Travel reviews by Mr & Mrs H from Lisvane
Review Distribution
Total number of trips
10
Countries visited
7
Lodges stayed in
47
Excursions taken
0
My Sep 2024 trip
Kenya between 15 Sep 2024 and 26 Sep 2024
"Overall, we enjoyed the trip but unlike our previous visit in 2019 we were disappointed by the amount of people and volume of vehicles on game drives.
The exception was Mara expedition camp."
The exception was Mara expedition camp."
Arranged By Claire Scott
Four Points Nairobi Airport
"Four Points Nairobi Airport review"
1 night
Arrived
15 Sep 2024
Good
Experience Report
Overall Rating:
Good
Location
Excellent
Service
Good
Rooms
Good
Food
Good
Saruni Samburu
"Saruni Samburu review"
3 nights
Arrived
16 Sep 2024
"Great choice if you prefer 5* luxury with great views. You cannot fault the camp for comfort and attention to detail.
The downside is the distance to the river for game drives with little of interest on route. There were also far too many vehicles at any game sightings."
The downside is the distance to the river for game drives with little of interest on route. There were also far too many vehicles at any game sightings."
Good
Experience Report
Overall Rating:
Good
Location
Good
Service
Good
Activities
Good
Rooms
Excellent
Food
Good
Facilities
Excellent
Sightings report
Buffalo
1 sighting
Elephant
Many sightings
Gerenuk
Many sightings
Giraffe
Many sightings
Lion
Many sightings
Oryx
Many sightings
Zebra
1 sighting
Encounter Mara
"Encounter Mara review"
4 nights
Arrived
19 Sep 2024
"The accommodation was comfortable and the camp was well managed.
Disappointed by the number of vehicles at any game sighting."
Disappointed by the number of vehicles at any game sighting."
Good
Experience Report
Overall Rating:
Good
Location
Good
Service
Good
Activities
Good
Rooms
Good
Food
Average
Facilities
Good
Sightings report
Buffalo
1 sighting
Cheetah
Many sightings
Elephant
Many sightings
Giraffe
Many sightings
Hippo
Many sightings
Leopard
1 sighting
Lion
Many sightings
Spotted Hyena
Many sightings
Wildebeest
Many sightings
Zebra
Many sightings
Mara Expedition Camp
"Mara Expedition Camp review"
3 nights
Arrived
23 Sep 2024
"This was by a stretch the best camp we visited during our trip.
Very friendly and efficient staff who went out of their way to be helpful. Great attention to detail and hard to find any faults.
If we return to Kenya we would go back to Mara Expedition camp."
Very friendly and efficient staff who went out of their way to be helpful. Great attention to detail and hard to find any faults.
If we return to Kenya we would go back to Mara Expedition camp."
Excellent
Experience Report
Overall Rating:
Excellent
Location
Excellent
Service
Excellent
Activities
Good
Rooms
Excellent
Food
Good
Facilities
Excellent
Sightings report
Elephant
Many sightings
Giraffe
Many sightings
Hippo
Many sightings
Lion
1 sighting
Wildebeest
Many sightings
Zebra
1 sighting
May 2023 - Central Kalahari and the Salt Pans
Botswana between 2 May 2023 and 14 May 2023
"Usually you remember a safari by the wildlife sightings and interactions. In the case of the Central Kalahari and the Kalahari salt pans we will remember the diverse topography and amazing landscapes. That said in the Central Kalahari we have never seen so many Giraffe and Oryx and equally in the Salt Pans the Wilderbeest were in huge numbers."
Arranged By Tracy Lederer
Thamalakane River Lodge
"Thamalakane River Lodge review"
1 night
Arrived
3 May 2023
"Thamalakane River Lodge is a very comfortable one night stop and is in a great location by the river and close to the airport. The staff are very friendly and efficient.The evening meal choices are limited but the vegetarian option was very good.
If we return to Botswana we would definitely return to Thamalakane rather than overnight in Johannesburg."
If we return to Botswana we would definitely return to Thamalakane rather than overnight in Johannesburg."
Good
Experience Report
Overall Rating:
Good
Location
Good
Service
Good
Facilities
Good
Rooms
Good
Food
Good
Botswana Private Mobile Safari
"Central Kalahari Private Mobile Safari review"
6 nights
Arrived
4 May 2023
"This was our second mobile safari with Andrew and his support team. The central Kalahari is vast and is a true wilderness with diverse topography and stunning landscapes. We spent six nights exploring Deception Valley and the surrounding area in two mobile camps. The remoteness and wilderness presents a real challenge for finding game but on every drive you always come across the unexpected or something of interest.
Andrew is a very experienced guide and runs a very professional mobile safari experience. The attention to detail ensures you enjoy a great experience both in the bush and back at camp."
Andrew is a very experienced guide and runs a very professional mobile safari experience. The attention to detail ensures you enjoy a great experience both in the bush and back at camp."
Excellent
Experience Report
Overall Rating:
Excellent
Location
Good
Service
Excellent
Activities
Excellent
Rooms
Good
Food
Excellent
Facilities
Good
Sightings report
Giraffe
10+ sightings
Lion
1 sighting
Wildebeest
6 sightings
San Camp
"San Camp review"
3 nights
Arrived
10 May 2023
"San Camp more then meets the stylistic expectation but sometimes more substance would be appreciated. The accommodation is spacious and well furnished but the living area has very poor lighting and some bed side lighting should be provided.
If you prefer choices for your activities avoid this camp as the activities are compulsory! That said we would not have opted for the quad bike activity but we enjoyed the evening and sunset experience. Two other compulsory activities are the Meerkat and Bush people walk and interaction. The Meerkat experience is enjoyable but the Meerkats have been habituated to humans. We cannot comment on the Bush people experience because they failed to turn up due to a communication issue?! Besides the compulsory nature of the activities it also seems to be camp policy to fill the vehicles (7) with guests despite the fact that two other vehicles and the associated guides had no guests. The salt pans and landscape is stunning. Overall we enjoyed our three nights."
If you prefer choices for your activities avoid this camp as the activities are compulsory! That said we would not have opted for the quad bike activity but we enjoyed the evening and sunset experience. Two other compulsory activities are the Meerkat and Bush people walk and interaction. The Meerkat experience is enjoyable but the Meerkats have been habituated to humans. We cannot comment on the Bush people experience because they failed to turn up due to a communication issue?! Besides the compulsory nature of the activities it also seems to be camp policy to fill the vehicles (7) with guests despite the fact that two other vehicles and the associated guides had no guests. The salt pans and landscape is stunning. Overall we enjoyed our three nights."
Good
Experience Report
Overall Rating:
Good
Location
Excellent
Service
Good
Activities
Good
Rooms
Good
Food
Good
Facilities
Excellent
Sightings report
Aardvark
2 sightings
Brown Hyena
2 sightings
Elephant
1 sighting
Lion
2 sightings
Meerkat
1 sighting
Wildebeest
10+ sightings
Zebra
10+ sightings
My September 2022 trip
Zambia between 14 Sep 2022 and 29 Sep 2022
"Zambia is one of our favourite safari destinations and we wanted to return to Old Mondora and the Lower Zambezi. On prior trips we had visited both the North and South Luangwa Valley so we decided to visit Kafue.
Overall, we enjoyed our time in Kafue and would consider returning to the Busanga Plain but would be very mindful of camp location relative to accessing the plain.
Suggestions to help us improve our trips or our service:
Not Really."
Overall, we enjoyed our time in Kafue and would consider returning to the Busanga Plain but would be very mindful of camp location relative to accessing the plain.
Suggestions to help us improve our trips or our service:
Not Really."
Arranged By Lucy Copson
Pioneer Camp
"Pioneer Camp review"
1 night
Arrived
14 Sep 2022
"We would rate the location higher if you are planning to depart from Lusaka airport. However, we were planning to travel to Kafue NP via a road transfer which effectively meant a 5 hour journey rather than 4 hours.
On a positive note the staff were both friendly and very helpful, when our transfer driver failed to arrive at 06:00am for the road transfer. He eventually arrived at 09:30am (car trouble)! The Camp grounds are pleasant and the swimming pool area is good.
In summary, the Camp is rustic and is in need of some refurbishment."
On a positive note the staff were both friendly and very helpful, when our transfer driver failed to arrive at 06:00am for the road transfer. He eventually arrived at 09:30am (car trouble)! The Camp grounds are pleasant and the swimming pool area is good.
In summary, the Camp is rustic and is in need of some refurbishment."
Average
Experience Report
Overall Rating:
Average
Location
Average
Food
Average
Rooms
Average
Facilities
Average
KaingU Lodge
"KaingU Lodge review"
3 nights
Arrived
15 Sep 2022
"We did not choose KaingU for the density of game so we were not disappointed! The location on the river and the river itself is quite stunning. The area is also rich in bird diversity. Our guide, Israel, was both knowledgeable and good company on all our activities.
We opted for morning game drives and afternoon activities on the river.
It takes approximately one hour before you leave the "Spine Road" to explore the topography and landscape which will not disappoint."
We opted for morning game drives and afternoon activities on the river.
It takes approximately one hour before you leave the "Spine Road" to explore the topography and landscape which will not disappoint."
Good
Experience Report
Overall Rating:
Good
Location
Excellent
Service
Good
Activities
Good
Rooms
Good
Food
Average
Facilities
Good
Sightings report
Buffalo
1 sighting
Elephant
5 sightings
Hippo
3 sightings
Leopard
2 sightings
Musekese Camp
"Musekese Camp review"
3 nights
Arrived
18 Sep 2022
"Musekese Camp faces a lagoon which is rich with Puku, Waterbuck and one resident Elephant. We were surprised that both the lagoon and the game drives did not yield either more wildlife diversity and density. However, the area is rich in bird diversity which we both enjoyed.
Our guide, James Duncan-Anderson who is a private guide and safari specialist (under contract to Musekese) was highly knowledgeable in every aspect of wildlife, birds, flora and fauna."
Our guide, James Duncan-Anderson who is a private guide and safari specialist (under contract to Musekese) was highly knowledgeable in every aspect of wildlife, birds, flora and fauna."
Good
Experience Report
Overall Rating:
Good
Location
Good
Service
Good
Activities
Good
Rooms
Good
Food
Average
Facilities
Good
Sightings report
Elephant
1 sighting
Hippo
6 sightings
Leopard
4 sightings
Lion
3 sightings
Wild dog
3 sightings
Ntemwa Busanga Camp
"Ntemwa Busanga Camp review"
3 nights
Arrived
21 Sep 2022
"Ntemwa is approximately two to three hours road transfer from Musekese. The departure time at 14:15 effectively means you have dead time at Musekese and also miss the afternoon activities at Ntemwa.
Ntemwa is a rustic Bush camp that is set in a interesting location which we both enjoyed when in camp.
We opted for two full day game drives both of which were both interesting and enjoyable.
From Ntemwa it takes approximately one hour to reach the Busanga plain and there is little to see before you arrive at the plain. If we were to return to the Busanga plain we would opt for a camp on the plain. The landscape is both interesting and very pleasing to the eye and we were lucky enough to see two or three new bird species."
Ntemwa is a rustic Bush camp that is set in a interesting location which we both enjoyed when in camp.
We opted for two full day game drives both of which were both interesting and enjoyable.
From Ntemwa it takes approximately one hour to reach the Busanga plain and there is little to see before you arrive at the plain. If we were to return to the Busanga plain we would opt for a camp on the plain. The landscape is both interesting and very pleasing to the eye and we were lucky enough to see two or three new bird species."
Good
Experience Report
Overall Rating:
Good
Location
Average
Service
Good
Activities
Good
Rooms
Good
Food
Good
Facilities
Average
Sightings report
Hippo
4 sightings
Lion
4 sightings
Roan antelope
5 sightings
Sable antelope
3 sightings
Wildebeest
10+ sightings
Zebra
3 sightings
Old Mondoro Bushcamp
"Old Mondoro Bushcamp review"
5 nights
Arrived
24 Sep 2022
"We last stayed at Old Mondora in 2013 and always planned to return. It did not disappoint!
Mark and Madeline were excellent hosts and the attention to detail was very impressive. Mark was also our guide for our 5 nights and we have some great experiences with the Wild dogs and puppies which we will never forget.
The Lower Zambezi NP lacks wildlife diversity of some other national parks but provides a very rich experience and enjoyable wildlife opportunities to observe the species at very close range that inhabit the area.
The Winterthorn trees and river enhance the overall enjoyment and beauty of the Lower Zambezi."
Mark and Madeline were excellent hosts and the attention to detail was very impressive. Mark was also our guide for our 5 nights and we have some great experiences with the Wild dogs and puppies which we will never forget.
The Lower Zambezi NP lacks wildlife diversity of some other national parks but provides a very rich experience and enjoyable wildlife opportunities to observe the species at very close range that inhabit the area.
The Winterthorn trees and river enhance the overall enjoyment and beauty of the Lower Zambezi."
Excellent
Experience Report
Overall Rating:
Excellent
Location
Excellent
Service
Excellent
Activities
Excellent
Rooms
Excellent
Food
Excellent
Facilities
Excellent
Sightings report
Elephant
10+ sightings
Hippo
10+ sightings
Leopard
5 sightings
Lion
5 sightings
Wild dog
10+ sightings
Zebra
4 sightings
My Aug 2022 trip
Zimbabwe and 1 other country between 31 Aug 2022 and 14 Sep 2022
"Our first trip to Zimbabwe and we will return to Zimbabwe at some future point."
Arranged By Claire Scott
Safari Club SA
"Safari Club SA review"
1 night
Arrived
31 Aug 2022
"The Safari Club is adequate for a one night stop over in Johannesburg.
The host was welcoming and our room was both clean and comfortable.
There was some confusion over whether our departure transfer was private but the confusion was quickly resolved."
The host was welcoming and our room was both clean and comfortable.
There was some confusion over whether our departure transfer was private but the confusion was quickly resolved."
Average
Experience Report
Overall Rating:
Average
Location
Good
Service
Average
Rooms
Good
Food
Average
Zambezi Expeditions
"Zambezi Expeditions review"
4 nights
Arrived
1 Sep 2022
"We enjoyed our time at Zambezi Expeditions.
The camp was a very friendly camp and from the moment we arrived until our departure we were made to feel at home.
Our guide was both knowledgeable and good company."
The camp was a very friendly camp and from the moment we arrived until our departure we were made to feel at home.
Our guide was both knowledgeable and good company."
Excellent
Experience Report
Overall Rating:
Excellent
Location
Excellent
Service
Good
Activities
Good
Rooms
Good
Food
Good
Facilities
Good
Sightings report
Buffalo
2 sightings
Eland
4 sightings
Elephant
10+ sightings
Hippo
10+ sightings
Leopard
1 sighting
Lion
4 sightings
Spotted Hyena
3 sightings
Wild dog
2 sightings
Zebra
7 sightings
Kanga Bush Camp
"Kanga Bush Camp review"
3 nights
Arrived
5 Sep 2022
"Kanga is a good choice if you prefer a “armchair” Safari. Plentiful elephants daily, largely from the main camp.
The accommodation was to a high standard and the staff were very friendly.
Unfortunately, our guide was a very poor communicator and lacked lustre. The surrounding bush is very dense and if you are fortunate enough to spot wildlife on a game drive it is only for a few fleeting seconds."
The accommodation was to a high standard and the staff were very friendly.
Unfortunately, our guide was a very poor communicator and lacked lustre. The surrounding bush is very dense and if you are fortunate enough to spot wildlife on a game drive it is only for a few fleeting seconds."
Average
Experience Report
Overall Rating:
Average
Location
Good
Service
Good
Activities
Average
Rooms
Excellent
Food
Good
Facilities
Average
Sightings report
Buffalo
3 sightings
Eland
3 sightings
Elephant
7 sightings
Leopard
1 sighting
Lion
1 sighting
Spotted Hyena
2 sightings
Zebra
7 sightings
Somalisa Expeditions
"Somalisa Expeditions review"
4 nights
Arrived
8 Sep 2022
"We had a very enjoyable experience in Somalisa Expeditions and Hwange NP.
Assuming we return to Zimbabwe we would definitely stay at Somalisa Expeditions."
Assuming we return to Zimbabwe we would definitely stay at Somalisa Expeditions."
Excellent
Experience Report
Overall Rating:
Excellent
Location
Excellent
Service
Good
Activities
Good
Rooms
Good
Food
Good
Facilities
Good
Sightings report
Buffalo
1 sighting
Eland
4 sightings
Elephant
10+ sightings
Giraffe
4 sightings
Leopard
1 sighting
Lion
5 sightings
Roan antelope
4 sightings
Sable antelope
5 sightings
Zebra
8 sightings
Ilala Lodge
"Ilala Lodge review"
2 nights
Arrived
12 Sep 2022
"Ilala Lodge is in a great location to visit Victoria Falls and both the food and services were to a high standard."
Excellent
Experience Report
Overall Rating:
Excellent
Location
Excellent
Service
Good
Facilities
Good
Rooms
Excellent
Food
Good
My Jul 2022 trip
Botswana and 1 other country between 17 Jul 2022 and 1 Aug 2022
"Overall, a very interesting and enjoyable trip."
Arranged By Tracy Lederer
City Lodge OR Tambo
"City Lodge OR Tambo review"
1 night
Arrived
20 Jul 2022
"Adequate and convenient for a one night stop over."
Average
Experience Report
Overall Rating:
Average
Location
Good
Service
Average
Facilities
Average
Rooms
Average
Food
Average
Botswana Private Mobile Safari
"Botswana Private Mobile Safari review"
6 nights
Arrived
21 Jul 2022
"We spent 6 nights in total ( 3 nights in Savute & 3 nights in Moremi ). The terrain and topography is very diverse and in itself is very interesting but can present some challenges for locating game. Andrew runs a very professional and efficient operation and is supported by his small team who work very hard to ensure guests enjoy both the bush and camp experience. Both campsites were remote and well chosen.
Andrew, has both a great amount of knowledge and patience. We had some great sightings of Wild Dogs, Leopard’s and Lions besides the usual suspects. We were also very fortunate to see numerous birds.
In summary, we had a very enjoyable and relaxed 6 nights in the bush and besides numerous sightings we also learnt some very interesting information in the process. This included insights on trees, flora, fauna and the geology of the Delta.
Highly recommended and we will definitely consider a future mobile safari with Andrew in a new location in Botswana"
Andrew, has both a great amount of knowledge and patience. We had some great sightings of Wild Dogs, Leopard’s and Lions besides the usual suspects. We were also very fortunate to see numerous birds.
In summary, we had a very enjoyable and relaxed 6 nights in the bush and besides numerous sightings we also learnt some very interesting information in the process. This included insights on trees, flora, fauna and the geology of the Delta.
Highly recommended and we will definitely consider a future mobile safari with Andrew in a new location in Botswana"
Excellent
Experience Report
Overall Rating:
Excellent
Location
Excellent
Service
Excellent
Activities
Excellent
Rooms
Good
Food
Excellent
Facilities
Good
Sightings report
Buffalo
4 sightings
Elephant
5 sightings
Giraffe
3 sightings
Hippo
5 sightings
Leopard
3 sightings
Lion
3 sightings
Wild dog
Many sightings
Wildebeest
6 sightings
Zebra
6 sightings
Lagoon Camp
"Lagoon Camp review"
4 nights
Arrived
27 Jul 2022
"Great location and the accommodation was of a very high standard. Sadly, the food was not to the same standard and the Vegetarian option lacked imagination.
On a more positive note both the guide and spotter were very good and worked very hard to ensure we enjoyed our time at Lagoon camp. Besides game drives you can also spend time on the river which we both enjoyed.
We were very fortunate to witness a pride of lions feasting on a buffalo kill and on a last morning drive saw Wild dogs, Cheetahs, Leopard and Lions. If that was not enough a herd of elephant’s were enjoying a drink by the river. Some morning!"
On a more positive note both the guide and spotter were very good and worked very hard to ensure we enjoyed our time at Lagoon camp. Besides game drives you can also spend time on the river which we both enjoyed.
We were very fortunate to witness a pride of lions feasting on a buffalo kill and on a last morning drive saw Wild dogs, Cheetahs, Leopard and Lions. If that was not enough a herd of elephant’s were enjoying a drink by the river. Some morning!"
Average
Experience Report
Overall Rating:
Average
Location
Excellent
Service
Good
Activities
Good
Rooms
Excellent
Food
Average
Facilities
Good
Sightings report
Buffalo
5 sightings
Cheetah
Many sightings
Elephant
8 sightings
Giraffe
7 sightings
Hippo
6 sightings
Leopard
Many sightings
Lion
4 sightings
Roan antelope
Many sightings
Spotted Hyena
3 sightings
Wild dog
2 sightings
Wildebeest
6 sightings
Zebra
6 sightings
Our October 2019 trip
Kenya between 17 Oct 2019 and 27 Oct 2019
"We have been travelling to Africa for over 12 years and this was our first trip to Kenya. Our overall experience was good with certain aspects being very good.
The majority of our fellow travellers were safari first timers and combining there holiday with a beach experience either on the coast or the island of Lamu. One of the attractions of a safari experience is meeting people from different parts of the world and sharing experiences and we were not disappointed on this trip."
The majority of our fellow travellers were safari first timers and combining there holiday with a beach experience either on the coast or the island of Lamu. One of the attractions of a safari experience is meeting people from different parts of the world and sharing experiences and we were not disappointed on this trip."
Arranged By Claire Scott
Four Points Nairobi Airport
"A very convenient hotel, close to the airport"
1 night
Arrived
17 Oct 2019
"We arrived late and left very early so we did cannot comment on the food.
We were also picked up promptly at the terminal by the hotel."
We were also picked up promptly at the terminal by the hotel."
Good
Experience Report
Overall Rating:
Good
Location
Excellent
Service
Good
Rooms
Good
Elsa's Kopje
"Stylish with substance. "
3 nights
Arrived
18 Oct 2019
"Elsas Kopje is set in a great location and both the relief manager and staff were welcoming and attentive.
Meru had experienced heavy rain for two weeks prior to our arrival so the game had dispersed deep into the bush. When you did see game on a drive the animals were very skittish. This is largely explained by the fact that Meru NP has a history of poaching which is still current though we were told the level of poaching is lower than previously experienced. We also found some of the game drives quite frenetic in the search for elusive game!
The relief manager had an excellent knowledge of both wildlife and birds and also the structure of the national parks and reserves in Kenya.
In summary, Meru is an interesting and attractive NP to visit but you have to be prepared for limited game sighting. That said on two separate occasions we had very good sightings of both white and black Rhino."
Meru had experienced heavy rain for two weeks prior to our arrival so the game had dispersed deep into the bush. When you did see game on a drive the animals were very skittish. This is largely explained by the fact that Meru NP has a history of poaching which is still current though we were told the level of poaching is lower than previously experienced. We also found some of the game drives quite frenetic in the search for elusive game!
The relief manager had an excellent knowledge of both wildlife and birds and also the structure of the national parks and reserves in Kenya.
In summary, Meru is an interesting and attractive NP to visit but you have to be prepared for limited game sighting. That said on two separate occasions we had very good sightings of both white and black Rhino."
Good
Experience Report
Overall Rating:
Good
Location
Excellent
Service
Excellent
Activities
Average
Rooms
Excellent
Food
Good
Facilities
Excellent
Sightings report
Black Rhino
1 sighting
Buffalo
4 sightings
Eland
1 sighting
Elephant
1 sighting
Gerenuk
2 sightings
Giraffe
4 sightings
Hippo
3 sightings
Lion
2 sightings
Oryx
2 sightings
White Rhino
1 sighting
Zebra
5 sightings
Elephant Pepper Camp
"Great camp and a very enjoyable experience"
3 nights
Arrived
21 Oct 2019
"This camp is small which is a good thing and the hosts and staff offered excellent service and flexibility.
Our guide was very knowledgeable, very attentive with a good sense of humour. We also had the added benefit of learning a lot about the Masai culture and traditions.
We were also very fortunate to have excellent sightings of Cheetah with 6 cubs, Lions with cubs and Hyena with cubs on two separate sightings.
We were also able to experience all the wildlife at a very relaxed pace and take time to observe animal behaviour."
Our guide was very knowledgeable, very attentive with a good sense of humour. We also had the added benefit of learning a lot about the Masai culture and traditions.
We were also very fortunate to have excellent sightings of Cheetah with 6 cubs, Lions with cubs and Hyena with cubs on two separate sightings.
We were also able to experience all the wildlife at a very relaxed pace and take time to observe animal behaviour."
Excellent
Experience Report
Overall Rating:
Excellent
Location
Excellent
Service
Excellent
Activities
Excellent
Rooms
Excellent
Food
Good
Facilities
Excellent
Sightings report
Buffalo
5 sightings
Cheetah
6 sightings
Eland
1 sighting
Elephant
4 sightings
Giraffe
4 sightings
Hippo
4 sightings
Leopard
3 sightings
Lion
4 sightings
Spotted Hyena
4 sightings
Wildebeest
4 sightings
Zebra
4 sightings
Tortilis Camp
"Style without substance!"
3 nights
Arrived
24 Oct 2019
"This camp bears all the hallmarks of an establishment that treats guests as clients which could not be said of the other two camps in Meru and Masai Mara.
The hosts based on our experience do not engage with the guests other that on a superficial level. On our last night when we were enjoying supper we were abruptly informed to clear our room by 10:00 am and comeback early from our last game drive. We were told this is camp policy. It is also camp policy to restrict sundowners until the last night!!
On a positive note our guide was very good and we had some excellent opportunities bird watching. In addition the Elephant interactions and sightings were excellent and the best we have ever experienced in 12 years of travelling to Africa."
The hosts based on our experience do not engage with the guests other that on a superficial level. On our last night when we were enjoying supper we were abruptly informed to clear our room by 10:00 am and comeback early from our last game drive. We were told this is camp policy. It is also camp policy to restrict sundowners until the last night!!
On a positive note our guide was very good and we had some excellent opportunities bird watching. In addition the Elephant interactions and sightings were excellent and the best we have ever experienced in 12 years of travelling to Africa."
Average
Experience Report
Overall Rating:
Average
Location
Excellent
Service
Average
Activities
Good
Rooms
Good
Food
Good
Facilities
Average
Sightings report
Buffalo
4 sightings
Elephant
4 sightings
Giraffe
4 sightings
Hippo
4 sightings
Spotted Hyena
4 sightings
Wildebeest
4 sightings
Zebra
4 sightings
My May 2016 trip
South Africa between 11 May 2016 and 27 May 2016
"This is a third trip to the Kgalagadi and by far our best trip. The night before our arrival was preceded by a thunderstorm and torrential rain while resulted in a wonderful array.of desert blooms for the first 8/10 days. We were also fortunate to have several Leopard and Cheetah sightings and Lions every day!
Giraffes were very numerous as were the opportunities for bird watching.
Assuming we return May is a great month to visit the park and the Wilderness camps remain very good value and provide a great experience."
Giraffes were very numerous as were the opportunities for bird watching.
Assuming we return May is a great month to visit the park and the Wilderness camps remain very good value and provide a great experience."
Arranged By Tracy Lederer
Le Must River Residence
"Le Must River Residence review"
1 night
Arrived
12 May 2016
"We have stayed at Le Must on prior trips and it remains a great choice for a overnight stop over."
Excellent
Experience Report
Overall Rating:
Excellent
Location
Excellent
Service
Good
Rooms
Good
Food
Good
Kielie Krankie Wilderness Camp
"Kielie Krankie Wilderness Camp review"
4 nights
Arrived
13 May 2016
"We stayed for 4 nights and this camp remains one of our favourite camps. Great location ."
Excellent
Experience Report
Overall Rating:
Excellent
Location
Excellent
Service
Good
Rooms
Good
Grootkolk Wilderness Camp
"Grootkolk Wilderness Camp review"
2 nights
Arrived
17 May 2016
"We enjoyed our stay and this area is not rich in game but that said we had a very enjoyable lion sighting !"
Excellent
Experience Report
Overall Rating:
Excellent
Location
Excellent
Service
Good
Rooms
Good
Bitterpan Wilderness Camp
"Bitterpan Wilderness Camp review"
1 night
Arrived
19 May 2016
"A good camp for one night and the road into the camp is very enjoyable as is the road to Mata Mata.
We were also fortunate to have a sighting on the salt pan of two male lions prior to sunset."
We were also fortunate to have a sighting on the salt pan of two male lions prior to sunset."
Excellent
Experience Report
Overall Rating:
Excellent
Location
Good
Service
Good
Rooms
Average
Kalahari Tented Camp
"Kalahari Tented Camp review"
5 nights
Arrived
20 May 2016
"We have stayed at the camp on prior trips and it remains a favourite. Many sleepless nights courtesy of two resident male lions!
Also have some amazing leopard sighings and also cheetah."
Also have some amazing leopard sighings and also cheetah."
Excellent
Le Must River Residence
"Le Must River Residence review"
1 night
Arrived
25 May 2016
"See previous comments [Ed: see below]"
Excellent
Experience Report
Overall Rating:
Excellent
Location
Excellent
Service
Good
Rooms
Excellent
Aug/Sept 2014 - Kgalagadi & Fish Canyon
South Africa and 1 other country between 21 Aug 2014 and 10 Sep 2014
"When we booked the trip we had already made our own arrangements for international flights and for 6 nights in three wilderness camps ( Kieliekrankie; Kalahari Tented; Bitterpan) in the Kgalagadi NP. All of the camps offer a great experience but on reflection one night at Bitterpan would be sufficient. Also worth noting that the drive to the camp has one or two dune challenges!
This was our second visit to the park and we thoroughly enjoyed our 12 nights with some great game viewing interspersed with some very quite days!
If in the region the Fish Canyon is well worth a visit for 2/3 nights. We were also very fortunate to arrive back in Springbok to witness the flowers which again was highly enjoyable.
Overall a great experience."
This was our second visit to the park and we thoroughly enjoyed our 12 nights with some great game viewing interspersed with some very quite days!
If in the region the Fish Canyon is well worth a visit for 2/3 nights. We were also very fortunate to arrive back in Springbok to witness the flowers which again was highly enjoyable.
Overall a great experience."
Arranged By Tracy Lederer
Le Must River Residence
"Le Must River Residence review"
1 night
Arrived
21 Aug 2014
"Great value for money and very friendly staff. They also offer the option of an evening supper service.
Good simple food well prepared and reasonably priced."
Good simple food well prepared and reasonably priced."
Excellent
Experience Report
Overall Rating:
Excellent
Location
Excellent
Service
Excellent
Facilities
Good
Rooms
Good
Food
Good
Ta Shebube Polentswa
"Ta Shebube Polentswa review"
3 nights
Arrived
28 Aug 2014
"After 6 nights in various Wilderness camps we enjoyed our 3 nights of luxury and very good service. We were the only guests and all the staff were very welcoming and friendly without being overwhelming.
We did not book any activities but the guide (KT) offered to accompany us on a morning drive which was very enjoyable and also an opportunity to listen to some great stories! We also observed some hyena cubs and witnessed the return to the den of the adults which all made for a great morning drive. On our last full day 3 young Lions passed through the camp and we were very fortunate to follow them on a 4x4 track for a few miles.
Worth noting that the bird hide is still under construction and we visited the weather was very cold and the resultant outdoor shower invigorating! It might also be helpful to put a sign at the start of the 4x4 track indicating the direction of the camp. That said there are not to many other options!"
We did not book any activities but the guide (KT) offered to accompany us on a morning drive which was very enjoyable and also an opportunity to listen to some great stories! We also observed some hyena cubs and witnessed the return to the den of the adults which all made for a great morning drive. On our last full day 3 young Lions passed through the camp and we were very fortunate to follow them on a 4x4 track for a few miles.
Worth noting that the bird hide is still under construction and we visited the weather was very cold and the resultant outdoor shower invigorating! It might also be helpful to put a sign at the start of the 4x4 track indicating the direction of the camp. That said there are not to many other options!"
Excellent
Experience Report
Overall Rating:
Excellent
Location
Excellent
Service
Excellent
Rooms
Excellent
Food
Good
Gharagab Wilderness Camp
"Gharagab Wilderness Camp review"
2 nights
Arrived
31 Aug 2014
"we stayed for 2 nights and opted to have a lazy day in camp rather than do a long circular drive. The camp has a observation tower and a watering hole.
The topography in this section of the park is attractive and in itself makes the visit worthwhile."
The topography in this section of the park is attractive and in itself makes the visit worthwhile."
Good
Experience Report
Overall Rating:
Good
Location
Good
Facilities
Good
Rooms
Good
Mata Mata Rest Camp
"Mata Mata Rest Camp review"
1 night
Arrived
2 Sep 2014
"The camp is ok for one night and for us was a stop over on route to Namibia.
The riverside lodges are a better option for anyone choosing to make Mata Mata a base for a few nights."
The riverside lodges are a better option for anyone choosing to make Mata Mata a base for a few nights."
Average
Experience Report
Overall Rating:
Average
Location
Excellent
Facilities
Good
Rooms
Average
Central Lodge
"Central Lodge review"
1 night
Arrived
3 Sep 2014
"This lodge requires a make over but we suspect offers the best option for a one night stop over."
Average
Experience Report
Overall Rating:
Average
Location
Good
Service
Average
Facilities
Average
Rooms
Average
Food
Average
Canyon Lodge
"Canyon Lodge review"
3 nights
Arrived
4 Sep 2014
"A very good base to explore the canyon and also to relax and enjoy the sunshine and pool.
The service overall was good and the buffet supper offering was adequate."
The service overall was good and the buffet supper offering was adequate."
Good
Experience Report
Overall Rating:
Good
Location
Excellent
Service
Good
Facilities
Good
Rooms
Good
Food
Good
Annie's Cottage
"Annie's Cottage review"
2 nights
Arrived
7 Sep 2014
"We stayed for two nights and Annie's cottage offers a good option as a base to explore the area and enjoy the flowers!"
Good
Experience Report
Overall Rating:
Good
Location
Good
Food
Good
Rooms
Good
Facilities
Good
Le Must River Residence
"Le Must River Residence review"
1 night
Arrived
9 Sep 2014
"See Prior comments [ Ed: see below. ]"
Excellent
Experience Report
Overall Rating:
Excellent
Location
Excellent
Service
Good
Facilities
Good
Rooms
Good
Food
Good
Highly Enjoyable
Zambia between 29 Sep 2013 and 14 Oct 2013
"Zambia is a great country to visit and offers a very diverse and great safari experience. The Luangwa valley is a superb park but beware Tsetse flies! We last visited the Lower Zambezi in 2007 and stayed outside the park and did not enjoy the experience so it was great to return and stay at two great camps inside the park.
Old Mondora, Nsefu amd Tafika are all great places to visit."
Old Mondora, Nsefu amd Tafika are all great places to visit."
Arranged By Claire Scott
Tena Tena
"A great start to our safari"
3 nights
Arrived
30 Sep 2013
"Overall our experience of Tena Tena was very good. We were very fortunate that a local Lion pride had killed a hippo which effectively meant that for the next few days we could experience observing lions, vultures and finally hyenas feeding on the carcass.
The camp sits in a great location and it was an added bonus that prior to the rains it was very easy to cross the Luangwa river."
The camp sits in a great location and it was an added bonus that prior to the rains it was very easy to cross the Luangwa river."
Good
Experience Report
Overall Rating:
Good
Location
Good
Service
Good
Activities
Good
Rooms
Good
Food
Good
Facilities
Good
Nsefu
"Superb location"
2 nights
Arrived
3 Oct 2013
"If we return to Zambia we would revisit Nsefu which provided us with an overall great experience. The location is stunning and we suspect it would be a great camp to visit in early season. Similarly, to Tena Tena we were very fortunate in observing numerous Lions & leopards besides Elephant and numerous birds.
Our only slightly negative comment is the feeling that on some drives we did too much driving and were taken to the salt pans without any prior discussion on options for the drive. Our preference, if asked would have been to spend more time in the local Nsefu area. That said on our morning transfer drive we took time over tracking "signs of the wild" which was great."
Our only slightly negative comment is the feeling that on some drives we did too much driving and were taken to the salt pans without any prior discussion on options for the drive. Our preference, if asked would have been to spend more time in the local Nsefu area. That said on our morning transfer drive we took time over tracking "signs of the wild" which was great."
Good
Experience Report
Overall Rating:
Good
Location
Excellent
Service
Good
Activities
Good
Rooms
Excellent
Food
Good
Facilities
Excellent
Tafika
"Great family, private camp."
4 nights
Arrived
5 Oct 2013
"We last visited Tafika in 2007 and have also visited the three walking camps. Pleased to say the standards are still very high, particularly the catering which is second to none!
It was great to see wild dogs on three occasions and spend time observing behaviour amongst the pack.
since our last visit a number of guides have moved on or been re-assigned to the walking camps and it was good to see new faces and share their perspectives on flora and fauna although we missed the experience of the other guides."
It was great to see wild dogs on three occasions and spend time observing behaviour amongst the pack.
since our last visit a number of guides have moved on or been re-assigned to the walking camps and it was good to see new faces and share their perspectives on flora and fauna although we missed the experience of the other guides."
Good
Experience Report
Overall Rating:
Good
Location
Good
Service
Excellent
Activities
Excellent
Rooms
Excellent
Food
Excellent
Facilities
Excellent
Chiawa Camp
"Chiawa offers luxury in the bush!"
3 nights
Arrived
9 Oct 2013
"Chiawa occupies a great location and overall the standards are very high. It is luxurious and is a great place to stay for two or three nights and the guiding is to a very good standard.
A great aspect of the Lower Zambezi is the opportunity to spend time on the river and adopt a leisurely pace to observing the birds and animals. The canoe trip is a wonderful experience.
Not something to dwell on but the camp sometimes felt "over managed" meaning that it was not always clear what roles the management were trying to fulfil!"
A great aspect of the Lower Zambezi is the opportunity to spend time on the river and adopt a leisurely pace to observing the birds and animals. The canoe trip is a wonderful experience.
Not something to dwell on but the camp sometimes felt "over managed" meaning that it was not always clear what roles the management were trying to fulfil!"
Good
Experience Report
Overall Rating:
Good
Location
Excellent
Service
Good
Activities
Excellent
Rooms
Excellent
Food
Good
Facilities
Excellent
Old Mondoro Bushcamp
"A great camp"
2 nights
Arrived
12 Oct 2013
"Our only disappointment was we only stayed two nights! If we return to Zambia we will definitely revisit this camp. Compared to Chiawa this is a relatively simple bush camp but for us a great experience with high standards.
Similar to Chiawa the canoe trip is a fantastic experience and not to be missed!
The other great advantage of Old Mondora is that you are able to experience a more open landscape which some stunning woodlands.
We were also fortunate to see three leopards in the late afternoon (two in one tree and one scavenging below ) with a kill prior to sunset.
Also experienced one of our best moments when during our last dinner elephants crossed the river in front of us and glided silently on by as we dined, perfect !"
Similar to Chiawa the canoe trip is a fantastic experience and not to be missed!
The other great advantage of Old Mondora is that you are able to experience a more open landscape which some stunning woodlands.
We were also fortunate to see three leopards in the late afternoon (two in one tree and one scavenging below ) with a kill prior to sunset.
Also experienced one of our best moments when during our last dinner elephants crossed the river in front of us and glided silently on by as we dined, perfect !"
Excellent
Experience Report
Overall Rating:
Excellent
Location
Excellent
Service
Excellent
Activities
Excellent
Rooms
Excellent
Food
Excellent
Facilities
Excellent
More than met expectation!
Tanzania between 13 Oct 2012 and 26 Oct 2012
"Would happily revisit at some point in the future."
Arranged By Elizabeth Chapman
Impala Camp
"Great Location & Expert Guiding"
3 nights
Arrived
14 Oct 2012
"Enjoyed having our own vehicle and same guide and driver for the three nights.
Management and staff both friendly and attentive. Should make a feature of Andreas' passion and knowledge of astronomy as we only found out on the last night and wished we had found out earlier.
The one let down was when food arrived at the table in the evenings it was lukewarm/cold."
Management and staff both friendly and attentive. Should make a feature of Andreas' passion and knowledge of astronomy as we only found out on the last night and wished we had found out earlier.
The one let down was when food arrived at the table in the evenings it was lukewarm/cold."
Good
Experience Report
Overall Rating:
Good
Location
Excellent
Service
Good
Activities
Good
Rooms
Good
Food
Good
Facilities
Good
Kwihala Camp
"Camping in style!"
3 nights
Arrived
17 Oct 2012
"Expert guiding which was tailored to suit our interest.
During our welcome upon arrival the camp options were discussed which we found a little confusing and disliked the push towards night drives and guided walks which were at an extra cost. That said we enjoyed our stay and would return to Kwihala."
During our welcome upon arrival the camp options were discussed which we found a little confusing and disliked the push towards night drives and guided walks which were at an extra cost. That said we enjoyed our stay and would return to Kwihala."
Good
Experience Report
Overall Rating:
Good
Location
Excellent
Service
Good
Activities
Good
Rooms
Good
Food
Good
Facilities
Good
Beho Beho
"Simply the best."
5 nights
Arrived
20 Oct 2012
"The best camp we have stayed in Africa.
The attention to detail in making our stay as pleasurable as possible cannot be faulted. We were made to feel part of a family as opposed to paying guests. We will return!"
The attention to detail in making our stay as pleasurable as possible cannot be faulted. We were made to feel part of a family as opposed to paying guests. We will return!"
Excellent
Experience Report
Overall Rating:
Excellent
Location
Excellent
Service
Excellent
Activities
Excellent
Rooms
Excellent
Food
Excellent
Facilities
Excellent
Southern Sun Dar
"Good for a overnight stop."
1 night
Arrived
25 Oct 2012
"Good for a overnight stop prior to flying home"
Good
Experience Report
Overall Rating:
Good
Location
Good
Service
Good
Facilities
Good
Rooms
Good
Food
Good
Friendly staff and good service."