About Us

Meet Us in Tanzania.

About Gardenia African Safaris

Your Trusted Safari Experts in Tanzania

Gardenia African Safaris Ltd is a proudly Tanzanian-owned and operated tour company, founded in 2020 by Matey Eliphas, a passionate safari expert with deep local roots and a lifelong connection to the land, wildlife, and people of Tanzania. Born and raised in this diverse and breathtaking country, Matey has dedicated his life to sharing the magic of Tanzania with travelers from around the world. His intimate knowledge of the terrain—from the hidden gems of the Serengeti to the cultural richness of local communities—forms the heart of every Gardenia adventure.

Our Vision

To be the most trusted, sustainable, and guest-focused safari company in East Africa—delivering authentic experiences that go beyond tourism to foster connection, conservation, and cultural respect.

What Makes Gardenia Unique

We are more than just a safari provider—we are experience curators, memory-makers, and storytellers. At Gardenia African Safaris, every journey is tailor-made with three core elements at its foundation

1. People: We work with a close-knit team of passionate local guides, naturalists, chefs, drivers, and hospitality professionals—each bringing knowledge, warmth, and genuine care to every trip.

2. Places: Our hand-selected lodges, tented camps, and boutique stays reflect the soul of Tanzania, offering comfort, character, and stunning settings.

3. Personalization: From the first conversation to the final farewell, your safari is crafted around your dreams, preferences, and travel goals.

Our Destinations & Services

We offer a comprehensive range of safari and travel services, all with a strong focus on quality, authenticity, and customer safety:

Custom Safari Itineraries across Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Tarangire, Lake Manyara, Ruaha, Mikumi, and Selous

Great Migration Safari Specialists (Northern Serengeti/Kogatende)

Mount Kilimanjaro and Mount Meru Climbs (Machame, Marangu, Lemosho, and more)

Zanzibar Beach Holidays – relax in paradise after your safari adventure

Cultural Tours, local experiences, orphanage visits, Maasai village tours

Photography Safaris, honeymoon packages, family safaris, and student group tours

Airport Transfers and Hotel Booking Assistance

Our team

Meet the team behind the scenes

Why Choose Us

Your Journey, Our Passion

At Gardenia African Safaris, we believe your adventure should be more than just a trip—it should be a life-changing experience. Here’s why travelers from all over the world choose us as their trusted safari partner in Tanzania:

Expert Local Guides

Our professional guides are not just drivers—they are guardians of your experience. Passionate, highly trained, and deeply knowledgeable about Tanzania’s landscapes, wildlife, and cultures, they turn every moment into a story worth telling. Their attention to safety, insight into animal behavior, and gift for storytelling make your journey both enriching and unforgettable.

Tailor-Made Travel Experiences

We understand that no two travelers are the same. That’s why we offer fully personalized journeys—crafted around your interests, travel dates, comfort level, and pace. Whether you’re climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, exploring the Serengeti, marveling at the Great Migration, or relaxing on the beaches of Zanzibar, every detail is designed to suit your vision of the perfect trip.

Unique & Bespoke Safari Packages

We don’t do “one-size-fits-all.” Our safari deals are 100% customized, giving you access to off-the-beaten-path gems, private camps, and cultural interactions that most travelers miss. From romantic getaways and family adventures to wildlife photography and solo escapes, we bring your safari dreams to life—in your style, on your schedule.

Our Safari Vehicles

Welcome to Gardenia African Safaris Ltd’s elite fleet — where comfort, safety, and adventure meet on every journey. Whether you’re embarking on a thrilling game drive, transferring from the airport, or exploring vibrant towns, our vehicles are designed to deliver smooth, scenic, and unforgettable experiences across Tanzania. Each vehicle is maintained to the highest standards and operated by experienced, professional drivers who prioritize your comfort and safety.

Spacious interiors with ample legroom Modern amenities for a comfortable journey Smooth, quiet performance Courteous, professional drivers

Gardenia Safari Jeep – Built for the Wild

The Gardenia Safari Jeep is purpose-built to deliver the ultimate safari experience. Perfect for exploring Tanzania’s breathtaking landscapes and rich wildlife, this 4×4 vehicle is equipped with: Spacious, comfortable seating Pop-up roof for unobstructed game viewing Large windows offering panoramic views Reinforced suspension for rugged terrain On-board fridge and charging ports (on request)