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R
Sim is the best guide! Our trip to Southern Africa was amazing and so memorable, largely because of Sim's amazing positivity and fun. He was also quick on his feet when unforeseen circumstances or w…Sim is the best guide! Our trip to Southern Africa was amazing and so memorable, largely because of Sim's amazing positivity and fun. He was also quick on his feet when unforeseen circumstances or weather threw a wrench in our itinerary. We didn't miss a beat! Thank you, Sim!
K
Sim was absolutely hands down the best tour guide I’ve ever had. I’ve done about 5 group tours and he’s easily the best.
My 30th birthday was by far one I’ll remember forever. TIA BABYYYYY
A
Africa was one of my bucket list countries and a dream for many years. Having Sim as a guide has made this experience exceed my expectations into pure magic. His knowledge, patience and vast experienc…Africa was one of my bucket list countries and a dream for many years. Having Sim as a guide has made this experience exceed my expectations into pure magic. His knowledge, patience and vast experience and fun charisma has by far transformed my trip into one of the best I've ever had. Highly recommending him is an understatement.
L
Sim was an incredible guide that make sure we were all taken care of and happy. He was so organized with all the movement and border crossings. He taught us a lot and shared many firsthand experiences…Sim was an incredible guide that make sure we were all taken care of and happy. He was so organized with all the movement and border crossings. He taught us a lot and shared many firsthand experiences. He instantly became one of our friends that our group continues to keep up with.
K
He’s so fun, knowledgeable, and sincere. He makes sure everyone is having a great time!
D
My tour guide Sim and our drivers on the contiki tour safari and falls was honestly the best trip I ever been on . Sim was so knowledgeable and organized, assisting us with any questions we may have .…My tour guide Sim and our drivers on the contiki tour safari and falls was honestly the best trip I ever been on . Sim was so knowledgeable and organized, assisting us with any questions we may have . I’d highly recommend traveling with him as a guide again
J
Sim was absolutely phenomenal, he was so knowledgeable about everywhere we went and everything we did. He was more than just a guide, he quickly became an amazing friend and inspiration. He was always…Sim was absolutely phenomenal, he was so knowledgeable about everywhere we went and everything we did. He was more than just a guide, he quickly became an amazing friend and inspiration. He was always so kind and patient with us even if we were pushing his buttons. The trip was amazing and Sim made it even better!
D
11 Day Cape Safari & Falls Tour with Simbonile Mdunyelwa
I work in tourism and travel extensively on guided tours - approx. 80% of my year is spent on guided tours - I have travelled with many guid…11 Day Cape Safari & Falls Tour with Simbonile Mdunyelwa
I work in tourism and travel extensively on guided tours - approx. 80% of my year is spent on guided tours - I have travelled with many guides over the years and I can say without hesitation that this is the best tour experience I've had and that is absolutely due to our guide Sim. Buckle up - this is a long read, but Sim deserves it.
What sets Sim apart is not only his extraordinary knowlege, but the way he uses that knowledge with purpose. Every day felt like more than a tour - it felt like an opportunity to learn, reflect, and connect more deeply with the people, places, history, and the broader world around us which I believe is exactly what the true purpose of travel is all about.
He has a rare ability to make complex topics accessible and engaging, and never shied away from difficult or more sensitive conversations. Whether discussing historical events or modern-day realities, he approached each subject with care and openness, and answered every question with remarkable depth, leaving us with a much richer understanding and insight across an incredibly diverse range of topics.
Knowledge aside, what impressed me most was the way he genuinely lives by his values. He consistently modelled mindfulness, kindness, and respect in all his interactions. A great example of this I witnessed was him referring to our driver as his colleague, rather than simply "the driver", which set a tone of dignity and equality for everyone he works alongside. He encouraged us to be thoughtful about what we consumed and not waste food, making sure leftovers were shared with people in need. These might seem like small things but I believe they reflect a much bigger philosphy; care for self, care for others, and care for our planet.
His impact extends far beyond tourism. He is actively invested in educating and supporting young people, helping create opportunities and guiding them toward postive paths. That sense of service and responsiblitiy shows up in everything he does. Beyond that, his energy is amazing. He was warm, welcoming, organized, and endlessly patient. Each day was structured clearly and operated smoothly with instructions that were easy to follow. He is always smiling, dancing, singing, and setting the tone for the entire group.
Sim didn't just show us a few new destinations and some cool animals. He brought this part of the world to life and created an environment where people felt connected, curious, and inspired to leave not only with great memories but as better versions of themselves. Good guides share information, remarkable guides leave a lasting impact and thats exactly what he's done.
Thanks for everything Sim; you've got my vote for president ;)
B
Simbonlie (sim) was such An amazing tour fried. He is always prepared and you never need to stress. Any question you ask he is always happy to help weather that’s history or what we are doing. He make…Simbonlie (sim) was such An amazing tour fried. He is always prepared and you never need to stress. Any question you ask he is always happy to help weather that’s history or what we are doing. He makes everyone feel included and will always be your biggest advocate. Overall amazing tour guide and even better human being
A
My guide is Sim for the Southern Africa Contiki trip! It has made such a difference to have a guide who is a local to the community. This is my 4th Contiki and he is the first that has been a local gu…My guide is Sim for the Southern Africa Contiki trip! It has made such a difference to have a guide who is a local to the community. This is my 4th Contiki and he is the first that has been a local guide. There hasn’t been a question he hasn’t been able to answer, which has allowed for an environment where I feel more comfortable and confident asking him more than just surface level questions. He is extremely knowledgeable and I think due to his knowledge it has allowed us to have much more in depth conversations about more important topics. He has such a great personality and amazing energy that has allowed for such a fun and positive vibe within our group. He has made it feel very easy and safe when it comes to logistical things like crossing borders, flights, accommodations etc. He has been a fantastic guide and has really changed my Contiki experience in positive way because he is a local and has had some much information and knowledge to share!
Z
Sim was sensational! Very organised, prompt and able to be flexible when needed. The whole trip from start to finish was made so easy - I was surprised transit and getting on planes was so organised!
K
The most amazing guide. Life changing experience.
H
Sim was a fantastic tour guide. He had a wonderful energy the whole trip and handled any issue with ease. He made everyone feel welcome and ensured we all had fun. I also loved all the history and kno…Sim was a fantastic tour guide. He had a wonderful energy the whole trip and handled any issue with ease. He made everyone feel welcome and ensured we all had fun. I also loved all the history and knowledge he shared with us. No question went unanswered!!
M
If you’re ever graced with the privilege of being in Sim’s presence anywhere on the Southern African continent, just know that you couldn’t be in more capable hands.
Whether it’s cultural talks, l…If you’re ever graced with the privilege of being in Sim’s presence anywhere on the Southern African continent, just know that you couldn’t be in more capable hands.
Whether it’s cultural talks, language lessons (he speaks 5!), or leopard spotting (his speciality), there is zero doubt that you will have the absolute trip of a lifetime with Sim as your Leader. No one will do more or give more to ensure that each traveller he meets has the most incredible experience, whatever they may be doing.
After 10+ group tours across the globe with who knows how many guides, Sim firmly sits right at the forefront of all.
Thank you Sim for sharing your knowledge, your story, your homeland with us all🫶🏻
E
My trip was absolutely amazing my trip manager sim made it an absolutely memorable, exciting and fun trip. I couldn’t have asked for a better trip manager.
Had the immense pleasure of being guided around South Africa, Zambia, and Botswana by the one and only Sim (Simbonile Mdunyelwa) - he is utter sunshine in a person. The kind of guide that goes above a…Had the immense pleasure of being guided around South Africa, Zambia, and Botswana by the one and only Sim (Simbonile Mdunyelwa) - he is utter sunshine in a person. The kind of guide that goes above and beyond and lives and breathes travel, adventure, and customer service. His knowledge, humour and character are impeccable, but when he thinks no one is watching or he isn’t being noticed is where he shines. He truly leads by example and with unimaginable heart. Every single person we came across, whether they were working in a shop, working at border control, passing us in the street, Sim was laughing, high-giving them, looking like best mates. He is just the purest soul ever. He is patient, kind, fun. The kind of person that brightens everyone’s day and has time for everyone!! I have worked as a tour guide in the past, I know how challenging certain days or situations can be, but nothing phases Sim. He can handle anything, and what more, he does it all with a smile. He is for sure Guide of the Year, even if he doesn’t win, he will always be a winner.
I
Sim was a fantastic tour guide, he made the trip enjoyable and made sure we all had fun and got to experience everything we hoped for! His energy, kindness and is unmatched. One of the best trips I ha…Sim was a fantastic tour guide, he made the trip enjoyable and made sure we all had fun and got to experience everything we hoped for! His energy, kindness and is unmatched. One of the best trips I have done!
Sim was seriously more than a guide and changed me and my husband’s lives on our honeymoon trip that he was our guide for. His care, compassion, and knowledge stretch beyond the normal limits and make…Sim was seriously more than a guide and changed me and my husband’s lives on our honeymoon trip that he was our guide for. His care, compassion, and knowledge stretch beyond the normal limits and make every passenger feel like family. We live Sim & cannot wait to travel with him again!
S
I was very unsure of the whole group thing and a tour guide as I only ever solo backpack. From day one of meeting our guide Sim he completely changed my mind and made the trip one I can never forget, …I was very unsure of the whole group thing and a tour guide as I only ever solo backpack. From day one of meeting our guide Sim he completely changed my mind and made the trip one I can never forget, he made a special bucket list trip even more personal and special and truly was everything anyone could ask for out of a tour guide, a true legend
R
It was such an amazing experience being with sim, he made our trip really meaningful it exceeded my expectation. I would definitely would love to be in another trip with him.
P
Sim felt like a friend you felt comfortable putting your trust in right from the start. Consistently addressing our tour group as "good people" and shaping a sense of family right from the first day, …Sim felt like a friend you felt comfortable putting your trust in right from the start. Consistently addressing our tour group as "good people" and shaping a sense of family right from the first day, Sim reminded us daily how we should always be our authentic selves as we all were enough just as we are. Sim engaged with our group on a personal level with the utmost professionalism. Sim's vulnerability and optimism was contagious, adding a new layer of meaning to our experience.
Sim went the extra mile to go above and beyond expectations for daily logistics,
There were numerous occasions Sim was able to work his magic to allow us to check-in to our stays multiple hours early. Sim was adaptable when our whole time in Cape Town rained, so he switched our itinerary around to accommodate and even bought each tour member a gift as a "thank you for being understanding of the weather". Sim always remained positive despite the inevitable challenges in itinerary logistics. Sim always had a good attitude and smile on his face, making clapping along and singing Wamkelikele with him on the bus each morning an enjoyable part of waking up early.
Sim even extended his time as a guide by escorting my cousin and I up to Table Mountain after the last day of the tour since we were unable to do so in Cape Town during the tour due to the rain, which was another instance he went out of his way to make our experience an 11 out of 10.
My trip with Sim was 100% the best trip I’ve ever been on. Sim was amazing in every aspect and during our trip, him and I formed a close bond which I’m sure he does with every other person on his trip…My trip with Sim was 100% the best trip I’ve ever been on. Sim was amazing in every aspect and during our trip, him and I formed a close bond which I’m sure he does with every other person on his trip. This makes him so wonderful. He was always super organised and knew exactly what was happening when. We were always on time for all our activities and meals. If whenever someone was feeling down on our trip, Sim would immediately pick them back up again with his words. He is so good at making each and every person feel comfortable and included, especially me! As a sufferer of social anxiety, i didn’t feel anxious at all around Sim, he made me so comfortable and at ease almost instantly and i’m so grateful for that. It made the trip so much better for me. Sim has come such a long way and I’m so proud of him and everything that he does. In my opinion he is the BEST tour guide ever and I really wish to have him as one in the future.
C
Sim is the best travel guide I have ever had. He got to know the group and we became like family, he treated us all with respect, care, and kindness and made sure we all felt supported along the way!
Sim was my first travel guide and can I say it was the best trip I could have asked for. He was not only informative about his home country and had a range of different facts, he was also very adaptiv…Sim was my first travel guide and can I say it was the best trip I could have asked for. He was not only informative about his home country and had a range of different facts, he was also very adaptive with the group. Not only did he share his personal experiences but he pushed us to challenge the norms. Sim is an unbelievable tour guide and anyone wanting to go on tour in South Africa should do it with Sim.
M
I did a Cape To Delta Contiki trip in Africa last October and it changed my life but not only the trip, the trip manager did as well. He was absolutely fantastic and really made a real impact on the g…I did a Cape To Delta Contiki trip in Africa last October and it changed my life but not only the trip, the trip manager did as well. He was absolutely fantastic and really made a real impact on the group. His name was Sim and the amount of things he did for us, for his local community, his family, his mentorship, his people, the wildlife, the plant is like no other that I’ve ever met. He supports travellers and supported us by showing us his beautiful country and taking/ coming with us on Game Drives within the national parks to see the animals. He is a wealth of knowledge and is a man that makes a mark on the wildlife and people he meets. He has incredible knowledge and runs the trips so well. When he isn’t a trip manager he is a mentor in his local township for young boys. Thanks for changing my life Sim and Contiki, I am forever greatful.
J
Sim was the most informative, fun, inspiring and incredible tour manager I’ve ever had! He made it his personal goal to make this the trip of everyone’s lifetime not just through what they saw, but al…Sim was the most informative, fun, inspiring and incredible tour manager I’ve ever had! He made it his personal goal to make this the trip of everyone’s lifetime not just through what they saw, but also their thought process of the world and how they can change it for the better and become better people! He is truly an inspiration.
D
My tour guide sim was the best part of the whole experience! All of the activities were amazing but sim bought all the vibes and made everything better! 😍☺️
Had an amazing and very educational holiday in Africa! Would 110% recommend
Sim was the best tour guide ever
L
Sim made my tour of Southern Africa more magical than I could have ever expected. He shared personal stories that gave us insight into the lives of people that I never would have known otherwise. His …Sim made my tour of Southern Africa more magical than I could have ever expected. He shared personal stories that gave us insight into the lives of people that I never would have known otherwise. His passion for the wildlife (land, sky and sea), the people and our tour really shone through!!
Good guide, very funny guy
L
The trip was an amazing experience, with Sim beeing a great trip manager, very professional but also fun and knowledgeable
I enjoyed a Contiki tour at the end of 2024 in South Africa with my girlfriend. The tour was exceptional - although South Africa is an incredible country, it was brought to life by our guide Sim. His …I enjoyed a Contiki tour at the end of 2024 in South Africa with my girlfriend. The tour was exceptional - although South Africa is an incredible country, it was brought to life by our guide Sim. His combination of encyclopedic knowledge for all the factual questions we had with an emotional depth and willingness to share his views and stories of his own life in South Africa, and nuanced perspectives on politics, sport, societal inequality, truly made it a once in a lifetime trip. I came away with a far richer understanding of this tapestry of a country, and I would highly recommend anyone travel with Contiki, and Sim in particular.
Sim is extremely passionate about what he does and connects with all the travelers so well! Not only is he informative, he is super entertaining as well! I miss being around him and his energy, but wi…Sim is extremely passionate about what he does and connects with all the travelers so well! Not only is he informative, he is super entertaining as well! I miss being around him and his energy, but will proudly carry his energy with me wherever I go! He made every part of the itinerary fun for all the tourists.
C
Sim was the best tour guide I have ever had. He deserves the be recognized - he truly made me and all my fellow travelers experience in South Africa. I would give him 15 stars out of 5 if I could!
I still dream about my time in South Africa and what an incredible experience it was. Sim really went above and beyond to make sure we loved it as much as he does. His passion shines through and I hig…I still dream about my time in South Africa and what an incredible experience it was. Sim really went above and beyond to make sure we loved it as much as he does. His passion shines through and I highly recommend him as a tour guide
R
Sim was incredible, such a beautiful person and amazing guide! Always brought so much joy and energy, could not have asked for more
Sim was an amazing trip manager. He took care of everything and always went the extra mile to ensure each of us had the best trip possible. I hope I can do another trip with him someday.
I absolutely loved my trip! And Sim was an amazing and very knowledgeable trip manager. He made the experience!
J
Sim was amazing, could not have asked for a better guide.
Going to Africa, for most people it’s a very unfamiliar experience and you need a lot of advice and guidance as you travel through, Sim pr…Sim was amazing, could not have asked for a better guide.
Going to Africa, for most people it’s a very unfamiliar experience and you need a lot of advice and guidance as you travel through, Sim provided all the knowledge and advice you could ask for while keeping the whole experience fun and smooth.
We were a group tour for 11 days and in that short time the whole group became close knit very early on and by the end it was a bit sad to say bye, which is almost 100% down to Sim making everyone feel comfortable and not only being a great tour leader but also being just another part of the group.
Best guide / your leader I’ve ever had hands down
Sim was a great guide. He went above and beyond to make things run smoothly and make sure people were happy. 100% would recommend him to anyone, and I hope he gets a raise!
M
Sim was the best tour guide I've ever had. Constantly energetic, positive, friendly & always concerned with how everyone was feeling. He's also super funny & sweet. A great man!
My trip to Southern Africa was simply the best, and sim is a big reason for it! Sims energy and positive attitude really made the trip so much more enjoyable. Sim is very caring towards his group memb…My trip to Southern Africa was simply the best, and sim is a big reason for it! Sims energy and positive attitude really made the trip so much more enjoyable. Sim is very caring towards his group members and truly caters towards everyone’s wants and needs. Sim helped me tremendously when my luggage broke on the trip by walking me to a shopping center and securing a new one! If i ever return to Southern Africa again, i want sim as my tour guide!
D
Sim was the greatest Trip Manager I could’ve asked for! He was so friendly, insightful, and kept everyone in high spirits through every step. This Southern Africa trip would not have been nearly as wo…Sim was the greatest Trip Manager I could’ve asked for! He was so friendly, insightful, and kept everyone in high spirits through every step. This Southern Africa trip would not have been nearly as wonderful without him, and anyone would be the luckiest to have him as their guide !!
S
Sim was a wonderful and professional tour guide who has a high level of knowledge and understanding of South Africa. He’s organisation of activities and time schedules was exceptional. By having Sim a…Sim was a wonderful and professional tour guide who has a high level of knowledge and understanding of South Africa. He’s organisation of activities and time schedules was exceptional. By having Sim as our tour guide it made this trip even more memorable and enjoyable as he took the extra stress of traveling in a new country away.
Sim was an incredible guide.. he made sure to check on everyone and connect
D
I had the best time on this trip! Sim was very helpful, informative, and reliable!
He is friendly, careful and try to make my trip best.
Sim is honestly the best tour guide! I loved loved loved traveling with him and would love to take a trip again with him sometime. He was everything you’d want in a tour guide and I can’t recommend hi…Sim is honestly the best tour guide! I loved loved loved traveling with him and would love to take a trip again with him sometime. He was everything you’d want in a tour guide and I can’t recommend him enough.
Simbonile was an excellent guide! He was knowledgeable, approachable, and caring. Not only was his passion for teaching our group about his culture and favorite places evident, but the level of care f…Simbonile was an excellent guide! He was knowledgeable, approachable, and caring. Not only was his passion for teaching our group about his culture and favorite places evident, but the level of care for our safety and satisfaction was above average. I cannot say enough good things about exploring South Africa with Sim as our guide. I just wish we could have stayed longer!
Contiki Sim was a great guide for my trip to Africa!
The Sea and Safari South Africa Contiki trip was an incredible trip and well exceeded my expectations! Very well planned itinerary with various activities and a great mix of seeing the animals on safa…The Sea and Safari South Africa Contiki trip was an incredible trip and well exceeded my expectations! Very well planned itinerary with various activities and a great mix of seeing the animals on safari and viewing South Africa’s beautiful coastlines. My trip manager Sim was the best I could have asked for. He always checked in with everyone to make sure we were all having the best time!
I loved this trip to South Africa more than words can say, i left feeling revitalised and inspired for my home life and its all thanks to our trip manager Sim. The itinerary was well organised and pac…I loved this trip to South Africa more than words can say, i left feeling revitalised and inspired for my home life and its all thanks to our trip manager Sim. The itinerary was well organised and packed full of incredible experiences, for me the highlights were the safari at Schotia, wine tasting, and the cooking class. Sim also invited us to join him on a hike outside of the itinerary on our last morning which was probably my favourite part of the whole trip. Cape Town is such a beautiful place and to see it from here at sunrise with good people was magical. I made lifelong friends and had an amazing time and it's all thanks to Sim! We love you Sim!
M
Sim is the best Trip Manager ever. He was funny and patient.
Sum is an amazing guide, from giving us an amazing trip he is full of information, and experiences which gives you a wealth of knowledge. Sim is always trying to accommodate all travellers and makes …Sum is an amazing guide, from giving us an amazing trip he is full of information, and experiences which gives you a wealth of knowledge. Sim is always trying to accommodate all travellers and makes the trip fun and enjoyable for all. He is a very fun and uplifting person he walks into the room and everyone’s mood lifts making the trip always interesting.
Sim is an incredibly knowledgeable, funny, engaging guide that I would highly recommend to others.
Sim is phenomenal! I will definitely be coming back to do another tour with him :)
Sim from Contiki was the most amazing trip manager! He was fun, knowledgeable and get like a friend throughout. I am purposely looking at new trips that he also tours so I can be in his group again!
I just finished a two week tour with Sim and had the most incredible time. His organisation and communication skills were something to be admired as well as everything else he put into this trip. His …I just finished a two week tour with Sim and had the most incredible time. His organisation and communication skills were something to be admired as well as everything else he put into this trip. His unlimited kindness was something we all admired most about him, with it being given to all those on the tour, any local guides or people working in the service industry, as well as any locals we encountered whilst there. I also believe the itinerary was a perfect introduction to two weeks in South Africa. We were able to go on many different safaris, seeing so many incredible animals and learning so much both from Sim and the guides. We also had a great balance of other fun activities, with the cooking class and the kayaking being my stand outs. Also being able to go and visit the townships and villages and meeting those living there was very educational and worthwhile, and I believe something that is needed when visiting. Sadly, a few activities were cancelled due to weather (both mountain biking and the marine safari), so it was a shame they could not have been done, as I’m sure they would have also been incredible. Overall though, I had the most amazing time with Sim on this tour, and want to go do it all over again.
This was truly the trip of a lifetime, and I would highly recommend it to anyone wanting to immerse themselves in a bright and vibrant culture. Every part of the experience—from the organised activiti…This was truly the trip of a lifetime, and I would highly recommend it to anyone wanting to immerse themselves in a bright and vibrant culture. Every part of the experience—from the organised activities to the incredible group of fellow travellers—was unforgettable. But what truly made this trip exceptional was our trip manager, Sim.
Sim went above and beyond to ensure every single person felt welcomed, included, and cared for. Whether it was sharing insightful knowledge about each destination, handling logistics seamlessly, or bringing the energy with spontaneous karaoke and bus ride entertainment, Sim made every moment special. It was clear that they genuinely cared about creating an experience that was not only fun but also meaningful.
Thanks to Sim, this Contiki trip wasn’t just about seeing new places—it was about feeling connected, pushing past comfort zones, and making lifelong memories. We couldn’t have asked for a better trip manager, and I truly believe Sim deserves recognition for their dedication, enthusiasm, and ability to bring people together.