Going on an African safari opens up the wildest imagination for travelers — wildlife, parks, foliage, and more. It’s more than mere excitement. But before you can fly to see the exotica, you need to make some plans. Familiarize yourself with the following tips, and you will be better off toward your next safari in Africa.
Types of Safaris
Your budget and length of stay are vital determinants when deciding which type of safari you can afford. Usually the average cost of each night would be lower if you stay for a longer period, but the total expenditure of your safari will be higher. Also, if you travel alone, you will have to pay more, because most packaging is priced on two persons. Below are three common types of safaris:
1. Luxury Safari: This is the most expensive type of safari. Depending on the level of luxury you choose, its cost may range from several hundred dollars per person, per night to over $1,000. Make sure you quote from a travel agency that is reliable and experienced in safari travel.
2. Self-Drive: This can be one of the cheapest and most flexible ways of going on an African safari. You plan your own itinerary, rent a car, and explore the wildlife all on your own. You have the freedom of choosing whatever tours and accommodations based on your personal budget. If you plan to self-drive without hiring a local guide, however, make sure you plan your itinerary and know the path well. If you are a first-timer, it’s better to find an easy location to get started.
3. Tent Safari: This type of safari provides varying levels of luxury from the very basic mobile tents to five-star fully equipped lodgings. On the luxury side, you may stay in a permanent campsite with toilets and showers. In other cases, you may have to lie on an old mattress with an outdoor latrine. Know your budget and personal preference, and you can make a proper decision.
The Best Season
The best time to go on an African safari is the dry season from June to September (variations in different regions), which fits the region’s winter. During dry seasons, trekking and driving are more convenient. Also, the wildlife gather around sources of water, plus the foliage is less bushy, all of which creating a greater chance of viewing herds of animals for travelers. The drawback, though, is that you will have to pay more during dry seasons.
The Best Locations
The most popular areas of safaris lies in the East and Southern Africa. You will never be lacking of ideas when planning your safari. Below are some suggestions for you.
Kenya is one of the most popular destinations of safaris in Africa. The annual migration in the Masai Mara reserve is a magnificent spectacle for admiring herds of wildlife. Part of the Serengeti National Park is housed in Tanzania. You could also see the well-known annual migration in there.
Botswana is a common destination for luxury safaris. Chobe National Park is a perfect location for viewing wildlife such as elephants. In the Okavango Delta, you gcan see buffalo, zebras, crocodiles, and many more other animals.
Play It Safe
An African safari is exciting experience, but don’t let the excitement drown your sense of safety. It pays to be on the safe side when planning a vacation in a politically unstable region like Africa. Be sure to check out whether travel warning is issued for particular areas when planning your trip. Crime and personal safety are other important concerns. Familiarize yourself with the local customs, and pay attention to your belongings at all times. Make sure you know what you can do when you find you have fallen prey to pickpockets. And don’t forget to buy travel insurance with a coverage protecting you against possible financial loss.
Last but not least, if you are going on safari during the dry season, drink sufficient water to guard yourself against dehydration. Research enough to get more insights, and you will have a happy African safari.
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