I would suggest that you speak with someone who has been there before and who can attest to the type of experience they had.

Our first safari was in 2007 in the Eastern Cape. The hunt was arranged based on a personal recommendation from a friend and local outfitter (here in Alberta). My friend described his recommendation as "an honest and hard-working outfitter...the real deal".

Coming from an outfitter that I knew, I'd have to say that his review was both serious and flattering of the recommended outfitter. I am quite happy that we relied on the recommendation.

We had an incredibly satisfying hunt with seven friends for ten days. To this day I get a big smile when I think of our safari. It was simply amazing.

Quick Post-script - two of our 2007 group booked a return engagement with our outfitter in late May of 2011. The seven-day hunt was done on day rates and trophy fees (unlike the package deal of our first safari). It was a wonderful experience and great to be back.

Do your homework and talk to the references!

(Incoming pm.)