Debating on African safari - best tour operators?
#1
Original Poster
Join Date: Oct 2012
Location: NW Iowa
Programs: Hilton Gold, Marriott Gold Elite, Hyatt Explorist, IHG Platinum Elite, Delta Silver Medallion
Posts: 378
Debating on African safari - best tour operators?
I’m debating on doing an African safari next year, trying to do some preliminary research on the best tour operators. I’ve sort of narrowed it down to Abercrombie & Kent or Tauck. I’ve heard Micato is quite good but it’s about double the price of the other two and it doesn’t seem to provide any more value.
Does anyone have opinions or first hand experience with taking A&K or Tauck? It seems the prices of both companies are quite comparable so really boils down to the best experience, guides, and accommodation.
Does anyone have opinions or first hand experience with taking A&K or Tauck? It seems the prices of both companies are quite comparable so really boils down to the best experience, guides, and accommodation.
#4
Join Date: Mar 2023
Location: Monserate Winery
Programs: QR Platinum, Lifetime PAN AM Clipper Club
Posts: 113
Africa is a big place. Depends on what countries you are going to, what you want to see and how you want to do the safari- luxury camps/lodges, canoeing, camping, gameviewers, or walking. I skipped over many other fun things. A few I recommend you contact independent operators. Then there are guides that will take you to specific parts of a country(s) like John Stevens. There are a tour operators that have people out every season like Craig Beal of Travel Beyond that know the the parks, camps and what you will see during the seasons. The most important thing you must do in making a decision is talk to a few of the above, build up a rapport, and not let anyone tell you what you will like but why it will fit what you like. So be prepared to talk about what you enjoy to help inform them. Don't make quick decisions.