Dreaming of Africa
Embarking on a safari adventure is an extraordinary experience that allows you to immerse yourself in the breathtaking landscapes and awe-inspiring wildlife of Africa. There is nothing like waking up before the sun, grabbing a cup of coffee and venturing out into the bush. Seeing the beauty of these animals in their natural habitat is an experience travelers will never forget.
Once you go, you will want to return over and over again. This isn’t the type of trip where you try and pack in as many countries as possible. This is an experience not a checklist. With Africa you need to slow it down, relax and experience it.
So how do you choose? Which destination do you start with? When should you go? There are so many options and decisions that go into creating a truly memorable African safari experience as a luxury travel advisor, my job is to guide you through what is the best option for you that will give you the memorable experience you are hoping for.
Where to go?
The most popular destinations for a true safari experience are Botswana, Kenya, South Africa and Tanzania. Think through a list of what animals are priority for you, what types of experiences you want to have whether that be an up close encounter with a gorilla or a chance to spot each of the big five and that will help narrow down where to start.
If you are interested in Gorilla trekking, Uganda and Rwanda are the best countries to visit.
When looking for a bit of everything Africa offers., South Africa is perfect for travelers who want to experience Safari, city and culture, adventure, winelands and beach.
For the classic safari experience with the highest chance of animal encounters, countries like Botswana and Tanzania are great countries to start with.
When to go?
Once you have narrowed down the destinations in Africa you want to explore that will help in deciding what time of year is best.
For Botswana, September and October tend to be best for optimal animal viewing as these are the months with lowest rainfall. South Africa is perfect April through September when the season is driest and animals gather around watering holes for a mid afternoon cool off.
If the Great Migration is on your list, you’ll want to explore the Serengeti in Tanzania from November to July and Kenya’s Masai Mara from August to October.
Where to stay?
From luxurious lodges to rustic tented camps, safari accommodations offer a range of choices, each providing a unique and unforgettable experience.
For a truly luxurious experience, luxury lodges offer the best in comfort and style in the heart of the wilderness. You can expect a stand alone villa or suite with a private terrace or plunge pool. Most have exceptional service and amenities like spas and fine dining options. Luxury lodges provide a perfect blend of nature and refined luxury, allowing guests to unwind in style while immersing themselves in the wonders of the safari.
Tented Camps are for those seeking an authentic experience without compromising comfort and amenities. They provide the thrill of sleeping under canvas with modern amenities. Tents often include spacious, beautifully furnished bedrooms and en suite bathrooms. Tented camps allow visitors to feel closer to the wildlife and the sounds of the bush, creating an unforgettable connection with the natural surroundings.
One thing to consider is whether your lodge is a part of a national park or a private conservatory. Private conservatories often provide the most exclusive type of safari experience as well as being a more sustainable and animal friendly option. They typically have stricter rules on the treatment of animals within the conservatory. Only vehicles belonging to the lodges within the conservatory are allowed to drive on the land, which means you won’t be watching a pride of lions sleep while surrounded by 50 other vehicles.
Each traveler has their own vision for what they want a Safari experience to be. It is important for you to work closely with a travel advisor that can really help you navigate all the ins and outs of a trip like this. As a luxury travel advisor, my goal is to curate a personalized safari experience for my clients that helps alleviate overwhelm and create a truly once in a lifetime experience.
