Your Safari, Our Passion
Cuckoo Safaris
- Office In:
- Size:
- 10-20 employees (Founded in 2019)
- Tour Types:
- Custom mid-range & luxury tours that can start every day
- Destinations:
- Price Range:
- $2,582 to $10,327 per person per day (MXN, excl. int'l flights)
for a custom tour
Your request will be sent directly to the operator
If preferred, you can contact the operator directly
Reviews
An amazing experience our first time to Africa, we would definitely recommend Cuckoo to others!
Thank you for a very positive experience our first time to Africa! What could have been very stressful and nerve-wracking experience was alleviated through booking their safari itinerary. We booked the 12 Day Hwange National Park, Victoria Falls, Chobe National Park to Okavango Delta trip. The booking process was very simple, almost too much so that we were just nervous that maybe we missed something. Tatenda was very responsive whenever we needed to contact about the booking/itinerary.
When we arrived in Victoria Falls, Simon and Tatenda were waiting for us in the arrivals area and we were immediately off to Hwange. Simon was great about explaining our overall itinerary, but also just welcoming us with some background knowledge about the places we were passing through- the economy, the people, the customs, etc.
The lodge at Hwange was breathtaking. The open atrium was beautiful, the rooms were classy and had great views, and the back area where the fire pit and pool were perfectly overlooking the watering hole. We would just relax and observe the animals- it was our favorite view of any of the lodging we stayed at for the duration of the trip. Our guide Bheki was extremely knowledgeable in his craft and prompted our fascination with tracking. Not to mention a new appreciation of birds! His observation skills were enviable and we saw so many animals there, including some we didn’t think we would see at all or didn’t know existed!
We returned to Victoria Falls and had an amazing sunset cruise. The drinks and snacks with the ambiance of the Zambezi River were lovely. We were so impressed with the ability of the captain and crew to spot animals from the boat. The following day, we saw the namesake falls itself, which was breathtaking. There was a bit of time to explore the town and then we went to the private game reserve with our guide Nico that ended with delicious bush dinner.
Our transfer from Zimbabwe to Botswana was actually incredibly smooth. Simon drove us to the border for handoff to Gift, who was from Puku Safaris- Cuckoo’s sister company in Botswana. Border crossings can be quite hectic, but Gift guided us and a family of 4 through this process very smoothly and patiently. It was the easiest border crossing that my very well traveled friends had ever experienced.
Our two Chobe game drives via vehicle were guided by the talented Figo. His driving skills were second to none- I want to drive like him when I grow up. He was very pleasant and amiable, answering all of our incessant questions about being a guide, the parks, plants, animals, and whatever crossed our minds and he had a great sense of humor. Everyone in our vehicle wanted to see a leopard, and he was able to track one the first morning. We were the first to find it and one of a few vehicles that were able to see it before it disappeared like smoke into the brush. It was amazing.
The boat game drives in Chobe were also really cool and you get to see the animals in a much different way. The guides on the boats showed us different things, so each evening was a unique experience. It was definitely worth it to do game drives via both land and water. We ate dinner at the Chobe Safari Lodge buffet each night and the food was incredible, which I didn’t expect to say about a buffet.
As we ventured out towards Maun, our itinerary seemed less full, but that was likely due to the remote locations we needed to travel to. Hearing the animals at night and watching the elephants drink water at Elephant Sands was spellbinding. The meerkats were adorable and so worth the morning drive.
Once we reached Maun, Mr. Lee transported us to the Mokoro dugout canoe expedition. I would say that this is less of a canoe experience and more of a bush walk, for those who are participating. It is performed by people in the community and helps to support them. I think we walked for about 2 hrs. The following day, Mr. Lee deftly guided us in the Moremi Game Reserve, and poetically checked off the last of the animals we wanted to see. It was perfect.
A note about food and beverage- we were worried because we have dietary restrictions (vegetarians and food allergies), but everywhere we went was very accommodating and we didn’t have to worry about it at all. Cuckoo did well to relay our specifications, and everywhere that fed us either knew or confirmed with us what we could eat. Buffet style meals always had plentiful options for all of us. They also constantly provided bottled water so we never had to worry about buying our own or be concerned about having to make bold choices.
Overall, I can’t say enough about what a great experience Cuckoo made this. They booked unique, comfortable accommodations. They ensured that we had extremely competent guides who made sure that we were safe and respectful of wildlife while still getting to see a wide array of animals and educate us about an expanse of knowledge. Simon was very friendly and kind- making sure we were comfortable, reminding us of our itinerary, answering our questions, giving us suggestions, and educating us about life for people and animals alike. Thank you so much for everyone responsible for these bookings because it was a once in a lifetime trip. I hope to visit again one day.
Amazing, specially the guide Shelton in Zimbawe side and Delphister in Zambia side
Perfect tour, experienced guide Shelton in Zimbawe and Delphister in Zambia.
Both help us crossing the border to Zambia and viceversa and made everything smooth and Quick. Do not hesitate choose these company and both guides
DE
Email Roger, Marie and Sonja | 65+ years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
Brilliant visit of the Viktoria Falls - both sides
Cilo and Mike were kompetent in explaining the history as well the geology and nature of this special area. They were very courteous while accompating the hole 6h tour. We felt anytime very safe.
Thank you very much for this excellent experience !
Email Steve | 50-65 years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
Great experience
Great tour. Definitely worth a visit to both sides of Victoria falls. I was lucky to have both Brown on the Zimbabwe side and Lucky on the Zambia side. Seamless entry via the immigration with both guides helping out. (Don’t forget to get the Kaza visa if you are looking to do this and a safari in Chobe)
Great detail given about the falls from both guides throughout.
We saw some people walking the bridge and the long walk to the other side. Lots of vehicles and big trucks on that dirt track, so having a vehicle pick us up on both sides (with air con and water) was just perfect.
Brown took us to the ‘Big Tree’ on the way back to our hotel, a 1200 year old Baobab tree. We even saw elephants, monkeys and other wildlife on the way/ way back to our hotel.
Me and my wife both felt very much at ease with both guides who helped takes photos of us constantly on both tours and gave us how long we wanted at every view point.
Ponchos were provided as well, which were very much needed when we went, as it was the season of high water, so a lot of spray.
These guys were great and I highly recommend them.
DE
Email Mary & Wayne Gokey | 50-65 years of age | Experience level: first safari
The Heart of Zimbabwe
Simon and his team were first class professionals. They brought us to the heart of Zimbabwe and into the hearts of the people. Well organized tours with many options for diversions. We dream of Africa.
Email Trymon | 35-50 years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
Jam packed African experience
we had a great time in Victoria falls. I was picked up at Victoria falls airport and from then onwards l knew l was in trustworthy hands. The guides were knowledgeable and always available. I loved every minute and had a such fantastic time. It was a great experience in a wonderful little town. I will definitely back in Victoria Falls. Thank you Cuckoo Safari. I highly recommend the company