While we mostly write about camping safaris, there are several other types of safaris available for travelers to choose from. When I started exploring becoming a tour guide, I was surprised to find out just how many different safari trips are available.
I’ve been a certified tour guide for 7 years and have plenty of experience with safaris. I know exactly what each type entails and what to pack or what sort of equipment you’ll need depending on your interests. I always work closely with my clients to ensure they get the most out of their trip – whether it’s spotting elephants, going on nature walks, or learning about local culture in East Africa.
What is a safari?
A safari is a journey to observe or hunt animals in their natural environment. It can be done on foot, by vehicle, or even by air transport. A typical safari includes guided tours of national parks and game reserves where you will spot wildlife either from the safety of your jeep or platform. In East Africa, hunting of wild animals is prohibited but that’s not the case for Botswana and South Africa.
The word safari originated from the Arabic verb “safar,” meaning “to make a journey.” The noun form of this, “safariya,” refers to a journey. In Swahili, the word safari is simply a synonym of the Arabic version.
5 Factors that Determine the Type of Safari you Can Take:
1. Duration: The duration of your trip is one factor to consider when deciding the type of safari you want to go on. Some safaris involve overnight stays while others just last a few hours or even days. For example, gorilla tracking safaris require a minimum of 3 days while other safaris such as hot air ballooning can be done in a few hours.
2. Budget: The type of safari you choose also depends on your budget and the amenities you prefer. There are luxury trips where you stay in plush lodges that offer guided tours, meals and drinks with an experienced ranger. On the other hand, there are budget-friendly trips where you stay in tents and cook for yourself. Fly camping safaris, for example, are the most expensive luxury safaris that cost upwards of $1000 per day while camping safaris with a self-drive vehicle or campervans can be as low as $200 a day.
3. Accommodation: Accommodation is an important factor when choosing a safari trip because it determines the type of experience you will have. There are lodges and campsites available with different levels of comfort depending on your budget. You can also choose to stay in a tent, or even try fly camping where you sleep in the open air.
4. Vehicles: The type of vehicle that you take also determines the kind of safari experience you will have. You can choose to go on a 4×4 jeep safari, hire a campervan or take an aerial tour in a hot air balloon.
5. Wildlife Observation: The type of wildlife you plan to observe is another factor to consider when deciding the type of safari trip you want to take. You can choose an elephant-back safari for some unforgettable close encounters with these gentle giants, or even a lion safari if you are brave enough. There are birdwatching safaris, whale watching safaris and other specialized wildlife tours available.
Types of Safaris:
Camping Safaris:
There are several types of camping safaris including;
- Bush camping: This type of safari involves camping in remote wild areas. It is the most popular way to experience African wildlife as you are able to observe animals up close and in their natural habitats.
- Fly camping safari: This is a more extreme version of camping safari that involves sleeping in the open air without any tents. It is an exhilarating experience as you get to observe nocturnal animals and stargaze under the African sky.
Fly camping Safaris:
First on our list of types of safaris happens to be one of the most expensive and luxurious options. Fly camping is the most personalized safari experience you can get, with experienced guides taking care of your every need. This type of camping entails no tents and no cooking, leaving you with nothing to do but relax and enjoy the views.
Fly camping safari operators such as Ol Malo takes care of all the logistics and you’ll have to walk to the camping destination with the help of your guide. The campsite is usually situated on a private wildlife concession giving you exclusive access to view the animals undisturbed.
Aside from providing fly camping in the wild, most fly camping safaris also offer other activities to do such as horseback riding, camelback riding, fishing, and game drives.
This type of safari is ideal for those looking for a unique and intimate experience in the bush. Prices start from $1000 per person per day and include all meals, drinks, game drives, guide services and accommodation.
Bush Camping Safaris:
If you’re looking for a more rustic and adventurous experience, try bush camping safaris. This type of safari involves staying in tents or sleeping under the stars with no amenities provided. You can either choose to go guided or self-drive as many operators offer both options.
Unlike fly camping safaris, you’ll have to do all the work setting up the camp and cooking your own meals with the help of a guide. This type of camping can be done in national parks or private reserves, giving you access to incredible wildlife and breathtaking views.
Pros and Cons of Bush camping safaris:
Pros:
- Bush camping safaris offer an up-close and personal experience in the bush. You’ll have exclusive access to wildlife and landscapes that you won’t find anywhere else, making it ideal for those who want to get away from it all.
Cons:
- This type of safari requires more work as setting up and packing up the camp can be a lengthy process.
- Also, there won’t be any luxuries provided in the bush so you’ll have to bring everything you need with you such as food and water.
Prices start from $100 per person per day and usually include Park fees, meals, game drives, drinks and accommodation.
Bush camping is ideal for those looking for an unforgettable outdoor experience while still being comfortable enough to enjoy the sights and sounds of nature at its best!
We have specialized guides on wild or bush camping which include;
- Camping in Amboseli
- Camping in Lake Naivasha
- Camping at Maasai Mara
Driving Safaris:
There are two types of driving safaris, self-drive and guided drives. Self-drive safaris involve hiring a car and driving around the park or reserve on your own, while guided drives involve being taken around by an experienced guide.
Self-drive Safaris:
Self-drive safaris are one of the most economical ways to explore Africa’s natural beauty without spending too much money. With this type of safari, you’ll be driving your own 4×4 Land Cruiser or campervan through the African bush. In Kenya and East Africa at large, the most common type of self-drive vehicle to hire is a land cruiser.
Pros and cons of self-drive safaris:
Pros:
- Self-drive safaris are more economical than most types of safaris and you will have complete freedom to explore the area you’re visiting.
- You can also choose your itinerary and make changes on the way as you please, making it an ideal option for those who like to choose their own adventure.
Cons:
- The main disadvantage of self-drive safaris is that you will have to plan your own route and accommodation and be prepared for any breakdowns or other issues that might arise along the way.
- You will also be responsible for navigating through unfamiliar terrain, so it’s important to have a good sense of direction and an understanding of the local roads.
- Challenge navigating driving rules for drivers from countries that drive in the opposite side. For example, Americans drive on the right side while countries in East Africa such as Kenya drive on the left.
Self-drive safaris offer a lot of freedom as you decide what to do and where to go during the trip. You can choose your own route, take detours to visit local villages, go on game drives, and even sleep under the stars in remote areas.
Most self-drive safaris offer trips with accommodation provided at well-equipped campsites or lodges situated along the route. Prices start from $200 per person per day and include game drives, meals and camping fees.
Go for this type of safari if you want to explore the African bush with a sense of freedom and without spending too much.
Guided safaris:
Guided safaris are one of the most popular ways to explore Africa due to their level of convenience and comfort. A professional guide will take you around the park or reserve in a 4×4 vehicle, allowing you to admire the scenery without having to worry about navigating or getting lost.
Pros and cons of guided safaris:
Pros:
- The main advantage of guided safaris is that you will have an experienced guide to show you the best sights and wildlife. Guides are knowledgeable about the area and can give you insights into the local culture, flora, fauna and history.
- Guided safaris also provide more amenities such as meals, drinks and accommodation in comfortable lodges or campsites.
- Guides will help you bridge the language barrier with local communities.
- Going on a safari with a guide will make your trip more secure
Cons:
- The main disadvantage of guided safaris is that you will have less freedom to explore and do things at your own pace. You will also have to follow the group, so if someone in the group wants to take a detour, then everyone else has to go along with it.
- Guided safaris are also more expensive than self-drive safaris, with prices starting from $300 per person per day.
Go for this type of safari if you want to experience the best of Africa with a knowledgeable guide and have the convenience of accommodation and meals included in your package.
Fly-in Safaris:
If you prefer not to drive or be driven on your safari, you can opt for a more expensive option to fly directly to your safari destination. With this type of safari, you land on your international flight from airports such as JFK or Heathrow and embark on another domestic flight. In Kenya, most domestic flights operate and depart from Nairobi’s Wilson Airport.
Pros and Cons of Fly-in Safaris:
Pros:
- The main advantage of fly-in safaris is convenience. You don’t have to worry about long drives or navigating through unfamiliar terrain, and you can usually get to your destination quickly and easily.
- Fly-in safaris also offer a more luxurious experience as you will be flown to your destination in a private plane or helicopter.
Cons:
- The main disadvantage of fly-in safaris is that they are usually much more expensive than other types of African safaris, with prices starting from $1000 per person per day.
- Also, you will miss out on local attractions and experiences along the way that can be enjoyed on a self-drive or guided safari.
- Go for this type of safari if you want the convenience and luxury of flying directly to your destination, and don’t mind missing out on some experiences along the way.
Game watching Safari:
The most popular reason 13,000+ tourist make safari trips to Kenya each year is because of the amazing diversity of wildlife in Kenya’s Parks and Reserves. To see different kinds of animals, you’ll need to go on a game-watching safari.
Game-watching safaris offer a chance to see some of Africa’s most iconic wildlife up close. You can expect to spot animals such as elephants, lions, zebras and giraffes in their natural habitat. Depending on where you go, you might also get the chance to observe rare species such as rhinos or cheetahs.
Pros and cons of game-watching safaris:
Pros:
- The main advantage of game-watching safaris is the opportunity to observe wildlife in their natural habitat.
- You will have a chance to get close to some of Africa’s most iconic animals, without having to worry about getting too close or disturbing them.
- Game-watching safaris are also usually cheaper than other types of safaris, with prices starting from $100 per person per day.
Cons:
- The main disadvantage of game-watching safaris is that you will have less freedom to explore if you opted for a guided safari. You will be following a predetermined route and may not have the opportunity to take detours or make stops along the way.
Go for this type of safari if you want to get close to Africa’s wildlife and don’t mind not having complete freedom in your itinerary.
Specialist Safaris:
If you are looking for a more unique safari experience, then specialist safaris could be the way to go. These types of trips are tailored towards certain interests such as birdwatching, wildlife photography, trekking and even hot air balloon safaris.
Some common specialist safaris include;
Gorilla tracking safari:
Gorilla-tracking safaris are becoming increasingly popular in regions such as Uganda and Rwanda. On this type of trip, you will venture into the rainforest to observe and track gorillas in an ethical and responsible manner. Rwanda is my favorite place so far because it is more organized. It was thrilling to come face to face with these giants. The experience was very fulfilling and worth the effort. Also, it feels good knowing that you have contributed towards their conservation efforts simply by purchasing an entry permit.
Walking safaris:
Another type of specialty safari is overnight walking or just walking safaris. These trips usually take place in smaller groups, with a guide leading you through the bush and showing you its secrets. You get to experience nature up close and personal and discover something new every step of the way.
There aren’t many walking safaris in Kenya but there are there. Karisia walking safari is one of the most popular ones located in Laikipia, North of Mount Kenya. Their safaris are unique in that they get the help of elephants who carry the luggage.
They provide walking safaris across landscapes rich with history, from the Rift Valley to culturally significant sites rife with artifacts like flints, shards, graves and pottery.
Kirisia’s mobile walking safari packages take 3 to 5 days and you can expect to walk for 10 to 12 kilometers a day(in Miles, about 6 to 7 miles).
Go for this type of safari if you want a unique up close and personal experience with nature and wish to discover something new every step of the way. While most walking safaris mention that their walks are moderate in terms of difficulty, make sure you are in good shape before you embark on this type of activity.
The cost of Kirisia Safaris for 4 days and 3 nights start from $2,725 as shown in the table in the snapshot below but solo travelers even pay more, $5,090 to $6425. Per day, this translates to at least $1,000 per day. $750, per person.
Canoe and Fishing Safaris:
Canoeing safaris are becoming more and more popular in some parts of Africa, such as the Okavango Delta in Botswana. On this type of trip, you will be able to explore rivers, channels and lagoons as you paddle your way through the delta.
In the Kenyan coast, fishing safaris are also becoming popular. Here, you can expect to catch a variety of different species such as barracuda, queenfish and even tigerfish!
Horseback and Camelback Riding Safaris:
Horseback and camelback riding safaris are fun alternatives to traditional game drives or walks. On these types of trips, you will have the chance to ride majestic wild horses and camels through remote areas of wilderness. These types of safaris can be found in many places across Africa such as South Africa, Morocco, Namibia and Kenya. If you love animals, then this type of safari may be perfect for you!
Photography Safaris:
A tailor-made photography safari is ideal for passionate wildlife photographers. This type of trip is designed specifically for photographers and allows you to capture the perfect image with ease. A lot of planning goes into these trips, such as choosing the right time of year to visit a certain location, and deciding on particular activities or experiences that are best done during certain times of day.
Pilots Safaris:
Pilot safaris are a great way to see Africa from the air,- without having to take an expensive hot air balloon ride. Pilot safaris usually involve flying in a small plane over certain areas of interest, and you may even get the chance to land on remote airstrips and explore areas that would otherwise be inaccessible on foot. Pilot safaris are perfect for those who want to get a bird’s eye view of the continent, and you can often customize the route to suit your interests.
Hot-air Baloon Safaris:
One of the most unique safari experiences that you can have is a hot-air balloon ride. This type of trip usually takes place in the morning, and you will get to soar above beautiful landscapes while snapping pictures with your camera or phone. Hot-air balloon safaris are particularly popular in certain parts of Kenya and Tanzania, such as the Serengeti, Masai Mara and Ngorongoro Crater.
Conservation Safaris:
If you are looking for a more meaningful and rewarding safari experience, then why not consider booking a conservation safari? On this type of trip, you will not only get to enjoy incredible wildlife encounters but also take part in activities that help protect endangered species or support local conservation projects.
Cultural Heritage Safari:
If you would prefer to learn about the cultures and traditions of different African countries, then why not consider a cultural heritage safari? On this type of trip, you will get to visit communities and national parks that have rich histories. You may also visit traditional villages, listen to stories told by locals or explore ancient ruins.
Cycling Safaris:
A stand-alone cycling safari trip means the journey will only involve biking and nothing else. The team leading the excursion are specialized in this field and has plenty of experience.
If you need a break or can’t keep up with the rest of the group, we have carrier vehicles on standby. The crew will also organize stops for resting and meals at convenient places. You can also do other cycling trips as part of a bigger trip.
You can enjoy cycling safaris in Kenya’s Hells Gate National Park.
Luxury safaris:
In Kenya, tented camps mostly in the Laikipia with customized experiences are available. These luxury safaris allow you to stay in luxurious accommodations and experience the best of African wildlife up close. The luxury safari includes a full-service camp with private bathrooms, hot showers, and delicious meals cooked by experienced chefs. You will also be taken on guided game drives and walks with experienced local guides who can provide interesting insights into the wildlife and cultures of their home.
Family, Honeymoon and Wedding Safaris:
Special family, honeymoon and wedding safaris are the perfect way to celebrate a special occasion. These types of trips usually combine game-viewing activities with romantic dinners, spa treatments, and other fun activities. You can also customize these trips according to your budget and preferences.
Depending on the age of your children, your family trip will be crafted specifically with them in mind. This is to prevent any boredom or tiredness from long drives and to add some fun activities throughout. Family safaris can be a party of 2 to as many as 10 while wedding or honeymoon safaris are mostly enjoyed by couples.
If you’re planning a family, honeymoon or wedding safari, please reach out. We have special packages for group tours and have a soft spot for honeymooners. We did our own honeymoon recently and went on a guided safari with a Tekko Safaris driver who drove us to Amboseli, L. Nakuru and Maasai Mara.
Which type of Safari to go: How to Decide?
When it comes to deciding which type of safari to book, the best thing to do is to consider what type of experience you are looking for. Think about your travel goals and interests, and then use this information as a starting point for selecting the right type of trip. Once you’ve decided on a particular option, you can then research different tour companies and itineraries to find the perfect safari for you.
Types of Safaris in Kenya to go in June to October Period:
Game watching Safari:
Keen wildlife watchers will love a game-watching safari in Kenya. From June to October, you can expect to see lions, zebras, giraffes and other animals roaming the Savannah plains of the Masai Mara National Reserve. During this period, you may also be able to witness the famous wildebeest migration from Tanzania into
Kenya. You can opt to have a guide with you to help identify different species and teach you about the local wildlife.
Beach Safari:
If you would prefer to spend your safari on a beach, then consider booking a beach safari in Kenya. From June to October, visitors can enjoy snorkeling, diving and fishing in crystal-clear waters along the coastline. You can also explore the exotic local marine life and visit the sandy beaches of Mombasa, Malindi and Lamu.
Photo Safari:
If you are looking for a picture-perfect safari, then why not opt for a photo safari in Kenya? During this period, you can expect to see large herds of elephants in Amboseli National Park and catch a glimpse of the snow-capped peak of Mount Kilimanjaro in the distance. You can also explore the open savannahs, dramatic waterfalls and picturesque sunsets that make up this beautiful country.
Birdwatching Safari:
Kenya is known for its incredible birdlife, so why not consider a bird-watching safari? From June to October, you can spot a range of rare and exotic birds in areas such as Lake Nakuru National Park, which is home to hundreds of pink flamingos.
Self-drive safaris:
If you want to explore Kenya on your own terms, then opt for a self-drive safari. This type of trip gives you the freedom to customize your route and stop off at places of interest along the way. You can also choose to stay in campsites or lodges that offer private rooms and bathrooms, allowing you to enjoy a more authentic experience.
What is the Best Kenya Safari?
Given the rich diversity of wildlife in Kenya, I’d have to say game-watching safaris -either guided or self-drive are the best safari to have in Kenya. Kenya’s wildlife is second to none and the Masai Mara National Reserve is a must-see for any wildlife enthusiast. Whether you want to follow the wildebeest migration, spot lions up close or just take in the beauty of the African savannah, Kenya has something to offer everyone!
While game-watching safaris are getting popular, their cost can be quite high. If you’re looking for something more budget-friendly, then consider tent camping or photo safari in Kenya. These types of trips are packed with unique experiences and can still offer amazing opportunities to explore the country.
What are the best Kenya Safari Packages:
From over 1000 reviews left by people who have gone on Safaris in Kenya, I’d recommend the following packages:
- Laikipia Plateau Luxury Safari – This luxury package offers a unique game drive experience in Kenya’s Laikipia plateau. It includes game drives with experienced guides, private lodging and meals.
- Maasai Mara & Amboseli Wildlife Safari – Explore two of Kenya’s most popular wildlife reserves, the Maasai Mara and Amboseli National Parks. Experience game drives, hot air balloon rides and cultural interactions with the local Maasai people
- Samburu & Laikipia Wilderness Safari – A great package for wildlife enthusiasts that includes game drives in both Samburu and Laikipia, private camping and cultural tours.
- Tsavo National Park Safari – A budget-friendly option that includes game drives in the iconic Tsavo National Park, cultural excursions and a visit to Mombasa for beach relaxation.
- Luxury Mara River Safari – This package combines luxury accommodation with game drives along the banks of the Mara River. Experience amazing wildlife sightings, river cruises and more.
Kenya Safaris from Nairobi:
Some of the best packages of safaris from Kenya’s Capital Nairobi include the following:
- The Great Wildebeest Migration Safari – Experience the great wildebeest migration as you visit two of Africa’s most famous parks – Masai Mara National Reserve and Serengeti National Park in Tanzania. With this Safari, you can depart from Jomo Kenyatta Airport in Nairobi and arrive in the Mara within 5 hours.
- Samburu & Laikipia Wildlife Safari – An unforgettable wildlife safari experience that includes game drives in Samburu and Laikipia, cultural excursions and visits to local communities. A drive to get to this safari destination from Nairobi takes 7 hours.
- Aberdare National Park Safari – Explore the lush forests and high-altitude ranges of Aberdare National Park on this package. Spot rare wildlife like elephants, bushbucks, black rhinos and more. A drive to get here from Nairobi takes around 4 hours.
- Lake Nakuru & Amboseli Safari – An action-packed package that includes game drives, hiking and hot air balloon rides in Lake Nakuru National Park, as well as visits to Amboseli’s iconic landscapes. The two lakes, Lake Nakuru and Lake Amboseli are among the closest safari destination from Nairobi as they are just 3 hours away or even less. Using the Nairobi-Nakuru highway, it can actually take you less than 2 hours to get to Nakuru National Park.
- Tsavo East & West Safari – Explore two of Kenya’s largest parks on this amazing safari – Tsavo East and Tsavo West. From game drives to river cruises, the Tsavo parks offer a unique wildlife experience. The drive from Nairobi to the park entrance is approximately 4 hours.
A comparison of Kenya Safari Packages:
Budget safaris:
Tent camping, beach safari, and photo safaris are the best budget-friendly options in Kenya. These types of trips include game drives, private lodging, meals and cultural interactions with local communities. If you are camping in a campervan or in your tent, expect to pay as low as $100 per day during your safari period but be prepared to pay up to $150, especially during peak season from June to October.
Lake Nakuru and Lake Naivasha game-watching safaris where you drive yourself to the Parks can cost you less than $100 to rent a self-drive 4-WD vehicle. These two Parks are also within 2-3 hours from Nairobi and you can do the entire safari in a single day.
Other low-cost safari options include walking safaris, birding safaris, in the popular Tsavo National Park Safari.
Mid-range safari packages:
A budget-friendly but more luxurious option than camping is staying in lodges or mid-range hotels. These packages often include game drives, meals, cultural visits to local communities and are about $250 per person per day. The packages often include 2 or 3-day safaris, with trips to destinations such as Samburu National Reserve and Lewa Wildlife Conservancy.
High-end safari packages:
High-end safaris involve luxury accommodation in lodges, game drives and cultural interactions with local communities. These packages are usually priced at around $500 per person per day and include trips to destinations such as Masai Mara or the Aberdare National Park. Expect to see incredible wildlife sightings, hot air balloon rides, river cruises and more.
Top 30 Favorite Types of Safari Animals to Expect to See in your Kenyan Safari:
1. African Elephants
2. Rhinoceros
3. African Lions
4. Cheetahs
5. Leopards
6. Buffalo
7. Wildebeest
8. Giraffes
9. Hippopotamus
10. Warthogs
11. Zebras
12. Impalas
13. Bushbucks
14. Waterbucks
15. Elands
16. Jackals
17. Baboons
18. Vervet Monkeys
19. Hyenas
20. African Wild Dogs
21. Dik-Dik
22. Klipspringer
23. Reedbuck
24. Bateleur Eagles
25. Secretary Birds
26. Ostrich
27. Marabou Storks
28. Crowned Crane
29. Martial Eagles
30. Kori Bustards
What are some top Kenya Safari Lodges:
1. Sarova Mara Game Camp – Located in the Masai Mara National Reserve, this lodge has stunning views of the surrounding grasslands and offers visitors game drives, nature walks and cultural visits to local communities.
2. Ol Tukai Lodge – An elegant award-winning resort located in Amboseli National Park with spectacular views of Mount Kilimanjaro.
3. Samburu Intrepids Club – Situated in the heart of the Samburu National Reserve, this luxury lodge offers game drives, bush walks and cultural visits to local communities.
4. Great Rift Valley Lodge & Golf Resort – This hotel is situated on Lake Naivasha and offers stunning views of the surrounding Rift Valley. Guests can enjoy game drives, horse riding and boat cruises on the lake. Read about camping in Lake Naivasha here.
5. Sarova Shaba Game Lodge – This luxury lodge located in the Samburu National Reserve offers game drives, bird watching, cultural visits to local communities and a swimming pool with beautiful views of Mount Kenya.
6. Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge – Located at the foot of Mt Kilimanjaro, this luxurious lodge offers stunning views of the mountain and wildlife encounters with elephants, buffalos, impalas and more.
7. Fairmont Mount Kenya Safari Club – Situated in Nanyuki, this upscale hotel offers game drives and horse riding as well as cultural visits to local communities.
8. Sweetwaters Tented Camp – This tented camp located in the Ol Pejeta Conservancy offers game drives, night safaris and visits to a chimpanzee sanctuary.
9. Mara Serena Safari Lodge – This luxury lodge located in the Masai Mara National Reserve offers game drives, hot air balloon rides, bush walks and cultural visits to local communities.
10. Olarro Lodge – Located in the Maasai Mara National Reserve, this luxurious lodge offers stunning views of the surrounding grasslands and wildlife encounters with elephants, lions and more.
Tips for Choosing a Safari:
Do your research:
Make sure to read up on the different types of safaris and destinations before deciding which one is right for you. I found helpful books such as the Globetrotter Travel Guide by Dave and Vance Richards to be very helpful. I recommend this book because they were written by actual tour guides. Dave and Val Richard specialize in photography and birding safaris. Dave has experience leading tours through some of Africa’s most beautiful countries, including Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda, Zimbabwe, Botswana, Namibia Madagascar and South Africa. Check the price of the Book on Amazon here
Choose the right time of year to go on your safari:
Some areas are best visited during certain months due to wildlife migrations. Be sure to check this before deciding on a destination.
In Kenya, the period between June and October are the best as this is the dry season and when most of the migratory animals are present.
Consider your budget:
Safaris can be quite expensive, so it’s important to consider your budget before deciding on a safari. Do some research online and compare prices from different companies to get the best deal possible.
If you want to spend less than $200 per day during your safari, consider camping safaris with a self-drive campervan or staying at a budget lodge.
Take travel insurance:
Make sure to purchase travel insurance before you go on your safari, just in case something goes wrong. This will help protect you against medical emergencies, lost luggage and other unexpected costs.
Check the safety of the area:
If you’re visiting an area with an increased risk of terrorism or civil unrest, make sure to check the safety situation in that region before booking your safari.
Carry the right clothing:
The type of clothing you should pack depends on your destination. In general, it’s best to dress in layers and bring lightweight clothing that you can easily layer together. In dry areas such as the Serengeti or the Masai Mara, you should also bring a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses
Consider hiring an expert guide:
Going on a safari is no easy task and it can be hard to find all the wildlife if you don’t know where to look. Hiring an experienced guide can be a great way to ensure that you get the most out of your safari experience. Look for guides with extensive knowledge of the local area and good reviews from past customers.
Consider your interests:
Think about what type of wildlife you would like to see, what kind of activities you’d like to do and how much time you would like to spend on your safari.
Book in advance:
Most safaris require advance bookings and some lodges may be fully booked, so make sure to plan ahead and book your trip well in advance. Pack wisely: Make sure to pack the right clothes and gear for the type of safari you’re going on.
Prepare for unexpected delays:
Plan for unexpected delays and make sure you have enough time to complete your safari. Also, consider bringing some snacks or other non-perishable food items in case of delays or other unexpected events.
African Safaris in Kenya vs other Countries:
Below is what’s unique about safaris in some of top African safari destinations:
Uganda:
Uganda is relatively untouched compared to other African countries, Uganda offers a unique opportunity to experience the real Africa. The country is home to many unique species of wildlife and birds as well as friendly people. They are known for gorillas which are not common in Kenya.
Tanzania:
Tanzania safaris are similar to Kenya but have a higher concentration of animals compared to kenya. Tanzania also has vast plains in Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater. It is also home to Africa’s highest mountain – Mt. Kilimanjaro.
Some travelers claim that Tanzania as a safari destination has an advantage over Kenya due to its larger Serengeti National Park and more impressive Ngorongoro Crater. However, for those who want a quicker trip or are visiting the Masai Mara between August and November, Kenya is the better choice. Additionally, it is slightly cheaper and offers more cultural experiences.
Kenya is a smaller country but has a better infrastructure with more airports, lodges, and transport options. Tanzania is a bigger country with more land and national parks.
South Africa:
South Africa, you can experience everything from magnificent wildlife to incredible landscapes. With its wide variety of safari resorts, South Africa is a great choice for those looking for luxury and adventure. There are also many unique activities such as shark cage diving and wine tasting in Stellenbosch.
If you’re looking for a family-friendly safari destination, South Africa has for a long time been considered a better choice. Most blogs I read online talk of roads in South Africa being better than those in Kenya but I disagree.
The Kenyan government embarked on a significant infrastructure program that saw most roads leading to national Parks getting tarmacked. However, most roads within Kenyan parks are not paved.
And if you want todo water sports or visit the beach while on safari, both countries have coastline locations.
Madagascar:
Madagascar is home to rare species of plants and animals that you won’t find anywhere else in the world, so if you’re looking for something different and unique, Madagascar is the perfect destination. The country has many national parks that are home to lemurs, chameleons, birds, and reptiles.
Additionally, its diverse landscapes provide a great backdrop for safari adventures. From forests filled with giant trees to desert-like plains, Madagascar is sure to keep you entertained and amazed.
Botswana:
If you’re looking for a more luxurious safari experience, then consider Botswana. It has some of the most stunning natural landscapes in Africa and the game viewing opportunities are second to none. You can explore vast savannahs teeming with wildlife and experience traditional African culture.
Botswana also offers many unique activities such as boat trips, helicopter rides and walking safaris. And if you’re looking for something a bit more adventurous, consider going on a mokoro ride in the Okavango Delta.
Compared to Kenya, Botswana has the highest concentration of elephants.
FAQs
How long should I go on a Safari?
The length of your safari will depend on your budget and the type of experience you are looking for. If you are short on time, then a short three to four-day trip is usually enough to get an introduction to some of Kenya’s iconic wildlife spots. However, if you want to get more out of your trip, then consider booking a longer safari. Experts recommend planning for a 10 to 14-day trip to get a wholesome experience.
Do I need to be physically fit for Safari?
No, you don’t need to be physically fit in order to enjoy a safari in Kenya. However, if you are planning on doing any active activities such as game drives or hikes, then it is recommended that you have an adequate level of fitness. This will help you to make the most out of your experience and ensure that you are comfortable throughout the trip.
What should I pack for Safari?
When packing for a safari, it’s important to remember that you will be spending time in various different climates and environments. As such, it is recommended to bring clothing that is suitable for hot and cold weather, as well as comfortable walking shoes. Other essentials include a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, binoculars and a camera.
Do I need vaccinations for Safari?
The specific requirements for vaccines and medications will vary depending on the country you are visiting. It is recommended to check with your doctor or a travel clinic before travelling, as they can provide advice on what vaccines and medications are necessary.
Are there any safety precautions I should be aware of when going on Safari? 10 Main ones:
1. Follow the directions given by your tour guide.
2. Stay in the vehicle at all times when on a game drive.
3. Be aware of your surroundings, especially animals that could be dangerous.
4. Respect local cultures and customs when visiting villages and communities.
5. Stay in designated campsites while camping.
6. Avoid drinking tap water unless it has been boiled or treated with a purification tablet.
7. Don’t feed any wild animals, and avoid contact with animals that could be dangerous.
8. Use insect repellent to prevent bites from mosquitos and other bugs.
9. Have travel insurance in place before you travel.
10. Avoid walking at night, and stay within the boundaries of your campsite after dark.
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