gate 1 africa safari

11 Day Kenya & Tanzania with Serengeti: A Safari Journey

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• Travel to Lake Nakuru National Park, known for its superb birdlife Enjoy personal game drive experiences in safari vehicles that seat no more than seven Test your luck and see how many of the "Big Five" you'll spot in the magical Masai Mara National Reserve Game drives in Serengeti National Park, with Africa's highest concentration of wildlife Visit the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, a World Heritage Site, Africa's "Garden of Eden" Explore Amboseli National Park, famous for its large herds of elephants with massive tusks †Transfers are available for purchase for land only or on alternative flight dates

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Essential East Africa

Travel themes.

• Nature & Wildlife

Destinations

Attractions.

• Amboseli National Park
• Lake Nakuru National Park
• Serengeti National Park

Trip includes

• Small groups of maximum 22 travelers guaranteed Round trip flights New York-Nairobi, Nairobi-New York Other departure cities available. Click on date of departure for selection and prices Airline taxes & fuel surcharges 9 nights First Class accommodations
• 1 night Nairobi 1 night Lake Nakuru National Park 2 nights Masai Mara National Reserve 2 nights Serengeti National Park 1 night Ngorongoro Conservation Area 2 nights Amboseli National Park Hotel taxes, fees & service charges Hotel porterage All transfers included only with airfare purchase on package arrival & departure dates† 26 meals: 9 breakfasts, 9 lunches, 8 dinners Sightseeing per itinerary in modern 4x4 vehicles Services of English-speaking driver-guides throughout Active itinerary with unique cultural features National Park Fees

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Want a tailor-made trip instead, your trip, your way, planned by an expert:.

• You choose budget, destinations, activities, transport & lodging type
• Expert designs the itinerary for you, and once approved, takes care of logistics

Dates & Availability

Check Current Availability, prices, specials with Gate 1 Travel .

The total tour cost includes the tour price (regular or promotional) and the compulsory local payment. The promotional price is subject to change. Check directly with the operator for the latest price offer. The tour operator requires you to pay only the tour price to purchase your travel. The compulsory local payment will be paid when you join the trip. All prices are based on double, twin or triple share occupancy. Solo passengers will be accommodated in a double, twin or triple room according to availability with a passenger(s) of the same gender. Single supplement only needs to be paid if the passenger does not want to share and requests their own room. Discounts can only be applied at the time of booking and cannot be added at a later date, regardless of any changes made to the original booking.

Prices may vary due to local taxes and trip seasonality. Click "Request Info" to inquire directly with the tour operator for the final trip price.

Gate 1 Travel Reviews & Ratings

Other gate 1 travel reviews, gate 1 cares about money and not customer satisfaction or safety.

We have loved Gate 1 and always sing their praises. We've been on 7 tours with another one booked for fall. We were supposed to leave for Ecuador this week, however ...

THE ABSOLUTE WORST

THE ABSOLUTE WORST. Dishonest, incompetent, fraudulent. We booked a trip to Europe with them, and it was a mess from start to finish. The flight that we paid extra...

Joyce Toler

Poor customer service

It has been about 7.5 years since I traveled with Gate 1 Travel. In the past, customer service was exceptionally great! Now I am appauded with the unprofessional and...

See all Other Gate 1 Travel reviews

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Tour operator, gate 1 travel.

Gate 1 Travel offers escorted tours, European river cruises, independent vacations and customized international vacation packages for less. Our discount travel packages and tour packages to destinations worldwide provide exceptional value, saving our customers time and money. We have taken care of all the details so you don't have to. Find your dream vacation today.

Company Background & Highlights

Mission: To deliver More of the World for Less by developing quality, affordable vacations for North Americans. To provide exemplary service to our customers and to earn their loyalty. To respect our partners. To invest in our employees, providing a safe and comfortable work environment. To know and understand our products and destinations. To constantly innovate and be a leader in technology.

Founded in 1981 with 3 employees; now with over 200 employees worldwide

Headquarters: Fort Washington, PA (Suburban Philadelphia)

Overseas Offices: Hungary, China, Costa Rica, Egypt, Morocco, Argentina, Indonesia, Great Britain, Greece, India, Israel, Italy, Peru, Ecuador, Spain, Switzerland, Thailand, Cambodia & Vietnam

30+ years of providing travel services to clientèle

Product Types

Escorted Tours - Group Tours

Small Group Tours

European River Cruises

Escorted Bus Tour/Sea Cruise Combinations

Independent City Stays

Independent Fly & Drive Packages

Multi-Destination Rail Packages

Customized Vacations (Vacation Builder)

Custom Groups and Individuals

Target Consumer Market

Gate 1 Travel's target market is a traveler seeking high quality, affordable travel ranging from a superior tourist class to moderate deluxe class level of accommodations with the highest level of service.

Financial Security

Gate 1 Travel is backed by the largest, most well-respected financial institutions and insurance providers, guaranteeing the greatest level of financial security to every passenger. Gate 1 welcomes your inquiries of any of those independent offices.

Gate 1 Travel's active membership in USTOA (United States Tour Operators Association), a professional organization representing the world's leading tour operators, requires that Gate 1 meet a minimum requirement of $1 million professional liability insurance (Gate 1 maintains a $5 million policy).

Additionally , Gate 1 is required to participate in the USTOA $1 Million Travelers Assistance Program, requiring them to post $1 million in security, held by USTOA, in the unlikely event of bankruptcy or insolvency.

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Tanzania Cultural and Wildlife Experience

Tour companies, things to do, itineraries.

Founded in 1981, Gate 1 is known for its highly competitive prices. The company covers the most popular destinations in Africa with programs that provide terrific value and also deliver a wonderful experience.

Accommodations in safari lodges and hotels, transportation between cities, game drives and some meals are included in the upfront price. You’re able to relax and appreciate your surroundings as the details are handled for you.

• Save $700 per couple off tours. Prices shown reflect discount. Expires April 30. Click here .

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Category: Africa

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Nhongo Safaris ®

Arrive as strangers. leave as friends.

• Dec 8, 2023

Kruger National Park Gates: Entrance Points to an African Safari Adventure

Tucked away in the heart of Africa, the Kruger National Park is an enchanting wonderland that beckons wildlife enthusiasts from around the globe. Spanning an impressive 19,485 square kilometers, this iconic conservation area is home to the Big Five and an incredible array of plant and animal species. But before embarking on a safari adventure, visitors must first pass through the various gates that serve as entrances to this captivating wilderness.

From the bustling Phalaborwa Gate in the north to the more remote Crocodile Bridge Gate in the south, each entrance offers a unique gateway to a world of unparalleled natural beauty. Whether you prefer to explore the diverse landscapes of the northern region or witness herds of elephants grazing near the southern plains, the Kruger National Park gates provide access to an unforgettable safari experience.

As you venture through these gates, prepare to be captivated by the sights and sounds of Africa's most iconic animal kingdom. From the majestic lions to the graceful giraffes, every aspect of the park will leave you awe-inspired. Immerse yourself in the magic of the Kruger National Park and prepare for the adventure of a lifetime.

Importance of choosing the right entrance gate

When planning your African safari adventure, choosing the right entrance gate is crucial. Each gate provides access to different areas of the park, offering unique landscapes, wildlife sightings , and experiences. By selecting the most suitable gate, you can tailor your safari to your preferences and maximize your chances of encountering the animals and scenery you desire.

Kruger National Park gates overview

Crocodile bridge gate - gateway to the south.

Situated in the southernmost part of the Kruger National Park, the Crocodile Bridge Gate offers a gateway to the diverse and wildlife-rich southern region. As you enter through this gate, you'll be greeted by the lush vegetation and abundant wildlife that thrive in this area. The Crocodile River, which runs alongside the gate, attracts a variety of animals, including elephants, hippos, and crocodiles. Game drives in this region often lead to sightings of lions, leopards, and buffalo, making it a popular choice for wildlife enthusiasts.

Malelane Gate - Access to the Southern Plains

Located in the south-central part of the park, the Malelane Gate provides access to the expansive southern plains. This area is known for its wide-open grasslands, making it an excellent spot for spotting herds of grazing animals, such as zebras, wildebeests, and antelopes . The surrounding plains are also a prime hunting ground for predators, so keep your eyes peeled for lions, cheetahs, and hyenas. The Malelane Gate is a great choice for those seeking a classic safari experience in the heart of the African savannah.

Numbi Gate - Beautiful Scenery and Wildlife

For those looking for stunning scenery and diverse wildlife, the Numbi Gate in the southwest is the perfect choice. This gate offers access to the beautiful Numbi Valley, characterized by its rolling hills, rocky outcrops, and dense woodlands. The varied landscapes provide a habitat for a wide range of animals, including elephants, rhinos , and numerous bird species. The Numbi Gate also offers convenient access to popular tourist destinations, such as Pilgrim's Rest and God's Window, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a well-rounded safari experience.

Phabeni Gate - Easy Access from Hazyview

If you're staying in Hazyview or surrounding areas, the Phabeni Gate is the most convenient entrance point to the Kruger National Park. Just a short drive away, this gate provides easy access to the southern and central regions of the park. The area surrounding the Phabeni Gate is characterized by dense riverine forests and open grasslands, attracting a variety of wildlife. Keep an eye out for elephants, giraffes, and abundant birdlife as you venture through this gate.

Orpen Gate - Gateway to the Central Plains

For those seeking a safari experience in the central part of the park, the Orpen Gate is the ideal entrance point. This gate provides access to the open grasslands and acacia woodlands of the central plains, where large herds of grazers, such as zebras and wildebeests, roam freely. The Orpen Gate is also known for its excellent predator sightings, with lions and cheetahs often spotted in the area. The central region offers a more remote and peaceful safari experience, away from the busier areas of the park.

Punda Maria Gate - Remote and Untouched Wilderness

Situated in the far northern part of the Kruger National Park, the Punda Maria Gate offers access to a remote and untouched wilderness. This area is characterized by its unique and diverse ecosystems, including fever tree forests, sandstone hills, and the Luvuvhu River. The Punda Maria Gate is known for its birdlife, with over 350 species recorded in the area. Rare and elusive animals, such as the nyala and the black rhino, can also be found here. If you're seeking a tranquil and off-the-beaten-path safari experience, the Punda Maria Gate is the perfect choice.

The Crocodile Bridge Gate is located in the southernmost part of the Kruger National Park, offering visitors a gateway to the diverse and stunning landscapes of the region. As its name suggests, the gate is situated near the Crocodile River, which forms the park's southern boundary. This gate is often favored by those seeking a more remote and tranquil safari experience.

Upon entering the Crocodile Bridge Gate, visitors are immediately greeted by the raw beauty of the African bush. The area is known for its dense riverine vegetation, providing a habitat for a wide range of wildlife species. As you drive along the network of well-maintained roads, keep your eyes peeled for sightings of elephants, buffalo, and even the elusive leopard.

For those looking for a truly immersive experience, the Crocodile Bridge Rest Camp offers accommodation options ranging from campsites to self-catering huts. Wake up to the sounds of the African bush and enjoy a cup of coffee as you watch the sun rise over the horizon. With its stunning scenery and abundant wildlife, the Crocodile Bridge Gate is a must-visit for any safari enthusiast.

Situated in the southern region of the Kruger National Park, the Malelane Gate provides access to the vast open plains that are teeming with wildlife. This gate is a popular choice for visitors looking to witness the incredible spectacle of large herds of animals grazing in their natural habitat. The Malelane area is particularly known for its abundance of antelope species, including impala, kudu, and nyala.

As you enter the Malelane Gate, you will be greeted by sweeping grasslands that stretch as far as the eye can see. The open plains offer excellent opportunities for game viewing, as animals are often spotted in large numbers. Keep your binoculars handy, as you may be lucky enough to witness a pride of lions lazing in the shade or a herd of elephants making their way to a nearby watering hole.

For those looking to stay overnight, the Malelane Rest Camp provides a range of accommodation options, including chalets and safari tents. The camp is located on the banks of the Crocodile River, offering stunning views and the chance to spot wildlife from the comfort of your own porch.

Whether you choose to go on a self-drive safari or join a guided game drive, the Malelane Gate promises an unforgettable experience.

Nestled in the scenic Mpumalanga province, the Numbi Gate serves as a gateway to the breathtaking landscapes and rich biodiversity of the Kruger National Park. This gate is known for its panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and lush vegetation, making it a popular choice for nature lovers and photographers.

As you enter the Numbi Gate, you will be greeted by the sight of rolling hills covered in dense forests and grasslands. The area is home to a wide variety of bird species, making it a paradise for birdwatching enthusiasts. Be sure to keep your camera ready, as you may spot the vibrant plumage of a lilac-breasted roller or the graceful flight of an African fish eagle.

The Numbi Gate offers a range of activities for visitors to enjoy, including guided walks and night drives. Exploring the park on foot allows you to experience the sights, sounds, and smells of the African bush up close. Alternatively, a night drive offers a unique opportunity to spot nocturnal animals, such as hyenas and bushbabies. With its beautiful scenery and abundant wildlife, the Numbi Gate is a must-visit for any nature enthusiast.

Located just a short drive from the popular tourist town of Hazyview, the Phabeni Gate offers convenient access to the Kruger National Park. This gate is often favored by visitors looking for a quick and easy entrance to the park, as it is situated near a number of accommodation options and amenities.

Upon entering the Phabeni Gate, you will find yourself surrounded by the iconic landscapes that the Kruger National Park is famous for. The area is characterized by its vast savannahs, dotted with acacia trees and punctuated by rocky outcrops. It is not uncommon to spot herds of zebras grazing peacefully or a tower of giraffes browsing on the leaves of tall trees.

For those looking to stay overnight, the Skukuza Rest Camp is situated just a short distance from the Phabeni Gate. The camp offers a range of accommodation options, including cottages, bungalows, and guesthouses. Take a dip in the refreshing swimming pool or enjoy a delicious meal at the on-site restaurant. With its easy access and proximity to Hazyview, the Phabeni Gate is a convenient choice for visitors who want to make the most of their time in the park.

Located in the central region of the Kruger National Park, the Orpen Gate provides access to the vast plains that are home to a wide variety of wildlife species. This gate is often chosen by visitors looking to explore the central plains and experience the thrill of encountering animals in their natural habitat.

As you enter the Orpen Gate, you will be greeted by the sight of endless grasslands stretching as far as the eye can see. The area is known for its large herds of grazers, such as wildebeest and zebra, which attract predators such as lions and cheetahs. Keep your camera ready, as you may witness the incredible spectacle of a lioness hunting or a leopard lounging in a tree.

For those looking to stay overnight, the Orpen Rest Camp offers a range of accommodation options, including bungalows and guesthouses. The camp is known for its peaceful atmosphere and stunning views of the surrounding plains. Enjoy a braai (barbecue) under the stars or take a leisurely walk along one of the many hiking trails. With its abundant wildlife and breathtaking scenery, the Orpen Gate promises an unforgettable safari experience.

Situated in the far northern region of the Kruger National Park, the Punda Maria Gate offers access to a remote and untouched wilderness. This gate is often chosen by visitors looking to explore the more secluded areas of the park and witness the incredible diversity of plant and animal species that call this region home.

As you enter the Punda Maria Gate, you will be transported to a world of pristine beauty and tranquility. The area is characterized by its dense woodlands and unique vegetation, providing a habitat for rare and endemic species. Keep your eyes peeled for sightings of the elusive sable antelope or the brightly colored purple-crested lourie.

For those looking to stay overnight, the Punda Maria Rest Camp offers a range of accommodation options, including cottages and safari tents. The camp is known for its peaceful atmosphere and stunning views of the surrounding wilderness. Take a leisurely stroll along the Luvuvhu River or enjoy a picnic at one of the scenic spots in the area. With its remote location and untouched landscapes, the Punda Maria Gate promises a truly unforgettable safari experience.

Conclusion: Choosing the perfect gate for your African safari adventure

As you venture through the gates of the Kruger National Park, you'll be entering a world of natural wonders and thrilling wildlife encounters. Each gate offers a unique experience, allowing you to tailor your safari adventure to your preferences. Whether you choose the bustling Crocodile Bridge Gate in the south, the remote Punda Maria Gate in the north, or any of the other gates in between, the Kruger National Park promises an unforgettable journey into the heart of Africa's untamed beauty.

Embark on your African safari adventure today and let the gates of the Kruger National Park be your entrance points to a world of awe-inspiring wildlife, breathtaking scenery, and lifelong memories.

• Kruger National Park South Africa

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Never had a problem

I was very surprised to see all the negative feedback. It is true that the Tour Manager makes all the difference on these kind of tours and ours have always been exceptional. We have done Italy, Spain, and SE Asia and have loved everyone of them. We are not old and feeble so maybe that has something to do with it because Gate1 does make sure you see everything on the itinerary and you get your monies worth, which what we like. Our last tour manager was Tim for the SE Asia trip and she was amazing, in fact we are still in touch because we have become friends. From our view they keep getting better and better and we would recommend Gate1 highly. PS ask for TIM if you go to SE Asia won't be disappointed.

Date of experience : April 09, 2024

Reply from Gate 1 Travel

Thank you for taking the time to share your comments. We truly appreciate the feedback and look forward to welcoming you on your next Gate 1 trip!

Gate 1 great but their trip insurance provider is worthless

Great company with well-organized tours but the insurance company they route all Travel Insurance through—Arch Insurance—has terrible reviews and does everything to avoid paying claims. I had a trip scheduled to Mexico in March 2024–and paid for. I had to cancel my Gate 1 trip because I was hospitalized for 11 days after I flew a long airplane flight from Ireland. At the time I booked the Gate 1 trip I was well. I suffered from acute pulmonary embolisms from the long flight. Arch insurance only paid out $300 on my well documented claim. I am a retired lawyer and know how to fill out and document claims. Their denial was flagrant. Getting only $300 back made it a complete waste of time to file the claim. If 11 days with acute pulmonary embolisms preventing me from future plane trips is not justification, what is? Never ever accept Arch. Find another provider.

Date of experience : March 27, 2024

Thank you for sharing your comments. We regret that your experience did not meet your expectations. So that one of our representatives can provide additional assistance and try to make this right for you, please submit an inquiry here: https://www.gate1travel.com/contactus

The 8 day Tour of Spain was well…

The 8 day Tour of Spain was well organized, good hotel rooms and services . Our tour guide Rosemary capably led some great tours.We took a two hours in Alhambra which for me was the highlight of this tour. The only issue for me was that the return flights were far too long. Madrid,Amsterdam,JFK and then to Toronto. I will consider future tours with Gate1

Date of experience : March 25, 2024

After reading all the negative reviews…

After reading all the negative reviews I decide to not go ahead and confirm the Baltic trip I had hoped to do with Gate 1 Travel. No way do I want to get stuck someplace with no help from the tour company. Glad I decided to read reviews before clicking the "Book" button.

Date of experience : March 16, 2024

Essential Portugal and Spain

Our experience was terrific! We were greeted at the airport by the tour manager Alex and taken to the hotel. Everything was so organized with time between tours for lunch or shopping. The hotels were nice too. We felt safe and cared for at all times. The tour guides were fantastic in each city giving us plenty of history without being boring. The bus driver Marco was excellent making sure our things were secured at all time. We will definitely use this tour company again.

Date of experience : February 29, 2024

Dear Susan, Thank you for taking the time to share your comments. We truly appreciate the feedback and look forward to welcoming you on your next Gate 1 trip!

Wish I had read these reviews before…

Wish I had read these reviews before booking a trip to Turkey with Gate 1. Unfortunately Gate 1 Travel is NOT worth your hard earned money if life or work changes prevent your travel! Never buy insurance from this travel co. I was unable almost a year later to travel at the scheduled time to Turkey. Insurance will not cover this and Gate 1will not allow or honor any of my money paid to go to the rescheduling of my trip. My roundtrip tickets per Turkish Air due to a time change has emailed me that I can rebook my tickets without a change fee or additional costs! However I must go through Gate 1. Bobbie the Gate 1 Supervisor who initially refused to introduce herself, give her name until multiple requests and and absolutely refused to provide her full name or her boss’ name. Bobby stated she would ONLY ALLOW me to keep my fully paid airline tickets in MY NAME if I booked a new tour of Turkey paying FULL PRICE no credit or discount! RUN as fast as you can from this company! 3/22/24 Follow up I received a TC from Shannon Daugherty from Gate 1Travel. She informed me that my Turkish Airline tickets should and will be fully refunded. Shannon is working with me and was respectful as well as helpful. I was instructed to submit a claim to Gate 1Travel Insurance. If denied Gate 1 specifically Shannon will work with me to reschedule my trip next year without losing all my money. I will update this review once I have I have been reimbursed for my tickets and exactly what Gate 1 does regarding the tour!

Date of experience : March 19, 2024

Dear Ann, Thank you for sharing your comments. We regret that your experience did not meet your expectations. So that one of our representatives can provide additional assistance and try to make this right for you, please submit an inquiry here: https://www.gate1travel.com/contactus

Gate1 are uncaring ……After doing around 8 tours with Gate1 I…

After doing around 8 tours with Gate1 I unfortunately had to cancel over a month before we were commencing our tour due to having to have emergency surgery. I thought Gate1 might be understanding and give us a full refund or at least credit towards another trip. They would only refund half our money and yes that was in the cancellation policy but having been such a long term repeat customer who had recommended them to many, I was under the delusion they may have some understanding of my situation and refund the full amount or at least give credit towards my next trip. I am six months post surgery now and have booked this years tour with another company. Will never book with Gate1 again.

Date of experience : August 09, 2023

Rethink Using Gate 1 for Travel

I was in a vehicle accident while on safari with Gate 1 in India last month. I was in the passenger seat of a large safari truck when a faulty door unexpectedly opened on the moving vehicle causing me to fall out backwards and hit my back and my head on surrounding rocks where I was knocked unconscious. I was taken to the emergency room by our tour guide because of the injuries to my head and my back. I was given pain medication (no diagnostics were done) and luckily my friend had brought her cane with her which I was forced to use for the remainder of the trip. My headaches and severe back pain continued until I was forced to go to the emergency room again. This time they gave me a shot in the back for my pain and pain meds, but again, no diagnostics. Severe back pain and headaches continued throughout the remainder of the trip making it difficult to keep up. When I returned home, I went to the emergency room where I had a CAT Scan and was given additional medication and lidocaine patches for the pain. Upon seeing my back surgeon following the ER visit it was decided that I needed major back surgery. The fall had exasperated my existing condition. The surgery was scheduled for 7 May. Upon scheduling the surgery, I contacted Gate 1 immediately to follow up on my accident and let them know of the planned surgery. (I assumed the accident had already been reported by the trip leader.) The surgery conflicted with another Gate 1 trip I had planned for Jordan on 7 May (the date of my surgery). Per my surgeon, and my inability to walk, I requested the trip be postponed to the fall. They outright refused. I then asked to speak to a supervisor who also refused my request. Mind you, I wasn’t asking to cancel the trip, just postpone the trip! I finally received an e-mail from an individual at Reservations: Support who also refused to postpone my trip. They said I needed to pay the 50% penalty fee since I “decided” to cancel. Once again, the ONLY reason I canceled was due to an accident that happened due to a faulty door on their trip!!! I found the entire interaction with Gate 1 beyond frustrating. India was my 10th trip with Gate 1. To add insult to injury, I was also in a vehicle accident on a Gate 1 tour when I was on a Kenya and Tanzania safari in the fall of 2022. Gate 1 was “so generous” for that inconvenience and my pain and suffering that they gave me $100. No apology. The lack of concern, assistance, and understanding from Gate 1 is appalling, especially considering this was my second major accident caused by Gate 1’s negligence in a two-year period. I will certainly be rethinking my use of Gate 1 as a tour company in the future. Maybe you should too.

Date of experience : March 24, 2024

Thank you for sharing this feedback. Your comments are very important to us. We regret that your experience did not meet your expectations. We have provided your contact information to our customer service team who will reach out so that we can try to make this right for you.

Poor customer service leading to loss of ticket value

No possible to reach the travel agents on phone. Hence, communication to the Gate1 travel agents is possible via emails only. By 3pm UK time on 18 Feb, I confirmed my request to change my flight, from 19Feb at 1:45am to another day. But no response has been received, although my response was within 30-40min since the agent's reply time.. I appreciate this was on Sunday, but a clear statement on working hours and limitation from the beginning would be helpful. It seems the value of the ticket is lost which is very unpleasant. This could be easily avoided if there was an opportunity to call to agree the change and pay the diff in tariff.

Date of experience : February 18, 2024

Hello, Thank you for sharing your comments. We regret that your experience did not meet your expectations. So that one of our representatives can provide additional assistance and try to make this right for you, please submit an inquiry here: https://www.gate1travel.com/contactus

Cancel for any reason doesn't really work.

We bought the cancel for any reason policy. We cancelled because we had to travel from NC to PA for my best friend's funeral. We were supposed to travel in October of 2023. So now we get a partial credit and a very small refund. Doesn't really do us any good because now it costs almost double for the same trip and we can't afford that. So we are basically out $1800 that we paid.

Date of experience : October 15, 2023

Diane, Thank you for sharing this feedback. Your comments are very important to us. We regret that your experience did not meet your expectations. We have provided your contact information to our customer service team who will reach out so that we can try to make this right for you.

Good experience with tour company

A tour by Gate 1 Travel called Discover Northern France that was booked for March 2024 was cancelled because of a lack of enough reservations to make this tour viable. A Customer Resolution Specialist for Gate 1, Donna Young, notified me that I could get a refund, Gate 1 travel credit, or book this tour later in the year at no additional cost. I chose to book this tour later in the year. Donna did an excellent job of offering me alternative dates and I chose a date in the fall 2024. I wish to thank Gate 1 for the options offered to me and to Donna for the superb job in booking an alternative tour date.

Date of experience : January 02, 2024

Thank you for taking the time to share your comments. We truly appreciate the kind feedback and look forward to welcoming you on your next Gate 1 trip!

Very disappointed with Gate 1

Very disappointed with Gate 1. We’re scheduled to tour Egypt in November. However, due to the the conflict that’s happening now with Israel in Palastine/Gaza and the West Bank, we are justifiably concerned about our safety. Our trip is fully paid, but we had humbly requested to reschedule for a later date to travel (Not asking for a refund) just to reschedule. Unfortunately for us Gate1 outright denied our request disregarding our concerns. The Arch insurance that’s offered through Gate1 essentially only covers Gate1.

Date of experience : October 17, 2023

Travel Protection is a scam, thru Gate 1.…

Booked Christmas market trip for early Dec. Bought ‘Travel Protection’ that Gate 1 promotes. My travel partner needed a heart operation. Had to cancel trip. We’ve waited two months after providing info requested with letter from surgeon. Today they say coverage denied because she had defib prior. Of course the Protection was stated as covering pre-existing conditions!!!!!! Total rip-off. Deceptive scam artists. VERY disgusted!!!

Date of experience : December 05, 2022

Not really "making it right"

No follow up as promised. I gave a bad review of Gate 1 last week due to the bad customer service (and significant financial loss) from a recent Gate 1 trip. They immediately responded that they were sorry to hear this and would pass my information on to customer service so they could make it right. It's a week later and I have heard absolutely nothing. It's obviously just an automated response to make people think they are taking care of it, when in fact, they are blowing their customer off. Never thought I'd say this, but stay clear of Gate 1. I checked with my agent and the last communication she had was 6 days ago when the Gate 1 agent said I would get my $600 deposit back and "only" a 90% cancellation fee instead of 100%. Not really "making it right" in my mind, but I'm done. We will take our final tour with Gate 1 this Aug. (our 8th) as it is already booked. They have lost my loyalty and trust.

Date of experience : January 21, 2024

Hello, Thank you for your additional feedback. We show that a member of our customer service team has been in touch with your travel agent, Joellen. Please reach out to her for an update on this matter.

Thereza, our tour guide in Europe

Thereza, our tour guide on Gate One's trip from Mainz, Germany to Venice, Austria November 2023 was extremely accommodating. She was punctual while caring for specific needs of some 40 people for 10 days. She was very knowledgeable of the 5 countries that we toured and surprised us continually with gifts; nice hotels; meals and even music that we all sang along with as we traveled. She was fun and we'd recommend her highly for a trip with Gate One travels in your future!!!

Date of experience : November 02, 2023

I'm thankful to my sweetheart for…

I'm thankful to my sweetheart for choosing Gate1 small group discovery traveling Sri Lanka now. Our tour manager Heshan is the best in the industry, very knowledgeable practical and protective of our safety as the floods at Yala national parks we were lucky to have him arrange the safari and see all wildlife including wild elephants Leopards crocodile. He took extraordinary pleasure in arranging my birthday celebration with balloon and cake.

Date of experience : January 14, 2024

Thank you for your kind feedback. We can’t wait to see you again!

Worst customer service

Worst customer service. I had booked a trip to Greece. I called them about my plane itinerary. No answer after being on hold for hours together. I emailed them, but no response whatsoever. I will never ever book anything with these people. Stay away from 'GATE1 TRAVEL". I 100% agree with majority negative reviews on this website. Please do yourself a favor and save yourself from tremendous future headache by not using this lousy travel company.

Date of experience : July 10, 2022

Dear Yash, We are sorry to learn of the delay in responding you your phone call. We were experiencing an increase in call volume related to our most recent promotion. We do value our customers and make every effort to answer calls as quickly as possible. Please be assured we will respond to your email, you may also request a call back using the call back feature. Thank you for your understanding.

Gate 1 Travel is an amazing company

Gate 1 Travel is an amazing company. For starters, booking our trip to Ireland was easy, complete and priced reasonably. Next, our bus driver, Mark, a very kind gentleman, navigated all the twisty-turny roads like a master. And most important, our tour guide, Jill, was incredible! Her knowledge of all the towns, roads, pubs, Irish traditions, and folklore, was nonstop. Her sense of humor and the details of everything made a wonderful trip more memorable than we had expected. My only criticism is that not one of our rooms (in any of the hotels) had a view other than back parking lots, roofs of buildings, or high walls. Other than that, we highly recommend Gate 1 Travel.

Date of experience : October 22, 2023

Trip Insurance Scam

Absolutely the worst! Don't bother buying trip insurance with them. It's a scam and when you try and cancel (even if you've purchased the Cancel for Any Reason) they give you the run around. There are so many exceptions that its pointless to even try. When I called to ask questions about fees the clueless rep told me they couldn't answer my questions and I had to call Arch Insurance. I called Arch and they told me they had nothing to do with setting rates for cancellation. That was all Gate 1. I've been calling and emailing for days and no one responds. .....Buyer Beware. Find another tour company

Date of experience : October 12, 2023

9 Day Classic Japan

This 9 Day tour should actually be called 7 Day Classic Japan - Gate 1 needs to revise / review since 2 of the days you are actually in transit. Our tour guide Ichiro was phenomenal- kudos to him for his patience & handling the hiccups. Loved the country, it's people & the culture. Only disappoinmet was that Japan has so much to offer but the Gate1 itinerary focussed on way too many shrines/temples.

Date of experience : June 06, 2023

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Thanks, Elaine

I have traveled with Gate1 before and have positive experiences. I would happily use them again. I would make sure you review the optional tour costs and add in those you want to do to your cost. The base price is low but most tours are a la carte.

I just wanted to add that the tour guides on all of the tours I took were wonderful. On one trip a couple had an emergency and had to return home and the company helped make all arrangements for them.

Thanks for the info. On the one I'm looking at, probably because it is S. Africa, it's all included. There are a few meals not included and 2-3 optional excursions.

We'll take the insurance especially since we are seniors but I want to be sure it includes evacuation ins. That makes me feel better to hear you actually saw how they handled a situation needing help and that it was positive. Did you take Maleria pills every day and what kind did you take?

All of the Gate 1 tours to S Africa except the expensive one direction nt stay in the parks or wildlife reserves. For me, they are a terrible value as there are few game drives and long distances on buses.

I always get medical/evac insurance (I use GeoBlue because it's the least expensive/highest limits with a preexisting condition). In cities like Cape Town, it's like any city - just call the emergency number for an ambulance. In all of the private reserve lodges, they handle emergencies very professionally. I never worry about it. The private medical facilities are very good.

Malaria is seasonal and not present in most places in S Africa. When (and where) do you plan to visit?

I rarely recommend those tours - there are better ways to experience S Africa. And certainly staying in the safari parks or reserves for a few nights is a big highlight!!

That should say "don't stay in the parks...." Not that gobbledygook that my iPad autocorrected to!

Yes, these tours often only spend a minimum number of days in the parks which is a great shame. Safari is the highlight and to only go in for one day is a long way to come.

They often also offer interactions with elephants and lions as part of their free day excursions which is disgraceful.

If you would like to provide some detail or even a link to the tours we may be able to offer our humble opinions on each!

Obviously you only get what you pay for but maybe between us regular visitors, we can figure out why one is much more expensive

Globus.com ---14 day Small Group-- Splendors of S. Africa & Victoria Falls & Chobe National Park. Cost with air & insurance approx $10,000 a person. Gate1 Travel.com ---13 day Small Group = Zimbabwe, Botswana & S. Africa with air & ins. approx. $6200. I think we feel safer not from the animals but from getting lost & getting around with an escorted tour but want to get the best for our money. Globus is probably more reputable but they are so much more expensive. But I keep remembering what we all have been taught: There's no free lunch & You get what you pay for. I can hear my Mother in my ear. We're open to any tour company. I just happen to know these two.

We are from Australia and previously used Sunway Safaris

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