illimités" et sûrement pas d'avoir le chauffeur "à disposition". A chacune de nos demandes, Samuel notre chauffeur, nous répondait que ce n'était pas dans le programme classique, etc etc. Malgré toute notre insistance, nous n'avons pas réussi une seule fois à être dans le parc à l'ouverture (6H30) pour profiter de l'aube naissante et de sa belle lumière. De même nous ne sommes jamais sorti du parc plus tard que 18H. Un autre point de déception était que Samuel ne parlait absolument pas (timidité? manque de maîtrise de la langue anglaise??). On posait des questions sur les animaux, il répondait quelques mots. Je me souviens d'une fois où je lui ai demandé ce qui se trouvait sur le côté de la voiture, il m'a répondu "animals"... A l'hippo pool, il nous a laissé seuls, quand tous les groupes étaient accompagnés de leurs guides... Un guide est même venu nous parler et nous a expliqué des tas de choses sur les hippopotames, en quelques minutes. J'étais encore plus frustrée de voir que tous les guides n'étaient pas comme le notre (on s'est posé la question...!). De plus, il n'avait rien d'un guide, mais tout d'un chauffeur. Il suivait les autres minibus!!! Nous lui avons demandé quelques fois de dépasser des attroupements autour d'un lion, de continuer. Il le faisait mais s'empressait de retrouver un autre minibus à suivre. C'était désespérant... Le 4e jour, on a eu un autre problème. Dans le programme que tu m'as envoyé, et que j'ai validé avec toi, il était prévu 2 games drive. Un au maasai mara le matin, et un autre le soir à Nakuru. Nous n'en avons fait aucun des deux. L'agence nous a remboursé les fees du maasai mara, mais pas ceux de Nakuru. Samuel nous disait que ce n'était pas dans le programme (et bêtement je n'avais pas imprimé nos mails. Mais je me suis empressé de le faire à Nairobi pour aller voir l'agence)... En conséquence, notre safari nous laisse un goût d'inachevé et de lassitude. Ce n'était vraiment pas des vacances que de devoir toujours courir après notre chauffeur, toujours poser des questions qui restent sans réponses, devoir dire "non" 12 fois à la visite du village maasai (que Samuel nous a présenté comme une visite non optionnelle!), etc etc. Je précise bien sûr que nous avons parlé tous les jours avec Samuel, pour tenter de nous expliquer, de comprendre ce qui n'allait pas, etc. C'était vraiment très dur, on n'arrivait pas à savoir si nous étions trop exigeant. En parlant avec d'autres groupes et d'autres guides, on a compris finalement que ce n'était pas normal. Voilà l'agence nous a remboursé des fees, mais je me fiche pas mal des dollars. Je ne pense pas pouvoir refaire de safari de si tôt, l'important pour moi et pour nous était que cela se passe bien... C'est pour cela que j'ai passé tant de temps avec toi, à bien poser toutes les questions, pour être sûre de notre choix. Bien sûr, je garde le souvenir de vacances magnifiques, de paysages somptueux, et la magie de la rencontre avec les animaux. Mais je me souviens aussi du soulagement que l'on a ressenti en quittant notre guide... Je ne recommanderai donc pas l'agence. Marie.
Bonjour
Je ne vais pas rentrer dans les détails, ce n'est pas le but d'un forum, mais peut-être juste apporter quelques éléments d'informations qui pourraient être utiles au futurs voyageurs au Kenya
Dans un safari camping, dont le prix journalier tourne autour de 90 à 100 $, il est compris un droit d'entrée par jour dans un parc ou réserve de 40 $, les 50 à 60 $ restant servant à couvrir les frais de la voiture, essence, chauffeur, cuisinier, frais de camping et matériel ainsi que la nourriture .
Les chauffeurs et cuisinier en safari prestent de longues journées d'environ 12 heures et donc rien ne les oblige à passer leurs soirées avec leurs clients et généralement, ils ne le font pas, sauf exeption. De plus ils ne sont en général pas à l'aise de manger avec les blancs et ne mangent pas la même chose . La plupart des touristes ne le souhaitent d'ailleurs pas non plus . Donc à moins d'une entente particulière entre le chaufferu et le touriste, les repas ne se prennent pas ensemble
La plupart des campings dans les parcs gérés par le KWS sont situés à l'intérieur des parcs, par contre au Masai Mara qui ne dépend pas du KWS mais est géré de manière privée, tous les campings sont à présent situés juste en dehors des gates, ce qui fondamentalement ne change rien dans la mesure ou le parc n'est pas clôturé et sa limite, purement administrative n'est pas respectées par les animaux sauvages qui se promènent donc bien souvent dans les camping mais pas toujours ; cela dépend de leur envie
Je te rejoinds tout à fait concernant les prossessions de minibus au Masai Mara, principalement pendant les mois de juillet août et septembre où l'affluence de touristes est très ( trop ) importante et la déseprérente habitude des chauffeurs de se suivre et communiquer par radio, ce qui provoque imanquablement de gros attroupements autour d'un lion . Les chauffeurs font ainsi car il savent que leurs clients veulent absolument voir le big five en deux jours et donc il font de leur mieux pour leur offrir cela mais tout a fait d'accord que ce la manque de charme et d'authenticité.
Je ne vais pas rentrer dans les détails, ce n'est pas le but d'un forum, mais peut-être juste apporter quelques éléments d'informations qui pourraient être utiles au futurs voyageurs au Kenya
Dans un safari camping, dont le prix journalier tourne autour de 90 à 100 $, il est compris un droit d'entrée par jour dans un parc ou réserve de 40 $, les 50 à 60 $ restant servant à couvrir les frais de la voiture, essence, chauffeur, cuisinier, frais de camping et matériel ainsi que la nourriture .
Les chauffeurs et cuisinier en safari prestent de longues journées d'environ 12 heures et donc rien ne les oblige à passer leurs soirées avec leurs clients et généralement, ils ne le font pas, sauf exeption. De plus ils ne sont en général pas à l'aise de manger avec les blancs et ne mangent pas la même chose . La plupart des touristes ne le souhaitent d'ailleurs pas non plus . Donc à moins d'une entente particulière entre le chaufferu et le touriste, les repas ne se prennent pas ensemble
La plupart des campings dans les parcs gérés par le KWS sont situés à l'intérieur des parcs, par contre au Masai Mara qui ne dépend pas du KWS mais est géré de manière privée, tous les campings sont à présent situés juste en dehors des gates, ce qui fondamentalement ne change rien dans la mesure ou le parc n'est pas clôturé et sa limite, purement administrative n'est pas respectées par les animaux sauvages qui se promènent donc bien souvent dans les camping mais pas toujours ; cela dépend de leur envie
Je te rejoinds tout à fait concernant les prossessions de minibus au Masai Mara, principalement pendant les mois de juillet août et septembre où l'affluence de touristes est très ( trop ) importante et la déseprérente habitude des chauffeurs de se suivre et communiquer par radio, ce qui provoque imanquablement de gros attroupements autour d'un lion . Les chauffeurs font ainsi car il savent que leurs clients veulent absolument voir le big five en deux jours et donc il font de leur mieux pour leur offrir cela mais tout a fait d'accord que ce la manque de charme et d'authenticité.
Chinook
Chinook,
Le but d'un forum est d'informer d'autres personnes susceptibles de rencontrer les mêmes situations. Il me semble donc tout indiqué de raconter mon expérience avec ce Tour Operator.
Africadventure et Amicabre s'étaient engagés à nous offrir des campements à l'intérieur des parcs. Nous ne visitions qu'un seul parc, le maasai mara. Alors ils nous ont délibérement menti à ce sujet? Je leur ai posé plusieurs fois la question, et plusieurs fois ils nous ont dit que nous dormirions au milieu de la brousse, DANS le parc. Ils n'ont juste pas été honnetes à ce propos qui était très important pour nous. On peut se permettre de douter d'une agence qui te cache ou te donne de mauvaises informations sur un sujet tel que l'hébergement.
Quant à la persévérance des chauffeurs à suivre les autres minibus car leurs clients veulent faire le big five en 2 jours soit. Sauf que nous étions 4 personnes dans le minibus, 4 personnes qui disaient et répétaient à notre chauffeur que le big five ne nous intéréssait pas, que nous souhaitions nous balader dans le parc hors des attroupements quitte à voir moins d'animaux. Voir un lion au milieu de 25 minibus, c'est ... les mots me manquent. Mieux vaux ne voir ""que"" de la brousse et ses merveilleux paysages, sans tous ces minibus. Mais notre chauffeur n'avait que faire de nos souhaits, il aimait rester avec ses amis afin de manger ensemble à midi, ou discuter lors de pauses.
Le but d'un forum est d'informer d'autres personnes susceptibles de rencontrer les mêmes situations. Il me semble donc tout indiqué de raconter mon expérience avec ce Tour Operator.
Africadventure et Amicabre s'étaient engagés à nous offrir des campements à l'intérieur des parcs. Nous ne visitions qu'un seul parc, le maasai mara. Alors ils nous ont délibérement menti à ce sujet? Je leur ai posé plusieurs fois la question, et plusieurs fois ils nous ont dit que nous dormirions au milieu de la brousse, DANS le parc. Ils n'ont juste pas été honnetes à ce propos qui était très important pour nous. On peut se permettre de douter d'une agence qui te cache ou te donne de mauvaises informations sur un sujet tel que l'hébergement.
Quant à la persévérance des chauffeurs à suivre les autres minibus car leurs clients veulent faire le big five en 2 jours soit. Sauf que nous étions 4 personnes dans le minibus, 4 personnes qui disaient et répétaient à notre chauffeur que le big five ne nous intéréssait pas, que nous souhaitions nous balader dans le parc hors des attroupements quitte à voir moins d'animaux. Voir un lion au milieu de 25 minibus, c'est ... les mots me manquent. Mieux vaux ne voir ""que"" de la brousse et ses merveilleux paysages, sans tous ces minibus. Mais notre chauffeur n'avait que faire de nos souhaits, il aimait rester avec ses amis afin de manger ensemble à midi, ou discuter lors de pauses.
Je t'ai répondu en privé.
Pour le camping dans le Mara La gestion du Masai Mara ne dépend pas du KWS mais est une gestion privée et ils ont décidé d'interdire le camping dans la réserve et de laisser uniquement les camping en bordure du parc . Aucune des agences a qui tu avais demandé une offre ne t'a menti, simplement la situation a changé et tout le monde a du s'y adapter .
Dura lex sed lex.
Et donc dorénavant ce sera ainsi pour tous les gens qui souhaiteront camper au Masai Mara . Seuls les Lodges et tented camp de luxe sont autorisés ( et favorisés ) dans la réserve . Mais le camping reste une expérience de camping en brousse ..mais il est vrai de l'autre côté de la frontière administrative qu'heureusement les animaux ne respectent pas
Pour le camping dans le Mara La gestion du Masai Mara ne dépend pas du KWS mais est une gestion privée et ils ont décidé d'interdire le camping dans la réserve et de laisser uniquement les camping en bordure du parc . Aucune des agences a qui tu avais demandé une offre ne t'a menti, simplement la situation a changé et tout le monde a du s'y adapter .
Dura lex sed lex.
Et donc dorénavant ce sera ainsi pour tous les gens qui souhaiteront camper au Masai Mara . Seuls les Lodges et tented camp de luxe sont autorisés ( et favorisés ) dans la réserve . Mais le camping reste une expérience de camping en brousse ..mais il est vrai de l'autre côté de la frontière administrative qu'heureusement les animaux ne respectent pas
Chinook
Puisque tu sembles être bien au courant de la situation, je suppose que ce que tu a expliqué en privé c'est que quand des clients réservent un safari en dernière minute auprès d'un tour opérateur, réservation basée sur un engagement réciproque, sans versement d'accompte, et qu'ensuite, une fois sur place, ils renégocient leur safari auprès de l'agence réceptive, le tour opérateur ne peut plus être garant du respect du programme initial .
Africadventure, comme tous les TO, a négocié des programmes qui lui sont propres auprès de son agence réceptive notamment le choix des logements, la durée des safaris, le choix des guides ...
Si les clients une fois sur place préfèrent renégocier d'autres conditions avec l'agence locale et d'ainsi créer une situation de confusion, c'est leur propre choix .
Mais je suis bien d'accord que c'est regrettable et que cela devient du bricolage
Africadventure, comme tous les TO, a négocié des programmes qui lui sont propres auprès de son agence réceptive notamment le choix des logements, la durée des safaris, le choix des guides ...
Si les clients une fois sur place préfèrent renégocier d'autres conditions avec l'agence locale et d'ainsi créer une situation de confusion, c'est leur propre choix .
Mais je suis bien d'accord que c'est regrettable et que cela devient du bricolage
Chinook
Sans avoir à rentrer dans les détails qui ne concernent que le TO, le réceptif et la cliente '' Lilimary '', c'est l'attidude du chauffeur / guide qui est regretable, pas professionnelle, et par là même celle de l'agence qui l'a recruté. C'est souvent ce qui arrive quand un To ( basé à l' étranger, en locurence en Ouganda) ne contrôle pas le déroulé des prestations au Kenya, et qu'il se fie à un réceptif incertain.
Mais cela peut aussi arriver à n'importe quelle agence locale, la preuve, ton expérience malheureuse avec African Quest que tu as relatée sur ce forum.
Cela dit, Africadventure ( Zed&Away, pardon, )reste un TO, que l'on peut éviter en s'adressant uniquement à un récéptif local au Kenya, ce sera toujours moins cher et plus direct. Et ce n'est pas toi qui vas me contredire après tous les messages envoyés par toi dans ce sens !! 😉
C'est souvent ce qui arrive quand un To ( basé à l' étranger, en locurence en Ouganda)
Oh zut ...moi qui croyais que Nairobi était au Kenya . va décidémment falloir que je m'achète un atlas 🤪
TO, que l'on peut éviter en s'adressant uniquement à un récéptif local au Kenya, ce sera toujours moins cher
Et si le but n'était pas d'être le moins cher ...
Oh zut ...moi qui croyais que Nairobi était au Kenya . va décidémment falloir que je m'achète un atlas 🤪
TO, que l'on peut éviter en s'adressant uniquement à un récéptif local au Kenya, ce sera toujours moins cher
Et si le but n'était pas d'être le moins cher ...
Chinook
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More discussions
Hello everyone!
It's been a year since I've been longing for South Africa. Our first trip in August 2025 amazed us, and—rarely—it was a unanimous hit with our little family! We were touched to the core, and from the moment we got home, we couldn’t stop talking about going back. 😄
I’d like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who gave me advice on the itinerary for that first trip (Johannesburg loop: Blyde, Kruger, Eswatini, St. Lucia, Durban, Drakensberg)! Thanks to you, our trip went like a dream!
Since then, I haven’t stopped reading articles and discussions on VoyageForum to keep my head in South Africa a little longer!
So, we finally caved and just booked our tickets for January 2027 (from the 3rd to the 26th), with a plan to do a road trip from Cape Town to Johannesburg in about 3 weeks.
I’ve got a rough itinerary that seems great based on what I’ve read on various forums, but there are still some uncertain points, and that’s where I could use your advice.
3/01: Arrival in Johannesburg at 11:45 PM 4/01: Flight to Cape Town, pick up rental car. Afternoon sightseeing 5,6,7/01: Cape Town to visit the big classics in the area (any tips for finding accommodation: which neighborhood, a specific place?) 8/01: Overnight stop before Oudtshoorn—but where??? (Is it essential, or is the CT-Oudtshoorn drive manageable? If so, I’d gain a day in Oudtshoorn. Google Maps shows over 5 hours of driving...) 9,10/01: Oudtshoorn (or would 3 nights be better to really enjoy the area?) 11,12/01: Knysna, Plettenberg Bay (to have time for hiking—if you’ve got hiking tips, I’m all ears!) 13,14/01: Tsitsikamma (still to have time for hiking—who knows the must-do hikes in the area? But maybe 4 nights in the Knysna-Tsitsikamma area is too much—I’m not sure) 16,17/01: Addo Elephant (I’m torn between 3 nights at Addo or 3 nights at Mountain Zebra. Based on travel journals, especially Michel’s on MZ, I’ve scheduled 3 nights at MZ 😄...) 18,19,20/01: Mountain Zebra NP 21/01: Camdeboo NP (because it looks so beautiful!) 22/01: Overnight stop (where?) before wrapping up the trip with either 2 or 3 nights at Golden Gate NP or the Lesotho option, which appeals to me, but I don’t know if it’s doable in 3 days to be back in Johannesburg by the afternoon of the 26th.
That’s my trip idea for now... I’m eagerly waiting for your advice, ideas, and comments... Can’t wait to be back there again!
3/01: Arrival in Johannesburg at 11:45 PM 4/01: Flight to Cape Town, pick up rental car. Afternoon sightseeing 5,6,7/01: Cape Town to visit the big classics in the area (any tips for finding accommodation: which neighborhood, a specific place?) 8/01: Overnight stop before Oudtshoorn—but where??? (Is it essential, or is the CT-Oudtshoorn drive manageable? If so, I’d gain a day in Oudtshoorn. Google Maps shows over 5 hours of driving...) 9,10/01: Oudtshoorn (or would 3 nights be better to really enjoy the area?) 11,12/01: Knysna, Plettenberg Bay (to have time for hiking—if you’ve got hiking tips, I’m all ears!) 13,14/01: Tsitsikamma (still to have time for hiking—who knows the must-do hikes in the area? But maybe 4 nights in the Knysna-Tsitsikamma area is too much—I’m not sure) 16,17/01: Addo Elephant (I’m torn between 3 nights at Addo or 3 nights at Mountain Zebra. Based on travel journals, especially Michel’s on MZ, I’ve scheduled 3 nights at MZ 😄...) 18,19,20/01: Mountain Zebra NP 21/01: Camdeboo NP (because it looks so beautiful!) 22/01: Overnight stop (where?) before wrapping up the trip with either 2 or 3 nights at Golden Gate NP or the Lesotho option, which appeals to me, but I don’t know if it’s doable in 3 days to be back in Johannesburg by the afternoon of the 26th.
That’s my trip idea for now... I’m eagerly waiting for your advice, ideas, and comments... Can’t wait to be back there again!
Hi there,
I’m planning a potential trip to Namibia for a classic circuit in April 2027.
I’m surprised by how expensive the accommodations inside the parks are—really steep! Is it possible to stay outside the parks but still close enough to enjoy the game drives?
Do you have any recommendations for more reasonably priced lodging? I’m okay with spending 200 to 250 € per night.
No camping—the friend I’m traveling with absolutely refuses 😉, but maybe upgraded tents would work.
Thanks in advance, and have a great evening! !
I’m planning a potential trip to Namibia for a classic circuit in April 2027.
I’m surprised by how expensive the accommodations inside the parks are—really steep! Is it possible to stay outside the parks but still close enough to enjoy the game drives?
Do you have any recommendations for more reasonably priced lodging? I’m okay with spending 200 to 250 € per night.
No camping—the friend I’m traveling with absolutely refuses 😉, but maybe upgraded tents would work.
Thanks in advance, and have a great evening! !
Hi everyone,
We’re revising our travel plans for January 2027. Originally, we were considering Uganda for about 14/15 days, but given the current health situation and the restrictions that might affect my partner, who’s American, we’ve decided to switch to Tanzania instead.
I’m used to traveling in South Africa and organizing my trips myself, but I get the impression that planning a safari in Tanzania is quite different.
I know self-drive isn’t really an option in Tanzania. So my main question is: can you organize your own itinerary and book lodges directly, then hire a local driver-guide? Or is it better to go through a local agency that handles the entire safari?
For the itinerary, which parks would you recommend for a first-time visit in January? Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Tarangire, Manyara, Ruaha, Arusha, Selous…
We’d also like to include Zanzibar to end the trip with a few days at the beach. Over 14/15 days, does that sound realistic or too ambitious?
Finally, for flights, is it better to arrive at Kilimanjaro (JRO) or Dar es Salaam (DAR) based on the itinerary we’re considering?
Thanks in advance for your feedback, especially on the best way to organize the safari and which parks to prioritize in January!
Hi, I'm looking for information on the road conditions in Moremi. We're leaving in 15 days, and from what I've heard, the roads are pretty tough to drive on. Any advice?
Thanks
🏔️ KILIMANJARO – 4 SPOTS LEFT! 🇹🇿
Dream of standing on the roof of Africa at 5,895 m? I’m looking for 4 people to complete our group for the Kilimanjaro ascent in Tanzania. 📅 September 17–28, 2026 👥 Small group 🥾 Suitable for experienced hikers 🏔️ Goal: Uhuru Peak – 5,895 m 🇹🇿 Local team specialized in Kilimanjaro 🎒 Porters during the ascent 🍽️ Meals and trek organization included 🧗♂️ Trip led by a French state-certified Mountain Leader
September is a great time to attempt the Kilimanjaro ascent. 🔥 Only 4 spots left. The departure is confirmed. No need to be a mountaineer—just be in good shape, love hiking, and want to experience an incredible adventure. 👋 If you’re alone, no problem: you’ll join our small group directly. 📧 Send me a message for the full program, price, and all the details.
Don’t hesitate to share this post with your hiking friends! 😊 Mafate Randos
Dream of standing on the roof of Africa at 5,895 m? I’m looking for 4 people to complete our group for the Kilimanjaro ascent in Tanzania. 📅 September 17–28, 2026 👥 Small group 🥾 Suitable for experienced hikers 🏔️ Goal: Uhuru Peak – 5,895 m 🇹🇿 Local team specialized in Kilimanjaro 🎒 Porters during the ascent 🍽️ Meals and trek organization included 🧗♂️ Trip led by a French state-certified Mountain Leader
September is a great time to attempt the Kilimanjaro ascent. 🔥 Only 4 spots left. The departure is confirmed. No need to be a mountaineer—just be in good shape, love hiking, and want to experience an incredible adventure. 👋 If you’re alone, no problem: you’ll join our small group directly. 📧 Send me a message for the full program, price, and all the details.
Don’t hesitate to share this post with your hiking friends! 😊 Mafate Randos
Just returned from a three-week family trip to Kenya (with three kids aged 10, 12, and 15), and I wanted to share my experience. Forums were super helpful in planning this trip, especially if you want to get a bit off the beaten path.
First off, Kenya is an amazing destination with incredibly friendly and welcoming locals. It was easy to travel around because you can always find someone to give you directions or help you out.
For practical tips—though you’ve probably read this elsewhere—get a Safaricom SIM card when you arrive at the airport so you can pay via M-Pesa (you can top it up with a credit card using the Wise app) and chat with people on WhatsApp. It’ll make your life *so* much easier (booking trains, buses, park entries, etc.) and save you from carrying too much cash or hunting for ATMs.
Also, we went during the first three weeks of July, which wasn’t peak tourist season.
One thing to note: even if you’re using public transport and budget accommodations, Kenya can still be pricey because tourist attractions add up fast—often more expensive than in France. But honestly, it’s usually worth it!
We started our trip with a 5-day homestay. We were welcomed by a really lovely family in Loitokitok with a view of Kilimanjaro right from their garden entrance (just a heads-up: in July, it’s often shrouded in mist!). To find them, search for Greenfield Homestay in Loitokitok. It was a fantastic experience, especially with kids! On top of transfers, they organized several outings with locals: a hike to the Tanzanian border, a motorcycle ride on the foothills of Kilimanjaro, and a day safari in Amboseli. You can book with them eyes closed! For the safari, Anthony (who’s English-speaking) took us around—he’s from the area and knows the park like the back of his hand. Highly recommend him!
Anthony then drove us to Isiolo, a town in the north that’s just starting to open up to tourism. We wanted to see the Monday livestock market, where different ethnic groups gather to buy and sell goats, sheep, and cows (according to Lonely Planet). We were a bit disappointed and wouldn’t recommend it. We also visited Ngare Ndare Forest, which has a stunning waterfall, an interesting walk with an armed ranger (elephants are common), and a suspension bridge for admiring the canopy. Just make sure to let them know you’re coming at least three days in advance to guarantee a ranger will be available. We also did a second safari day in Samburu—it’s a great complement to Amboseli and totally worth it!
Next, we headed to Naivasha (still with Anthony). We found a place on Airbnb (Jasmine House) at Fischerman’s Camp, a campsite we really loved! You’ll spot hippos, monkeys, and beautiful birds there. We organized several activities: a boat ride on the lake to see birds, zebras, and giraffes; a bike safari in Hell’s Gate Park (the campsite is right by the entrance and rents bikes); and a hike to Crater Lake (departing by boat from the campsite), where you walk among zebras, giraffes, and different gazelles. Naivasha is way more touristy than Loitokitok or Isiolo, but there’s no shortage of things to do.
Finally, we spent our last week in Watamu on the coast. To get there, we took an overnight ENA Coach bus from Naivasha to Mombasa, booked via https://www.travler.africa/. It was comfortable and fast, but you’ll need to call the driver to arrange a pickup spot—the restaurant staff at the campsite helped us out with that! Then we took an Uber to Watamu since we had a lot of luggage (we skipped the matatu).
Watamu is nicknamed "Little Italy" because of all the Italian tourists. When we were there (third week of July), it wasn’t peak season yet, so the beaches weren’t cleaned. But we loved the laid-back vibe and how easy it was to get around. We *highly* recommend the marine turtle rescue center—it’s fascinating (especially with kids) and supports a great cause! We were a bit disappointed by the marine park, though—maybe because of the season? There weren’t many fish, and jellyfish kinda ruined the snorkeling. The mangrove tour is also a must-do.
For the trip back to Nairobi, we took the express train from Mombasa. We booked our tickets when we first arrived in Kenya (since payment is only via M-Pesa). The train is reliable and comfortable, and we saw lots of elephants along the way. Just a heads-up: there are *a lot* of security checks, and we almost weren’t allowed to board with our Opinel knife…
If you have any questions, feel free to ask!
All in all, we had an amazing trip—so much variety, great encounters, and the magic of safaris!
First off, Kenya is an amazing destination with incredibly friendly and welcoming locals. It was easy to travel around because you can always find someone to give you directions or help you out.
For practical tips—though you’ve probably read this elsewhere—get a Safaricom SIM card when you arrive at the airport so you can pay via M-Pesa (you can top it up with a credit card using the Wise app) and chat with people on WhatsApp. It’ll make your life *so* much easier (booking trains, buses, park entries, etc.) and save you from carrying too much cash or hunting for ATMs.
Also, we went during the first three weeks of July, which wasn’t peak tourist season.
One thing to note: even if you’re using public transport and budget accommodations, Kenya can still be pricey because tourist attractions add up fast—often more expensive than in France. But honestly, it’s usually worth it!
We started our trip with a 5-day homestay. We were welcomed by a really lovely family in Loitokitok with a view of Kilimanjaro right from their garden entrance (just a heads-up: in July, it’s often shrouded in mist!). To find them, search for Greenfield Homestay in Loitokitok. It was a fantastic experience, especially with kids! On top of transfers, they organized several outings with locals: a hike to the Tanzanian border, a motorcycle ride on the foothills of Kilimanjaro, and a day safari in Amboseli. You can book with them eyes closed! For the safari, Anthony (who’s English-speaking) took us around—he’s from the area and knows the park like the back of his hand. Highly recommend him!
Anthony then drove us to Isiolo, a town in the north that’s just starting to open up to tourism. We wanted to see the Monday livestock market, where different ethnic groups gather to buy and sell goats, sheep, and cows (according to Lonely Planet). We were a bit disappointed and wouldn’t recommend it. We also visited Ngare Ndare Forest, which has a stunning waterfall, an interesting walk with an armed ranger (elephants are common), and a suspension bridge for admiring the canopy. Just make sure to let them know you’re coming at least three days in advance to guarantee a ranger will be available. We also did a second safari day in Samburu—it’s a great complement to Amboseli and totally worth it!
Next, we headed to Naivasha (still with Anthony). We found a place on Airbnb (Jasmine House) at Fischerman’s Camp, a campsite we really loved! You’ll spot hippos, monkeys, and beautiful birds there. We organized several activities: a boat ride on the lake to see birds, zebras, and giraffes; a bike safari in Hell’s Gate Park (the campsite is right by the entrance and rents bikes); and a hike to Crater Lake (departing by boat from the campsite), where you walk among zebras, giraffes, and different gazelles. Naivasha is way more touristy than Loitokitok or Isiolo, but there’s no shortage of things to do.
Finally, we spent our last week in Watamu on the coast. To get there, we took an overnight ENA Coach bus from Naivasha to Mombasa, booked via https://www.travler.africa/. It was comfortable and fast, but you’ll need to call the driver to arrange a pickup spot—the restaurant staff at the campsite helped us out with that! Then we took an Uber to Watamu since we had a lot of luggage (we skipped the matatu).
Watamu is nicknamed "Little Italy" because of all the Italian tourists. When we were there (third week of July), it wasn’t peak season yet, so the beaches weren’t cleaned. But we loved the laid-back vibe and how easy it was to get around. We *highly* recommend the marine turtle rescue center—it’s fascinating (especially with kids) and supports a great cause! We were a bit disappointed by the marine park, though—maybe because of the season? There weren’t many fish, and jellyfish kinda ruined the snorkeling. The mangrove tour is also a must-do.
For the trip back to Nairobi, we took the express train from Mombasa. We booked our tickets when we first arrived in Kenya (since payment is only via M-Pesa). The train is reliable and comfortable, and we saw lots of elephants along the way. Just a heads-up: there are *a lot* of security checks, and we almost weren’t allowed to board with our Opinel knife…
If you have any questions, feel free to ask!
All in all, we had an amazing trip—so much variety, great encounters, and the magic of safaris!
Hi everyone!
My trip to South Africa is getting closer (still 2 months to go 😏), and I’m diving back into my itinerary: from Saturday to the following Sunday around Cape Town, then from Sunday to the following Saturday in Kruger.
For Cape Town, the plan was to avoid changing accommodation every day (we’ll do enough of that in the second part) but still see different landscapes. I know, I’m missing out on a lot, but you’ve got to make choices, and after all this time, I know what I like—and especially what I don’t (or like less) 😉
Here’s the breakdown:
Arrival Saturday at 11 AM: heading to Hermanus (2 nights). The idea is to stroll along the cliff path in the afternoon, and possibly drive to the Klein River Lagoon. Sunday: Stony Point, then depending on time and weather, a hike in Kogelberg Nature Reserve or Fernkloof Nature Reserve (which seems less scenic but has shorter walks). Monday: drive to Franschhoek (1 night). If everything lines up, a hike in Jonkershoek NR and a visit to a wine estate. Tuesday: drive to Mountceder Lodge in the Cederberg (2 nights). I’m thinking of visiting the Stadsaal Caves and the elephant paintings, and maybe one of the hikes listed on the lodge’s site or Maltese Cross. Thursday: heading to Hout Bay for 3 nights. In no particular order: a classic day trip around the peninsula, half a day at Kirstenbosch Gardens, and half a day at Lion’s Head. Sunday: flight to Johannesburg.
My questions are mostly about (short) hikes: Has anyone here done hikes in Kogelberg, Fernkloof, or Jonkershoek? At Mountceder Lodge (Michel, if you’re reading this… 😉), has anyone tried the hikes (guided or not) offered by the lodge? There’s still half a day to fill when we’re in Hout Bay—any ideas (not necessarily hikes)?
Lastly, regarding safety: the French foreign ministry (always alarmist, but still) recommends hiking in groups. Is it really risky in broad daylight? (I’m not sure a group of two women counts as a "group"…)
Thanks in advance for your answers, ideas, and comments!
My trip to South Africa is getting closer (still 2 months to go 😏), and I’m diving back into my itinerary: from Saturday to the following Sunday around Cape Town, then from Sunday to the following Saturday in Kruger.
For Cape Town, the plan was to avoid changing accommodation every day (we’ll do enough of that in the second part) but still see different landscapes. I know, I’m missing out on a lot, but you’ve got to make choices, and after all this time, I know what I like—and especially what I don’t (or like less) 😉
Here’s the breakdown:
Arrival Saturday at 11 AM: heading to Hermanus (2 nights). The idea is to stroll along the cliff path in the afternoon, and possibly drive to the Klein River Lagoon. Sunday: Stony Point, then depending on time and weather, a hike in Kogelberg Nature Reserve or Fernkloof Nature Reserve (which seems less scenic but has shorter walks). Monday: drive to Franschhoek (1 night). If everything lines up, a hike in Jonkershoek NR and a visit to a wine estate. Tuesday: drive to Mountceder Lodge in the Cederberg (2 nights). I’m thinking of visiting the Stadsaal Caves and the elephant paintings, and maybe one of the hikes listed on the lodge’s site or Maltese Cross. Thursday: heading to Hout Bay for 3 nights. In no particular order: a classic day trip around the peninsula, half a day at Kirstenbosch Gardens, and half a day at Lion’s Head. Sunday: flight to Johannesburg.
My questions are mostly about (short) hikes: Has anyone here done hikes in Kogelberg, Fernkloof, or Jonkershoek? At Mountceder Lodge (Michel, if you’re reading this… 😉), has anyone tried the hikes (guided or not) offered by the lodge? There’s still half a day to fill when we’re in Hout Bay—any ideas (not necessarily hikes)?
Lastly, regarding safety: the French foreign ministry (always alarmist, but still) recommends hiking in groups. Is it really risky in broad daylight? (I’m not sure a group of two women counts as a "group"…)
Thanks in advance for your answers, ideas, and comments!
hi
Question: we’re doing a 3-week trip in Namibia, including 5 days for Victoria Falls. I’ve booked one night in Brandberg, and then I have some questions. I was thinking of spending 2 nights in Palmwag, then heading to Etosha for one night in Okaukuejo and then 2 nights in Halali. Alternatively, from Brandberg, I could book a night near Galton Gate and then enter Etosha. I’m not really sure about the distances, especially with a 4x4. Same for the return trip: Halali to Windhoek seems long. Maybe it’d be smart to break it up on the way back? (We have 2 days to get back if needed.) If so, where?
Thanks for your tips and feedback!
Rachel
Question: we’re doing a 3-week trip in Namibia, including 5 days for Victoria Falls. I’ve booked one night in Brandberg, and then I have some questions. I was thinking of spending 2 nights in Palmwag, then heading to Etosha for one night in Okaukuejo and then 2 nights in Halali. Alternatively, from Brandberg, I could book a night near Galton Gate and then enter Etosha. I’m not really sure about the distances, especially with a 4x4. Same for the return trip: Halali to Windhoek seems long. Maybe it’d be smart to break it up on the way back? (We have 2 days to get back if needed.) If so, where?
Thanks for your tips and feedback!
Rachel
Jambo! I organized my trip through this kind of group, so I thought I’d share my experience here. We traveled as a group of four, including two kids aged 9 and 11. After requesting around twenty quotes, I decided to book the safari portion with MAKING MEMORIES IN AFRICA. Ally responded quickly and listened to all my requests—unlike other agencies—such as having a French-speaking guide, the order of park visits (Tarangire, Manyara, Serengeti, then Ngorongoro), and a mix of budget hotels and camping to keep costs down. There were still four agencies in the running, and price was the deciding factor. Even though they were the cheapest, I felt better taken care of than with others. For example, all meals were prepared by a Maasai chef, Louis, who accompanied us throughout the trip, while some others ate meals out of cardboard boxes. Samuel, our guide, explained so many things and answered all our questions. José drove us safely the whole way. Everything was done with great cheer!
At the end of the stay, Ally came to meet us and gave us t-shirts with the agency’s logo—we loved that they took the time to hear our feedback in person. In short, I highly recommend them +++, especially since it’s a local agency that also supports a charity for women and children.
For Zanzibar, I organized everything myself. I hesitated for a long time but eventually booked all four nights at the same place. We don’t like crowds, so I initially considered Jambiani but ended up choosing EVERGREEN BUNGALOWS in Bwejuu. We took their first airport-to-hotel transfer since we arrived at night, and it felt safer. Great value for money, in our opinion. Just be aware that it’s quite isolated—perfect for relaxing and going on excursions. There were very few beach vendors, unlike what I’d read about Zanzibar. We lived with our feet in the sand from morning to night, with a small basin of water outside our room to rinse off. Such a lovely spot!
I had asked for some excursion prices before leaving but ended up booking on-site. Not at our hotel, but at a nearby restaurant that was cheaper. After some thought, since we were based in Bwejuu, I wanted to do Blue Lagoon and Pungume (both departing from the south of Zanzibar).
Blue Lagoon: About 3 hours total, with snorkeling on a small reef full of fish (coral wasn’t great) and a stop at a spot with tons of starfish, plus local snacks, fruit, and drinks.
Pungume: An amazing day with a 50% chance of seeing dolphins (we missed them), a visit to the mangroves, then snorkeling at a spot with some nice coral and, of course, fish. We ended with a fantastic grill (tuna, shrimp, squid, lobster, and fries) on a sandbank in the shade.
Finally, before heading to Stone Town, we visited Paje Cave, which is much less known than Maalum. It’s smaller, but we saw bats, went for a swim, and fed the chickens and rabbits (great for the kids). To finish, we explored Stone Town on our own and had dinner at Forodhani Market.
For flights, we flew with Turkish Airlines from Barcelona to Kilimanjaro and back from Zanzibar—no issues there. However, I don’t recommend the Kilimanjaro-Zanzibar leg with Precision Air. Our luggage didn’t arrive, and according to the hotel, this happens often. We only got it back a day and a half later.
At the end of the stay, Ally came to meet us and gave us t-shirts with the agency’s logo—we loved that they took the time to hear our feedback in person. In short, I highly recommend them +++, especially since it’s a local agency that also supports a charity for women and children.
For Zanzibar, I organized everything myself. I hesitated for a long time but eventually booked all four nights at the same place. We don’t like crowds, so I initially considered Jambiani but ended up choosing EVERGREEN BUNGALOWS in Bwejuu. We took their first airport-to-hotel transfer since we arrived at night, and it felt safer. Great value for money, in our opinion. Just be aware that it’s quite isolated—perfect for relaxing and going on excursions. There were very few beach vendors, unlike what I’d read about Zanzibar. We lived with our feet in the sand from morning to night, with a small basin of water outside our room to rinse off. Such a lovely spot!
I had asked for some excursion prices before leaving but ended up booking on-site. Not at our hotel, but at a nearby restaurant that was cheaper. After some thought, since we were based in Bwejuu, I wanted to do Blue Lagoon and Pungume (both departing from the south of Zanzibar).
Blue Lagoon: About 3 hours total, with snorkeling on a small reef full of fish (coral wasn’t great) and a stop at a spot with tons of starfish, plus local snacks, fruit, and drinks.
Pungume: An amazing day with a 50% chance of seeing dolphins (we missed them), a visit to the mangroves, then snorkeling at a spot with some nice coral and, of course, fish. We ended with a fantastic grill (tuna, shrimp, squid, lobster, and fries) on a sandbank in the shade.
Finally, before heading to Stone Town, we visited Paje Cave, which is much less known than Maalum. It’s smaller, but we saw bats, went for a swim, and fed the chickens and rabbits (great for the kids). To finish, we explored Stone Town on our own and had dinner at Forodhani Market.
For flights, we flew with Turkish Airlines from Barcelona to Kilimanjaro and back from Zanzibar—no issues there. However, I don’t recommend the Kilimanjaro-Zanzibar leg with Precision Air. Our luggage didn’t arrive, and according to the hotel, this happens often. We only got it back a day and a half later.
Hi there,
Hope the pros are on the lookout!
March or May 2027. Around 15 days in the Western Cape, then 15 days in the southern KNP.
Arrival either in PE or George. The pros know I’m somewhat familiar with the area... that I don’t camp... that my accommodations can be simple and remote, self-catering but with basic comforts... that I’m looking for spots that are a bit off the beaten path... in a relaxed mode... From George: Late arrival... need some rest... Herolds Bay from George to the N1. Tsitsikamma is catching my eye (Storms River)... with or without a stop in Knysna. Question: What’s the current condition of the pass from Knysna to Uniondale? R339. And while I’m at it, the condition of the R340. Tsitsikamma, Knysna, and my questions still apply if arriving in PE.
Is the Swartberg still closed? Any recommendations for accommodation in Prince Albert? If I cross the escarpment, I’ll continue via Anysberg NR, Touwsrivier... any thoughts? From there... Tankwa Karoo or Mount Cedar (or both). Then heading back down to the coast... the highlands of Hermanus or Kogelberg NR (any opinions on the latter?).
Or,
A more classic route along the coast...
If I arrive (fairly late) in PE... any ideas for accommodation in that little area? Given that Nyathi Camp is winking at me... (For context... a while back, I stayed at Riverbend (same Addo sector, private concession)... and I visited the ruins of that abandoned lodge at the time, which has clearly been renovated since... located in a very quiet part of Addo...). Any feedback from the pros? Well, that’s about it... I’m open to any other tips or advice!
March or May 2027. Around 15 days in the Western Cape, then 15 days in the southern KNP.
Arrival either in PE or George. The pros know I’m somewhat familiar with the area... that I don’t camp... that my accommodations can be simple and remote, self-catering but with basic comforts... that I’m looking for spots that are a bit off the beaten path... in a relaxed mode... From George: Late arrival... need some rest... Herolds Bay from George to the N1. Tsitsikamma is catching my eye (Storms River)... with or without a stop in Knysna. Question: What’s the current condition of the pass from Knysna to Uniondale? R339. And while I’m at it, the condition of the R340. Tsitsikamma, Knysna, and my questions still apply if arriving in PE.
Is the Swartberg still closed? Any recommendations for accommodation in Prince Albert? If I cross the escarpment, I’ll continue via Anysberg NR, Touwsrivier... any thoughts? From there... Tankwa Karoo or Mount Cedar (or both). Then heading back down to the coast... the highlands of Hermanus or Kogelberg NR (any opinions on the latter?).
Or,
A more classic route along the coast...
If I arrive (fairly late) in PE... any ideas for accommodation in that little area? Given that Nyathi Camp is winking at me... (For context... a while back, I stayed at Riverbend (same Addo sector, private concession)... and I visited the ruins of that abandoned lodge at the time, which has clearly been renovated since... located in a very quiet part of Addo...). Any feedback from the pros? Well, that’s about it... I’m open to any other tips or advice!
Hi there,
I’m reaching out with a question about which park to choose for a 3-day safari in Kenya.
After 20 days in Uganda, I’m meeting up with my dad for a 3-day safari (that works for him). We’ll be meeting in Nairobi and have a full day to travel to a park (preferably the farthest from Nairobi to avoid crowds?) and spend 4 nights there before heading back to the capital for our flight to France.
I’d love to hear your recommendations since I’ve read so many great tips on this forum.
Thanks,
David
I’m reaching out with a question about which park to choose for a 3-day safari in Kenya.
After 20 days in Uganda, I’m meeting up with my dad for a 3-day safari (that works for him). We’ll be meeting in Nairobi and have a full day to travel to a park (preferably the farthest from Nairobi to avoid crowds?) and spend 4 nights there before heading back to the capital for our flight to France.
I’d love to hear your recommendations since I’ve read so many great tips on this forum.
Thanks,
David
Hi,
At the end of July, we’re heading to Namibia with a group of five for a three-week road trip and visit to the national parks. We’ve read conflicting info about buying entry tickets—either online (where?) or at the gate when we arrive?
Thanks in advance for your tips!!
Have a great day
At the end of July, we’re heading to Namibia with a group of five for a three-week road trip and visit to the national parks. We’ve read conflicting info about buying entry tickets—either online (where?) or at the gate when we arrive?
Thanks in advance for your tips!!
Have a great day
Hi there,
I’d love to hear your thoughts on the agencies you used to plan your trip to Uganda.
There’s the whole issue of gorilla permits, which need to be booked in advance and involve a significant financial commitment. That’s where I’m at with my trip planning. Between checking lutb.go.ug/ and reading online reviews, it’s hard to move forward with confidence.
I contacted the French Embassy, but they don’t provide any recommendations. I almost booked with an agency that had a really bad review from February specifically about the permit process.
How did you go about choosing your agency? Given the large sum involved, I’m this close to booking through a travel agency in France for this part.
From what I understand, no matter which agency books the permit, you’re ultimately guided by professionals trained for gorilla trekking based on the permit itself? I’m assuming that’s how it works.
Thanks for your feedback, and I’m really happy to see the forum’s new energy—it’s been super helpful to me in the past.
I’d love to hear your thoughts on the agencies you used to plan your trip to Uganda.
There’s the whole issue of gorilla permits, which need to be booked in advance and involve a significant financial commitment. That’s where I’m at with my trip planning. Between checking lutb.go.ug/ and reading online reviews, it’s hard to move forward with confidence.
I contacted the French Embassy, but they don’t provide any recommendations. I almost booked with an agency that had a really bad review from February specifically about the permit process.
How did you go about choosing your agency? Given the large sum involved, I’m this close to booking through a travel agency in France for this part.
From what I understand, no matter which agency books the permit, you’re ultimately guided by professionals trained for gorilla trekking based on the permit itself? I’m assuming that’s how it works.
Thanks for your feedback, and I’m really happy to see the forum’s new energy—it’s been super helpful to me in the past.
Hi everyone!
We’re heading to Uganda next summer for three weeks with our two kids, who’ll be 7 and 9 years old. We’ve been to Southern Africa before but not East Africa, and after a trip to South Africa two years ago, the kids wanted to return to Africa, while we wanted to explore a new region while staying independent... Uganda’s been catching our eye for a while, and with Rwandair offering relatively attractive prices, we’re going for it!
We’ll be traveling in a 4x4 (self-drive) with roof tents. I don’t have any 4x4 driving experience, so it’ll be a first for me, but we’ll manage 😉 No great apes for us—kids need to be 15, and we don’t want to do that experience without them.
I don’t usually ask the forum much for trip planning, but this time, I’d love your thoughts and advice!
First question: Karamoja or not? At first glance, if we want to add it to a "classic" loop in the southwest, it doesn’t seem realistic—too packed, too much driving. We could consider doing the full loop via Kidepo and then heading down to Murchison, but I’m worried the trip might feel less varied and less kid-friendly. That said, the region looks stunning, and I’m struggling to accept not going at all... What do you think?
If we skip Karamoja, we’d do a loop: Murchison/Fort Portal/QENP/Bunyonyi/Mburo, which seems pretty comprehensive and would let us take our time, which is nice. A few random questions: - How much time should we plan for the Fort Portal area? I was thinking at least 3 days to visit Bigodi Swamp, walk around the craters, and maybe do a community walk (any thoughts on that?). - Between Murchison Falls and the Fort Portal area, is it worth breaking up the drive? I spotted Lake Albert Safari Lodge on the shores of Lake Albert—it’s not too expensive and looks nice. - I’d love to do some easy walks/hikes at the foot of the Rwenzori Mountains, ideally without a guide, but it doesn’t seem straightforward. Do you know if it’s possible to do nice walks independently? I’ve read about hikes in the hills near Kilembe but nothing very specific. Maybe staying somewhere at the foot of the mountains, like Ruboni Community Camp, would allow that. - Lake Mutanda looks really cool, and so does Lake Bunyonyi... Ideally, I’d like to see both, but won’t that feel repetitive? Is Lake Mutanda worth the detour?
Last practical question, since we don’t have experience with this: for the car with kids, would you recommend two tents (a bit more space) or a four-person tent?
I’ll stop here—already a lot of questions...
Thanks in advance for your feedback, and looking forward to exchanging ideas! Gabriel
We’re heading to Uganda next summer for three weeks with our two kids, who’ll be 7 and 9 years old. We’ve been to Southern Africa before but not East Africa, and after a trip to South Africa two years ago, the kids wanted to return to Africa, while we wanted to explore a new region while staying independent... Uganda’s been catching our eye for a while, and with Rwandair offering relatively attractive prices, we’re going for it!
We’ll be traveling in a 4x4 (self-drive) with roof tents. I don’t have any 4x4 driving experience, so it’ll be a first for me, but we’ll manage 😉 No great apes for us—kids need to be 15, and we don’t want to do that experience without them.
I don’t usually ask the forum much for trip planning, but this time, I’d love your thoughts and advice!
First question: Karamoja or not? At first glance, if we want to add it to a "classic" loop in the southwest, it doesn’t seem realistic—too packed, too much driving. We could consider doing the full loop via Kidepo and then heading down to Murchison, but I’m worried the trip might feel less varied and less kid-friendly. That said, the region looks stunning, and I’m struggling to accept not going at all... What do you think?
If we skip Karamoja, we’d do a loop: Murchison/Fort Portal/QENP/Bunyonyi/Mburo, which seems pretty comprehensive and would let us take our time, which is nice. A few random questions: - How much time should we plan for the Fort Portal area? I was thinking at least 3 days to visit Bigodi Swamp, walk around the craters, and maybe do a community walk (any thoughts on that?). - Between Murchison Falls and the Fort Portal area, is it worth breaking up the drive? I spotted Lake Albert Safari Lodge on the shores of Lake Albert—it’s not too expensive and looks nice. - I’d love to do some easy walks/hikes at the foot of the Rwenzori Mountains, ideally without a guide, but it doesn’t seem straightforward. Do you know if it’s possible to do nice walks independently? I’ve read about hikes in the hills near Kilembe but nothing very specific. Maybe staying somewhere at the foot of the mountains, like Ruboni Community Camp, would allow that. - Lake Mutanda looks really cool, and so does Lake Bunyonyi... Ideally, I’d like to see both, but won’t that feel repetitive? Is Lake Mutanda worth the detour?
Last practical question, since we don’t have experience with this: for the car with kids, would you recommend two tents (a bit more space) or a four-person tent?
I’ll stop here—already a lot of questions...
Thanks in advance for your feedback, and looking forward to exchanging ideas! Gabriel
Hi everyone!
I’m looking for a French-speaking local guide for July 2019. Would anyone have a contact there? No tour operators, please.
Thanks in advance!
I’m looking for a French-speaking local guide for July 2019. Would anyone have a contact there? No tour operators, please.
Thanks in advance!
Hello,
We’re planning our second trip to South Africa in July 2026. In 2023, we did a loop from Joburg, Golden Gate, Drakensberg, Hluhluwe, St Lucia, Eswatini, Kruger, Blyde River Canyon, and back to Joburg. This time, we’d like to go to Cape Town and do a road trip to Port Elizabeth, then fly back to Joburg to return to Kruger. At this stage of my planning, here’s what it could look like:
D1 to D4: Cape Town and Cape of Good Hope (Table Mountain, Lion’s Head, Waterfront, Bo-Kaap, Boulders, Cape Point, Chapman’s Peak Drive). I’ve spotted a few places to stay between Camps Bay and Hout Bay (3 nights). D5 and D6: Either Karoo NP or Hermanus and De Hoop. Any opinions to tip the scales? I’ll admit I’m already leaning toward Karoo (the "wild" vibe of the landscapes and wildlife encounters appeal to me much more than the seaside, which feels less exotic). If we go for Karoo, where should we stay? Inside the park or in Beaufort West? I’ve seen good reviews for Ko-ka Tsara Bush Camp, but maybe it’s better to stay in the Sanparks cottages to make the most of the park? (2 nights) Option B is to do Stellenbosch (though vineyards aren’t great in winter) and/or the Whale Route—Betty’s Bay, Hermanus, De Hoop (2 nights near Gansbaai). D7 and D8: Klein Karoo, Oudtshoorn. Staying at De Cango Guest Farm (2 nights). D9 and D10: Knysna, Robberg Nature Reserve, Tsitsikamma (2 nights in Plettenberg Bay and 1 night in PE). D11: Flight from Port Elizabeth to Joburg at 7 AM and drive to Marloth Park.
For Kruger, I’ve booked 2 nights in Marloth Park, 1 night in Skukuza, 2 nights in Satara, and 1 night in Talamati, which we loved. I’ll book the last night in Graskop later since we want to revisit the Blyde Canyon area.
I’d love all the feedback you can give on my itinerary, especially for days 5 and 6. If you have recommendations for accommodations for 4 people, I’d appreciate those too. Thanks! 🙂
We’re planning our second trip to South Africa in July 2026. In 2023, we did a loop from Joburg, Golden Gate, Drakensberg, Hluhluwe, St Lucia, Eswatini, Kruger, Blyde River Canyon, and back to Joburg. This time, we’d like to go to Cape Town and do a road trip to Port Elizabeth, then fly back to Joburg to return to Kruger. At this stage of my planning, here’s what it could look like:
D1 to D4: Cape Town and Cape of Good Hope (Table Mountain, Lion’s Head, Waterfront, Bo-Kaap, Boulders, Cape Point, Chapman’s Peak Drive). I’ve spotted a few places to stay between Camps Bay and Hout Bay (3 nights). D5 and D6: Either Karoo NP or Hermanus and De Hoop. Any opinions to tip the scales? I’ll admit I’m already leaning toward Karoo (the "wild" vibe of the landscapes and wildlife encounters appeal to me much more than the seaside, which feels less exotic). If we go for Karoo, where should we stay? Inside the park or in Beaufort West? I’ve seen good reviews for Ko-ka Tsara Bush Camp, but maybe it’s better to stay in the Sanparks cottages to make the most of the park? (2 nights) Option B is to do Stellenbosch (though vineyards aren’t great in winter) and/or the Whale Route—Betty’s Bay, Hermanus, De Hoop (2 nights near Gansbaai). D7 and D8: Klein Karoo, Oudtshoorn. Staying at De Cango Guest Farm (2 nights). D9 and D10: Knysna, Robberg Nature Reserve, Tsitsikamma (2 nights in Plettenberg Bay and 1 night in PE). D11: Flight from Port Elizabeth to Joburg at 7 AM and drive to Marloth Park.
For Kruger, I’ve booked 2 nights in Marloth Park, 1 night in Skukuza, 2 nights in Satara, and 1 night in Talamati, which we loved. I’ll book the last night in Graskop later since we want to revisit the Blyde Canyon area.
I’d love all the feedback you can give on my itinerary, especially for days 5 and 6. If you have recommendations for accommodations for 4 people, I’d appreciate those too. Thanks! 🙂
Hi
Any feedback on the agency Mon Guide Zanzibar?
Hi everyone,
We’re a family of four (two daughters aged 18 and 21) and we’re planning a three-week trip to Tanzania. Zanzibar would be our main base, but we’d also like to do a safari on the mainland. Could you share any tips on: - the ideal length for such a safari, the best place to go during this period (and easily accessible by flight from Zanzibar) - your recommendations for the most suitable type of stay for a family like ours - reliable local agencies with reasonable prices that could help us with this plan
Thanks in advance!
Albin
We’re a family of four (two daughters aged 18 and 21) and we’re planning a three-week trip to Tanzania. Zanzibar would be our main base, but we’d also like to do a safari on the mainland. Could you share any tips on: - the ideal length for such a safari, the best place to go during this period (and easily accessible by flight from Zanzibar) - your recommendations for the most suitable type of stay for a family like ours - reliable local agencies with reasonable prices that could help us with this plan
Thanks in advance!
Albin
Hi everyone, I’m here to get some advice on visiting KRUGER Park.
From what I’ve gathered through my reading, I understand there are two ways to visit the park:
- Independently with your own vehicle
=> Do you drive all day?
- By booking with a professional
=> Safari early in the morning and late in the afternoon. But what do you do in between?
When it comes to accommodations, the options are: - Booking in one of the park’s camps, where the lodging is basic but functional - Booking in a private reserve, which is more comfortable but prohibitively expensive - Booking outside the park, which means entering the park every morning. But if you want to stay for 3 days, that doesn’t seem practical to me. Do you have any advice for accommodations?
To be honest, I’m really struggling to understand how it all works... Thanks to everyone for your help. Bidule 27
When it comes to accommodations, the options are: - Booking in one of the park’s camps, where the lodging is basic but functional - Booking in a private reserve, which is more comfortable but prohibitively expensive - Booking outside the park, which means entering the park every morning. But if you want to stay for 3 days, that doesn’t seem practical to me. Do you have any advice for accommodations?
To be honest, I’m really struggling to understand how it all works... Thanks to everyone for your help. Bidule 27
Hey everyone!
Heading to Namibia in a few days and I just read that the entry fees for all parks in Namibia have skyrocketed. Increases between 86 and 100%, and this has been in effect since April 1st (no joke). Have any of you heard about this, and if so, do you know if it’s actually being enforced?
For example, the fee for Etosha has gone from 150 NAD to 280 NAD per day per person.
Thanks in advance!
Namibia raises park fees by 86 to 100 percent
Namibia raises park fees by 86 to 100 percent
Hello,
I’m really interested in traveling to South Africa in September 2020. My question is whether I should go on an organized tour or plan my own itinerary. Organized trips are pretty expensive $$$$, but the security aspect reassures me. I’d love to hear your thoughts on safety in South Africa and whether it’s easy to arrange activities like visiting vineyards, Cape Town, and going on a safari on our own. Which is better in terms of cost—booking an organized trip or doing it ourselves? It’s definitely less exciting to follow a group for 10 days. We’re a couple in our 50s who love nature. 😊🦁
I’m really interested in traveling to South Africa in September 2020. My question is whether I should go on an organized tour or plan my own itinerary. Organized trips are pretty expensive $$$$, but the security aspect reassures me. I’d love to hear your thoughts on safety in South Africa and whether it’s easy to arrange activities like visiting vineyards, Cape Town, and going on a safari on our own. Which is better in terms of cost—booking an organized trip or doing it ourselves? It’s definitely less exciting to follow a group for 10 days. We’re a couple in our 50s who love nature. 😊🦁
Hi everyone,
We’re heading out in April 2027 with our 4x4 to explore part of Southern Africa. Right now we’re researching all these beautiful countries and deciding where to ship our vehicle. We’re from Le Havre—has anyone here already shipped from that port to South Africa or East Africa? As for all these countries, is wild camping allowed, tolerated, easy, or difficult? We’ve already visited a few, but you can read just about anything online, so getting tips from real independent travelers is way better :) We’re all ears for any hacks, experiences, or spots you’d recommend. See you on the road with Doddy
We’re heading out in April 2027 with our 4x4 to explore part of Southern Africa. Right now we’re researching all these beautiful countries and deciding where to ship our vehicle. We’re from Le Havre—has anyone here already shipped from that port to South Africa or East Africa? As for all these countries, is wild camping allowed, tolerated, easy, or difficult? We’ve already visited a few, but you can read just about anything online, so getting tips from real independent travelers is way better :) We’re all ears for any hacks, experiences, or spots you’d recommend. See you on the road with Doddy
Hi,
I’m starting to plan a great trip for the last three weeks of January 2027 (my first time in South Africa).
After spending a few hours (!) browsing this forum, here’s a rough first draft of my itinerary:
D0 Arrival at JNB D1, D2 Blyde River Canyon D3, D4, D5, D6, D7: Kruger D8, D9, D10: St Lucia and surrounding area D11, D12, D13, D14: Drakensberg + Lesotho
D15 A very long driving day to the south (hope the AC doesn’t break down!)
D16, D17, D18, D19 southwest coast (so far I’ve noted Oudtshoorn, Robberg Nature Reserve, Wilderness NP, De Hoop Reserve, and a bit of the wine route) D20, D21 Cape Town (peninsula and a bit of the city) + domestic flight and return flight (departure from JNB at 11 PM)
A few questions before refining this: - Do you see any major issues with this itinerary?
- We don’t have a choice on dates, and personally, I prefer green landscapes to desert ones anyway, but do you really see far fewer animals in January than in the dry season? Five days in Kruger should give us enough time to spot plenty of different animals despite the tall grass, right? As for the heat, we’re from Réunion, so we’re relatively used to it, even though I know it’s not the same type of heat.
- Can I trust the distances and driving times given by Google Maps?
- Picking up the vehicle in Johannesburg and dropping it off in Cape Town: how much might that cost us? I’m thinking it probably won’t be worse (in terms of time or money, since there are five of us—2 adults + 3 kids) than going back to Joburg after Lesotho, taking a flight to Cape Town, and renting another vehicle... but maybe I’m wrong.
- Finally, wouldn’t it be better to focus on just one of the two regions (either the northeast or Cape Town and the south coast)? If it were up to me, I’d stick to the first part and extend a few stops... but not everyone agrees! And we’re thinking that since it’ll be really hot, a second part of the trip that’s a bit """cooler""" would be welcome.
Thanks for your help
D0 Arrival at JNB D1, D2 Blyde River Canyon D3, D4, D5, D6, D7: Kruger D8, D9, D10: St Lucia and surrounding area D11, D12, D13, D14: Drakensberg + Lesotho
D15 A very long driving day to the south (hope the AC doesn’t break down!)
D16, D17, D18, D19 southwest coast (so far I’ve noted Oudtshoorn, Robberg Nature Reserve, Wilderness NP, De Hoop Reserve, and a bit of the wine route) D20, D21 Cape Town (peninsula and a bit of the city) + domestic flight and return flight (departure from JNB at 11 PM)
A few questions before refining this: - Do you see any major issues with this itinerary?
- We don’t have a choice on dates, and personally, I prefer green landscapes to desert ones anyway, but do you really see far fewer animals in January than in the dry season? Five days in Kruger should give us enough time to spot plenty of different animals despite the tall grass, right? As for the heat, we’re from Réunion, so we’re relatively used to it, even though I know it’s not the same type of heat.
- Can I trust the distances and driving times given by Google Maps?
- Picking up the vehicle in Johannesburg and dropping it off in Cape Town: how much might that cost us? I’m thinking it probably won’t be worse (in terms of time or money, since there are five of us—2 adults + 3 kids) than going back to Joburg after Lesotho, taking a flight to Cape Town, and renting another vehicle... but maybe I’m wrong.
- Finally, wouldn’t it be better to focus on just one of the two regions (either the northeast or Cape Town and the south coast)? If it were up to me, I’d stick to the first part and extend a few stops... but not everyone agrees! And we’re thinking that since it’ll be really hot, a second part of the trip that’s a bit """cooler""" would be welcome.
Thanks for your help
Hello everyone,
I imagine many of you have been captivated by the Masai Mara park and/or your safari experience with Tony Crocetta/Melting Pot Safari. Still, I’d like to share my perspective. First, I’m an avid traveler, especially in love with Africa, which my partner and I have explored a bit (Zambia, South Africa, Botswana, Kenya, Zimbabwe, Namibia...). That said, I want to express my deep disappointment with both the Masai Mara and Tony Crocetta’s camp, Melting Pot Safari, where we stayed last year.
First, about the park: it’s stunning, no doubt. But what a highly touristy place! I can’t find the words to describe the horror of being among 30 4x4 vehicles lined up in front of a lioness hunt, let alone encircling her right after her kill while her prey is still alive in her jaws... no respect for wildlife. The same goes for surrounding a young leopard playing with its small prey, a moment when I counted over 50 vehicles, most with their engines running... sickening. I turned away, both my gaze and my camera. What a disaster to see this natural wonder of Africa turned into a tourist hotspot.
Yes, I loved this place on Earth, but no, I won’t "promote" it anywhere or to anyone.
Next, I also wanted to share my dissatisfaction with Tony Crocetta’s famous camp, Melting Pot Safari: where to begin? We booked a private vehicle for four with two friends, and I have no complaints about the vehicle itself (though it obviously came at a cost). The windows and the vehicle weren’t very photo-friendly, but let’s move on. The trip between the sisters’ guesthouse (which was fine) and the camp went smoothly, except we arrived a bit too late. Result: "We’ll leave for the safari an hour later today because the driver has to respect his rest hours." Perfect—with park formalities, we only spent about an hour in the park that evening. The safari got off to a great start... During our 12-day stay, we saw some amazing things. Tony wasn’t at the camp—I don’t know what the atmosphere is like when he’s there, but it was rather cold during our trip. Sylvie, his wife, barely looked at us, never asking how our day, night, or game drive went (I think she spoke to us once during the stay, plus the day we arrived, of course). We felt invisible... (if I were mean, I’d say the money had already been deposited into Melting Pot’s bank account.) The evening meals, if I may say so, were a joke: not enough dessert (aside from fruit, but the few elaborate desserts—like 10 for 18 guests) for everyone, barely enough meat or sides. If you were unlucky like us and ended up with a group of 15 people who decided to skip the starter, you’d better hurry to get your main course, or there might not be any left—and no refills... We always ate our fill, but sometimes we had to serve ourselves in advance. Finally, I want to correct something about the quality of the meals: seriously, this buffet was really mediocre and far from the culinary standards I’d read about in my pre-trip research (see their Facebook page). Anyway, let’s move past the food—after all, the avocados were sublime, and we’re not there primarily to eat.
About the tent: the river views were beautiful, and the beds were very comfortable. No running water, individual showers outside the tent, and dry toilets—but it’s Africa, so we weren’t shocked. However, I’m disappointed that for this "modest" price, I wasn’t warned there’d be no soap (and no, I don’t travel with my own soap—and for the price, a little bar in the tent wouldn’t be a luxury). But let’s move on—the hippo views were fantastic. Oh, and to preserve the Masai Mara’s water (which makes sense) and for hygiene reasons, underwear isn’t washed by the camp staff—fair enough. But then what’s that little sign next to the bed? Oh right, for a hefty sum, underwear suddenly becomes "washable"...
Finally, my biggest gripe is about the essential part: the game drives. In France, they sell you a dream with a "photo safari" (what’s the difference, really? A room with a few more electrical outlets?). They promise guides especially suited for photography (not a given, sorry) and vehicles that can get close to animals and go off-road... but here’s the catch: the guides are bound by park laws and hounded by rangers looking to fine rule-breakers. Result: as soon as a white ranger vehicle is spotted, we have to abandon our spot for a wild chase through the grass. Fun once... The next day, we learned that another group’s guide got caught and had to pay $100 for breaking the rules—a sum he casually asked the travelers in his vehicle to cover... because of course, Melting Pot lures tourists with dreams, the poor rangers try to get close, all while breaking park laws... and they break those laws for Crocetta’s company, which, of course, won’t dip into its profits to pay the fines. Basically, it’s "keep the clients happy, but don’t get fined—or the fines are on you or you’ll have to ask the clients directly." Nice boss! Anyway, there were long discussions about this last year, especially among the guests in the fined vehicle. My partner and I found these practices unacceptable, and we were deeply disappointed by this attitude.
I know many people adore this park and/or this company—maybe you were luckier... or maybe you’re less demanding than we are when it comes to respecting rules, nature, and clients. But after traveling through much of southern Africa, I can tell you we personally came back frustrated from this experience and aren’t eager to return... You’ve been warned.
I imagine many of you have been captivated by the Masai Mara park and/or your safari experience with Tony Crocetta/Melting Pot Safari. Still, I’d like to share my perspective. First, I’m an avid traveler, especially in love with Africa, which my partner and I have explored a bit (Zambia, South Africa, Botswana, Kenya, Zimbabwe, Namibia...). That said, I want to express my deep disappointment with both the Masai Mara and Tony Crocetta’s camp, Melting Pot Safari, where we stayed last year.
First, about the park: it’s stunning, no doubt. But what a highly touristy place! I can’t find the words to describe the horror of being among 30 4x4 vehicles lined up in front of a lioness hunt, let alone encircling her right after her kill while her prey is still alive in her jaws... no respect for wildlife. The same goes for surrounding a young leopard playing with its small prey, a moment when I counted over 50 vehicles, most with their engines running... sickening. I turned away, both my gaze and my camera. What a disaster to see this natural wonder of Africa turned into a tourist hotspot.
Yes, I loved this place on Earth, but no, I won’t "promote" it anywhere or to anyone.
Next, I also wanted to share my dissatisfaction with Tony Crocetta’s famous camp, Melting Pot Safari: where to begin? We booked a private vehicle for four with two friends, and I have no complaints about the vehicle itself (though it obviously came at a cost). The windows and the vehicle weren’t very photo-friendly, but let’s move on. The trip between the sisters’ guesthouse (which was fine) and the camp went smoothly, except we arrived a bit too late. Result: "We’ll leave for the safari an hour later today because the driver has to respect his rest hours." Perfect—with park formalities, we only spent about an hour in the park that evening. The safari got off to a great start... During our 12-day stay, we saw some amazing things. Tony wasn’t at the camp—I don’t know what the atmosphere is like when he’s there, but it was rather cold during our trip. Sylvie, his wife, barely looked at us, never asking how our day, night, or game drive went (I think she spoke to us once during the stay, plus the day we arrived, of course). We felt invisible... (if I were mean, I’d say the money had already been deposited into Melting Pot’s bank account.) The evening meals, if I may say so, were a joke: not enough dessert (aside from fruit, but the few elaborate desserts—like 10 for 18 guests) for everyone, barely enough meat or sides. If you were unlucky like us and ended up with a group of 15 people who decided to skip the starter, you’d better hurry to get your main course, or there might not be any left—and no refills... We always ate our fill, but sometimes we had to serve ourselves in advance. Finally, I want to correct something about the quality of the meals: seriously, this buffet was really mediocre and far from the culinary standards I’d read about in my pre-trip research (see their Facebook page). Anyway, let’s move past the food—after all, the avocados were sublime, and we’re not there primarily to eat.
About the tent: the river views were beautiful, and the beds were very comfortable. No running water, individual showers outside the tent, and dry toilets—but it’s Africa, so we weren’t shocked. However, I’m disappointed that for this "modest" price, I wasn’t warned there’d be no soap (and no, I don’t travel with my own soap—and for the price, a little bar in the tent wouldn’t be a luxury). But let’s move on—the hippo views were fantastic. Oh, and to preserve the Masai Mara’s water (which makes sense) and for hygiene reasons, underwear isn’t washed by the camp staff—fair enough. But then what’s that little sign next to the bed? Oh right, for a hefty sum, underwear suddenly becomes "washable"...
Finally, my biggest gripe is about the essential part: the game drives. In France, they sell you a dream with a "photo safari" (what’s the difference, really? A room with a few more electrical outlets?). They promise guides especially suited for photography (not a given, sorry) and vehicles that can get close to animals and go off-road... but here’s the catch: the guides are bound by park laws and hounded by rangers looking to fine rule-breakers. Result: as soon as a white ranger vehicle is spotted, we have to abandon our spot for a wild chase through the grass. Fun once... The next day, we learned that another group’s guide got caught and had to pay $100 for breaking the rules—a sum he casually asked the travelers in his vehicle to cover... because of course, Melting Pot lures tourists with dreams, the poor rangers try to get close, all while breaking park laws... and they break those laws for Crocetta’s company, which, of course, won’t dip into its profits to pay the fines. Basically, it’s "keep the clients happy, but don’t get fined—or the fines are on you or you’ll have to ask the clients directly." Nice boss! Anyway, there were long discussions about this last year, especially among the guests in the fined vehicle. My partner and I found these practices unacceptable, and we were deeply disappointed by this attitude.
I know many people adore this park and/or this company—maybe you were luckier... or maybe you’re less demanding than we are when it comes to respecting rules, nature, and clients. But after traveling through much of southern Africa, I can tell you we personally came back frustrated from this experience and aren’t eager to return... You’ve been warned.
Hi there,
Here’s my feedback after a recent trip to Ethiopia, organized with a local guide.
Despite a signed quote, months of prep exchanges (over eight months!), and phone calls right up to departure day, the guide didn’t honor the commitments we’d agreed on.
Haile Haftu FANUAILE, manager of the agency www.charmethiopiantours.com—who we’d organized everything with—didn’t meet us as promised when we arrived in Addis Ababa. Without any warning, he sent a different guide to accompany us for the entire trip (with a flimsy excuse).
Several parts of the signed quote weren’t respected:
– Services included in the quote but not provided on-site (meals, water), – Hotels we’d chosen, booked, and paid for were swapped for lower-category places, – Visits were canceled because the timing wasn’t calculated properly, – One stop on the itinerary was dropped without any reason or explanation.
We’d paid a deposit for domestic flights, with a promise to refund any overpayment. A month after returning, 150 € per person (there were three of us) still hasn’t been refunded.
I’m sharing this to warn fellow travelers about the importance of solid guarantees to ensure contracts are actually honored. Double-check everything before committing!
Wishing everyone safe and smooth travel prep—Ethiopia is an incredible country!
--- Hello,
Feedback following a recent trip to Ethiopia, organized with a local guide.
Despite a signed quote, numerous preparatory exchanges over eight months, and phone calls right up until the day of departure, the guide did not fulfill his commitments. Haile Haftu FANUAILE, manager of the agency www.charmethiopiantours.com with whom we had organized everything, did not meet us as agreed upon our arrival in Addis Ababa; without warning us, he sent another guide in his place to accompany us throughout the trip (with a bogus excuse).
Several points in the signed quote were not honored: – services included in the quote but not provided on site (meals, water), – hotels chosen, booked, and paid for, replaced by lower-category establishments, – visits canceled due to lack of time, which had not been calculated correctly, – one stop on the itinerary canceled without reason or explanation.
A deposit had been paid for the booking of domestic flights, with a commitment to refund the overpayment. To date, one month after our return, 150 € per person (there were three of us) has still not been refunded.
This testimony is intended to alert travelers to the importance of solid guarantees for contracts that are actually honored, so that everyone can be extra vigilant before committing.
Good luck with your travel preparations, everyone. Ethiopia is an extraordinary country!
Here’s my feedback after a recent trip to Ethiopia, organized with a local guide.
Despite a signed quote, months of prep exchanges (over eight months!), and phone calls right up to departure day, the guide didn’t honor the commitments we’d agreed on.
Haile Haftu FANUAILE, manager of the agency www.charmethiopiantours.com—who we’d organized everything with—didn’t meet us as promised when we arrived in Addis Ababa. Without any warning, he sent a different guide to accompany us for the entire trip (with a flimsy excuse).
Several parts of the signed quote weren’t respected:
– Services included in the quote but not provided on-site (meals, water), – Hotels we’d chosen, booked, and paid for were swapped for lower-category places, – Visits were canceled because the timing wasn’t calculated properly, – One stop on the itinerary was dropped without any reason or explanation.
We’d paid a deposit for domestic flights, with a promise to refund any overpayment. A month after returning, 150 € per person (there were three of us) still hasn’t been refunded.
I’m sharing this to warn fellow travelers about the importance of solid guarantees to ensure contracts are actually honored. Double-check everything before committing!
Wishing everyone safe and smooth travel prep—Ethiopia is an incredible country!
--- Hello,
Feedback following a recent trip to Ethiopia, organized with a local guide.
Despite a signed quote, numerous preparatory exchanges over eight months, and phone calls right up until the day of departure, the guide did not fulfill his commitments. Haile Haftu FANUAILE, manager of the agency www.charmethiopiantours.com with whom we had organized everything, did not meet us as agreed upon our arrival in Addis Ababa; without warning us, he sent another guide in his place to accompany us throughout the trip (with a bogus excuse).
Several points in the signed quote were not honored: – services included in the quote but not provided on site (meals, water), – hotels chosen, booked, and paid for, replaced by lower-category establishments, – visits canceled due to lack of time, which had not been calculated correctly, – one stop on the itinerary canceled without reason or explanation.
A deposit had been paid for the booking of domestic flights, with a commitment to refund the overpayment. To date, one month after our return, 150 € per person (there were three of us) has still not been refunded.
This testimony is intended to alert travelers to the importance of solid guarantees for contracts that are actually honored, so that everyone can be extra vigilant before committing.
Good luck with your travel preparations, everyone. Ethiopia is an extraordinary country!
Hello,
With so many agencies out there, we're feeling a bit lost. Could you please share your experience—like recommending your agency if you were happy with them—and tell us why, and if possible, what budget we should expect? Feel free to send it in a private message :)
We’re just the two of us, and ideally, we’d like to go in a 4x4 alone or with another couple, or in a very small group.
Thanks so much in advance!
We’re just the two of us, and ideally, we’d like to go in a 4x4 alone or with another couple, or in a very small group.
Thanks so much in advance!
Hi there,
I’ve reached out to a few agencies for a week-long family safari next summer before heading to Zanzibar.
So far, the itinerary looks like this: Day 1: Late arrival at JRO and overnight in Arusha Day 2: Drive to Tarangire, park visit, and overnight in Tarangire Day 3: Tarangire, drive to and overnight in Karatu Day 4: Ngorongoro and overnight in Ngorongoro Day 5: Drive to Serengeti and safari in Seronera Day 6: Serengeti and overnight near Lobo Day 7: Serengeti and overnight in Seronera Day 8: Flight from Seronera to Zanzibar
On paper, it covers "everything," but maybe there’s a bit too much time lost on the road... Any alternatives?
To simplify (and cut costs), I was thinking: Day 1: Late arrival at JRO and overnight in Arusha Day 2: Arusha National Park with a walking safari and meeting the Maasai (?) Day 3: Drive to Tarangire, park visit, and overnight in Tarangire Day 4: Full day in Tarangire Day 5: Tarangire, drive to and overnight in Karatu Day 6: Ngorongoro and overnight in Ngorongoro Day 7: Morning in Manyara or Natron and drive to JRO Day 8: Flight to Zanzibar
Your thoughts and recommendations are welcome... Thanks
So far, the itinerary looks like this: Day 1: Late arrival at JRO and overnight in Arusha Day 2: Drive to Tarangire, park visit, and overnight in Tarangire Day 3: Tarangire, drive to and overnight in Karatu Day 4: Ngorongoro and overnight in Ngorongoro Day 5: Drive to Serengeti and safari in Seronera Day 6: Serengeti and overnight near Lobo Day 7: Serengeti and overnight in Seronera Day 8: Flight from Seronera to Zanzibar
On paper, it covers "everything," but maybe there’s a bit too much time lost on the road... Any alternatives?
To simplify (and cut costs), I was thinking: Day 1: Late arrival at JRO and overnight in Arusha Day 2: Arusha National Park with a walking safari and meeting the Maasai (?) Day 3: Drive to Tarangire, park visit, and overnight in Tarangire Day 4: Full day in Tarangire Day 5: Tarangire, drive to and overnight in Karatu Day 6: Ngorongoro and overnight in Ngorongoro Day 7: Morning in Manyara or Natron and drive to JRO Day 8: Flight to Zanzibar
Your thoughts and recommendations are welcome... Thanks
Hi everyone,
We have the opportunity to spend about ten days somewhere for Christmas, and I’m really tempted by Zanzibar. I’ve been dreaming for a long time about the Spice Island, Stone Town, diving...
Which hotels could you recommend? Not a big "resort"—we’re more into "boutique hotels" or even an Airbnb house. Somewhere quiet (we’re not party animals).
I’m thinking of staying the first few nights in Stone Town and then moving to a beach, preferably one where we can swim regardless of the tides, without ending up in seaweed and mud at low tide.
I’m a bit lost with all the beaches because apparently, the north is very crowded, the south is very windy, and the east has some good and some not-so-good spots, with big tides or not... HELP! 🤪
I’d like to limit myself to a maximum of 2 different places to stay over the 10 days.
Thanks in advance! 😉
We have the opportunity to spend about ten days somewhere for Christmas, and I’m really tempted by Zanzibar. I’ve been dreaming for a long time about the Spice Island, Stone Town, diving...
Which hotels could you recommend? Not a big "resort"—we’re more into "boutique hotels" or even an Airbnb house. Somewhere quiet (we’re not party animals).
I’m thinking of staying the first few nights in Stone Town and then moving to a beach, preferably one where we can swim regardless of the tides, without ending up in seaweed and mud at low tide.
I’m a bit lost with all the beaches because apparently, the north is very crowded, the south is very windy, and the east has some good and some not-so-good spots, with big tides or not... HELP! 🤪
I’d like to limit myself to a maximum of 2 different places to stay over the 10 days.
Thanks in advance! 😉
hi there
I’m reaching out because I don’t understand how Volcanoes National Park works. I looked at booking for the gorillas, but there’s just the price listed, and the same goes for the Diane Fossey tomb.
So I contacted a hotel in Kinigi, and they told me that for the gorillas, you need a car to get to the park headquarters, and then once you know your group, you need to get from the headquarters to the trekking start point?? Do you confirm this? Is that really how it works? They say the hotel has a driver and it would cost 100 DOLLARS!! I just found out that on top of the permit, there are other fees??? Uhh… Are there other options, knowing I don’t want to rent a 4x4 since I’m traveling alone?
And if I don’t get the gorilla permit but just want to visit the Diane Fossey tomb, is it the same issue? From Kinigi, do you need a 4x4? How far is the tomb from the headquarters? Is it a hike you can do alone OR DO YOU NEED A GUIDE, ON FOOT? By car?? If someone could explain everything to me… and is the DF Foundation different??
If I decide to go through an agency, is it possible in Musanze (which would save me trips) or is it mandatory to go through Kigali? Thanks so much for your help… Best regards
I’m reaching out because I don’t understand how Volcanoes National Park works. I looked at booking for the gorillas, but there’s just the price listed, and the same goes for the Diane Fossey tomb.
So I contacted a hotel in Kinigi, and they told me that for the gorillas, you need a car to get to the park headquarters, and then once you know your group, you need to get from the headquarters to the trekking start point?? Do you confirm this? Is that really how it works? They say the hotel has a driver and it would cost 100 DOLLARS!! I just found out that on top of the permit, there are other fees??? Uhh… Are there other options, knowing I don’t want to rent a 4x4 since I’m traveling alone?
And if I don’t get the gorilla permit but just want to visit the Diane Fossey tomb, is it the same issue? From Kinigi, do you need a 4x4? How far is the tomb from the headquarters? Is it a hike you can do alone OR DO YOU NEED A GUIDE, ON FOOT? By car?? If someone could explain everything to me… and is the DF Foundation different??
If I decide to go through an agency, is it possible in Musanze (which would save me trips) or is it mandatory to go through Kigali? Thanks so much for your help… Best regards
Hey everyone,
I’m in the middle of planning a road trip in Southern Africa, and I’m specifically working on the itinerary—especially the distances.
I’ve got the time, but I’m struggling with the transfer days (so much driving just to end up spending the whole day on the road). That’s why I’m trying to analyze travel times, even if it means adding extra stops.
My highlights in Zimbabwe would be: - Hwange - Victoria Falls (and maybe Matusadona) - Mana Pools - Harare - Gonarezhou - Great Zimbabwe
But the distances and travel times seem huge (over 4 hours each time), and I don’t see how to make the drives more chill or shorten them—even if it means adding stops (but which ones?) between each leg.
Would anyone be able to estimate the travel time between these highlights and maybe suggest some nice stops to take breaks?
I’m in the middle of planning a road trip in Southern Africa, and I’m specifically working on the itinerary—especially the distances.
I’ve got the time, but I’m struggling with the transfer days (so much driving just to end up spending the whole day on the road). That’s why I’m trying to analyze travel times, even if it means adding extra stops.
My highlights in Zimbabwe would be: - Hwange - Victoria Falls (and maybe Matusadona) - Mana Pools - Harare - Gonarezhou - Great Zimbabwe
But the distances and travel times seem huge (over 4 hours each time), and I don’t see how to make the drives more chill or shorten them—even if it means adding stops (but which ones?) between each leg.
Would anyone be able to estimate the travel time between these highlights and maybe suggest some nice stops to take breaks?