Founder of Dancing Zebra Safari, Jessica Mathews
Dancing Zebra Safari
- Located In:
-
United States
- Size:
- 1-5 employees (Founded in 2016)
- Member Of:
- Africa Travel Association (ATA) & The International Ecotourism Society (T.I.E.S)
- Tour Types:
- Custom mid-range & luxury tours that can start every day
- Destinations:
- Price Range:
- $12,151 to $43,397 per person per day (MXN, excl. int'l flights)
Reviews
Email Marina | 35-50 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Unbelievable!
Our trip to Tanzania this past December holiday was a once-in-lifetime type experience. Jessica at Dancing Zebra planned the most amazing two weeks for us. Every detail was thought of. We were taken care of every step of the way. We traveled as a family of 4, our daughters are 19 and 17, and this was such a perfect age for the four of us to embark on our first African safari. We are so happy we chose Tanzania for our adventure. The lodges we stayed at were impeccable, the service was top notch and the 3 course meals and buffet breakfasts were outstanding. The real highlight besides all of the amazing animals we saw including all Big 5, and so many more, was our private guide Frank. Frank is absolutely the best guide ever. His knowledge about every animal, every plant, every location we hit along the way far surpassed anything we could have wished for. I literally cried the last day we had to leave Frank. The truck was fully stocked each day for us as well. I would highly recommend this 5 star safari trip to anyone who wants to explore Tanzania with the finest! It was truly a trip of a lifetime!
CA
Email Celina & Sang | 20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Hands down the best safari tour operator in Tanzania
We cannot say enough good things about Dancing Zebras Safari. My partner and I felt extremely well taken care of from start to finish. Jessica is extremely responsive, and she personalizes and caters the safari itinerary based on what you're looking for. We didn't really know what to expect since this was our first time doing a safari trip and also our first time in Africa, but it was clear as soon as we arrived in Tanzania that all we had to do was enjoy the trip. Dancing Zebras Safari takes care of all transportation, meals, drinks, accommodations and beyond. The scheduling is also very well thought out (not overly planned so as there's no down time, but enough activities planned throughout the day that it feels like you're making the most of the trip). This was also our honeymoon trip, and Jessica & her team planned some beautiful sundowners and private dining experiences after our game drives. The whole crew really went out of their way to make this trip so special for us, and we are so grateful.
This trip is definitely worth the price! The accommodations were some of the best we've been to, and the service is top notch. Staying at a lodge completely immersed in nature (we saw giraffes and elephants from our room and waterbucks and buffaloes from our dining table) while still having access to attentive service, delicious food and beautiful rooms felt out of this world. We felt like we had an authentic safari experience without having to sacrifice on comfort.
We would be remiss if we didn't mention the service and the amazing crew that helped make our safari experience unforgettable (shout out to Damian, Esther, Greg, Wright, Carlos, Adolf, Martha & various others whose names we didn't catch). Everyone we met was extremely welcoming and kind. We especially liked that we were designated a team of staff during each of our stays so you get the chance to build a relationship with each and every one of them.
Last, but not least, the tour itself was insane. We saw so much more than we could ever imagine. We shared some special private moments with the animals which we will forever cherish. Our guide, Robert, was the absolute best. He has an endless knowledge of the animals, the park and Tanzania. We learned so much during our time with him, and shared many stories and laughs as well. He also has the best eyesight in the world. He can spot animals with his naked eye that we can only see with our binoculars.
10/10.
Email Erin | 20-35 years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
Amazingly thoughtful and there for us 100%
Quite honestly, I was a little hesitant to book with Dancing Zebra because I had trouble finding online reviews, but I couldn't be happier that I booked our honeymoon through them.
From the very beginning, Jessica was flexible with our budget and needs and gave us an excellent recommendation for a 6-night safari. Every aspect and every quesiton was thoroughly covered by both Jessica and Abdullie. They gave us a full breakdown of what to expect each day from both the driver/tour and the accommodations through both an online portal and a customized pamplet that gave tips on everything from the details of the accommodations to tipping customs to even what to pack for the trip.
We actually ran into a problem with a self-booked flight heading into the safari--the flight had been cancelled without any notification to me or my husband. I contacted Dancing Zebra to let them know, and Abdullie was all over it, even though the flight had not been part of the itinerary that Dancing Zebra had covered. He was able to get in touch with the airline that cancelled and helped to ensure that I was booked on another airline to get to Kilimanjaro Airport to be in time for the start of our safari.
While our guide, Peter, was amazing and knowledgeable throughout the entire trip, the most enjoyable part of our trip was our stay at the Nasikia Naona Moru camp in southern Serengeti. My husband and I were thrilled with how luxurious the tent was (the epitome of "glamping"), but what really made the stay was the staff. They were so kind and thoughtful--I had the flu throughout the entire stay and they made sure I had enough fresh ginger tea to cure an entire family with the flu. The last night we were there, they made us a special dinner outside, underneath the stars. The staff sang and danced us a farewell song and we had such a wonderful time!!!
I cannot thank Dancing Zebra enough for the amazing honeymoon that we had.
Email Mary | 65+ years of age | Experience level: first safari
Thank you for the joy!
I want to convey my appreciation to Jessica Mathews and Dancing Zebra Safaris for the careful curating of a wonderful first safari in the Serengeti and Ngorongoro (Tanzania) in mid-October. For many reasons, this trip was special for my husband and I and for our longtime traveling buddies. We knew it would likely be our last “big” adventure together. And it exceeded any expectations, both in experiences and the feeling of connectedness with place and people and landscape it left me with.
A safari had been my dream since about age 6, as a tomboy who grew up riding logging roads in rural North Carolina with her daddy in his truck, looking for deer, bear and anything we might find. The Serengeti did not disappoint. I loved being an insignificant human in the animal world, I loved being and living in the out of doors, I loved the endless horizon and being immersed in watching what the beautiful and amazing creatures in that world do.
I also loved the warm, smart and funny Tanzanian people we met, from those helping us to those informing and protecting us, to the residents of Mto wa Mbu village who welcomed and waved at us and the preschool kids who swamped us with loving gestures. Wow.
We have traveled enough to know the difference between ordinary experiences and extraordinary ones. Authenticity is that difference. That comes only from guidance by someone who knows the landscape and the right people and who is dogged about getting clients the right experience. And, someone who is respected by the folks in the place being visited, as Jessica Mathews clearly is.
From a practical point of view, Jessica kept in communication with us and gave us valuable advice throughout planning and throughout our journey. By virtue of distance and experiences, it was not an inexpensive trip, but we received incredible value for the money we spent. Jessica and our hosts and guides provided highly practical information about planning, preparations, what to expect, what to pack (we followed Dancing Zebra's list almost to the item) and how to handle any difficulties. All were attentive and accessible throughout the process and trip.
Thank you, Jessica and Dancing Zebra. I loved that part of the world. I would go back every year if I had the money. It changed me. And, it was fulfilling in a way I have found it difficult to pinpoint. I am now connected to Africa and the Serengeti and Tanzania in a way I’ve not experienced with other places I’ve visited.
Our theme for this trip was “Finding the Joy.” We found it and brought it back. The bumps we experienced were just bumps - the joy will last and last!
Email Chris Chan | 65+ years of age | Experience level: first safari
Jessica, while being attentive, arranged a top-notch safari vacation that was unparalleled.
A Heart Full of Africa!
Even though we tagged along on this trip after it was planned by our neighbor and her Canadian friends, it felt like the trip I've been waiting to take my whole life! Jessica and her crew at Dancing Zebra Safari Co. arranged a 5-star trip to four African countries: Tanzania, Zimbabwe, Botswana, and South Africa. Before departure, Jessica was patient with me while I asked a million questions. She provided us with great advice and a fabulous, full itinerary. The trip was planned to perfection, and even when we missed a flight due to a traffic jam, a plane was available for us that same afternoon!
Of the four countries we visited, Tanzania was my favorite. Our safari drives were made incredible by our experienced, passionate, knowledgeable, and amicable guides. Steven Mwakajumba was our exceptional guide for five glorious days! He anticipated some awesome animal interactions as we traversed the bush, and ensured our spotting of the Big 5. He shared great photography tips and techniques as we tried to capture the beauty around us. He was our guide and translator for our visit to a Maasai boma. What an incredible experience that was! As we learned amazing details about animals, plants, and cultural traditions, our group formed a special bond with Steven. We wanted to take him with us to the Serengeti! He seemed to want to come, too, both for our sakes, and to check up on a male lion for whom he has a fondness, and has named Tishala.
Our Serengeti guide, Mokili (The Elephant Whisperer), was also a blessing. Like Steven, he had a great love for his country, its traditions, history, and the flora and fauna of the incredible bush. We learned so much from him! He tailored our experience to what we wanted to see. We spent a morning with the wildebeests so that we could see them crossing the Grumeti River! I can still hear the soundtrack of their grunts!
After our game drives, we came back to migration camps that were picture-perfect! Talk about radical hospitality! There was always staff available to welcome us back to camp, offer wet washcloths for a quick freshen-up, and ask about our days. We had butlers, room attendants and escorts who served us with warmth, caring, and dedication. Shout-outs to our beautiful butlers, Juma, Josephat, and Rashid! Such exquisite service! The accommodations were as comfortable as they were elegant. Imagine waking up to the rhythmic grunts of hippos at the nearby river! The meals were phenomenal! One chef, Zakia, shared a recipe for house-made muesli when we asked her about it! One particular night (our last one) stood out at Elewana Serengeti Migration Camp. Rashid arranged for our group to have a private dinner on a secluded deck with a fire pit overlooking the bush. We were served delicious Swahili food, family style. After dinner, the kitchen and wait staff paraded out and sang us the Jambo Song, complete with drums and clapping. What a treat! We felt like the most important guests to have ever stayed there!
In Zimbabwe, I enjoyed the Mbano Manor Hotel's staff, and loved the food there. We saw loads of cool birds right on the property! Ruvimbo, Jabulani, and Praise were stand-outs! Themba was a good guide for Victoria Falls. He helped us find some great birds on or hike to the falls. Our game drive in Chobe N.P. was enhanced by our competent guide, Tau. A shout-out, too, for two drivers who had such easy laughs, good stories, and great information about local interests: Bheks (Bhekinkosi) in Victoria Falls, and Bat (Bathandwa) in Cape Town. In Cape Town, I especially enjoyed the Tree House Boutique Hotel. Sheila, Elton, Prince, Zukiswa, Melody, and Asisipho took good care of us! (And they did it with love and passion!) David Williams did a nice job as our guide on the Cape Peninsula tour.
I believe I left part of my heart in Africa. The part that came home is full to bursting!
Email Judi | 50-65 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Dancing Zebra is very organized, thorough, and knowledgeable.
Jessica was very knowledgeable, accommodating with flight changes, shared a great tool to calculate tipping, a packing list. The meet and greet to skip the customs line was well worth it after the long day of travel. The driver and guides were all amazing! They were happy to stop whenever we wanted, answered all our questions worked so hard and succeeded at finding all the animals we wanted to see. Ladies, I do recommend checking to see if parks have bathrooms.
Email James | 50-65 years of age | Experience level: first safari
The complete attention to detail and to us, made us feel like royalty!
From the moment we started planning our safari, we had Jessica’s full attention. From the preferences survey to the advice on the actual travel; to the personal discussions about what we wanted from our safari, I felt like we had a completely personalized and top-notch experience. Our camps and guides were way beyond my expectations. I truly felt like royalty from the time I stepped off the plane until we got back in the plane to head home.
Email Heather | 65+ years of age | Experience level: first safari
Freddie was an amazing tour guide; very knowledgeable, fun and patient.
Dancing Zebra did a great job organizing our trip!! All the lodges we stayed at were fantastic! The staff was very friendly, inviting and helpful. It truly was an amazing experience.
Email Adam + Madison | 20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Unbelievably great honeymoon experience
Our experience with Dancing Zebra was absolutely fantastic. We did a 5 day safari in the Northern Serengeti followed by 5 days in Zanzibar on the beach. Jessica took care of basically everything outside of the flights for us, and set us up for an unbelievably great honeymoon experience. After spending a brief overnight in Arusha at Hamerkop, we went to Lemala Kuria Hills in the Northern Serengeti for our safari. The staff, food, and accommodations were fantastic and we felt so special and celebrated while there. A special shout out to Damian and Godwil for taking such great care of us while we were there. The safari itself was also so beautiful and a true life experience, thanks to our guide Steven. We got to see all of the Big 5 in one trip!! We then went to Zanzibar where we got to relax in beautiful Kilindi. We had a personal butler take care of our every need in a private villa there. It was the perfect combination of action / activity and relaxation. My wife and I cannot thank Jessica, the Dancing Zebra Safari, and the staff at Hamerkop, Lemala, and Kilindi enough for a honeymoon to remember.
Email Heather | 35-50 years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
Comprehensive and Quality Service
Dancing Zebra Safari helped us plan and ensure a wonderful experience with the mountain gorillas and golden monkeys in Rwanda.
There are many moving parts to traveling in Africa and I highly recommend utilizing a travel service like Dancing Zebra Safari to help navigate the details and logistics that are involved. Their local expertise allows you to relax because you know they've thought of everything and you can simply focus on the experience. Once all is confirmed, they provide very detailed information about what to expect, what to pack and what to consider as you're preparing for and executing the trip.
We had a wonderful guide, Jean-Marie, who is a lovely human who was knowledgeable and provided great service. We learned about Rwandan culture and developed a deeper appreciation for the country's history and spirit through the many hours we spent with him. We will never forget the immersive mountain gorilla experience. It was beautiful to witness them in their home and to observe their behaviors up close. Obviously you must keep your distance for a number of reasons, but it's an intimate encounter nonetheless. The staff at Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel took great care of us and even provided foot massages and cleaned our hiking boots upon returning from the treks.
A suggestion for consideration is related to tipping. While tipping range guidance is provided and tipping is not mandatory, it's hard to imagine not tipping the locals who work so hard and provide such great care and service. To this end, it would be great if the tipping amounts were determined prior to the trip and included in the overall costs. This way, you don't have to carry a bunch of cash with you and can fully relax. This said, you will still want cash on hand for unexpected needs or unexpected tipping. For example, we weren't prepared to tip the gorilla or monkey trackers.