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Reviews: Create-Your-Own Tour in South Africa, or 18 other African Countries.

Create-Your-Own Tour in South Africa, or 18 other African Countries.

Tour South Africa when and where you like for only $550 pppd, we give you a standard tour and you can change it before we start and on the run. Get to see more of what you like!

star rating Trip rating 5/5 from 4 reviews
Operator rating 5/5 from 30 reviews
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This Operator Reviews

1.
Client: Janet J. Gross - from Swaziland
Trip: South Africa Safari - Kruger National Park To Durban
Rating: rating 5/5
Comment: The tour operator provided an exceptional custom tour for two of us that met and exceeded all expectations.

Pierre served as our outstanding guide and driver. Right from the pick up at the hotel he was friendly, kind and gracious and we immediately felt like we had made a new friend. Pierre was an excellent guide with extensive breadth of knowledge of flora, fauna, history and culture. He was flexible and made it a point that our needs were met.

Based on observations of interactions with others it is obvious he is deeply respected by the tour industry in South Africa.

I finished this trip with plans for more with safaris with them and I would rate them a 10/10!
2.
Client: Fiona Green - from South Africa
Trip: KwaZulu-Natal Top 5 Game Reserves Lodge Safari
Rating: rating 5/5
Comment: Only high praise can be given to the safari operator, from the booking and arranging with Karen Duval, to the pick up from Bryan van Schaik and his knowledge, attentiveness (as Johanna was not well the first couple of days), to the whole tour, despite bad weather conditions that prevailed that week, unfortunately. All venues were as comfortable as advertised and everyone went out of their way to make this very memorable.

There is no doubt we’d recommend them to anyone coming over to our beautiful country.

Score is 10 without hesitation.
3.
Client: Lynn Morley - from Canada
Trip: Create-Your-Own Tour in South Africa, or 18 other African Countries.
Rating: rating 5/5
Comment: The operator did a great job of planning our 26 days in South Africa, accommodating all our requests.

Their itinerary included a great variety of accommodations, and a comfortable vehicle for the many kilometres from Cape Town to Kruger.

Vaughn, our guide for the entire trip, was interesting and colourful. He went out of his way to make sure that we saw exactly what we wanted, that we were comfortable, and had everything we needed.

Our experience was awesome, enjoying several public and private game park safaris, boat and train rides, and great food. We truly enjoyed the scenery and viewing the wildlife in South Africa, a troubled, yet beautiful country.
4.
Client: Geo Anderson - from United States
Trip: Tour of Cape Town & Surrounding Areas
Rating: rating 5/5
Comment: We were extremely pleased with all aspects of our tour, from initial arrangements through delivering us to the airport for the return trip.

Their selection of activities, lodging, etc. considered and suited our interests and needs very well. Our only regret is that we did not involve them earlier in our planning.

Pierre and Karen are both great people and very trustworthy.
5.
Client: Vastine & Yvette East - from United States
Trip: Cape Town and Kruger National Park
Rating: rating 5/5
Comment: They were the greatest! Just having my husband and I with the tour guide made it so personal... truly worth the investment.

The tour guides Melanie & Mike went out of their way to make us have a vacation of a lifetime. We customized our tour from Johannesburg and Cape Town to see the culture, beauty, and history of each place. Breathtaking..... simply.... fabulous...

We went to to the Timbulvalti on safari and stayed at the Kambaku Lodge where we celebrated our anniversary and Christmas which was SO remarkable, one we shall treasure forever.

We made new friends and plan to do it again with them... all the way.
6.
Client: Leah Vincent - from United States
Trip: KwaZulu-Natal Top 5 Game Reserves Lodge Safari
Rating: rating 5/5
Comment: Our trip was wonderful. They coordinated many exciting activities and arranged beautiful accommodations and delicious meals for us. Our guide was friendly and informative.

We definitely recommend them, especially for people who want a customized itinerary
7.
Client: Karsten and Sydney Eden - from United States
Trip: South Africa Kruger National Park to Cape Town
Rating: rating 5/5
Comment: Book now! Without hesitation, that is our advice to any person who is considering using this tour operator to plan and guide their tour of South Africa.

We have never used a guide before and chose them because they offer private tours and do not combine parties to fill their vehicles. We were extremely satisfied with all aspects of our tour from the planning stages to the choice of accommodations to the guide himself.

We booked the 21 day tour from Johannesburg to Cape Town. Our guide, Pierre, is a knowledgeable and very personable guide who made us feel at home in South Africa from the moment we met him. The choices of game reserves and other stops on the tour were excellent and when we wanted to add or change part of the tour while in route, Pierre did everything he could to accommodate our requests. He even swung through the trees with us when we wanted to do the Tsitskamma Canopy Tour and "suffered" through a full day at the spa with us at the Pongola Game Reserve.

We especially enjoyed spending a day stopping at Zulu villages handing out clothing and soccer balls to the local people, as well as, having the opportunity to purchase old spears and other crafts directly from the Zulus. Our 21 days tour gave us a fantastic overview of the diversity and beauty of South Africa.

As Pierre told us we would be, we are now hooked on Africa. We hope to return soon to travel with them to Zimbabwe, Botswana and Namibia.

We give our highest recommendation and are looking forward to our next tour with them.

Dr. Karsten and Sydney Eden
Anchorage, Alaska, USA
8.
Client: Ivan D - from Australia
Trip: South Africa Kruger National Park to Cape Town
Rating: rating 5/5
Comment: Firstly thanks to your team

We have travelled the world. Forget coach tours. This operator is the best by far.

Pierre and his team provide us with a fantastic holiday and I strongly recommend them to those who want to see the best, with the best at a very reasonable cost.
9.
Client: Susan Osinoff - from United States
Trip: Create-Your-Own Tour in South Africa, or 18 other African Countries.
Rating: rating 5/5
Comment: My husband, my thirteen year old grandson and I just returned from an absolutely glorious exploration of South Africa.

Our trip from the time we landed in Johannesburg and departed from Cape Town was 23 days packed full of adventures. From Soweto to game safaris to Victoria falls on to whale watching and visiting schools and homesteads way back in the bush we were cared for, transported and wined and dined by our guides Pierre, Tony and Mike who had exceptional knowledge and skill. Beside their knowledge, we were constantly amazed at their ability to see and identify birds and animals in the bush or even as we drove along roads at highway speeds.

Our accommodations were always lovely and in ideal locations and settings. We stayed in a 2 bedroom log cottage by the sea, a tented lodge in Kruger National Park, an outstanding guest house on the ocean where we could whale watch from our balconies and an European style mansion in Cape Town. Because all the places were small and intimate we got to spend time with South Africans which certainly enhanced our experience. Meals were a varied experience from in the lodges to interesting but lovely restaurants and even, BBQ's cooked by our wonderful guide, Pierre. Food was plentiful, excellent and we were encouraged to order way more than we could eat. Our grandson loved this as he tried every exotic food on the menu.

Our guides Pierre, Tony and Mike, besides being unbelievably knowledgeable and informative, are wonderful company. One example is the day that Mike, a history expert, drove us to one of the Zulu-British battlefields, sat us in canvass chairs under an African tree and with props reenacted the battle. We were sure that 20,000 Zulu warriors would crest the hill at any moment.

Since I am not the easiest client to deal with as I ask too many questions and want to be involved in all decision making, I can testify to the patience and attention to details that this company provides. Having a 13 year old traveling with you can present other parameters but Pierre and Company were just incredible with our grandson making sure that he was always included, engaged and excited.

I am sure that you can tell that this is an absolute rave review. I cannot wait to travel again with Pierre and company next time to Namibia and Botswana.
10.
Client: Debbie Jones - from United States
Trip: currently unavailable
Rating: rating 5/5
Comment: We returned last week from our first trip to Africa.

I have to say, that after months of anticipation, this trip was everything we expected, and more. I would highly recommend this safari operator for anyone planning a trip to Africa.

Pierre and Mike went out of their way to make sure that each person on the tour was happy and comfortable.

We intended this to be a once-in-a-lifetime trip, but, since we have come home, we have been talking about planning another trip as soon as time and money allow!

The wildlife was amazing, as was the scenery at Victoria Falls. We really could not pick just one favorite thing about the trip, it was all wonderful.
11.
Client: The St. Germain Family - from United States
Trip: Victoria Falls, Kruger & all the way to Cape Town
Rating: rating 5/5
Comment: What a trip!

Just got back from 20 nights in Zimbabwe and South Africa. Pierre couldn't have put together a more perfect itinerary.

Four nights at A'Zambezi Lodge enjoyed the Walk With Lions, Elephant Ride Safari, Helicopter Tour of Victoria Falls, Day Trip to Botswana (Chobie)and had fun at the market. The lodge was beautiful with a friendly staff and excellent food. Returned back to Johannesburg to meet Pierre and head to Greater Kruger with stops such as waterfalls and God's Window. Timbavati reserve was teaming with wildlife and we stayed at Gomo Gomo. Another beautiful lodge with great staff and great food.

Our ranger, Trevor was fantastic at spotting and tracking animals and birds. We go so close to so many different animals it seemed like something out of a wildlife show. Trevor and Pierre's humor made the game drives and meals even more enjoyable. We spent one night in Kruger National Park where we finally spotted the infamous Bushbabies. Yes, they really do exist! Then on to Pongola where we stayed at Mvubu. Beautiful accodomations with world class views. It was here that we caught tiger fish and spotted the rhinos. Great place. Swaziland was a great experience for two nights to see how tribes really live. The entertainment, tour, food and people were again the best.

Sadly, we had to leave our beloved Pierre and fly from Durban to George where we met the other guide Pierre had arranged to show us around the Cape Town area. Mike....what a nice guy! Always working hard to meet our needs and please us. We spent 3 nights in Wilderness at Shinning Waters BB where Ann made sure we were comfortable. Beautiful home with ocean views in each room. Visited National Park, kids went Bungy Jumping, took a little hike and rode the ostriches! Great fun! Last three nights were spent in Cape Town at Blackheath Lodge. John and Antony were wonderful hosts. The home was very nice with good location. We spent our time at the Waterfront, on Table Mountain, Cape Good Hope and touring around the city.

While I was not to sure about booking a trip for my family and my husbands parents and being able to meet everyone's needs, Pierre put me at ease with his many e-mails, phone calls and listening to the endless list of things we wanted to do and see. I could have never put such a wonderful trip together myself. Pierre kept my mother in law fed and happy....a feat in itself, listened to my son's never ending stories and tolerated my daughters simple minded questions like "how did those rocks get there?" and "why is the car driving backwards?"

If you are looking for a tour company who knows their way around South Africa, Pierre will provide the trip of your dreams for a a personalized, helpful and exciting experience
12.
Client: Clive Andrews - from United Kingdom
Trip: KwaZulu-Natal Battlefields & Game Reserves
Rating: rating 5/5
Comment: We had a great couple of days in Kwa-Zulu Natal. We wanted a customised tour to fill three spare days and this safari came up trumps.

Pierre was great, meeting us at Durban and arranging every aspect of the safari and the battle field tour we had wanted to cover on our brief stay in KZN.

We would thouroughly recommend this safari operator. The Guest House, owned by Pierre in Dundee was really comfortable and we were made very welcome by Pierre and his wife Karen - great
13.
Client: Audrey Unger - from United States
Trip: Kruger National Park and Timbavati Safari
Rating: rating 5/5
Comment: Our Safari is sadly finished.

Africa Guide put us in touch with several reputable firms and the operator I chose impressed me from first contact. You know you are going to get personal service when you get a phone call initiating your safari planning rather than just an email. I am a high maintenance travel planner with lots of questions and Pierre not only answered my questions, but encouraged me to keep asking. It was obvious that Pierre knew Africa!

Pierre's next great move was hooking us up with Tony. Tony, where do you begin.... Awesome! Not only was Tony incredibly knowledgeable, he was great fun to hang out with! Tony is very tuned into animal behaviour and found the Big Five for us in two days! He is also gauges an animal's disposition and can determine which animals we can have a closer look at and which need more space. Tony made sure we were safe and that's a big deal! After our incredible safari experience with Tony, I rented a car on my own. The reservation got messed up and Tony went above and beyond and help me straighten out the mess. "Above and beyond" pretty much sums up the experience.

These are my comments, but they feel very inadequate. I can't say it enough. We had a great trip because of Tony and Pierre.

Our group is extremely well travelled and all four of us, without hesitation, have said that our experience has made South Africa our best vacation ever!

We will definitely use this safari operator again and recommend them to our friends.

Thanks for hooking us up.
14.
Client: Phyllis and Bruce Jacobson - from United States
Trip: Kruger National Park and Timbavati Safari
Rating: rating 5/5
Comment: In July 2006 seven members of our family were escorted from Johannesburg to Kruger National Park by Pierre and Tony. We spent six days with this team using two VW vans to provide room to move around and to get good views of the wild life.

Both Pierre and Tony were excellent guides. They arranged for meals and lodging, spotted birds and wildlife long before we did, had some innovative meals that they cooked and were all round good company. For three days we used the VW vans for the game viewing and for two more days we were in Gomo Gomo where they provided Land Rovers just for our group.

Pierre and Tony went along on these trips as well and were helpful in spotting games and birds. We all agreed that they provided us with an interesting learning experience. We recommend them for any future visits.
15.
Client: Paul and Alison Way - from United Kingdom
Trip: KwaZulu-Natal Battlefields & Game Reserves
Rating: rating 5/5
Comment: We have just returned from a most enjoyable holiday in South Africa, a week of which was spent with on safari.

The friendly atmosphere and excellent food that awaited us at their Kamelkop game farm made life very easy for us and nothing was too much trouble for Pierre and his team.

Pierre provided us with a really first class guide for our two days at the Battlefields and he himself proved to be a really good game spotter when we went to a game park as well as being extremely knowledgeable and interesting. Such problems as did arise were dealt with effectively and efficiently, and we always had full confidence in his leadership.

We would be very happy to travel with him again.
16.
Client: Kathy Poly - from France
Trip: South Africa Kruger National Park to Cape Town
Rating: rating 5/5
Comment: I had a dream vacation.

From the time we were picked up at the airport to the time we were (sadly) left at the Jo-burg airport to return to Paris, we were treated with courtesy, warmth and sincere hospitality.

The tour operator anticipated our every wish and made a dream come true for me. I will keep the memories of the Western Cape, it's gardens and exotic plants and flowers; the Guest Houses along the ocean; Kruger Park and it's superb animals; Knysna; Featherbed; Wilderness and much more for many a year to come.

I would love to return one day.

Sincerely,
Kathy Poly
17.
Client: Tom and Scottie Cannon - from United States
Trip: South Africa Kruger National Park to Cape Town
Rating: rating 5/5
Comment: We returned this week from a 21-day tour, which we found out about through your website.

Our experience was very positive. Since we'd never imagined having our own personal guide, we were initially skeptical about how this would work and whether we would like this mode of travel.

Pierre patiently answered dozens of our questions in countless e-mails before we agreed to book with him for a variation--which we worked out together--of his 21-day Kruger to Cape Town Tour. We are convinced we made the right choice.

This tour provided a terrific variety of experiences, accommodations and meals. Pierre is an expert wildlife spotter and a great source of information about animals, plants, area history and culture. He works hard to provide a high level of service for a reasonable price and is tireless in his determination to do whatever possible to see that his clients are having
a good trip. He also maintained the right balance between professionalism and friendliness, and kept a great sense of humor throughout.

Based on our experience the last eight days of our trip, he is equally careful in
selecting the other guides who work with him.

Tom and Scottie Cannon
18.
Client: Trevor & Rachel Middleton - from United Kingdom
Trip: South Africa Safari - Kruger National Park To Durban
Rating: rating 5/5
Comment: Our recent holiday was absolutely fantastic. It was our first visit to South Africa and we could not have had a better introduction.

Tony our guide, was friendly and professional throughout and with his vast knowledge and expertise we got so much more out of the holiday than if we had travelled alone.

Each day was different, each day was very good - we didn't find time to write the postcards until we were at the airport on our way home - there was so much to experience!

Our thanks go to Pierre and Tony and the people we met in South Africa for such a great time.

Regards
Trevor & Rachel Middleton
19.
Client: Joe Alexander - from Germany
Trip: South Africa Kruger National Park to Cape Town
Rating: rating 5/5
Comment: Pierre and his staff were incredible!! Our trip to South Africa was everything you could expect and MORE!

From the minute we were picked up to the minute we were dropped off (didn't want to go home) this trip was first rate! Pierre gave us the most personal and thorough tour you could ever imagine.

From our trip through the Kruger (oustanding success, we saw ALL of the big five and more...watch out for the elephants!) to the home cooking under the beautiful African sunsets, we all had an AMAZING time.

Our trip down the Garten Route to Cape Town was equally amazing. Our guide Mike was extremely knowledgeable and went above and beyond the call to make our stay as pleasant as possible. We took full advantage of the sightseeing and even made the big leap off the world's highest bungee. Cape Town is a MUST!

This trip was something my family and I will NEVER forget and we hope to do it again in the future. Thank you Pierre !

Definitely recommend this tour operator to everyone! I've already told all my friends and I'm sure they will be signing up soon. If you want a personal tour, one that makes you feel at home with a great guide like Pierre, sign up NOW! Until next time!

Thank you Vera and Africa Travel Guide for all your help in making this trip a success. Your extremely prompt responses and friendly customer service had me sold from the start. We shall be back!

Thanks again,
Joe Alexander
20.
Client: Mie Mie Tin - from Australia
Trip: Create-Your-Own Tour in South Africa, or 18 other African Countries.
Rating: rating 5/5
Comment: Travelling with this safari company was one of the most enjoyable experiences we have ever had.

Not only were they very informative about the African fauna and flora but their easy going attitude made it enjoyable to learn. Their excellent local knowledge mixed with a sense of humour kept us laughing.

We highly recommend them to anyone who wants to view the natural beauty of Africa and have a great time doing it.

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