My husband and I enjoyed a private safari guided by Francis of Nature Outfitters. From the minute he picked us up at the airport, every day felt like an exotic... read more adventure. Truly, I was speechless at experiencing up close so any animals and yet, I felt totally safe all of the time. Sometimes we were acutely aware of the silence, but other times, especially at night you could hear nature happening so close. Every aspect of the safari was perfect. The food was extraordinary by any standards, freshly prepared and served elegantly. Even at midday in the middle of the Serengeti, lunch boxes were delicious. Accommodations were spacious and private and fully equipped by hotel standards; flush toilets, showers, quality bedding and toiletries. People are friendly, helpful and English is spoken everywhere. Francis is a professional who customized our safari by length, cost and accommodations. He was extremely knowledgeable and had a great sense of humor. I could not imagine ever again going with any other guide.

  Our private Safari with Nature Outfitters was superb in every way. Francis Shio tailored a multi-week itinerary well suited to our budget and our desire to see seldom seen animals... read more like caracal cats and to visit areas outside tourist venues like the joint Tanzania-Kenya Rhino reserve. Francis provided unique and exciting sightings and vistas. As a wildlife artist, I appreciated how much Francis' guide skills are integral to my paintings. He positions the safari truck perfectly for the angle of light, he anticipates the movement of animals, he provides time for me to set up a shot, and waits as long as necessary. His understanding of animal/bird behavior is remarkable and encyclopedic. With my photos, I have included 3 lions, each with its corresponding painting. In short, I recommend Francis Shio of Nature Outfitters highly and entirely without hesitation. Just go, you will thank yourself for the rest of your life.

  Our 3 week June 2021 safari with Nature Outfitters, TZ far exceeded our greatest hopes. Traveling for the 4th time with our wonderful guide Francis Shio I photographed a... read more species only documented once before in the wild (see pictures), also a rarely seen nocturnal species of hyena, as well as Black Maned lion, leopard, cheetah and the harder to spot Serval cat and Caracal cat. We saw Fringe-eared Oryx, rarely seen in Tanzania, Black Rhino (at a distance this time) and so much more. Finally we witness a confrontation between a Puff Adder and a Black Mamba (do not be dissuaded, these are the first snakes I have seen in many trips). Elephants in great numbers, a myriad of birds, the Serengeti migration in two locations and much more. Nature Outfitters TZ provided a professional and personalized trip never to be forgotten.

  As former President of the African Wildlife Foundation and for many years as a VP at WWF-US I have been fortunate to travel to the continent many times but traveling... read more with Francis (on 3 safaris, each unique in its own way) will remain forever in my memory. His knowledge of and ability to locate wildlife can not be matched. He is especially skilled with photographers--sensitive the the optimal lightly and location of the vehicle. He is patient and sensitive to each clients particular interests. He began as our guide, he became a colleague and is now a close friend. I can recommend him without hesitation. I should note our safari was 18 days but that option is not included above.

  We were impressed by personable driver guide Francis Peter Paul Shio's service toward all of our group and for his sharp eye and expertise in locating and identifying different animals... read more on our tour. Indeed, we were able to see the big five: elephants, cape buffalo, lions, leopards and one rhino sighting from afar! We also enjoyed his insight and sharing of the Masai culture and traditions with us that gave depth to our safari. We highly recommend using Francis as your driver guide.