Testimonials
This longed-for adventure went beyond my expectations! Peter’s Safari does it all. Accommodations and meals couldn’t be any better. The animal viewing was truly awesome and having Karine Aigner Wildlife Photographer and Journalist as another guide was an added bonus. Peter certainly does a trip of a lifetime. Don’t wait to take yours!
Patricia Catanese
Chagrin Falls, OH October 2023
Mary and I are very pleased to highly recommend Peter’s Safaris based on our amazing experiences during our October 2023 trip to Kenya’s Masai Mara. From start to finish, every aspect was top-notch, and this was truly the trip of a lifetime. Peter’s love of wildlife, respect for Africa and investment in its people were reflected in his safari.
Peter handled every detail of the trip, from escorts through passport control and drivers at the airport, to first-class accommodations & dining and knowledgeable, warm guides and hosts. Prior to our journey he anticipated all questions and through personal calls, emails (plus a detailed “What to Expect” document), he provided valuable guidance on flight selection, required visas, vaccinations, comprehensive packing lists, camera equipment, etc. Another reviewer concisely summed it up: “Traveling with Peter is like traveling with a friend who's done it before and knows all the ins and outs.”
Peter focuses on providing adventures for small groups of up to 12 people – often family groups or several friends. One result is that each large Land Cruiser-type safari vehicle carries only around 3-4 guests, thus affording everyone clear views and easy conversation with the guide and others. Our safari was comprised of 3 pairs of guests and 2 individuals that became fast friends and readily mixed it up on each drive and at meals. Peter and his wonderful guest host Karine joined us for meals, and we all compared notes on the day’s sightings, and enjoyed lively wide-ranging conversations.
I learned that every safari he designs is a custom product and knew that all animal encounters are different. I can say, however, that each of our wildlife rides was over-the-top amazing. Because of the skill of our guides and their intimate familiarity with the Mara (as well as some very good luck), we observed virtually every animal I could imagine, plus more than a few surprises! Importantly, the guides/drivers working with Peter were not only very knowledgeable, but also clearly passionate about their work and sharing their respect for the animals and the environment. Moreover, breakfasts and “sundowner” happy hours in the bush were perfect ways to cap the morning and evening outings.
Lastly, the trip afforded us the opportunity to learn about the Masai people, their way of life and proud heritage. Peter took us to a Masai village, a primary school he has helped develop, and a new charcoal-producing facility he is sponsoring which is run by and employs a number of Masai women. His efforts benefit both the Masai and the wildlife under their stewardship.
Mary and I were most satisfied with our trip and glad we got connected with Peter Balunek and Peter’s Safaris.
Peter handled every detail of the trip, from escorts through passport control and drivers at the airport, to first-class accommodations & dining and knowledgeable, warm guides and hosts. Prior to our journey he anticipated all questions and through personal calls, emails (plus a detailed “What to Expect” document), he provided valuable guidance on flight selection, required visas, vaccinations, comprehensive packing lists, camera equipment, etc. Another reviewer concisely summed it up: “Traveling with Peter is like traveling with a friend who's done it before and knows all the ins and outs.”
Peter focuses on providing adventures for small groups of up to 12 people – often family groups or several friends. One result is that each large Land Cruiser-type safari vehicle carries only around 3-4 guests, thus affording everyone clear views and easy conversation with the guide and others. Our safari was comprised of 3 pairs of guests and 2 individuals that became fast friends and readily mixed it up on each drive and at meals. Peter and his wonderful guest host Karine joined us for meals, and we all compared notes on the day’s sightings, and enjoyed lively wide-ranging conversations.
I learned that every safari he designs is a custom product and knew that all animal encounters are different. I can say, however, that each of our wildlife rides was over-the-top amazing. Because of the skill of our guides and their intimate familiarity with the Mara (as well as some very good luck), we observed virtually every animal I could imagine, plus more than a few surprises! Importantly, the guides/drivers working with Peter were not only very knowledgeable, but also clearly passionate about their work and sharing their respect for the animals and the environment. Moreover, breakfasts and “sundowner” happy hours in the bush were perfect ways to cap the morning and evening outings.
Lastly, the trip afforded us the opportunity to learn about the Masai people, their way of life and proud heritage. Peter took us to a Masai village, a primary school he has helped develop, and a new charcoal-producing facility he is sponsoring which is run by and employs a number of Masai women. His efforts benefit both the Masai and the wildlife under their stewardship.
Mary and I were most satisfied with our trip and glad we got connected with Peter Balunek and Peter’s Safaris.
Mary & Bill Patton
Acworth, GA October 2023
Wow! What an experience! Being in the midst of this vast game preserve, getting to know my Maasai driver (and other Maasai folk), and seeing the game in their natural habitat - unforgettable! -a big checkmark on my bucket list!!
As an old geezer in the midst of my 90th year I had a lot of doubt about my ability to keep up but Peter assured me I could do what I felt like doing with no problem - and he was right! Turned out my favorite part was getting up early (very early!), leaving camp in the dark for the morning drive, enjoying a midmorning breakfast under an acacia tree, then futzing around (seeing a village or a school) ‘til we returned to camp for a too large lunch.
I went on a couple of evening drives, but really enjoyed sitting on the front deck of the tent watching monkeys play not 15’-20’ from me, or (in the second camp) watching hippos frolic in the river.
Peter does a helluva job arranging everything - great accommodations and food, plus organizing the very pleasant and helpful Maasai people. Call if you'd like more info from an old folk's point of view. Go, you won't regret it!
As an old geezer in the midst of my 90th year I had a lot of doubt about my ability to keep up but Peter assured me I could do what I felt like doing with no problem - and he was right! Turned out my favorite part was getting up early (very early!), leaving camp in the dark for the morning drive, enjoying a midmorning breakfast under an acacia tree, then futzing around (seeing a village or a school) ‘til we returned to camp for a too large lunch.
I went on a couple of evening drives, but really enjoyed sitting on the front deck of the tent watching monkeys play not 15’-20’ from me, or (in the second camp) watching hippos frolic in the river.
Peter does a helluva job arranging everything - great accommodations and food, plus organizing the very pleasant and helpful Maasai people. Call if you'd like more info from an old folk's point of view. Go, you won't regret it!
Philip Brasfield
Chagrin Falls, OH October 2023
I have been on safari with Peter. It was one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. And for those who are trying to get away from it all and de-stress, I cannot think of a better way to do it.
Lisa Roberts-Mamone
Gates Mill, OH August 2023
This was our first trip to Africa and having Peter's knowledge and experience was absolutely invaluable. We loved everything from the accommodations to the food and all the amazing people we met, not to mention the INCREDIBLE wildlife. We learned so much about the animals, land, people, and culture. Truly a memorable experience!
Susan & Torre Ahlberg
Longmont, CO August 2023
We are writing to thank you personally for all that you did to make our trip to Kenya such a
remarkable experience. As our host and outfitter, you made us feel welcome and totally
involved.
Thanks for all the extras that made the comings and goings comfortable and stress-free. Even before we left, you gave us very specific help with visas, immunizations and Covid testing. When we landed in Kenya, you arranged for us to be met by your concierge partners who expedited our required stops through immigration and customs in Nairobi and then drove us to the Hotel Serena. They did the same for our departure 23 days late.
In all, we visited 5 different camps covering north central to southern Kenya. Each camp you chose had unique ecology and wildlife, from the rhinos in Lewa to the semi-arid Samburu region, to the huge numbers and variety of wildlife in the Massai-Mara.
In addition, you made sure we had interactions with local people, including a trip to a semi-nomadic Samburu village, visits to two schools, an afternoon excursion to Talek, a small town in the Mara, on market day, and a session with a local blacksmith. These encounters gave us a look at rural Africa and introduced us to genuinely friendly people not associated with our safari.
You also arranged for us to interact with wildlife researchers and conservation officials and to visit wildlife rescue sanctuaries.
The big draw for visiting Africa is, of course, animals in the wild. Where do I start? Lions, leopards, cheetahs, rhinos, hippos, elephants, giraffes, and crocodiles, oh my! Not to mention herds of buffalo, impalas, gazelles, wildebeests, and zebras. There were so many different antelope species that one of our groups suggested, not completely facetiously, flash cards. And then there were the birds – countless species including predatory eagles, owls and vultures, territorial plovers, truly Magnificent Starlings, and ostriches fully displaying their amorous, parental, and protective behaviors.
You say you saw them all at the zoo? No, you didn’t. A group of lions on a hunt, the leopard dragging its wildebeest kill up a tree, the plovers hopping around to lead us away from their ground nests, the giraffes scurrying back up the bank to avoid the crocs at the river’s edge, the elephants literally shimmying under a fence or interrupting our river-bank lunch were a few of the interactions between the animals, and sometimes with us, that were experiences unique to our visit.
Thanks again Peter. We will pass along word about your amazing safaris.
Thanks for all the extras that made the comings and goings comfortable and stress-free. Even before we left, you gave us very specific help with visas, immunizations and Covid testing. When we landed in Kenya, you arranged for us to be met by your concierge partners who expedited our required stops through immigration and customs in Nairobi and then drove us to the Hotel Serena. They did the same for our departure 23 days late.
In all, we visited 5 different camps covering north central to southern Kenya. Each camp you chose had unique ecology and wildlife, from the rhinos in Lewa to the semi-arid Samburu region, to the huge numbers and variety of wildlife in the Massai-Mara.
In addition, you made sure we had interactions with local people, including a trip to a semi-nomadic Samburu village, visits to two schools, an afternoon excursion to Talek, a small town in the Mara, on market day, and a session with a local blacksmith. These encounters gave us a look at rural Africa and introduced us to genuinely friendly people not associated with our safari.
You also arranged for us to interact with wildlife researchers and conservation officials and to visit wildlife rescue sanctuaries.
The big draw for visiting Africa is, of course, animals in the wild. Where do I start? Lions, leopards, cheetahs, rhinos, hippos, elephants, giraffes, and crocodiles, oh my! Not to mention herds of buffalo, impalas, gazelles, wildebeests, and zebras. There were so many different antelope species that one of our groups suggested, not completely facetiously, flash cards. And then there were the birds – countless species including predatory eagles, owls and vultures, territorial plovers, truly Magnificent Starlings, and ostriches fully displaying their amorous, parental, and protective behaviors.
You say you saw them all at the zoo? No, you didn’t. A group of lions on a hunt, the leopard dragging its wildebeest kill up a tree, the plovers hopping around to lead us away from their ground nests, the giraffes scurrying back up the bank to avoid the crocs at the river’s edge, the elephants literally shimmying under a fence or interrupting our river-bank lunch were a few of the interactions between the animals, and sometimes with us, that were experiences unique to our visit.
Thanks again Peter. We will pass along word about your amazing safaris.
John and Judy Martinko
Carbondale, IL August 2021
Thank you for an amazing experience and a "TRIP OF A LIFETIME!". The game drives were fantastic, along with the accommodations, cultural events, sundowners, bush breakfasts and dinners and FOOD/DRINK. What a smile ... pure enjoyment, fun and great adventure. The night on the river bed was one of my favorites! I was giddy with the mara and its treasures ... the lions, the herds, and just the sheer beauty of its vastness! So so special! I loved our drives looking for leopards! Patience and perseverance (great guides like Eki) were so key in our success! Awesome.
John and Kate Ault
Longmont, co August/September 2021
We spent three amazing weeks with Peter in Kenya seeing the countryside, wildlife in their natural habitat, with Kenyans teaching us about their culture. We had elephants munching on shrubs right outside our tent! From teal and magenta birds to roaring lions, each day was a new experience. Peter will work with. you to give you your journey of a lifetime.
Gary and JEnnifer Ault
Chardon, OH August/September 2020
Peter's safari was an extraordinary experience, one I highly recommend. The wildlife was everything expected and more. Peter's attention to every detail was exceptional, as were the accommodations. He gave us a view into the Maasai and their culture. A truly unique experience. Thank you, Peter.
Kathie Brandenburg
Worthington, OH February 2020
The trip was incredible!! Peter had everything planned, helped with all of the flights, the required visas, reservations at a 5-star hotel in Nairobi, and accommodations at the safari camp. The safari personnel were all about service and making the trip a bucket list experience. Food was fantastic. Our vehicle driver Ben, got us to the big cats and other wildlife for some fantastic photos. Photography was the major purpose of my trip but to experience the animals at such close range was incredible. We toured a native village which was very informative as to their customs and life. I will be going back again with Peter.
Gene Robinson
Pittsburgh, PA February 2020
Terrific experience in every way. Beautiful accommodations both at hotel Serena as well as at camp Entim. Great food and helpful friendly staff. Stunning scenery and animals with knowledgeable guides.
Peter has put together a most memorable safari experience.
Peter has put together a most memorable safari experience.
Victoria Bauer
Shaker Heights, OH February 2020
Peter Wildlife Safaris is by far, the best safari experience we have had in our three African trips.. Here’s why: We were driven to the perfect position every time to observe the animals for viewing or photographing; Peter, and his chosen guides, were the most knowledgeable, friendly and helpful support group possible; Peter is a super photographer himself but kindly and skillfully assists photographers of all levels catch the images they want; the facilities and food were first class. There are many highly rated and expensive safari agents, but Peter and his Wildlife Safaris is by far the best experience and the best value you can get..Our advice: Don’t waste your time looking at any other guide group....Choose …. Peter’s Wildlife Safaris….
John and Pat Leech
Munson, OH February 2019
A fantastic trip. The safari that you dream about!
Doreen Merritt Sockel
Chesterland, OH February 2019
Peter does a fantastic job of organizing your trip. I had been on safari once before and went with Peter to Tanzania this past February and he exceeded my expectations.
Jeff and Mary Lynn Griff
Aurora, OH February 2019
Trip of a lifetime. Honestly, I wouldn’t change anything! If you want your safari experience done properly, Peter and Wildlife Safari is the way! Happy travels.
Christine Bates
South Euclid, OH February 2019
Joined Peter on the Medwish Brigade in Feb2018 and it was a great mix of service days and sightings!! We were so well taken care of by both Peter and his partner camp staff it's almost hard to put in to words. DO IT!!
Donna Kramer
South Euclid, OH February 2018
I went to Kenya with Peter in October 2018. It was a fantastic experience and I'm looking forward to someday doing it again. The animals were amazing and the camp where we stayed was incredible in every way. The best part, though, is how well Peter handles every detail and makes going on safari a very comfortable experience. Go on safari with him. It will change your life.
Jared Crooks
Ashland, OH October 2018
We traveled with Peters’s Safaris to the Masi Mari Africa fall 2017. Not only do we consider ourselves raving fans but we plan to go again! He was super helpful from day1 to far after we returned. Our safaris and accommodations were far above our expectations! Don’t miss out..
Janet and Scotty Landfried
Greenville, PA October 2018
I experienced a great adventure on one of Peter's safaris in Kenya. He is a true professional whose singular interest is the pleasure and safety of his clients. It was a wonderful experience!
Ron and Joan Fountain
Shaker Heights, OH August 2018
I loved my original safari in Kenya with Peter so much, I signed up for another in Uganda. Total memories, he is very knowledgeable and a considerate host. I've been on one other safari after Peter and truly did not compare in comprehensiveness or on any level. Traveling with Peter is like traveling with a friend who's done it before and knows all the ins and outs.
Dewey Forward
Chagrin Falls, OH February 2017 and March 2018
The trip to Masai Mari in February 2017 with Peter’s Wildlife Safari’s was an incredible experience. Peter made the trip completely stress free. The guides/drivers for the game rides that Peter works with are extremely knowledgeable and have a passion for what they do and respect the animals and their environment. The camp Peter selected was warm and comfortable with top notch 5-star service (and food!). I choose to arrive a day early in Nairobi to adjust to time change and relax after long flights and the hotel in Nairobi that Peter arranged is 5-star with a wonderful pool area to relax after flights and we also had the opportunity to spend a few hours there prior to returning home to Cleveland. I highly recommend arriving a day early. Peter set a nice pace for the safari with time to see plenty of wildlife, scenery, and also time to reflect.
The group size is small, so everyone gets a great view, easy to meet and enjoy company of your fellow safari mates, as well as meeting other travelers in the camp. Peter has such a passion and respect for Africa and his trips reflect that. In addition, Peter was so very helpful with my photography questions not only prior to the trip helping me select a camera that would fit my needs, but also answering questions and offering advice as I was delving back into the photography world after 15 years and this was my first experience with digital. Absolutely nothing beats the feeling that Africa gives you and I will defiantly travel again soon with Peter’s Wildlife Safari’s! If you have ever had a desire to go to Africa or are ready for a return visit to Africa like I was, Peter’s Wildlife Safaris is a perfect fit and I highly recommend traveling with him.
The group size is small, so everyone gets a great view, easy to meet and enjoy company of your fellow safari mates, as well as meeting other travelers in the camp. Peter has such a passion and respect for Africa and his trips reflect that. In addition, Peter was so very helpful with my photography questions not only prior to the trip helping me select a camera that would fit my needs, but also answering questions and offering advice as I was delving back into the photography world after 15 years and this was my first experience with digital. Absolutely nothing beats the feeling that Africa gives you and I will defiantly travel again soon with Peter’s Wildlife Safari’s! If you have ever had a desire to go to Africa or are ready for a return visit to Africa like I was, Peter’s Wildlife Safaris is a perfect fit and I highly recommend traveling with him.
Nina Murzyn
Willoughby, OH February 2017
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