5 common questions about African Safaris

Nkonzi Bush Camp, South Luangwa National Park, Zambia

As magnificent and enigmatic as Africa is, it is understandable that there may be questions regarding African safaris.  At African Safaris Ltd, we are all about guiding you through the many thoughts, questions and options. 

Below are 5 common questions and add some flavour to your safari planning. 

1. Is an African safari worth it? 

This question is perhaps the easiest to answer! An African safari is more than just a holiday. It is an immersive experience that takes you deep into the heart of nature. Compared to the trudge of city life, the pace of an African safari is controlled by the rising and setting of the sun, with each moment in between a discovery.

The sheer diversity and abundance of wildlife Africa offers is unparalled. It is a continent where you may see the majestic Big 5, go gorilla trekking, see the Great Wildebeest Migration, and view many other species in their natural habitats. 

Furthermore, it allows you to immerse yourself in the cultures and traditions of the people that inhabit these wildlands. You can have dinner under the stars, listen to tribal stories, or tour local communities to learn about a way of life that is deeply rooted in the country. 

So, to put it simply, is an African safari worthwhile? Absolutely, positively, and unequivocally – it is!

2. Which Country Is Best for an African Safari? 

When selecting a safari destination it is important to consider what is important to you as a traveller.

For a Classic Big Five Safari 

If you want to meet Africa’s most famous wildlife characters, the classic A-listers (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino), look no farther than South Africa, Kenya, Tanzania, or Zimbabwe. 

For the Great Wildebeest Migration 

Witness the never-ending cycle of wildlife migrations in Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park and Kenya’s Maasai Mara National Reserve, impacted by the East African climate and the need for better grazing sites. 

For a Water-Based Safari 

For an African safari that perfectly mixes land and water-based thrills, go no further than Botswana’s Okavango Delta. Explore the meandering streams, marshes, and rivers by boat or mokoro (traditional dugout canoe), immersing yourself in the unspoilt beauty of this unique ecosystem. 

Additionally, the beautiful Victoria Falls and the Zambezi River, which forms a natural border between Zimbabwe and Zambia, are fantastic sites for an African safari that includes both land and water safari adventures!

For A Walking Safari 

There are many fantastic destinations to add a walking safari to your bucket list, but our top choice is South Luangwa National Park in Zambia. South Luangwa is known as the origin of the walking safari, and it urges you to embrace your adventurous spirit and take a stroll on the wild side. 

For Gorilla Trekking

Few experiences can compete with gorilla trekking for a unique and intimate encounter with our monkey cousins. When it comes to gorilla trekking, the two main areas are Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda and Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Uganda.

3. What is the price of an African safari? 

The budget for your African safari is determined by your destination, duration, group size, time of year of travel and desire for unique experiences. We are talking around US$ 200 to $2,000+ per person per night. 

It is essential to know the difference between a tour and a safari.

4. How much should you tip your safari guides? 

Tipping is a way to demonstrate gratitude and appreciation as you discover nature’s delights. While exact tip amounts are as elusive as a leopard in tall grass, an average safari tip ranges between US$ 10 and US$ $20 per person per day for your guide and the same per person per day for the camp staff. 

Once you have booked your safari with us, we provide tipping guidelines. 

5. When is the best time for an African safari? 

When planning your African safari, a bit of research can help you avoid unexpected plot twists. Imagine landing in Kenya, ready for the Great Migration, only to find that the star-studded cast is still performing in Tanzania . Not ideal! 

Where to go on safari in January?
Where to go on safari in February?
Where to go on safari in March?
Where to go on safari in April?
Where to go on safari in May?
Where to go on safari in June?
Where to go on safari in July?
Where to go on safari in August?
Where to go on safari in September?
Where to go on safari in October?
Where to go on safari in November?
Where to go on safari in December?

What you should keep in mind is the transition from dry to wet seasons in different places. Because of the scarce vegetation and restricted water sources, dry seasons are ideal for animal sightings, whereas wet or green seasons provide lush vistas, animal births, fewer crowds, and some affordable discounts. 

When it comes down to it, everything relies on your preferred safari style and destination.