Plan with confidence
Safari planning guide
Everything you need to know before your African safari, from what to pack to what to expect on your first game drive.
Quick tips
Book flights early, especially for peak season (July-October)
Spend at least 3-4 nights on safari for the best experience
Full moon periods can reduce night-time wildlife activity
Private safaris offer flexibility; group safaris offer value
Always purchase comprehensive travel insurance
Check visa requirements well in advance of travel
Chapter 01
What to Expect on Safari
A typical safari day starts early, often before dawn. You'll head out on a morning game drive when wildlife is most active, returning to camp for brunch and rest during the midday heat.
Afternoon drives begin around 3-4pm and often extend into sunset, when predators become active. Some parks allow night drives with spotlights to find nocturnal species.
Game drives are conducted in open-sided 4x4 vehicles with pop-up roofs for photography. Your guide will have expert knowledge of animal behaviour and tracking.
Chapter 02
What to Pack
Neutral-coloured clothing
Khaki, olive, beige, avoid bright colours and white
Layers
Mornings and evenings can be surprisingly cold, even in Africa
Comfortable walking shoes
Closed-toe for bush walks, sandals for camp
Sun protection
Wide-brimmed hat, sunscreen SPF 50+, sunglasses
Binoculars
Essential for birdwatching and distant wildlife
Camera with zoom lens
200-400mm recommended for wildlife photography
Torch / headlamp
Camps often have limited lighting at night
Insect repellent
DEET-based for malaria areas
Chapter 03
Safari Photography Tips
Bring a camera with a good zoom lens (200-400mm). A beanbag is more practical than a tripod in a safari vehicle.
The golden hours, just after sunrise and before sunset, offer the best light. Midday light is harsh and flat.
Be patient and let moments unfold. Some of the best wildlife images come from waiting for behaviour rather than chasing animals.
Keep your camera ready at all times. Wildlife encounters can be sudden and brief.
Chapter 04
Health & Safety
Consult your doctor about malaria prophylaxis, yellow fever vaccination, and other travel vaccines at least 6-8 weeks before your trip.
Travel insurance is essential. Ensure your policy covers medical evacuation, which can be very expensive in remote safari areas.
Always follow your guide's instructions around wildlife. Never leave the vehicle without permission, and maintain a safe distance from all animals.
Drink bottled or purified water. Most safari lodges and camps provide safe drinking water.
Chapter 05
Safari Budget Guide
Budget safaris
$150-250/day: camping, group tours, basic lodges
Mid-range safaris
$300-600/day: comfortable lodges, private vehicles
Luxury safaris
$700-1,500/day: premium lodges, exclusive concessions
Ultra-luxury
$1,500+/day: fly-in camps, private guides, all-inclusive
Prices typically include accommodation, meals, game drives, and park fees. International flights and travel insurance are usually extra.
Chapter 06
Best Time to Visit
The dry season (June-October) is considered peak safari time in East Africa. Wildlife concentrates around water sources, making game viewing easier.
The Great Migration river crossings happen between July and October in the Masai Mara and northern Serengeti.
The green season (November-May) offers lush landscapes, fewer tourists, lower prices, and excellent birdwatching. Calving season in the Serengeti (January-February) is a highlight.
Southern Africa (South Africa, Botswana) has opposite seasons, their dry winter (May-September) is prime safari time.
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