7 Way to Ensure an Amazing Safari Experience

There are many factor to consider when you travel to Africa. For most individuals, an African safari is a once-in-a lifetime trip. The range of experiences may vary and this depends on many factors including personal preferences and budget. African safari destinations include Uganda, Tanzania, Kenya, South Africa, etc., among others. This article aims to detail seven ways to ensure that you have an amazing safari experience. 

1. Timing the Safari

It is important to time the safari trip so that you make the most out it in terms of watching wildlife or the scenery or taking photographs. If you are keen on watching wildlife in South Africa, it is best recommended to arrange the safari during the winter (between June and September). This is the time when most of the animals come out into the open to graze or drink from waterholes. Summertime (December to February) is when the vegetation is thick and most animals are lost in the shadows.

2. Choosing the Destination

It is important to decide the safari destination well ahead, whether you want to visit Eastern Africa or Southern Africa. The Kruger National Park in South Africa, the Serengeti National Park in Tanzania and the Masai Mara reserve in Kenya, among others, are home to most African animals. These safari parks offer exceptional game viewing facilities that are bound to give you unforgettable memories. You can also choose to visit private game reserves such as Sabi Sand, Samara Game Reserve, etc.

3. Choosing the Right Safari Operator

Right Safari Operator

Hiring the right safari tour operator may be the best way to make it a worthwhile experience. Experienced tour operators provide comprehensive and flexible packages and you can pick from either budgeted trips or luxury trips. The overall cost of the safari depends on factors such as the number of participants, duration of the trip, mode of transport, etc. Many operators also customize the safari tour according to the needs of the traveler. Personalized luxury safari trips are more expensive than group safari packages. Pre-planned group safaris operate on fixed timings and cover specific destinations. It is recommended to choose a package that offers about 8 hours of driving time and 4 hours of camping time in a day.

4. Using a Guide

It is a good idea to use an experienced guide while on a safari tour. Wandering aimlessly on your own may cause you to miss animal sightings. An experienced guide would know to read animal tracks and lead you to them. Guides are usually a part of the safari package when visiting a private reserve. If not, you may have to hire one separately.

5. Looking Out for All Kinds of Animals

All Kinds of Animals

 Though most safari advertisements talk about the big game such as lions, buffaloes, rhinos and the elephants, make a list of all the animals that you would like to see and try to spot them. Zebras, giraffes, warthogs, impalas are all there for you to see and enjoy. This can make the safari tour more interesting and memorable.

6. Accessories are Important

Ensure that you bring along the right type of clothing. Arm yourself with appropriate boots, hats, gloves, sweaters, clothing, cameras and other accessories according to when you travel. Ensure that you carry a pair of binoculars when on the safari. The reserve lodge or accompanying guides do not provide them. It is also a good idea to carry a map or book that provides details about the local culture and habits.

7. Other Activities on Offer

Choose a safari package that has a variety of activities on offer. As an example, some private reserves have camel rides, off-road driving, night drives, bush walks, etc. Some of them offer specialized programs for keeping the children engaged.

As a final note, the safari is most enjoyable when you pick a comfort level that suits you as well as your pocket.

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