Aboutime2008

Has anyone been on the Micato Grand Safari ?

We are considering this for a trip at the end of January 2008 -

Was it good value, prices for 2008 are increasing by quite an amount 15-20% ? What were the highlights ? Any concerns with the trip ?

Thanks for any comments

ShayTay

$12,800 plus 15 to 20% (land only) for 13 days in Kenya and Tanzania...whew! You can probably put this together yourself for half that. If that's not your cup of tea, you could contact someone like Sandi at Africa Serendipity for a quote. She's an East Africa expert and a regular contributor on this Forum.

sandi

... and that's without the almost $2,300 internal air!

So, over $1,000/day person and a group tour at that!

Aboutime2008

Yes - $17.5K was the figure quoted!! we will be looking elsewhere - any suggestions on a reliable private safari outfitter in Kenya/Tanzania, so many choices out there, would like to stay in v.nice lodges however the goal is to see as much wildlife as possible, ideally with a company that has good photography guides/capabilities. Would have liked to go on one of the Andy Biggs tours however all full for Jan/Feb 2008.

atravelynn

In case you did not see this thread, it contains links that may help. I cannot recall if those who have done reports on Micato trips did the Grand Safari or other ones.

http://fodors.com/forums/threadselec...p;tid=35067130

Aboutime2008

Thanks for the link - had already reviewed Lynda S and Hausfrau's reviews of their experiences, clearly a premier operator, just not sure about the Grand Safari. Will continue in my search for the ideal January/Feb safari.

Africa06

Yes. The Micato Grand Safari is outstanding in every way. Not a single concern. A premier price, for a premier experience. It just depends what you're looking for. I would do it again in a heartbeat if I could. I assure you that Micato will not disappoint!

atravelynn

Abouttime2008,

Can you list the itinerary?

Aboutime2008

Nairobi - Norfolk Hotel (2nts)
Amoseli - Tortilis Tented Camp (2nts)
Mt Kenya Safari Club - (2nts)
Masai Mara - Bateleur or Governor's Il Moran (2nts) includes balloon
Serengeti - Kirawira Tented Camp or Grumeti River Camp - (2nts)
Ngorongoro Crater Lodge (2nts)
Nairobi - departure

Total of 15 days : includes 7 flights

Africa06

Yes, this was my itinerary. Every place is special - my favs were Bateleur and Ngorongoro Crater Lodge - they are truly exquisite. The Mt Kenya Safari Club is currently under renovation, this is the only thing that was a slight a shame. That said, the work going on when I was there this summer was very far from our rooms, and our experience was absolutely undisrupted. Our cottage was huge and lovely (and quiet - wouldn't have known anything was going on) - with a fireplace, sitting area, etc. The dining room was also untouched (and lovely). Everyone was incredibly friendly. I would repeat the itinerary again despite. Do seriously consider Micato if you are inclined. And this itinerary is wonderful. Truly, they do a very special job - every single person in our group loved it, and would tell you the same. I can't speak highly enough. Additionally, the Tour Directors are extremely well trained and a pleasure to be with - I don't think there is a question they can't answer.