Safari Adventure Expert

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Vicky Malakoff, Travel Agent in Bend, OR

Vicky Malakoff

Bend, OR Travel Agent
Super Agent

Vicky Malakoff

Bend, OR · 9 Years of Experience

Destination: Uncharted, an independent agent with Travel Leaders Wheeling, IL
5.0
(85)
100% Recommended
As an avid self planned traveller all my life, you would think I would have done this "northern lights thing" by myself. But the minute my... Read More >
About
Reviews
My Places

Areas of expertise

Destinations:

Kenya, Namibia, Rwanda, South Africa, Tanzania

Interests:

Adventure, Animals & Wildlife, Bucket List, Safari, Luxury

Suppliers:

Abercrombie & Kent, Micato Safaris

About Me

Cheetah in the Maasai Mara
Cheetah in the Maasai Mara

An African safari is the ultimate adventure, offering a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness the majesty of wildlife in their natural habitat, explore diverse landscapes, and immerse yourself in the rich cultural tapestry of the continent. From the vast savannahs of the Serengeti to the lush wetlands of the Okavango Delta, each safari experience promises its own unique allure. 

But when is a good time to visit Tanzania? What if you want to combine a safari with some rest and relaxation on a beach, or some city life? Where do you go to see the Great Migration? What even is the Great Migration?

To most travelers, an African safari is an exotic and unknown beast. This is where a travel advisor who knows Africa is a game changer. Having visited southern and eastern Africa multiple times, safaris are a passion of mine and an exilerating experience that never gets old - you just never know what you're going to see around the corner (or behind the next tree). 

South Africa is an excellent destination for first-timers, offering a balance of safari experiences, city life and wine tasting. From the vibrant city life of Cape Town and the iconic Table Mountain to the cultural richness of Johannesburg, South Africa has a fascinating culture for the traveler to explore. The Drakensberg Mountains offer dramatic landscapes, and near Cape Town, world-class wines are to be found in Stellenbosch and Franschhoek. Wildlife safaris in and around Krueger National Park offer exceptional game viewing and luxury lodge experiences. 

Eastern Africa - Kenya and Tanzania above all - is known for its abundance of wildlife. It is here that you are most likely to encounter the Big Five and the Great Migration. While a quick sojourn in Nairobi is a good introduction to the region - make sure to stay at Giraffe Manor for that up-close and personal encounter with hungry giraffes, and stop by the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust for a glimpse of the baby elephants they foster - a bush plane is at the ready to whisk you off to the African plains and your luxury camp. A mix of national parks such as the Masaai Mara, where the larger herds are to be found, and private reserves where there are fewer safari vehicles, is ideal. 

Namibia is a West African destination growing in popularity. It is known for its stunning landscapes and unique wildlife. From the otherworldly dunes of Sossusvlei in the Namib Desert to Etosha National Park, Namibia offers an extraordinary adventure. Ideal for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers, Namibia promises unforgettable experiences in a dramatic, untouched landscape. But it's also important to understand that this is a desert landscape that can't support the wildlife density of East Africa. 

And finally, Rwanda and Uganda are travel destinations renowned for their lush landscapes and unique mountain gorilla encounters. Rwanda, the "Land of a Thousand Hills," offers breathtaking scenery and unforgettable gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park. Uganda, home to the "Pearl of Africa," boasts incredible wildlife experiences, including tracking mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and exploring the diverse ecosystems of Queen Elizabeth National Park. Both countries promise enriching adventures and remarkable natural beauty.

Make your once-in-a-lifetime trip to Africa the best it can be by working with a safari expert. 

Additional Languages
German

REVIEWS

Rating: 5.0
85 reviews
100% Recommended
Your trust is our priority. Every review is submitted by verified travelers after they have booked and completed their trips. Learn more about our review guidelines.
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Showing 85 reviews

Vicky gave us trip of a lifetime
Reviewed By Kapu - Boston | Traveled to Scandinavia ~ Europe
As an avid self planned traveller all my life, you would think I would have done this "northern lights thing" by myself. But the minute my husband and I decided to go for it, Vicky was the first person to come to my mind. My goal: catch northrn lights; my dates: fixed, The rest: Vicky. She found the perfect place for us at Lyngen Lodge. With the logistics and small hurdles we faced, Vicky was right on top of it, informing us, planning alt3rnatives and getting us where we needed to. She even planned out our transit day in Tromso. We showed up with nary a worry and enjoyed the whole experience. It was truly magical. The five days we spent in the arctic gave us everything from physical adventurous stuff like dog sledding, snow shoeing to relaxing stay at a beautiful lodge. Vicky chose this place for ius as it has a high probability of northern lights and despite the forecast, th4 skies cleare out for a couple of days for us to catch the lights. Thank you Vicky!
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
3 of 3 people found this review helpful. Was this review helpful to you?YES|NO
Fabulous Hotel and First Class Travel Advisor
Reviewed By UKLass - Los Angeles | Traveled to Europe
I have worked with Vicky on several trips and each time she provides a very detailed and exceptional service. Vicky is very engaged and knowledgeable and will go the extra mile to ensure your trip is memorable.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
2 of 2 people found this review helpful. Was this review helpful to you?YES|NO
Quality recommendations!
Reviewed By Zahir - Portland | Traveled to Europe
Vicky has been great to work with! All her recommendations have been high quality and she often gets us perks and upgrades that make the experience better. I consistently recommend her to my friends and family.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
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Thank you Vicky!
Reviewed By First Time Spain Travelers - Los Angeles | Traveled to Spain ~ Europe
We've had friends that had poor experiences with travel advisors in the past - from being hard to reach and inattentive to planning things poorly. Our experience with Vicky was the opporite - she was very available, enthusiastic, and helped us plan an awesome trip. We thought she was flexible and adapted to our interests. We will definitely work with her again!
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
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10 Day Trip to Liverpool, London and Paris
Reviewed By Richard B - Bend, OR | Traveled to United Kingdom ~ Europe
Working with Vicky was a real treat, Not only was she a truly knowledgable professional that gave us great information, she was always patient with us and prompt in her responses to our endless questions and changes. Always with a great supportive attitude. More than that, we could totally trust all of her information and her arrangements, which were right on.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
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My Places

When it comes to travel planning, real-world experience makes a huge difference. Check out the map below to see all the places I have personally visited or booked for my clients. I know these destinations well and can give you reliable guidance.
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