Reviews

Excellent arrangements from day one to till we reach joberg.stay was very pleasant in four different sites from joberg to Kruger then Kruger to joberg.we sighted all big fives to our satisfaction.almost 50 to 60 lions that to two lions busy with breakfast.cheetas and leopard 4 numbers.elephants arround 2k and buffaloes. In addition I learnt so many things from our boss arun sir extraordinary knowledge in wild life really amazing.He knows nook and corner of Kruger and he knows almost all birdswith names and its biological name and its features really amazing knowledge.The hospitality what we received is really good everyday morning we use to have our breakfast fast in the middle of the jungle and when we come back he will cook excellent south Indian foods.so we felt as if we r in India .To highlight we have seen secretary bird all eagles vultures and so many African birds for every bird he gives excellent information reg it’s habitat and life style .To be honest I felt travelling with an encyclopedia.

Arun

Splendid Arrangements for My Dream Kruger Park Safari

My recent Kruger Park safari was nothing short of extraordinary, thanks to the meticulous and professional arrangements by Mr Arun Rao of dreadlion safari. From start to finish, every aspect of the trip was well-organized, ensuring an economical yet enriching experience. The planning was seamless, making it incredibly easy to enjoy the stunning wildlife without any hassle.

What truly stood out was the guide — knowledgeable, professional, and no-nonsense. Their deep understanding of the wildlife and the park’s ecosystem enriched the entire journey. They focused on giving us an authentic and educational experience, without any unnecessary distractions.

The trip was the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation. Whether it was spotting the Big Five or simply soaking in the natural beauty, every moment was memorable, thanks to the impeccable attention to detail. I couldn’t have asked for a better way to explore kruger .

Raju nair

A friend of mine had recommended Arun when I mentioned we were looking to go to Kruger back in February 2019. He had a fellow guide meet us and bring us into the park. Then we spent several days exploring all over Kruger with him. Heading out early in the morning and late in the day. Arun arranged our accommodations and was well versed in where animals were likely to be. He was a pleasant person to spend time with. We enjoyed his deep knowledge of the park and all its inhabitants.

Donald Knapp

We travelled to South Africa in April of 2016 for 10 days.

We planned our trip with Arun. He & I go back a long way, we were schoolmates. So, he was our friend, guide (& philosopher sometimes)😄

We started our tour from Johannesberg – Kruger. We flew to Cape Town, rented a car & did the Garden Route covering Simon’s Town, Cape Point, Mossel Bay, Knysna, Port Elizabeth & it turned out to be excellent!

Arun is very passionate about his work. He is an ocean of knowledge on all things related to wildlife, geography, & all related areas. It is a delight to go on safaris with him. Being a very good photographer himself, he parks at vantage points so we can get very good pics. He is at his best in the wilderness.

It helps that he is also multi-lingual. Also the fact that he has knowledge of sign language, he is able to do tours for hearing & speech impaired clients!

We highly recommend touring with Arun & his company, Dreadlion Safaris. You will not regret it. Our 5 stars to Arun!

Meena Nagarajan

I was one of the participants of the trip in April 2024 arranged by Mr. Arun Rao. All the arrangements needed for the trip was made with great detail and everyone in the group was personally taken care of by Mr. Arun Rao. With many years of his experience in South Africa, the whole trip was very enjoyable and everyone felt the same. Thank you Arun and wish you all the success in arranging future safari trips.

Balaji Keshava

Arun Rao is an excellent tour guide and a fantastic trip organizer. We had a fantastic trip to Kruger national park, Johannesburg, Capetown and the Victoria falls. Twelve of us, all senior citizens had a wonderful enjoyable time and he catered to all our needs. His knowledge of the places is excellent and he made sure that we saw all the animals in the park. It was a throughly enjoyable trip. We plan to go for more trips with him as our guide and trip organizer. Hey Arun , you are the best.

J. R. Kadambi

April 2024 was our trip to South Africa (Kruger national park, Johannesburg, Victoria falls and Cape Town) . When my cousin proposed for this trip last October, I was a bit apprehensive in the beginning as I didn’t know much about our co ordinator , Mr. Arun. But then, looking at the group of 12 , I wondered why not take a chance right ?

It turned out, if I had not gone, I would have missed a great opportunity.

Our trip was planned for 14 days and the planning was so custom built, just as Mr. Arun of dreadlion safaris promised us, we had to reach Johannesburg and that’s it until we boarded the flight back after the trip. He had done wonderful arrangements for accommodation, food, travel, sight seeing and what not . All of us (age group from 63 to 85) had the most enjoyable and memorable time of our lives.

Mr. Arun took care so that we didn’t miss even a single wild animal in the Kruger . Infact after 2 days when we all had lost hope of finding our last carnivore of lions, Arun made it a point to take us to the inner , not so covered roads and made sure we had ample sighting of the lions. That was remarkable indeed.

I can go on and on our memories of victoria falls, cape point , his culinary skills so much to pen. Overall, I highly recommend Mr.Arun’s arrangements and don’t miss an opportunity when you get a chance under his guidance.

Jayashree Nagasunder

Arun was exceptional from start to finish. He took care of every detail, arranging comfortable lodging and delicious meals throughout our trip. His extensive knowledge of the wildlife, ecosystems, and local culture brought our safari experience to life with fascinating insights and stories.

What truly set him apart was his attentiveness to my elderly parents. He went above and beyond to ensure their comfort and safety, always patient and accommodating to their needs. Whether helping them in and out of the vehicle at Kruger national park or even finding wonderful vegetarian food.for our meals. It allowed my parents to fully enjoy this adventure.

His expertise in tracking animals led us to incredible wildlife sightings, and his respect for nature was evident in every interaction. He answered our endless questions with enthusiasm and clarity, deepening our appreciation for this remarkable environment.

I wholeheartedly recommend this for an unforgettable, educational, and seamlessly organized safari experience with Arun and the Dreadlions Safari.

Sumanth Murthy USA

February 2016, Krueger, South Africa. I met this wonderful man who was interacting with my kid. He offered to take us around. By God, he knows every animal, bird , tree, folklore about the local jungles and traditions. Encyclopedia he is. Best of all, he is most friendly and knows how to take care of people he takes along. I would love send my parents with him.

Prashant Patil

We had an incredible experience on our South Africa trip, and it’s all thanks to our amazing tour guide, Arun! From the moment we arrived, Arun went above and beyond to ensure our trip was unforgettable.

His extensive knowledge of the region, combined with his passion for sharing its history, culture, and beauty, made each day a new adventure. From stunning natural wonders to vibrant cities, Arun brought everything to life with his insightful commentary and infectious enthusiasm.

His attention to detail, flexibility, and ability to cater to our group’s diverse interests and needs made the trip truly personalized and enjoyable. We felt safe, supported, and inspired throughout our journey.

We cannot recommend Arun enough! If you’re planning a trip to South Africa, look no further. His expertise, warmth, and dedication will make your experience truly unforgettable.

Thank you, Arun, for an adventure of a lifetime!

Sandhya Phanindra

Jul 2019 • Friends

Dread lion made my Kgalagadi experience the most fascinating and memorable of times. From seeing dozens of jackals to ground squirrels and meerkat, honey badgers, wildebeest, ostriches, springbok, Kudu, hyenas, Caracal and cheetahs and thanks to the awesome driving skills of Arun, seeing a magnificent male lion cross two feet from our vehicle. Throughout, the whole journey we were able to take such beautiful photographs, he had always managed to have the vehicle in best position for the perfect shot. Also having such tasty meals (which he cooked, and I must say what an amazing chef) with his wonderful joyful enjoyable funny company and star gazing and learning so much of the night sky. I feel that with Dread Lion we didn’t miss a thing, from all the small and big birds to the ground animals to the big cats. On our way out we were even more lucky to see almost a whole pride of lions. That and such a great meal cooked by him were the perfect end to the journey. Can’t wait for my return to the Kgalagadi with him as our guide. Big thanks to Arun and his exciting character and to Dread Lion Safaris. Will see you again soon.

Ella Shaul UK

Sept 2019 • Solo

As a wildlife photographer i will recommend DreadLion safari because Mr. Arun who takes us to safari himself is a great photographer and he knows where to stop and which angle will be good for us to click. I got amazing images of leopard lions cheetahs and elephants. Arun is very experienced and expert guide as well.

5 stars from me for a lifetime memories by DreadLion safaris

Chintamani INDIA

Oct 2020

Thanks to Arun@Dreadlion Safaris who persuaded us to take this once in a lifetime trip as our first outing emerging from the self imposed home arrest due the covid-19 lockdown. The transport and accommodation was comfortable . Trip paced ideally for family with two kids . The safari was eventful with good spotting thanks to Arun’s experience. Recommended.

Abhijit Mukherjee Johannesburg

My husband and I went to Africa back in 2019. We went with Arun for safari tour at Kruger. He told us some interesting stories about the animals that he has experienced. We both are deaf, so it was awesome additional bonus that Arun knew sign language. It helped us understand what was going out there through his signs. His service has exceeded my exceptions. If you are thinking about going with him, then go for it!

J. Wilson - USA

Noch nie in meinem Leben, verbrachte ich eine so friedliche, glückliche Zeit/Safari; als wie in den Kalahari. Die KALAHARI besticht einem durch seine grenzenlose Weite, unglaublich schönen Farben des Himmels und seiner speziellen Tierarten.Jede verbrachte Minute, ein Genuss.Die Unterkunft war bezaubernd schön und sauber. Alles war bestens organisiert von Herrn Arun Rao. Die Begleitung während der Safari und des Aufenthaltes war höchst professionell.Man fühlte sich bestens aufgehoben.Herr Rao verfügte über ein ungewöhnliches Wissen von Natur , Tieren und Kultur.Die Verpflegung, bestand aus frisch Zubereiteten Mahlzeiten, die liebevoll angerichtet wurden. Herr Rao ist ein hervorragender Gastgeber, er ist witzig, unterhaltsam. Das zusammen sitzen bei Tisch oder am Grill war immer sehr schön.Ein Mann der seine Arbeit , leidenschaftlich und korrekt macht.

Ich hatte in den kalahari die friedvollste Zeit meines Lebens. Herr Rao erfüllt jeden Wunsch bei Möglichkeit und geht auf die Gäste hervor ein.

Das Programm war top!

Und ich habe dort meine neue Liebe kennen gelernt:))

Das gehörte aber nicht zum Programm 😀

Tanja Nicole Scholz

Arun is passionate about wildlife and he will ensure that you enjoy as well as get involved in the process. If you want the best experience of your life in wildlife Safari and enjoy the experience the way you feel most comfortable doing it Arun is your best bet…. Don’t think twice before deciding on Dreadlion for your wildlife Safari .

Mahesh Perumana