Planning an African safari can be an exciting yet daunting task. With numerous tour operators and itineraries available, it's crucial to gather as much information as possible before making a decision. This article delves into various reviews of Tauck African safaris, offering insights into accommodations, wildlife encounters, tour directors, and overall experiences. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or embarking on your first safari, this guide aims to provide a comprehensive overview to help you plan your dream adventure.
Flights and Transportation
Many travelers choose Ethiopian Airlines for their journey to Africa. The business class offers a great flight and service with a lot of food, but it is spicy. The planes were new and very comfortable (Boeing 787-900s in Africa, and transcontinental Airbus A350s). While some prefer Qatar and Emirates, Ethiopian Airlines can be less expensive and more direct. However, one traveler experienced a lost reservation on the return flight, which tempered their initial enthusiasm.
Ethiopian Airlines seems to be a very direct route. Just as we were able to fly to Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe with a short layover in Addis, we also could have flown to any of the other departure cites for any Tauck tour that we looked up with only a short stop in Addis ( Even Windhouek, Namibia).
Accommodations
The Elephant Camp, located within Victoria Falls National Park, offers spacious and beautiful tented rooms. However, these are not well insulated from the outside, so crawling things get in. One traveler reported finding a scorpion and a large spider in their room. The hotel grounds are surrounded by an electric fence to keep out the large predators, but you can expect many of the smaller animals to be around, including some pretty big warthogs.
Each room features beautiful decks, expansive views, and plunge pools. There is air conditioning, mosquito netting, and a ceiling fan. A coffee and tea station and a well-stocked mini bar are also available. The main lodge includes a bar, a lovely terrace, and indoor and outdoor dining rooms. When the falls are full, you can see the Zambian side.
Read also: Unforgettable Tauck African Adventures
Sanctuary Chief's Camp is considered a truly 5-star property. Sabi Sabi lodge; stayed at 4 nights...ABSOLUTELY WONDERFUL with their service, food, and personal care outstanding.
Activities and Excursions
The lodges often include activities such as visits to local villages and schools at no extra charge. A sundowner game drive/safari with a cocktail party overlooking the gorge provides a beautiful introduction to the natural wonders. The Elephant Encounter offers up-close and personal time with rescued elephants.
The photographic hike skirts the gorge and goes almost to the bridge. The Boiling Pot Hike down to the gorge is very rocky and wet in places and I don't recommend this hike for everyone, but the views of the bridge and the so-called boiling pot are fantastic.
- Game Drives: Morning game drives start early, and evening drives end after dark. Blankets are provided, but extra layers and a warm hat are a good idea.
- Boat Safari: Enjoy a boat safari and lunch on the Chobe River. One highlight was a group of elephants crossing the river directly in front of our boat.
- Helicopter Rides: Take a 30-minute helicopter ride over the Delta for great views.
- Walking Safari and Mokoro Rides: Some groups split into two, with half going on a walking safari and the other half on mokoro rides.
Between the sundowner mini- drive and the Elephant Encounter, our local guide from the hotel, “Wonder”, taught us so much about elephants and how they fit into the ecosystem. He was very informative.
Between our Tauck TD, Kathy, also a native Zimbabwean , and Wonder, we learned a lot about how independence affected different groups at the time , and the current government as well as it’s challenges.
Read also: Experience Fad's Fine African Cuisine
The Art of Wildlife Photography in Kruger National Park
Tour Directors
The tour director plays a crucial role in the overall experience. One traveler praised their TD, Kathy, for being soft-spoken, efficient, organized, informative, caring, and enthusiastic about Africa. She ate every meal with the group and participated in all activities and drives. She had table set up for the whole group together for every meal. Everyone really got to know one another and bonded.
Food and Dining
Food quality can vary. While some find the venues beautiful and the food adequate, it may not always be special. Some travelers were cautious about eating fresh veggies, salad, or fruit, while others ate and drank everything. By the second day at Chobe , everyone was eating and drinking everything (except tap water - all of the resorts provide bottled water).
Dining in South Africa is generally a bargain. Consider having afternoon tea in the library at the Cape Grace for one of your off tour meals (a late lunch or early dinner). It is comparable to the best afternoon teas in London, but a fraction of the cost.
Health and Safety
Travelers are advised to take precautions against mosquitoes. The group of 15 was taking malarone with no ill effects. It appears 6 out of 8 had some stomach issue during the trip. Be sure to bring any prescriptions and OTC drugs for stomach issues including but not limited to Peptol B, Immonium D, laxative, stool softener, tums , OTC eye drops and anything else you can think of that you "might" need. When in doubt, take it long and you won't feel sorry. Includes ant-acids and if you are lactose intolerant, bring something to help that issue.
Potential Disappointments
Some travelers have reported disappointments, such as not being able to take the tram up to Table Mountain in Cape Town due to weather or mechanical problems. Victoria Falls can also be a disappointment if mist obscures the view.
Read also: The Story Behind Cachapas
Tips for Trip Preparation
- Historical and Political Background: Gain some understanding of South Africa in a post-colonial, post-apartheid society. Nelson Mandela's autobiography, "Long Walk to Freedom," and Trevor Noah's "Born a Crime" are good choices.
- Weather: The weather can be unpredictable, so bring a good sunhat and a waterproof light backpack and boots.
- Clothing: Bring fast-drying pants and socks, and keep one pair of shoes in the room for safaris and Victoria Falls.
Overall Experiences
Many travelers have had exceptional experiences with Tauck tours. They appreciate the great guides and drivers, although some accommodations may need improvement. Some reviewers have noted issues with customer service, cancellations, and dietary needs not being met.
We have taken 9 Tauck tours and all have been exceptional. Tauck immediately credited 50% of the total to our credit card and within 10 days we received the balance from Aon insurance with no hassles. I will continue to use Tauck happily.
Diverse Safari Options
There are diverse options when talking “South Africa” vs “East Africa”. As a comparison, this Tauck Tour in South Africa offers 7 “Game Drives” compared to the 13 in “East Africa” so less time to see animals but you also get to visit some major cities, an amazing Waterfalls, etc. FYI, when in South Africa even though I did fewer “Game Drives” in “Kreuger National Park” compared to Tanzania & Kenya I DID still get to see all the animals but fewer of them… and of course, you have to remember that Africa is NOT A ZOO so animals aren’t “on demand” so the more time you’re on “Safari” & “Game Drives” the better chances you’ll see all you came for, but again, I also loved my time in Cape Town/Victoria Falls/Johannesburg so a “diverse” trip is something I enjoy as well.
Summary of Recommendations
My final recommendation is if you DON’T plan to do the River Cruise with AMA Waterwys then take this Tauck Tour if you want to see the Gorillas or if the Gorillas don’t interest you/don’t work budget-wise, etc.
Table: Key Considerations for Tauck African Safaris
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Flights | Ethiopian Airlines often used; consider business class for comfort. |
| Accommodations | Vary from tented camps to 5-star properties; be aware of potential wildlife encounters in camps. |
| Activities | Game drives, boat safaris, helicopter rides, and cultural visits. |
| Tour Directors | Crucial for a positive experience; look for knowledgeable and enthusiastic directors. |
| Food | Generally adequate, but quality can vary; be cautious with fresh foods if concerned. |
| Health | Take malaria medication and bring remedies for potential stomach issues. |
| Preparation | Study South African history and politics; pack for varied weather conditions. |
