How to choose a reputable safari company!

When searching for a safari company we would always recommend trying to book with a local reputable company. Not only does it support sustainable tourism, but it cuts out the third party, making it much cheaper for you.

There are huge numbers of safari companies operating from Tanzania and it's important to note that not all of them are reputable and there are cases where people have been scammed. Unfortunately there is not a 'quick way' to find a reputable company (unless you go with a recommended company!), it will require research, research and more research! However we provide our top tips below on how to find a reputable company!

OUR SAFARI COMPANY RECCOMENDATION:

Check out the safari company we used and grab your DISCOUNT code for them here! They were absolutely fantastic and they are TALA accredited.

Here are our top tips for finding a reputable safari company in Tanzania:

1. Use a recommended safari company from friends or family. Click the link above or check out our 'safari company recommendation and discount code' travel tip!

2. Check and ask to see if the safari company has any memberships or accreditations. In Tanzania this could be:

   • A 'TALA' license (Tourism Business License issued by the Tanzanian government)

   • A 'TATO' license (Tanzania Association of Tour Operators)

   • A 'ATTA' license (The African Travel and Tourism Association)

3. Check to see if they have a physical presence in the form of an office (which is usually based in Arusha), as well as an online presence. Be very wary of companies who only have an 'online' presence.

4. Check and read ALL the company reviews on Trip Advisor, Google and Facebook. If they are a reputable company they should have a large number of 5 star reviews. Avoid companies who may only have 5-10 reviews!

5. Make sure they have a good cancellation policy that you are comfortable with.

1. Make sure they have a recognized method of payment that you are comfortable with. Check how they wish to receive payments; it' usual to pay a deposit up-front and then pay the final balance before your trip starts.

2. Don't be alarmed if companies ask you to pay the final balance on arrival in cash. This is usually to avoid international bank transfer fees, but you may not be comfortable carrying that amount of cash with you (we certainly weren't!). Just tell the company that you aren't comfortable doing that and see what alternative methods they offer. It shouldn't be a problem to arrange final payment a week before your trip via an online transfer.

3. Look for companies who have a fleet of vehicles and employ a number of guides.

4. Reputable companies should spend the time designing your perfect itinerary for you and take the time to answer ALL the questions you have.

5. Check to see if the accommodation the safari company has recommended know of the safari company and can confirm they regularly work with them.

If you have any doubt and are not comfortable booking with a local safari company, then we would recommend you book with a well-known third party travel agent for peace of mind.

Red Flags to look out for!

1. If you find a safari company whose rates seem insanely cheap in comparison to other companies, we would exercise extreme caution here! Don't be pulled in by cheap prices. These are likely to be scams.

2. Poor communication. This is always a huge one and we always play close attention to whether or not they are answering our questions properly and professionally or avoiding disclosing information.

3. No social media presence is also another red flag indicator! Most businesses these days have a fairly good online presence in the form of websites and social media platforms.

4. No physical office presence. They should have a physical office, address and phone number. (They are usually located in Arusha for the Northern Circuit Safaris).

5. A lack of transparency about their itineraries and accommodation. You should be able to see exactly where you are going, exactly where you are staying, everything that is includes and any extras you may need to pay for.

6. Pressure to pay everything upfront rather than asking for a deposit.