The Big 5, Trip Enhancements And Lodges Beyond Our Wildest Dreams

Africa Dream Safaris provided my family with the best vacation possible. From the very beginning, Dawn went above and beyond on planning, not overlooking any detail. From the minute we landed in Kilimanjaro, everything was handled for us. From the pickup at the airport to the day to day traveling around Tanzania, everyone was friendly and everything went according to plan.


Guide Emmanuel and Family

We were traveling as a family of 4 on a private safari with our own guide and vehicle. Our guide, Emmanuel, was absolutely perfect. There was no question he couldn’t answer, no animal that went unseen, no detail overlooked. Each staff member we interacted with at our lodges along the way were so knowledgeable and accommodating.

The Big 5 – Our trip began in Arusha, followed by Lake Manyara, Ngorongoro Crater and finally the Serengeti. By the time we left the crater, we had already seen the Big 5. It was unbelievable how close Emmanuel got us to the animals, and even more amazing how much knowledge he had of the land and animal habits. Not to mention each of our lodges were incredible.


Lion Family


Elephant Family


Buffalo


Black Rhino


Leopard

Balloon Safari – Watching the sunrise as you fly in a hot air balloon over the Serengeti is a safari experience unlike any other. Watching the animals in their natural habitat without them knowing you are there is an opportunity worth taking.

Not only will you see animals, but the scenery is incredible. Flying overhead of a giraffe is something you would never be able to do without this balloon safari. The pilots are knowledgeable and the post champagne toast and breakfast is worth it.


Balloon Safari and Pilot


Balloon Flight

Village Cultural Tour – We visited a Maasai village in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. This is a part of the safari that may not be top of mind, but we highly recommend adding to your itinerary. It only requires 1-2 hours of time and is a very educational and historic aspect of the safari. We were greeted by the chief of the village and took part in the traditional dance.

We also visited the school and interacted with the children in the village. It was an extra special experience since our guide is part of the Maasai tribe and really made it a priority to ensure we had the best experience possible, whether it was by communicating in the native language or giving us a rundown on what to expect when we arrived.


Maasai Chief and Family


Maasai Village School

Accommodations/Customer Service/Rwanda Gorilla Trek:
If the attention to detail for our safari wasn’t enough, ADS took it upon themselves to set us up with a company in Rwanda to help the transition into the second part of our trip run smoothly. ADS had no direct involvement with the Gorilla Trek portion of the trip in Rwanda, but they still connected us with the company that would handle it.

If you are looking for a company to assist in your travel plans to Africa, look no further. Africa Dream Safaris will be your best friend from the earliest stages of planning, all the way through the end of your trip. You will never be alone in the process and the knowledge and personal experience that you get from the staff at ADS is unmatchable.

Luke and Jean B. and Family
St. Louis, Missouri
Safari Dates: June 10, 2017 to June 19, 2017

Trip Itinerary:
6/10/17: Kilimanjaro/Arusha – Mount Meru Resort
6/11/17 – 6/12/17: Arusha/Lake Manayara/Ngorongoro Crater – Ngoro Serena Lodge
6/13/17 – 6/14/17: South Serengeti/Southwest Serengeti – Mbuzi Mawe Tented Lodge
6/15/17 – 6/16/17: Central Serengeti/West Serengeti – Mbalgeti Tented Lodge
6/17/17 – 6/19/17: Rwanda Gorilla Trek – Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge

    1. I viewed your comments. Thank you, for sharing. I have never been to Africa but want to do a 8-9 photo trip. Would you share any information,, such as pricing time spent extra costs. How did you pick out this safari what about the guides etc. Thank you verky much

  1. I would like to book my family vacation for 6/5/19 to 6/11/19. I’m interested in a tour.

  2. Would like a quote on a tour like above. Dont need 5 star accomodations but would like an ensuitte bathroom. Tented platform style fine.Would like food included and transfers to airports,: KIliminjaro or Nairobi.
    Thanks

  3. Hi….We are located in St. Louis and are looking to book a trip to Africa in 2021.Am really impressed with ADS so far..A couple questions…..If you had to do it again….what would you change/? More time in a certain area?..change lodging etc??..I know the gorilla trekking is quite expensive……could you possibly estimate total cost per person without airfare??? around $15,000??..Do you feel the gorilla trekking was worth the money?
    What airlines did you find work best out of St. Louis?

    Would you suggest now to take a longer trip? or did you have ample time with how yours was planned..THANK YOU ….Greg Malick