Testimonials - Tsessebe Safaris

TESTIMONIALS

Craig Boddington (USA) In June 2023 and 2024 I had the great pleasure of hunting with Chico and sons, Jose Maria "Chico" Marzal, at their stunning Tsessebe Lodge in Limpopo, South Africa - great family, great people, wonderful hosts! Loved the lodge, with spacious side rooms and a warm fireplace inside. Delicious food with a European touch - definitely the only paella I've seen in Africa! Between the two hunts, Chico took us on a tour of several concessions. Vast territory, lots of game, the quality of the trophies was evident: I saw some of the best buffalo, antelope, kudu and sables I've seen in years. Along with other clients, I have accompanied Chico on numerous buffalo hunts. He is a very experienced, skilled and confident hunter; I have full confidence in his abilities and highly recommend him.

Bryan Pettet (USA) My hunt with Chico & Sons and Craig Boddington was fantastic. The facilities, food and staff are excellent. I have traveled and hunted quite a bit, but the genetics of their properties were amazing...the largest buffalo in Africa...I hunted a buck that weighed 1080 kg and had 50 cm heads! I hunted another 122 cm buffalo and we passed up many over 102 cm! The saber was 122 cm with 28 cm bases... unbelievable! Besides that, what impressed me most was the warmth and hospitality of Chico's family and staff. The truth is that I came as a client and left as a friend, I highly recommend Chico & Sons and Tsessebe Safaris!

John Dull II (USA) The phrase "arrives as a stranger, leaves as a friend" is often used in African hunting concessions, but I feel that the staff at Tsessebe welcomed me as a friend and left me as a dear friend. Honest, professional and caring are words that describe Chico and his family. I feel blessed by God to have had the experience of hunting with Chico and would not hesitate to hunt with him again or recommend anyone to do the same.

Justin Lyons (USA) Thank you for a dream come true! I always wanted to hunt Cape buffalo, even from a young age, reading all the stories. Special thanks to Chico for guiding me, keeping me safe and confident. Thanks to Esau (the tracker), who spotted the buffalo in the tall grass a mile away and then spotted him as we approached, lying in the tall grass. The stalk was classic, step by step, no cover, at 45 yards. Chico kept me calm and I got it right. An unforgettable buffalo. The highlight of my hunting life. thanks, buddy!!!!!

John Brennan (Australia) Thank you Chico and team for a wonderful experience. A tough hunt in the traditional manner, on foot and up close. Buffalo in the mountains a great challenge. Viva Chico!

CONRAD EVARTS (USA) I have been travelling the world with Craig Boddington as his television producer and partner at CBEO for almost 20 years. I have seen the 'good, the bad and the ugly' of outfitters in that time. Tsessebe Safaris has the facilities and the species they claim to have. What sets them apart is their deep desire to see the hunter succeed and a genuine family atmosphere. It is a place you can take your whole family with complete confidence, your family will have a wholesome experience. They keep their word and are strong on family values.

Richard Charlton (USA)In June 2024, I hunted with José María "Chico" Marzal at Tsessebe Lodge in South Africa's Limpopo province. It was the kind of hunt you expect when you travel to Africa: well-organized, hard-earned and full of quality game. Chico is confident, and he has earned it. He knows his ground, he knows his game and he knows how to play it. He runs a family operation with great attention to detail and a deep knowledge of the savannah. The buffalo we were looking for were no joke: old, heavy and wild. One male was so huge he broke a trailer during unloading. You don't see that every day. And the highlight for me? A 71 cm Rowland Ward nyala: a towering bull, the kind of trophy you dream about (pictured). The lodge was clean, comfortable, and just what you're looking for after riding miles all day. Good beds, good people and a fire to end the night.

BENCE KOVACS (HUNGARY) Tsessebe Safaris- Jose Maria Marzal Pacheco, for me, is the best hunting company and hunting estate in South Africa. I have been hunting in Africa for more than 30 years, I have a lot of experience and a lot of judgement, the secret is that the clients here do not feel like clients! It is the feeling of being in a friend's house. Familiarity, hospitality, haute cuisine and ethical sport hunting. Hunting with José María is unforgettable and I recommend him to all hunters who are looking for the quintessence of hunting!

Craig Boddington (USA) In June 23, I enjoyed a wonderful buffalo safari with Jose Maria Marzal of Chico & Sons at their stunning Tsessebe Safaris Lodge in the Limpopo Valley. Beautiful country, lots of game! The accommodation is fantastic, the food is excellent... with a unique European touch. We followed the buffalo on foot, as it should be done. Thick country, close shooting, good hunting... with wonderful people. Hope to hunt again with Chico and his sons!

MIGUEL ANGEL VILALLONGA (SPAIN) My son David and I had the good fortune to share some unforgettable days of buffalo hunting in South Africa Limpopo with Jose Maria Marzal. We have fond memories of him, his lovely family and Tsessebe Lodge. Thank you for providing us with this long awaited opportunity. Good luck and good hunting.

FRANCISCO LOPEZ DE AYALA (SPAIN) Since the breakfasts every morning I am savouring Africa... Jose Maria Marzal's team has everything prepared, another full day of hunting... in the off-road vehicle the sightings begin, then the stalking does not take long to arrive... the approaches and the abates follow one after the other. At the end of the safari with the objectives fulfilled we said goodbye with sorrow. Congratulations Jose Maria ...now we only think about coming back.

FERNADO RODRIGUEZ (SPAIN) Hunting in ZIMBAWE with Jose Maria a magnificent buffalo, from 8 to 2 in the afternoon on foot after the track with heat, a lot of heat by the nerves and the scorching sun... we hunted it from power to power. Pure hunting. Chico hears little by the shots and sometimes you have to repeat things to him ; that's why I say that he is a great hunter ... a great hunter ... honest and honest ... honest and above all a friend, a great friend. I hope you have understood me ! A big hug, we had a great time, great memories.

ALEJANDRO GARCIA (SPAIN) After four expeditions with Tsessebe Safaris/ Chico Marzal I can affirm from experience the following points in capital letters. SERIOUSNESS. NATURAL HUNTING. CONSERVATION. FAMILIAR TREATMENT. PROFESSIONALISM AND EXPERIENCE IN DANGEROUS GAME HUNTING.

ANTONIO OTERINO (SPAIN) Very difficult to have a better overall hunting experience. Particularly impressed with the performances of the dogs after wounded animals. Yours sincerely.

EDGARDO CONSOLI (ARGETINA) Extraordinary my experience in Africa... the places, the trophies, the way of hunting and above all the pleasure of having shared a few days with Jose Maria and his family. More than what I imagined. Thank you

CONCEPCION JARAIZ (SPAIN) For me an unforgettable experience every time I go.... The smells, the sunsets, the gastronomy in Tsessebe Lodge with a Michelin star. Every time I go I get even more hooked and when I leave I only dream of coming back. These are unique and unforgettable experiences. Thanks to all the team and especially to Jose Maria, Maria Jesus and Borja Marzal. A big hug.

CURRO (SPAIN) I would like to thank the Marzal family and all their team for the great moments we have enjoyed together in my two African expeditions. It was a pleasure to hunt in all the farms always in an ethical and sportive way. I hope to return soon to your magnificent facilities to continue practising the passion of hunting as a family.

MANUEL GALLARDO ROJO (SPAIN) After looking and looking we decided to go on safari to Africa with Jose Maria Marzal Pacheco ¨Tsessebe Safaris ¨ . Never a better choice; the lodge, the welcome by the service staff, the big and comfortable rooms. All thanks to a gentleman from Extremadura and his family. A big hug from the one who came back from Africa leaving a great friend.

JORGE AND EVA HIDALGO (SPAIN) Hunting with Chico Marzal was a very nice experience, you can see what a great professional he is! My experience with the buffalo hunt was very exciting but he transmitted a lot of tranquility. Without doubt I would repeat the experience, JORGE / The decoration is very original and everything is very comfortable. Cleanliness impeccable...they always make sure that nothing is missing and the food is exquisite. I would highlight the excellent treatment of Chico Marzal and all the staff, EVA

JAVIER BASELGA (SPAIN) Our experience was incredible; not only in terms of hunting. Lodge built so that hunters and companions have all the comforts and feel Africa. Both Chico and his team are great professionals. They have huge hunting concessions with a great variety and density of animals and very good quality trophies. When you arrive at the lodge, you will be surprised by the excellent food and Maria Jesus, Chico's wife, makes sure that everything is ready for you. It is a perfect place for African game, both antelope and buffalo. We recommend Tsessebe Safaris without any hesitation and I am available to assist anyone who needs more details.

DAVID RODRIGUEZ (SPAIN) It was a great pleasure to hunt with Chico Marzal, excellent professional in all aspects. My first safari ; without forgetting his great lady with her responsibilities very well defended.

DANIEL BLASQUEZ (SPAIN) Incredible safari with authentic hunting ¨ the real thing ¨ , of which unfortunately there is almost no more.... The treatment of the whole Marzal family was very nice. Undoubtedly a unique experience and we are looking forward to return as many times as God permits.

JOSE MARIA GALLARDO PRESIDENT OF THE EXTREMEÑA HUNTING FEDERATION (SPAIN) I recommend to all those who start hunting in Africa to do it with professionals like Chico Marzal. The hunting days were very well organised and unforgettable. Enjoy Tsessebe Lodge is to enjoy the family, the gastronomy and a magnificent care in every detail. It is worth the experience, I encourage you all to meet and hunt with Tsessebe Safaris.

JOAQUIN PLA (SPAIN) Bon dia ! The hunt of the lion, lioness and buffalo on foot is something very exciting and when you get to locate it and you approach so close of the hand of Jose Maria as PH, the adrenaline comes out of the ears. An unforgettable safari.

FERNANDO LUENGO (SPAIN) An unforgettable experience, pure and quality hunting, familiar treatment. We enjoyed the stay, the landscapes and the hunting. We will come back again with the whole family.

PEPE BOTE (SPAIN) Unforgettable safari offered by Chico Marzal and his charming family, where we have enjoyed an impressive nature, fabulous facilities, unbeatable gastronomy, hunting and animals out of series and all with insurmountable affection. To repeat

ANGEL GALLARDO (SPAIN) My safari with Jose Maria Marzal has been the best experience of my life as a hunter. Professionalism, experience and treatment. I will come back.

ESTEBAN SOLANO (SPAIN) What can I say about my experience! From the moment I landed it was an accumulation of satisfactions and hunting you feel a continuous adrenaline that cannot be easily explained, from the moment you hunt the first trophy to the last one.

CHELO DE ORO (SPAIN) For me it has been a pleasure to hunt with Jose Maria Marzal, he is a very welcoming family and is very involved with the hunters. The farm is beautiful and the accommodation is a luxury to rest after a long day of intense hunting, they have everything to detail. The food is very good and you can see the animals all day long from the jeep! Tsessebe Safaris has it all, we repeat and delighted to be able to come back again at any time.

LUIS CAPOTE (SPAIN) My opinion and opinion could not be better because of the welcome from the first moment we arrived in Johannesburg, solving the typical problems that usually arise because of the language etc.. Above all the hunting and all the organization, stay, kitchen. It couldn't be better. Excellent to rest and very good sensations. I recommend it, you will enjoy what we do...hunting.

ROMAN PINTOR (SPAIN) My experience with Jose Maria and family, unbeatable and the treatment and the most professional and satisfactory hunting. The lodge was impressive with all luxury of details and the food was spectacular. My wife and I have only good memories of our honeymoon in South Africa. We will repeat for sure.

ALFONSO DIEZ (SPAIN) I always had the illusion of hunting in Africa, I saw it as distant and difficult until I met Jose Maria Marzal and his team of professionals who made my stay in South Africa unforgettable. Safari organized to my taste with exquisite treatment and kindness. To come back

ALFONSO MERA (SPAIN) An extraordinary trip, hunting with some impressive sets in the company of very good professionals. The facilities and the treatment of luxury. To repeat.

FEDERICO VELAZ DE MEDRANO (SPAIN) It was an unforgettable Christmas with the family, sharing magnificent days of hunting, stimulating this blessed hobby in the children and warmly received by the Marzal family.

FERNANDO VILLEGAS (SPAIN) I decided to go on my first family safari because of the good reputation of Tsessebe Safaris, chaired by Jose Maria Marzal Pacheco, and I can attest that I was right and it is an understatement to say that both the hunting and the personal treatment exceeded all expectations. Pure hunting, idyllic and wild landscapes, unimaginable extensions. My next safari has a destination. Tsessebe Safaris.

JOSE LUIS (SPAIN) Few words can define the excellent sensations of pure hunting with a great professional as Jose Maria Marzal, the organization of 10.The best is to go and experience it.

FELIPE GALVEZ (SPAIN) We spent some wonderful days hunting. The organisation, the hunting lodges and everything else is 100% recommendable.

GUADALUPE Y ALONSO (SPAIN) A unique place to live a unique experience, landscapes and sunsets difficult to forget. Very familiar treatment that make you feel at home, very comfortable facilities and all the staff very friendly ... no doubt we will come back. +34 687787 474 guadi1984@gmail.com

PEDRO MATEOS (SPAIN) Phenomenal. I have enjoyed three times already a great experience in South Africa with Tsessebe Safaris. Great family and very professional.

JUAN JIMENEZ ORTIZ (SPAIN) We would like to thank Jose Maria and his family for the exquisite treatment they gave us during our safari. Great professional hunters who take care of the organization and security down to the smallest detail with a familiar treatment that you end up forgetting that you are not at home. We will be back soon to continue discovering Africa. Thank you for everything.

TOMAS DE JUAN (SPAIN ). Hunting with Jose Maria Marzal is hunting with a professional. Treatment, education and know how to be, great connoisseurs of the field, of the animals and their preferences. An experience that I will certainly repeat; quantity and quality of trophies, that is where good management is appreciated, ideal plan in Africa and the food is awesome. Thank you very much and best regards.

PEDRO BELLON. (SPAIN) Delighted, the hunting experience, the treatment, the place, the people, the environment, the dedication and the affection that you gave us was incomparable. God willing we will come back. A big hug

ALVARO PELOCHE (SPAIN) I was told about Jose Maria Marzal and I called him, with the call I chose him and then I checked that I had not been wrong, I know that I will see him again in Africa. I am not a stalker but after the safari I was absolutely impressed. The sensations I was looking for were the ones he gave me.

IGNACIO DOLZ (SPAIN) We have enjoyed a lot with Jose Maria, his team and his family. The game is absolutely authentic, plentiful and the game entrances are fantastic. The lodge is really good and the food is spectacular; the rooms are worthy of a great hotel.

EMILIO GARCIA (SPAIN) With Jose Maria Marzal Pacheco Safaris unbeatable in hunting, nature and panoramic views. Good work of Jose Maria and his people. All a happiness and enjoyment, you feel at home, with friends. Everyone always looking after you, you do not miss anything; all kindness and affection. Thank you all, it is a pleasure to have enjoyed with you. With all my love, a hug to the MARZAL PACHECO family.

EDUARDO HURTADO (SPAIN) We organised a trip with a group of friends and the whole family in which some friends were going to hunt and others to go sightseeing in the area. I was worried about the non-hunting part of the group but in the end, the result was unbeatable. Chico and his family made sure we all had the best trip of our lives.

In June 2023 and 2024 I had the great pleasure of hunting with Chico and sons, Jose Maria "Chico" Marzal, at their stunning Tsessebe Lodge in Limpopo, South Africa - great family, great people, wonderful hosts! Loved the lodge, with spacious side rooms and a warm fireplace inside. Delicious food with a European touch - definitely the only paella I've seen in Africa!

Between the two hunts, Chico took us on a tour of several concessions. Vast territory, lots of game, the quality of the trophies was evident: I saw some of the best buffalo, antelope, kudu and sables I've seen in years. Along with other clients, I have accompanied Chico on numerous buffalo hunts. He is a very experienced, skilled and confident hunter; I have full confidence in his abilities and highly recommend him.

Craig Boddington, USA

Hunting with Chico & Sons, Tsessebe Safaris

In June 2023, I had the great pleasure of enjoying a safari with José María Marzal of Chico & Sons at Tsessebe Safaris Lodge in Limpopo, South Africa. Chico, his son Borja and his entire staff welcomed me like an old friend for a week of hunting, fine dining and relaxation at their beautiful lodge and concessions, inhabited by a wide variety of animals, both plains game and big game.

My objectives for the trip were to hunt a buffalo cafre with a revolver and along with another guest of Chico's, Craig Boddington, who was camping with me. My objectives were far exceeded thanks to the attentive tutelage of Chico, Craig Boddington and Borja, his son. I was able to hunt not only my buffalo, but also a magnificent bushbuck antelope and a red hartebeest. The understanding they all showed in working with the limitations of my gun use was greatly appreciated and clearly demonstrated their dedication as a client. They patiently guided me through several failed stalks as we attempted to shorten the shooting distance at a pistol range. Even with my distance limitations, the Tsessebe crew made my safari a resounding success.

The kitchen and housekeeping staff at Tsessebe also deserve a special mention. My room was very comfortable and kept spotless throughout my stay, the laundry was impeccably done daily, and the food was superb. The table and wines had Mediterranean influences, as is to be expected, given that Spain is the Marzal family's country of origin. The kitchen staff went to great lengths to prepare meals according to the dietary guidelines imposed on me due to a medical condition - I think I ate better and healthier at Tsessebe than I did at home!

The phrase "you arrive as a stranger, you leave as a friend" is often used in African hunting concessions, but I feel that the staff at Tsessebe welcomed me as a friend and left me as a dear friend. Honest, professional and caring: these are the words that describe Chico and his family. I feel blessed by God to have had the experience of hunting with Chico and would not hesitate to hunt with him again nor would I recommend anyone to do the same.

John Dull II
Lincoln, California, USA

chico & sons

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AFRICA AWAITS YOU

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AFRICA AWAITS YOU

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