What to know before organizing a Safari in Africa
Having organized trips and safaris in Africa for many years I have worked alongside numerous travelers, both current and potential, to create and design the perfect itinerary to suit their needs. I understand that many people looking to organize their first safari may not know where to start and might have many doubts. How does a safari work? What should you expect?
In this post, I address some of the most common questions that should not be underestimated, but rather clarified. If you are considering traveling to Africa and planning your first safari, this article might provide some answers to your questions.
If you are unsure where to begin and would like an overview of the continent’s main parks, read the post on the best safari parks in Africa.
The Big 5 and sightings (which cannot be guaranteed)
One of the primary desires for those embarking on their first safari is to see the Big 5. This is a completely legitimate request but not always achievable. Animals live freely in national parks or reserves, and no tour operator can ever guarantee that you will see all of them.
This is certainly possible in a zoo, where animals are in enclosed areas. However, it is by no means a certainty on an African safari.
Certainly, an operator knows that some animals are easier to find in a park or a particular area of the park, but this does not mean that the sighting will be guaranteed.
In Tanzania, it is very rare to see a rhinoceros, while the chances are higher in Kenya. Spotting elusive and shy animals like leopards and cheetahs is difficult but not impossible. The chances are certainly higher in the Serengeti compared to Tarangire National Park (although there are sightings here too).
When planning a safari, it is advisable to consider a country that allows for multi-day game drives. The more game drive days you have, the more chances you have to see the animals, but you cannot expect to see all the animals you desire because game drives are influenced by many factors, including a good dose of luck.
The Great Migration (the period, the area, and the possibility of not seeing the action)
The Great Migration is one of the most extraordinary natural spectacles in the world, the magic of which lies precisely in its unpredictability.
This phenomenon is closely dependent on the rhythms of nature, particularly the animals’ instincts and the cycles of rains that guide their movements. Although it is traditionally believed that the period between mid-July and mid-September is favorable for spotting the migration in the north of the Serengeti, there is no certainty. Unpredictable climate changes and abnormal rainfall can alter the animals’ routes and distribution.
It is possible to reach the remote regions of the northern Serengeti, facing the high costs of such a journey, and not witness the epic river crossings. Similarly, in areas like Ndutu, herds may appear more scattered than usual if there have been abundant rains in preceding months. This does not compromise the value of the safari but emphasizes the element of luck and uncertainty that accompanies any game drive.
For those who wish to experience the magic of the Great Migration, which primarily involves wildebeests and zebras, it is advisable to try. However, if this is your first safari and you do not want to embark on an 8/9-day journey due to budget or time constraints, know that skipping the north does not exclude the essence of a safari. For example, one of the most popular options is a 6-day safari. An excellent compromise between national parks, ecosystems, and cost.
IMPORTANT
It should be emphasized that no operator can guarantee sightings of the migration, just as they cannot assure sightings of specific animals; the dynamics of the savannah are subtle and complex, especially now as climate change is disrupting the balance and habits of animals. The promise of certainties in witnessing such events is not only unrealistic but also fails to do justice to the unpredictable and wild essence that defines a true safari in Africa.
National Parks and Nature Reserves
National parks and nature reserves are both types of protected areas, but they serve slightly different roles and can offer unique experiences.
A National Park is often a large, scenic area preserved for its extraordinary natural beauty, wildlife biodiversity, and geographic features.
The National Park is typically public property, but this does not mean it is necessarily cheaper (although in some countries, like Namibia or South Africa, it is). Expect to find well-organized facilities such as visitor centers, campsites, and marked hiking trails. This is perfect for tourists seeking outdoor recreation, education, and inspirational experiences.
On the other hand, a Nature Reserve is more conservation-oriented, mainly intended for protecting specific habitats, species, or geologically significant landscapes.
Access and activities are typically more limited to minimize human impact and interventions, focusing mainly on research and conservation efforts. In a nature reserve, you may not find the same level of visitor infrastructure, but you can expect a higher level of tranquility and potentially more intimate encounters with wildlife, offering a different type of interaction with nature.
Remember: Both national parks and nature reserves aim to support environmental conservation, so it is important to respect the rules and guidelines of each protected area to ensure they remain pristine for future generations.
The long distances and the many hours by car
Embarking on a safari in Africa, with its immense charm and vast expanses, entails embracing the ongoing challenge of long distances and roads that are not always in good condition.
During a safari, spending many hours inside a 4×4 is more of a norm than an exception, and the roads, weaving their irregular pattern through majestic landscapes, may be less than perfect. One often drives along long stretches that separate one natural wonder from another, with journeys that can extend well beyond three hours, considered relatively short.
Are you ready for an eight-hour transfer to cover only 200 kilometers in a day? In Africa, this is a distinct possibility, but every moment spent on the roads is an opportunity to immerse yourself in the ever-changing scenarios of a land rich in unexpected vignettes and close encounters with wildlife.
Alternative to road routes – Flights to the Strips
Those looking to optimize time and avoid long hours on the road may consider charter flights. These flights can directly connect to the so-called “Strips,” the airstrips located within the hearts of national parks and reserves. While these air solutions offer a notable time-saving, they often come with a high price tag. Therefore, the choice between venturing by road or flying should be advised by an expert who will balance distances, safari experiences, and budget.
Before delving into creating a personalized itinerary, my practice is to request a clear and realistic indication of the available budget per person. The goal is to identify the best possible compromise between visiting national parks/reserves, selecting adventurous and exclusive activities, and keeping costs within agreed-upon parameters.
For example, if you were to specify a ceiling of $2,500 per participant, it would be inefficient and perhaps counterproductive to suggest options exceeding $3,000. Only through open discussion and adjusting spending expectations could we consider itineraries that align with your desires and needs.
Be realistic and seek advice from an expert
We understand that distances can be vast, or perhaps not in terms of kilometers, but many driving hours are involved due to the road conditions. Be realistic about these distances and seek advice from an expert.
On a map, some distances may seem short or equal to the proposed alternative. However, what maps don’t reveal is the condition of the roads, which can change rapidly. Just a rather heavy rain can disrupt some routes for weeks.
Attempting to cover too many places in a few days, without giving due consideration to the kilometers to be traveled, could result in an excessively tiring safari with limited actual game drive hours.
Accommodation standards
The standard of accommodations during a safari in Africa can vary greatly, primarily depending on the maturity of the tourism industry within a specific country.
Some parts of Africa, especially in established safari destinations like Tanzania or Namibia, offer exclusive lodges such as the Four Seasons or the wonderful facilities of the company andBeyond. These facilities offer luxury accommodations, complete with international-level services and comforts, designed for discerning international travelers.
On the other hand, new destinations like Uganda may offer a more rustic experience, with simpler lodging facilities that reflect the emerging nature of its tourism industry. These facilities may not boast the same level of comfort and luxury, but they have an authentic charm.
Regardless of the category, it is important to always remember that you are in Africa, where the infrastructure may not be as stable as in Europe.
Electricity can be unpredictable and many lodges, including some of the luxury ones, rely on solar energy as the main source of power. Additionally, while lodging facilities strive to provide as much comfort as possible, some common services in other parts of the world, such as air conditioning, may not be available, even in lodging facilities that cost several hundred dollars per night.
As for food, lodges usually cater to international tastes, with menus that draw from world cuisine rather than local dishes. However, keep in mind that the logistics of food delivery in remote areas may limit the variety and offerings.
While safari lodges across Africa can vary from ultra-luxury to simpler facilities, the journey can pose unpredictable challenges. These factors contribute to the great adventure of a safari. It’s all part of the experience.
Park fees and entrance fees – A cost not to be underestimated
When traveling in Europe, we tend to focus on the costs of flights and accommodations and consider them as the main expenses to deal with.
However, when it comes to planning a safari in Africa, the situation becomes more complex and our habits must adapt to a different reality. The expenses of flights and accommodations remain important, but they are joined by a series of additional costs that can, in certain contexts, surpass the previous ones.
Consider, for example, the logistical needs of a safari: the car and the driver, and the petrol, which, especially for 4×4 vehicles, represents a significant expense, even more so in a context where prices have risen steeply.
The taxes and concession fees
In addition to this, there are the entrance fees to the parks, which vary greatly depending on the chosen destination. While in Namibia and South Africa these fees may be considered affordable, moving to destinations like Kenya, Tanzania or Uganda means facing significantly higher daily fees.
Take, for example, the cost of the car to access the Ngorongoro Crater in Tanzania: almost $300 just to drive the jeep into the crater, in addition to $82 per person for the daily fee and $70 for concession fees if you sleep inside the park. The sole fees for this day add up to around $300 per person (to which the cost of the car, guide, and accommodation must be added).
Or consider the additional cost for those who choose to stay inside the parks in Tanzania. When sleeping within the national parks or protected areas and opting for tented camps, in addition to the daily fees, an extra fee called “concession fees” must be paid, ranging from $50 to $70 per person per night.
In Kenya, those who choose to stay in accommodations outside the park (which are cheaper than those inside) and wish to re-enter the Maasai Mara must pay a fee of $200 per person, valid for only 12 hours (24 if staying inside the park). The 24-hour validity of park admission expires if you exit from it. It is not possible to re-enter without paying again.
Taxes for working as a Tour Operator
It should be noted that the safari sector is highly regulated and operators are required to pay significant annual taxes. Estimates indicate that approximately 40% of the expenses incurred by travelers are used to cover these tax obligations. While varying greatly from country to country, it is clear that expenses related to lodges or tented camps represent only a portion of the total.
Approaching the planning of a safari with an understanding of these dynamics allows one to embark on the adventure with informed eyes, ready to envision an experience that goes beyond the simplicity of flight and accommodation costs and also allows the expert accompanying you in the safari to find the best compromise for your needs.
Self-drive and guided safaris
Self-drive safaris and guided safaris offer distinctly different ways to experience the African wilderness, each with its own advantages and considerations.
In a self-drive safari, one has the freedom to navigate parks at their own pace, making spontaneous decisions on where to go based on their personal interests. This type of safari is common and well-supported in parks like Etosha in Namibia and Kruger in South Africa, where roads are signposted and general conditions are suitable for tourists who choose to drive independently.
Not everywhere is self-driving safari recommended or even possible. In countries like Kenya, Uganda or Tanzania, a high level of park knowledge is required – from understanding animal behavior to navigating through challenging terrains. In these countries, guided safaris are the norm and are often encouraged.
Therefore, while the autonomy of a self-drive game drive may be enticing, it becomes less practical, more expensive, and potentially dangerous in regions where professional guidance is strongly recommended due to complex terrains and the experience necessary to fully appreciate and safely explore these magnificent yet challenging environments.
The costs of a safari in Africa
The costs of a safari in Africa can often surprise potential travelers due to their high prices, but it is essential to understand the factors that contribute to these costs. Constructing and maintaining facilities within national parks involves significant expenses, mainly due to restrictive concessions, the remoteness of locations, and logistical challenges in transporting furniture, supplies, and even food to these areas.
Offering Western standards comes at a high cost
Striving to meet the expectations and standards of Western tourists requires additional investments, further inflating costs. However, accommodation options are limited, with few or no solutions for those seeking mid-range/budget lodging. For example, many travelers express surprise at the quality of mid-range accommodations in countries like Tanzania.
National park fees and 4×4 vehicles
Park fees are another significant element of safari costs. Daily park fees and vehicle costs have a high impact on daily expenses, contributing significantly to the total costs. These prices may seem paradoxical given the widespread poverty in some parts of Africa.
However, it is important to note that the primary audience for these services is not the local population, who typically do not go on safaris (and would have significant discounts on fees and accommodations anyway). Most costs and services are determined by the needs and expectations of international tourists accustomed to a certain level of service and comfort. As a result, safaris in Africa are priced and optimized for international tourism.
Although the cost of a safari may seem high, it is reflective of the extraordinary circumstances and efforts involved in providing such a unique and unparalleled experience in some of the most remote and beautiful places in the world.
Expectations during a safari
Embarking on a safari in Africa is an adventurous and deeply enriching experience that typically includes a series of game drives – the heart of the safari adventure. These are excursions into the wild, where several hours, if not whole days, are spent in a 4×4 vehicle, traveling through different landscapes in search of wildlife. The time spent in the vehicle can vary from short journeys of a couple of hours to full-day expeditions that include packed meals.
The roads
Those participating in a safari should be prepared for poor infrastructure; the roads within reserves and parks can be rough and challenging, with stretches of uneven and unpaved road. This adds to the authentic feel of the safari but also requires a certain level of physical resilience from travelers.
Comfort
Comfort during the journeys is essential, so it is usually recommended to wear appropriate clothing and bring essential items such as binoculars, cameras, sunscreen, and plenty of water. It is also important to have realistic expectations; wildlife sightings are not guaranteed, and patience is often the key. The hours in the car might not always be comfortable, depending on the road conditions.
Even with high-quality accommodations, keep in mind that there may be disruptions, lack of electricity, or out-of-service Wi-Fi.
The unpredictability of the game drive
Each game drive can be unpredictable, with moments of tranquil landscapes punctuated by the frenzy of sudden animal encounters. You never know what you might see during a game drive. You might have lucky days or unlucky days.
But if it turns out to be an off-day, meaning you see few animals (or fewer than you hoped for), remember that a safari can be an engaging way to connect with nature and witness the raw beauty of the wild, but it’s a true adventure that comes with its own set of challenges and rewards.
