Gerrit enjoys a cigar at the end of another great day in the Arctic. Outside, of course!
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POLAR BEARS OF THE ALASKAN ARCTIC - OCTOBER 2014
I’ve had good flights home and am back at work, glowing in the memories of our fantastic week with the Polar bears. This trip has really met and exceeded all my expectations, and some of the magic moments of perfect photography opportunities, will stay with me forever. Thank you very much for sharing this very special and unique aspect of nature. I’d also like to compliment you on the excellent arrangements and relaxed, easy and accommodating way of handling our group. Keep doing what you do, because you are doing it well! Kind regards, Gerrit Wyma (Somerset West, South Africa) |
"This image speaks of where the bears live..." © Greg Ferguson
POLAR BEARS OF THE ALASKAN HIGH ARCTIC - OCTOBER 2014
“Just wanting you to know that I finally got around to looking at all my pics from our trip. I'm happy to report that even after deleting ALL images with less than perfect composition, closed or sleepy eyes, bad focus, etc, I still have thousands of stunning images! I'm extremely pleased with keeping my shutter speed up to 1/1000 (or close to it) since all the images are tack sharp even when I can tell the boat was bobbing up and down, and noise just isn't a problem because there aren't large dark areas. I think the icing on the cake is that all the backgrounds look so darned good and the blowing/falling snow looks so sharp in the plane of focus. The pics really convey what it felt like to be there in the Ice Bear's world. I'm not sure I'm going to be able to pick my "best" images as I have so many of them. Thanks for a memorable trip.” Greg Ferguson, Atlanta, GA, USA.
“Just wanting you to know that I finally got around to looking at all my pics from our trip. I'm happy to report that even after deleting ALL images with less than perfect composition, closed or sleepy eyes, bad focus, etc, I still have thousands of stunning images! I'm extremely pleased with keeping my shutter speed up to 1/1000 (or close to it) since all the images are tack sharp even when I can tell the boat was bobbing up and down, and noise just isn't a problem because there aren't large dark areas. I think the icing on the cake is that all the backgrounds look so darned good and the blowing/falling snow looks so sharp in the plane of focus. The pics really convey what it felt like to be there in the Ice Bear's world. I'm not sure I'm going to be able to pick my "best" images as I have so many of them. Thanks for a memorable trip.” Greg Ferguson, Atlanta, GA, USA.
Holly and "Barb's Angels"...
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 Holly and friends enjoying their moments on safari
The Great Migration - September 2014
Dear Sharna and Daryl, I can't begin to put into words how I feel after my first visit to Africa! I am in awe of the beauty and wonder of the Maasai Mara --- it is hard to describe what I experienced. I tell my family and friends that my favourite part of my visit was being able to watch and hear the interactions of the animals, especially with their families. I will never forget the calling between the two brother lions, not the gentle and playful interactions of mothers and babies of every species. It was a privilege to spend time in their habitats. In addition to that, I can't thank you both enough for the absolutely wonderful time! The camp and accommodations were welcoming and comfortable and the food was outrageous! Your hospitality and professionalism were much appreciated. And to top it all off, I learned how to take photographs of wildlife! I have to admit that I am now "hooked" and can't wait to embark on other journeys that will provide me with opportunities to use my newfound skills. Thank you for sharing with me your insight and expertise, not to mention your patience and encouragement, as I gained confidence as a photographer. I most certainly hope that our paths will cross again --- I would love to think that I could once again be part of another Wildphotos trip. Thank you so much for enriching my life. All the best, Holly Sethness, New York City. |
BIG CATS OF THE MARA - FEBRUARY & MARCH 2014 (2 WEEKS COMBINED BACK TO BACK)
Daryl and Sharna
I'm sure it comes as no surprise to you that the 18 days we spent at "Sharna's Camp" with the two of you this past March will be one of finest memories we will take with us as our traveling days come to an end. You have been at the heart of all we have done in Africa, and it could not have been better. Thank you for the care provided during our "down days" and for the breadth of exploration of the Mara during our "go" days. The guides were the best - combining expertise, humor and sensitivity - all important Balfour values. The camp staff was impeccable in its provision of service - always at hand having memorized how the coffee was prepared and how important the Bourbon was! The setting in the main tent area was magnificent - Sharna's touch was on every element. Thank you very much for the photos provided. We have sent the "Cheetah Collection" to a large group of friends - it has been met with awe and has provoked interest - the collection was marked with your contact information! Also, Sharna's "slide shows" were unexpected and very much appreciated. TED & JOAN HALKYARD, CHARLESTON, SOUTH CAROLINA
Daryl and Sharna
I'm sure it comes as no surprise to you that the 18 days we spent at "Sharna's Camp" with the two of you this past March will be one of finest memories we will take with us as our traveling days come to an end. You have been at the heart of all we have done in Africa, and it could not have been better. Thank you for the care provided during our "down days" and for the breadth of exploration of the Mara during our "go" days. The guides were the best - combining expertise, humor and sensitivity - all important Balfour values. The camp staff was impeccable in its provision of service - always at hand having memorized how the coffee was prepared and how important the Bourbon was! The setting in the main tent area was magnificent - Sharna's touch was on every element. Thank you very much for the photos provided. We have sent the "Cheetah Collection" to a large group of friends - it has been met with awe and has provoked interest - the collection was marked with your contact information! Also, Sharna's "slide shows" were unexpected and very much appreciated. TED & JOAN HALKYARD, CHARLESTON, SOUTH CAROLINA
BIG CATS OF THE MARA - MARCH 2014 with South African wildlife artist Ilse de Villiers
We are officially back from our safari to the legendary Maasai Mara National Reserve in Kenya & what an amazing experience!!!
Attached are some of the beautiful pictures that we took & I can honestly say I am SO inspired-can’t wait to start painting.
The trip was everything it promised to be & so much more. After we landed at Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport we were taken to a small 12-seater plane that flew us to the Maasai Mara reserve (45min flight) There Daryl Balfour & the Wildphotos Safaris vehicles awaited us & transported us to our tented camp. Yes, it is tents, & in the bush, but 5-star nonetheless. We had a lovely Aussie-couple along on the safari & they told us that they refer to this kind of ‘glamorous camping’ as ‘glamping’ & believe me, ‘glamped’ we did!!
The lovely open grasslands of the Maasai Mara hosts numerous animals such as Topi, Thompsons & Grants gazelle, Eland, Impala, Buffalo, Giraffe, Zebra, DikDik, bat-eared foxes, hyenas, birds of all kinds & of course the BIG CATS - cheetah, lions & leopard. During daytime the predators are often found in the more ‘bushy’ areas alongside the rivers. We saw plenty of both cheetahs & lions, but this time around the only leopard we spotted was at a distance. The one we saw had its impala-catch hoisted up into a tree & we could see through the binoculars that he was feeding on it. After a couple of very dry weeks the Mara had good rains during the first three days we were there & the river had risen during the night, so we couldn’t cross it to get closer to that specific leopard.
The safari offers a magnitude of opportunities to take wonderful photographs. There are only 4 guests per vehicle + the driver/guide which in our case was either Daryl Balfour himself or Pierre Burton who’s worked with Daryl for the past 12 years. Both of them have an awesome knowledge of the Mara itself + the animals & their habits. You can quite truly ask them anything & the conversations during game drives are often captivating & educational. There was always a great lighthearted atmosphere in the vehicles & in camp.
It was a bonus to learn so much about photography from Daryl (& Pierre). Even I, who is quite happy to ‘click away’ with my camera set on ‘automatic’, had learnt to use my camera more efficiently by as early as day two. At every sighting there was advice on where to point & compose and how to set your camera to take the best photos. The vehicles are positioned & repositioned again & again to give everyone the opportunity to get good pictures from different angles.
Daryl’s charming wife, Sharna (also a professional photographer), is ‘in command’ of the camp staff & meals & she & her team do a superb job! We were amazed at the wonderful meals that were magically created in the ‘bush kitchen’ on a daily basis. Each evening a GREAT 3-course meal accompanied with lovely wines are served in the mess-tent. Sharna’s table decorations & menus are awesome & one really feels like royalty. And then I haven’t even mentioned the ‘breakfast-basket’, scrumptious lunches or teatime treats!!
For anyone who loves wildlife, nature & is a keen photographer (or just loves beautiful pictures) - this is the ultimate 5-star safari! The Maasai Mara is a captivating & beautiful treasure of Africa & experiencing it with professionals such as Daryl, Sharna & Pierre is a magical experience to say the very least. ILSE & ABRAHAM DE VILLIERS, TZANEEN, SOUTH AFRICA
We are officially back from our safari to the legendary Maasai Mara National Reserve in Kenya & what an amazing experience!!!
Attached are some of the beautiful pictures that we took & I can honestly say I am SO inspired-can’t wait to start painting.
The trip was everything it promised to be & so much more. After we landed at Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport we were taken to a small 12-seater plane that flew us to the Maasai Mara reserve (45min flight) There Daryl Balfour & the Wildphotos Safaris vehicles awaited us & transported us to our tented camp. Yes, it is tents, & in the bush, but 5-star nonetheless. We had a lovely Aussie-couple along on the safari & they told us that they refer to this kind of ‘glamorous camping’ as ‘glamping’ & believe me, ‘glamped’ we did!!
The lovely open grasslands of the Maasai Mara hosts numerous animals such as Topi, Thompsons & Grants gazelle, Eland, Impala, Buffalo, Giraffe, Zebra, DikDik, bat-eared foxes, hyenas, birds of all kinds & of course the BIG CATS - cheetah, lions & leopard. During daytime the predators are often found in the more ‘bushy’ areas alongside the rivers. We saw plenty of both cheetahs & lions, but this time around the only leopard we spotted was at a distance. The one we saw had its impala-catch hoisted up into a tree & we could see through the binoculars that he was feeding on it. After a couple of very dry weeks the Mara had good rains during the first three days we were there & the river had risen during the night, so we couldn’t cross it to get closer to that specific leopard.
The safari offers a magnitude of opportunities to take wonderful photographs. There are only 4 guests per vehicle + the driver/guide which in our case was either Daryl Balfour himself or Pierre Burton who’s worked with Daryl for the past 12 years. Both of them have an awesome knowledge of the Mara itself + the animals & their habits. You can quite truly ask them anything & the conversations during game drives are often captivating & educational. There was always a great lighthearted atmosphere in the vehicles & in camp.
It was a bonus to learn so much about photography from Daryl (& Pierre). Even I, who is quite happy to ‘click away’ with my camera set on ‘automatic’, had learnt to use my camera more efficiently by as early as day two. At every sighting there was advice on where to point & compose and how to set your camera to take the best photos. The vehicles are positioned & repositioned again & again to give everyone the opportunity to get good pictures from different angles.
Daryl’s charming wife, Sharna (also a professional photographer), is ‘in command’ of the camp staff & meals & she & her team do a superb job! We were amazed at the wonderful meals that were magically created in the ‘bush kitchen’ on a daily basis. Each evening a GREAT 3-course meal accompanied with lovely wines are served in the mess-tent. Sharna’s table decorations & menus are awesome & one really feels like royalty. And then I haven’t even mentioned the ‘breakfast-basket’, scrumptious lunches or teatime treats!!
For anyone who loves wildlife, nature & is a keen photographer (or just loves beautiful pictures) - this is the ultimate 5-star safari! The Maasai Mara is a captivating & beautiful treasure of Africa & experiencing it with professionals such as Daryl, Sharna & Pierre is a magical experience to say the very least. ILSE & ABRAHAM DE VILLIERS, TZANEEN, SOUTH AFRICA
BIG CATS OF THE MARA - MARCH 2014, with UK Wildlife Artist Pip McGarry
Daryl, we had a fantastic trip once again....really the best photos I
have ever taken on a safari and as usual every base covered in looking after us
all. I know Pam and Tony were blown away and it exceeded their wildest
expectations. The tuition and extra help with the camera was also a great bonus
and even someone with my appalling lack of technical know-how learned
something, in fact several things. I think as we discussed, a week long trip is
possibly more effective and less tiring for the guides and staff, so perhaps
when you get back from Tiger Canyons we can start thinking about 2015!
Sharna was as usual amazing, between you both, you are an unbeatable team! Thanks again Daryl, will catch up with you soon ...
With very best wishes and regards to all, Pip.
Sharna was as usual amazing, between you both, you are an unbeatable team! Thanks again Daryl, will catch up with you soon ...
With very best wishes and regards to all, Pip.
BIG CATS OF THE MARA with Pip McGarry, March 2012
UK artist Pip McGarry gets some close-up detail of a cheetah!
Hi Daryl & Sharna, A huge thank you for a fabulous safari again this year. Last year no stone was left unturned in making our safari as brilliant as possible and I half wondered beforehand whether you could achieve the same high standard again. Well not only did you achieve it, you exceeded last year's trip hands down! We had the most extra-ordinary sightings of wildlife and I know from conversations held on the way home that the rest of group had a fantastic time and they echoed my feelings about the safari. Daryl, I did have some discussions with some of the others and the feedback was that this safari works really well and also some said that they enjoyed the fact we just stayed in one place. So-oooo, this is probably going to upset the hell out of you, but can we look to do the same safari again next year Daryl? I think the safari stories and photos we took are going to whet many people's appetites, I am sure word is going around to other artists on Facebook and the like. Please say a massive 'thank you' to Sharna, as she is brilliant and makes everyone so comfortable with all those final touches, also very modest about what she does. Pierre and Phil are absolutely the best guides and superb guys as well. So thank you sincerely once again Daryl - you hold ultimate responsibility for all this and it was just superb this year. (I already have two paintings underway). I hope we can continue to come and annoy the heck out of you for years to come! With very best wishes, Pip (and on behalf of Jan).
BOTSWANA AND TIGER CANYONS 2011
Jan, Tom & Stoney Edwards, Botswana 2010.
Daryl and Sharna, in our six private safaris with you in 1996 through 2010, we have amassed our most impressive images (and now videos) of Southern Africa, as well as the Maasai Mara in Kenya. You are true personal friends as well as great photographers, teachers and leaders.
Our private trip in 2010 was a once in a lifetime adventure at three camps in Botswana and Tiger Canyons in South Africa. We and our son Tom were the only guests with Daryl at the elephant birth that Daryl describes so well on this website.
We fortunately had the new Nikon D7000 DSLR with 16MP 1080P HDMI video capability in addition to our other high-end Nikons. Stoney shot over an hour's worth of Video (some with sound) while Jan and Tom shot stills of the elephant birth. This was in addition to many images and clips of lions, leopards, baboons, monkeys, warthogs, hyenas, giraffes, Cape buffalo and birds during the Botswana stay.
The Tiger Canyons event was very exciting also. In two days we captured over a thousand images and several good video clips of tigers, compared to 5 minutes worth (10-15 images) during three weeks in India two years previous. Jan walking with Julie the tigress was her highlight of the trip, and Stoney's scariest one. Tiger Canyons is truly a noble and difficult experiment by John Varty. We pray for his success and safety. Thank you so much for arranging this very special time.
During our trips together we have three images that have been finalist and semi-finalist in the BBC Wildlife photographer of the year competition. Our two plus weeks of night photography in 2006 resulted in an invitation to present "Night Photography in Africa" at NANPA (North American Nature Photographers Association) convention in 2009. Selected images and video clips of these and other adventures may be viewed on our website here.
Daryl and Sharna, thanks agin for these wonderful opportunities. Hope to see you again in 2012. Stoney and Jan Edwards, Los Altos, CA 94024
Our private trip in 2010 was a once in a lifetime adventure at three camps in Botswana and Tiger Canyons in South Africa. We and our son Tom were the only guests with Daryl at the elephant birth that Daryl describes so well on this website.
We fortunately had the new Nikon D7000 DSLR with 16MP 1080P HDMI video capability in addition to our other high-end Nikons. Stoney shot over an hour's worth of Video (some with sound) while Jan and Tom shot stills of the elephant birth. This was in addition to many images and clips of lions, leopards, baboons, monkeys, warthogs, hyenas, giraffes, Cape buffalo and birds during the Botswana stay.
The Tiger Canyons event was very exciting also. In two days we captured over a thousand images and several good video clips of tigers, compared to 5 minutes worth (10-15 images) during three weeks in India two years previous. Jan walking with Julie the tigress was her highlight of the trip, and Stoney's scariest one. Tiger Canyons is truly a noble and difficult experiment by John Varty. We pray for his success and safety. Thank you so much for arranging this very special time.
During our trips together we have three images that have been finalist and semi-finalist in the BBC Wildlife photographer of the year competition. Our two plus weeks of night photography in 2006 resulted in an invitation to present "Night Photography in Africa" at NANPA (North American Nature Photographers Association) convention in 2009. Selected images and video clips of these and other adventures may be viewed on our website here.
Daryl and Sharna, thanks agin for these wonderful opportunities. Hope to see you again in 2012. Stoney and Jan Edwards, Los Altos, CA 94024
Big Cats of the Maasai Mara with Pip McGarry - March 2011
"Daryl, we had a magical experience coming on safari with yourself and Sharna. Very clearly you had gone to great lengths to make sure we had a great time and got good photographs. Everyone was very happy and quite a few have already expressed the desire to return next year (sorry, you might have to put up with us again). The tents were great - the little touches such as the hot water bottles, the tents being tidied every time we left them, the clothes washing being done so quickly - just about everything you could think of was addressed and executed superbly. Even with the flight connections, there was someone ready to look after us during the transfer - no stone was left unturned in the effort to give our party a fabulous safari. I thought Sharna was absolutely amazing and lovely, her table decorations were brilliant and really gave the evening meal that extra special something - she also made sure everything was 100% right for us all the time. So a huge 'thank you' Daryl, it really was a fantastic safari and once we both get our feet back on the ground, perhaps we can start looking at dates for a further trip next year. Ya-ay!" Pip McGarry, UK.
(Pip McGarry has a unique approach to painting wild animals which is the key to his present position in the art world. He catches the spirit of the beast every time and there is more depth in his paintings than the simple two-dimensional plane. His fine painting of a Persian Leopard in our May sale was an example of this talent. There is now a frisson of interest throughout the room when his paintings come up for auction' Lynn Burns, Head of Wildlife Art
Christies, South Kensington, London.)
(Pip McGarry has a unique approach to painting wild animals which is the key to his present position in the art world. He catches the spirit of the beast every time and there is more depth in his paintings than the simple two-dimensional plane. His fine painting of a Persian Leopard in our May sale was an example of this talent. There is now a frisson of interest throughout the room when his paintings come up for auction' Lynn Burns, Head of Wildlife Art
Christies, South Kensington, London.)
Maasai Mara Wildebeest Migration 2010
"Greetings, Daryl and Sharna! I can't thank you enough for my second trip with Wildphotos Safaris. Once again, the journey was pure magic; your Maasai Mara camp was perfection in every way. My purpose in this message is to list the ways that Wildphotos does it better than anyone else: (1) Intake is flawless. From presentation to departure, every aspect of a Wildphotos adventure is perfectly organized, every travel mishap is anticipated and overcome. All lodgings, all transfers, take place without a hitch---or even a moment of anxiety. (2) Once again, I see that most Wildphotos trippers are repeat customers. My 2006 visit to Ngorongoro Crater/western Tanzania with you introduced me to four Wildphotos veterans, and this August 2010 trip to the Maasai Mara re-united me with another five. You've earned a loyal following, and they're wonderful companions. Repeat customers say everything a traveller needs to know about Wildphotos Safaris. (3) I hope that your world-class D&S Balfour Portfolio clarifies the importance of touring Africa with the greatest wildlife photographers of our generation. It may take some time, but I intend to collect each of your magnificent photo essays on the endangered habitats of East and southern Africa. I'm haunted by the fear that political and environmental threats could threaten this indescribably beautiful world. Nothing but your stunning photos could do justice to the urgent need to protect the Preserves you cherish. (4) People matter, especially when they stand for what's right. I want to thank you for introducing me to the Wildphotos team, beginning with Francis and Mouse in Nairobi, through George on the shuttle flights, and especially the Mara Crew: peerless Chef Mwaka, regal CEO James, charming Koko and your able staff! (5) One more point: you described Phil and Pierre as your Resident Naturalists. I was stunned by their total command of the Mara map, the Mara habitat, the Mara bestiary, the rhythm of the migrations. They coordinate (with Daryl) with dazzling precision, hours ahead of the lesser guides. They are peerless. In short, D&S Wildphotos is simply better than the rest. Thanks again---I hope to see you soon! Best," George Mead, USA
Serengeti 2008, Mara Migration 2009 & 2010
I am lucky enough to be a regular safari goer and in the last ten years I
have done several safaris in South Africa, Botswana, Zambia, Zimbabwe and
Namibia. In 2008 I did my first trip with Daryl and since have done two more
with another one coming up this year.
Wildphotos Safaris are without a doubt the best I have ever been on and have set the bar that few if any can match.
The Balfour difference shows in the quality and comfort of the camp {thanks Sharna} with the excellent food and the expertise and experience of the guides who are absolutely first class An added bonus for photographers is Daryl's readily available expertise and assistance in all photographic manners and how the game drives maximize the photo opportunities.
If you are only going to be able to take one safari make sure its the best and the experience will last a lifetime. If you are and experienced safari goer try a Balfour safari and see first hand what you have been missing. Peter Kelly Vancouver BC Canada
Wildphotos Safaris are without a doubt the best I have ever been on and have set the bar that few if any can match.
The Balfour difference shows in the quality and comfort of the camp {thanks Sharna} with the excellent food and the expertise and experience of the guides who are absolutely first class An added bonus for photographers is Daryl's readily available expertise and assistance in all photographic manners and how the game drives maximize the photo opportunities.
If you are only going to be able to take one safari make sure its the best and the experience will last a lifetime. If you are and experienced safari goer try a Balfour safari and see first hand what you have been missing. Peter Kelly Vancouver BC Canada
Mara Migration 2006 & 2010 & 2011, Katavi & Mahale 2007, Tigers in Africa 2010
WOW!!! Words cannot express how I feel about going on 4 safaris with Daryl and
Sharna (and Phil)...Amazing, astonishing, heart stopping......etc. etc....Daryl
knows the animals so well you would think he was one in his past life. We would
head out to an area that we thought had nothing to see and lo and behold there
was the cheetah chasing the impala. Daryl knew he would be there. And Sharna (who is amazingly smart) is the most gracious hostess. She makes sure we are all
comfortable and taken care of. I hope to spend the rest of my life doing Safaris
with these guys...Thank you so much. Love, Ellen & Yossi Joseph, NYC, USA
Mara Migration 2010
"Dear Daryl & Sharna
Our week with you will remain unforgetable and was certainly a "best
ever" experience. Stella was soon over her initial nervousness and is
proud of the fact that it was she who asked you if we could walk to the
river that last morning.
The camp was a real adventure - from the basics to sophisticated
dinners with an ever-changing table. Thank you Sharna. The food was very
good for five days and became remarkable after our kitchen visit!
You must have become exasperated by my point-and-shoot methods with a
camera. But I can buy or borrow superb images from such as you. In the
event, I have very many good shots of the wildlife and surroundings. I'm
proud of two good ones of the caracal, when my "handier" equipment made
a quick click possible (with Pierre's positioning of the vehicle).
All-in-all we really loved it. With great thanks to you both, to Pierre
& Phil and to all of your camp staff." Mike & Stella North, UK.
Our week with you will remain unforgetable and was certainly a "best
ever" experience. Stella was soon over her initial nervousness and is
proud of the fact that it was she who asked you if we could walk to the
river that last morning.
The camp was a real adventure - from the basics to sophisticated
dinners with an ever-changing table. Thank you Sharna. The food was very
good for five days and became remarkable after our kitchen visit!
You must have become exasperated by my point-and-shoot methods with a
camera. But I can buy or borrow superb images from such as you. In the
event, I have very many good shots of the wildlife and surroundings. I'm
proud of two good ones of the caracal, when my "handier" equipment made
a quick click possible (with Pierre's positioning of the vehicle).
All-in-all we really loved it. With great thanks to you both, to Pierre
& Phil and to all of your camp staff." Mike & Stella North, UK.
Mara Migration Sept 2010
What an incredible experience!
This was our second safari to Africa and, frankly, I thought our first trip would be hard to top. Was I ever wrong! The entire experience was magical. From the fabulous accommodations to the priceless wildlife experiences everything was beyond first rate. Daryl and Sharna are not only first class hosts but they have assembled a crew that are knowledgeable, great instructors and fun guides/companions. Our only regret was that we couldn't stay longer.
If you love animals and love Africa then this is THE tour that you want to be on. Don & Bev, Vancouver, Canada
This was our second safari to Africa and, frankly, I thought our first trip would be hard to top. Was I ever wrong! The entire experience was magical. From the fabulous accommodations to the priceless wildlife experiences everything was beyond first rate. Daryl and Sharna are not only first class hosts but they have assembled a crew that are knowledgeable, great instructors and fun guides/companions. Our only regret was that we couldn't stay longer.
If you love animals and love Africa then this is THE tour that you want to be on. Don & Bev, Vancouver, Canada
Mara Migration 2009
Jambo Bwanas,
Thanx guys for a great time during Barry's and my recent trip with you in the Mara.
We enjoyed it thoroughly and took away some great memories. A large part of the reason for our returns is the quality of guiding that you guys deliver. Not only are you well informed, but your value systems are aligned with my own and you guys add much more to the overall experience than mere guiding.
Happy birthday for Sunday Phil, and plse don’t hesitate to give us a call if you have time for a visit whilst in Cape Town……or whether we can be of any help during your stay. Salaams & sale kahle. Cedric Dallas, Stellenbosch, South Africa.
Thanx guys for a great time during Barry's and my recent trip with you in the Mara.
We enjoyed it thoroughly and took away some great memories. A large part of the reason for our returns is the quality of guiding that you guys deliver. Not only are you well informed, but your value systems are aligned with my own and you guys add much more to the overall experience than mere guiding.
Happy birthday for Sunday Phil, and plse don’t hesitate to give us a call if you have time for a visit whilst in Cape Town……or whether we can be of any help during your stay. Salaams & sale kahle. Cedric Dallas, Stellenbosch, South Africa.
Mara Migration 2008
Greetings Daryl and Sharna, I just wanted to take this opportunity to thank you both for our recent trip of a lifetime!! Seth and I, along with the Wilson's believe this was one of our most memorable trips ever. The staff that you put together and the expertise of both of you, along with Pierre, Phil and Johann made this an extraordinary adventure for us. Our photos from the week (which got better after our drives with you!!) serve as a beautiful reminder of our days in the Mara.
We just received your newsletter of the trips you have planned for 09. Although we will be unable to attend any next year, we do hope to do another trip with you in our future. In the mean time, best wishes for a wonderful holiday season and a successful 2009. Warmest regards, Shari and Seth Young, USA
We just received your newsletter of the trips you have planned for 09. Although we will be unable to attend any next year, we do hope to do another trip with you in our future. In the mean time, best wishes for a wonderful holiday season and a successful 2009. Warmest regards, Shari and Seth Young, USA
Mara Migration 2007
The late David, and Carol Hughes in the Mara with us.
Daryl & Sharna,
Our photographic safari with you & your two trusty guides, Phil & Pierre, was, for David & I, the ultimate 'Busman's holiday'. As you well know, camping in the bush was our way of life for many years. But it was never like this: we usually returned to camp in the evening exhausted, maybe sometimes exhilarated too if we've got some good footage - but always exhausted. So to have virtually everything laid on is pretty close to perfection. All we had to do was ensure we had the right lenses on when the action started & meanwhile just sit back & admire the views & leave the rest to you guys. It don't come any better than that. The kudos are true - your safaris are all that could be desired. And I am so glad we did it when we did - but oh how I wish we'd worked in the Mara thirty years ago. As it is, that safari with you will always remain a very special memory. Thank you. Carol Hughes, South Africa (Award-winning Wildlife film-maker.)
Our photographic safari with you & your two trusty guides, Phil & Pierre, was, for David & I, the ultimate 'Busman's holiday'. As you well know, camping in the bush was our way of life for many years. But it was never like this: we usually returned to camp in the evening exhausted, maybe sometimes exhilarated too if we've got some good footage - but always exhausted. So to have virtually everything laid on is pretty close to perfection. All we had to do was ensure we had the right lenses on when the action started & meanwhile just sit back & admire the views & leave the rest to you guys. It don't come any better than that. The kudos are true - your safaris are all that could be desired. And I am so glad we did it when we did - but oh how I wish we'd worked in the Mara thirty years ago. As it is, that safari with you will always remain a very special memory. Thank you. Carol Hughes, South Africa (Award-winning Wildlife film-maker.)
Mara Migration 2007
Dennis Kane,ex-National Geographic films.
Dear Daryl and Sharna, Just wanted to drop you a few lines to tell you that I had a terrific time on the Safari. Everything was just right. The group that you put together, your guides Phil and Pierre, the camp staff and of course the ever popular Carol and David Hughes. I sincerely hope to be able to do it again. Until that time arrives I wish you my best and hope that your arm is much better. Thanks again for a great time. Best regards DBK. Dennis Kane, USA.
Mara Migration 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007
Going on a Wildphotos Safari with Daryl and Sharna in
the Maasai Mara is an experience beyond all expectations. The experience of the
Guides and the freedom of movement in getting close to the Wildlife is simply
outstanding.The added bonus of being in the company of a professional
photographer is priceless as the method of getting the best "shots" requires the
guidance on hand.
Transport arrangements in the Safari
vehicles are comfortable and provides enough space for camera equipment.
Highly recommended.
Gerhard Geldenhuys, RSA
Mahale Mountains 2008
Our trip to the Mahale Mountains to view the chimps was extraordinary. We stayed
in wonderful a-frames that were open to broad views of Lake Tanganyika. We hiked
the mountains to find the chimps and were rewarded with sightings of Ruby and
her daughter, Rubicon. Then we happened upon the deposed alpha male, Fanana, who
was sitting on a large boulder in a dry creek bed. He sat there for a long time
with the sun just glistening off his back -- you would swear that he was posing
for us to photograph and we did. We traveled from Mahale to other camps in
Tanzania and Kenya. It was an exhilarating two weeks and we cannot wait for our
next trip with Daryl. John & Mary Lou Barter, South Carolina USA.
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