Private vs Group Safari in Africa
Safaris are easily the best holiday activity out there. Visiting new places; seeing exciting things; and just experiencing something totally out of your regular routine sure makes for a fantastic experience. But how do you make sure your safari is all the more memorable? It starts with smart planning—like deciding between a private vs group safari experience.
Each offers its pros and cons. Keep reading to find the best fit for your trip.
What is a Private Safari?
A private safari is a tailor-made experience just for you (and the people you are traveling with). You will have your own vehicle, guide, and a flexible itinerary. You can customize it and switch things up based on your schedule and interests.
Pros of a Private Safari
Private safaris are fully personalized. You get to choose where to go, what to see, and how long to stay. You can stop for photos and spend more time at sightings. Basically, you get to adjust the trip to your pace.
A private safari is great for couples, individuals, and families who want a more intimate experience. You will stay in more upscale accommodations. In terms of conveyance, expect private transfers.
Cons of a Private Safari
Private safaris come at a premium. All the luxury and personalization come with a higher price tag, which feels all the more expensive if you’re traveling solo or as a couple. Also, there’s less chance for socialization. So if you enjoy meeting others on your travels, a private safari may deprive you of the camaraderie of a group setting.
What is a Group Safari?
A group safari joins a small group of travelers (often 6 to 12 people) who will be sharing a pre-set itinerary, vehicle, and guide. Experienced guides will lead these tours, which will be scheduled for specific departure dates.
Pros of a Group Safari
For one, a group safari is more budget-friendly. The total cost is shared among all the travelers, so you can expect to pay less. You also get a social atmosphere, where you’ll have the opportunity to meet like-minded people from around the world. And that’s not just during the trip. Many travelers stay in touch afterwards through social media, and then plan upcoming adventures together again, like climbing Mount Kilimanjaro.
A group safari is ideal for people who like to stick to a pre-planned itinerary without having to decide all the details. A group tour also takes the guesswork out of safari planning, so it’s suitable for first-timers.
Check out our: Group Tours
Cons of a Group Safari
On the flip side, following a fixed schedule means you get little flexibility. You won’t find yourself lingering at wildlife sightings (as in a private tour) and will have to follow the set group timings. Also, if your group members have different priorities, the group dynamics may affect the overall experience. You should also keep in mind that a group safari is less personalized, as the guide will balance the interests of the entire group.
Private vs Group Safari: A Quick Comparison
Go for a private safari if:
- You’re willing to pay $$$
- You want to set your own schedule
- You want excellent privacy
- You’re not fond of social interaction
- You’re a couple, family, or photographer
Go for a group safari if:
- You want a more affordable experience
- You’re OK with following a set itinerary
- You don’t mind lesser privacy
- You like to interact with other like-minded travelers
- You’re a solo traveler or first-timer
Let’s Plan Your Safari
We hope this guide helps you decide which private vs group safari is the right fit for your travel style and goals. If you need a hand, let’s chat and see which safari will give you the best experience.
