overbooking at safari lodges

Planning a safari in Tanzania for next february.at the leventh hour just as we are about to pay a hefty deposit we are informed in the small print that due to Tanzania experiencing peak tourism levels,overbooking situations are occuring at most lodges and hotels,due to this clients may be placed in a different lodge or hotel than originally confirmed and may be of a lower standard of accomodation.This may occur without any advance notice and is beyond the xxxx travels control.we are wondering whether we want to pay a 50% non refundable deposit up front if they cannot guarantee the quality of the accomomdation.the safari supposedly stays at the Serena chain of lodges.Has anyone come across this scenario of overbooking for the high season in Tanzania?I have not seen any mention of it on this site.All replies gratefully received.

I haven't heard of this, but that clause would ring alarm bells with me.

I would understand a possible switch of accommodation but the bit about "may be of a lower standard" appears to give them carte blanche to put you in cheaper accommodation with no compensation. I would be inclined to look for another company, personally.

Sounds like an operator's "escape" clause. Try contacting/booking with that particular Serena Hotel direct.

Serena Hotels

My experience with Safaris and Tanzania, would lead me suggest, wait until you get there, if you really must go to Tanzania. Unless you are going with a group of 12 there is no real need to prebook. There are many people you can speak to once you arrive, about their experience and if you are convinced, book and pay with them. I would not go to Tanzania for a safari, nor would I suggest it to anyone. There are many other game parks in other countries that are not so over touristed.

I agree with #1 - certainly not a reputable operator.
I had an absolutely super safari exeprience with Base Camp Tanzania, and I look foward to going again.
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I disagree with #4, for a reputable operator would be solidly booked at busy time.
Also, it was certainly not over touristed.
Mind you - depending on the time - any place in the world can be over touristed.

A fellow photographer and friend who travelled to Tanzania twice and is preparing to return again in February 08 uses Duma Explorers. He says they are excellent and I trust his judgement 100 percent.

Deposits are required and payment in advance to secure your booking seems to be the norm for established, reputable companies. You get what you pay for.

Now you have some decisions to make! Happy trails!

Frederic in Montréal