5 Things You Should Know Before Taking on an African Safari

Ready to embark on the adventure of a lifetime? Get the inside scoop on planning an African Safari, with these 5 must-know tips before heading out into the wild!
December 21, 2022

1. How much does it cost?

It is important to note that the cost of an African Safari can vary greatly depending on the type of Safari you are looking for, as well as how long you plan on staying. In general, a Safari of two to three weeks can range anywhere from $2,000 to $10,000 per person, which includes accommodation, transport, and meals. It is possible to find more affordable Safari packages, however, it is important to keep in mind that some of these packages may come with different levels of quality or services. Don’t forget to plan ahead and factor in the cost of purchasing travel insurance, immunizations, and visas as well. With the right planning and preparations, an African Safari adventure can be an incredibly rewarding experience.

How much money should you take?

Taking on an African Safari requires careful financial planning. Depending on the length of your trip and the type of activities you plan to do, you should budget for at least $50 per day plus additional costs for park entrance fees and other attractions. However, many safari trips can cost up to several thousand dollars depending on the included amenities, such as game drives, camps, and meals. Remember to also include any hidden costs, such as shopping for souvenirs, as well as any unexpected expenses that may arise. Having a generous budget will give you peace of mind and allow you to truly enjoy the African Safari experience. Additionally, when planning your budget, it is worth considering whether you would prefer to pay for a guided tour operator or hired car, or book all the necessary arrangements yourself to save money on the overall cost.

How much does an average 10-day trip to Kenya cost?

A typical 10-day safari in Kenya usually costs somewhere between $2,000 and $6,000 USD. This cost may include essentials such as park fees, transportation to and from the airport and within the park, meals, and accommodation but may not include optional extras like souvenir shopping. When planning your budget, remember to factor in any additional costs that you may have to pay along the way. If you choose to book your African Safari trip with a tour operator, it is worth researching the best value for the money. Make sure that the package includes the amenities and services you are looking for, and that the price you are paying is reflective of what you are getting. Additionally, it is important to read all the reviews and check out any additional information on the tour operator. This ensures that you’re getting the best experience possible and maximizing the value of your money.

2. What is the safest country for an African safari?

The safest countries for African safari include Kenya, Tanzania, South Africa, Botswana and Namibia. These countries are well-developed and have the infrastructure and safety measures in place to ensure your trip is as safe and enjoyable as possible. Each country offers unique experiences so it is worth researching each one in detail to ensure that you’re going to the location that best suits your needs. Many safari camps have professional game rangers on private game reserves and guides who are trained to ensure the safety of visitors at all times. Another factor to consider when deciding if an African safari is safe is the quality and condition of the vehicles used for game drives. Many safari companies use reliable 4x4s and off-road vehicles that are able to handle any terrain and provide a comfortable ride.

While an African safari can be an amazing experience, it is important to be aware of the rules and regulations that are in place to keep visitors safe. It is not advised to leave the game vehicle at any time during a game drive, as this could put you and others in danger. You should also avoid wearing bright colors when out on a game drive or walking tour, as most animals may view dark colors as a form of camouflage. Additionally, it is important to respect the environment and follow the safety rules and advice given by your guides when out on the safari.

3. Which African country is best for safaris?

Each African country has its own unique wonders and attractions for a safari adventure. In Kenya, the Masai Mara national reserve is a truly incredible destination and Tanzania boasts of the Serengeti national park, Ngorongoro Crater, and Mount Kilimanjaro. Both countries have some of the most remarkable wildlife viewing opportunities on the continent, from the Big Five mammals to a large variety of bird species – so ultimately it would come down to personal preference. It is also important to consider the specific wildlife that each country offers and which season is best for your wildlife viewing needs, as some species are seasonal or only found in certain parts of the continent.

Ultimately, the choice of African country for a safari ultimately depends on what you are looking for. From the bucket list of countless safari goers, the South Luangwa National Park in Zambia is an excellent destination for those looking for a truly wild experience in one of Africa’s last remaining wildernesses, while Botswana’s Okavango Delta offers a unique water experience with its network of lagoons, floodplains, and forests. Zimbabwe’s Hwange National Park is a great option. Boasting the ‘big five’ mammals (elephant, lion, leopard, buffalo and rhino) as well as a large population of wild dogs, it is also home to an annual mass wildebeest migration – something that is not seen in any other African Safari. Furthermore, the park boasts some of the most untouched and undisturbed natural landscapes on the continent, with a variety of habitats ranging from woodlands to grasslands.

4. How long should you go on an African Safari

If you’re looking to maximize your wildlife sightings or want to explore the continent more comprehensively, it’s best to plan for a longer trip. After all, many African safaris involve long drives between game parks, and given the sheer size of the continent, you may need additional time to get from one destination to another. Depending on your budget, you may choose to stay in a tented camp or luxury lodge but bear in mind that these accommodations can add a significant expense to your expenditure. It’s also important to factor in the cost of travel insurance when planning your African Safari adventure. A typical wildlife viewing safari usually lasts for about three to four days, allowing you plenty of time to explore the continent’s most fascinating game parks and stunning natural landscapes. If you have a bit more time, say seven to ten days, then you can opt for a comprehensive safari experience by combining wildlife viewing with cultural excursions and outdoor activities such as kayaking, hiking, and rock climbing. This way, you’ll not only get to see the wildlife up close but also get a unique chance to immerse yourself in some of the continent’s customs and traditions.

5. When is the best time to go on a safari?

Generally speaking, the best African safaris are between May and October when temperatures are cooler and the animals are in their prime. However, many safaris in East Africa are best enjoyed between November and April while those in South Africa and Botswana can be taken any time of the year. No matter when you decide to go, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience as you explore Africa’s majestic wildlife and stunning landscapes. Ultimately when deciding the best time to go on an African Safari, you should consider when you want to view the Great Migration. This is when millions of animals, including zebras and wildebeest, migrate from one destination to another in search of food and water, and it’s definitely one of the most spectacular sights that the continent has to offer. Plus, planning your African Safari around this time of year will also make for more ideal wildlife viewing conditions. Not only that, weather conditions and the availability of the parks and lodges can also influence when you should visit. For example, some parks in East Africa such as the Serengeti and the Masai Mara are most conveniently accessible between November and April, whereas some parks in the south such as Kruger National Park and Etosha National Park can be enjoyed any time of the year. If you’re ready to book your adventure, contact us and start planning today!

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