Are you dreaming of a safari in Africa but not sure where to start? We've created a safari guide to help you find the best safari that's right for you.
Africa offers an enormous diversity of experiences, landscapes and wildlife. At the same time, there is a sea of lodges, campsites, national parks and private reserves to choose from. The differences are huge – both in price, standard and the safari experience itself. With over 26 years of experience in tailor-made trips in Africa, we know that the key to a successful safari is not just about where you travel, but how the trip is put together..
Safari is not just safari
Many people think that safaris are “the same no matter where you go.” That’s not true.
The difference lies in the details: where you live, who you travel with, how many cars are around you – and not least the knowledge of your guides. In some places you can experience having a pride of lions all to yourself. In other places there may be a queue.
Therefore, a good safari is primarily about making the right choices, based on what you actually want to experience. Different destinations offer different experiences.
How does a safari take place in practice?
A safari has its own rhythm, and it is often one of the things our guests appreciate most. The days start early, often with a cup of coffee or tea. At sunrise, the wildlife is most active, and you set off on a morning safari. You then return to the lodge for breakfast and relaxation.
In the middle of the day, the pace is slower. Perhaps you enjoy the view, a pool or just the silence of the bush.
In the afternoon you head out again, when the light is softer and the animals are on the move again. In many places the safari ends with a “sundowner” – something cold in a glass as the sun sets over the landscape. It’s a perfect balance between adventure and tranquility.
What do you dream of experiencing?
Before choosing a safari destination, you should think about what is most important to you and what other safari experiences you want to combine the safari with?
Is it the classic “Big Five”? Do you dream of experiencing the spectacular migration? Do you want to experience the mountain gorillas, or perhaps you want a more active safari on foot or on the water? Africa offers all of this, but not necessarily in the same place.
The clearer you are about what you want, the better the trip will be when we put it together!
Why does safari cost what it does?
Many people are surprised by the price level of safaris – until they understand what is actually included.
At most safari lodges, the price includes not only accommodation, but also all meals, daily safaris, guides, trackers and a high level of service.
In addition, many lodges are located in inaccessible locations, far out in the wilderness. In some places, all goods must be transported in by small plane or boat. At the same time, significant resources are invested in nature conservation, wildlife and local communities. Safari is therefore not just a journey – it is a holistic experience and a contribution to preserving nature and supporting local people.
Safari that contributes to something bigger
When you go on safari, you are also helping to make a difference. Revenue from safaris is crucial for protecting wildlife and nature, and for creating jobs in local communities. Many of the lodges and areas we partner with have a strong focus on sustainability and the conservation of natural areas.
More and more safari lodges are using renewable energy, actively working against poaching, helping to train local guides, and focusing on women. By choosing the right locations, you help support this development.
Quality, standards and service
There is a big difference on safari – and the difference is not always where you think.
Standard, food and comfort obviously play a role. But what really separates a good safari from a fantastic one is often the guides, the sustainability focus, the location and how well thought out the experience is.
In our experience, there is often a clear difference between 3-star and 4-5-star lodges, both in quality and what is included. Normally, we include all safaris, park fees and logistics to and from the safari. The most important thing is to choose the right place based on your expectations.
The 9 rules of safari etiquette
We Norwegians know the rules of mountain etiquette well and the same principles apply when you go on safari in Africa in terms of planning ahead, showing respect for nature and making good decisions along the way. After over 26 years of tailor-made trips, we have created our own safari etiquette rules, so that you get the most out of your trip.
Below is a recipe for what you should think about when planning your dream safari:
1. Plan your trip – and have it tailored by people who know how
Africa is vast and diverse. We help you shape your trip according to your desires, dreams and travel time. What is right for one traveler may not be right for another.
2. Customize your trip according to your budget and expectations
Safaris come in many varieties and price ranges. The most important thing is that the experience matches your expectations.
3. Take into account weather and seasons
Although Africa is often associated with heat, the climate and wildlife vary throughout the year, and the right time of year can make a big difference in the experiences you have.
4. Be prepared – and pack smart
You don't need much, but you need the right things. On safaris with small planes there are often restrictions on luggage.
5. Travel with the right people
Skilled and experienced safari guides make the difference.
6. Choose the right itinerary
A well-planned itinerary allows more time for adventures and less stress along the way. Experience and local knowledge are the keys to a successful safari.
7. Follow our advice and driving directions
Digital tools are useful, but nothing beats local expertise.
8. Safari happens on nature's terms
You can't book wildlife, but you can experience magical moments.
9 End with peace and enjoyment
After the safari, it's perfect to relax with quiet days on the beach.
Where do you want to go on safari?
Africa offers a number of fantastic safari destinations, each with its own unique characteristics. What animals do you want to see? What kind of landscape do you want to experience? When of the year are you going to travel, and what standard do you envision?
All of these questions are important to consider before deciding on a destination. Which country is best for you depends on what you want to experience – and when you plan to travel.
Safari in South Africa
South Africa is a great safari destination with consistently high standards of facilities, guides, food and service. South Africa is an easy destination to travel to as no visas or special vaccinations are required (and malaria-free in large parts of the country). Safaris in South Africa can easily be combined with other destinations such as Cape Town and Victoria Falls in addition to experiences such as rich culture, strong history, beautiful places and exciting city life.
Where: Zululand, Greater Kruger (areas such as Sabi Sand, Timbavati and Klaserie), as well as areas such as Madikwe and Welgevonden north of Johannesburg.
Season: All year.
Safari in Botswana
Botswana is considered one of Africa's most exclusive safari destinations - authentic, wild and spectacular. We recommend combining several areas to experience the variations - from classic safaris to boat safaris, walking safaris and mokoro.
Where: Okavango Delta, Moremi, Chobe, Makgadikgadi and Kalahari.
Season: Rainy season November–March. Dry season June–October results in high animal density in the delta.
Safari in Kenya
Kenya offers classic safaris with open savannas and abundant wildlife. Safaris in Kenya can easily be combined with some relaxing days on the coast or in Zanzibar.
Where: Masai Mara, Mara North and Naboisho Conservancy, Samburu and Kalama.
Season: The migration usually occurs July–November. Safaris are good all year round, but avoid the rainy season in April–May and November.
Safari in Zambia
Zambia is a safari enthusiast's paradise! Zambia offers a more raw and authentic safari experience, with some of Africa's best walking safaris. Zambia is still a relatively undiscovered safari destination among international tourists. Here you really get to experience wild Africa at its best.
Where: South Luangwa, Lower Zambezi, Liuwa Plains and Kafue.
Season: The best time is May–October. The rainy season (December–April) offers lush nature, but more challenging safaris.
Safaris in Zimbabwe
Zimbabwe is an undiscovered gem with amazing wildlife and fewer tourists.
Where: Hwange, Mana Pools and Lake Kariba.
Season: The best period is July–October.
Safari in Namibia
Namibia offers unique landscapes and a completely different safari experience. Namibia is mostly desert, but that doesn't mean the safari is boring, quite the opposite.
Where: Etosha, Kalahari and Damaraland.
Season: The best time is May–October, when the animals gather around waterholes.
It's not always easy to choose the right safari destination. That's why we always start with a conversation. Feel free to contact us - and we'll start planning together.
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