Our safari was “out of this world” in everyway. The accommodations were fit for a king, so comfortable and attractive, all with stunning views. The food was gourmet – supreme and we seemed to be eating all the time. The welcomes always warm and enthusiastic and the service likewise. The countryside was very dramatic and the game viewing so exciting. We could not get over how knowledgeable our drivers were. The transfers, meetings, greetings and deliveries all worked like clockwork and gave us confidence. We were able to just relax and enjoy ourselves.  Africa is such a country of beauty and contrasts. I really left my heart there. All the best and thank you for arranging such a wonderful trip.
P. and P. Ketchum, October 2005, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada

We had a really fantastic and absolutely flawless trip. Thank you very much for checking up on our flights that got changed and making all the arrangements that resulted from that change, including letting Barbara know we needed extra accommodations in Cairo. 
R. Patel and M. Rentz, October 2005, Bellevue, Washington, USA

Thanks to Ultimate Africa the celebration of our 25th wedding anniversary was superb. We were very happy with your suggestion of Botswana for our safari. The accommodations and safari drives were beyond our expectations. Wildlife viewing was excellent and the guides were top-notch!  In fact the knowledge of the guides and the attention to detail were remarkable. One guide, Zee, went out of his way to set up photos for my husband, who’s a keen bird photographer. He’d move the Land Rover so the sun favorably highlighted the animals and his explanations of the animal behavior were excellent. We told him we were interested in seeing leopard (we did) and cheetah. We also saw the birth of a baby elephant - a boy! I could sit and watch the hippos, giraffe, elephants, warthogs and monkeys forever! I particularly liked your suggestions for the variety of camps which turned out perfectly. Each camp was recommended by you for a different reason and the camps, the staff and the rooms were spectacular. In addition three nights at each camp gave us enough time to see lots of animals without feeling hurried. Overall the sunrise, the wildlife, including the mid-afternoon game viewings from the deck of our room, and the sunsets were unbelievable. You said the trip to Africa would be great and you were wrong, it was fantastic. The experience was very unique. A fabulous trip and one we will remember for a lifetime! We’ll use you again for our return trip to Africa and we will recommend Ultimate Africa to any friends thinking of an African adventure.
M. and T. Saunders, October 2005, Carlisle, Massachusetts, USA

Our trip was perfect. It exceeded our expectations. We were impressed that our safari guides knew and spoke highly of you. I was elected “chief” our last night on safari and of course have retained this title (Guests aboard Rovos Rail were most impressed – by the way Rovos Rail was a highlight It was a once in a lifetime thrill). Thank you again for a most wonderful plan. We really appreciate your efforts in our behalf. Appreciatorily…
R. Gammon, September 2005, Cypress, California, USA

Our trip was amazing. Botswana and the Okavango Delta is amazing. Looking down from the air there is nothing but water, bushes and animals beneath the plane. After arriving at Kwetsani air strip (only a runway) we drove for over 40 minutes on dirt to the camp.  There are only 5 thatched chalets built on 20 foot tall piers. You get to the chalets and dining area on wooden walkways.  At night you hear the lions and elephants roaring as they walk beneath your chalet. We were able to go out in the waterways in mekoros (2 man canoes with a native guide poler) to see the water creatures including hippo and red lechwe (deer than have web feet and can run across the water). We had a great time and because the camp is so small and intimate. We were really impressed with the young couple Ian and Aleda that were running the camp so professionally. The next camp was Mombo.  This is the premier camp in the Delta because it is on an island and has more game than any other camp. Here we saw a pride of 28 lions, leopards and wild dog.  There are herds of zebra, giraffe, and Cape buffalo who slept every night under our rooms.  The rooms are huge and were very nicely decorated. All the camps have outdoor showers but this one was truly deluxe. I told them I wanted to see wild dog and we saw 3 adults and 3 older pups. You can have your own private guide at any of the camps if you reserve ahead, but we prefer to get to know our fellow guests who all seem to be most adventuresome. On our last day there we wanted to make the morning drive, so Brandon the camp manager came out in a separate Land Rover to pick us up and take us back for breakfast in time to catch our plane to the next camp. Now that is very special!!! We had a great time at Mombo Camp in the Okavango Delta. We flew over the Delta and were able to see the herds of animals and in particular an amazing pod of hippopotami…they were huddled together like puppies and I counted 20 of them large and small. Our third camp was Savuti (Kings Pool was fully booked when we made our bookings). This rustic tented camp is in the dry area of Botswana around the Linyanti River and not far from Chobe. We flew into this camp aboard a Cessna Caravan 12 passenger. This is a nice plane and very smooth riding. We were then transferred into a Range Rover driven through sand on a very bumpy sand and dirt road for 45 minutes to Savuti Camp. As in all the camps we were not allowed to go out of our tent a night without a guide. We had a great guide here named Thutu and really enjoyed finding a leopard with a fresh kill of impala up a ironwood tree. Savuti is known for its elephants and one night we spent two hours in a hide not 5 feet from the elephants watching their behavior around the waterhole. The baby elephants are a riot…first they hide under their mothers and then they rush out and irritate some of the huge female and bull elephants who seem to have a laissez faire attitude to their mischievous behavior. We were lucky to have a boma or big feast at all the camps and Richard was named chief at this one and given an impala skin to wear. He really hammed it up and made all sorts of pronouncements. Dick was most disappointed when Thutu told him that being chief was over the next morning. He later told all the staff on the Rovos Rail that he was a chief! We traveled by air, road and boat to the River Club near Victoria Falls. The River Club is a great property overlooking the Zambezi River. It is owned by an Englishman and has a very Colonial atmosphere. The main lodge is very beautiful and has a huge porch with rattan furniture where everyone congregated. Our chalet was cantilevered on huge metal pilings over the Zambezi and open on the River side.  We had a great bed sitting area and the bathroom was downstairs also open to the river. At night hippos slept on the river below about 50 feet and made noises every few minutes. We took a cruise on the river at sunset to cool off. This reminded me of our sunset cruises on our sailboat on the Mississippi. The next day was our first activity.We went to the Royal Livingstone Hotel and caught a small powerboat out to the Livingstone Island and from there walked on slippery rocks to the edge of Victoria Falls, the biggest waterfall in the world. I was terrified of falling on the rocks and asked the little bushman (about 5 feet tall, but really strong) to help me negotiate. When we got to deep water he asked me to put my hands on his shoulders and then we swam out to the very edge of the Falls. I could raise up and look over and see the double rainbows on the falls, but chose not to sit on the slippery edge. We stayed there a while and then went back to the Island where a large tent was erected. We had hot tea and little cakes and cookies before taking the power boat back to the Hotel. We also took a microlight flight over Victoria Falls and the Zambezi River. Each microlight aircraft has a fixed wing and engine and that is about it other than the pilot and the passenger. We  dressed in insulated flight suits and the pilots put headphones and a microphone on each of us and covered our heads with a helmet and visor. There is a camera on the wing which records the entire flight on a CD. Really enjoyed the experience as we dipped over the Falls and saw where the next fault would break off the present falls in about 5,000 years. I saw two pods of hippopotami in the Zambezi River all nestled together and best of all I saw 9 elephants swimming across the Zambezi. The adults swim in front of and behind the baby elephants. It was a fantastic experience and much more fun than taking a helicopter over the Falls. Our first night on the fabulous Rovos Rail was fabulous. We spent all of the 2nd day in the high country called the Karoo heading towards Cape Town. About the only thing you see is windmills and abandoned tiny clusters of houses and sheep in the sparse vegetation. In spite of the desolation it is beautiful and impressive in its solitude.  The train stopped midmorning for two hours at Kimberley, the former diamond mining town. We were taken by air-conditioned bus to the diamond mine and the Big Hole…the largest man made hole in the world and site of the famous Kimberley mine. Diamonds were mined her by hand until 1914 when the huge hole filled up with water. Several efforts were made to tunnel in, but finally De Beers closed the mine. At present they are going through the tailings and have found several large diamonds. It was the policy at the time of the active mine to throw away any diamond smaller than 1 caret. Recently, they recovered a 95 caret diamond that had been thrown away. In addition to the mine there is a small village with the manager’s home, bars, blacksmith, bandstand, trains and even Barney Barnato’s boxing gym (He later became one of the richest men in the world through mining diamonds along with Cecil Rhodes). We had a great time here and saw the old headquarters of De Beers before getting back on Rovos Tail for another magnificent lunch. We really enjoyed the amazing scenery of the Karoo.  The train stopped 5 km before Matjiesfontein (pronounced Mike ease fon tane) to let off those who wanted to trek to the small historic village. The owner of the town, a Mr. Logan, negotiated with the railroads that every train between Johannesburg and Cape Town had to stop in Matjesfontein. There was a great museum at the rail station which included an entire collection of old cameras. We both have new digital cameras for the trip and it seems really strange how photography has progressed. In the old town are a hotel, a coffee shop, a church, several homes and gardens and a wonderful transportation museum filled with old trains and cars. We were there about 2 hours. As we rejoined the train the scenery changed dramatically and we were surrounded by mountains and green areas and streams. The train was a great way to see all of this and we enjoyed our amazing ride to Cape Town finishing up in the Wine Country as we got closer to Cape Town. At the Cape Town Station, the owner of the railroad, Rohan Voss met us at the station and greeted us effusively. What a great experience…we would do it again in a heart beat! We had great food, a great crew of 26 who all spoke English as well as the local African languages and such amazing service. I have never slept better than rolling along in a great suite on the Rovos Rail. We had a wonderful winelands guide. She was a great professional and so knowledgeable about the wineries around Cape Town. We told her we wanted to view wineries around Stellenbosch, Franshoek and Paarl.  These wineries are in valleys surrounded by incredibly high craggy mountains and often there is light rain which makes the area incredibly green.  The TERROIR is perfect for wine growing. The first winery we visited was Boschendal, owned by the golfer, Gary Player.  The estate goes back to the 1600s and was settled by Africaners and the architecture is Cape Dutch…a thatched roof and limestoned walls. After Boschendal we went to Thelema. They had a beautiful peacock hanging out watching the wine tasting. Next another old African Cape Dutch masterpiece in Stellenbosch…Lanzerac Manor.  We sat in the old kitchen and drank hot chocolate. This place was a stop on the TV show that I am addicted to (Amazing Race). After that we went to the Neil Ellis winery. This one is incredible…build a lake, waterfalls and a million dollar facility at the foot of a mountain and everyone will love it including the Wine Spectator Magazine. Next was the only winery that we had seen previously ….Rustenburg.  The owners have a great herd of Jersey cattle and named their prizewinning wine after their prize bull named Brampton.  The tasting room here is amazing and has a beautiful South African long curving bar. Next we went to a new winery called Kleine Zalze. They have a great new restaurant called Terroir and we really enjoyed the ambiance as well as the beautiful formal gardens. While driving around the wine country we were entertained not only by the fantastic scenery but also by the guide’s fascinating conversations about wine, wineries and personalities of the world. The last winery is featured in the latest Budget Travel magazine as a great South African winery.  We had to drive down an unpaved road to reach it, but this one looks like it could be in Tuscany with a tall tower and interior courtyard and fountain. The wine fermentation tanks are all insulated and the cellar is outstanding. Best of all was the wine pairing. They paired 3 of their wines with chocolate. My favorite was a Cabernet paired with a dark chocolate wafer with Kosher salt. They also have a flock of Egyptian geese at this winery. We spent a delightful 8 hours that passed in a flash.
P. Gammon, September 2005, Cypress, California, USA

Great job! Everything exceeded our expectations. We would change nothing, we had a great time. Thank you for everything. Hope to be able to go again!
S. Bury and A. Werry, September 2005, New York, New York, USA

We LOVED our trip to Africa. Ultimate Africa staff were very efficient, knowledgeable and friendly. They organized a memorable and fabulous holiday for us. We loved our time in Africa and met a lot of terrific people, both staff at camps and other guests.  Thanks so much for putting it together.
J. and P. Villiotte, September 2005, Hampden, Maine, USA

Cape Town was a great way to start the trip. In Namibia the dunes were very special to us. Moremi in Botswana is one of the most special places on earth. Ending at Victoria Falls was perfect. Everything went like clockwork – unbelievably so. I can’t imagine how it all was put together so well! The overall experience was exceptional! The organization, accommodations, food, service and staff everywhere were outstanding.
J. DiDonato and P. Lussier, September / October 2005, Poughkeepsie, New York, USA

We have traveled extensively, and have agreed that this trip was the BEST. Your arrangements and choice of camps were perfect. Each camp was just a little different, which is what we wanted. All were exquisite and every fine detail was taken care of. We were treated like royalty! Our favorites include: of course the numerous animals, mostly the leopard and her cub and the wild dogs; the elephant hide at Savuti; the African sunsets; and stargazing while listening to all the night time African sounds. I could go on and on. Thank you so much for arranging our trip of a lifetime. We've gotten the African bug, so we will start saving now for our next trip to Africa. We would certainly use Ultimate Africa again and I will tell family and friends to use you as well. EXCELLENT!!!
T. and P. Harmon, August / September 2005, Evansville, Indiana, USA

This was a spectacular trip for us and we were extremely pleased with the entire experience (*this couple enjoyed a more basic scheduled group camping safari in Botswana and Zimbabwe as opposed to most Ultimate Africa clients who book tailor-made safaris with permanent lodge and tented camp accommodations). I had been to Africa long ago, but my wife had not and was pretty anxious about it. She enjoyed the trip immensely, and wasn't afraid even when the hippos were snorting right by the tent! I can't really explain why camping in Africa always felt safer to me than camping in the Washington Cascades; probably because people scare me more than animals do. Although we were doing bare-ground camping, the accommodations were completely adequate. We have extensive camping experience and found the dome tents with cots quite comfortable. They were always clean and ready ahead of our arrival at the campsites. I would also like to report that there were no mosquitoes and only very few flies! The food was basic but more than good enough. I wasn't expecting gourmet meals prepared over a camp fire, but I certainly have no complaints about either the quality or the quantity of the food. The trip was kept efficiently (but comfortably) on schedule, with game drives starting promptly in the mornings and lasting until the light faded in the evenings. We were met where we expected to be, and transportation was as efficient and comfortable as we could ask for under the circumstances (we are talking rough roads here). I thought that the driver/trip leader did an exceptional job managing the deep sand. We only got stuck once and were able to easily push the truck out (just part of the adventure). I can't imagine how you could get around if it rained! The trip leader was also exceptionally knowledgeable about the birds and animals we saw. I thought he did an exceptional job spotting, considering the difficult driving he had to contend with at the same time. I can see the added advantage of having a spotter as well as a driver. One very nice touch: We were met on arrival at the Johannesburg airport and escorted to the shuttle to our hotel.  This was unexpected but extremely appreciated. I was not looking forward to figuring out how the ground transportation worked in a strange city after the very long flight. Having this taken care of for us gave us a very secure feeling about the trip in front of us. We felt that we would be well looked after. I know there is nothing you can do about this when booking a group trip but I felt we were very fortunate in our fellow travelers. We were surprised to find ourselves the only Americans in the group (two from the Netherlands, one from Belgium, four from Australia). Four of the group were older than us (we are 55 and 58) and three were younger. The youngest was in her early forties; the oldest was seventy-six(!). They were interesting people (as I think people who would undertake such a trip are inclined to be), and we all got along extremely well together. Victoria Falls were spectacular. Overall the roads were rough and the animals were very close at night – but it was the right trip for us! Hearing hippos and hyenas and leopards in the camp at night is an experience not to be missed! I am extremely pleased with the job that Ultimate Africa Safaris did for us from helping us select a safari to handling all the bookings and answering our many questions. Everything was as advertised and went very smoothly. I hope to do business with you again in the not too distant future. Thanks for the adventure!
C. and D. Cunningham, August 2005, Seattle, Washington, USA

Thank you so much for a really flawless trip – it was planned to perfection – we’re already talking about a return in 2008. We went to see the animals – which were awesome, but we were really captivated by the people just as much.
J. Vaughn and D. Creel, August 2005, Rochester, New York, USA

We had a wonderful time on our safari. The accommodations were amazing - the wildlife and guides were even better! We travel very frequently and this trip was, thus far, the best for all of us (kids too). As animal lovers (fanatics) it could not have been any better. The animals were close and phenomenal. The camps were adventuresome and the people / guides genuinely wonderful. We miss hearing the hippos grunting every night!  
J. Weiss and Family, August 2005, Lincoln, Rhode Island, USA

We had a wonderful time in South Africa last month.
I. Watson, July 2005, Los Angeles, California, USA

We had a wonderful time in Africa. To start with the three Orient Express camps in Botswana were simply fabulous. The food and the service were spectacular (as was the Wescliff in Johannesburg). We were very impressed with the quality of the cuisine so far away from major towns, and the places themselves were delightful. Sussi Lodge at Victoria Falls was also excellent. Rovoso Rail was spectacular and we enjoyed the relaxing ride. The Cape Grace Hotel was also a joy and I would recommend anyone to stay there. All in all a memorable experience.
B. and A. Sherrin, July 2005, Toronto, Ontario, Canada

Ian - our second trip with you was even better than the first which is really saying something! Again you delivered more than you promised (which was a lot). Your attention to detail (as before) is outstanding. What I most appreciate about you is your candor and honesty about questions - even the dumb ones! I trust your judgment and advice on anything to do with African travel. You were highly regarded out there as well Ian. Many people that we spoke to knew you and consider you to be one of the very best at what you do. We wouldn’t consider booking with anyone else and we will book with you again - count on it. Here is a recap of our trip: Kings Pool was absolutely teaming with wildlife. We saw at least 1,000 zebra and 500 elephants, warthogs, impalas, baboons, kudus, vervet monkeys, sable antelope, monitor lizards, chameleons, giant eagle owls, giraffes, roan antelope, spring hares, genets, African wild cat, mongoose, jackals, hippos galore (in front of our tent in the lagoon) and the most exciting of all wild dog puppies (7 of them - what a thrill to see!!). Chantelle – our guide was outstanding. This woman can wield a machete (necessary when going down roads where eles have broken down the trees) and without fear tracks lions on foot in the bush (who knew the lion was in camp!). Her charm, knowledge, humor, patience, hostess and tracking abilities were all fantastic. If she puts her mind to track down lions, count on finding them…she delivered a final siting of two adult males lounging beneath a tree on our way to the airstrip!  Tim’s request to fish was granted by her - we won’t ever forget the female ele charge on our way back – Wow!!! Food was excellent, service was great, loved the huge tents with private plunge pools and outdoor salas/showers - used them all! The hide is a unique experience, looking up (and I do mean up - way up…) at an elephant drinking less than a foot away is something that cannot be adequately described! Our private nature walk with Copper was so educational and exciting – spotted an ele, giraffe (with baby), impalas, baboons, zebra, waterbuck and hippos - all on foot. I now know how to distinguish between giraffe females and males by their dung. Who knows when this knowledge will come in handy!  I would return to this camp in a heartbeat. Xigera, a permanent water camp, was delightful. Saw the rare water antelope – a sitatunga first thing driving into the camp. Loved the idyllic island surroundings and getting away from the dust! Being poled in the mokoros was serene, peaceful and gave us such a different birds eye view (literally) of creatures like reed frogs, crocodiles, the breathtaking malachite kingfishers, eles and more. Boat motoring through the papyrus reeds and spotting hippos, crocs and tons of beautiful birds is exciting and fun. Tim had the time of his life fishing for tigers (arranged privately for him) and caught several much to his delight. Seeing the HUGE male leopard cross the bridge over the island at night (while we were eating dinner) was awesome. So was the ele family in camp that munched trees along the walkways. Returning to Mombo was like coming home. The absolute best experience here was discovering our little leopard cub (we were the first humans to discover her at about 5 days old with Rex, our guide, two years prior) was grown up and doing so well. Her baby picture has been my screen saver on my computer now for two years. But soon she will be known to the world as she is currently starring in her own documentary (soon to be released by the Jouberts - National Geographic). She is no stranger to trucks or cameras. In fact, I would suggest she fancies herself as a model. Seeing her draped above us in the V of a tree is a sight I will never forget - we were close enough it seemed she could have just dropped into the rover —instead she chose to climb down the tree and casually walk UNDER the rover. We were delighted and charmed not only to see her but to discover that she has been hunting well on her own now. We feel somehow attached to her and I can only saw that my heart was warmed to see her again. I thought - all is well with the world. My hope will be to see her yet again on a return trip to Mombo because I don’t think you can ever really go to Mombo without planning a return trip there. Our guide – Lee was not only one of the most charming and handsome guides ever (seriously ladies this guide is hot!) but is an incredible tracker and guide. Truly - one of the best guides ever. Got reacquainted with our old cheetah friends – the Steroid boys - two brothers (who were killing and munching a lechwe when we last saw them). This time we watched as they licked blood off each other’s faces and napped in the sun. It was wonderful to witness their obvious affection and bond for one another. Another highlight was being among a pride of 7 female lionesses and their 18 cubs (and one dad nearby). It was hard to keep track of all the activity of cubs nursing whichever female lioness teat they could find. I still chuckle watching the one little guy that fearlessly wouldn’t give his up to anyone. I bet I know who will be King of this pride some day… The food, service and experience of Little Mombo is unparalleled. Yes, this camp is worth the price! The trip to Cape Town was long and we were happy to finally arrive at the luxurious accommodations of the Cape Grace. The view from our room was breathtaking - Table Mountain and overlooking the harbor. Again, the service here was wonderful. The use of the hotel's driver and BMW 700 series car was a treat!  The food here again, is outstanding. Also if Indian food is your thing, DO NOT miss the restaurant Bukhara. Our guide for our three days there was Christine who was knowledgeable (we learned so much from her about the history, culture and people of Cape Town), patient and had a good sense of humor.  We went kayaking with the penguins (what an adventure!), walked on top of Table Mountain (the best view anywhere!) and the most scenic drive I have ever been - to the Cape Peninsula - absolutely breathtaking. Lunch in the wine country at Franschoek at La Petite Ferme goes on our list of the top 5 best lunches. Shopping at the waterfront and bargaining at the green market square was fun!  Tim says we brought back one of everything in Africa (we had to buy another suitcase to bring it all home). Bushmanskloof (Clanwilliam) was a long drive (but mostly scenic) to this out of the way desert canyon sandstone style oasis and private reserve. The grounds are lovely - the landscaping beautiful with loads of flowers, eucalyptus trees with bustling weaver colonies, swimming pools with nearby comfy lounge chairs, trickling waterfalls and new birds to discover (Malachite sunbirds - Wow!). They light up the surrounding canyon walls at night and there is private candlelit dining in the evening. Again, our guide Helen was gracious and passionate about her job. The Bushman 3,000 year old cave paintings are not to be missed. It is a humbling experience standing in the same place art and story telling were created from the indigenous people so long ago. We saw many new wildlife species here - Cape Mountain Zebra (beautiful), springbok, a large herd of eland (over 30 with babies), bontebok (dramatic markings like a painted horse), gemsbok (oryx), black wildebeest, caracal cat, and my new nocturnal favorite - the bat eared fox (super cute). We relaxed here with hot stone massages and spa treatments. Also took a 2-hour hike (the mountain trail) where we wondered if we would ever be seen or heard from again! Stumbled onto a cave painting during our hike. Stunning views of canyons and overlooks. Being able to walk freely without guides in the African wilderness without fear of predators was totally enjoyable and a great adventure. Sundowners at the “top of the world” were spectacular here. Lastly Le Quartier Francais in Franschoek (wine country - our fantasy is to buy vineyard property here one day). More scenic than Napa, this village and surrounding vineyards is nestled in a beautiful valley surrounded by jagged mountain peaks and stunning views. Le Quartier Francais is a quaint and delightful French country style inn. Again, the food and service was absolutely over the top. Their wine paired dinner is not to be missed (but share some of the wine if you want to be fully present the next day!). The inn is in the heart of the town. We so enjoyed our close proximity to everything. We wandered freely around town and were delighted to discover they were having a Bastille Festival that weekend. We joined right in sampling gastronomic and wine delights in the tents and marveled at the mix of happy people, berets, bands and wares displayed. Franschoek is a fairy tale small town with gracious charming people and great shopping - wonderful art galleries, boutiques and outdoor cafes. Le Quartier Francais is the perfect place to unwind and dust off before heading back. Sadly, we had to leave but know that one day we will return - maybe to retire there one day?
M. Moriarty and T. Bergman, June / July 2005, Sammamish, Washington, USA

It was perfect for our family - perfectly coordinated and seamless. I know it was a spur of the minute trip and you made it seem like it had been planned a year in advance.
The Todd family, July 2005, Friendswood, Texas, USA

We had extremely high expectations going into the trip. All were blown away. We had an awesome experience.
S. Hobbs and L. Parrish, June / July 2005, Huntington Beach, California, USA

It was fabulous, fantastic and wonderful, better than expected. Giles was a fabulous pilot and we loved having him to fly us around. We’d like him back when we do this again, probably 2 to 3 years from now. Sunday (at Little Ongava in Namibia) was the best camp manager by far. He was awesome. Loved the setting and the rooms were the best as well. Brandon from Mombo was the second best manager. Overall everyone loved Mombo the best for the combination of animals and people. We also had a great guide, Brooks. The best guide was Brian at Kings Pool, though. He captivated the kids with stories. In addition the camp staff worked with the kids to bake brown bread for me as a present. The staff was extremely accommodating and helpful. The rooms at Little Ongava were the best, and Mombo and Kings Pool were great too. Bottom line: We loved it and intend to do it again under the same arrangement of a private plane. We’d like to see other high end properties next time and repeat at least Mombo and Kings Pool. Thanks for arranging this great vacation for us, and I look forward to many more.
A. Bird and Family, June / July 2005, Downey, California, USA

You’re the best. Responsive and you know your stuff! Absolutely would book again! In fact, we wouldn't dream of using anyone else!
D. Rouchon and J. O'Malley, June 2005, Palm Harbor, Florida, USA

Unbelievable - exceeded all my high expectations.
Machol / Bisnow Family, June 2005, Washington DC, USA

The trip/experience exceeded my expectations in every way. The accommodations were spectacular and the itinerary was perfect. We appreciate your efforts.
The Misbin Family, June 2005, Lower Gwynedd, Pennsylvania, USA

Excellent, excellent, excellent. We will recommend Ultimate Africa and Ian Proctor to all our friends who would like to experience the beauty of Africa.
D. and D. Good, June 2005, Newport Coast, California, USA

Fantastic trip – would absolutely work with Ultimate Africa again.
L. Wayburn and M. Burns, June 2005, Corona Del Mar, California, USA

I don't think we ever properly thanked you for your work: all of the camps we stayed at were great and we had varied and interesting wildlife experiences at each of them.
M. Peck and D. Fernandez, June 2005, Urbana, Illinois, USA

We arrived home yesterday after what had to be one of the most extraordinary trips we've ever taken. I had to write to thank you for planning everything. The incredible wildlife, the huge changes in geography, the beautiful camps, the best guides and the extraordinary warmth and graciousness of the people we met everywhere is not something we will forget…and that was just in Botswana! Capetown also left an indelible mark on us. The morning we spent in the township taught us all a lot. What we found so remarkable was the spirit of the people in light of the conditions in which they live. Generally, when visiting these types of places, we feel uncomfortable because we are fortunate to have so much. We feel like those who are less fortunate think of us as "rich Americans" yet we felt genuinely welcomed. Rather than simply taking it all in, we truly felt like there was a connection. And because of that connection, anything is possible. It's just so astonishing to think that in a world where minds have the capacity to put people into space and design computers that allow us to speak across the world in seconds, just 10 years ago, philosophies like apartheid could still prevail. Of course, we knew all of that before we went, but seeing it made it personal rather than political. Our kids are not babies, but Rusty and I felt that the lessons and the experiences gained on a trip like this made it all worthwhile! And you make it so easy! I thought about this trip for years, and now, having done it, I have to go back! I'm already thinking about where we should go in another couple of years. Of course, I'll be in touch with you when the time comes. In the meantime, if you ever make it to the D.C. area, I hope you'll look us up and let us show you around our town! Again, many, many thanks!
N. Minkoff and Family, June 2005, Bethesda, Maryland, USA

I keep getting asked "did i enjoy the trip, was it worth the money, would I go back? I have to answer "Absolutely! You should go!” When we first arrived at the camps, we were always being asked “Is this your first trip to Africa?” We were surprised by this since we thought this would be our only trip to Africa. Now I understand why they asked this question since I would go back in a heartbeat. We met several people who had been before including a 79 year old women who was on her 17th safari. There is nothing like it anywhere on our side of the world. Where else can you be serenaded to sleep by hippos? The people of Botswana are wonderfully friendly and knowledgeable about their country and wildlife.  I truly enjoyed meeting each and everyone of them. On a couple of occasions around the campfire, we were treated to spontaneous singing and dancing. Oh how they can harmonize! Equally enjoyable as the animal sightings. The guides were very knowlegable and friendly and we felt we had made new friends by the end of our stay. Thanks for the recommendation on Jack's Camp. That had to be the most memorable experience for us, especially as it was our first camp. Experiencing the 360 degrees of African sunset on the Pan was unforgettable as was sleeping under the Milky Way and Southern Cross - Outstanding!!!!!! Best Service. Duba Plains wins the award for best guide. "Chief " is his name. He really enjoys what he does and has aspirations of becoming a wildlife videographer. At Duba the earthen paths were raked everyday so we could see what animals had visited our tent each day and night. Just to list a few: vervet monkeys, baboon, elephants, birds, rodents and many others. Very cool traversing the bridges made of fence posts and driving through the water with hippos and croc nearby. The Tsaro lion pride was down to 2 cubs due to a jealous sister lioness. Mombo: What luxury. We were treated very well. Had a fun picnic with elephants nearby. Watched a family of striped mongoose, African porcupine, warthogs, hippos, elephants, baboons, lions, Cape buffaloes, impala right in camp. Wins most luxurious bathroom. We were awakened to a very loud and unusual noise our first morning here which turned out to be an impala's alert call and that afternoon found lion prints under our tent. I could have stayed here another night. Thoroughly enjoyed watching 12 lion cubs communally feeding on the females of the pride. They are noisy babies. Duma Tau: We were lucky enough to see the wild dog pack that had not been spotted for 2 months make a kill two days in a row. We also enjoyed 3 cheetah sisters on siesta and a leopard scoping it's next meal from a tree. Witnessed a spotted hyena carry off an unlucky baboon one night.  It was estimated there was 200 head of elephant  in the area and we saw many calves. One was missing half it's trunk. It was beautiful to see the elephants come down to the river at sunset for a drink and a bath. Duma has 2 resident bull elephants who like to feed on the camp’s Mangosteen trees. The elevated walkway was destroyed one afternoon by “Mugabe the Elephant” as he was eating. The trusty staff had it repaired by brunch the next morning. We were also kept from being on time for tea by George the Elephant when he claimed the walkway for himself. What a great adventure!! The River Club was a great way to finish the trip. We would have like another day here just to rest with no activities.  Would definitely recommend people to visit the Samonga Village to understand how people live in Zambia. It is quite the eye opener. The Cape Grace was outstanding. Eddie the hotel driver was great. We went shopping at Green Point market and got caught in a torrential downpour. He showed up 2 hours early to pick us up without having to call him. I enjoyed talking to him about South African polictics. Thanks for the Cape Peninsula tour - It was well worth it…and the trip to Robben Island. We can't thank you enough for the work you did and the patience you showed in answering all our questions. We were met everystep of the way and led by the hand. I enjoyed being pampered. Thanks VERY VERY much Ian and staff. Recommending you to all my friends. Hope to do this again in the future. Love to all.
C. Frandsen, June 2005, Boise, Idaho, USA

Just wanted to drop you a note that we enjoyed our trip enormously. What a totally amazing experience! All the camps were great, and all the transportation was flawless. Not a single flight was late :) Thanks for helping me with the arrangements. It was perfect. Please don't hesitate to use me if you have prospective clients who need a reference.
J. Lin, June 2005, Los Angeles, California, USA

Thank you so much for the outstanding advice and recommendations you provided. Ultimate Africa staff were very knowledgeable and helpful. We had the most fantastic time and send well wishes from your many friends we met whilst on safari. We also enjoyed meeting other travelers whom you booked. We will be contacting you soon about another visit. It was pristine.
L. Smith, May / June 2005, Boise, Idaho, USA

I just wanted to drop you a short note to thank you for setting this trip up for us and to let you know that we had a GREAT time. When we started planning this trip we knew nothing about how to do it. Your expertise, guidance and suggestions really made this a trip worth remembering. Given the budget and time constraints we gave you, you gave us something special. Everyone took really good care of us. The logistics of our travel were all taken care of and handled really well. We got to see almost everything we hoped to see and a lot of things we never expected. Our guides were outstanding. The food was memorable as well. Again, many thanks.
D. Aldrich, May 2005, Keizer, Oregon, USA

It was such a great trip. We started in Cape Town. We were pretty much a mess - very tired and jet lagged. We were blessed with outstanding weather so we were able to go to Table Mountain in the morning. The staff got us a taxi -- we did not have to lift a finger. Took some post card looking photos that day. The breakfasts were the best we ever had!!! Lots of choices, great fruit and service. Nice garden view. Wow! (We are generally pretty budget travelers and this was very upscale for us). On our day of check out, they gave us a wake-up call and sent coffee to our room. This was a nice touch and very appreciated. Our second day also had great weather. When we got to Cape Town we were not sure what we were going to do. A lot depended on the weather and how well we coped with the long flight and time change.  Turns out after a 14 hour sleep we were ready by 8:30 AM to do a Cape Tour. The staff of the hotel got us on an “African Eagle” tour starting at 9:00 AM. Talk about quick turn around. It was an OK tour. The mini bus was like new, only 7 of us on the tour (full bus) and good sound system. The driver/guide was OK.  We got 2 hours at the Cape on our own and had time with the penguins (one of my personal goals for the trip). Only one hour at Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens (Dona is a plant person and this only wet her appetite). I think we could have had a better tour had we worked with you before hand, but we were concerned about our condition after the flight and the weather and did not want to be locked in just in case either was bad. The third day we spent at Kirstenbosch on our own (seven full hours). Wow. The weather was changing. We did not get any rain, but the clouds were moving all around and changing all the time. More things in bloom than we thought there would be. We saw some real nice Protea in bloom as well as many others plants.  Kirstenbosch is a world-class garden and the location took our breath away. We loved all our Cape Town experiences. Three days were not enough and there is so much more of South Africa we would like to see and experience. We then visited Botswana. We started at Chitabe Trails Camp. Within a quarter mile of the airstrip we saw our first giraffe in the wild. This is how we wanted to see the animals. We had not even got to our fist camp and we were already happy. We were greeted with a welcoming song in Setswana and shown to our elegant tent room - very clean bright and airy. We were given a good briefing and afternoon tea followed by our first game drive. Lots of impala, giraffe and birds. Then we found a pack of wild dogs with their gorgeous, multi-colored coats and large ears. Not until later in the trip did we realize how special this viewing was (we did not meet any guests in any other lodge who had been lucky enough to see these animals). We had our first sundowner and the best sunset of the trip. Then, the full moon rose. It was magic. We had a little social around the campfire before dinner and a huge herd of elephants marched in front of us to a water hole. The line extended from one end of the horizon to the other and included several babies. They were all outlined in the moonlight with some of them trumpeting. The morning drive gave us more wildlife viewing. In the afternoon we saw a herd of 6 elephants including a very young baby. We were told by the matriarch in no uncertain terms to keep our distance - I loved it. Got some good pics. Wildebeests, zebras and a large baboon troop. Late in the day we got a real treat - at least two-dozen hippos in a large water hole within 50 feet of our Rover. We got quite a show. On the night drive back we got good views three wild cats (caracal, civet and a large spotted genet). Last morning drive we got ostrich, kudu and a great view of a Bateleur eagle. We were reluctant to leave. We had been really well taken care of. This was a great introduction to the bush. The food was plentiful and very good also.  They met our vegetarian request very well. We really liked the small nature of the camp. If I had it to do again, I think we would have liked to spend a day or two in the bush blind. When we got there a couple was just leaving for a bush walk to the blind for a two-day trip. When we later saw the blinds and the locations, we thought that might be a real exciting way to experience the bush. We then moved to Tubu Tree Camp. Our tent here was outstanding. We had lots of room, great deck, and a view that would not stop. One afternoon we identified five birds we had never seen before right from our deck. The musical greeting was outstanding. Several songs with the best harmony we had ever heard. These folks are good. They gave us more one night around the campfire. It was a highlight. We saw lots of water and other birds here. The highlights here we the two walks we took. We got to see the bush up close. We saw lots of zebra, lechwe, vervet monkeys and baboons. Our last drive was the best. The guide spotted a recent lion kill. It was pretty well consumed by the lions and hyenas, but he said it was pretty fresh. He got us back in the Land Rover and we tracked the lions for about 45 minutes. Finally we went to the water hole and backtracked from there. When we were about 10 feet from them, I finally saw the ears of a big female lion through the grass. Hard to believe how well they can hide in plain site. It was a pride of 15, of whom we saw 7 or 8. We got to sit and photograph them for quite a while, very close up. We had seen our first lion on the night drive the night before, but this one counted! These guides did a great job tracking and gave us a real thrill. At Savute Camp Richard was our guide and he was very good. Different than the other two. Much more academic and we learned a lot about the geology and history of the area from him. He was a good tracker and we had him to ourselves for the last two drives, which was fun. The landscape here was much more what I expected to see in Africa. It was still early in the dry season, so the animals were not as concentrated as we were told they would be later in the season. Still, we saw some pretty large herds of elephants, zebra, impala, kudu and our first Cape buffalo. Great lion viewing and a few more hippos. The night drives were fun here because by now the moon was not as full and not rising so soon so we could see the stars really well. One highlight was the last night drive when we stopped turned out the lights and sat among a herd of elephants who were grazing around us. Just Dona, our guide, the elephants and I. Wow. On another night drive we saw an aardwolf and a mother child pair of porcupine. We got a chance to go to the blind by the water hole and get some great close up pics of the zebra and elephants there. We also got a little digital movie of two elephants fighting at the water hole.  That was pretty cool. The food was outstanding and we had lots of vegetarian fare. At Victoria Falls we decided to curb our budget and stayed at the Zambezi Sun Hotel for 1 night. Our room was as close to the falls as you could get. It was a nice room. Staying at the Zambezi Sun was nice in the sense that it was so close to the falls, but was a little too commercial for our taste. I would rather have stayed in a river lodge / camp. The falls themselves were fun. We got in after 3:30 PM and went to our room, dropped off our stuff and ran to the falls. What a great walk. It was still pretty warm so we just walked through. Got soaked and walked the whole trail on the Zambia side. It was fun. Walked back along the river to the Royal Livingstone to dry off. It was nice, but it got dark early. We were reluctant to explore on our own after dark. We got up early the next morning and spent a lot of time around the falls. This was poor planning on our part. If we had it to do over again we would not spend so little time here. We saw lots of hippos and elephants along the river and understand there are a lot of crocs in the river. I would like to have taken an ultralight flight over the falls and to have spent some time on a river cruise (or camp) to see some of the other wildlife here. We enjoyed everything we did; we just did not have enough time. Overall our reservation was handled wonderfully well! We could not have put this trip together without your help and knowledge. You listened and give us what we asked for.  I am a worrier by nature. I need not have worried. Everything worked like clockwork. Everyone we worked with was friendly, helpful and efficient. I can't say enough good things for the folks that made this work. It was all good! Ian was most helpful in taking a couple of novice travelers and designing an individual itinerary to meet our specific requests and needs. We had a great trip that meet and exceeded our expectations. Ian patiently answered all of our questions and provided very useful information on when to go and what to pack. The logistics of the trip were well designed and delivered with the utmost efficiency. We were very pleased.
B. Aldrich, May 2005, Keizer, Oregon, USA

Here is a report on our recent trip: In Cape Town at the Cape Radisson where we were all upgraded to 2 bedroom / 2 bathroom suites on the waterfront. We loved it and would recommend it to others. At Little Kulala wildlife viewing was limited (as expected). Our purpose was to see the dunes and the desert. Both were spectacular and we loved it. At Little Ongava the accommodations were fabulous. The wildlife viewing was very good – particularly the eleven white rhino at one time – Great! Jao Camp the staff were excellent and the wildlife viewing very good. At Mombo Camp we saw the most diversity and highest numbers of wildlife. Some of the most memorable wildlife viewing moments took place here. Food, service and guides were excellent. Kings Pool Camp the accommodations were second to only Little Ongava and the chef was superb! The River Club staff were fantastic, the service outstanding and the food excellent. The order of the trip was perfect. The diversity of the locations, experiences and accommodations was great. First class all the way. Ultimate Africa was knowledgeable, accommodating, and resourceful. The staff at all levels were exceptional and went out of their way to make our trip the best it could be. Private dining at most locations was special and we appreciate the extra effort that took. It was the trip of a lifetime. We had high expectations and they were exceeded! Thanks!
A. Pelgorsch and S. Evans, May 2005, Brooklyn, New York, USA

I wanted to express our gratitude for a job well done! What a trip we had! All of the advance planning really took shape from the time we landed in Cape Town to the time we departed. The whole trip was seamless and the staff at each camp was absolutely top notch. Each camp has its own merits and we wouldn’t have traded any of them as the visits to several camps gave us a taste of the various areas which featured very different game, birdlife and safari experiences. The accommodations and food throughout our stay were outstanding. We cannot thank you enough for arranging the private dining at each camp – it made the trip so special and allowed us privacy and intimacy we were looking for. I also appreciate your attention to detail in planning our trip and your suggestions and input proved invaluable. You are the best! Good job! Wishing you continued success and we will definitely refer you to our friends. The Cape Town Radisson Waterfront was the perfect place to begin our trip. Great location! Little Kulala in Sossusvlei, Namibia was superb. Fabulous star gazing at night. Little Ongava at Etosha was absolutely stunning and offered wonderful wildlife viewing. Jao Camp in Botswana offered fantastic food, perfect staff and activities were well planned. Lovely to meet the owners! Mombo Camp in Moremi – wow things only got better! Mombo was the best! We really enjoyed our stay. Kings Pool Camp had lots to do and the chef was the best! He provided us with recipes for several of his greatest dishes! The River Club at Victoria Falls – wow – what a way to end the trip. Utterly fantastic, great setting and perfect hosts! If I could change anything I would have stayed longer as the camps were so nice it is a shame not to have enjoyed them more! Absolutely one of the most exciting and fulfilling adventures ever. Ultimate Africa Safaris and the African continent did not disappoint. From sunrise to sunset we were treated like royalty and our days were filled with new adventures without a worry in the world. Truly a trip of a lifetime and full of fantastic memories.
D. Maguire,May 2005, San Diego, California, USA

You were right! We did have an absolutely incredible trip to Africa. You provided us all with a trip of a lifetime. Everyday was more outstanding than the last. The accommodations were luxurious and the staff members at each property were outstanding! You promised me a trip I would not forget and you did just that! We all are grateful to your thoughtfulness in being sure that all of our reservations were put to rest. Experiencing what you have created was truly remarkable. From the time we arrived in Cape Town until we left Johannesburg for home we did not have to worry about a thing!! The perfect vacation. We all felt as though each day was reserved to enjoy the moment and we did. Staff members at each camp were top notch - full of energy, eager to teach and make our stay comfortable. The food was incredible as well. All of this out in the middle of nowhere! How incredible is that? We will be forever grateful to Ultimate Africa for creating one of the most incredible vacations imaginable - our trip will be hard to top! We look forward to planning a return trip. Again, thank you for all that you did to ensure our trip was unforgettable and accept our sincerest wishes for continued success in all that you do. Best regards.
D. Carden, May 2005, Long Beach, California, USA

Our trip to Africa was incredible. Thank you for all your help. We enjoyed all the camps. Each one being a different experience. Savute was a great place to start and our guide there was outstanding. The overnight at the hide and the bushwalk was a highlight. Kwetsani was beautiful and perhaps my favorite lodge as it was so romantic. Our guide there was also excellent. Chief’s Camp, which we specifically requested, had wonderful game viewing and varied terrain but our guide was a disappointment. He had neither a bird book or binoculars and was not very communicative. All the best….Can’t wait to go back
B. King and W. Byers, May 2005, Lake Oswego, Oregon, USA

Not knowing what to expect it was great the way everything was so seamless. Overall we preferred the vibe of Wilderness Safaris to Abercrombie and Kent at Chief’s Camp although the food at Chiefs was exceptional. The guides at Savute and Kwetsani (Wilderness Safaris) were much better than the guide at Chief’s. We would definitely do it again and have Ultimate Africa to book everything. Thanks for making it so enjoyable!
D. and T. Smith (traveled with B. King and W. Byers), May 2005, Portland, Oregon, USA

Extremely positive experience. We felt well taken care of before and during the trip.
C. Ainsworth and C. Houser, May 2005 Brooklyn, New York, USA

The best vacation we have ever taken.
D. Scott and K. Mackay, May 2005, Stevensville, Maryland, USA

We had a fantastic time - as always. Everything you arranged went perfectly - no hitches anywhere. You know I am never happy unless I am planning another trip!!!! Don't think it will be 2006 but definitely 2007!!!! Thanks again for all you did.
B. Garrett and Family, April / May 2005, Ellsworth, Maine, USA

I'm sure you are used to getting the familiar expressions of awe and appreciation from your customers. This will be no different since words escape me to describe such an amazing and exciting introduction to Africa. The trip went flawlessly for three weeks and we all felt that the care and attention given prior and during our stay was a major part of that. Twelve hundred animals later, the Dow family is still in a bit of post-safari shock syndrome. We were very impressed with the camps and staff were friendly and professional; transportation and general communication were always clear and punctual. Your recommendations in Cape Town were perfect and quite practical for getting us around. What a beautiful place! In a nutshell we could not have had a more exciting and at the same time relaxing family vacation. Our girls truly had as much fun as we did from Botswana to Capetown. Peter and I vow to return soon...it became very apparent that we've just scratched the surface. Thanks so much for all your time and effort to organizing a memory-filled experience.
P. Dow and Family, April 2005, Seattle, Washington, USA

We had a great time in southern Africa. The schedule and places you had set up for us - wow! After the initial shock of the 5:00 AM (summertime) wake up call at the camps, we just loved the early morning light (and the sunsets). We were very fortunate that we there when there were very few people in the camps, from the point that we got our own private vehicle except twice and that was perfect. We could do what we wanted with the guide. All of our guides were fantastic and really made the safaris. The animals were so close and we still cannot believe the sights and sounds we were privileged to witness. A friendly greeting at each transfer point and at the camps certainly relives the stress of being in a different land. It was a tremendous learning experience. All camp personnel, no matter their position, were genuinely friendly and helpful which made the entire experience so wonderful. Ultimate Africa - you are doing a great job! Mombo Camp, was so luxurious, it was No. #1 in that respect. All the animals were right outside our room, it seemed, and probably the No. #1 camp to go to if you could only go to one. Our real favorite all around was Duba Plains. With the exception of no leopards or giraffes, which we saw at the other camps, so we did not feel deprived, the scenery was spectacular as you could see for ever and ever. We had our own vehicle and terrific guide, Chief. He off-roaded all the time,and we went through lakes and up and down hills. The animals, especially herds of buffalo and elephants were everywhere, and we saw lions all the time! The camp, whilst not as elegant as Mombo was very comfortable, and the food excellent. The staff at all camps were excellent. We loved the River Club at Victoria Falls. We took a helicopter ride over the Falls, and because the Falls were not in full flood we had fantastic views. The Grace Hotel in Jo-Burg was lovely - we were especially impressed that they suggested an African Restaurant in downtown Jo-Burg for dinner and arranged a car for us, instead of suggesting their restaurant. It was a great experience - Mobo in Newtown. A very mixed area, apparently, and the restaurant was next to a musical theater, and the musicians came in to the restaurant in between their acts and played for us - they were great. And that was the actual date of my 60th birthday! The Cape Grace Hotel in Cape Town was wonderful. Its location on the waterfront was perfect, and we were so impressed with the waterfront development. We enjoyed the restaurants and shopping. We had to buy a suitcase to bring home everything we bought. All the tours you set up for us were perfect; we were met everywhere on time and escorted and helped if we needed it. The tours in and around Cape Town were very interesting, and again, the tour guides were so nice and gave us so much historical background on South Africa. Robben Island was a fascinating experience. Everything was wonderful, even the weather. We had a little rain here and there, but nothing that interfered with us, and we did not have the very hot heat that you can get this time of the year. I received champage and birthday cakes everywhere. Thank you for making my 60th Birthday a birthday to remember - in more ways than one! We have already given out the name of Ultimate Africa Safaris as the safari company to go with when planning a trip to Africa, and we certainly will to anyone who asks us about our trip. We look forward to planning another trip with you in the future. Again, thank you for making everything work so effortlessly from our point of view.
J. and J. Perkins, January 2005, San Rafael, California, USA