Catherine Thiongo

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Catherine Thiongo

Africa Safari Expert

Planning an African safari often raises numerous questions: When is the optimal time to go? Which country offers the best experience? Which operators are trustworthy? How do you choose the right camps and find knowledgeable wildlife guides? With over 15 years of experience, I have designed and tailored itineraries for hundreds of clients, addressing these very concerns. 

Born and raised in Kenya, I am passionate about sharing the Africa I know and love. Currently, I am part of the Go2Africa team and thoroughly enjoying the opportunity to help clients plan their dream safaris. 

Soulful Safari Reflection

I have so many incredible memories but there is one that I will never forget; one of my most unforgettable experiences occurred in 2022 when I accompanied a group of 60 clients on a journey through Tanzania and Zanzibar. At each destination, they engaged deeply with local communities, listening to their stories and immersing themselves in the culture. These interactions often moved them to tears, reflecting their profound emotional connection and appreciation for the people and places they encountered. Their genuine love for Africa was evident and, since that trip, many have returned twice a year to reconnect with the friends they made and to support local initiatives.

Most Memorable Experience Organised For A Client

One of the most memorable experiences I had the privilege of organising was for a family celebrating a significant milestone. They embarked on a nine-day safari in Kenya, meticulously planned to offer a blend of adventure, luxury, and cultural immersion. The journey included stays at esteemed safari camps such as Kichwa Tembo, Sanctuary Tambarare, Giraffe Manor and Sasaab Lodge, each offering unique wildlife encounters and luxurious accommodations.

Throughout their safari, the family engaged in various activities, including game drives, animal tracking, and sundowners, all of which fostered bonding and created lasting memories. The seamless coordination of these experiences, coupled with personalised touches, ensured that the family had an unforgettable adventure that exceeded their expectations. 

My Best African Travel Advice

My best advice would always be to book early and travel as light as possible.

Connect With Me

Tours & Safaris

Catherine Thiongo's top picks
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Family Madikwe & Mauritius

From $13,540 to $15,940 pps
10 days
Aerial view of the family-friendly LUX* Belle Mare Resort in Mauritius. Perfect for families or groups of friends. Swimming pool at Jaci's. Alfresco dining at Jaci's Safari Lodge. The lounge at Jaci's. LUX* Belle Mare as access to a spectacular white-sand beach and miles of natural forest. Spend a day beside the very large swimming pool which looks out over the lagoon. Experience the beauty of the island during a horse-back ride on the beach.
Highlights

Game drives in malaria-free Madikwe. Children's safari activities.

Destinations visited
Madikwe Mauritius South Africa

Best Value Kenya & Seychelles

From $5,600 to $8,200 pps
9 days
This safari is a Hidden Gem
Stay at Nairobi Tented Camp in Nairobi National Park. Family-friendly safari,
Highlights

Safari and beach—the perfect combination. Experience Kenya's iconic Masai Mara.

Destinations visited
Kenya Masai Mara Nairobi Praslin Island Seychelles
10 days
This Positive Impact Safari includes a donation to a Community initiative
Wilderness Migration game drive. Game viewing in Tarangire | Rivertrees Country Inn Rivertree Country Inn interior. Kitela Lodge terrace with spectacular views of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. The Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Sundowners with a view. Sundowners with the Masaai warriors. Ubuntu Migration Camp, Serengeti National Park, Tanzania | Go2Africa
Highlights

Big 5 game sightings and seasonal Wildebeest Migration viewing. Morning and afternoon game drives against Tanzania's dramatic scenery.

Destinations visited
Arusha Ngorongoro Crater Serengeti Tanzania Zanzibar

Accommodation

Catherine Thiongo's top picks
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The Giraffe Manor

From $1,285 to $1,415 pps
Nairobi, Kenya
The perfect kiss. Wildlife roaming the grounds. Karen Blixen bedroom suite balcony. Karen Blixen bedroom suite. View from Karen Blixen bedroom suite. Lynn bathroom. Lynn bedroom.
Activities Travellers Enjoyed
Animal interactive experience Day tours High tea on offer

Angama Mara

From $1,775 to $2,750 pps
Masai Mara, Kenya
Anagram Mara is set 1000ft in the air, overlooking the Masai Mara, the location alone is absolutely breathtaking | Angama Mara Sit on your private verandah and watch a sensational African sunset. Views from your bedroom. Bedroom suite at Angama Mara. Private dinners may be arranged in your room or outdoors. Endless views of the Mara from your bedroom. En suite bathroom at Angama Mara.
Activities Travellers Enjoyed
4x4 Drives Bird watching Game drives Guided walking safaris Guided walks

Virunga Lodge

From $1,110 to $2,205 pps
Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda
23-virunga-lodge-terrace-gvw-dsc_1942 Virunga Lodge lake view 25-virunga-lodge-virunga-mountains-sinamatella-rwanda-virunga-20180914-648 Amazing views across the lake | Virunga Lodge 27-virunga-lodge-barah1i4559 1-virunga-lodge-aerila-viewsinamatella-rwanda-virunga-20180915-1054 Cosy lounge at Virunga Lodge
Activities Travellers Enjoyed
Animal tracking experience Bird watching Cultural visits Gorilla tracking Guided walks