Mike is an award-winning wildlife writer, former editor of Travel Zambia magazine and author of the Bradt Guide to Southern African Wildlife. The knowledge and professionalism his team possesses is next to none. Years of guiding, of teaching guides and of spectacularly photographing the Kreuger's wildlife has taught Neil to get inside the heads of the living things he sights and of understanding and to amazingly predict what their next steps will be. BEARDED HERON SAFARIS (Skukuza) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go, Hotels near Kruger Mpumalanga Intl Airport (MQP), Hotels near Arathusa Safari Lodge Airport (ASS), Full-Day Private Tour of the Six Emirates with Hotel Pick Up, Gobustan & Mud Volcanoes, Fire Temple, Burning Mountain (by TES Tour), The most exclusive boat party in the city Rio Boat Club - Every Monday, Zakynthos All Day Tour Shipwreck beach, view point-Blue Caves, Chauffeur: Malacca to Kuantan Transfer [Van]. We spotted leopard and lion on our first drive toward Pafuri and Crooks Corner. No questions have been asked about this experience. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Comfortable accommodations are in the Kruger Rest Camps and Bush Camps. Can't say enough good things about this company - from the extremely responsive interactions when booking (and getting answers to questions) to the daily trips with Neil (a walking encyclopaedia of animal and plant knowledge) and the in-the-bush setting of the accommodations and meals. Domestic flights, Kruger conservation / entrance / Wildcard fees, travel insurance, items not described above and personal items. Roan and Neil filled our stomachs with the most amazing bush meals and Neil filled our brains and senses with his knowledge, love and passion for the Kruger. Bearded Heron Safaris Phone and Map of Address: 191 Sixth Ave, Edenvale, 1609, South Africa, Gauteng, Business Reviews, Consumer Complaints and Ratings for Travel & Tours in Gauteng. This was our 2nd trip in 3 years with Bearded Heron Safaris. Driving around with animals like elephants and giraffe and zebras and lions close to you is quite a unique experience indeed. Great early morning drives, followed by hearty breakfasts, then another late morning drive; early afternoons off (in the heat of the day), and then more viewing in the late afternoon before relaxing evening dinners outside. I thought I would go once and scratch if off my bucket list, but the combination of seeing the animals and getting the educational/historical information real-time from the guide is what makes it such an unforgettable experience. and took us to see them. If gorilla trekking and chimpanzee tracking are on your bucket list, this safari will be perfect for you. Please contact them soon to learn more about your trip of a lifetime! We arrived and met Neil and his assistant, Roan and off we went to explore the Kruger again. Ulas. The trip was a long 29 hours at that point and we were exhausted. The 'rest camp' accomodations were fine and the meals that they prepared were very good.During the entire trip, and particularly while on the extensive game drives, what was most impressive was Neil's encyclopedic knowledge of all things Kruger, including the animals, the birds, the insects, the flora and fauna, and even the terrain. His passion for the Kruger is contagious! Our meals were spectacular, recipes were Neils, definitely need to get some of those recipes. Neil also has camera experience which he gladly gives to clients to help optimize the quality of photos taken during the trip. We arrived and met Neil and his assistant, Roan and off we went to explore the Kruger again. Given it is "WILD life", felt safe the ENTIRE time due to Neil's extraordinaire knowledge in animal behavior and simply respecting that we were the visitors in their backyard. Once we arrived at Kruger Neil took over and the next 7 days, we spent being education, amazed, and awed. Most of the time we were a Olympic size swimming pool length away from the animals I would also recommend for the folks traveling long distances, spend at least 1.5 weeks in SA and split it between Kruger and Capetown. Europe - Cycling Safaris have been organising bike tours in the west coast of Ireland since 1989. I have been on Safaris before but this one truly left me wanting more. Ask marathontraveler2016 about Kruger National Park, Ask cherylt512 about Kruger National Park, 5 Day Classic Kruger National Park Safari. The experience changes the way you look at nature in a way that words can't describe. Get long lenses for photography since its quite tricky getting out of your car or binoculars if you want to spot the cats. Bearded Heron Safaris exceeded all my expectations in every way. Bearded Heron Safaris Reviews. If he, by slim chance, doesnt have an answer, he does research to give accurate answers. Between serene bird-watching rides and riveting lion/cheetah/rhino/elephant sightings, I felt safe and blessed to have Neil guiding us. more, 3 Day Classic Kruger National Park Safari. Bearded Heron will give you the most intimate experience of any guide out there. Bearded Heron Safaris came very highly recommended to me. or. This amazing place kept all the children occupied. Staff very helpful. There is a street called nature and this collection is a journal of my . When COVID settles down and were able to travel again, I will run back to SA and do another safari with Neil. We worked with Tina during the planning stage and received perfect recommendations on the timing and logistics of flights. One of my favorite's was seeing a giraffe appear to be eating a bone. Bearded Heron coordinated the COVID tests required for our return flights to the United States. There are no cats in the north turned out to be a myth. Given it is "WILD life", felt safe the ENTIRE time due to Neil's extraordinaire knowledge in animal behavior and simply respecting that we were the visitors in their backyard. does not contain personal information, cannot be traced back to you, and, All 5,834 African Safari Tours & Holidays, Botswana Accommodation is in private en-suite units that sleep two, four or six people (fresh linen and towels) depending on your group or family size. Superb! It's easy to do. My friend and I just completed a 7 day safari at Kruger National Park with the tour company Bearded Heron Safaris. The experience changes the way you look at nature in a way that words can't describe. Has everything one would expect and more. Yes, they are that good! Neil and his team organized everything and geared it specifically to our interests. The initial capacity of the reservoir was to supply water to 100,000 residents. All guiding and traditional home- cooked South African cuisine are inclusive. To be able to view the animals in their natural habitat and simultaneously hear quiet explanations and predictions about their behavior from someone who has spent many years studying them in their natural environment - and then see those predictions play out is incredible! It was super safe, and, of course, an amazing safari experience. We are a specialist Kruger safari operator. by: Sylvias posted on: Sep 22, 2019 10:27:22 . From day 1, we saw the most amazing animals up close and personal. They took care of all the details, allowing us to just relax and take in the entire experience. This amazing place kept all the children occupied. 8 Days Rwanda, Congo, Uganda Safari. Kruger's gift shop was large, and we purchased a few reasonably priced items. Private small group and family itineraries in the world famous Kruger. Kruger National Park: Bearded Heron Safari - See 73,333 traveller reviews, 11,010 candid photos, and great deals for Kruger National Park, South Africa, at Tripadvisor. PLEASE, bring both binoculars and a real camera, not a cell phone - you will be so happy you did. He explains what is going on and why the animals are behaving a particular way. Once I got in contact with Neil and Tina Heron who run Bearded Heron Safaris, our choice was made. ), to appreciate what the shake of a lion's mane means, and to immerse yourself in the real time environmental, ecological and conservation issues. Create new account. Tina Heron, who you book with, is a great communicator! He takes amazing care of each guest, from coordinating our luggage and accommodations, to accommodating each guest's needs. The Homestead. Safe (now & later), Educational, FUN, Memories for a Lifetime, September 2021. It was truly one of those unforgettable moments and Bearded Heron is there best in the business. partners) to personalize our advertising campaigns and to allow you to share on social media. I have left each time wanting to return. As my first safari ever, the daily game drives and learning about wild animal behavior as it unfolds before your eyes are indescribable thrills. Date of safari: 20-26 October. Accommodation includes private en-suite serviced cottages that each sleep two to six people depending on your group or family size. ), to appreciate what the shake of a lion's mane means, and to immerse yourself in the real time environmental, ecological and conservation issues. It was an unforgettable safari for all of us. The magic of wilderness, animals and games for all of us to enjoy made our trip to the lowveld even more of a treat and adventure for my girls and bestie from the US. Neil and Tina Heron, owners of this small safari business, are a fabulous team. We arrived and met Neil and his assistant, Roan and off we went to explore the Kruger again. Sabi is private (but that does not mean "too expensive"), so you cannot just go on your own.One big difference between the Kruger and Sabi is that the drivers cannot go off road in Kruger. The cost of the package is substantial and we are asked to make downpayment of 50% upfront to secure our November. I just returned from a 6 night, 7 day safari in Kruger National Park, with 6 clients of mine from the United States.We spend the first day entering at Crocodile Bridge, in the South, and traveling via Lower Sabi,and Skukuza to our final destination, Pretorius Kop, were we spend 2 nights. The only downfall was that parsons was a 2 hour drive each way, so if you are planning a trip, definitely stay INSIDE Kruger, or at least in a game reserve as close by as possible. The game drives were eventful - with it being spring time in the park we saw many babies, including a baby hippo that was only days old. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. Roan's guest service is second to none! Neil Heron's . The pictures being posted are what you see, and never predictable depending on what nature decides to reveal that day. Catering is exceptional with lamb shanks in port and traditional bobotie being two of the highlights for me. Since this was an 'all-inclusive' adventure, she even made sure that any special dietary needs or requirements were discussed and arranged for. From the the time I made my first inquiry about their 7 day safari Tina was there to help with dates, options, and recommendations. It was super safe, and, of course, an amazing safari experience.Safety: Bearded Heron ensured that all personnel involved at a minimum had a negative COVID test (shuttle drivers, lodging proprietor, safari guide and assistant). I can't imagine going to the Kruger without Neil Heron. Bearded Heron coordinated the COVID tests required for our return flights to the United States. We are repeat customers and continue to be impressed with this company. Safari company used: Bearded Heron Safaris (make a direct enquiry) Parks visited: Kruger National Park, South Africa. We would discuss our amazing day and ponder what tomorrow would bring. His dedication to its conservation is boundless. As my first safari ever, the daily game drives and learning about wild animal behavior as it unfolds before your eyes are indescribable thrills. By clicking Accept you agree that we use Analytical cookies for gathering information about how our This was our 2nd trip in 3 years with Bearded Heron Safaris. I look forward to signing up with this amazing company on another safari in the near future. It was such an amazing experience we went back again in September 2017 and brought friends. It's another thing to be on a game drive where your guide helps you think like the animals, to analyze the situation (what happened here, whats going to happen here, what are our surroundings telling us? Bearded Heron 8-day Kruger safari experiences 2023. Our safari started in the far north at Punda Maria. As my first safari ever, the daily game drives and learning about wild animal behavior as it unfolds before your eyes are indescribable thrills. About Bearded Heron Safaris. We took home a shared experience we will never forget. I was excited to be able to join a small group on an 11-day safari in Northern Kruger National Park this past September 2021. . Be prepared to be without Internet for a couple of days. For a unique small group (or family) safari experience no one does it better than Bearded Heron Safaris. Led by Neil . One night I looked up at the night sky and asked is that Orion? and Neil launched into a very detailed lecture about the South African night sky and how it differs from the sky I would see on the east coast of the US. As my first safari ever, the daily game drives and learning about wild animal behavior as it unfolds before your eyes are indescribable thrills. Tina's customer service and communication on the front end for planning was exceptional given the logistics and it being such a unique trip. Neils passion for that environment is unquestionable. Bearded Heron Safarishas introduced the following measures to ensure the safety of guests on all our private safari itineraries for the remainder of 2020 and into the future: PRIVATE SMALL GROUP SAFARIS OF NO MORE THAN 6 PEOPLE SHARING ON A 10-SEATER GAME VIEWING VEHICLE, This ensures social distancing space between passengers, BEARDED HERON SAFARIS BRANDED FACE MASKS TO BE HANDED TO ALL GUESTS, Additional protection from dust and wind as well as COVID-19, BEARDED HERON SAFARIS GUIDE AND CHEF WILL BE PRE-SCREENED FOR COVID-19 BEFORE EACH SAFARI, Pre-screening results will be available to all guests. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Flights and . Personal safari experiences of South Africa - Specialising in the. It was truly one of those unforgettable moments and Bearded Heron is there best in the business. Safari: Neil and Roan are dedicated to the enjoyment of their guests. All breakfasts, dinners, gamedrive snacks and refreshments (SA wine and beer plus fresh juice and bottled water). Roan's guest service is second to none! The concept of a nocturnal park in Singapore was suggested in the 1980s by the former executive chairman of the Singapore Zoo, Dr . If I could give it a 100 star rating instead of a 5 star rating I would! We saw the whole Big 5 in our first 6 hours in the park, fantastic. I've never met someone who enjoys puns more, impersonating MANY and quite accurately, and constantly interspersing humor with information. Bearded Heron Safaris; Uncover Africa; Wild Wings Safaris; Cuckoo Safaris; Compass Odyssey; Vaccination and visa necessities for African international locations. Amazing, is the only word I have to describe this incredible experience. And speaking of dinner, we enjoyed wonderful meals prepared by Neil and his assistant Roan. However, upon reflection I dont think I can stay away.If you are seriously thinking about going on one of these journeys this is the man you need to travel with.! Dinner was always a highlight as we spend the evening with our new friends who regaled us with stories and laughter. For those in the family who had never done this kind of thing, this was definitely one of those 'trip of a lifetime' experiences. Neil and Tina Heron, owners of this small safari business, are a fabulous team. Safaris. One of my favorite's was seeing a giraffe appear to be eating a bone. Tsendze has Rogers, who should be the beacon that all staff anywhere, aspire to. Hotels near Feel Good Stuff, Noordhoek on Tripadvisor: Find traveller reviews, 2,987 candid photos, and prices for 301 hotels near Feel Good Stuff in Noordhoek, South Africa. Travelers keen on seeing South Africa's Kruger National Park through the eyes of a local naturalist will appreciate the 15-day safari with Bearded Heron Safaris. He is a WEALTH of knowledge from tracking animals, reading foot prints, knowing every bird name and call and explaining behaviors. Our objective is not about ticking off the big 5 and racing past the rest, this is a real bush experience. In fact, the overwhelming majority were vaccinated. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. Kruger National Park: Bearded Heron Safaris - See 72,287 traveler reviews, 10,757 candid photos, and great deals for Kruger National Park, South Africa, at Tripadvisor. Saw rangers almost every day. Fingers crossed for a tour with Neil Heron of Bearded Heron Safaris in 2021! All of our accommodations/meals/game drives were limited to only our small "bubble." We are a party of 5 persons for 6-night safari. Cannot think of a safer trip one might take in Covid Times, given everyone has to be vaccinated, test negative coming & going, and then only being with our group and outside the entire time. 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