Beginner Guide to Booking Your Perfect Safari
Going on a safari is a thrilling experience that allows you to observe wildlife in their natural habitat, explore new landscapes, and connect with nature. If it’s your first time, planning a safari can seem daunting, but with the right guidance and preparation, it can be a straightforward process.
In this beginner's guide, we'll answer some frequently asked questions about booking a safari.
What's the best time of year to go on a safari?
The best time to go on a safari largely depends on the country and the specific wildlife you want to see. In general, the dry season is the best time for game viewing as animals congregate around water sources. However, some parks are better to visit during the wet season when there's an abundance of lush vegetation and migratory birds.
If you have set dates available to travel within then you’ll need to find which country is the best for that time. If you don’t have specific dates then you’ll need to pick a country or think of which wildlife you’d most like to see.
For example, if you want to see the Great Wildebeest Migration and be in with the best chance of seeing the iconic moment when they cross the river then you’ll want to be booking your safari to Kenya between July and October when they are in the country.
Can you book a safari yourself?
Yes, it's possible to book a safari yourself, especially if you're tech-savvy and have enough time to do research. Many safari lodges and camps have websites where you can book your accommodation, but it's advisable to book through a reputable tour operator who can arrange all the logistics, including park fees, transfers, and game drives.
Travel agents and operators can also advise you and may have recommendations and suggestions that you hadn’t even thought about. They book safaris day in and day out so are best placed to ensure you have a trip of a lifetime.
They are also on hand while you’re travelling so if you have a flight delay or something doesn’t go to plan then they will look after and rearrange what they can so that you don’t have to worry.
How much does it cost to go on a safari?
The cost of a safari varies depending on the country, the level of luxury, the time of year, and the length of the trip. In general, a budget safari in East Africa can cost between £150 to £250 per person per day, while a luxury safari can cost upwards of £1,000 per person per day. In Southern Africa, a budget safari can cost between £100 to £200 per person per day, while a luxury safari can cost upwards of £1,500 per person per day.
If you’re looking at a lower end budget then countries such as Namibia and South Africa are a good option where you can enjoy other activities and just do a few days of safari to keep the costs down.
How far in advance do you need to book a safari?
It's advisable to book your safari at least six months in advance, especially during the high season when accommodation and flights can be fully booked. However a year to 18 months is ideal if you can so that you can get your first choice of accommodation and at the early booking rates.
Some safari lodges and camps require a deposit to secure your booking, while others require full payment upfront.
How long should you go on safari for?
The duration of your safari largely depends on your budget and the number of parks you want to visit. A minimum of three to four days is recommended, but for a comprehensive safari experience, a week is better.
The key is not to rush around ticking off places from the list. You will get a lot more from spending 5 days in 1 great National Park then 1 day in 5. Usually, i recommend doing 3 nights in 2 parks and then a beach stay as a general rule of thumb.
How do you pick where to go on safari?
Picking a safari destination largely depends on the type of wildlife you want to see and the experience you're looking for. East Africa is famous for the Great Migration, which occurs between July and September, while Southern Africa is known for its diversity of wildlife, including the Big Five. It's advisable to do your research and consult a reputable tour operator who can advise you on the best destinations based on your interests and budget.
Which country is the best for a wildlife safari?
There's no one-size-fits-all answer to this question as each country offers a unique wildlife experience. East Africa, specifically Kenya and Tanzania, is famous for the Great Migration, while Uganda and Rwanda are known for their gorilla trekking experiences. In Southern Africa, South Africa, Botswana, and Zimbabwe offer some of the best game viewing opportunities.
In conclusion, booking a safari is an exciting adventure that requires careful planning and research. If you have the time and know how to book yourself consider the best time of year to go, cost, duration, and which wildlife you particularly want to see. However, if you’re not looking for a challenge then find a safari specialist or get in touch on the contact page and we can help you arrange your perfect trip.