We arrived into Cairo after a long redeye flight across the US and to NY, then onto Amsterdam and finally Egypt. We were so happy to be there finally. The flight really takes it out of you, especially not sleeping that well on planes. We touched down and they shuttled us through customs and we were met by our hosts and driver who were holding signs to identify themselves. They helped us with our baggage and we went to the private van they had for our group outside the airport entrance.
They took us to the Fairmont hotel which was recently building only the waterfront in downtown. It was extravagant with a gorgeous view of the city and beautiful bathtub that had glass windows opening up into the bedroom. Fancy!
We settled in a called our friends who lived in Cairo to come meet us for dinner. They brought koshari, a wonderful local dish made of rice, pasta, tomatoes, and amazing spices. So simple but so good. We relaxed together and they took us on a walk down the road to find a couple necessities we forgot to pack.
The trip was not only memorable for the amount of animals we saw but also for the people and accommodations at the two camps where we stayed. Our first guide, BK, was a wealth of information about the animals, landscape and down to the plants and what they were used for. Everyday out was a learning experience with him. All the people at the camps were gracious and the food was excellent.
Our second camp in the Okavanga was just as good as the first as far as the staff, accommodations, food and animals. After our experience at the first camp we amazed that the high quality remained the same. Our guide, G, made sure we were able to enjoy every experience including a rush through the bush to witness a cheetah and an ensuing hunt that he heard over his radio.
In both camps there were enough guides out that if they saw something the other guides were informed which helped in seeing as much as possible. It was also nice that the concessions were large enough that we did not have vehicles following each other throughout the day.
Normally there is always something in a trip of this length that we think could be improved upon but this is the rare case where we cannot think of anything. From the time we left the States to when we returned it was one of the most hassle free vacations we took.
Perhaps emphasizing the use of the laundry facilities at the camps would be useful because of the luggage restrictions would be the only thing I can think of as an improvement to future clients.
Kenneth Dropek
1 day ago
Mary was so pleasant and professional. She made sure all of our questions were answered.