I don't know where to start describing how amazing both the Tanda Tula camp, and the staff are.
Our ranger/tracker pair were Ginger and Isaac were excellent. They took the time to point out all the different animals, birds, etc. -- while at the same time tracking (literally!) the more difficult to find animals. In the end, we saw all of the big 5, giraffes, hippos, hyenas and wild dogs -- and had incredibly up close viewings of both a leopard and a white lion!
The food was out of this world. Three (buffet style) meals per day, but never the same thing twice. Morning wake-up-call tea service, sun downers, and full (open) bar where they happily keep the drinks flowing. Added bonus: the bartender has a fresh drink (flavored iced tea, lemonade, etc.) that he makes daily. Not alcoholic, but perfectly refreshing for the heat.
The accommodations were the perfect blend of rustic: zip up tent, deck, etc., and luxury: super comfortable queen size bed, separated bath room, outdoor (private) shower. As well, because of the "open" nature of the camp, not only did we have animal sightings looking out, but looking in! More than once were we able to see impala, nyala, and kudu inside the camp! And not as a nuisance -- just chowing down on the local vegetation and drinking from the onsite watering hole.
Our fellow guests were a good blend of ages and nationalities. There were other americans, and aussies, and europeans; there were retired couples, other honeymooning couples, and everything in between.
But so far I've probably described most of the other luxury camps as well. What really set Tanda Tula apart to me, was how much they treat their guests like family. It would be impossible for me to single out any one example (there were just too many), but I think it's mostly because *they* are family. Both our Ranger and Tracker's wives also worked at the camp, another staff member has a brother that also work their. The atmosphere of being amongst family isn't an affect, it's just reality.
I know I'm going to miss names (so apologies in advance), but THANK YOU Ginger, Isaac, Smiling, Dale, Dan, Henry, Thabo, Happiness, Pretty, Maggie, Ruth, Scotch, Foreman for just an incredible trip and experience!