Craving the thrill of spotting lions lazing in the golden light? Or perhaps, the heart-stopping sight of a cheetah in full flight?
Maybe you imagine yourself sipping sun-downers under a canopy of stars. All while sharing stories with fellow adventurers. If adventuring with kindred spirits is your idea of an epic safari… a group tour is for you 💚 Even better if it’s amidst the allure of Africa!
But that’s not all of it…
Here at Good Earth Tours, we understand that enjoying Africa goes beyond its incredible wildlife. It’s about the connections you make—with the land, the animals, and yes, even the amazing people you share the experience with. That is exactly why we’re huge advocates for group safaris in East and Southern Africa—especially in the awe-inspiring destinations of Tanzania, Botswana, and South Africa.
Keep reading for the ultimate guide to group safaris, including what they are, why they’re oh-so-fantastic, and how to prepare for one!
During a group safari, you will experience an African wildlife adventure like none other. You typically travel with a set itinerary (and a group of other tourists—who you’ll most likely be meeting just for the safari).
If you can’t figure out whether or not a safari is for you, we’ve got you covered. This adventure is a perfect fit for travelers who love to do the following:
Very generally—a group safari is for adventurous souls 😉 Talking in detail, it can be the perfect choice for you if you are one of the following…
Group safaris are fantastic for more reasons than one—we’ll share the top ones below.
It’s true that a safari is not a really cheap vacation option, but you can save the cost when experiencing it with a group. This is because you will share the cost of a guide, a vehicle, accommodation, etc. (your tour operator will be responsible for it all). So, it’ll divide up the costs—and free up extra cash for those once-in-a-lifetime souvenirs. Or perhaps an exciting add-on experience like a hot air balloon ride over the savanna 😉
There really is something special about sharing extraordinary experiences with others. When on a group tour, you will be surrounded by fellow travelers who share your passion for wildlife—and adventure!
Think about swapping stories about that close encounter with a rhino over a campfire dinner—or cheering together as a majestic elephant herd crosses your path.
It gets even better!
At Good Earth Tours, we’re all about sustainable tourism and responsible travel practices. Group safaris are inherently more eco-friendly (as you’re going to be sharing resources such as vehicles, guides, etc.). This means we can minimize our footprint on these precious ecosystems. Plus, you’ll get the benefit of our expertise in responsible tourism—which means your safari will leave a positive impact.
Traveling solo in an unfamiliar territory… it can get a little overwhelming. But on a group tours, things will be different. You’ll have a built-in support system from the get-go. Plus, our experienced guides will be there to answer all your questions and navigate the landscapes. (And, of course, help you spot those leopards hiding high up in the trees!).
When you travel in a group, you don’t have to bear all the load. We mean, even if you forget that bottle of sunscreen, we’re pretty sure you’ll find some in a fellow traveler’s bag to share. Similarly, you can share that tube of toothpaste with a new friend who may have forgotten theirs.
This one’s straightforward. When you’re experiencing an African safari, you’ll feel more protected. Although very rare…if, for example, someone gets hurt, one person can hold their hand while the guide gives first aid as other members also help.
All of the above, while getting to watch wildlife up close on your migration safari!
With departure looming, we understand if those pre-trip jitters creep in. Here’s what to pack for your South Africa, Tanzania or Botswana safari to make the most of it—
Comfort is king (or queen) on safari! Pack lightweight and breathable clothing in neutral earth tones (think khaki, beige, olive green). These make sure you can blend into the environment.
You also want to stick to long sleeves and pants—as these can protect you from pesky insects. Make sure your shoes are sturdy, providing enough support to your ankles. Also, keep your hat(s), sunglasses, and swimsuit at hand. You never know when it may be sunny enough to stop for a dip at the lodge pool! 😉
Before you begin your African safari, you want to take all necessary steps for your health as well as safety. Firstly, get your vaccinations for your chosen destination. This may include yellow fever, hepatitis, typhoid, malaria, etc. (Be sure to speak to your doctor). We also recommend carrying along your personal first aid kit. Among other items, this will typically include over-the-counter medicines and sun protection.
You may not always have internet connectivity, so you want to keep important offline apps. Think translation tools, an offline map for navigation, copies of important documents and more.
Credit cards will work at most lodges, but cash will come in handy, too. Especially when you’re looking to buy a souvenir at a local shop—or covering some unexpected costs. However, your bills should be aged (minted in the last) 10 years or less… essentially the newer the better.
You want to keep in mind that you’ll be sharing your safari experience with a group. So, be prepared for noise levels during game drives and respect everyone’s personal space. Also, be willing to cooperate with the itinerary, especially set starting, meal and ending times for the best experience.
We hope you enjoyed this guide to group safaris as much as we did putting it together for you! An African safari is a great experience for anyone looking to enjoy wildlife with a group of new friends. If you’re interested—connect with us today to learn about our tours and booking options; we’ll be sure to make your itinerary and quote as customized as possible 🤍