Trip Planning 101
Pathway to your first Safari
A safari in Africa is one of the most thrilling and memorable travel experiences you can have. Whether you’re envisioning roaming the savannahs of Kenya, trekking through South Africa’s game reserves, or exploring the wilderness of Tanzania, this FAQ provides everything you need to know to plan your dream safari!
Is Africa a safe place to travel?
Two words – Most Definitely!
Let’s elaborate.
First off, we are referring to the African Safari-oriented countries. This is generally Kenya southwards to South Africa. Traveling to these countries usually means arriving in the larger metropolis such as Nairobi, Joburg or Lusaka before transferring to your safari destination.
The Safari destinations themselves are safe and secure. However, exploring a little bit of the city & country of your travel beyond going on Safari is a must do and is as safe as you make it out to be. What does this mean? Just like any other country, there are pockets travelers should stay away from especially in the larger cities, avoid driving alone especially at night, avoid walking alone in areas prone to criminal activity, hire a reputable car/driver to show you around and avoid going out wearing expensive accessories that stand out. As a complementary example, New York City is an amazing travel destination. One is able to experience the sights and sounds of this great city by taking some common sense precautions. The same applies when traveling to Africa.
In summary, traveling to Africa is synonymous with realizing a dream come true! It has a rich history of culture, fantastic ‘out of this world’ Safari experiences and amazing sights, sounds and cuisine.
Go on and explore this magical land!
What are some of the popular African Safari Destinations?
African Safari Landscape
Kenya
- Maasai Mara and related Conservancies
- Amboseli, Tsavo region
- Conservancies in the Laikipia region around Mt. Kenya such as Lewa, Ol Pejeta, Segera, Mugie, etc.
Tanzania
- Serengeti National Park & surrounding Reserves such as Singita or Maswa
- Ruaha National Park
- Ngorongoro Conservation Area including Tarangire, Lake Manyara
- Mahale National Park
Zambia
- South Luangwa National Park
- Lower Zambezi National Park
- Kafue National Park
Zimbabwe
- Hwange National Park
- Mana Pools National Park
- Gonarezhou National Park
Botswana
- Chobe National Park
- Okavango Delta and the many concessions that make up this and the surrounding areas
- Makgadikgadi Pans National Park and surrounding areas
Namibia
- Etosha and surrounding Reserves such as Ongava and Onguma
- Skeleton Coast National Park and surrounding Conservancies
South Africa
- Kruger National Park and surrounding Reserves
- Many other Reserves such as Madikwe, Phinda, Kwandwe, Samara, etc.
Guided Safari or Self-Drive - What should I opt for?
Guided Safari
With a guided safari, you are accompanied by a professional guide who has extensive knowledge of the wildlife, terrain, and ecosystems. They can help you spot animals you might otherwise miss and offer insightful commentary on the behavior and conservation of wildlife. Guided safaris typically include a full package, with all logistics taken care of, including transportation, accommodations, meals, and activities. This allows you to focus entirely on the experience without worrying about the details. any guided safaris can be tailored to your interests—whether you're keen on big cats, birdwatching, or photography. The guide can adjust the experience to match your preferences.
Self-Drive
A self-drive safari gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace. You decide where to go, how long to stay in each spot, and when to stop for wildlife sightings or photography. It’s ideal for those who enjoy a more independent and flexible experience. While self-drive safaris typically involve rental costs for vehicles, park fees, and accommodations, they can be a more affordable option for those looking for a budget-friendly adventure. You may also have more control over your daily expenses.
Ultimately, the choice between a guided and self-drive safari depends on your preferences for independence versus expert guidance, the type of experience you seek, and the level of comfort and adventure you’re looking for. Both offer unforgettable experiences, but each has its own unique appeal!
What should I consider when booking international flights to Africa?
Most African safari destinations are accessible via major international gateway cities, including Nairobi (Kenya), Kilimanjaro (Tanzania), Lusaka (Zambia), and Johannesburg (South Africa). These cities serve as key entry points to some of the continent’s most iconic wildlife regions. Your specific safari itinerary will determine which cities you will fly into and out of, as each destination offers unique access to nearby national parks, reserves, and lodges.
It is important to understand which airlines service your destination, as this can affect your travel duration, cost, and overall experience. To find this information, you can visit the international airport Wikipedia pages of each gateway city, which typically list the airlines that operate flights to and from that airport. When planning your trip, some of the factors to consider are travel duration, cost, baggage allowances and frequent flyer miles and airline alliances.
What are the options for inter-country & intra-country flights?
Many travelers have questions on traveling within the continent (Inter) or within a particular country (Intra).
Inter-Country flights
There are likely going to be instances where you combine visits across countries. As an example, you could very easily combine a Safari excursion to South Africa with a visit to Victoria Falls, Botswana or Namibia, or combine Kenya and Tanzania.
Some options below:
- Southern Africa – South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, Zimbabwe and Zambia
Without a second thought, we recommend Airlink. It is a very well-regarded airline noted for having one of the best on time performances in all of Africa along with the best network in the region. The cost may be nominally higher than other low-cost carriers such as FlySafair but the peace of mind far outweighs the cost.
Fastjet is a Zimbabwean airline offering nonstop connectivity from Johannesburg to Victoria Falls and is a great alternative to Airlink.
Proflight is a Zambian airline offering flights to Lusaka from South Africa. - East Africa – Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda
Safarilink and Airkenya Express are good options for trips between Kenya and Tanzania. Both fly out of Nairobi Wilson airport offering expedited services to Tanzania including Kilimanjaro Airport (JRO). Kenya Airways is great for Uganda and Rwanda as is Air Tanzania.
Intra-Country & “Bush flights”
“Bush flights” or Charter flights is a term referencing light plane transfers to safari destinations. These flights and transfers to the respective hangars will be organized and booked by your Travel Agent.
- South Africa
Airlink offers very good connectivity across South Africa including to certain Safari destinations around Kruger National Park and Phinda Private Game Reserve.
Most bush flights are operated by FedAir. The Fed Air check-in counter is located directly behind the IHG hotel across from the O.R. Tambo airport arrivals hall in Johannesburg. FedAir operates a shuttle service to their hangar and offers a lounge while waiting for your bush flight.
Fireblade Aviation is the exclusive operator providing air service to Tswalu Kalahari Reserve and operates flights from O.R. Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg Angel Gabriel is the exclusive operator providing air service to the Mashatu Game Reserve in Botswana via the Limpopo Valley Airfield and to the Marataba concession in the Marakele National Park. Angel Gabriel operates from the Lanseria airport in Johannesburg. - Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe
Some safari operators like Wilderness Safaris operate their own air service while other safari operators contract out to shared charter services like Mack Air in Botswana. It’s also possible to book a private charter especially in Namibia with the cost not being significantly from a shared charter flight. Additionally, Airlink offers great morning flights from Johannesburg to all 3 countries such that you can transfer onwards to your safari destination in time for your first afternoon game drive without the need to overnight in the arrival city. - Zambia
ProFlight is the best choice for inter country and safari destination transfers upon arrival into Lusaka. Direct transfers between Lower Zambezi National Park and South Luangwa National Park operate only on certain days, therefore we highly recommend inquiring with your travel agent to confirm to minimize travel time. On days that don’t offer direct transfers, your flight will make a stop in Lusaka taking much longer to get to your destination. With this routing, there is a significant likelihood of missing your first game drive on the day of arrival to your destination. - Tanzania
Coastal Aviation is the best choice for safari destination transfers and select inter country flights (alongside Air Tanzania). Most safari travelers will arrive into Kilimanjaro Airport or Dar es Salam airport with onward transfer to your safari destination. - Kenya
Safarilink and AirKenya Express are the primary choices for safari destination transfers from their home base at Nairobi Wilson Airport. The national carrier, Kenya Airways, along with several low-cost airlines provide very good inter country flights.
Summary
There is a wide range of inter- and intra-country flight offerings available across Africa, providing travelers with multiple options for getting to their safari destinations. Understanding these flight options is key to optimizing your travel experience, as it allows you to engage in informed and constructive discussions with your travel agent.
What are the Top 10 things every traveler should consider?
For first-time safari enthusiasts, planning the perfect safari can be an exciting yet overwhelming experience due to the sheer amount of information to consider. Let’s break down the Top 10 things to consider when preparing for an African safari:
When to travel
- For the best experience overall, we recommend skipping the peak travel season of Jun - Sept whenever possible. This may come across as contradictory based on what you read on the different forums or hear from your travel agent. Hear us out to understand the "why".
- We suggest timing your trip just as the season is transitioning into or out of peak - usually this is the month of May, preferably towards the end of May. A second alternative is at the end of peak - usually this commences towards the end of Sept.
- Animals don't schedule their movements based on the season definitions. You will have great opportunities to spot amazing wildlife, enjoy the cooler weather and experience less crowds leading to a more exclusive and authentic experience. It is also possible to catch the Great Migration heading south back into Tanzania going into Oct / early Nov. In fact, the sightings of the “return” migration tend to be more exclusive as we have experienced.
- Oct – Apr tends to be the rainy period where many camps in the more rugged areas are closed due to flooding, mosquitoes, tsetse flies, etc. However, there are great opportunities in select destinations that offer overall value.
Type of travel
- Ask yourself if you want to experience an African Safari at its best by way of a fully immersive luxury lodging - expansive suites, full suite of creature comforts, amazing culinary delights and exclusivity or perhaps more cost conscious accommodation options while still experiencing the same wildlife traversing areas. It is critical to narrow down the options based on your budget.
Who's traveling
- Are you traveling alone? As a couple? Or perhaps with family?
- Many lodges apply a single occupancy surcharge while others require reserving a family room for more than 2 occupants while still others only allow children over a certain age - usually 8yrs and older.
Destination selection
- Revisiting our Safari Destinations section will highlight the many options available. We are more than happy to engage in conversations to lay out a plan that aligns with your expectations.
Ideal travel duration
- We recommend giving yourself at least 9-11 nights excluding travel for your 1st Safari journey. Of course, feel free to add more days. After all, you are traveling to Africa!
- We recommend visiting at minimum 2 Safari destinations allowing yourself 3 nights at each to have a more immersive experience. Spending 3 nights gives you approx. 6 game drives per destination providing ample opportunities to observe and witness different animal behaviors and interactions alongside taking full advantage to enjoy the lodge experience. Add in more color by including a beach visit (Kenya/Tanzania) or CapeTown (South Africa) as an example along with a day to explore either Nairobi or Johannesburg.
What do you want to see
Seeing the Big 5 (Lion, Leopard, Rhino, Elephant, Buffalo) or witnessing the Great Migration of East Africa are usually "top of the list" items.
- If your heart is set on witnessing the famous Mara River crossings as part of the Great Migration, your 2 primary travel seasons are July – Sept as the herds travel north into Kenya or early November as the herds return to Tanzania.
- The Big 5 can be spotted at practically all safari destinations with Rhino being an exception due to poaching constraints. We should reiterate, animals move around, often crossing across Conservancies where your lodge may not have traversing rights, limiting your ability to spot. Thus, giving yourself the 3 nights gives you the 6 game drives to take full advantage of the opportunities to spot as many of the animals that reside in that habitat or move in/out.
Travel insurance
- Purchasing travel insurance is highly recommended and often required that not only include the standard items around airfare and trip cancellation but also should include medical insurance that covers evacuation from camp due to medical emergencies and hospitalization.
Health and safety
- Vaccinations are common requirements for safari destinations. Check with your doctor or travel clinic for recommendations based on your specific safari itinerary.
Budget
- Prices vary significantly to experience the authenticity of an African safari.
- As an example, prices can range from $500 - upwards of $3000 pppn during peak travel season. "pppn" is a widely used term that stands for per person per night. The higher price range is aimed at ultra-luxury accommodations, while the lower end offers budget-friendly options, with mid-tier choices falling in between.
- Shoulder and off-peak pricing can be significantly lower if these months align with your travel period. This travel period offers greater maneuverability to stay within your budget while experiencing some of the best an African Safari has to offer.
- Tips: $25/pppn is considered the norm although it depends entirely on you based on the service you received from the staff, including your guide.
What to bring with you
- We should start by noting bush flights restrict baggage to 20kg per person which includes hand carry. Thus, pack wisely! This is not a lot considering the cameras that some may carry which is why we recommend choosing lodges that include laundry at no additional cost.
- Pack your luggage into a duffel bag or equivalent vs a suitcase. Bush flights have significantly smaller cargo holds. Read the dimensions and rules on baggage on your bush flight operators’ website.
- Clothing that is neutral in color is generally better. Alongside, and very important, is to bring layers especially if travelling during the colder months. Game vehicles are open where you will be surprised at how cold it gets early in the morning and late evening. Layers allow you to put them on or take them off as needed.
- Clothing that is lighter is also preferred given the weight restrictions. As an example, carrying 2 pairs of jeans will take up weight. This is not to say you can't wear jeans on safari.
- Dinner at some of the more luxury lodges is often a culinary experience with a 5 or even 7 course. However, the dress code is not formal although you are welcome to change into something nice from the full day dusty safari wear.
- Lastly, carrying a pair of binoculars & a decent camera is recommended – some lodge operators such as Great Plains provide binoculars and a Canon camera for use.
What are the Top 5 Things To Do on a Safari?
Activities
- There are many activities beyond going on the twice a day game drive.
- We suggest going on a bush walk to experience the African wilderness on foot. It’s a vastly different experience than being in the vehicle. We also suggest experiencing boat rides (if on offer), hot air ballooning (we suggest Maasai Mara and Namibia out of all the places), bush meals (an amazing experience!) amongst others. The lodge may offer additional activities such as spa services and relaxing at the pool overlooking the watering hole or even a hide allowing you to get up close and personal to the wildlife that visits the watering hole at eye level.
Immerse yourself in the experience
- Going on Safari is not a race to post pictures on Instagram we say!
- Savor the moments in the African bush. Take a moment to relax and wind down. Time ceases to exist. This is the beauty of the wilderness. There is no rush, no plane to catch. Enjoy a sundowner while watching the sun go down over the African wilderness with calls of nature in the background. Enjoy relaxing at the lodge and striking up a conversation with other guests and lodge staff. Many are local to the area and share amazing stories.
- Patience is paramount especially at sightings where a predator is stalking its prey. Getting impatient waiting on a lion to make a kill is not wise as an example. It may happen or it may not. You are there watching the action in real time as it unfolds in its most natural state. Take a moment to observe & understand the animal behavior.
- Take pictures, lots of them. This is your moment to relive your experiences on a different day. If you are a keen photographer, consider a photographic safari that focuses on capturing the beauty and tranquility of the African wilderness in its raw state. Many camps and lodges offer a photography vehicle that allows one to lay flat at eye level.
More than the "Big 5"
- The “Big 5” are important, yes. However, take a moment to step away from the "Big 5" and look for all the animals and birds that call that habitat home. Look at the natural environment around; how is everyone and everything coexisting.
- We recommend reading about the "Little 5" and "Nocturnal 7". Look out for some of these amazing animals - whether on bush walk or on game drive.
- In summary, there is so much to see and experience!
Take advantage of your Guide's expertise
- One of the main advantages of a guided safari are the guides. Most, if not all, are certified and rated through a professional guide certification system or by the lodge operators. The guides generally possess a deep understanding of the resident wildlife and ecosystem, excellent animal identification & spotting skills, a passion for sharing their knowledge with guests along with a commitment to conservation.
- Your guide will likely ask you, on arrival, what your expectations are and make every attempt to tailor your experience accordingly.
- We highly recommend interacting with your guide as much as possible and leveraging his/her experience. The guide is the person you will be spending the most time with.
Stay hydrated and "sun aware"
- An important but often overlooked. Most lodges will provide water bottles on arrival and carry water and drinks for stops in the bush.
- Additionally, even during the cooler winter months, the sun will be shining brightly during the day. We highly recommend wearing loose long sleeve clothing and applying sun lotion to remain "sun aware". Additionally, most lodges have insect repellent sprays in the room and it is likely your guide will have one in the vehicle for use.
What is a Typical Day on an African Safari?
- Your guide will give you a wake-up call between 5 and 6am. Since it’s usually still dark outside at this time, your guide will escort you from your accommodation to the main lounge area.
- Breakfast is served. Some camps offer a basic setup with coffee/tea and biscuits while others offer full service.
- Game drive departure soon thereafter. If your wake up call is at 5am, you will likely head out on game drive between 530am and 6am.
- Game drives generally last between 3 – 4hrs interspersed with a stop for coffee and snacks.
- Post morning game drive, it’s time to return to camp for a full breakfast or a breakfast in the bush!
- After breakfast, guests can head out on a guided bushwalk or have the time to themselves to enjoy the camp – relax by the camp pool or your suite plunge pool, take in nature and the sounds lounging in your suite deck or explore the camp and strike up a conversation with the staff or your fellow guests.
- Lunch is generally served between 12 and 2pm. Many camps offer a sumptuous 3 course menu and cater to all dietary requirements noted at the time of booking.
- More rest and relaxation time after lunch to approx. 3pm to commence the afternoon game drive where it’s possible to take in more of the sights and sounds around camps, a visit to the spa or an amazing siesta lounging in your suite.
- 3pm denotes time for high tea followed by departure on your afternoon game drive that runs for 3-3.5 hrs. with a return usually between 630-7pm.
- Many guests go straight to dinner on return while some might want to freshen up. Dinner is served as a full 5 or even 7 course meal and is done differently each night. The First night might be where lunch was served, the second night might be “boma night” – an outdoor wooden enclosure with a center firepit and live stations serving up a wide variety of food while the final night could be a wonderful bush dinner where the camp organizes a special dinner either for individual guests or the camp as a whole in the African bush.
- Before you know it, it’s time for bed repeating the schedule the next day.
A few things to note
- The wake up call depends on the season – during winter, it’s usually 530-6am while in summer it’s usually around 5am given the early sunrise. Additionally, if you have your own private vehicle, you determine the time with your guide.
- The purpose of an early wake call is to see the sunrise while on game drive which is a sight to behold plus there’s a greater opportunity to spot wildlife on the move before the day gets warm where things quiet down as animals take to the shade.
- A few Safari Operators offer greater flexibility on game drive start time and duration. They are even willing to send lunch to where you might be vs having you return to camp ensuring you have the opportunity to observe animal behavior such as a predator hunt. On other hand, many camps and destinations follow established timings. Lastly, being on a shared vehicle means the guide must be aware of every guest’s needs vs being on a private vehicle which could mean game drive start / end times could vary.
- All camps offer flexibility for guests wanting to stay back at camp to relax. It’s as simple as letting your guide know the evening before.
Game drive vehicles - What I should know?
Many safari travelers are oblivious to the game drive vehicles in terms of seating arrangements offered by the various camps and lodges and the distinction between shared and private offerings. Safari travelers will be spending more than 6-8 hours per day in a game drive vehicle. After all, isn’t this the reason that one goes on Safari – to go out on game drives and spot amazing wildlife?
- Safari vehicles are generally customized Toyota Landcruisers in most cases equipped with 3 rows of seats with the last row extending out of the vehicle (for these seeking a bumpier game drive opt for the 3rd row). The seating is held in place by heavy duty metal tubes.
- The vehicles are designed to have storage below the 3rd row and a slide out “table” for game drive snack stops in the front.
- With no doors, entering and exiting the vehicle is done via step holds above the rear wheels and sides. Yes, it’s important to be careful not to inadvertently injure yourself.
- The default setup at many camps is to not have a roof although adding one is possible. With the effort to put one in, it’s not possible or a good idea to switch during the day. Many guides ask, as they pick up guests, if they would like the vehicle to be open or covered. In the rare chance this topic doesn’t come up, guests are encouraged to advise the guide of their preference. There are advantages and disadvantages to both options. Traveling during the hot summer months could mean a roof is beneficial while in the cooler months no roof means you are that much closer to nature! Traveling during the hot summer months could mean a roof is beneficial as an example. Lastly, it’s possible having the roof on means additional metal vertical tubes which could detract from the “open” experience. Keep in mind that several destinations such as Maasai Mara in Kenya operate with roofs on in most cases as the default.
- Ensuring vehicles are well maintained is important to not have intrusive squeaky sounds that interfere with the sighting or are not too bumpy (especially for those seated in the 3rd row). Being on game drive on shared traversing areas (think Sabi Sands Game Reserve or Madikwe Game Reserve), the differences in vehicle across the lodges is easily noted. Generally speaking, the “better” vehicles are operated by the more luxurious camps.
Seating arrangement - What you should be aware of
- Seating arrangement varies from 2 seats per row with the center area being open for storage (personal belongings, cameras, etc.) or 3 seats per row in a bench seating configuration.
- Camps tilted towards the luxury segment generally operate vehicles with 2 rows of seats while budget friendly camps lean towards vehicles with 3 rows of seats.
- Camps vary the seating arrangement to a max of 6 guests on a shared vehicle to as many as 9 guests, which can get rather tight and uncomfortable very quickly.
- Camps that limit to 6 guests per vehicle allow for ample storage space and ensure all guests are afforded a “window” seat.
Shared vs Private - What does this mean?
- Shared – This is the default when booking a stay at any camp. On arrival, you will be paired with the guide that picks you up at the airstrip and other guests that the camp deems a suitable fit based on information provided to them during the booking process. Usually this is not an issue as the camps do a great job with the pairing. In rare cases, if the fit is not right, guests can have a chat with camp management to look at changing – may or may not be feasible depending on how full the camp is during your stay. For transparency, it’s important to note that traveling in off peak months tends to provide greater opportunities that there will be far less than the maximum number of guests on the vehicle. It’s also possible that you may end up having the vehicle and guide to yourself!
- Private – During the booking process, guests can request their travel agent to book a private vehicle for the duration of your stay. There is added cost to this ranging from $50/day – $200/day for a private vehicle. It’s also based on availability during your stay thus it’s not a “done deal” by simply requesting.
- Advantages/Disadvantages – Advantages of a shared vehicle are the ability to strike up a conversation with like-minded travelers and having more “eyes” to spot potential wildlife. Disadvantages are that the guide must be receptive to everyone’s wishes which may or may not match yours especially with game drive start / end times, how long you stay at one sighting, sundowner stops, etc. The advantages of private vehicles are that everything is under your control. The guide is fully at your disposal. The disadvantage is the added cost.