We are planning a trip to Africa and want to take a tour. have received pamphlets from Tauck and Brendans. Would be interested in opinions as to which is the better tour company between the two. Also trying to decide between destinations in Africa where we can see animals and wildlife. All thoughts would be welcomed.

First, when to go and where.

http://www.africa-adventure.com/dsp_besttime.html

http://www.bornfreesafaris.com/best_travel.htm

http://www.kiliwarriors.com/ --this one is for Kenya and Tanzania and has perfect trips for each month

Here’s a post on Brendan safari that went well.
http://fodors.com/forums/threadselec...p;tid=34714347


Here’s one on Tauck, not a report, but general remarks. Not that complimentary.
http://fodors.com/forums/threadselec...p;tid=34823588

Another on Tauck that is mixed
http://fodors.com/forums/threadselec...p;tid=34823588

I looked at Brendan’s and Tauck’s Kenya/Tanzania trips. I’d choose the 16-day, $6000 Kenya Horizons with Serengeti extension over Tauck’s shorter trip. The properties Brendan uses are mostly Serena, very nice. Tauck is a high end company but looks over priced at $8190.

Since you mentioned a tour, I’d look at companies that specialize in tours to Africa. Micato is similar in cost to Tauck. Go2Africa in South Africa and Africa Adventure Company in Ft. Lauderdale both put together group trips.

When you mentioned you want a tour, that indicates to me that you want a driver/guide instead of a self drive. But it is also very easy, cost competitive for 2 or more, and common to do a private trip in East Africa where you have your own vehicle and your own driver/guide just for you. Then you get exactly what you want. That is what I did on my first Kenya-Tanzania trip. Perhaps Brendan could even arrange that for you. Otherwise there are many companies that have been used successfully by Fodorites.

Take a look at these indexes of trip reports

Southern Africa
http://www.fodors.com/forums/threads...p;tid=34772027

East Africa
http://www.fodors.com/forums/threads...p;tid=34860283
Please post again on this thread as you gather ideas and make your plans.

Lynn, I think your post should be a permanent fixture at the top of the page!

I agree! Very comprehensive and full of great info, I love it!

The comprehensive award goes to Lynda for the continually updated East Africa Index. Then when you know when and where you are going, her packing list.

I should warn you there remains a continuing controversy regarding her packing list's suggestion for a mini stapler.

However, on my last trip an occasion arose where it would have come in handy if I had followed her advice.