2016 Expedition – Reviews

A sample of reviews posted by participants in the 2016 Africa Expedition:

Lisa Connor:Although this was my 5th time in Africa, it was my first time on the ‘Adults’ trip. I travelled with my Mum who had never been to Africa and I think it is fair to say she was a little apprehensive about the whole trip. However, within the first day I could see her concerns disappear and within 3 days it was already ‘the best holiday she has ever had…ever!’ For me, one could easily think that I have become a little blasé, but far from it. The trip was incredible and I thoroughly enjoyed new experiences such as spending time at the elephant sanctuary and visiting the ladies prison. It was also a real treat for me to upgrade to rooms. Every night, other than the bush camp, we were in clean beds with hot showers. Bliss! The staff and group were brilliant, we shared fun, laughter and everyone was really supportive of one another throughout the whole trip.  

Both mum and I would highly recommend this trip to anyone. Young or mature, if it your first time or not. Everyone will gain something from the experience. 

Not only have we come home with hundreds of photographs but each has a story. It really has been an adventure and we have made some life long friends.

Tanzania and Kenya have a very special place in my heart and to be able to share it with my mum and create memories that will stay with us forever made this trip even more special and priceless.

Karen Mitchell:Thank you to you Diane and Kupenda Africa for a fantastic experience.  I really enjoyed the trip again.  It was lovely to revisit the schools and meet the sponsored kids, especially the ones we sponsor. I think we all got on really well as group, everyone was so supportive.

 The visit to the women’s jail was really awesome, seeing how the women accepted their sentence and we’re trying to be positive and make the most of their time there was really amazing.  I’m glad we got to see Ngorongoro Ngorongoro crater this time, particularly seeing the lions. The scenery was beautiful too.

Mick Dodgson:What an amazing time and experience. Having seen the photos and videos as well as heard many stories from previous trips, it is not until you experience it for real that you really appreciate the size of Africa, people, wildlife, schools and the way of life. There are plenty of opportunities to help support the schools, this as well as the walking and gorge walk activities gives you a real sense of achievement, no day is the same, from Safari one day and witnessing lions after a kill and seeing vultures to (in my case) putting up shelves the next, meeting our sponsored pupil … I could go on… the time went far too quickly and I didn’t want to come home, loved it!!.

Kevin Robinson. Kupenda Africa, gives you not only a taste for life in Tanzinia and Kenya they bring home the brutal realities of this harsh environment and the struggle of its people. Don’t be expecting to be pampered or given tea in bed its more likely that you are washing dishes and helping with the logistics of the next challenge.

The staff are amazing in their knowledge and energy to be there for you both personally and collectively.

If you undertake this way of learning about the culture, experiencing its ways and observing the realities of Africa then you will walk away at the end of the trip with a wealth of knowledge, an understanding of the brutal environment that people live and work in and have seen some of the most beautiful and brutal places on earth.

Don’t think you know what it’s like until you experience it, so do so and then you can say “I know what it’s like”

David & Julie Delany.This was our second trip and we enjoyed it even more than the first.  It is a unique opportunity to experience both the visual wonder of Africa and its people. It is not a holiday in the normal sense and can be physically and mentally tiring but it is undoubtedly the most rewarding trip we have undertaken and one which leaves a lasting impression.

Peter and Diane and of course Grace, our tour guide, have so much knowledge about the country and culture which greatly enhanced our experience.

These are a few of our highlights:

• The magical Crater Lake.
• Witnessing roadside village life as we travelled around.
• The veranda at Tarangire Lodge.
• Socialising with our fellow travellers, especially in the wonderful bar at Meserani Snake Park.
• Visiting schools and meeting school children; in particular the opportunity to meet with your sponsored pupil is an unforgettable, humbling experience.
• The breath taking view of Ngorongoro Crater.

Nick Whaley.  A phenomenal way to experience the heart of Africa. You will come away with long lasting friendships, bonds and a love for this culture and their people. Testing and emotional, if you haven’t been anywhere like this before, you will be shocked and at times may feel uncomfortable. But you have the support of group, Peter, Diane, Grace and the rest of Kupenda Africa at all times who quickly abolish any concerns or worries.

It truly is once in a life time, unless like me, you would like to go back again! “