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The Complete African Safari Guide

Few travel experiences compare to an African safari. It is a chance to see wildlife up close, connect with nature, and explore some of the most breathtaking landscapes on Earth.

But planning a safari can feel overwhelming. Where should you go? When is the best time? What will it cost? And how do you make sure you are prepared? This guide breaks it all down, giving you the essentials, insider tips, and curated package ideas to help you plan your first or next African safari with confidence.

Picture of Edited by Sharon, Regional Expert in Kenya

Edited by Sharon, Regional Expert in Kenya

Reviewed with our Kenya specialist to add authentic knowledge of wildlife and traditions.

Table of Contents

What Every First-Time Safari Traveler Should Know

Before you dive into the details of destinations and itineraries, there are a few essentials every traveler should know. These quick facts will help you set realistic expectations and plan smarter.

  • Best time to go

Peak safari season runs during the dry months (July to October and December to February). This is when wildlife gathers around waterholes and the Great Migration is at its most dramatic.

  • Top destinations

Kenya and Tanzania stand out as the ultimate safari destinations, thanks to the Serengeti, Maasai Mara, and the Great Migration. South Africa, Botswana, and Zambia also offer remarkable experiences, but East Africa remains the top choice for first-time travelers seeking iconic wildlife and landscapes.

  • Typical safari costs

Budgets vary widely. You can expect about $200–$300 per day for budget camping safaris, $400–$700 for mid-range lodges, and $800–$1,000+ for luxury safaris.

  • Ideal trip length

A minimum of 5–7 days gives you enough time to see multiple parks and really immerse yourself in the experience. Longer trips allow for deeper exploration and less rushed travel.

  • Safety

Guided safaris are safe as long as you follow your guide’s instructions. Most camps and lodges are well-prepared for travelers, and risks are minimal if you respect the rules of the bush.

  • Mindset

A safari is more than a checklist of animals. Slow down, disconnect from Wi-Fi, and enjoy the magic of the bush. Some of your best memories will come from quiet moments in nature

Curated African Safari That Works for You

If you prefer a ready-made itinerary crafted by experts, our curated safari packages take the guesswork out of planning. Each trip balances wildlife, culture, and comfort, giving you the best of Africa without the stress of organizing everything yourself.

Here are four popular options:

Wonders of Kenya (9 Days)

Experience Kenya’s finest wildlife reserves in a shorter, action-packed itinerary. Perfect for travelers who want to see the Big Five, witness breathtaking landscapes, and immerse themselves in Maasai culture.

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Wonders of Kenya with Zanzibar Island Escape (12 Days)

A journey through Kenya’s most iconic parks, including Aberdare, Samburu, Ol Pejeta, Lake Nakuru, and the Maasai Mara. End your adventure with a few days of relaxation on Zanzibar’s white-sand beaches, exploring Stone Town and a spice farm.

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African Safari Adventure (14 Days)

A classic safari designed for wildlife enthusiasts. Spend your days spotting elephants, lions, and giraffes in world-famous national parks, with evenings spent in charming lodges and camps.

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African Adventure with Zanzibar Island Escape (17 Days)

A longer, more immersive experience that blends thrilling game drives across Kenya with cultural encounters and extra time on the beaches of Zanzibar. Designed for those who want a balance of exploration and relaxation.

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Choosing the Right Safari Destinations

Africa is vast, and each region offers a very different safari experience. The right destination depends on what you want to see, how much time you have, and the type of adventure you’re after.

Two male lions roaring on the plains of an African safari.
The powerful roar of two male lions echoes across the African savanna.

East Africa

  • Kenya: Famous for the Great Migration in the Maasai Mara, where millions of wildebeest and zebra cross the plains each year. Also home to Amboseli, known for elephants with Mount Kilimanjaro in the backdrop.
  • Tanzania: The Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater provide year-round wildlife sightings and some of the best safari landscapes on Earth.
  • Uganda & Rwanda: Known for gorilla and chimpanzee trekking. These destinations are less about the Big Five and more about rare primate encounters.

Southern Africa

  • South Africa: Kruger National Park and private reserves like Sabi Sands are perfect for first-timers. Easy to combine with Cape Town and the Garden Route.
  • Botswana: World-renowned for pristine, uncrowded safaris in the Okavango Delta and Chobe National Park, famous for massive elephant herds.
  • Zambia & Zimbabwe: Excellent for walking safaris and river-based adventures. Victoria Falls is often combined with safaris in this region.
  • Namibia: Unique desert landscapes, dramatic scenery, and wildlife viewing in Etosha National Park.

How to Choose

  • If you want to see the Great Migration → Kenya or Tanzania.
  • If you want luxury lodges and easy logistics → South Africa.
  • If you want exclusivity and fewer crowds → Botswana.
  • If you want something adventurous or different → Zambia, Zimbabwe, or Namibia

When to Go on a Safari

Timing is one of the biggest factors in shaping your safari experience. Wildlife movements, weather, and even costs all shift with the seasons.

Peak Season (July to October, December to February)

  • Dry season means animals gather around water sources, making them easier to spot.
  • The Great Migration crosses the Maasai Mara and Serengeti during July–October.
  • Excellent for photography thanks to clear skies.
  • Higher prices and busier parks, especially in East Africa.

Green Season (March to May, November)

  • Rains bring lush landscapes and fewer crowds.
  • Wildlife is harder to spot as vegetation thickens, but this is when newborn animals arrive.
  • A great time for birdwatching and discounted safari rates.

Shoulder Season (transitional months)

  • A balance between crowd levels and affordability.
  • Wildlife sightings can be surprisingly good, depending on rainfall.
  • Ideal for travelers seeking value without sacrificing too much on experience.

Quick Tip

If your priority is the Great Migration, plan for July–October in Kenya’s Maasai Mara or December–June in Tanzania’s Serengeti. If you prefer a quieter, more affordable trip, the green season offers great deals and fewer vehicles at sightings.

Your Trip, Your Way

Pick from our curated packages for an easy start, or work with our specialists to design a custom itinerary that fits your group perfectly.

Plan Your Group Trip

Types of Safaris & What They Include

Not all safaris are the same. Depending on your style of travel, you can choose from a variety of experiences that each offer something unique.

A wild cheetah walking across a dirt road in front of safari jeeps.
A majestic cheetah stalks its prey, unbothered by the safari vehicles.

Classic Game Drives

  • The most common safari experience, usually in open 4×4 vehicles.
  • Early morning and late afternoon drives give you the best chance of spotting wildlife.
  • Perfect for first-timers who want a balance of comfort and adventure.

Walking Safaris

  • Guided walks through safe areas, usually without large predators.
  • A chance to see smaller animals, plants, and tracks up close.
  • Great for travelers who want a slower, more immersive connection with nature.

Hot Air Balloon Safaris

  • Soar over the savannah at sunrise and watch the herds move below.
  • Often paired with a champagne breakfast on landing.
  • A bucket-list experience, especially during the Great Migration.

Boat & Mokoro Safaris

  • Common in regions with rivers and deltas, like Botswana’s Okavango.
  • View elephants, hippos, and birdlife from the water.
  • Offers a peaceful change of pace from land-based drives.

Cultural & Conservation Experiences

  • Visit Maasai or Samburu villages to learn about local traditions.
  • Join conservation-focused tours, such as rhino sanctuaries or giraffe centers.
  • Adds depth to your trip by connecting with the people who protect these landscapes.

Where to Stay on a Safari

Your choice of accommodation can completely shape your safari experience. From ultra-luxury lodges to rustic camps, there’s something for every style and budget.

Luxury glamping tents in a desert safari camp at sunset
Experience the magic of the desert in a luxury tent camp under the stars

Luxury Lodges

  • High-end accommodations with private guides, gourmet dining, and spa facilities.
  • Often located in private reserves with fewer vehicles at sightings.
  • Ideal for travelers seeking exclusivity, comfort, and personalized service.

Tented Camps

  • A step between luxury and rustic. Spacious canvas tents with real beds, en-suite bathrooms, and sometimes even Wi-Fi.
  • Offer the “under canvas” feel while still being very comfortable.
  • Perfect for those who want a blend of adventure and modern amenities.

Budget Camps and Guesthouses

  • Simple facilities, often outside park gates.
  • Affordable and social, popular with younger or more adventurous travelers.
  • Best for those who prioritize wildlife viewing over luxury.

Inside the Park vs. Outside the Park

  • Inside: Quick access to wildlife viewing, especially at sunrise and sunset, but typically more expensive.
  • Outside: More budget-friendly with a wider range of accommodation types, but requires longer drives into the park each day.

Safari Costs & What’s Included

Is an African safari worth the cost? Absolutely. For many travelers, the chance to see lions on the hunt, elephants at a watering hole, or the Great Migration up close is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. 

And the good news is, a safari doesn’t have to break the bank. Costs vary widely depending on comfort level, location, and season, so you can tailor the trip to your budget while still getting incredible value.

Average Costs

  • Budget safaris: Around $200–$300 per person per day. Usually camping or basic lodges, shared vehicles, and set itineraries.
  • Mid-range safaris: Around $400–$700 per person per day. Comfortable lodges or tented camps, private or semi-private vehicles, and more flexibility.
  • Luxury safaris: $800–$1,000+ per person per day. Exclusive lodges, private guides, gourmet dining, and often located in private reserves with fewer vehicles.

What’s Typically Included

  • Accommodation (lodges, camps, or guesthouses)
  • All meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner, sometimes drinks)
  • Daily game drives or activities with professional guides
  • Park entry fees (check this, as not all packages include them)
  • Airport transfers and in-country transport between parks

What’s Often Not Included

  • International flights
  • Travel insurance
  • Visas and vaccinations
  • Optional activities (like hot air balloon rides or cultural visits)
  • Tips for guides, drivers, and camp staff

Money-Saving Tips

  • Travel during green or shoulder season for lower rates.
  • Consider group safaris to split costs.
  • Stay outside park gates to cut lodging expenses while still accessing top wildlife areas.

What to Pack & Plan For

Packing for a safari is all about being practical and comfortable. Conditions can change quickly, so a little preparation goes a long way.

Clothing

  • Neutral colors like beige, olive, and khaki blend into the environment and help avoid startling animals.
  • Light, breathable fabrics for hot days.
  • A warm jacket or fleece for early mornings and evenings, which can be chilly.
  • A wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses for sun protection.
  • Comfortable walking shoes or lightweight boots.

 

Gear

  • Binoculars for spotting wildlife at a distance.
  • A good camera with a zoom lens (200mm or more is ideal).
  • Extra memory cards and spare batteries.
  • A small daypack for game drives and short walks.

 

Health & Essentials

  • Sunscreen and insect repellent (look for one with DEET).
  • Personal medication and a basic first aid kit.
  • Reusable water bottle.
  • Travel documents: passport, visa (if required), travel insurance.
  • Soft-sided luggage — many small safari planes have strict 15kg weight limits.

 

Quick Tip

Leave flashy clothing, heavy luggage, and strong perfumes at home. The simpler and lighter you pack, the easier your safari experience will be.

Safari Safety & Responsible Travel

Safaris are very safe when you follow the rules, but it is important to remember that you are in the wild. Respecting wildlife and supporting conservation efforts will also make your trip more meaningful.

A man feeding a giraffe from his hand at a safari lodge
A memorable moment: hand-feeding a friendly giraffe at a safari lodge in Kenya

Staying Safe

  • Always follow your guide’s instructions — they know animal behavior and how to keep you safe.
  • Never leave your vehicle during a game drive unless your guide says it is safe.
  • Keep noise to a minimum near animals. Loud voices or sudden movements can disturb wildlife.
  • Avoid walking alone at camps and lodges at night. Staff escorts are there for a reason.
  • Do not feed animals. It can endanger both them and you.

Travel Responsibly

  • Choose operators and lodges that support conservation and local communities.
  • Pay park fees gladly — they fund wildlife protection and habitat preservation.
  • Respect local cultures. If visiting a village, be open, polite, and ask before taking photos.
  • Travel light and avoid single-use plastics where possible.

Quick Tip

The most dangerous animals on safari are not always the predators. Hippos and elephants cause more human injuries than lions or leopards, so always give them space.

Family Travel Considerations

Bringing children on safari can be a rewarding experience, but it does require extra planning. Some camps and lodges are more family-friendly than others, and certain rules are in place to ensure everyone’s safety.

Age Restrictions

  • Many lodges set a minimum age (often 6–12 years) for safety reasons.
  • Walking safaris and certain activities may have stricter age limits

 

Private Vehicles for Families

  • Some camps require families with young children to book a private vehicle.
  • This ensures kids can enjoy the safari at their own pace without disturbing other guests.

 

Kid-Friendly Camps

  • Look for lodges with family tents or connecting rooms.
  • Some offer junior ranger programs or kid-focused activities to make the trip more engaging.

 

Practical Considerations

  • Camps are often remote and may have limited Wi-Fi, TVs, or modern entertainment.
  • Days can be long, so choose itineraries with a slower pace and downtime between drives.
  • Pack snacks, games, and familiar comforts for kids to enjoy during rest times.

 

Quick Tip

Safaris can be life-changing for children, offering them a deeper connection with nature. Just make sure the camp and itinerary match your family’s needs before booking.

Book Your First African Safari With Us

An African safari is one of the most unforgettable trips you can take — a chance to see incredible wildlife, connect with nature, and create lasting memories.

At US Group Travel, we make it simple by offering curated safari packages that balance adventure, culture, and comfort. From Kenya’s game reserves to top experiences in Zanzibar, our itineraries are designed to give you the best of Africa without the stress of planning.

Explore our curated safari packages or talk to a travel advisor today and start planning your journey into the wild.

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