Africa: Reviews from our travellers

"The initial delay [Ed: their flight to Namibia] at the beginning of the holiday was unfortunate as we did want to spend some time in Windhoek but that was the only problem we encountered.

Strange though, was the fact that the highlight of our trip to Etosha was perhaps a slight disappointment, and that other areas not expected to be as good, actually exceeded our expectations. The stay at Desert Homestead and the balloon ride were great. Swakopmund and the Skeleton Coast had a totally different atmosphere. I'm so glad that we entered the Skeleton Coast Park. Its seems a barren forsaken area but the great waves pounding onto the shore and the mists rolling in gave it such a dramatic feel. Absolutley wonderful.

Damaraland was attractive but we didn't see many animals. I believe the area has been heavily poached up till quite recently and the Rhino Conservation is doing well now and other animals are increasing in numbers also.

We saw loads of animals at Etosha but didn't expect quite so many people. There is a speed limit to the roads around the park but we saw very few people adhere to it. Especially at the mad rush to get back to your camp before they closed the gates. There were birds and smaller animals run over because people either couldn't stop or couldn't see them in time. There were also instances at waterholes when people in 4 wheel drive vehicles decided to leave the ample veiwing areas around the waterholes to get closer to the animals for better filming. This was dangerous and very inconsiderate to the animals. We just wish that this area could be policed to stop this unthoughtful behaviour.

Erongo exceeded our expectations, although we were already looking forward to seeing it. The walking was very good and the birdlife beautiful. Personally if I had gone there first I probably would not have moved on.

I have no suggestions to help you improve your service, but must say that it was good not to be pressured as some agents do on a daily basis and it was very thoughtful of you to send a map with the suggested route to take. There were lots of little details that put your service above other agents and I would have no hesitation in recommending you to anybody. Thank you all." Read full review: 16 nights in Africa; 11 on a Namibia trip

"What a trip! For my dad it was a one off.

I had hoped it would be a trip full of memories but it exceeded all expectation - thank you!" Read full review: 11 nights in Africa; 9 on a Zambia safari

"Overall, a fantastic holiday. We probably could have done with one or two days less in South Luangwa. The game was not that different between Nkwali and Nsefu. It may have been better to go to the Lower Zambezi e.g. Sausage Tree Camp for a very different experience.

Having said that, Nkwali and Nsefu were great, and we saw some fabulous wildlife. Particularly a number of leopard sightings at night and during the day - something we hadn't managed to see in Tanzania last year.

The Zambian people are amazing. So friendly even thought many of them are very, very poor. Everyone waved at us, everywhere we went, whether they were very old or very young.

I found Expert Africa very helpful and got good advice from Chris when I originally was planning the holiday.

One suggestion is to name a back-up when the lead contact is going to be aware. I think this would be a nice courtsey. On a few occasions, I called to speak to Anna. She was away and it would have been nice to know who was providing support in her absence." Read full review: 10 nights in Africa; 10 on a Zambia safari

"We found the trip to be very interesting with lots to learn and find.

Namibian peoplewe met are a delight to talk to and be with. They are proud of their country and are very knowledgeable. They are keen to learn and are most welcoming and helpful. There is a lot to see and the accommodations are excellent. We have now seen all the big five game and were thrilled to see game at close quarters.

Distances are long and tiring, as are the gravel roads. Careful consideration of vehicle to use is important and we feel 4x4's are essential for peace of mind. Organisation of the trip was generally very good and we enjoyed the experience." Read full review: 25 nights in Africa; 22 on a Namibia trip

"Absolutely fine. As we'd been spending time in SouthAfrica before going up to Botswana and had had a very good time already, the Okavango trip rounded our holiday off wonderfully.

At 10.30 am on Saturday morning we were beside a pack of hyenas dismembering the remains of a zebra and at 6.30 on Sunday morning we were in terminal One at Heathrow still feeling slightly awed.

Can't do much better than that." Read full review: 5 nights in Africa; 5 on a Botswana safari

"Simply the best trip ever, can't wait to return" Read full review: 11 nights in Africa; 5 on a Botswana safari

"Leaving Air Botswana aside, the whole trip from the organisation by Expert Africa to the accommodation was excellant.

From the moment of booking Maruska kept us informed of every detail of the trip and even when two flight connections went wrong made every effort to sort things out from the other side of the world.

It shows how good the holiday was that we had one of the best holidays ever.

Congratulations, fantastic suggestions for the trip." Read full review: 11 nights in Africa; 5 on a Botswana safari

"We want to thank you very much for organising our honeymoon.

The locations you have choose were definitively what we wanted. We were very pleased and had a gorgeous time in Africa!

What a fantastic holiday! Superb accomodation, delicious food and, most notably, a very warm welcome and great African hospitality everywhere we stayed.

Thanks to all at Expert Africa for co-ordinating such an amazing holiday for us and for your patience with our ever-changing itinerary!" Read full review: 12 nights in Africa; 8 on a Zanzibar holiday

"Exceeded our expectations!" Read full review: 21 nights in Africa; 17 on a Namibia trip

"The overall trip was fantastic.

I have travelled to Africa previously but this was the first time for my friend.

The South Luangwa River Lodge was a great option for someone visiting for the first time." Read full review: 7 nights in Africa; 7 on a Zambia safari