Planning a safari can be both exciting and daunting. With so many details to consider—when to go, which destinations to prioritize, and how to fit it all into your budget—planning a safari can feel like a wild journey of its own.
If you feel the same, then this guide is for you.
In this guide, you’ll find everything you didn’t know about planning a safari, from the best seasons and top destinations to budget-friendly tips for every traveler.
The best season for your African safari depends on what you want to experience. Here is an overview of the seasons that you can consider for your safari:
The dry season is universally regarded as the best time to go on a safari, especially in regions like East Africa (Kenya, Tanzania) and Southern Africa (Botswana, South Africa). During this period, vegetation is sparse, making it easier to spot animals as they gather around dwindling water sources.
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The wet season offers a completely different safari experience. The landscapes are lush and green, and while it may be harder to spot animals due to dense vegetation, this is a great time for those interested in birdwatching and seeing newborn animals.
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Africa offers an array of safari destinations, each with unique ecosystems, wildlife, and cultural experiences. Let’s get an overview of some safari destinations:
Famous for the Great Migration, Kenya’s Masai Mara is a dream destination for safari lovers. Between July and October, over 1.5 million wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles cross the Mara River, providing one of the most dramatic wildlife spectacles on Earth.
Tanzania offers the quintessential African safari experience. The Serengeti is known for its vast plains and abundant wildlife, while the Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, boasts one of the densest concentrations of wildlife in Africa.
Kruger is one of the largest game reserves in Africa, known for offering affordable yet premium safari experiences. It’s particularly appealing to first-time safari-goers as the infrastructure is well-developed, and the range of accommodation options suits all budgets.
For a more exclusive safari experience, Botswana’s Okavango Delta is the place to be. This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers a unique opportunity to explore the waterways by boat, providing a fresh perspective on African wildlife.
Namibia offers a safari experience unlike any other. In Etosha National Park, you can see desert-adapted species that thrive in arid conditions, such as elephants, lions, and oryx.
One of the most common misconceptions about safaris is that they are prohibitively expensive. While it’s true that luxury safaris can be costly, there are options for all types of travelers.
Here’s how safari budgets typically break down:
These are the epitome of comfort and exclusivity. With private game reserves, luxury lodges, and tailored experiences, you can expect private game drives, gourmet meals, and highly personalized service.
Mid-range safaris strike a balance between comfort and cost-effectiveness. You’ll stay in comfortable lodges or tented camps with guided game drives, offering excellent wildlife viewing without the luxury price tag.
Yes, you can go on a safari even if you’re on a budget! Budget safaris usually involve group tours, staying at basic lodges, or camping in national parks. This option may lack some of the luxury, but it certainly doesn’t skimp on wildlife sightings.
We know that planning an African safari can be overwhelming, with budgeting, picking your destination & activities, plus what tour operator to work with. If you want to dig deeper into the best tips for planning your tour, we’ve compiled everything into this free safari planning guide! Partner with Good Earth Tours today to customize your African safari and get the best packages.
