Why it is Important to Plan Your Safari

An African safari is an epic adventure that will take you and your family to all sorts of diverse and exciting places. However, it also necessitates careful planning simply because it will take you out of your comfort zone and it is good to be prepared in all situations.

There are countless safari options tailored to suit even the tightest budget, so it is very important to be clear on what you and your family want before you book your safari adventure. Are you expecting luxury accommodation with air conditioning and extravagant meals where your every whim is catered for or would you rather opt for a more traditional and rustic experience?

The luxury bush experience

The luxury option is not cheap as most upmarket lodges throughout east and southern Africa charge US dollar rates, so even when the local currencies are at all-time lows against the greenback, it makes little difference to the cost of your wild and wonderful sojourn.

Although you will be royally treated and stuffed with gastronomic delights, the cheaper overland or mobile safaris will arguably allow you to experience exactly the same bush adventure but without all the trappings and at a fraction of the cost.

Overland African safaris

The one factor that may not be too appealing when choosing an overland African safari is group travel. Most overland adventures consist of groups of travellers, sometimes up to as many as 20 people, so if you prefer to explore the wide open spaces of Africa with a little more privacy, then the luxury or self drive safari options may be more attractive.

Self drive safaris

The most affordable way of discovery the delights of the African bush is to do a self drive expedition. In the majority of countries it is only the public national parks that cater for self drive holidays and these parks generally have adequate infrastructures, paved roads and clear signage, so getting lost is virtually impossible.

As long as you follow the park’s safety guidelines and do not leave the vehicle unless you are in the overnight camps, the African bush is possibly one of the safer natural environments. Remember, all the animals are wild, treat them as such and there won’t be any problems!

Another big plus of self drive safaris is the flexibility. Time in Africa takes on a whole new meaning and when visiting the bush the last thing anyone needs is pressure. You and your family may choose to spend an entire day watching a troop of baboons or a pride of lions, something that is impossible on luxury and overland safaris as the entire group’s requirements have to be met.

The best time to travel

It is important to ascertain the best time to go on your adventure and although regions will vary slightly, the southern hemisphere winter is dry and is by far the most comfortable for travelling. With the African savannah at its lowest due to lack of rain, it is also the best time for spotting elusive wild life.

Research the safari tour operator

Before you make the final decision and book your safari, research the tour operator very carefully. Ask for references and what tourism bodies they belong to, both in your country and the final destination. Read user reviews on the net and always be familiar with the operator’s cancellation policy.

An African safari will be the highlight of your life but remember to take the relevant precautions for malaria, find out what vaccinations are necessary and make sure you have adequate travel insurance. Then kick back and watch in wonder from the comfort of your vehicle as the timeless bush goes by.