Rhulani Safaris
Rhulani Safaris
5
Full view
About
Photographic, Private and Bespoke Safaris in the Southern Africa's iconic wildlife kingdoms. Join us for an unforgettable safari experience, may it be a photo safari with professional wildlife photographer and author, Armand Grobler or just a family fun holiday to Southern Africa's best holiday regions. Our focus is on providing guests the best possible value at an affordable rate! Read up on our Reviews and see what previous travellers with Rhulani Safaris have experienced!
Hoedspruit, South Africa
Meets animal welfare guidelines
Suggest edits to improve what we show.
Improve this listingSimilar Experiences
Travellers talk about
(3 reviews)
(2 reviews)
(2 reviews)
Contribute
Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
Popular mentions
5.0
20 reviews
Excellent
19
Very good
1
Average
0
Poor
0
Terrible
0
Safari59552047689
1 contribution
Oct 2023 • Solo
Is it even possible to compliment this experience enough? It was such a wonderful experience to join Armand on a Big Cat Photographic Safari at Elephant Plains in the Sabi Sands. It would be impossible to give all the reasons for this 5 star rating in this post but some of the highlights for me are - spending time at sightings so that we could observe and photograph fascinating behaviour, 7 different leopard sightings on 8 game drives plus the most tiny little hyena cubbies at a den site (just wow!) and learning practically how to manipulate light to get the most out of my photographs. I am already planning my next safari with Rhulani Safaris !
Written 30 October 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Kimberly B
1 contribution
Jun 2023 • Friends
My Safari experience with Rhulani Safaris exceeded all expectations. As a professional photographer we were looking for something more than just driving around in a jeep, we wanted to immerse ourselves into wildlife photography. Armand made that possible, his dedication to providing and exceptional adventure, combined with knowledgeable guide, luxurious accommodations (Elephant Plains), wonderful food and great company, made it an extradinary photographic journey. It was evident that they genuinely care about the animals and preserving the beauty.
Armand's expertise ensured we had incredible sightings and created opportunities for breathtaking photographs. I wholeheartly recommend Rhulani Safaris. We can't wait to go back!
Armand's expertise ensured we had incredible sightings and created opportunities for breathtaking photographs. I wholeheartly recommend Rhulani Safaris. We can't wait to go back!
Written 22 June 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Jim F
Stockton-on-Tees, UK48 contributions
Jul 2022
Our private big cat photo tour exceeded ALL expectations! Armand Grobbler of Rhulani safaris organised a perfect itinerary based at the amazing Buffelshoek tented camp in Manyeleti.
Essentially aimed at seeing/photographing big cats, the trip gave us many encounters with these beautiful animals and so many experiences with a wide range of some of Africa's iconic species.
With expert photographic advice from Armand and superb driving from our guide Mike to provide optimum lighting,each and every game drive gave first rate opportunities to capture truly amazing images.
Arriving as clients,we definitely left as friends with lots of memories of a very special trip and many,many laughs!
I simply can't recommend Armand and Rhulani safaris too highly!
Essentially aimed at seeing/photographing big cats, the trip gave us many encounters with these beautiful animals and so many experiences with a wide range of some of Africa's iconic species.
With expert photographic advice from Armand and superb driving from our guide Mike to provide optimum lighting,each and every game drive gave first rate opportunities to capture truly amazing images.
Arriving as clients,we definitely left as friends with lots of memories of a very special trip and many,many laughs!
I simply can't recommend Armand and Rhulani safaris too highly!
Written 28 July 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Dear Jim,
Thank you very much for your detailed review on your photo safari experience with Rhulani Safaris. It was a pleasure to have you and Brian, and as you stated - we have left as friends. It was hard saying goodbye, which is always a sign that it was a successful safari.
We look forward to many more great adventures and unforgettable memories with you in the future.
Thanks again for your kind words.
Regards,
Armand Grobler - Owner of Rhulani Safaris
Written 19 August 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Allex K
Mona Vale, Australia3 contributions
Mar 2019
I visited Rhulani Safaris awhile ago and it was an unforgettable experience. Armand the guide was very knowledgable and has so much passion for his work, even driving around talking to him is good fun! I saw so many animals I'd never expected to see, Armand knew all of the best spots to visit and knew the times to go to see the big 5, but also to have the place to ourselves. He also has an uncanny ability to spot a leopard in a tree that I would've never seen.
On top of this, Armand was also very knowledgable on where to go in Johannesburg, as well as what foods to try and places to stay.
I still have incredibly fond memories of my time with Armand and strongly recommend it to anyone who has a passion for animals and wants a genuine, honest guide to show them everything the parks have to offer.
On top of this, Armand was also very knowledgable on where to go in Johannesburg, as well as what foods to try and places to stay.
I still have incredibly fond memories of my time with Armand and strongly recommend it to anyone who has a passion for animals and wants a genuine, honest guide to show them everything the parks have to offer.
Written 14 February 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi Allex,
Thank you so much for your kind review of your time with us Rhulani Safaris. It was both a pleasure and a privilege to have you with us and having such a fantastic time. I treasure our tour and look forward to your next visit with great anticipation!
Take Care, our thoughts and prayers are with you in Australia during this trialing time.
Best Regards,
Armand and the Rhulani Safaris Team!
Written 15 February 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
dennis k
Portland, OR4 contributions
Jul 2019 • Couples
My wife and I wanted a photo specific safari in South Africa that could offer a personal photo experience. As an avid photographer, I wanted a complete row in the vehicle for myself and my equipment. We also wanted an experienced photographer/guide who would site us for the best photo opportunities. We corresponded with the company’s owner Armand Grobler and Theresa Grobler who were both very responsive, even with the 9-hour time difference. We booked with the company for an 8-day adventure. We were not disappointed.
Armand quickly picked up my photography interests and how he would site us in the field. Most Kruger area safaris focus on the Big Five which are Lions, Leopards, Cheetahs, Buffalo, and Rhinos. We saw them all in the first few days and numerous times for the rest of the trip. Armand was fabulous to work with and his two quide/drivers were courteous, knowledgeable and very helpful. Armand and I spent the afternoons doing photo reviews. He critiqued my images and we chose some of the best for Lightroom edits It was his personal touch that I appreciated. Finally, I've previously been on three photo excursions including Botswana, the Galapagos and Antarctica and I would rate my experience with Rhulani Safaris and Armand number one on my list.
Armand quickly picked up my photography interests and how he would site us in the field. Most Kruger area safaris focus on the Big Five which are Lions, Leopards, Cheetahs, Buffalo, and Rhinos. We saw them all in the first few days and numerous times for the rest of the trip. Armand was fabulous to work with and his two quide/drivers were courteous, knowledgeable and very helpful. Armand and I spent the afternoons doing photo reviews. He critiqued my images and we chose some of the best for Lightroom edits It was his personal touch that I appreciated. Finally, I've previously been on three photo excursions including Botswana, the Galapagos and Antarctica and I would rate my experience with Rhulani Safaris and Armand number one on my list.
Written 20 November 2019
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Dear Dennis,
Thank you immensely for your kind review on your experience with us at Rhulani Safaris. I am thankful to hear that you rate your experience so high and can agree that we had some breathtaking sightings! Don't forget the elephants too! :D
You are both missed and I hope to have the privilege of having you with us again at some stage in the future on another crazy adventure!
Hope you are well and still enjoy looking through your wonderful images! Oh and by the way- I ended up getting my Apple Mac! Thank you for the advice!!! I absolutely love it!
All the best my friend!
Written 21 November 2019
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
sharondp2018
Sydney, Australia7 contributions
Oct 2019
We spent 5 days with Armand Grobler of Rhulani Safaris at Manyeleti and it was amazing. It's a quiet park and the camp is quite isolated so all the viewings we had to ourselves. One morning we saw the big five by 8 'o' clock. Armand looked after us so well. He made sure we had the best position at sightings for taking photos and he has a deep understanding and knowledge of the animals. We absolutely loved every minute of it and hope to return there one day for another amazing safari with Armand.It was the best holiday we have ever had.
Written 10 November 2019
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Dear Sharon,
Thank you immensely for your kind words, it is greatly appreciated. I am so happy that you and Michael both enjoyed your time here in Africa, it ended off wonderfully in the Manyeleti and the place (especially the water hole!) hasn't been the same since you left.
We (the Manyeleti and our team at Rhulani Safaris) miss you both dearly. Hope to see you in the near future.
All the Best,
Armand Grobler
Written 12 November 2019
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Seppl64
Waldkraiburg, Germany179 contributions
Sep 2019 • Couples
After my visit with my daughter in 2018, I had to bring my wife to Manyeleti this year.
Armand again took care of everything and my wife had the best trip experience ever. Rhulani Safaris had arranged airport pickup in Johannesburg, the transfer to Manyeleti, the overnight stay in Buffelshoek and Nzdhaka, the private car for the game drives as well as the closing in the wonderful private lodge in Blyde wildlife estate. What a perfect trip. We will come back again !
Armand again took care of everything and my wife had the best trip experience ever. Rhulani Safaris had arranged airport pickup in Johannesburg, the transfer to Manyeleti, the overnight stay in Buffelshoek and Nzdhaka, the private car for the game drives as well as the closing in the wonderful private lodge in Blyde wildlife estate. What a perfect trip. We will come back again !
Written 5 October 2019
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi Martin,
I often sit and think back of the trip with you and Monika. It truly was an unforgettable experience, and a story that I have already shared countless times and will do countless times in the future. Thank you for your kind review on your experience, we are so happy that your return was so successful and that you enjoyed it so much. It is always a pleasure to have you with us, as you have become part of our Rhulani family now! We sincerely look forward to your return and many more adventures in the future! And yes the Botswana Tour is being organised as I type this message, you will have to keep an eye on your emails! :D
Best Regards to you, Monika and Anja!
Armand Grobler
Written 11 October 2019
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Ulrike S
Konstanz, Germany5 contributions
Aug 2019 • Family
We had such a beautiful time in the Manyeleti Game Reserve! We had stunning sightings, which are possible only with a very experienced and hard-working guide. We were glad that we could spend a lot of time with the Big 5 and all the other beautiful animals in this reserve. The service was (again) really excellent, and we are very grateful for everything that we could experience on our safari! This was our second booking, and we will definitely return as soon as possible. If I only had some time available, I would pack my camera equipment straightaway ;-)
Written 30 September 2019
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi Ulrike!
Haha, I am ready when you are!! My camera is ready and waiting! :D
Thank you so much for your kind Review. I am so glad you enjoyed your trip - I could see the gratitude in you and your family's faces constantly. It is special to see someone enjoying their time so much. Having you with us for a second time is a great privilege, and I sincerely look forward to your return.
Warm Regards to you and your family from us at Rhulani Safaris!
Armand Grobler
Written 1 October 2019
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Amandajm2502
London, UK17 contributions
May 2019 • Friends
I arranged a trip to South Africa for myself and my parents – we travelled around a little and the Rhulani Safari was their last stop (I stayed on for a while longer). From the beginning, Theresa was incredibly friendly and helpful, and went over an above to provide advice and information for our trip to make the booking and planning process very simple. She was always incredibly fast to respond which was so helpful in co-ordinating the other parts of the trip.
As for the trip itself, I cannot speak more highly of Armand, the guides and the accommodation. His warmth, passion for what he does, and genuine excitement to share his beloved South Africa with his guests truly made this a trip of a lifetime. My parents continue to speak about it as 'the best holiday they have ever had' and of Armand as though he is a member of the family. In addition to everything else, he was also just great company and a pleasure to spend time with.
He did everything he could and more to make sure every detail was taken care of and that we had the very best experience we could. My parents are elderly and his care and attention throughout the trip to make sure they were comfortable and doing well didn't go unoticed.
We had the most incredible sightings, and even saw a large pack of painted dogs on our last day (something I really wanted to but didn't expect to see!) We were so fortunate to spend quality time with so many amazing animals every day – he and his guides expertise is second to none at getting you in the right place.
I can't thank Armand and Theresa enough for such a wonderful experience. So many incredible memories and we continue to speak of joining him again – I hope in the not too distant future.
I have done a number of trips around the world and I genuinely rate Rhulani as one of the best.
As for the trip itself, I cannot speak more highly of Armand, the guides and the accommodation. His warmth, passion for what he does, and genuine excitement to share his beloved South Africa with his guests truly made this a trip of a lifetime. My parents continue to speak about it as 'the best holiday they have ever had' and of Armand as though he is a member of the family. In addition to everything else, he was also just great company and a pleasure to spend time with.
He did everything he could and more to make sure every detail was taken care of and that we had the very best experience we could. My parents are elderly and his care and attention throughout the trip to make sure they were comfortable and doing well didn't go unoticed.
We had the most incredible sightings, and even saw a large pack of painted dogs on our last day (something I really wanted to but didn't expect to see!) We were so fortunate to spend quality time with so many amazing animals every day – he and his guides expertise is second to none at getting you in the right place.
I can't thank Armand and Theresa enough for such a wonderful experience. So many incredible memories and we continue to speak of joining him again – I hope in the not too distant future.
I have done a number of trips around the world and I genuinely rate Rhulani as one of the best.
Written 29 September 2019
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Dear Amanda,
Wow. I am genuinely taken back by your kind review of your experience with us at Rhulani Safaris. I will never forget when saying goodbye to you and your family, when dropping you off at your hotel the hug that your mother gave me, it was one of the most special and memorable moments of my life, and as you say, it was like greeting family. It was a very difficult goodbye, one that left me in many tears.
Reading through your Review takes me down memory lane to what was one of the most unforgettable trips I have had. I am so glad we found those painted dogs I knew just how desperately you wanted to see them! I think those monkeys who stole your food are also still on a high! :D Haha. It is so nice to reminisce on our experience, and not only the wonderful sightings, but also the constant laughter. It was such a privilege and a part of my journey I also will never ever forget.
Thank you for your input in our company and into our lives. Anton and I still speak regularly of our trip. You and your family have made an unforgettable impression and I also hope to see you all again soon. If not here in South Africa, maybe in Australia!
Take care my friend, and please send my warmest regards to your parents.
Armand Grobler
Written 1 October 2019
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Bill Houghton
Melbourne, Australia1 contribution
Sep 2019 • Friends
RhulaniSafaris is a relatively new company run by Armand Grobler, a young (26 YO) South African who spent his formative years growing up in Australia. He is a wild life photographer who is lucky enough to fulfill a dream of sharing his passion for African wild animals through a personalized and professional safari experience. Armand is highly enthusiastic and passionate about the African wildlife and deeply cares about protecting their future. Everything he did was aimed towards making a truly memorable experience for us. His photographic expertise made him ideally suited to understand our needs and he went out of his way to ensure we were perfectly positioned to take great photographs. This is not just a job to Armand, it’s his life.
My daughter, son-in-law and I spent an amazing 5 days at the Buffelshoek Tented Safari Camp, Manyeleti Game Reserve, Umkumbe Safari Lodge, Sabi Sands and Blyde Wildlife Estate.
I would highly recommend including the Manyeleti Game Reserve in your safari. This is a relatively new public reserve and there was an abundance of animals, including the big 5. It wasn’t crowded with other safari vehicles and we were able to get close to the animals. We were even fortunate enough to see a pack of African wild dogs and to locate their den where there were three ~ four months old pups. It was amazing to see them playing and interacting in a totally carefree manner. The Buffelshoek tented accommodation while relatively basic was more than comfortable. This is a small camp accommodating up to 10 people. The food was superb and the staff were very friendly. Umkumbe Safari Lodge was more “up market”. The food and accommodation were excellent. There was free WIFI with limited data (can purchase more) available between 7am - 4pm in the communal area. The game drives were excellent but we didn’t see as many or varied animals as at Manyeleti. However, we did get to see the big 5 including 2 spectacular leopards. On our last night with Armand we stayed in a luxury house at the Blyde Wildlife Estate. This was a real highlight - comfortable and luxurious. My only regret was that we should have stayed for two rather than just one night. We finished with the Panorama Tour (God’s Window, Bourke’s Luck Potholes and 3 Rondawels); well worth the drive as the views were breathtaking.
I will remember the memories gained and our time with Armand forever. I could not recommend Armand and RhulaniSafaris highly enough.
My daughter, son-in-law and I spent an amazing 5 days at the Buffelshoek Tented Safari Camp, Manyeleti Game Reserve, Umkumbe Safari Lodge, Sabi Sands and Blyde Wildlife Estate.
I would highly recommend including the Manyeleti Game Reserve in your safari. This is a relatively new public reserve and there was an abundance of animals, including the big 5. It wasn’t crowded with other safari vehicles and we were able to get close to the animals. We were even fortunate enough to see a pack of African wild dogs and to locate their den where there were three ~ four months old pups. It was amazing to see them playing and interacting in a totally carefree manner. The Buffelshoek tented accommodation while relatively basic was more than comfortable. This is a small camp accommodating up to 10 people. The food was superb and the staff were very friendly. Umkumbe Safari Lodge was more “up market”. The food and accommodation were excellent. There was free WIFI with limited data (can purchase more) available between 7am - 4pm in the communal area. The game drives were excellent but we didn’t see as many or varied animals as at Manyeleti. However, we did get to see the big 5 including 2 spectacular leopards. On our last night with Armand we stayed in a luxury house at the Blyde Wildlife Estate. This was a real highlight - comfortable and luxurious. My only regret was that we should have stayed for two rather than just one night. We finished with the Panorama Tour (God’s Window, Bourke’s Luck Potholes and 3 Rondawels); well worth the drive as the views were breathtaking.
I will remember the memories gained and our time with Armand forever. I could not recommend Armand and RhulaniSafaris highly enough.
Written 29 September 2019
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi Bill,
Firstly, thank you immensely for your kind feedback, it reflects a trip that I would also never forget, with my only regret being that time was not kind to us - it all went by so quickly, I wish it went a little slower. When dropping you off at your hotel it left a feeling of emptiness as I said goodbye not to my guests or clients, but to 3 very special friends I made in the process.
Reading through your Review I cannot help but re-live the moments, it was such a special journey from start to finish and what I wouldn't give to do so again. I am so thankful you enjoyed your stay with us, and I hope our paths cross again in the near future. I will cherish our memories together and re-live them when sitting around a fire enjoying the African evenings while sharing our experiences with friends and family.
Take Care my friend and please send my warmest regards to everyone back in Aus for me! Thank you for your contribution to Rhulani Safaris, it is greatly appreciated.
Best Regards,
Armand Grobler
Written 1 October 2019
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
No questions have been asked about this experience