21 independent reviews for Ten day wildlife safari, South Africa
Reviews for Ten day wildlife safari, South Africa
Clare Hopkinson review 16 Oct 2023
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
Seeing all the big 5 and the African wild dogs.2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
Fantastic company well organised and a truly fantastic experience.Amanda Miller review 20 Sep 2023
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
As the vehicle turned a corner on our first morning game drive and the river came into view with at least 10 hippos heads visible, it was magical.2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Don't take too many clothes!3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
We absolutely loved it and would do it again in a heartbeat.Carol Willkins review 24 Feb 2023
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
Amazing opportunities to see wildlife (Big 5 and lots more!) and learn from knowledgeable guides. Staying in small lodges allowed us to get lots of personal attention and make connections with the wonderful people who work in the reserves.2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Plan to spend enough time to enjoy a range of experiences - depending on the time of year, a few days may be rainy and you might see more animals some days and fewer animals the next time, but if you're patient and willing to be flexible, and you have enough time, you'll enjoy your time in the bush. We were glad we brought a small solar-powered light we could use during load-shedding. Some lodges may have limited back-up power supply.3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes! Each lodge operated in ways that seemed sensitive to environmental impacts and committed to conservation. The lodges provide job opportunities for local workers and tourism helps to fund important anti-poaching efforts.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
Fantastic - it was a once-in-a-lifetime adventure for us and we'll always remember this!Debs Bowness review 30 Oct 2022
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
Super Saturday! Although had been on safari 6 days I'd still not seen a leopard. On the early morning game drive we came across one up in a tree, then a short while later another by the side of the road - both wonderful to see. Then on the afternoon game drive we saw wild dogs chase another leopard up a tree while they hung around underneath ready to chase the leopard off their territory. On the way back to the lodge our guide saw a giraffe in labour and a few minutes later we saw a baby be born, a very rare sight to be seen. We went a different route back to avoid distressing the new mother and came across a large herd of elephants with some babies amongst them. A protective elephant then started to follow us rather speedily so we zoomed off quickly. Such a wonderful day to remember!2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
You don't need as many clothes as you think you will! Laundry is provided in most places if needed. It was too hot to wear trousers so none were worn. You do need a hat for the daytime and a fleece for the early morning drives but they provide blankets in the landcover so shorts are ok. I didn't use my binoculars once as was taking photos. They provide insect spray, shower gel, shampoo and conditioner in all the places so less to carry in the suitcase.3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Definitely4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
Wonderful! Possibly one lodge too many (for me) as it was 12 nights and stayed in 4 lodges and I felt on the go all the time - 3 at Rukiya, 2 at Raptor Retreat, 3 at Nzumba, 2 at Water Buck and 2 more back at Rukiya. The perfect (for me) would have been missing out Raptor Retreat with 3 Rukiya, 4 Nzumba, 3 Water Buck and 2 Rukiya so not as much moving around. I hasten to add though it was essential to move around as the lodges were in different private reserves and all had different but equally wonderful qualities about them. 5 stars all the way!Ajia-Moon Flynn-Pittar review 22 Jul 2022
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
We had an incredible experience on safari in South Africa. We had very knowledgeable guides and were able to get amazing close-up experiences with some awesome wildlife! The staff at all the camps we stayed at were friendly, and welcoming and wonderful- with Rukiya Lodge standing out as the most inviting place I have stayed at.2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Be prepared to be pampered, don't forget your sunscreen! I always felt safe and looked after whilst on safari.3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
It was great to be given a presentation on how the tour operator helps leopard research- we were able to set a camera trap and review the photos which was awesome. All of the lodges we stayed at had encouragement to utilise electricity and water efficiently.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
I had a fantastic time, and would recommend it to anyone!Tonya Marx review 25 Sep 2021
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
Being up close in the bush with the lions and the elephants! It was like being in a National Geographic film! The deliciously prepared meals were a close second!2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
September is a great month to visit... very few bugs, gorgeous weather, and the animal viewing is plentiful! Definitely bring layers and sunscreen. No need for toiletries like shampoo, soap... all the lodges have them. DO bring an extra carry on because you'll need it for all of your souvenirs! Binoculars are a must, too. Wheeled duffel is the way to go for luggage.3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes! The entire staff from driver to ranger to chef-- they were all locals employed by locals. Tourism is their main economy. Tip them well-- business is slow but their care, service, and attention was top notch. Each lodge was eco conscious, especially about water use, and our food was always locally sourced, and delicious. They were very conscientious about making sure the animals never felt chased or stressed by our presence.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
Absolutely fantastic! Trip of a lifetime! Saw the Big 5 and then some! Beautiful accommodations, wonderful staff, and unrivalled animal viewing!Dave Coustick review 23 Sep 2019
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
So many close viewings of lions, leopards, rhinos and without lots of other vehicles (in many cases not other vehicles).2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes, all of these and particularly conservation4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
Superb - definitely the best safari I've done.Carol Koehli review 9 May 2019
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
Seeing a mother leopard and her cub - the cub went up the tree to eat the impala 'stored' there, and then they played and groomed until walking off into the sunset! It was amazing to witness. We saw all the wildlife, and more, including birds, that we could have hoped to see. The trackers at were incredible.2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Just follow the instructions provided by Carol and her team, and everything is taken care of! Even though we were in the Outer Kruger in March at the end of the wet season (and there was therefore a lot of vegetation) we saw plentiful wildlife. The mornings can be chilly initially - I used a light down jacket. Everywhere provided insect repellent. The food is delicious!3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes. The tour operator support leopard conservation, and all the lodges employ local staff wherever possible. Most are trying to use solar power and reusable water bottles. The food and drink provided is locally sourced wherever possible.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
Fantastic and memorable. It was our first safari, and staying in 3 different types of accommodation on 3 different reserves was a great way to sample the South African safari experience. All the staff we encountered were excellent, and they rated the tour operator extremely highly. I would highly recommend the trip..Denise Brooks review 22 Oct 2018
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
There wasn’t one memorable part as each place was so different it is impossible to choose one time or place. However, being held up for about half an hour by elephants at. very close quarters; the leopard sleeping next to a fresh kill; the lion ant; the pride of lions sleeping off their meal; the vultures on a kill; the wild dogs; the hyena cubs playing near the jeep and then falling asleep in front of it all spring immediately to mind. The list is too long to continue2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Even if you are really tired try to join in with all walks, drives etc. Once up and about in the morning air you soon wake up and you never know what you might see. Don’t be disappointed if you don’t see big mammals every time. There’s always something to see and the small creatures can be very exciting and unusual. Have an open mind and you won’t be disappointed.3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Definitely supported conservation. The behind the scenes staff were local and one of our guides was from a local village. The guides were all very careful not to impact on the environment and animal habitat. Lodge staff are working to lessen the impact of such things as plastic on the environment.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
This was an excellent and exciting vacation where the staff went the extra mile. They were patient and took time to explain detail. Accommodation and food were of a high standard and every stop different.Sandra Marshall review 7 Jun 2018
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
Coming up close and personal to a pride of 12 lions, seeing 3 different packs of wild dogs, one twice and seeing a breeding herd of elephants from our deck at Ivory Wilderness Lodge walking along the Klaserie River.2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Expect the unexpected, you never know what is just around the corner!3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Overall, yes.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
Truly spectacular.Val Cardwell review 29 Sep 2017
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
Being so close to an amazing variety of wildlife, seeing their behaviour in the wild, and learning a lot from our guides. We were lucky and saw the "big seven", and so much more besides.2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Easy to get laundry done so no need to take too many clothes but you do need some warm layers for early morning game drives at this time of year (September). Remember to take binoculars! There are many photo opportunities, the guides put you in optimum position for getting that perfect shot, take plenty of memory cards. Scarf or something to cover mouth and nose while driving in dusty season.3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes, all the lodges we stayed in supported conservation and provided employment locally. All had policies aimed at benefitting the environment and sourced produce locally. The profits from our tour operator funds a leopard conservation project.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
Excellent. We couldn't have asked for a better experience; the vacation was well planned, all the transfers were smooth, the lodges and game drives offered variety, staff were friendly and professional and we had a lot of fun. We thoroughly recommend our tour operator.Doug Stockdale review 26 Sep 2017
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
Difficult to answer, there were so many, wild dogs in Tangala, elephants round the water hole at Nzimba, lions at a kill, the warm welcome from all the lodges to name but a few.2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Make sure you have spare batteries and storage for your camera! be wary of cheap plug adapters that do not fit S Africa sockets. If you'd like to experience S African culture, then book that independently around the Safari, this trip is all about game viewing which is exactly what I wanted.3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
ExcellentRichard Claydon review 17 Sep 2017
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
There were so many moments! For stand out viewings we loved spending time watching 2 young male lions on the Ruikiya safari, sitting watching the wild- dog pups playing together while the adults were out hunting at Thornybush, Tangala, and then some wonderful leopard encounters at Klaserie thanks to the amazing tracker and guide at Nzumba.2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Warm clothes were recommended and were really needed for the morning game-drives. Take a good camera with zoom, but remember to just sit and watch! Also to be aware that this is vacation which is an adventure and you will be up very early, and on the go for much of the day so you need stamina but it is so invigorating and worth-while.3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
We were made more aware of the benefit to conservation throughout the vacation, particularly the leopard research.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
This is a fantastic safari, the mix of reserves visited gave different experiences. The whole safari experience with the accommodation, game drives, being in the environment, seeing the animals and birds, learning about everything from the guides, hosts and organisers, add up to an amazing vacation.Carolyn Dudley review 16 Sep 2017
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
The whole trip was memorable. Lots of exciting moments seeing lions and elephants really close. Spending a couple of hours with two young male lions close by was very special. All the guides were very knowledgeable and helped us to understand the behaviour of the animals and birds we were seeing.2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Take lots of warm layers for the early morning game drives. It's helpful to have a torch. Don't set out with plans of what you want to see. Appreciate the small stuff.3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes, we could see how the Leopard Conservation project was benefiting from our vacation. We paid local conservation taxes. All our guides demonstrated great understanding and respect for the environment and local people.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
Amazing. We loved the whole experience. It was very well organised. I would definitely recommend this trip.Penny Bulba review 8 Jun 2017
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
Our whole trip was exciting from beginning to end. The three lodges we stayed in were of high quality and very indidual, the staff very friendly, the guiding brilliant and the food excellent. We saw many, many animals and were often the only jeep in sight. Two highlights were the sight of a leopard chased up a tree with 4 wild dogs circling underneath it and sitting by a muddy pool for ages watching 'teenage' and baby elephants playing and rolling in the mud! Oh, and the pride of 5 lions and the male elephant walking by right next to the jeep. The tour operator picked us up from the airport and looked after us along the way regaling us with many stories from the 'bush' as well as how the company started. We have been to Africa and on safari several times and this rates as one of the best together with its conservation credentials.2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
We went at the end of May and it is always much colder than you think it will be especially early morning on an open jeep so pack fleeces and a wind proof jacket as well as hat and gloves. Be relaxed about what animals you may or may not see and enjoy the moment and experience.3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
The vacation operator operates so that the profits support the leopard conservation progamme. It also supports local charities in the area. The lodges employ local people, use local produce, use water from boreholes and not plastic bottles, use recycled materials for building. The tree lodges are all on private reservations abutting Kruger NP. The guides and trackers were very conscientious and concerned about the well being of the animals eg - no more than 2 vehicles at a time at a sighting, no high speed chasing (which you can find on other safaris) etc.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
Brilliant. We had so many special sightings (white and black Rhinos) coupled together with all the kind and friendly staff, the other travelers and, of course, Carol and Will who organised it all for us!!Pete Bullen review 28 Jul 2016
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
One of the most exciting moments came while we were driving side by side observing three hyenas. There was an atmosphere filling howl from another hyena in the distance. The guide said this meant there had been a kill. These three stopped, frozen. We watched as they put their mouths close to the ground. Their returning calls created an eerie howl with an echo and vibration very loud and chilling. Turning 45 degrees, they immediately set off directly towards the call. We had never thought about it being a sight we would want to see, but it was fantastic to observe natural behaviour in the wild. Other memorable moments include. Wild dogs hunting impala. Baby elephants play fighting. A pride of lions on a buffalo kill, while the cubs played with its tail. A pangolin burying itself into a termite mound, Lamping a porcupine in the bush in pitch dark. Tracking a black rhino. Observing herds of elephants, zebra, giraffes and buffalo, hippos, wildebeest and warthogs all at the waterhole, drinking together.2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Wear layers of comfortable clothes that will keep you warm before sunrise and after sunset, but that you can take off as it warms up in the middle of the day. Take hat and gloves too. A camera and binoculars are also useful.3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
We found the vacation benefitted the local economy, conservation projects and was also environmentally friendly.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
This vacation has been a pleasure from morning til night. We enjoyed every minute, from the people we met, organisers, staff and guests alike, and the experiences we shared, the food, and the accommodation. Between two of us we took 16000 photos in 10 days trying to capture every moment, but also felt we had the time to observe the animals in their natural habitat. Its up there as one of our favourite vacations.Ian Lane review 7 Jul 2016
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
So many great moments, difficult to tell. The baby Rhino was very special.2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Sit back, enjoy and learn about the successors and loses in trying to preserve this amazing environment.3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes absolutely. Tourists provide employment. The vacation provider are a non profit organisation who do a great amount of work for Leopard Conservation and by learning about conservation of the African wildlife areas, I can better educate people back in Australia.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
Brilliant from start to finish.Sandy Schuler review 11 Apr 2016
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
Actually, the itinerary incorporated so many highlights that I find it really difficult to pinpoint one favourite experience. I enjoyed everything from staying at small, cosy lodges where I was privileged enough to have in-depth conversations with the owners/managers, to digging into scrumptious home-cooked meals, and learning about different types of mammals, birds, reptiles, insects and plants on game drives and bush walks. All guides and hosts at the lodges were passionate about wildlife and incredibly willing to share their expertise with guests. It was an absolute pleasure to learn from them!2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
The following items will make your safari more enjoyable: • A camera with a good zoom, plenty of memory and a spare battery • Sunscreen, lip balm, sunglasses and a hat • A jacket for the cool morning/night drives • A sense of humour3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Oh yes, definitely! Not only does a portion of the proceeds from the safari go directly to the conservation of leopards and other wildlife, but the lodges at which guests stay also make a concerted effort to minimize environmental impact. This may be done by drawing on alternative energy sources, such as solar power or by designing the whole lodge using responsibly sourced materials, such as reused wood. Equally as important, however, is that every reserve and lodge emphasizes conservation. For this reason, safari guests come away from their vacation with a renewed appreciation for different species of wildlife and a heightened understanding that every plant, insect and animal plays a role in the ecosystem.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
This was an exquisite vacation! I'm already trying to figure out how I can go on another safari.Lena Hughes review 18 Mar 2016
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
Seeing a leopard drinking from a water hole as we were hurrying (within the speed limit!) to try and reach the exit from the Kruger before the gate closed caused us a big dilemma! Naturally we stopped to watch it and risked a fine at the gate which fortunately didn't occur; Coming across a magnificent male lion lying just 25 yards from us whilst ion a night game drive who obliged us by roaring shortly after we stopped to watch him. Hearing a lion roar so close was a truly memorable experience; and encountering a frisky herd of elephants enjoying a mud bath who then came within a few yards of our viewing vehicle.2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Bring a camera and a good pair of binoculars, you will have endless exciting opportunities to use them. Go on a diet before you go - the food it magnificent and very tasty South African fare!! :)3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes, local staff are employed at the lodges in a country where there is high unemployment. Everyone we met was helpful and very friendly. The guides and trackers are very well trained and knowledgeable, and go out of their way to ensure that you get good and safe animal sightings as well as being very informative on the flora and history of the areas. They follow strict guidelines about where they drive to minimise impact on the terrain and animals taking care not to stress the wildlife. For example not shining lamps into the eyes of non nocturnal animals during night drives and avoiding running over little creatures like dung beetles and tortoises. We heard some new born lion cubs meowing in a thicket and the guides immediately imposed a ban on all vehicles visiting that area for several weeks to avoid stressing the mother. The proceeds from our vacation bookings go directly towards supporting leopard conservation at the Black Leopard Camp and it was nice to feel involved in supporting this vital work. Everyone we met, Will and Carol, the guides, the trackers, the researchers and the conservationists are all so passionate about conservation yet at the same time ensuring that you have a great vacation and feel involved.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
Absolutely fantastic! I have been on several safari vacations both self arranged and commercial in the past, but the highly professional, personal, helpful, and friendly service provided by Will and Carol and their team surpasses anything I had previously experienced. They made us feel like family.Trish Russell review 23 Oct 2015
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
Most memorable was the Black Leopard Camp at Thabo Tholo. The animal experiences and friendliness of the staff.2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Do it!3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
Excellent. Will be back. A big thank you to Will & Carol. The staff and owners of the camp and JD at nDzuti.Jan Beaty review 12 Oct 2015
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
Having an elephant drink and shower from my plunge pool, whilst I was sitting 3 metres away.2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Enjoy it, soak up the atmosphere and sit and watch the animals as well as taking pictures.3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Definitely benefited local people - went to visit the school where funds have been used to improve meal prep area as well as pay for a teacher for a year.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
If was a great vacation -great animal sightings, variety of accommodation styles and terrain. It was well organised, friendly and very good for solo travelersHoliday Reviews
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