A safari is planned in the opposite order to most trips. The season determines where the wildlife will be, the camps book out first, and flights are arranged around both.
Decide in this order
- When you can travel, and what that season means for wildlife viewing
- Which country and parks suit that season
- Which camps have availability — then reserve them
- International flights, then internal bush flights
- Entry requirements, health preparation and insurance review
How long to stay in each camp
Three nights per camp is the sweet spot. Two works; one night means an arrival afternoon and a departure morning with little in between.
Lodge or tented camp
Both are comfortable. Lodges offer more space and facilities; tented camps place you closer to the sounds of the bush and are usually smaller. Many itineraries combine the two.
Luggage and bush flights
Light aircraft between camps impose strict limits, commonly around 15 kg in a soft-sided bag. Plan your packing around that figure from the start rather than at the end.
Budget shape
Camps, internal flights and park fees usually account for most of the cost. Shortening the trip saves less than you might expect; reducing the number of camps often saves more.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How far ahead should I book?
- Nine to twelve months for peak-season camps, which are reserved before international flights.
- Is a safari suitable for a first trip to Africa?
- Yes. Camps and operators handle the logistics, and guided game drives are structured and well organised.