South Africa: reviews from our travellers
Unedited reviews written by our most recent travellers to South Africa
"Could not have been better"
The camps were a perfect succession from semi-rustic to start and finishing with pure pure luxury." Read full review: 15 nights in Africa; 10 on a Botswana safari
"My Jun 2012 trip"
The balance of time we spent in each place was perfect, and therefore gave us a wide range of experiences in the time available.
The car hire was a success. I think for the gravel roads, the Nissan X-trail is a must, rather than a saloon, and people should be encouraged to take one. The Budget car we had was not provided with a second spare wheel, as had been booked. The manager was apologetic, but said the wheel he intended to supply was damaged. He then rightly said (as it turned out) that with it being the dry season, with no potholes, and with sensible driving, we should have no problem. In fact we had no tyre problems at all. I think in the dry season a second wheel is perhaps overcautious. Very comfortable car, with plenty of space for both people and luggage.
Suggestions to help us improve our trips or our service:
Hard to think of anything. Just keep visiting places, listen to feedback and ensure you understand what is important for the client (even if he doesn't know himself!)" Read full review: 20 nights in Africa; 16 on a Namibia trip
"My May 2012 trip"
Maruska listened to what we thought we wanted and she delivered. Every detail was covered, we had no worries or gaps. It was a memorable trip and we hope to be back, with Expert Africa, (and Maruska) of course!" Read full review: 14 nights in Africa; 6 on a Botswana safari
"My May 2012 trip"
Her recommendations assured us of perfect days, every day. To be met at a remote airfield, an hour late, by a jeep who dropped us at a waiting boat at the side of the river, met at the other side and taken to a hotel, all by kind, proud, and efficient staff is an amazing feat. It never occurred to us to be worried - we just accepted each step as part of our wonderful journey.
Looking back it could have been a series of mishaps - but it was perfect! Graeme never wants to travel anywhere else because we enjoyed sights and experiences we never imagined - endless desert, rich delta, the power and beauty of the animals, the kind and gentle people, and moving music. Thank you for the gift!" Read full review: 24 nights in Africa; 7 on a Namibia trip
"A very enjoyable holiday"
The one new venue was Babylonstoren, which was far more commercialised than we were anticipating. It's probably more geared towards younger people. It definitely is not suitable for the disabled. However, we have not heard or seen a single negative comment about it. so it presumably comes down to personal preference.
Suggestions to help us improve our trips or our service:
As far as we are concerned, no improvements needed!" Read full review: 16 nights in Africa; 11 on a South Africa trip
""
The accommodation was better than we'd expected but, in each instance, had the atmosphere that we'd hoped for so well done to Nick Hobbs and the female (can't rememember her name) who recommended Bazaruto Lodge.
Very impressed by Expert Africa and Wilderness Safaris and would recommend them to anyone thinking of going to Africa." Read full review: 17 nights in Africa; 6 on a Botswana safari
"The Trip Overall"
"An exciting return to nature"
Our luggage guardian at Johannesburg was helpful and efficient and prompt.
Suggestions to help us improve our trips or our service:
We regret not having considered including the Victoria Falls in our itinerary and it was not logistically possible to amend that once in Botswana. However we would have responded to prompting from Expert Africa for this additional option." Read full review: 8 nights in Africa; 7 on a Botswana safari
"Vince and Annette in Africa-# 2."
I think we must have just lucked our with our 1 and only guide in Tanzania, because we just loved him and we were with him for 10 days. If only we could have had ALL of the staff @ Lebala with us for the entire trip. Unfortunately that makes such a big difference, the people you share your time with.
As far as the safari/animal encounters it was great. In Botswana you see far less numbers of animals, but you are able to get much closer and with much fewer fellow tourists around. The part of the trip that we both liked the least was the Seychelles. To many transfers and to many quick overnight stays. The flights times did not make anything easy. We would get in to late the 1st night and then have to leave at the crack of dawn the following morning, missing meals, etc. Or we would get in too early to check in and would have to hang out in the common area for hours until our room was ready. Conveniently breakfast was always over and it wasn't time for lunch. I don't eat much @ 6 am while heading out the door for yet another shuttle/ferry or plane trip.
I know that Air Seychelles REALLY messed up our itinerary, and I think it would have been much better before all the changes. It certainly is beautiful there." Read full review: 25 nights in Africa; 10 on a Botswana safari
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Suggestions to help us improve our trips or our service:
It was very straightforward - could not have been more helpful." Read full review: 13 nights in Africa; 10 on a South Africa trip
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