Safari Guru

Fantastic experience: We used Safari Guru for a trip involving three main locations and four countries. Throughout the planning process Safari Guru were clear, communicative and responsive. The recommendations were spot on for what we wanted, and their ability to turn something so complex into a stress-free experience was remarkable.

Fantastic experience: I cannot thank Deon and the Safari Guru team enough for the holiday we just had in Kenya! It was above and beyond! It was so well organised and ran so smoothly. Deon was so helpful with all our planning in the lead up too. The staff everywhere we stayed were so incredible and welcomed us with open arms to Kenya! We travelled with our 2 kids (10 and 7) who were also so well looked after and loved the safaris so much! Highly recommend for kids! The camps where we stayed were just breathtaking and we were in constant awe of what we saw, so much beauty. We cannot thank you enough Deon and are already planning our next trip!

Fantastic experience: The Safari Guru team went above and beyond to make our holiday so special and exceptionally smooth. From planning locations, to private transfers, to communication while on our trip - these guys know what they are doing. The curating of unique accomodation was perfection, showcasing the very best of South Africa. The team is even helping us recover some lost items we left behind! We truly had the time of our lives. Thank you Safari Guru!

Fantastic experience: Thanks to Allan and Deon we had the most wonderful time with the whole family in South Africa and in Mozambique. The choice of hotels and lodges, the Safaris, the transport, everything was well and thoughtfully planned. The communication was easy and everybody at Safari Guru was super helpful and accommodating. When planning the trip Allan was very patient with us, as we were changing ideas and plans a few times. I will definitely ask Safari Guru again for my next trips to Africa! Thanks you

Fantastic experience: We had a wonderful time in both South Africa and Mozambique. Everything was planned perfectly, every accommodation, the trips, the Safaris the restaurants, you cannot wish for more. We really enjoyed every moment of our family vacation. Thank you for organising our holiday in such a perfect way!!!!

Fantastic experience: Our first safari in Botswana was an amazing experience. If you want to sit back, relax, not have to worry about anything, you choose Safari Guru to organize your trip. Every detail, including all logistics, were well thought out and their communication is superb. Thanks to Allan for picking 3 deluxe camps with wonderful staff that were so different in feel and landscape. You chose very well for us to get an allround impression of the beauty that is Botswana. We felt pampered all the way. Thank you Deon, your company’s expertise shows!

Fantastic experience: What an epic experience we had with safari guru. From the initial consultation, attention to detail and the absolute expertise unlike I’ve ever experienced enabled our family to have the most amazing time in South Africa . We can not thank Deon enough for what he has given us, truly remarkable memories that will last a lifetime. Don’t hesitate, reach out. These guys are the best in the business.

Fantastic experience: I recently experienced a safari that went above and beyond my expectations, thanks to the exceptional planning by Suse, Deon and the Safari Guru team. Every detail was tailored perfectly to our interests and preferences, making the trip truly unforgettable. From breathtaking wildlife sightings to luxurious accommodations, everything was flawless. Suse was incredibly attentive, knowledgeable, and a joy to work with. I wholeheartedly recommend Safari Guru for anyone looking to plan a personalized and extraordinary safari adventure. Five stars!

Fantastic experience: Have travelled extensively, and with some very good companies, but never better than this. Deon delivered on every level, and at every turn. Entirely recommended.

Fantastic experience: Deon and Suse were extraordinary during the planning process for my South African safari. They booked 2 camps and 2 luxury hotels, all of which far exceeded my expectations for service and comfort. I was impressed with the precision of all of the logistics they handled, including transfers and matching accommodations to my desires. Our guides, food and of course the animals were exceptional. I highly recommend Safari Guru for planning your adventure!

Fantastic experience: Deon and his team planned our African adventure for my family of 4 (wife and 2 kids aged 7 and 11) through Botswana, Zimbabwe and South Africa. We had am amazing time and everything was perfectly planned and executed without a hitch. The camps and accommodation were 1st rate and we couldn't be happier. We can't wait to plan our next African holiday with Deon and the Safari Guru team.

Fantastic experience: This was my first African holiday and Safari Guru designed the most fabulous wildlife safari and Cape wine experience. An unbelievable African journey that I will never forget and one I can highly recommend to everyone. I am already planning my next one, it seems like Africa has so much to offer.

Fantastic experience: they are the best for everything that you need to make your trip as memorable as possible. the service is truly VIP. they are super kind, fast, and helpful. Be sure that they will be there for you if something happens during your trip, proving that they are great not only for booking the best trip for you but also during your trip. You can just relax and enjoy.

Fantastic experience: We have used Safari Guru to coordinate our two most recent trips in Southern Africa. Last year in Botswana and this year in Namibia. All the pre-tour arrangements were very professionally handled and the tours themselves were conducted by very experienced and knowledgeable local partners. We had a wonderful experience in both countries and will certainly continue to use Safari Guru for our future adventures in Southern Africa.

Fantastic experience: I run a small travel agency in MELB, and connected with Deon from Safari Guru to assist with my VIP clients' dream African safari holiday. I was beyond impressed. His knowledge of the regions helped to plan the perfect itinerary, including tailored recommendations & suggestions based off experience. I feel very confident dealing with Deon every single time now moving forward when I want my clients to have the best possible holiday in Africa.

Fantastic experience: Great trip, great camps with Duba Explorer the highlight. Close night encounters with buffalo and hippo, definitely not for the faint hearted. Well organised by Safari Guru

Fantastic experience: Greatest Trip Ever! Fourteen first timers to Kenya: Eight days in between two camps and Nairobi. Safari-guru customized the trip based on our budget and interests. We were taken care of from the time we landed at the airport until the time we were dropped off for our departure. Deon even came to chaperone for most of the wonderful adventure. The hospitality was first class all the way. I can’t imagine ever going to a zoo again. Highest recommendation for Deon and his crew. Safari-guru gets a rating of 10 out of 10. Nick F. Philadelphia, PA USA

Fantastic experience: We went to Kambaku Safari Lodge (Not Safari Sands) with our 3 teenagers. We could not recommend the Lodge and overall experience enough. It exceeded our expectations in every way. Firstly, the hospitality shown by Lizzette and Shaun (our guide) was first rate. Nothing was too much trouble for them and their staff. One of the services that they provide, but perhaps not advertised, was taking us to their sister lodge, Kambaku Safari Sands, where we were able to utliise the spa, where we had amazing massages, and the pool and bar/lounge area. (Drinks included at both). The food was delicious and plentiful, the accommodation was very comfortable, clean and spacious. As it was a smaller lodge, 18 guests max, we enjoyed the communal feel of the lodge. At mealtimes everyone sat at one table which was moved to different locations each night. The BBQ (braai) in the Boma was a highlight. As for the actual safari, wildlife was plentiful, spectactular and we saw the Big 5 within the first 3 game rides. Shaun (our guide) and Moses (our Tracker) went to every effort to ensure we got the best out of every single drive and we loved the small touches, like drinks/snacks on the early morning as well as the evening rides. This lodge is ideal for families and couples wanting an overall amazing experience with personal touch. Lizzette and team, thanks again for providing us with a trip of a lifetime and we hope to be back. The Kambaku Safari lodge offered a good balance of everything you would expect in the beautiful Timbavati Nature Reserve, including amazing game viewing, comfortable accommodation and amenities, and delicious food. Safari Guru recommended a few options for us, but in discussion with Deon, we weighed up the pros and cons of each and in the end we were all in agreement to go with Kambaku which exceeded all our expectations. Deon provided so much information and guidance, not only relating to the Safari but also our trip to Cape Town aftewards. As we had never been on a Safari before with our family, we were quite confused as to where to go, what to do, but Deon was generous with his time and guidance and ultimately helped us make the right choices. We would highly recommend Deon and Safari Guru to organise and book your next (or first) Safari.

Fantastic experience: We've recently discovered the magic of Safari but soon realised that his travel arena requires specialist input. Safari Guru helped us navigate which season to travel in, made complex internal African transfer seamless and effortless, stayed within our budget and, with their network, delivered us the best experiences. The magic of the Okavango Delta was something we could never have imagined. With its outstanding natural beauty, this water mass was a highlight; Deon and his team made something so logistically challenging seem effortless, and it was delivered without any issues and in great style! Safari Guru was indeed the lynchpin to our African adventure, which stretched over three weeks - we can't wait to get their suggestions for next year's Safari.

Fantastic experience: Safari Guru took care of everything for us - and it was all seamless. From the moment we joined Rovos Rail in Pretoria, to getting to Maun airport in Botswana (with 3 safaris in between), we didn't have to think of anything - it all just happened. We particularly enjoyed Matetsi near Victoria Falls - what a beautiful location on the Zambezi - service and scenery amazing. We wouldn't hesitate to book with Safari Guru again - their advice on our travel itinerary and execution were top notch

Fantastic experience: Truly unique experience. Many thanks to Allan and his team for planning such a wonderful safari at Kruger National Park. Highly recommend!

Fantastic experience: This was our 4th trip to Africa and by far the best ever. All the details were properly handled; we had not flight problems or delays and the service provided by Safari Guru was outstanding. I would recommend them, and have to friends and family. We will be going back to Africa with the outstanding Staff of Safari Guru.

Fantastic experience: We recently returned from Kenya, had a fabulous safari designed by Deon de Villiers of Safari Guru. We had some wonderful sightings and the whole thing went without a single hiccup. The guides were excellent. Deon was so helpful in allowing us to reschedule several times due to COVID restrictions preventing travel. We visited Sirikoi in the Lewa Conservancy and Serian Ngare, Serian Nkorombo and Mara Plains at Masai Mara, each place offering a different experience, each special in its own way. Loved the rhinocerous at Lewa, giraffe giving birth at Ngare, hippopotamus at Nkorombo and cats at Mara Plains, and so so much more. We highly recommend Deon and the Safari Guru team.

Fantastic experience: We finally got to take our Kenya/Rwanda adventure with Safari Guru post pandemic. Our trip was a fantastic experience that immersed us in Africa. The holiday went as planned, everything was organised so we were gently steered from place to place, which we enjoyed as we found we weren't "travel fit" after sitting on sidelines for two years! Our lodges in Kenya were beautiful, nice and small, felt like you were part of a family, rather than a customer! Rwanda was a highlight, an amazing country with a shocking past that is moving forward beautifully. The advice from Deon to do two gorilla walks was perfect. Our first day we hiked in to mountain and when we got there the heavens opened and it didn't stop! The scouts found 6 gorillas for us to glimpse as they were hiding from rain too! We trekked down in the mud, rivers of water ending up bedraggled! It was a great experience but the next day was perfect! Beautiful blue skies, trekked up and gorillas were everywhere, sunning themselves and eating vigorously. Was awesome being so close and they couldn't care less! Would highly recommend safari Guru, they planned us a perfect holiday and are easy to contact with queries and answer promptly. Travelling on our own was great as each place we stayed, there were like travellers from around the world to socialise with. Thanks Deon and Ashley

Fantastic experience: I was completely blown away with the service I received from Safari Guru. We had a most marvellous holiday in South Africa, Botswana and Namibia. Everything went extremely well and the Wilderness team were excellent in looking after us at each of their safari camps. Well done to Deon and Ashley, Morag Cotsell

Fantastic experience: Had an amazing experience working with Deon and Safari Guru. My wife and I went into this trip thinking of it as a once in a lifetime experience. Because of our experience we have another trip in mind to bring our children so they can have the same amazing experience that we had. Thank you Deon! We look forward to seeing you again!

Fantastic experience: Safari Guru organized us an amazing journey in Namibia for our wedding anniversary; it will be long lasting and marvelous memories for years! We also greatly appreciated the dedication and support of Safari Guru's team during these challenging times of the Covid pandemic as they had to re-arrange 2 times our trip initially planned for 2020. Thanks and kudos to Deon and all at Safari Guru!

Fantastic experience: We had a truly magical safari in Botswana. Deon and the staff of Safari Guru will guide you to the exact places you want to go specific to your desires and budget. Highly recommend! Deon is personally involved in every itinerary, down to the smallest detail. You will be thrilled with your trip! Again, highly recommend!!

Fantastic experience: Botswana! What an incredible destination as we begin to travel again. This is a trip of a lifetime. The game drives were exhilarating, the people are friendly, the food fantastic, and the accommodations are meant to spoil you. Our trip was beautifully planned and executed by Deon De Villiers and his team at Safari Guru. They have been to every camp they recommend and tailor your safari experience to you. What else could you ask for! We will travel with them again and highly recommend Safari Guru to plan your next trip!

Fantastic experience: Booking our safari through Safari Guru was seamless. Susan’s and Deon’s attention to detail was phenomenal, from the bespoke itinerary to ensuring our trip was completely matched to us and our expectations. We unfortunately embarked on our trip just prior to South Africa locking down due to Covid-19, so only managed 3 days of our trip. However those 3 days were amazing thanks to Safari Guru. Our guide Allan McMaster was there to scoop us up after our long flight and take us on the most amazing drive along the coast to Grootbos complete with fantastic photo shoot! He is incredibly knowledgeable and a lot of fun. Grootbos is a stunning nature reserve. The food, wine, accommodation and sights were all out of this world. Because we had to go from there to fly home and miss out on the rest of the trip, including our safari, our guide Allan, made sure the journey to the airport was just as amazing taking us to two incredible vineyards to sample some wonderful wines including a beautiful lunch at Jordan’s vineyard in Stellenbosch, so not moment was wasted. Safari Guru ensured we got the most out of our fleeting stay and re-booking to go in 2021 to pick up where we left off has been seamless and stress free. Would strongly recommend booking your trip through them. We can wait to go back to South Africa to see Allan and make our safari this time! Thank you Deon, Susan and Allan.

Fantastic experience: Only have the highest regard for the level of professionalism, local (African) knowledge and high quality of service provided by the Safari Guru. Deon did a sterling job in putting together a brilliant bucket list family trip to the Okavango Delta in Botswana in 2019 which I am now forever grateful for the unforgettable memories which we experienced. Truly a life changing journey. I can strongly recommend the Safari Guru when planning your next African safari.

Fantastic experience: Having met Deon several times in Botswana and greatly enjoyed being hosted by him in camp we entrusted him to booking a birthday safari trip to Zambia. The trip to Zambia was perfect, but also liaising with Deon to plan the safari was a joy and great fun. Which is really how it should be. I simply cannot recommend Safari Guru enough. So much so that I’m now having a blast as an ambassador for the company and have traveled with Deon to my family’s native Kenya. Years and years of traveling around, being a guest at, working in and managing camps in Africa - we know Africa.