04 Nov 2022
I really wanted to give this 5 stars. Loved working with a local company to create a custom 10 day safari to 4 parks. A skype call with the owner, Peter, helped me choose an itinerary, lodging, and other activities in our price point. But the lack of honest communication about payments left me confused about the company's operations.
The Good:
*Our guide Simon was friendly, knowledgeable, safe, flexible, professional. He was with us for 10 days and we never tired of spending time with him. Showed up on time or early everywhere and kept the van clean, full of waters, and accommodated me with safe bathroom and snack stops on all of our long drives! Simon is ten stars - the tourism industry is lucky to have him.
*The recommended lodges were all WONDERFUL (Ashnil and Serena especially) and the parks were great.
The Bad:
*Communication seemed to lag as the days before the trip approached. Maybe this would have come in due time, but I had to request packing lists, meeting arrangements, guide information, and other logistics before even starting. (Everything was provided promptly and did go off without a hitch - I just needed to be able to plan for it).
*On day 4, our itinerary was switched for days 4-10. We saw all the same parks but in a different order than planned. We inquired as to why out of curiosity but were never provided an explanation. It didn't change anything, but was odd.
*On day 4 we were asked to cover the entrance fee (US $155) to Park #2 despite this being included in our pre-paid trip cost. It was a Sunday, banks were closed, so we did, with promise from owner Peter that we would be refunded in person on our way to the next park. Three days later, with no progress towards our refund, we were again asked to pay US $155 to exit Park #3. This time we refused, insisted that the guide work with Flash Mc Tours to transfer the money to the Park account or direct transfer to the guide so he can pay. After 30 minutes trying to locate the owner (Peter), we were told he would send the money. 90 minutes later, some of the money was sent, and hours later, the remainder. We pressed on. Arrival to the Park #4 was smooth with entrance fees paid. Days 7-10 we periodically inquired about our refund, and each time were told it was being sent within the hour. It never was. The refund finally arrived by electronic transfer to our guide 3 hours before the safari tour ended.
It seems only one other review (from 7 years ago) mentions this sort of thing, although that group was asked to cover $2000 USD and missed a day of their tour. Perhaps hold the KATO number and reach out if you're asked to double-pay on your tour? Phone: 0722 434845 / 0713 762076. Email: [email protected]. Also couldn't hurt to confirm with your guide before departing that all park entrance fees are paid!