Travel reviews by BJB from Los Angeles

"As we deplaned at the Khwai airstrip after over 24 hours of traveling, we were greeted by the ruggedly handsome and personable Andrew Harkness. Sorry girls, he's happily married with two young sons.

This was the beginning of a fantastic four days in Khwai. As other reviewers have indicated the camp is nicer than many of the permanent camps throughout Africa. Our tent was spacious and the beds were comfortable. Each night Andrew's team formed our towels into a different animal including giraffes, birds, and elephants. There was a separate sitting tent with a trunk housing a full bar, love seat, and chairs to relax at your leisure.

The meals prepared by the team were outstanding. Pippa, Andrew's wife, provides the recipes and coordinates the meals. We are picky eaters and Pippa managed to surpass our expectations. Patrick, the chef, and his capable team execute her recipes that include quiche, vegetable lasagna, curry, and fresh bread baked over the fire. We didn't have to lift a finger. Harkness Mobile Safaris is "glamping" at its finest.

These travellers commented about their private guide:

Experiencing the guiding of Andrew is equivalent to being a treasured guest in someone's home. Every detail of the camp and game drives was outstanding. As other guests noted, the camp and meals are as nice as the high end camps throughout Africa. With our goal of photographing game in the bush, we spent a day following the "wild or painted dogs'. While tracking two female lionesses, Andrew climbed on top of the vehicle with binoculars to assure a photo op. With his vast knowledge of birds, there were many opportunities to photograph birds resting or in flight. While we are not campers, the experience was fantastic and not one to miss."

"We only spent a few hours here.

Our goal was to see Victoria Falls and this luxury hotel is well located for this purpose."

"While not easy to reach, Camp Hwange is a hidden gem. It is small and intimate with an outstanding staff.

The rooms are large and comfortable with great views of the game gathering at the watering hole. In addition to game drives in a jeep, there are many opportunities for walking.

During the day, we tracked lions, followed a cheetah, and experienced outstanding night drives.

For easier access, an airstrip is being built in the vicinity and should be completed in the near future.

Expert Africa arranged for Julian Brookstein as a private guide here; these travellers commented:

We had the privilege of being guided by Julian Brookstein. In addition to his vast knowledge of the animals in the bush, Julian has a particular interest in lion conservation. As we sat observing two lionesses and their two year old cubs, Julian shared the most fascinating lineage and history of the lions in the area. We also had the opportunity to track lions on a seven mile walking safari. Hwange offers the opportunity for night drives and Julian did not disappoint. His ability to spot small game was remarkable.

On our final day, we tracked a cheetah who cavorted and "posed" for us for over an hour."

"Vundu is situated on the Zambezi River and lends itself to adventure seekers. It is a permanent tented camp with large bedrooms and living room. The staff is wonderful and accomomdating.

Expert Africa arranged for Nick Murray as a private guide here; these travellers commented:

When we were leaving Camp Hwange, one of the staff commented that Nick enjoys getting close to the wildlife. She was not kidding.

Nick has a vast knowledge of the wildlife in Mana Pools and is writing his dissertation on the wild dogs. Mana Pools does not allow off road vehicles, so all tracking is done on foot. Therefore, we spent one unforgettable day hiking to a blind to observe wild dogs in their habitat and then watching them minutes after a kill. Later, we were on foot within feet of lions mating. Our hearts still race as we recall the roar of the male as he mock charged us.

Truly an unforgettable adventure!"