I think it is really hard to see all of the things a guide does for you on safari until you stop and think and just reflect on that day’s events. I will say that Wilfred is a master of all things seen and unseen. It is obvious he is skilled at getting us from one place to another (he never did tell me how he knows which roads to take through the Serengeti -there are no road signs!), he can conjure a lion or two around any bend in the road or a python in a tree hiding under a nest, he can answer a thousand questions about animals, birds, people, culture, food, language and anything else you can think of (he also has a well-read animal book he isn’t afraid to share) and he advises on planned start times and activities like a pro. But it’s those little things, the more subtle things that really make a trip become a true experience. The way he helped my daughter into the jeep each morning, shutting the door to make sure she was secure; the firm but gentle reminder not to stray from the jeep to ensure we didn’t get eaten by lions; managing all of the lunches and breakfasts with just the right things we liked to eat; the bush lunch he orchestrated just to surprise us (it brought tears of joy to my eyes); the way he introduced us to people we might not have had a chance to meet; the phone calls to the properties ahead of our arrival so we would be greeted by one, two, or many smiling faces; his discreet way he would advise us on cultural behaviors – helping us to be comfortable and respectful of those around us; and the way he engaged with each of us individually and as a family – my children absolutely loved Wilfred. The guide makes the experience and when we think of Tanzania we will always think of Wilfred.
“My overall experience with Access 2 Tanzania was excellent. Karen was great from the start until the end of the safari trip. She was prompt in responding to all emails and phone calls. She was able to answer every question we had and was very knowledgeable of all aspects of the trip. The itinerary of the safari was planned perfectly around everything that we wanted to see and do. In addition, I cannot say enough good things about our guide, Noel. Noel was also very knowledgeable of all of the wildlife and navigating the areas of the safari that we went on. He was also a pleasure to be around for the entire week and made us feel very comfortable with everything, including checking in with the lodges, the hot air balloon, and our flight out of the Serengeti. Noel made it a point to make us happy and satisfied with all aspects of the safari. I would absolutely recommend anyone taking a trip to Tanzania to use Access 2 Tanzania and to also specifically request Noel as their guide!”