Kevin’s Top 10 Safari Planning Tips

Courtesy of Norman Carr Safaris

1.   A VIP Meet & Greet on arrival in Africa is a great way to start your holiday after a long flight to an unfamiliar country.  We offer this to all our clients as it fast tracks your entry, which in Johannesburg, for example, can save huge amounts of time.

2.  While seeing the Big 5 is everyone’s dream, so much is gained from learning about Africa’s smaller creatures. Ask about the Little 5 (Elephant Shrew, Ant Lion, Rhinoceros Beetle, Buffalo Weaver and Leopard Tortoise) and also about the birds, insects, flora and fauna.  You will be amazed at how the total ecosystem works.

Elephant Shrew

 3.  A real safari is one of the greatest and most memorable holiday’s you will ever have. Prepare to have a total digital detox on safari.  Put your phone, computer and watch away and immerse yourself in nature, as a series of once in a lifetime moments unfold before your eyes.

Courtesy of Robin Pope

 4.  Safaris are not cheap, but with clever budget management a good tour operator will ensure a balance between budget, length of safari and experiences.

 5.  The quality of guiding makes your safari and also ensures your safety.

 6.  Private guiding makes all the difference, especially if you are a family. If budget allows, take an exclusive use villa and be in control of where to go, what to do and how long to spend at every sighting. Child friendly camps have guides used to keeping young ones amused!

7.   Even if you are planning a self-drive safari, say to Namibia or South Africa, then it is well worth spending time with a guide. Most of the experience lies beyond just seeing animals but being in the presence of someone who understands bushcraft. If this is your first safari, definitely do it with a guide!

 8.  When planning a safari ensure that you get to sample the whole spectrum of safari experiences. Day drives, night drives, boating safaris, bush meals, fishing, village or school visits all introduce a new dimension to your trip.

 9.  If you have any special interests log them with your tour operator, so they can forewarn the camps before your arrival.

 10.  A great safari is like a good book. It should have a beginning, middle and end and keep you wanting to experience the next day.  Expert advice will help you paint your own masterpiece.

To arrange your next adventure please call us now on +44 01722 445925 or contact us via the link below to chat “safari”.  Our fully ATOL protected holidays are individually designed around you to create your perfect African Safari. 

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