Experience the Magic of East Africa with Designer Safari!

In February of this year we had the pleasure of traveling to both Kenya and Zanzibar and everything was arranged by Designer Safaris. There were 8 of us and while in Kenya we had two drivers - Stephen and Rufus. They were both excellent. They were knowledgeable and took us safely on many safaris and from one place to another. Our accommodations were top notch, the service great and the food was delicious. We always felt well looked after and Matuma checked in with us regularly to make sure things were running smoothly. Travelling in Kenya and Zanzibar is really the trip of a lifetime. I would not hesitate to recommend Designer Safaris. They helped provide us with memories that will last forever.

Our trip to Kenya and Zanzibar with Designer Safari was nothing short of amazing. We were greeted at the airport and taken directly to Deer Park Lodge. We arrived a day early so Mutuma quickly put an itinerary together and we were off to see Nairobi.
When our actual Safari days arrived we met our guides Steve and Rufus, who were friendly, knowledgeable and easy to spend time with.
We were impressed with our itinerary, our accommodation, food and the hospitality at all the resorts.
Steve and Rufus were excellent drivers on our game drives and the highways. Their knowledge of all the local animals, the land and the local customs kept us well informed. Our four days in Zanzibar was a great way to end our trip. The beautiful resort was a perfect place to be pampered and enjoy a few interesting excursions. We would highly recommend booking your Kenya/Zanzibar adventure with Designer Safari. Mutuma was always quick to respond to any questions and always made us feel that we were a priority.

Our first trip to the African continent—Kenya—was truly unforgettable.

We booked through TravelLocal, whose model connects travelers directly with local experts and allows flexibility in travel dates and trip length. We were introduced to Alex Matumo from Designer Safari, who took the time to understand exactly what we wanted and presented thoughtful options at different price points. We chose a private safari—and from that moment on, everything felt seamless and VIP.

From being met at the airport gate and escorted through immigration, to being personally handed off to our driver, every detail was handled with care. Alex designed a two-week itinerary that took us across mountains, lakes, savannas, national parks, and private conservancies (Aberdares, Ol Pejeta, Lake Nakuru, Maasai Mara, Lake Naivasha, Ambocelli) —each more breathtaking than the last.

Our guide, Rufus, a Maasai tribesman and experienced safari driver, made the journey extraordinary. We used the same vehicle throughout the trip, traveling between regions and heading out on daily game drives. His knowledge, patience, and flexibility allowed us to experience wildlife on our schedule. Thanks to him, we saw the Big Five, countless birds, lions, cheetahs, leopards, hippos, wildebeest and even a magnificent herd of elephants crossing directly in front of our jeep.

One of the most magical moments at Ambocelli (apart from the elephants) was witnessing the breathtaking views of Mount Kilimanjaro —an image forever etched in our memories.

Staying inside the parks meant wildlife was part of everyday life. Seeing giraffes and zebras wandering the grounds, or buffalo, warthogs, impalas, gazelles, and rhinos gathering at watering holes, felt surreal. We also had the opportunity to meet members of the Maasai community and learn about their traditions—an enriching cultural experience.

As vegetarians, we were pleasantly surprised by the abundance of options, including Indian cuisine at nearly every meal. The warmth and hospitality of the Kenyan people made us feel welcome everywhere we went.

When unexpected geopolitical events forced us to reroute our return home and extend our stay in Nairobi, Alex once again went above and beyond—securing accommodations, suggesting sightseeing options, and staying in daily contact until we safely reached home. The staff at Deerpark Luxury Suites were incredibly hospitable, and the location made exploring Nairobi easy and comfortable.

This was more than a vacation—it was a glorious adventure filled with wildlife, culture, stunning landscapes, and exceptional care. We cannot recommend Designer Safari enough and hope to return to Kenya—and explore more of Africa—again someday.

Excellent experience! Alex was suoer responsile and helpful, and George was an excellent driver, patient and full of ideas and knowledge about the parks and animals.
Already planing another trip with Designer Safari for 2027 🙂

The driver James was excellent. He worked well with others in the park to locate animals for us to see. He was fun, friendly, knowledgeable and made our trip fantastic.
The fees were appropriate. Good food, lodging, beautiful views from our rooms, all throughout the hotel. We stayed 2 full days and 3 nights, comfortable beds and accommodations.

I chose Designer Safari because of their excellent reviews and professional certifications (IAGTO, KATO, etc.).

I booked an 8-day Kenya safari including Amboseli Sopa Lodge, Lake Naivasha Simba Lodge, Lake Nakuru Sopa Lodge, and Masai Mara Basecamp Adventure. Everything was efficiently organised. The itinerary was perfect, the accommodation was beautiful and varied, and our guide George was absolutely fantastic.

Even though it was the rainy season, we saw plenty of wildlife, including the Big Five, and George navigated flooded, challenging roads safely and on time. Every lodge and camp we stayed at had friendly staff and wonderful service. I’m vegetarian, and the food was always fresh, healthy, and delicious.

Communication with Designer Safari was quick and easy throughout. They even arranged a great day-only deal at the Crown Plaza at Nairobi Airport, which turned out to be lovely, especially the rooftop pool before our night flight home.

Overall, it was a wonderful and truly memorable trip. I wholeheartedly recommend Designer Safari for anyone looking for a personalised, reliable, and amazing Kenyan safari experience.