How to Plan an African Wildlife Safari
Planning a wildlife trip to Africa encompasses thorough planning to chalk out the best possible itinerary to make the most experience. A wildlife safari tour in Africa envelopes more than just one country. The southern and eastern parts of Africa boast the best wildlife and travel aficionados flock to these countries to witness and admire the wide variety of wildlife species. An impeccable planning is crucial to board on a trip to an African wildlife tour. There are certain facts that are necessary to consider while planning the trip. Expert hints and guides have to be reviewed in order to enjoy an unhindered and flawless safari experience in Africa
Step-by-Step Planning Guide for African Wildlife Safari
STEP 1: Choose a Competent Tour Operator
Choosing a trusted tour operator acts as a foundation stone for a hurdle-free travelling plan. A professional tour operator, with expertise in Africa’s vibrant wildlife, will help to craft the perfect itinerary for an African wildlife tour. Specialised companies in this field collaborate closely with clients to arrange flights to and within Africa. They also coordinate with bush camps to secure accommodations, guides, permits, and visas, handling all logistical aspects of the trip. By bundling these services, they ensure there are no unexpected fees. Indian travellers may find it convenient to opt for operators based in India for smoother communication during the planning process.
STEP 2: Prioritise the Safari Destination
A thorough consultation with the chosen tour operator is followed by the process of selecting the national park in Africa that will be the visiting venue for the trip. Africa is a huge continent and meticulous research is important to ascertain which country/s and national park/s are on your wishlist. For first-timers, choosing 1 or 2 countries in Africa is better. The prominent wildlife destinations in Eastern Africa are Tanzania, Kenya, Rwanda and Uganda. Southern Africa comprises South Africa, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Zambia and Namibia. Both regions in Africa exude different experiences. While South Africa offers an overall experience including cultural experience along with wildlife safaris, Tanzania and Kenya, on the other hand, provide a wonderful essence of wildlife in Serengeti National Park and Masai Mara National Reserve respectively. Make sure to check the travelling route before confirming with the safari location.
STEP 3: Smartly Pick the Best Season to Visit
Choosing the most suitable time to visit Africa can be tricky as the various national parks offer the best experience in different months of the year. For travelers aiming to explore between January and April, venturing on a safari in Tanzania's Serengeti, Kenya's Maasai Mara, and South Africa's Kruger National Park presents optimal choices. If opting for a summer journey from May to September, destinations like Rwanda, Botswana, and Zimbabwe emerge as excellent options. While December's wetter conditions might pose challenges, November's shoulder season remains worthy of consideration. Even though wildlife sightings may not be as abundant in Botswana during November, the dwindling dry season still offers ample opportunities to observe wildlife. Additionally, travelling during shoulder months might yield cost savings without compromising on unique and unforgettable experiences.
STEP 4: Research and Book Accommodations
When planning your safari experience, it's crucial to decide on the level and style of accommodation that best suits your preferences. From adventurous mobile tented camps to luxurious lodges, there's a wide range of comfort levels available. While getting close to nature is often encouraged, ensuring a good night's sleep and overall enjoyment is equally important. Consider factors such as the property's pace, management, ambience, and amenities when choosing between camps and lodges.
STEP 5: Set your Budget
Budget fixing is a challenging task while planning for a wildlife safari in various African countries. While conducting booking or making advance payments make sure to check thoroughly the inclusions and exclusions of the safari package offered by the tour operators. The optimal duration of an African safari lasts for about 7-8 days and the cost per person includes flights, inner transportation, meals, accommodations, safaris and few more.
