Safari in africa, a possible dream

Safari, a word that has acquired a rather derogatory connotation over time. One immediately imagines a group of wealthy tourists dressed as “hunters” looking for a new trophy for their country house. Fortunately for travelers, it is possible to enjoy a real safari at an affordable price while respecting Africa’s fauna and flora.

Let’s go to Africa!

The evolution of the African safari

The word “safari” comes from the Swahili word meaning “journey.” While a safari was once an opportunity for wealthy Westerners to decorate their living rooms, it now offers a unique chance to discover Africa in an eco-responsible way. Travel agencies are much more aware of the fragility of the African ecosystem and offer observation-oriented expeditions. Nowadays, the term safari is most often used to describe tourist stays in national parks in East Africa (Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania) or Southern Africa (Zambia, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Namibia, Botswana, South Africa) for a photo safari.

Why are safaris still relatively expensive?
Animal reserves are generally located far from major centers and often require long hours on difficult roads. Specially adapted 4×4 vehicles are necessary, and they are expensive to maintain. Entrance fees to the reserves are quite high (around US$80). Additionally, as it’s best to stay inside the parks and bring all necessary equipment (water, food, gasoline, etc.), accommodation can be costly. Expect to pay at least €2,000 (US$3,000) for a ten-day safari.

Five tips for a successful safari

Organize your safari before leaving

A successful safari in Africa depends on careful planning. The best strategy is to split your trip into two or three segments, combining different activities. This will also give you the chance to meet Africans, who, despite many challenges, have a perspective on life that can deeply inspire anyone who takes the time to connect with them.

After spending days tracking down the Big Five in national parks, the more adventurous travelers might want to climb Kilimanjaro, relax on the beaches of Zanzibar, or engage in solidarity tourism.

Because Africa is much more than just a trip – it’s an adventure that stirs your imagination.

Travel during the right season

Generally, traveling in the dry season (from July to late September, and from November to February in northern and central parks) is easier. This is when animals are most often spotted near waterholes and rivers, and the vegetation is less dense, making observation easier. However, this season overlaps with the peak tourist season, so lodges and camps are often crowded, and prices are at their highest. Note: Some lodges and campsites, particularly in the Selous Game Reserve and the Western Parks, close for about a month around April-May.

For birdwatching, all seasons are favorable, though the rainy season (October-November and April-June) is often best for this. For a hiking safari, the dry season is ideal.

Find reliable transportation

Weather conditions can change drastically during the “hunt” for the Big Five. The term refers to the five most dangerous animals to hunt: the lion, rhinoceros, leopard, buffalo, and elephant.

In the Serengeti, which is Africa’s second-largest wildlife park with four million animals, the great migration takes place between July and September. During this time, millions of wildebeest cross the crocodile-infested Mara River, only to face lions and leopards waiting in the savannah.

Since roads can be flooded during heavy rains, having a reliable 4×4 vehicle is crucial. Ensure your vehicle and guide are experienced. A skilled guide knows the parks well, can track animals, and positions the jeep for the best photo opportunities. Your safari’s success largely depends on your guide’s expertise.

To ensure you get a good guide, ask your travel agent many questions. Are they familiar with Africa and safari logistics? Who is their local partner? What is the training and experience level of your driver-guide?

Choose the right accommodation

There are options for all budgets when it comes to safari accommodations. As animals live in the parks far from cities, it’s smart to stay there too. You can choose from nomadic tents, luxury campsites, or lodges.

For adventurers, basic tents offer minimal comfort but excellent value. You’ll sleep on the ground in igloo tents with basic sanitary facilities. The experience of falling asleep to the sounds of nearby wildlife is unforgettable.

Luxury camping provides larger, permanent tents with beds, bathrooms, and private showers, combining adventure with comfort.

For those seeking more luxury, lodges offer traditional architecture, pools, and high-end restaurants. These lodges, located at the entrance of the reserves, are convenient rest stops between parks.

Choose your animals and regions carefully

The goal of a safari is often to see the Big Five. However, there’s no guarantee you’ll see all the animals. African parks can be enormous (the Serengeti is the size of Belgium!), and wildlife doesn’t follow borders. For a first adventure, the Masai Mara in Kenya, the Ngorongoro Crater in Tanzania, and Kruger National Park in South Africa are recommended due to their abundant wildlife. However, these parks can be crowded.

To avoid the crowds, consider lesser-known spots like Samburu Park in Kenya, Tarangire in Tanzania, or Moremi Reserve in Botswana. Another extraordinary sight is the annual migration of hundreds of thousands of wildebeest between Kenya and Tanzania. Special “migration safaris” are organized by nature agencies during specific times of the year.

For a truly unique experience, seeing gorillas in the wild in Uganda’s Bwindi Park or Rwanda is one of the most incredible encounters you can have.

Now you’re ready for an African safari adventure! While waiting for your big trip, explore other destinations on our travel blog!