Reviews of safaris to Maasai Mara Conservancies
390 holiday reviews from our travellers of holidays which include Mara Conservancies.
Mr & Mrs K
Maidstone
"Maasai Mara 2024 trip"
I visited Kenya between 27 Aug 2024 and 6 Sep 2024
"A very good trip. We have steered clear of Kenya for many years because it has become so popular and crowded but felt we would like to give it a try again in the hope that we might see the wildebeest crossing the rivers with all the action that the crossing produces.
In the event we were unsuccessful in that regard because animals are not always predictable! Having entered the Mara pretty much on schedule they decided to turn round and go back into Tanzania. In fact this the third year running they have not travelled as far north as previously.
In this respect it was our fault for relying on historic data and we had not taken the trouble to update ourselves on recent trends. It will always be difficult to make predictions on this subject and while there are websites which give up to date information this is not relevant at the time one has to make a booking.
This disappointment was compensated by several rare sightings. We were able to spend a lot of time and able to follow a Serval mother and three kittens and on two separate occasions we witnessed a cheetah making a successful chase and kill right in front of us. Over many years of going on safari we have occasionally seen cheetahs with the result of a successful chase and kill but never before have we seen the actual chase right in front of us.
We selected the two camps because they are operated by a company with several locations in southern Africa and who work with Expert Africa and whose camps we have visited at four other locations in Tanzania and where we were suitably impressed.
One particular aspect which pleased us was the flexibility of the ranger/guides to check with their guests on the duration of the trips. The fact that we always had a packed breakfast with us meant the duration of each trip was not governed by the need to get back for a cooked meal." Read full review: 10 nights in Africa; 10 on a Kenya safari
In the event we were unsuccessful in that regard because animals are not always predictable! Having entered the Mara pretty much on schedule they decided to turn round and go back into Tanzania. In fact this the third year running they have not travelled as far north as previously.
In this respect it was our fault for relying on historic data and we had not taken the trouble to update ourselves on recent trends. It will always be difficult to make predictions on this subject and while there are websites which give up to date information this is not relevant at the time one has to make a booking.
This disappointment was compensated by several rare sightings. We were able to spend a lot of time and able to follow a Serval mother and three kittens and on two separate occasions we witnessed a cheetah making a successful chase and kill right in front of us. Over many years of going on safari we have occasionally seen cheetahs with the result of a successful chase and kill but never before have we seen the actual chase right in front of us.
We selected the two camps because they are operated by a company with several locations in southern Africa and who work with Expert Africa and whose camps we have visited at four other locations in Tanzania and where we were suitably impressed.
One particular aspect which pleased us was the flexibility of the ranger/guides to check with their guests on the duration of the trips. The fact that we always had a packed breakfast with us meant the duration of each trip was not governed by the need to get back for a cooked meal." Read full review: 10 nights in Africa; 10 on a Kenya safari
Overall trip
Excellent
Nicola
London, UK
"My Aug 2024 trip - Kenya"
I visited Kenya between 12 Aug 2024 and 27 Aug 2024
"Overall an excellent trip, Expert Africa's team - Lyndsey in primis - was attentive, highly communicative, competent and were able to suggest the best itinerary and options given our budget and our wishes.
We were very happy dealing with them, as well as with the quality of their partner companies and staff on the ground, and would highly recommend them to anyone wishing to undertake a safari trip in Africa." Read full review: 15 nights in Africa; 8 on a Kenya safari
We were very happy dealing with them, as well as with the quality of their partner companies and staff on the ground, and would highly recommend them to anyone wishing to undertake a safari trip in Africa." Read full review: 15 nights in Africa; 8 on a Kenya safari
Overall trip
Excellent
Joyorins
UK
"My Aug 2024 Kenya trip with 10 yo"
I visited Kenya between 10 Aug 2024 and 20 Aug 2024
"The trip was excellent with everything arranged perfectly bar a small hitch with arranging private game vehicle which I recommend if travelling with children.
Accommodation was above expectation. 3 days on safari with a 10yo is enough and kept him engaged, before heading to the beach for snorkelling etc.
There are a few people on the beach in Diani trying to sell but they are generally polite and can be waved on.
Overall the trip exceeded expectations and we will go back!" Read full review: 10 nights in Africa; 9 on a Kenya safari
Accommodation was above expectation. 3 days on safari with a 10yo is enough and kept him engaged, before heading to the beach for snorkelling etc.
There are a few people on the beach in Diani trying to sell but they are generally polite and can be waved on.
Overall the trip exceeded expectations and we will go back!" Read full review: 10 nights in Africa; 9 on a Kenya safari
Overall trip
Excellent
Mr W & Ms W + kids
NL
"Maasai Mara 2024"
I visited Kenya between 4 Aug 2024 and 13 Aug 2024
"Another wonderful trip to Kenya. We were only gone for a bit longer than one week, but the intensity of such trips and all the things we saw along the way makes it seem like a much longer trip. We have many great memories and hope to return soon."
Read full review: 9 nights in Africa; 8 on a Kenya safari
Overall trip
Excellent
J and R
Bedford
"My Jul 2024 trip"
I visited Kenya between 14 Jul 2024 and 31 Jul 2024
"Thank you so much Expert Africa!
I first went to Kenya in the seventies and have since done many, many trips to Africa, mostly holidays but also school sports tours. I can honestly say that, despite the rain, this has been the most enjoyable and rewarding of all!
Of course Steve Carey had a lot to do suggesting the itinerary but Kicheche was the perfect climax. All the arrangements worked seamlessly and you have helped make us very privileged. For Hannah it was a first trip to Africa and she has had the most incredible experience.
We will all be back......" Read full review: 17 nights in Africa; 10 on a Kenya safari
I first went to Kenya in the seventies and have since done many, many trips to Africa, mostly holidays but also school sports tours. I can honestly say that, despite the rain, this has been the most enjoyable and rewarding of all!
Of course Steve Carey had a lot to do suggesting the itinerary but Kicheche was the perfect climax. All the arrangements worked seamlessly and you have helped make us very privileged. For Hannah it was a first trip to Africa and she has had the most incredible experience.
We will all be back......" Read full review: 17 nights in Africa; 10 on a Kenya safari
Overall trip
Excellent
Ms & Mr WB
London
"A memorable trip that exceeded our expectations"
I visited Kenya between 8 Jul 2024 and 20 Jul 2024
"It was fabulous. Safari was a highlight that exceeded our expectations.
Lyndsey was patient, knowledgeable and always responded promptly and effectively to our questions and requests. Thank you" Read full review: 12 nights in Africa; 11 on a Kenya safari
Lyndsey was patient, knowledgeable and always responded promptly and effectively to our questions and requests. Thank you" Read full review: 12 nights in Africa; 11 on a Kenya safari
Overall trip
Excellent
G & L
Washington DC
"Extraordinary trip…..perfect in every way"
I visited Kenya and 1 other country between 30 Jun 2024 and 19 Jul 2024
"We booked this trip about a year ahead of our actual travels. We did so as we were being very selective on the camps and the dates. So we had very high expectations.
Lyndsey Marris was both incredibly knowledgeable and patient as she guided us through the various options and alternatives. We were not disappointed. We stayed at 2 wonderful camps in Rwanda ((Magashi and Sabyinyo Lodge). Both were exceptional. Wonderful accommodations and food. Staff attentive but yet fun. We saw the Big 5 at Magashi and marveled at the golden monkeys and silverback gorillas at Volcanoes National Park.
Then we traveled to Sirikoi Camp (Lewa Conservancy) and Naboisho (Naboisho Conservancy) in Kenya. Both camps were terrific. I could not pick a favorite. And abundant wildlife….lions, rhinos, elephants, giraffes, hyenas, and many,, many more…..H
ighly recommend working with Lyndsey and these particular camps.
We do a couple of international trips each year. This was one of the very best in every aspect.
This was our 2nd trip with Expert Africa. You do everything…..everything….very well. Happy to recommend EA to all of our friends." Read full review: 19 nights in Africa; 9 on a Kenya safari
Lyndsey Marris was both incredibly knowledgeable and patient as she guided us through the various options and alternatives. We were not disappointed. We stayed at 2 wonderful camps in Rwanda ((Magashi and Sabyinyo Lodge). Both were exceptional. Wonderful accommodations and food. Staff attentive but yet fun. We saw the Big 5 at Magashi and marveled at the golden monkeys and silverback gorillas at Volcanoes National Park.
Then we traveled to Sirikoi Camp (Lewa Conservancy) and Naboisho (Naboisho Conservancy) in Kenya. Both camps were terrific. I could not pick a favorite. And abundant wildlife….lions, rhinos, elephants, giraffes, hyenas, and many,, many more…..H
ighly recommend working with Lyndsey and these particular camps.
We do a couple of international trips each year. This was one of the very best in every aspect.
This was our 2nd trip with Expert Africa. You do everything…..everything….very well. Happy to recommend EA to all of our friends." Read full review: 19 nights in Africa; 9 on a Kenya safari
Overall trip
Excellent
Mr & Mrs H
Cheshire
"My Jun 2024 trip"
I visited Kenya between 22 Jun 2024 and 11 Jul 2024
"Wow! A massive thank you to Jessica and the rest of the team at Expert Africa. We used Expert Africa to plan our honeymoon. From start to finish, Jess was extremely helpful, knowledgeable, and accommodating. The service was excellent and the accommodation Jessica sourced for us was perfect! Thank you!"
Read full review: 19 nights in Africa; 5 on a Kenya safari
Overall trip
Excellent
M & T Hastings
USA
"My Jun 2024 trip"
I visited Kenya between 15 Jun 2024 and 5 Jul 2024
"I've recommended EA to a friend who said they were taking a safari trip, but they had already booked.
If we were to take another safari trip, we would def use Richard and his company.
When we made our initial deposit, my husbands payment went right through on his credit card. For some reason my wouldn't with my card. I called and spoke with a young lady located in New Zealand (which was fun since I've been to NZ and have family on both islands). She was quite helpful and got my payment to go through.
On emails, Richard always got back with me in a very timely manner." Read full review: 20 nights in Africa; 13 on a Kenya safari
If we were to take another safari trip, we would def use Richard and his company.
When we made our initial deposit, my husbands payment went right through on his credit card. For some reason my wouldn't with my card. I called and spoke with a young lady located in New Zealand (which was fun since I've been to NZ and have family on both islands). She was quite helpful and got my payment to go through.
On emails, Richard always got back with me in a very timely manner." Read full review: 20 nights in Africa; 13 on a Kenya safari
Overall trip
Excellent
Ms D. / Ms. C
Canada
"My Jun 2024 trip"
I visited Kenya between 15 Jun 2024 and 5 Jul 2024
"This trip exceeded all of my expectations, which were high.
I loved every minute of it, and particularly appreciated Nancie Wight’s expertise and guidance.
I will definitely use Expert Africa again if I have the opportunity." Read full review: 20 nights in Africa; 13 on a Kenya safari
I loved every minute of it, and particularly appreciated Nancie Wight’s expertise and guidance.
I will definitely use Expert Africa again if I have the opportunity." Read full review: 20 nights in Africa; 13 on a Kenya safari
Overall trip
Excellent
390
reviews of Mara Conservancies by travellers since August 2007
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