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.

Duncan Muir

GORILLAS & MASAI MARA

Written September 2011
The whole experience exceeded my expectations which were high!!!
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What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?
(1) The Gorillas!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
(2) Widebeast Migration
(3)The majesty of the Masa MARA.... unexpectadly so GREEN after unseasonal rain
(4) Leopards and Cheetahs and the countles other animals
(5) The warm welcome in all the countries
What did you think of your group leader?
Friendly smiling a diplomat aiming to please the group. Had his work cut out at times... getting stuck in mud in a game park for 5hrs,meaning a late late arrival at our overnight stop.Having to give our truck to another Exodus trip whose truck had died etc and our padlocks had to be broken off the lockers and our valuables taken seperately to rejoin us.
Food was adequate on the truck if very unimaginative , sadly all food purchased in supermarkets and not fresh veg from markets along the way.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?
Book it ...you wont be disappointed . Torch toilet paper wet wipes and warm layers essential . The tents smell a bit damp and was awoken by lions and buffalo quite close in the night in our stay at Lake Navasha and then a worthog ripping grass the other side of my canvas at dawn(!) , some of the accommadation is very basic but the locations make up for it. As we did the reverse trip there was opportunuty to go to both the giraffe and elephant sanctuaries in Nairobi and in my opinion the accomodation probably breaks better this way, however you do go from plane to genocide museum in Rwanda.
Is there anything else you would like to add?
The optional trip to the orphanage at Lake Buyoni was unforgetable, very humbling.
I was not over impressed with the trucks ammenities... more camp fires, candles a music system and an awning/canopy for when it rains and dinner is ready, together with a better stocked library of fauna/flora etc would have ben appreciated... some of the other trucks we encountered on our stops looked better thought out . I did have an issue with frozen chicken being put in a caserole which was seved an hour later, D and V did occur in the group and for some was quite severe...? a coincidence.
Lucy Roberts

GORILLAS & MASAI MARA

Written August 2011
This was the most awe inspiring trip of my life!
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What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?
* Trekking to see the awe inspiring mountain gorillas in Rwanda (and having a silverback breathe on my neck)
* The genocide memorial and museum: 1994. 100 days. 1 million people. The world stood by and watched it happen.
* Spending my bday in the Ugandan bush drinking champagne and toasting marshmallows by the campfire surrounded by warthogs and very noisy hippos.
* Hot air ballooning at dawn over the migrating wildebeast in the Masai Mara.
* Sleeping in Nakuru National Park as three lions prowl past our tents and rangers need to fire warning shots
* Seeing the beauty of lions, elephants, giraffes, rhinos, zebras, impala, water buffalo and wildebeast up close and personal xx
* Having a David Attenborough view of a python eating an impala....ewwwgh!
* Spending the morning in a rual Ugandan primary school and joining in the song and dance
* Meeting amazing and inspiring people and some friends for life. Endless smiles and gut-busting laughter every day. This trip has changed my life xx
What did you think of your group leader?
Emias is one of the loveliest people I have met. He is incredibly knowledgeable, sensitive to group and individual needs, generous to a fault and very funny. He always has a beaming smile that brightens even the earliest of early starts. Emias, Leo and Francis were a cohesive team and clearly enjoyed working together. Leo is a fabulous chef (his guacamole is to die for and how many people can make a delicious lasagne on a BBQ?) and I enjoyed our nightly banter over the dinner menu ("food" was the only answer I could EVER squeeze out of him!). He also made me a beautiful cake for my birthday. You will definitely not go hungry on this trip. Francis did most of the driving and if you ask him nicely he will 'fly' over the bumpy parts of the road. Nothing is too much trouble: if you left your tent open during the day and it starts raining, you wont come back to a wet sleeping bag, if you're sick he'll bring you tea and he's always good for a chat. Nakupenda sana, Emias, Leo and Francis. Thank you for making this such a great trip xx
Do you have any advice for potential travellers?
If you have any doubts over going on this trip, don't! It's amazing and you will have the time of your life. Don't worry about going on your own either. I'd never been away on my own before and everyone was so friendly. I had an amazing roomie who I'd definitely go away with again.
Things worth thinking about:
* You really need a decent torch. My duck torch (affectionately known as Dermot) did not cut the mustard one tiny bit!
* Take two smaller bags. It would have been so much easier, especially when camping.
* You can never have enough antibacterial gel, wipes and loo roll (and maybe even a peg for your nose!)
* You will take thousands of pictures (spare batteries, SD cards and lenses are a must)
* If you get sick in Nairobi I would definitely recommend the medical centre there (don't wait, go). It is stunning: immaculately clean, gorgeous medical team and amazing facilities. They took great care of my roomie so she was able to get on the flight that night and even gave her a present as she left.
Is there anything else you would like to add?
Just do it!
Norman Seddon

GORILLAS & MASAI MARA

Written August 2011
An excellent introduction to East Africa and its wildlife.
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What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?
The gorilla trek was quite amazing. To get that close to such magnificent animals was an emotional moment. We were also lucky enough to do the balloon trip over the Masai Mara. Looking down over tens of thousands of wildebeest was breathtaking.
What did you think of your group leader?
Emias was a star. Nothing was too much trouble. He was very well organised. Skilled at dealing with a disparate group of people. Did his job calmly and efficiently. Hugely knowledgable and enthusiastic about all aspects of the trip. Leo and Francis (cook and second driver) were equally as skilled and as personable. Together they made a great team.
Do you have any advice for potential travellers?
Take as good a head torch as you can get, we used them a great deal. Quite cool in the evenings, need a fleece or similar. You will take loads of photos - have enough memory cards. Truck has charging points, so batteries are easily recharged. Some long days on truck over rough roads but plenty to see.
Is there anything else you would like to add?
Mark Twain said, "In twenty years time you won't regret what you have done, you'll regret what you haven't done." Book it now!!!
Pete Dickenson

GORILLAS & MASAI MARA

Written August 2011
A truly outstanding trip - two weeks of amazing sights, fantastic wildlife and emotional moments spent with some great new friends and a terrific crew. Without doubt the best holiday I have ever had.
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What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?
So many inspirational moments :
In the Masai Mara seeing a lioness with three cubs just after eating a kill, watching a cheetah posing for 15 minutes for us; Every time we thought it couldn't get any better, it did!
The Little Angels children's orphanage in Uganda brought a tear to the eye. So many under priviledged kids, who still manage to smile and be happy - most of our group sponsored a child or made a donation.
Having warthogs on the campsite at Lake Mburu Park, and baboons everywhere at Makalia Falls in Nakura Park made for some memorable nights in the tents.
The mountain gorilllas in Rwanda were awe-inspiring - to be so close to such magnificent animals is worth the cost alone. One hour never went so quickly, but some superb memories and photos.
The Genocide museum in Rwanda, although sad/challenging in some respects, is essential to appreciate what these people have gone through.
The balloon trip over the Masai is definately worth the expense, and the champagne breakfast afterwards is wonderful.
Fishing and catching a Nile Perch at Jinja.
What did you think of your group leader?
Often was outstanding - he was patient, took care of everyone, was a fantastic wildlife spotter, and still managed to make us smile after driving along some dodgy roads for a full day. I would recommend him guide to anyone - he is a star.
Benard is the greatest cook - he strategised the meals, and we terrorised the food! Green peppers will never be the same again........
I could not believe it was Patson's first trip - he looked like he'd been doing this trip for years.
Three of the best crew, who helped to make this trip outstanding.
Do you have any advice for potential travellers?
Don't forget a headtorch, wet wipes, and spare dollars (although there are a couple of ATM's along the way), and most importantly a sense of humour to help you through some very early starts.
Is there anything else you would like to add?
Book this trip now - you will not regret it in any way. If you can get Often as the tour leader, then it will be even more special.
Jayne Arnott

GORILLAS & MASAI MARA

Written August 2011
We would do it all again tomorrow! A fantastic experience
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What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?
The Masai Mara was better than we could have hoped for, we saw everything we asked for! and more...
Balloon flight is worth every penny
Masai Village was great
Listening to the hippos as we lay in our tents!
Bungee ( head first into the Nile River) and white water rafting at Jinja
Little Angels School in Uganda was very emotional, happy kids that only want you to play with them. Meeting Duncan who has set up the school, hes an inspirational young man.
And, of course, spending time with the gorillas was magical, the quickest hour of the holiday...
And not forgetting all the like minded gang on board the truck...
What did you think of your group leader?
Often was a fantastic guide, he went above and beyond anything asked of him to make sure everyone had the best time possible.
Benard was our cook, who never gave a straight answer to a question! he made us laugh constantly, the rabbits (vegetarians) had to go to the table first, then the lions (meat eaters) had to come and 'terrorise' the food. Ben if you read this Gayle says Hi xx
Pattson was our learner driver, this was his first trip, although you would never had known it...always with the biggest grin and laugh.
A fantastic trio who definitely helped make this the best holiday we have ever had. A credit to their profession.
Do you have any advice for potential travellers?
A sense of humour helps with the early starts, some long days travelling and most importantly with the toilets!!
Pack for all weathers, we had dry, wet, warm and cold. You can get a bag of washing done at Jinja for $5 so pack light
A good head torch, wet wipes and toilet roll are essential!
Leave some space in your bag for souvenirs, you will be tempted..
Is there anything else you would like to add?
This was a fantastic trip, we saw and did so much in 2 weeks.
Dont think about it just book it.....
Colin Todd

GORILLAS & MASAI MARA

Written August 2011
Excellent trip.
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What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?
The day hike in Rwanda to see the gorillas. 10/10.

What did you think of your group leader?
The 3 guys did a great job. Driving, setting up the camp and cooking. Thanks lads...
Do you have any advice for potential travellers?
Good hiking shoes for the gorilla trek.
Fleece or thermal tshirt for the morning of the balloon ride - it's an early start that moring.
Help out with the camping/tents/dishes after dinner. The lads work long hours so they would appreciate a little help, even though they never asked.
Is there anything else you would like to add?
Our trip started in Kigali. I arrived a day early at the hotel. My main reason for choosing the trip was to see the gorillas. It was the most enjoyable hike/day trip I've been on anywhere in the world. Rwanda and Uganda were excellent, plenty of activities/freedom to walk in parks/canoe/hike. Seeing a python trying to swallow a deer/impala was amazing.
The camping facilities - although basic, were a lot better than I had imagined.
After Rwanda and Uganda I found Kenya less enjoyable to be honest. The Masai Mara/wildlife/balloon ride were excellent. However, the rest of time was spent mainly on the bus with long drives. That time in Kenya is probably more suited to people interested in photography. It was still enjoyable but didn't come close to Rwanda and Uganda in my opinion.
I booked a transfer from Kigali airport to the group hotel as an extra/option. There was a mix up and it never arrived. The hotel is only about a $10 taxi drive away but be prepared just incase.
Overall I really enjoyed the trip. Thanks to Emias, Leo and Francis. Leo is a top class chef.
Paul Grover

GORILLAS & MASAI MARA - June 2011

Written July 2011
On this trip you'll travel through three very different countries, see amazing scenery, great wildlife and meet some cool people.
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What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?
The Gorillas are of course very special and an absolute highlight of this trip. The Masai Mara for me was also very special - it kept delivering spectacle after spectacle (just when we thought "it can't get better than this" - the mara proved us wrong). Seeing a small pride of lions with a kill on an early morning game drive was just amazing. Between the Mara and Nakuru we managed to see all the big 5 - plus cheetahs, giraffe and an elusive serval cat.
On day one you have the option of taking boat to Elsamere - this is very worthwile, especially watching the fish eagles catching their lunch!
The nature walk at Lake Mburo in Uganda was great highlight of the second week - the chance to get on eye level with animals is a truely wonderful experience). The walk is also great for birdwatchers - who'll love the variety of feathered critters.
The visit to the genocide museum in Kigali is rightly challenging - but you leave with a good understanding of the events and underlying causes of the 1994 genocide.
Oh and drinking Nile Special, next to the Nile, that was quite cool too.
What did you think of your group leader?
Chris (leader), Francis (co-leader) and Jonas our cook were great. The guys work so hard behind the scenes to keep us well fed and on track - all the time with a smile and great conversation. Chris shares his knowledge of geography, history and wildlife throughout the trip and I learnt so much as a result.
The guys are also great at advising you where and when to change money, what rates to expect and how much to change.
Do you have any advice for potential travellers?
Aside from go ahead and book it I would say:
The gorilla trek can be short or long - if you have any kind of condition that may limit your endurance (I suffer a bit with asthma) tell your leader and they will do their level best ensure that you are matched to a walk that's within your capabilities (don't worry - there will be one, a lady of 82 had been to see them the day before us!). Be prepared for the pace to increase a bit once you catch up with your designated family (again don't worry - if I can do it, pretty much anyone can!). Take lots of water with you (2 ltrs or more) you will need it!
Again on the gorilla trip if you have gaters or a method of closing the bottoms of your trousers then I'd advise using them - nipping ants can be an irritation. Long sleeved shirts are also highly recomended.
Take a stuff sack - it's great for taking ummm stuff from the truck to tent. Also be aware the when you head up to the Mara you leave the truck at Naivasha, so a small bag to take required kit in is necessary.
Lake Bunyoni offers a great opportunity to aclimatise to the conditions you'll encounter on the gorillas - the nature walk and the trip to the orphange are great ways to get some practice walking at a higher altitude to normal, in a hilly environment.
Is there anything else you would like to add?
This is a great trip for anyone wanting to visit africa for the first time, it's also a great trip for anyone whose been there before (it was my second time with Exodus). As the trip is fully catered you don't have to lift a finger (unless you want to) which means that time is totally your own.
You get a proper taste of "real africa" on this trip - be it camping in Lake Mburo National Park, with hippos and warthogs strolling between the tents at night, the bustle of Nakuru town or the quiet relaxed atmosphere of Kigali. So while the trip has a real wildlife focus, the other elements that make East Africa an amazing place to go are all well catered for.
If you are a photographer - this trip offers a lot of good photo opportunities - take plenty of memory and batteries - charging is available at a number of places and on the truck (when moving).
Now stop reading this and go and book it - when you get there say Hi to Charles the Silverback for me.