Gorillas & Masai Mara: Safari Holiday, Kenya, Uganda & Rwanda

Our Clients’ Reviews

Here at Exodus we thrive on feedback from our customers. It's the only way we can ensure our trips continue to be the best they can be. So, for the real tales, twists and turns of the trip you're interested in, look no further than the reviews from our previous travellers. Any feedback collected (Good or bad) from Exodus clients is posted straight onto our website - totally unedited. Read more...

Average Review Rating: from 127 reviews.

Jill Funnell

GORILLAS & MASAI MARA

Written October 2009
A trip of a lifetime, I could quite happily go back and do it all over again.
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What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?
There were many highlights to this holiday but I would put the gorillas and the optional balloon trip first and foremost. Also the visit to Joy and George Adamsons house and the boat trip to get there was very enjoyable.
What did you think of your group leader?
Our group leader JJ was exceptional, nothing was too much trouble he was admirable. Each evening he would give us our little talk about what you could expect the following day and each morning he would summarize the day for us, keeping us well in touch with what we were doing. The other two guys, Leo and Julius were also wonderful. Leo is a great cook, we had super meals all through the journey. The food was always fresh and healthy. He was always willing to try and please anyone with any particular food needs. Julius drove us much of the time and always made us feel safe and comfortable. In my view, the guides make or break a trip, these guys certainly made ours. I can't say enough for them.
Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

A torch, or even two is a must, Africa is very dark at night. You will need it, I regreted not taking a stronger one.
Organizing your packing in purpose made travel bags will also help as you don't have a lot of room for your clothes, and don't take too may, you won't need them. As many of the reviews say, the back of the truck can get cold at times so do take a fleece.
Lastly, a loo roll, you will need it, you are in Africa!

Is there anything else you would like to add?
Initially I did doubt booking this trip as the three of us that went are 71, 64 and 62 years old. I thought that maybe we would have a problem 'keeping up' but we had no problem what so ever. There is always an alternative if you find the going hard. In my view the treck up to the orphanege was probably the hardest, it is a one and a half hour walk, up the mountain, do wear your walking boots for this trip. Our 71 year old was put on a small motorbike taxi to get her there. I took a little can of 'bubbles' the ones that you blow through, they were such a hit with the children, another idea is a small ball, they would love it. So this was our first overland trip and I can't wait to do another one. So all you guys with a bus pass get out there and try this bus, magic!!
Lindsay Wills

GORILLAS & MASAI MARA

Written October 2009
The most unbelievable holiday! Difficult to summerise it all, from the moment we arrived it was non-stop enjoyment. Saw amazing things and our guides were a great group of guys. Be prepared to take loads of pics! Can't recommend this holiday enough....
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What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?
getting close to so many animals esp the chimps and gorillas. After seeing the gorillas I had goosebumps!
What did you think of your group leader?
Amazing. Often really made my holiday; he was helpful, kind and full of useful information!
Do you have any advice for potential travellers?
Book this holiday NOW!!!
Howard Horsley

GORILLAS & MASAI MARA

Written September 2009
A really excellent trip, despite a shaky start due to problems with flights - outside the control of Exodus. The crew were brilliant and the wildlife viewing was the best I have ever experienced - having taken my first wildlife safari in 1971 !
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What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?
Without a doubt spending time with the mountain gorillas of the Kwitondas family on Mt Mgahinga. On the other hand it would be churlish not to mention watching the Wildebeest migration from a hot air balloon - or watching a lion mating -or....
What did you think of your group leader?
A good leader of an excellent team
Do you have any advice for potential travellers?
Be prepared to rough it at times to get the best experience of East Africa
Is there anything else you would like to add?
Another great holiday with Exodus !
karen miller

GORILLAS & MASAI MARA

Written September 2009
A first timer on such a trip as this, I was very nervous. I needn't have been. Often, Bernard and Nebert were wonderful. Often, always concerned, always a kind word, a hug and a beautiful smile. Bernard an amazingly skillful chef conjuring up excellent meals every time and warm and funny, Nebert a quiet, kind man with a smile always at the ready. An amazing trip with a well organised and packed itinerary. We did and saw so much, I made very good friends and had so many laughs and memorable moments, I felt hugely looked after and safe. Exceptional! It was a big step for me to do a trip like this by myself. Now I can't wait to do another trip with Exodus!
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What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?
All moments? I enjoyed every single moment of the trip, but ok here are a few -
The guys who were in charge of our group were truly inspirational. They were so organised and efficient and kept everything running so smoothly.
Arriving in Rwanda the surroundings were beautiful, the people smiled and waved, their houses and land immaculately cared for. Inspirational for a people that had been through so much. The genocide museum was extremely moving and very thought provoking.
Seeing the gorillas so close and being surrounded by them was the highlight of my trip. A magical and emotional hour. Seeing and hearing about the care and work that goes in to protecting them was inspirational.
The hot air balloon trip, sitting in Joy Adamson's garden with the colobus monkeys, speeding across the mara to see the cheetahs....
Everything!!!
What did you think of your group leader?
Often, our group leader was a kind, gentle, caring, softly, well spoken man who had this incredible air of authority over the group in an amazingly polite, quiet way!! Very well organised throughout the whole trip and managed any problems with huge diplomacy. His smile will never be forgotten. It was easy to feel very close to him and very comfortable with him. There were always hugs and laughter with him. I can't really do him justice with mere words. A brilliant, brilliant guy.
Do you have any advice for potential travellers?
A sense of humour is a must!! Do take a couple of fleeces, it can get chilly. Take loo rolls. Take a small bag in which to put your nightwear, next day's clothes, washbag etc. in to go from truck locker to tent. Do use antibacterial gel obsessively!! Enjoy a hot shower when you get one and be prepared to grin and get on with the wet wipes sometimes!! The showers at Jinja are the best!! Do make sure you have a head torch. Above all just enjoy!!!!
Is there anything else you would like to add?
The written word does not do this trip justice. It is hard to explain the feelings you feel, the sights you see, the closeness of the group and leaders during the two weeks together. I made some great friends. It is an amazing trip, with a jam packed itinerary of wonderful things to do and see. Don't just sit there ....... book it!!! I am sure you won't regret it. :))
Sue O'Neill

GORILLAS & MASAI MARA

Written July 2009
I had wanted to see the gorillas since seeing the David Attenborough programme. I waited a long time to achieve my ambition. This trip far exceeded my hopes and anticipation. And the journey there through Kenya and Uganda was itself a wonderful experience.
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What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?
The gorillas, of course. But also the wonderful wildlife in the Masai Mara. I had not dreamt that we would be able to get so close to such amazing animals. The hot air balloon ride at dawn. Watching the beautiful coun tryside of all three countries unroll before my eyes as we travelled.
What did you think of your group leader?
Often was amazing. He was guide, wild life expert, historian, driver, mechanic etc Together with Bernard and Nevert he made the whole trip happen. By the time we had reached the end of our journey we all felt like one big family. His enthusiasm and love of the countryside and its wildlife was infectious. We were so well looked after. As soon as the truck had rolled to a stop the guys were out putting up the tent, getting the fire going and before long a wholesome and hearty meal was ready for us. Their good humour never failed.
Do you have any advice for potential travellers?
The trip notes are pretty much all you need in terms of information before departure. Do take note of the advice to take cash in US dollars. Some of our group spent much frustrating and sometimes unsuccessful time trying to get money using their plastic. The sanitary arrangements, or rather lack of them, are t as bad as the trip notes might lead you to expect. Our guides were always careful to ensure that we had frequent stops and I dont think anyone had any really bad experience. I did not get any visas in the UK and had no trouble getting them at each of the entry points. A head torch is essential. Travel as light as possible. The lockers are not enormous and you will need to unpack everything in to them. A small bag to cater for nightly needs is useful. When calculating how mucgh money to take remember to factor in not just the tips for the Exodus guides, who deserve every penny, but also all the other expert guides who are brought in to share their expertise. There are quite a few and tips for them can add up and make quite a hole in one's finances. The emphasis is on only tipping when womeone really deserves it. In my experience all of the people who contributed to the trip were excellent and deserving of a tip.
Is there anything else you would like to add?
This really was the trip of a lifetime. We had a great group which bonded easily and shared lots of wonderful moments and laughs. Dont worry about being a solo traveller you wont feel like one for very long.
Hannah Marder

GORILLAS & MASAI MARA

Written July 2009
A wildlife lover's dream covering a range of landscapes. A very planned and executed trip, smooth running from start to finish. Fantastic team of local leaders. Saw an incredible variety of wildlife, and found the trip well balanced between activities, travelling and relaxation time. There are some long journeys but don't let that put you off.
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What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?
There's not much that can compare to coming face to face with a mountain gorilla high in the Volcanoes National Park! Also seeing leopards and cheetahs in the wild - I hadn't dared hope that we would.
What did you think of your group leader?
Our group leader was Often, of whom I cannot speak highly enough. I've been on a lot of trips and had good leaders, but Often is the best yet! He was friendly, helpful, cheerful, and managed to get along with everyone without ever being imposing. His awareness of the group's mood was excellent - he always noticed if someone was feeling a bit ill or sad for some reason and responded. Not to mention the fact he could do everything from fix the truck to bake a cake on an open fire! There's no end to this guy's talents!
But I also have to mention the cook, Benard, and the driver, Nebert. The three men made a great team and all were the most helpful, friendly and professional guides you could wish to meet. They worked incredibly hard and their love for their jobs came across in everything they did.
Do you have any advice for potential travellers?
If you're worried about your fitness for the gorilla trekking, don't let it stop you going. I was in a group with a lady who'd had both knees replaced and she made it! The pace is slow because the undergrowth is so thick, so don't worry about being superfit, though of course it's a good incentive to get down the gym! The worst thing on the trek were the stinging nettles - wear thick trousers, a long sleeved shirt, proper walking boots with good thick socks, and gardening gloves. They provide you with sticks so don't worry about walking poles. The rest of the trip is well within the capabilities of most people.
Take a couple of books as there are some long drives, though the truck does have a library which you can use. Pack as lightly as you can. Don't put on clean clothes before a long truck drive - you'll get covered in dust. It's worth taking several smaller bags within your main bag and dividing up your things into groups e.g. wash kit, gorilla trek kit, day bag, night bag etc. This makes it easy to reach into your locker and take out whatever it is you need, rather than spending ages searching through a jumble of things - the lockers are narrow and deep so things get buried easily, and it's always a scrum on the truck as everyone tries to find their stuff. Make life easy for yourself! Take plenty of camera batteries although the charger on the truck is fast and there are quite a few sockets so no one had big problems getting things charged. Also have lots of memory space - I would recommend at least 4 GB for a 10 MP camera. For the school visit, you can buy things to take in town on the way, so don't worry about bringing things from home. They are also grateful for cash donations. Be prepared to stand up in front of the class and do some very simple teaching (e.g. reading out the numbers from 1-20). It can be surprisingly cold, especially in the back of the truck, so take a good fleece. Also I would recommend at least a three season sleeping bag, if not a four season, as those with lighter bags found themselves cold at night. If you go white water rafting, you will certainly fall in many times so go prepared. Be wary of pushy salespeople when stopping off on the journeys, try to stay in groups and don't be afraid to say no - and always haggle! A pack of cards will make you popular with fellow travellers, and a head torch is essential - take it everywhere towards evening as darkness descends very quickly.
Is there anything else you would like to add?
To give an idea of what it is possible to see on this trip, here are all the animals that we saw on my departure; chimpanzees, mountain gorillas, baboons, vervet monkeys, colobus monkeys, lions, leopards, cheetahs, spotted hyena, jackal, rock hyrax, elephant, giraffe, zebra, wildebeest, hartebeest, eland, topi, Thompson's gazelle, impala, waterbuck, dik-dik, water buffalo, black rhino, white rhino, flamingo, ostrich, vulture, hippo, crocodile, pelicans, marabou stork, kingfishers, fish eagles, mongooses, secretary birds, and a whole range of smaller birds and butterflies.
Julie Blakey

GORILLAS & MASAI MARA

Written March 2009
It was all you could expect and more. A real experience
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What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?
Meeting the Gorilla's and seeing them interact with each other, being so close without bars
The wildlife in the Masi is amazing and the guys know just where to look for them
Seeing children happy to play with a hoop and stick and walk 4 miles to school, not a play station in sight
What did you think of your group leader?
Chris the group leader was great, he was sociable and knowledgable and kept us informed all the time
the guides and staff at all the places we went were professional and competant - totally safe
Joanas the cook and Julias the driver also did a wonderful job, the food was great (and I'm a fussy eater!) the tents were up as soon as we arrived so there was no waiting around
Do you have any advice for potential travellers?
Dont get too worried about having to go behind bushes and not being able to wash for days as some warn you. The guys always made every attempt to get you to a proper toilet and even the weakest bladder didnt have too much of a problem. The showers at most of the sites were HOT HOT HOT and if not, it was never for 2 nights in a row, and you had been warned the night before that they may not be hot, so take advantage of the ones you had. The 3 guys were hygiene crazy all the time, to make sure that no one was ill, food was plenty but not very varied, but he did have to shop for a week at a time sometimes, but I am very fussy, and still brought some of my "emergency food" back
Take snacks for on the bus if you are a big eater, sometimes it is 4 or 5 hours between breakfast and lunch
Is there anything else you would like to add?
dont over pack. The bus is dusty so clean clothes are a waste, and in lots of places you can wash them out and re use. Girls dont show too much flesh, they dont like it in the towns, but its fine on the bus of course!
You only have a small locker to store stuff, and some times you need to take an overnight bag, so make sure you have a small pack to take enough for 2 days with you from the vehicle. 2 smaller bags rather than one large one would be more practical
the bus is bumpy the roads are not too good, so its difficult to play games or read when you are bouncing about - I took ITunes books to listen to - worked great
GREAT ADVENTURE - Highly recommend - the walk up to the gorillas was hard for an overweight 50 year old, but I had a porter who held my hand all the way, and 3 friends to keep me going. They insisted that we went at my pace. Getting there made it ALL worthwhile - I still fill up when I think of them, they were fantastic
I shall be booking another Exodus trip soon - thanks to everyone for a great 2 weeks, I shall never forget