SOUTH AFRICA: Zingela-Limpopo Safaris - How Poor Management Ruined An Otherwise Promising Safari

[Tiger2001]

There's a website, a Google review containing their behavior can do some serious rethinking a booking.
It's read worldwide too.

If you were me would you cut and paste the entire review I uploaded here? Or would you do a truncated version for Google?

 

[Tiger2001]

Just plain sad. Definitely on the "no go" list. It's a testament to using vetted outfitters, sponsors on this website and ones with multiple references. Don't know if your friend's recommendation was from a first timer's viewpoint but as discussed in previous threads, that isn't a reliable factor to base one's safari. Almost everyone has an enjoyable first one and really have no frame of reference of what's good, bad or indifferent. Agree with @Mark458. That meat was going to market.

My German friend is a VERY experienced hunter and a veteran of many African safaris. He had made 2x trips to Zingela under the former management and 1x last November under the current management. So three visits in total and he had nothing negative to say. Only after I relayed my recent negative experience did he mention missing the former manager.... And to be fair, being from Germany he did not view Chinese ownership as much as a a red line as I do, so he never mentioned that either. That fact alone would have put Zingela on the "no go" list for me but I had no idea until we were there.

 

[Hogpatrol]

If you were me would you cut and paste the entire review I uploaded here? Or would you do a truncated version for Google?

I prefer the Pros and Cons format, i.e., the good and the bad.

 

[Mark458]

If you were me would you cut and paste the entire review I uploaded here? Or would you do a truncated version for Google?

I think I would give a more condensed version. I love reading full details on this site, but honestly don't know if I would read such a lengthy review on Google.

Emphasize all the things that were bad, but also list anything that was good. An all bad review is sometimes discarded as someone with sour grapes just looking to make someone look bad because a hunt didn't go as they hoped it would.

I can tell you are very sincere and that will show through as it did here.

 

[Ontario Hunter]

Sometimes I read these negative reviews and I'm left with the impression the complainer is a whiner that nothing short of perpetual arse-kissing would have satisfied. Not in this case. Bad ammo supplied for a dangerous game hunt is more than a red flag. Yikes with a capital "Y"! And serving chicken livers for the final meal? Really? I'm far from a fussy eater but Mr D would have worn that chow if it had been put on my plate! I can understand the "rule" keeping the PH at campfire. Many of us travel to Africa alone to hunt. My PH is my first social connection there and maybe some folks don't make new friends easily. PH is there to help connect. Also, as we all know, many clients expect to be pampered (worshipped) every inch of the way. That's how they "enjoy" themselves (others' enjoyment being immaterial). I'm not a big fan of being patronized but I understand it can be a component of the hospitality business (I'm a retired park ranger). Too much hospitality is better than not enough. Better safe than sorry.

Expecting the clients to go find their host at the airport was another "WOW!" And paying for HIS meal on the road? I'm surprised he didn't ask your group to chip in for gas! I have a fairly thick skin but I'm afraid I would have sorted this guy out long before I got to camp.

So what recourse? Can't stiff the PH and camp staff of their tips because it's not their fault the manager is a prick. I would get my PH's banking info and warn him that I planned to make it look like he wasn't getting a tip at settle up. But secretly I'll transfer tip to him direct from my account via global money transfer or hand him the cash under the table. The message needs to be sent to manager without beating up the staff.

 

[Tiger2001]

Sometimes I read these negative reviews and I'm left with the impression the complainer is a whiner that nothing short of perpetual arse-kissing would have satisfied. Not in this case. Bad ammo supplied for a dangerous game hunt is more than a red flag. Yikes with a capital "Y"! And serving chicken livers for the final meal? Really? I'm far from a fussy eater but Mr D would have worn that chow if it had been put on my plate! I can understand the "rule" keeping the PH at campfire. Many of us travel to Africa alone to hunt. My PH is my first social connection there and maybe some folks don't make new friends easily. PH is there to help connect. Also, as we all know, many clients expect to be pampered (worshipped) every inch of the way. That's how they "enjoy" themselves (others' enjoyment being immaterial). I'm not a big fan of being patronized but I understand it can be a component of the hospitality business (I'm a retired park ranger). Too much hospitality is better than not enough. Better safe than sorry.

Expecting the clients to go find their host at the airport was another "WOW!" And paying for HIS meal on the road? I'm surprised he didn't ask your group to chip in for gas! I have a fairly thick skin but I'm afraid I would have sorted this guy out long before I got to camp.

So what recourse? Can't stiff the PH and camp staff of their tips because it's not their fault the manager is a prick. I would get my PH's banking info and warn him that I planned to make it look like he wasn't getting a tip at settle up. But secretly I'll transfer tip to him direct from my account via global money transfer or hand him the cash under the table. The message needs to be sent to manager without beating up the staff.

The PH's and the staff were not forgotten. Even the GM, who served as the PH for one of my friends, got a tip in the end. That was between my friend and him and he felt obliged to give him one. His business. All I can do is warn others of my experience with Zingela and others can decide if it is just sour grapes on my part...

 

[Trogon]

I may have missed it, were you and all of your friends able to take the game you were pursuing? Photos would be great to see.

 

[Tiger2001]

I may have missed it, were you and all of your friends able to take the game you were pursuing? Photos would be great to see.

No we didn't in the end. But my friend who was the first timer was able to get some on his list and left happy with what he hunted. As far as photos go, I wasn't in the photo taking mood given how the trip started off so I took far fewer than usual. Given how we were treated my enthusiasm for the trip, and willingness to give these people more of my $$$, waned considerably.

 

[trperk1]

How about the hunting? How was that?

 

[DaleGribble82]

I’d definitely shorten it and get to the point in Google otherwise readers may ignore it. Your write up was done well though and very thorough. I’m not even sure if a Google review will allow that many characters.

If you were me would you cut and paste the entire review I uploaded here? Or would you do a truncated version for Google?

 

[Zinz]

Hmmmmm…I was the other hunter in the Zingela camp. My opinion of camp life that week is definitely different.

I wasn’t expecting the place to myself but I also wasn’t told otherwise. My PH of 27 years operates a good deal with Zingela and finds it to be one of the best bow hunting operations in RSA. He knew there were good buffalo and the opportunity to hunt them up close was our desire.

I very much enjoyed the fireside chatter to catch up with what everyone else had seen and hunted and how their day went. I found the young PHs very personable and hope to see them again. I watched them tend to the hunter’s every need when glasses and plates were empty and I believe that’s why they did not leave the fire because you three were their primary concern.

I don’t remember eating pizza but the stuffed Impala loin cooked over leadwood coals was to die for; and the pan fried Impala steaks were cooked to tender perfection. Your surprise birthday cake on the first night was also very well made and presented.

It is disappointing to hear how “D” treated you. My only interaction with him was at camp, my PH took care of everything for my behalf.

From what I experienced, I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend folks to hunt Zingela. I saw a tremendous amount of game with fine trophies every day. The bowhunting hides are the highest quality for those interested. The trackers and staff were also top notch.

…my $0.02

Ed Z

 

[Hedge774]

I wish you had the email contact for the Hong Kong owners and let them know their camp manager was just called out on our forum that have hundreds of thousands of visits per year and their company is now taboo!!!!

@Rare Breed I agree. However, I'm pretty sure they take disappointing servants down to the "practice range" over there instead of the Human Resource center.

 

[Tiger2001]

Hmmmmm…I was the other hunter in the Zingela camp. My opinion of camp life that week is definitely different.

I wasn’t expecting the place to myself but I also wasn’t told otherwise. My PH of 27 years operates a good deal with Zingela and finds it to be one of the best bow hunting operations in RSA. He knew there were good buffalo and the opportunity to hunt them up close was our desire.

I very much enjoyed the fireside chatter to catch up with what everyone else had seen and hunted and how their day went. I found the young PHs very personable and hope to see them again. I watched them tend to the hunter’s every need when glasses and plates were empty and I believe that’s why they did not leave the fire because you three were their primary concern.

I don’t remember eating pizza but the stuffed Impala loin cooked over leadwood coals was to die for; and the pan fried Impala steaks were cooked to tender perfection. Your surprise birthday cake on the first night was also very well made and presented.

It is disappointing to hear how “D” treated you. My only interaction with him was at camp, my PH took care of everything for my behalf.

From what I experienced, I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend folks to hunt Zingela. I saw a tremendous amount of game with fine trophies every day. The bowhunting hides are the highest quality for those interested. The trackers and staff were also top notch.

…my $0.02

Ed Z

I'm glad your experience was different than ours and I hope the rest of your hunt went well. You had a different PH outside of Zingela and were hunting there under very different circumstances than we were. You didn't have to deal with D and his repeated nonsense.

But when I have a written agreement with Zingela to be the only hunting party in camp, I don't expect to find another group, however small, to be with me for the week. Zingela should have honored its agreement with my group--and it didn't. At the minimum they should have informed me (or better have asked) if it would be okay to mix hunting groups. They know better and yet they decided not to say anything. That's simply not right.

And nothing changes the fact that Zingela is locally operated by D but entirely owned by interests in China. That's a fact that no American should overlook no matter how perfectly they fry their impala steaks.

I'm glad you enjoyed my birthday cake. It wasn't a surprise but something that I had arranged, and paid for, so that my friends and I could enjoy a birthday dinner with me after many years apart.

 

[Sabre]

I have two simple rules that guide not only my safaris but much of my life. First, I do not do business with people who are willing to cut corners when it comes to the safety, comfort, and well-being of myself, my family, and my friends. Second, I do not knowingly spend my hard-earned money with businesses that have ties to Communist China.

Unfortunately, by booking a hunt with Zingela-Limpopo Safaris, I ended up violating both of these principles.

Being owned by Chinese investors is something that would make a place unappealing to me as well. Booking other clients to be in camp if you had an exclusive deal worked out verbal or written is unacceptable.

Some of the things you mentioned are fairly standard practice or generally not a big deal. This doesn't negate the things above that make it a deal breaker. But just want to offer my opinion/experience for the benefit of your future google review, or when you lodge complaints about it elsewhere to make them more succinct and effective.

The not meeting you with a sign is less nice than meeting someone just outside baggage or at baggage with a sign, but it's not incredibly uncommon to meet a guide or PH at a central location. It's also not unheard of for even good outfitters to not be standing with signage.

I don't know if meals outside of the lodge would be included in your booked hunt. But me personally, I wouldn't necessarily expect a PH to pick up the tab for 4 meals on the way to camp when I requested to stop. Most of them will do it. I think it sets a nice tone for the hunt if they do. I think it is classy of them to do it for a client that has spent money to book a hunt. But, I wouldn't expect them to have to do it, because it likely falls outside the parameters of the booked hunt.

The guides/PHs hanging around until their hunter leaves the fire is done at other places as well. Some have more loose rules about it, some very stringent. I do also find it a bit uncomfortable. And some places have a rule where the owner/outfitter expects the guide/PH to always get your drinks for you. Sort of act as your personal bar tender. That also makes me uncomfortable, and I have told guides and PHs that they don't need to do that and if the outfitter brings it up to let them know I requested they not do it. I am a grown man, and having another grown man feel like he has to race me to the bar to grab me a beer or soda before I get there feels more uncomfortable than relaxing to me. I'd rather it feel like a hunting buddy atmosphere than a servant situation.

However, if you have ever been in a situation where the owner/outfitter didn't have good rules for their guides/PHs in regards to how to act in a service industry. You would also understand why some places put such an emphasis on it. Because I've also had hunts (luckily incredibly few) where the guide/PH was more interested in what was going on at home, or at the bar, or with their buddies, than fulfilling their obligations. So the other side of the coin is worth considering. I would rather have to tell a guide/PH to let me get my own drinks or don't stay at the fire on my account, than to wonder where my guide/PH is all the time.

I liked hearing your long format and I can appreciate that when many things go wrong it makes us more nit picky about even small things we don't like. When it comes to a google review, I would stick to the bigger things. Sorry you didn't enjoy your hunt. We invest a lot of money into hunts, and when they don't go well it eats at us in a multitude of ways.

 

[Miletic]

I have two simple rules that guide not only my safaris but much of my life. First, I do not do business with people who are willing to cut corners when it comes to the safety, comfort, and well-being of myself, my family, and my friends. Second, I do not knowingly spend my hard-earned money with businesses that have ties to Communist China.

Unfortunately, by booking a hunt with Zingela-Limpopo Safaris, I ended up violating both of these principles.

Before describing what happened, I want to recognize the camp staff. The cooks, cleaners, trackers, skinners, the interns, and the Professional Hunters were hardworking, friendly people who consistently did their best throughout our stay. They were not the problem. My concerns center on the local General Manager (a man I will call "D"), whose attitude toward paying guests was, in my experience, the opposite of what one would expect from a professional safari operation.

When I arrived at O.R. Tambo International Airport after my overnight flight from Frankfurt, I received a text from D that simply read, "I am at Yolo Coffee." After searching for the coffee shop, I found an unshaven, unkempt middle-aged man leaning against a wall with his hands in his pockets. There was no Zingela welcome sign, no attempt to find me, and no greeting. I introduced myself, but instead of the usual pleasantries he immediately wanted to get on the road. An absent welcome sign may seem a trivial detail, but it signals a lot to visiting clients--especially after many hours of international travel. And in this case it was an omen for our week at Zingela.

About an hour into the five-and-a-half-hour drive to camp in the cramped pick-up truck, I asked if we could stop for food and a restroom break after the overnight flight. D resisted, saying he wanted to get back to camp as quickly as possible. I wasn't sure what the rush was as this was our trip not his. But only after I asked again—and my friends chimed in—did D reluctantly agreed to stop at a Wimpy restaurant. After all of us--to include D--finished our modest meals, the bill arrived. D looked at the three of us and asked who was paying. Considering we had already paid substantial daily rates and buffalo packages, I found this surprising. D eventually paid with what appeared to be a company credit card, but his reluctance created an awkward atmosphere that further set the tone for the week and reinforced my already negative first impression of him from our airport "greeting".

This hunt had been over a year in the planning. Two close friends traveled from the United States to celebrate my birthday and I flew in from Germany. It was the first time in years the three of us had been together and for one friend it was his very first trip to Africa. It was important to me as the organizer that the trip went well for all concerned. So during the planning process with Zingela management I specifically confirmed, in writing, that the three of us would have exclusive use of their tented camp. Zingela assured me it was their "policy" never to mix hunting groups.

Imagine my surprise when we arrived and found another American hunter and his own South African PH already in camp. When I later reminded management of their written assurance about not ever mixing groups, their response was simply, "Sorry, we thought you wouldn't mind."

It soon became clear that D was not merely our driver—he was Zingela's General Manager. I also learned that the 40,000+-acre property is owned by a wealthy, Hong Kong-based family and managed through a trust and Board of Directors outside of South Africa. D was their front man on the ground and he had replaced the previous General Manager who apparently departed under hasty circumstances.

The Hong Kong owners reportedly have no interest in hunting. However, they seem to want the profits from hunting and the operation appeared to be managed with that overriding objective: maximizing revenue. Looking back, adding another hunting party, despite promising us exclusive use of camp, seemed entirely consistent with that approach. It was clear that as long as D ensures the $$$ to his bosses in China, he keeps his fancy title and continues to live in the General Manager's house on the property.

Other aspects of the operation reinforced this impression. Meals consisted almost entirely of frozen impala meat in different forms, sausages, and grilled chicken breasts with lots and lots of fillers for sides; pasta, potatoes, and bread (lots of bread). Despite members of our group harvesting game during the week, none of these animals were ever served to us. Even the "pizza" we were served had no resemblance to actual pizza or to the photos of pizza night that we had been shown as representative of the camp cuisine. The culinary realty was very different than what was advertised and the quality of food noticeably declined as the week progressed. We were served chicken livers and fried impala (again) as our final dinner. This wasn't necessarily the fault of the camp Chef, but of D who gave the provisions to the Chef and who set the weekly menu. Zingela's camp vehicles were dirty, poorly maintained, and lacked even basic conveniences such as rifle racks. One truck even had a window that no longer functioned. However D's personal company vehicle (not to be confused with the vehicle he used for the airport transfers) was equipped with all the bells and whistles.

During one of my friend's Cape buffalo hunts, the PH backing him up experienced a malfunction when a cartridge came apart after jamming in the action of his rifle. We were later told the ammunition consisted of handloads purchased through a friend rather than factory ammunition. Factory ammunition was never issued. Whether or not handloads are appropriate for dangerous game is a decision every hunter must make. Personally, I believe factory ammunition should be standard equipment for any Cape buffalo hunt--especially when being charged $220 a box. The rental rifles were no better; one being an old Brno .375 equipped with a cheap Tasco scope and the other a .375 of unknown make with an equally unknown make optic.

D's attitude toward guests also left much to be desired. Most questions were answered with mumbled responses before D returned his attention to his smartphone. On one occasion, D actually confided to one of my friends a pointed criticism of the other American client's shooting ability (and apparent poor judgement) after that hunter had wounded a buffalo with his .577 double. As my friend remarked to us afterward, if D was willing to criticize another client behind his back, what was he saying about us?

Another oddity involved evenings around the campfire. Most would agree that this is one of the highlights of the safari experience. After the first couple of awkward evenings we eventually learned that D required the PHs to remain with guests for as long as guests stayed at the fire pit. While some hunters may appreciate that arrangement, our group had traveled halfway around the world largely to spend time together after years apart. Once we understood this very odd policy, we simply retired to our tents each evening so we could catch up and have some drinks amongst ourselves. I'm past the age that I need a social chaperone and I certainly do not want a PH to be required to socialize with me.

Taken individually, many of these issues might have been overlooked. Viewed collectively, however, they painted a consistent picture of an operation that, in my opinion, prioritized revenue over hospitality, communication, and, at least once, safety.

I recognize that others have had positive experiences at Zingela, to include a German friend who enthusiastically recommended Zingela to me. I can only report what occurred during our hunt with them. D is not suited for the position he finds himself in as the General Manager and definitely should not be in a customer facing role of any kind. As the General Manager he set the tone from the moment we arrived and it was not a pleasant nor welcoming one. For the duration of our visit the staff, to include the PH's, deferred to D on every decision no matter how trivial and as a result no one ever seemed at ease (or happy) and this had a direct impact on us as the guests.

This is not what I expected from a professional safari outfitter, and it is not an experience I can recommend to others. Prospective clients should also understand the ownership structure before deciding where to spend their money. Zingela is owned by interests based in Hong Kong, and a portion of the revenue generated by the operation definitely does NOT remain in South Africa but instead ultimately flows to the actual owners in China. Knowing this before hand would have changed my decision to come here. I would also caution anyone to double check and even triple confirm--in writing--anything that is agreed to with Zingela-Limpopo Safaris management before sending them your deposit.

I'm sorry you wasted your time like that. Much depends on the main organizer, after all, as in any business. The main thing is that from the first moment the client feels that he is in the right place

 

[Miletic]

At the same time, I do not think that the outfitter should die to please the client. It is best when a quality relationship is established on both sides

 

[ZLS]

The General Manager met your two companions at the coffee shop, as arranged with the group, so they could wait comfortably for your arrival.

When you arrived, your companions came over to greet you, leaving their luggage behind. The GM remained with the bags to ensure they were not left unattended and to help prevent any risk of theft. The airport's public announcement system regularly reminds passengers that unattended baggage is at risk of being stolen, so this was simply a precaution.

In our experience, most guests prefer to depart for the reserve as soon as possible after arriving, allowing them to settle in, enjoy a freshly prepared lunch at camp, and prepare for their first afternoon hunt.

Regarding the transfer vehicle, the double-cab Toyota Land Cruiser used for your collection is our standard safari transfer vehicle. An upgraded shuttle service offering additional comfort was available at an additional cost; however, this option was declined prior to your arrival.

There is no policy at Zingela preventing multiple groups from sharing the camp. With approximately 27,000 hectares (66,000 acres) of hunting area, we comfortably accommodate several hunting parties simultaneously while ensuring each group enjoys an exceptional safari experience. Over the years, many guests who arrived as strangers have left as lifelong friends, united by the unforgettable experiences and memories they created together.

That said, we did ensure that your requested sleeping arrangements were fully accommodated. Your party requested that each guest have a private room, and this request was honoured throughout your stay.

Zingela was founded on a vision that extends far beyond hunting. Our founder established a diverse group of companies, nature reserves, and conservation initiatives dedicated to protecting South Africa's wildlife. These efforts include ongoing cheetah and leopard monitoring programs, rhino conservation projects, and annual contributions to local education and community development initiatives.

Among these initiatives was the construction and ongoing sponsorship of a local school, together with the installation of a water supply system that continues to provide fresh water to both the school and the surrounding community. Today, the Board of Directors continues to oversee these projects, ensuring that our founder's legacy of conservation, education, and community upliftment remains at the heart of everything we do. Our purpose has always been to create lasting value for wildlife, local communities, and future generations—not simply to generate profit.

Regarding our previous General Manager, his departure was a planned and positive transition. After playing a significant role in developing Zingela into the destination it is today, he chose to pursue new opportunities. His departure was neither sudden nor unexpected.

Our menus are carefully planned to provide a varied and enjoyable dining experience throughout each safari. Guests are served a selection of venison dishes alongside beef, pork, and chicken, complemented by fresh vegetables, salads, and homemade breads prepared daily. Whenever possible, we take pride in serving meat harvested during a guest's own hunt. Naturally, this is not possible on the first evening before a guest has had the opportunity to harvest an animal.

We prepare our meals from scratch using homemade recipes rather than relying on frozen, pre-packaged products. While individual dishes may vary slightly from season to season, this reflects our commitment to authentic, home-style cuisine. Had any concerns or preferences regarding meals or side dishes been raised during your stay, our team would have been more than happy to accommodate them wherever possible.

Your birthday cake you received was not charged to your account. It was a complimentary gesture arranged by our booking administrator, who simply asked whether you preferred chocolate or vanilla.

Your final dinner with us featured our signature Stuffed Venison Fillet, a dish that has become a longstanding Zingela tradition and is consistently enjoyed by our hunting guests as a memorable farewell meal.

One of the traditions we value most at Zingela is gathering around the campfire at the end of each day. Whether following a successful hunt or simply a day spent enjoying the African bush, these evenings provide an opportunity to relax, share stories, reflect on the day's experiences, and celebrate both the challenges and achievements of the safari. For many of our guests, these moments around the fire become some of the most cherished memories of their time with us and remain a defining part of the authentic safari experience we strive to provide.

Over the years that Zingela has operated as a hunting outfit, we have had the privilege of hosting phenomenal clients from all over the world. Some guests have loved every aspect of their experience, while others have provided valuable suggestions that have helped us improve and grow.

We truly value all feedback — whether it is praise, constructive criticism, or a complaint. The good and the bad both help us become better. Thank you for taking the time to share your thoughts with our team; your feedback is greatly appreciated and plays an important role in helping us continue to try provide exceptional experiences.

 

[Hogpatrol]

The General Manager met your two companions at the coffee shop, as arranged with the group, so they could wait comfortably for your arrival.

When you arrived, your companions came over to greet you, leaving their luggage behind. The GM remained with the bags to ensure they were not left unattended and to help prevent any risk of theft. The airport's public announcement system regularly reminds passengers that unattended baggage is at risk of being stolen, so this was simply a precaution.

In our experience, most guests prefer to depart for the reserve as soon as possible after arriving, allowing them to settle in, enjoy a freshly prepared lunch at camp, and prepare for their first afternoon hunt.

Regarding the transfer vehicle, the double-cab Toyota Land Cruiser used for your collection is our standard safari transfer vehicle. An upgraded shuttle service offering additional comfort was available at an additional cost; however, this option was declined prior to your arrival.

There is no policy at Zingela preventing multiple groups from sharing the camp. With approximately 27,000 hectares (66,000 acres) of hunting area, we comfortably accommodate several hunting parties simultaneously while ensuring each group enjoys an exceptional safari experience. Over the years, many guests who arrived as strangers have left as lifelong friends, united by the unforgettable experiences and memories they created together.

That said, we did ensure that your requested sleeping arrangements were fully accommodated. Your party requested that each guest have a private room, and this request was honoured throughout your stay.

Zingela was founded on a vision that extends far beyond hunting. Our founder established a diverse group of companies, nature reserves, and conservation initiatives dedicated to protecting South Africa's wildlife. These efforts include ongoing cheetah and leopard monitoring programs, rhino conservation projects, and annual contributions to local education and community development initiatives.

Among these initiatives was the construction and ongoing sponsorship of a local school, together with the installation of a water supply system that continues to provide fresh water to both the school and the surrounding community. Today, the Board of Directors continues to oversee these projects, ensuring that our founder's legacy of conservation, education, and community upliftment remains at the heart of everything we do. Our purpose has always been to create lasting value for wildlife, local communities, and future generations—not simply to generate profit.

Regarding our previous General Manager, his departure was a planned and positive transition. After playing a significant role in developing Zingela into the destination it is today, he chose to pursue new opportunities. His departure was neither sudden nor unexpected.

Our menus are carefully planned to provide a varied and enjoyable dining experience throughout each safari. Guests are served a selection of venison dishes alongside beef, pork, and chicken, complemented by fresh vegetables, salads, and homemade breads prepared daily. Whenever possible, we take pride in serving meat harvested during a guest's own hunt. Naturally, this is not possible on the first evening before a guest has had the opportunity to harvest an animal.

We prepare our meals from scratch using homemade recipes rather than relying on frozen, pre-packaged products. While individual dishes may vary slightly from season to season, this reflects our commitment to authentic, home-style cuisine. Had any concerns or preferences regarding meals or side dishes been raised during your stay, our team would have been more than happy to accommodate them wherever possible.

Your birthday cake you received was not charged to your account. It was a complimentary gesture arranged by our booking administrator, who simply asked whether you preferred chocolate or vanilla.

Your final dinner with us featured our signature Stuffed Venison Fillet, a dish that has become a longstanding Zingela tradition and is consistently enjoyed by our hunting guests as a memorable farewell meal.

One of the traditions we value most at Zingela is gathering around the campfire at the end of each day. Whether following a successful hunt or simply a day spent enjoying the African bush, these evenings provide an opportunity to relax, share stories, reflect on the day's experiences, and celebrate both the challenges and achievements of the safari. For many of our guests, these moments around the fire become some of the most cherished memories of their time with us and remain a defining part of the authentic safari experience we strive to provide.

Over the years that Zingela has operated as a hunting outfit, we have had the privilege of hosting phenomenal clients from all over the world. Some guests have loved every aspect of their experience, while others have provided valuable suggestions that have helped us improve and grow.

We truly value all feedback — whether it is praise, constructive criticism, or a complaint. The good and the bad both help us become better. Thank you for taking the time to share your thoughts with our team; your feedback is greatly appreciated and plays an important role in helping us continue to try provide exceptional experiences.

What's the scoop with "D". According to the OP, he was the main issue.

 

[Muntjacer23]

we take pride in serving meat harvested during a guest's own hunt. Naturally, this is not possible on the first evening before a guest has had the opportunity to harvest an animal.

You don’t seem to address why the client didn’t get to eat any of his animals during any part of his trip….. as this statement directly contradicts where the client says he was told all animals had to hang for 5 days before being eaten and therefore couldn’t be consumed by him?

The client says “Despite members of our group harvesting game during the week, none of these animals were ever served to us”.
If this is true it is extremely poor!
Can you confirm if this statement made by the client is correct?

There is no policy at Zingela preventing multiple groups from sharing the camp.

Why was the client promised in writing that he’d have sole use of the camp if your policy directly contradicts this? Is this a miss communication? As the client says “I specifically confirmed, in writing, that the three of us would have exclusive use of their tented camp”.

I think it is worth directly addressing these points. As your statement glosses over these and as things currently stand reflect very poorly on your business.

 

[DieJager]

You don’t seem to address why the client didn’t get to eat any of his animals during any part of his trip….. as this statement directly contradicts where the client says he was told all animals had to hang for 5 days before being eaten and therefore couldn’t be consumed by him?

The client says “Despite members of our group harvesting game during the week, none of these animals were ever served to us”.
If this is true it is extremely poor!
Can you confirm if this statement made by the client is correct?


Why was the client promised in writing that he’d have sole use of the camp if your policy directly contradicts this? Is this a miss communication? As the client says “I specifically confirmed, in writing, that the three of us would have exclusive use of their tented camp”.

I think it is worth directly addressing these points. As your statement glosses over these and as things currently stand reflect very poorly on your business.

Yeah it is a weak, corporate, non response.