Since starting to plan our safari in September of 2012, I have read nearly every guest testimonial in the weekly ADS Newsletter. I had a very good idea of what to expect…exemplary personal service from the moment of arrival to departure, superior accommodations, excellent food and a guide with the eyes of an eagle. Without question, ADS employs only superior driver/guides and no matter what guide you are assigned, you can be assured that you are in the very best of hands.

However our guide deserves a special “shout-out.” Arnold was a walking-talking encyclopedia of knowledge! There wasn’t a question we asked that he couldn’t answer in great detail. Not only was he able to educate us about every animal, bird and plant found in the Serengeti and Ngorogoro Crater, he also shared his knowledge on the traditions and customs of the Maasai tribe and the history of Tanzania, starting with colonialism.

Arnold has a genuine and profound respect for the wildlife we encountered, he was always as excited as we were over a sighting. His enthusiasm over spotting far-off game (that to our eyes appeared to be a black speck on the horizon) was contagious. And his driving skills are extraordinary! The roads were often bumpy and muddy but Arnold managed to be the first vehicle to arrive at a sighting of a recent kill, a pride of lions, a leopard in tree or a hunt in progress. He always positioned our vehicle for the very best photo opportunities. We were so close to the game that our simple SLR digital camera with a zoom lens was more than adequate for capturing remarkable photographs.

As for the accommodations, every place we stayed was fabulous. We especially enjoyed the tents at Seronera Sametu Camp and Lake Masek Tented Lodge. Sleeping under the stars in a private luxury tent, listening to birdsong and the nocturnal communication of hippos and lions was an experience that will never be forgotten.

Thank you Dawn, for all of your assistance in planning our safari. It was the trip of a lifetime and we are so happy we chose ADS. A private safari is the ONLY way to experience the magic of the Serengeti. Your company needs to rename itself AADS (Amazing Africa Dream Safaris)!

Sue and Serge B. – Livonia, Michigan
Pat and Harvey T. – Fairview, Tennesee
Safari Dates: April 26, 2014 to May 4, 2014

Final comment: in the spirit of full disclosure, my sister Pat and brother-in-law Harvey were not initially interested in going on safari for a number of reasons (bugs, heat, fear of political unrest). I promised them that it would be a life-altering experience and here is the email that Pat sent me upon their return:

“Sue – both Harvey and I are waxing on about what a wonderful experience we had on Safari. This is without a doubt the best trip we have ever been on. I don’t think you can describe it to others, even with pictures, but I’m glad we have them as a reminder. I am so happy you convinced us to go. Just amazing…in a live-changing kind of way …”

‘Nuf said!!!