When we decided to team up with a bespoke operator in the south there was only one choice: the Foxes. The family established tea estates in the Mafinga highlands 50 years back and since then have acquired an unrivalled knowledge of the Ruaha, Selous and Katavi National Parks. In the early eighties they were pioneers in establishing camps and lodges in the region’s prime game-viewing locations and have been polishing and perfecting their safari operation ever since. And the addition of Lazy Lagoon to the Foxes portfolio means that the company are also now able to offer a dreamily hedonistic Indian ocean experience which dovetails perfectly with their safari operation.
Why we chose this partner
- The Foxes own and manage some superb lodges in southern Tanzania’s most spectacular game locations, including Ruaha, Stanleys Kopje and Rufiji. They can also help you book the amazing Greystoke Mahale
- They use expert guides and drivers who ensure that you not only see a lot of game but that you learn a lot about it, too
- They have a fleet of specially adapted game vehicles with tiered seating, guaranteeing maximum visibility and comfort
- They own a number of light aircraft and have their own pilots. They can be more flexible in getting you to and from their lodges and adopt schedules to suit prevailing weather conditions and your needs
- We loved the exceptional food - many ingredients are grown on the estates surrounding their lodges
Please be aware
- Please be aware that i-escape can only vouch for those properties which are featured and reviewed on our website. For other areas and accommodations, while we do trust our operator to provide the best options for your needs, you should make sure that you are happy with their suggestions before confirming
Best time to go
From November to May (rainy season), things get increasingly wet and sticky, with April and May having the heaviest rainfall. This is the 'green season' with lush vegetation, full rivers and lakes, and abundant birdlife and wild flowers, as well as baby animals. From March to early May, some roads become impassable.
Our top tips
Lodging
Most itineraries include stays at some of the Foxes own camps, which we thoroughly recommend. Among our favourites are Ruaha, Stanleys Kopje, Rufiji and Katavi Wildlife Camp, not forgetting their dreamy Lazy Lagoon by the Indian Ocean. They can also help you book the amazing Greystoke Mahale and Sand Rivers Selous. Click on any camp name to read our detailed review. Other than that, you can be led by their suggestions on accommodation, or browse our reviews and, if any jump out, request that they include them in your itinerary.
Activities
Some of the things we loved...
- Learning about yellow baboons from scientists at Mikumi
- Fishing for red snapper from a wooden dhow
- Fly camping in the remote bush (tents, food, porterage provided)
- Walking safari with a private guide (great for birdwatchers)
- Visiting the fish market and slave quarters of Bagamoyo
Activities include:
- Birdwatching
- Hiking
- Hot air ballooning
- Kayaking
- Plantlife / flora
- Private guided tours
- Safaris
- Sailing
- Swimming
- Traditional cultures
- Wildlife
With Kids
Children are welcome on safari, but this is highly dependent on the camps and lodges you wish to stay in and the activities you wish to do. Tailormade Safaris can advise you on this when you make your booking enquiry.
Best for:
Children (4-12 years), Teens (over 12)
For more family-friendly places, see our Kids Collection
Transport
Within the camps, Foxes' own specially adapted game vehicles offer tiered seating for improved visibility on game drives. Between camps, given the distances in southern Tanzania, you'll almost certainly fly rather than drive (details in each itinerary): Foxes own a number of light aircraft and have their own pilots, which can help them adapt schedules to suit weather conditions and your needs.
Location
From the Airport
Your contact person from the tour operator will meet you at the airport, and introduce you to your guide/driver, who will take to your first hotel. He will be your main point of contact for the rest of your trip. You will also have direct access to your contact at the local tour operator office, who can deal with any further requirements you may have.
Detailed directions will be provided as you create your itinerary with the tour operator, and when your booking is confirmed.
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