South Africa: reviews from our travellers

"Wonderful trip and Expert Africa delivered what they promised. No hiccups or adverse surprises" Read full review: 14 nights in Africa; 4 on a South Africa trip

"The holiday itinerary you put together for us was exactly what we had asked you for. We got to see a tremendous range of scenery - both urban and rural, both coastal and inland - together with a good taste of the natural flora and fauna. The guesthouses and hotels you selected for us were superb (see below)and the travelling distances sensibly achievable whilst allowing us plenty of time to see and enjoy each area.

Our dealings with Expert Africa were an entirely happy and stress free experience - from Claire's advice throughout the planning of the holiday, to Jill's attention on the ground in South Africa.

We will most definitely be recommending you and hope to be able to travel with you again in the future. Well done - a perfect example of excellent customer service in an industry which at times struggles!!

Thank you once again Claire - we hadn't been on holiday for 8 years, so this was a very important break for us and you were instrumental in making it wonderful.

Thank you so much." Read full review: 20 nights in Africa; 7 on a South Africa trip

"We had a great time, only spoiled by the antics of Europcar" Read full review: 8 nights in Africa; 2 on a South Africa trip

"A good trip was put together at short notice.

Generally the style of accomodation used was aimed at relaxed time in hotels rather than a more active agenda. Set dinners were a bit restrictive at most places - both the limited menus and the timings. Food appeared pricey compared with other SA experiences but we have nothing to compare with on this trip.

Two hotels did not have information about local places of interest - Rosenhof Country House, Oudtshorn and Hunters Lodge, Knysna.

Expert Africa's information about finding some hotels was insufficient - we had to research the web to find directions; predeparture information did not include advice about set meal times (which we found restrictive); Predeparture information was fragmented in the "book" provided, and covering letter; there was much more focus on Namibia than South Africa and it was not always clear which information related to which country." Read full review: 14 nights in Africa; 4 on a South Africa trip

"Will be back.

All flights were on time, no baggage lost.

The trip went like clockwork" Read full review: 25 nights in Africa; 8 on a Botswana safari

"We still wish to return for another visit. Everyone was friendly and helpful. We never felt threatened." Read full review: 26 nights in Africa; 12 on a South Africa trip

"This was a very rewarding trip to see so much wild life and the amazing landscape of Namibia. My wife broke her wrist on day 4 at Zebra River but even this hardly detracted from the enjoyment of the holiday. Excellent treatment in Swakomund.

As an experienced owner driver of a 4 x 4 I feel that this is the the type of vehicle needed for most of the terrain encountered. There were occasions where the saloon car did not have the ground clearance or the traction required to negotiate the conditions safely." Read full review: 28 nights in Africa; 19 on a Namibia trip

"This was again a wonderful holiday which has given us so many wonderful experiences. The trip was taken at the right time of year to be able to see the wild flowers, the animals, the whales etc. Everything went according to plan. As amateur geologists we were able to get to places which have interesting rocks and rock formations - not everyone's idea of a good holiday I know. Some of these trips could not have been done without having had a "bakkie" and I would like to suggest that anyone thinking of doing this trip be recommended to hire one rather than a saloon.
The places we stayed had a good level of comfortable and friendly accomodation. Meals were generally good and we have now developed a taste for ostrich steaks as well as wines from the Orange River Region.

I found the literature supplied was very informative, especially the information concerning the border crossing formalities.

I very much appreciated the efficient way Mrs Scott dealt with the mix-up over the car hire when the credit card bill arrived.

The main problem with the holiday -- it wasn't long enough!!" Read full review: 15 nights in Africa; 11 on a South Africa trip

"Wonderful.

Only problem is I daren't hink of going back (at the moment) in case it wasn't as amazing the next time.

I was impressed by Lucy right from the first time I contacted the office at 5.25 one afternoon and I was offering to ring back at a more convenient time, and she just said that it was fine and too important to leave and she would sort out what I wanted straight away." Read full review: 16 nights in Africa; 6 on a Botswana safari

"We had an excellent holiday with excellent accommodation.

We were able to see the wild flowers and go walking and so we are very satisfied. Our friends, Pat and Ian Acton did all the liaison with you at Expert Africa and so we cannot comment on your overall service." Read full review: 25 nights in Africa; 11 on a South Africa trip