Tanzania Captured Our Hearts

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.

Kristen K. (USA)

December 15, 2016

“A2T brings a level of professionalism to every aspect of the safari trip preparation process. We asked for a number of specifics (bean bags for the cameras, an extra battery to power a CPAP) and all was in order in the safari vehicle when we got there. David was asking why we went with A2T and I mentioned using some of these questions to sort through almost 2 dozen tour operators that I contacted on the way to choosing A2T. Having so much information available from A2T at every step of the process, including how to fill out the visa forms (and a link to the form), how much cash to bring for various things, how to pack, etc. makes what is otherwise a complicated and somewhat atypical trip to prepare for very straightforward. Karen spoke with us about why one would wish to choose one versus a different lodge and we found that each one brought a unique, wonderful experience on our trip.”