Your Safaris of Africa Adventure Begins: Planning the Ultimate Wildlife Getaway
I’m stoked to be your guide on this virtual safari adventure and show you why Safaris of Africa are so darn remarkable. After over a decade of guiding and planning trips, I’ve seen countless itineraries, but nothing beats the raw excitement of being on an African safari.
We’ve gathered all the good stuff and top insider tips that will help you move past the planning stage and into the wild – literally. This is your ultimate resource, covering everything you need to know about safaris in Africa – so your trip isn’t just a holiday, but a genuinely life-changing experience.
Get in Touch to Book Your Dream Safari
Want to bring this guide to life? Our team at AJ Kenya Safaris loves crafting bespoke safaris tailored to your perfect adventure. Give us a call—James Maina, Gladys Mwangi, or me (Harrison Kamau) will be happy to chat at +254 719 222 430, +254 748 258 880, or +254 704 532 105.
Alternatively, fire off an email to james@ajkenyasafaris.com or safarioffers@ajkenyasafaris.com, and we’ll be happy to help plan a Nairobi safari or Tanzania safari that will leave you with lifelong memories.
The Ultimate African Safari Planning Guide
Going on a safari is just one of those things you do once in a lifetime, and getting it right is all about planning like a pro. Booking a flight isn’t enough. You’ve got to synchronise your travel plans with the wildlife’s movements, get a handle on what to expect in terms of costs, and figure out what kind of adventure you’re after.
This section is all about tackling the tough questions every newbie and old hand has when planning a trip. In this section, we break down the seasons, put a price tag on things, and explore the many different types of safaris out there. Getting a handle on these basics is the first step in making sure you get that dream trip.
When to Go: Getting a Grip on the African Safari Seasons
When it comes to making the difference between an excellent safari and an absolutely unforgettable one, timing tends to make all the difference. Africa’s not just got two seasons, you know – it’s got distinct climate types that affect the whole shebang: animal behaviour, how the landscape looks, and what you end up paying.
You need to know when it’s at its best and when you can get a good deal without sacrificing the views.
The Dry Season (The Peak Time For Game Viewing)
The dry season, June to October, is when it usually runs— it is the peak time for a classic safari experience. So why is it the best? Well, when there’s less rain, the plants get thinner and the water sources get smaller – so the wildlife ends up hanging out around the permanent rivers and waterholes.
Suddenly, spotting the Big Five isn’t just possible; it’s almost a certainty. The skies are clear, and the conditions are just about perfect for taking photos. On the downside, you’re not alone – you’ll find loads of other visitors at places like the Masai Mara and Serengeti, and lodges are at their priciest.
If you’re heading to South Africa and Kruger National Park, May to September is an excellent time for clear views—though be prepared for some pretty chilly mornings.
The Green Season (Wet Season)
The green season—or wet season—always runs from November to May, but start dates vary by region. Don’t be put off by the term “wet” – it’s a fair warning, but the truth is, even with all the rain, this is still a time of incredible natural beauty. The landscapes transform into lush, vibrant paradises that are absolute treats for photographers.
And the beauty of the green season is it’s a low-price time to visit, since hotels and lodges tend to drop their rates significantly. If you’re a bird enthusiast, you’ll love spotting the migratory species which arrive during this time, and the bush is teeming with new life. Not to mention the adorable baby animals born during this time—it’s a pretty emotional spectacle.
And predator activity is also on the rise. If you head to parks like Amboseli National Park in Kenya, or the Okavango Delta in Botswana, you’ll be in for a treat in the green season. A word of warning, though – the thicker foliage can make spotting game a bit more of a challenge, but the flip side is you’re more likely to find fewer tourists and a much more authentic – almost untouched – wilderness experience.
The Great Migration Calendar
The Great Migration isn’t just a one-off event that happens at a particular time of year—it’s a year-round phenomenon. Two million wildebeest, zebras and gazelles are constantly on the move, driven by a simple but enduring urge for water and fresh grazing.
- December to March: this is when the wildebeest in the Southern Serengeti, Tanzania, are in calving season.
- April and May: the great herd starts making its way north through the Serengeti – and sometimes has to face the dreaded long rains.
- June and July: the herds start gathering on the Grumeti River in the Western Serengeti – only to be tested by the first major crossing.
- August to October: the real drama begins at the Mara River, where wildebeest, zebras and antelope attempt to cross from the Northern Serengeti into the Masai Mara in Kenya. This is the most sought-after—but also the busiest—time to see the Great Migration.
- November: the migration starts to head back south towards the Serengeti.
How Much Does an African Safari Actually Cost? By Your Budget
The cost of a safari can range from a few hundred bucks a day to thousands, though that’s led many to think that safaris in Africa are reserved for the rich only. But here’s the thing we’ve learned: there’s a safari to fit almost any budget; you just have to know where to cut back and where it’s worth splurging.
Luxury Safaris
Luxury safaris are all about exclusivity and being pampered to the max—and that will set you back a pretty penny, upwards of \$1000-\$2500 per night, per person. You’ll be staying in 5-star lodges or even private tented camps that have got the lot: private pools, gourmet grub, fine wines on tap —the works.
And you get game drives within private reserves (think Sabi Sands in South Africa) with expert guides, meaning you can go off-road and even stick around after dark – something you can’t do in most national parks. That all-inclusive package will cover meals, drinks, laundry, activities and even get you flown in to save time and get you right into it.
Mid-Range Safaris
Mid-range is where you can balance your quality and cost expectations — usually around $400-$800 per person, per night. This is where you’ll find yourself in a reasonably comfortable, permanent tented camp or a lodge just outside the park, both of which are great ways to meet other travellers on your shared game drives.
And in places like Uganda and Kenya, you’ll get some top-notch guiding, a decent vehicle and some tasty food to keep you going. It’s the sweet spot for many people who want an excellent experience without breaking the bank.
Budget Safaris
We’re getting to the bottom end of the scale now, at around $200-$400 per person per night— though you can still get a delicious taste of the African bush with a budget safari. You’ll probably be staying in public campsites with dome tents or in some basic but clean guesthouses.
You might be in a smaller group in a safari minivan (that’s the usual in East Africa), or even go self-driving (that’s really popular in Kruger National Park). The big thing is, the wildlife is the same, no matter what kind of safari you’re on. I’ve even led trips in Amboseli National Park where the budget-friendly visitors spotted just as many elephants as the luxury lot.
Cost Breakdown
Planning a trip effectively is all about getting a handle on where all the money’s going. To do that, you need to break down the total cost into its main components:
- Flights: International travel will be a significant variable expense.
- Park Fees: These are non-negotiable and can be pretty steep, running $70-$200+ per person per day at the really top parks like Serengeti or Masai Mara.
- Accommodation/Logistics: This will vary depending on how luxurious you want to go.
- Tips/Gratuities: You’ll need to budget for your guide, tracker, and lodge staff.
Choosing the Right Safari Experience
The term “safari” is just a Swahili word for journey, and your journey can be as adventurous as you like. We really encourage our travellers to think beyond the standard Land Cruiser game drive and find a style that matches their sense of adventure.
Classic Game Drive Safari
This remains the most popular way to see a tremendous amount of wildlife in a relatively short space of time. You’ll be out in a 4×4 vehicle with a pop-up roof during the cooler hours of the morning and late afternoon. For a country like Kenya, your driver-guide will be your best mate, spotting those elusive leopards and regaling you with stories about the unique ecosystem.
Walking Safaris
If you really want to get up close and personal with the African wildlife, a walking safari is the way to go. Pioneered in Zambia, particularly in South Luangwa National Park, this experience swaps sheer numbers of sightings for the really intimate stuff—the small five (that’s insects, tracks, dung, and botany for those not in the know).
With an armed guide and sometimes a spotter, you’ll gain a genuine appreciation for the ecosystem’s tiny details. It’s exhilarating, yet somehow also incredibly peaceful.
Water-Based Safaris
For a totally different take on the safari experience, why not try a water-based safari? The Okavango Delta in Botswana safari is world-renowned for its mokoro rides – a traditional dugout canoe gently poled through the delta’s channels lined with lily pads. The silence of this form of travel makes it perfect for birdwatching and for spotting creatures like red lechwe and hippos from down low.
Or try a boat safari on the Chobe River in Chobe National Park, or the Lower Zambezi in Zambia—the elephants and buffalo come to drink, and what an incredible sight that is.
Fly-in vs Driving Safaris
A driving safari – where you travel in your own vehicle between parks – makes sense for a South Africa safari or circuit in northern Tanzania when you’re on a budget and want to take in the scenery. On the other hand, a fly-in safari, which is common in Botswana and the Serengeti, involves hopping on a small bush plane to get from one camp to the next.
That’s a pretty expensive option, but you do save on travel time, which in turn gives you more time on the ground where you can really soak up the atmosphere. If you are after the ultimate in comfort and are used to being a bit more adventurous, then it’s the way to go.
East Africa vs Southern Africa – the ultimate showdown
For anyone planning a safari, the choice between East Africa and Southern Africa is the most significant decision you have to make. While both regions offer a first-class wildlife-viewing experience, they offer quite different styles and atmospheres.
Working out which is best for you is a critical part of planning, as your choice will determine everything from your budget to the type of vehicle you’ll be using. I’ve been lucky enough to travel in both, and what I’ve found is that it’s the subtle differences that really matter.
East Africa – the Land of the Great Migration (Kenya & Tanzania)
East Africa —Kenya and Tanzania—are the spiritual home of the classic savanna safari experience.
Focus: Open Plains, Big Herds, and a Taste of Culture
This region is all about the wide open spaces of the Serengeti – those endless grasslands that stretch as far as the eye can see. The focus here is on scale – you’re talking hundreds of thousands of animals, and the sheer spectacle of it all is just overwhelming. You get to see massive herds of herbivores stretching out to the horizon, and then there’s the chance to take in the views from Amboseli National Park, with Mt Kilimanjaro looming over the elephants.
Then, of course, there’s the chance to meet the local Maasai people – those guys in the red robes with a vibrant culture and traditions – and get a real insight into the region’s heritage. Activities like hot air ballooning over the plains are just the icing on the cake.
Key Destinations & Experiences
- Masai Mara (Kenya): This is one of those places known for its high concentration of predators, and the Mara River crossings are an absolute spectacle.
- Serengeti (Tanzania): The heart of the Great Migration, it’s got all the diverse landscapes – the southern short-grass plains, the northern woodlands, and everything in between.
- Ngorongoro Crater (Tanzania): It’s an old volcanic caldera that’s collapsed in on itself, creating a self-contained ecosystem teeming with wildlife, and game viewing at its most spectacular.
- Pros and Cons: East Africa is hands down the best choice for folks new to safaris—the viewing conditions are easy, and the landscapes are iconic. But in peak season, it can get pretty crowded at the hotter sightings, especially during river crossings.
Southern Africa: A Region That’s Got Everything & The Luxury to Match (South Africa, Botswana, Zambia)
Southern Africa is like a box of chocolates —you never know what you’re gonna get—but what you do get is a whole lot of diversity, from semi-arid deserts to lush riverine forests and the mighty Okavango Delta.
Focus: Private Reserves, Water-Based Safaris & High-End Lodges – The Works
In the south, the safari experience is all about exclusivity and high-end guiding. Places like Botswana and South Africa are the gold standard when it comes to private reserves, which let you get off-road and do night drives – a big no-no in most national parks.
The guiding standards are world-class, so you can expect to get up close and personal with the wildlife. All of this means you’ve got heaps of options, from mokoro rides in the Okavango to walking safaris in Zambia’s South Luangwa National Park. And the lodges? Well, they’re a cut above the rest, blending seamlessly into the landscape while still bringing all the modern comforts.
Key Destinations & Experiences
- Kruger National Park (South Africa): You’ve got the infrastructure sorted, self-drive options are easy, and getting to the private reserves like Sabi Sands is a breeze.
- Okavango Delta (Botswana): A UNESCO World Heritage Site that’s got a real wild west feel to it – pristine wilderness and water safaris galore, with elephants in their thousands and all the unique delta wildlife you can shake a stick at.
- Victoria Falls (Zimbabwe/Zambia): Okay, it’s not technically a game park, but it’s a must-stop and for good reason – the falls are just mind-blowing, and it’s an excellent jumping-off point for the best parks in the region.
- Pros & Cons: Southern Africa’s got off-road driving in spades, getting you up close and personal with the wildlife. But places like Botswana and Sabi Sands will always come with a price tag, reflecting the low-volume, high-value model they operate under.
Unforgettable African Adventures: A Taster of the Best Safaris
If you want to be the safari expert, you have to know your stuff – and that means giving Africa’s top safari countries the whole works. Each one has its own unique selling point; all you need to do is figure out where your interests lie.
Kenya & Tanzania: Where the Great Migration Makes an Impression
The Great Migration inextricably links these two eastern neighbours – and when it comes to getting up close and personal with big cats, Kenya is a top choice. You can’t go wrong with a visit to the Masai Mara – it’s like a playground for lions and cheetahs.
Meanwhile, a Tanzania safari puts the broader Serengeti ecosystem at your fingertips, including the incredible Ngorongoro Crater. If your main goal is to see the Great Migration in all its glory, and you don’t mind sharing the experience with fellow travellers, then this is definitely your destination.
South Africa: The Complete Package – Wildlife, Self-Drive & Urban Adventure
A South Africa safari is probably the most accessible and varied of all the options. It’s got the world-class Kruger National Park, where you can go at your own pace with a self-drive safari – and it’s also got luxury private reserves like Sabi Sands, where leopards are practically guaranteed.
Beyond the Big Five, South Africa’s got a whole lot more to offer, from wine country to Cape Town’s urban excitement, making it the perfect choice for a more extended, more varied holiday.
Botswana: For Those Who Want a Truly Exclusive Experience
Botswana’s tourism model is all about maintaining a high level of exclusivity and low impact. The result is a truly wild experience with no crowds to speak of. The Okavango Delta is the crown jewel here – and it’s the perfect place to try out a mokoro safari.
If you’re a seasoned traveller or you want a private experience with huge elephant herds, then Botswana is the place to go, particularly in Chobe National Park.
Uganda & Rwanda: Trekking in the Real Wild – Gorillas & Chimpanzees
If you want to experience something totally different, then a Uganda safari or Rwanda gorilla trekking adventure is the way to go. Tracking mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park (Uganda) or Volcanoes National Park (Rwanda) is a truly humbling experience – and it’s one that you’ll never forget.
Here, the focus is on trekking through dense, misty forests rather than vast open plains – so you’ll need to be prepared for a bit of a challenge.
Hidden Gems – Namibia & Zambia
For those looking to get off the beaten path and experience something truly unique:
- A Namibia safari has to be seen to be believed, with the stark, beautiful landscapes of Etosha National Park offering game viewing that often revolves around waterholes against the backdrop of the dramatic salt pan.
- A Zambia safari is the birthplace of the walking safari, especially in South Luangwa National Park. It’s a destination for the real enthusiast who values their guide’s expertise and the peace of an uncrowded experience.
The Wildlife Experience: What You’ll Actually See on a Safari
Let’s get real – the wildlife is the real star of the show. While the landscapes and lodges are undeniably beautiful, it’s the animals that create those unforgettable moments. I know from personal experience that the smell of dry earth after an elephant has wandered across the road, or the spine-tingling thrill of a lion’s roar in the dead of night, is something you just can’t put into words.
What we need to make sure you understand is the main animals you can expect to encounter, and the best way to see them without compromising the experience.
The Big Five: A Brief History of How These Animals Became the Most Sought-After
The term Big Five—Lion, Leopard, Rhino, Elephant, and Buffalo—was coined by hunters long ago, referring to the five most difficult and dangerous animals to hunt on foot. These days, it just represents the top prize for photographers.
- Lion: You see plenty of them in the Masai Mara and Serengeti, and often find them lounging around on some of the more prominent rocks in the Kruger.
- Leopard: Sighting one of these elusive creatures is always a highlight, and you’ve got a good chance of spotting them in the private reserves of Sabi Sands in South Africa and South Luangwa in Zambia.
- Rhino (Black and White): These guys are really protected now, but if you’re keen to see them, the Ngorongoro Crater in Tanzania and the Ol Pejeta Conservancy in Kenya are among the best places to do so.
- Elephant: You should see loads of them in Amboseli National Park in Kenya and Chobe National Park in Botswana, particularly if you time your visit right.
- Buffalo: These guys are everywhere, often just grazing away in big herds throughout all the major parks.
The Great Wildebeest Migration: What It Is, Where to See It, and When to Catch the Crossings
Imagine nearly two million animals making their way on a never-ending circuit – that’s what the Great Wildebeest Migration is all about. The real highlight is watching the mass chaos as the wildebeest plunge into the Mara or Grumeti rivers, which usually happens between July and October.
If you want to increase your chances of seeing this spectacle, you need to book your camp in the northern sections of the Serengeti or the Masai Mara’s private conservancies a full year in advance—trust us, it gets booked up fast.
Beyond the Big Five: Cheetahs, African Wild Dogs, and Birdlife
Don’t get me wrong – the Big Five are fantastic, but they shouldn’t overshadow the rest of the incredible creatures out there.
- Cheetahs: These speed demons are a real treat to see in the open plains of the Masai Mara and Serengeti.
- African Wild Dogs: These highly endangered, fascinating pack hunters are always a thrill to see (if you’re lucky enough to spot them). Botswana and the Selous in Tanzania are your best bets.
- Giraffes, Hippos, Zebras, and Antelopes: These herbivores are the heart and soul of the savanna.
- Birding: Africa is a paradise for birdwatchers. A Namibia safari around the Etosha waterholes or a Zambia safari will introduce you to a whole load of species, from the flamboyant Lilac-breasted Roller to the massive raptors.
Safari Etiquette: Don’t Be That Tourist on Game Drives – Keep it Respectful
A traveller worth their salt is respectful of the great outdoors. Our guide today is hitting home the fact that all of us must follow these simple rules:
- Listen to Your Guide: If this is your first time game driving, trust us and keep your feet on the pavement (well, in the vehicle). Unless you’ve got exclusive access to a private reserve, don’t expect to go off-roading.
- Keep Some Distance: Maintain a safe distance from wildlife. We’re not looking for selfies here.
- No Sustenance for the Locals: Never, ever feed the animals. You think you’re being all cute and whatnot, but trust us, you’re only causing harm.
- Zip It: When we’re viewing a sighting, keep your voice down and turn your phone off. This helps everyone keep the peace, and for the animals to behave naturally.
The Nitty Gritty Pre-Safari Checklist
Before you book, make sure you’ve got your ducks in a row. Not only will it save you hassle later on, but it’ll also ensure you get the most out of your experience.
Your Safari Packing List – Don’t Get Caught Out
This is a must for all you practical folk out there. With the temperature and terrain changing daily, you don’t want to be stuck in a situation where you wish you’d brought that extra fleece or a water bottle.
- Dress for the Occasion: It starts chilly, then gets boiling. Then it cools off again. Get the picture? Pack up some layers that won’t make you look like a mushroom.
- Stick to the Shades: I mean, think earth tones here – greens, browns, the works. Try to steer clear of white (all that dust and eyesore) and blue and black (the tsetse flies will thank you).
- Proper Gear: Do yourself a favour and don’t skimp out on the binoculars. Leave the bog-standard pair of vehicles behind.
- Luggage: When you’re flying in or taking a light aircraft, there’s usually a weight limit (15-20kg is usually the cut-off). Don’t be that guy trying to sneak a few extra bags in.
Health and Safety: Don’t be a Rookie
When it comes to safari-touring in Africa, health and safety are top of mind.
- Malaria – the Big One: Most places you’re heading have some risk of malaria. Get some advice from the doc. Prophylaxis and get on with it.
- Vaccs: Check your vaccinations. You’ll need to sort out Yellow Fever for specific countries in East and Southern Africa.
- Protect That Skin: Africa’s sun is no joke. Don’t be the moron who forgets the sunscreen and gets a burn.
Choosing the Right Operator – Make Sure They’re On it
Your safari operator is basically your best mate for the next few days, so make sure they know what they’re doing. Ask the right questions:
- Get to Know Them: How long have they been running this show? What’s the max number of people on a trip? Do they own the vehicles and the guides or outsource everything?
- Accreditation: Look for some of the good guys — KATA and ASATA — as markers of a reputable operator.
Cultural Considerations
Engaging with local communities on your trip makes all the difference.
- Respecting Local Communities: When you want to take a photo of local people, especially in villages like those of the Maasai or San communities, don’t just start snapping away—ask for permission first.
- Buying Souvenirs: If you want to support local communities, then buying their crafts directly from them is the way to go. That way, you can be sure your cash is going straight into local pockets.
- Tipping: As a general rule, tipping guides and lodge staff is expected and would be considered polite. Don’t forget to check with your operator for their local guidelines.
Top Destinations: Country-Specific Safari Highlights
The truth is, the real fun of planning a safari starts when you start to get a feel for the exact kind of wilderness that speaks to you. You shouldn’t just go for the generalised bucket-list type destinations; you want the inside scoop on the highlights of the major safari spots in Africa – and that means giving you a breakdown of the must-see places in each country.
This way, you can get to know precisely which country and which park – think the Masai Mara or the Okavango Delta – will deliver on your wildest wildlife dreams.
East Africa – Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda & Rwanda
Destination | Top Place to Visit | Unique Attraction |
Kenya Safari | Masai Mara, Amboseli National Park, Ol Pejeta, Lake Naivasha | Annual migration, Big Cat Density, Views of Mt. Kilimanjaro |
Tanzania Safari | Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire | Wide-scale migration, Big five viewing in the caldera |
Uganda Safari | Bwindi Impenetrable National Park | Mountain Gorilla Trekking, Chimpanzee Tracking |
Rwanda Safari | Rwanda Gorilla Trekking | Exclusive and high-end gorilla tracking experience |
Southern Africa – South Africa, Botswana, Zambia, and Zimbabwe
Destination | Top Places to Visit | Unique Attraction |
South Africa Safari | Kruger National Park, Sabi Sands | Self-drive options, luxury private reserves, Western Cape add-ons |
Botswana Safari | Okavango Delta, Chobe National Park | Water-based mokoro safaris, massive elephant herds, and low-volume tourism |
Zambia Safari | South Luangwa National Park | Birthplace of the walking safari, phenomenal guiding |
Zimbabwe Safari | Victoria Falls, Hwange National Park | Spectacle of Victoria Falls, excellent combined safari options |
Hidden Gems of the Wild
For the seasoned traveller with a taste for the unusual, a Namibia safari in Etosha National Park offers a one-of-a-kind desert-adapted wildlife experience well worth exploring. Alternatively, if you’re after a genuine ‘Old Africa’ adventure, then you’ll find what you’re looking for in the remote and unspoiled wilderness of South Luangwa National Park in Zambia – a place that’s perfect for a thrilling night drive or a leisurely walking safari.
Suppose you’re looking for something really unique. Why not try the wild island of Madagascar, where you can combine a safari with the chance to spot lemurs and experience some of the most fascinating biodiversity on the planet.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Safaris in Africa
Let’s now look at some of the commonly asked questions about an African safari.
How long should I plan for a safari to really get the most out of it?
7 to 10 days is the bare minimum needed to do a safari justice. You can easily visit two or three different parks without having to rush around (e.g. the Masai Mara and Amboseli are a great combination), and longer stays – even 14 days – give you the chance to really explore the regions, such as doing a Kenya safari and then heading to the beach in Diani, or combining a South Africa safari with some time in Cape Town.
Is it really safe to go on a safari in Africa at the moment?
Believe it or not, safari camps are often miles away from the nearest town, and the operators take safety very seriously. They follow strict rules to keep both you and the wildlife safe – so as long as you follow your guide’s advice and use the same common sense you would anywhere else in the cities, you’ll have a fantastic and totally safe trip.
What’s the difference between a National Park and a Private Conservancy?
Well, National Parks are run by the state and have strict rules—no off-road driving, no night driving, etc. But Private Conservancies, like those on the edge of the Masai Mara, are privately owned and managed, and they allow your guide to drive wherever they need to to get you to the best sights – often ending up with a much more exclusive and flexible game viewing experience. And, of course, they also offer activities like night drives and walking safaris that you can’t do in a National Park.
Should I go for a Fly-In or a Driving Safari in the Serengeti/Masai Mara?
When it comes to the Migration season, ditching the long drive and going for a fly-in safari makes total sense – you’ll get to the remote camps way faster. The only catch is it’s going to cost you a pretty penny. If you’re on a tighter budget, a driving safari is a much more affordable option and gives you the chance to see the changing landscapes between parks—the scenery’s a big part of the fun. If you’re short on time, though, just bite the bullet and fly in.
Can I really combine a gorilla trek with a traditional safari?
The answer’s a resounding yes—it’s a super popular choice. You can easily knock off a short gorilla trek in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park (that’s Uganda or Rwanda for you) and then head out on a classic game viewing safari in Uganda or pop on over to Tanzania or Kenya. Just don’t forget to secure those gorilla and chimpanzee trekking permits in good time.
Is a self-drive safari a good option if you’re a first-timer?
A self-drive safari is a good, cost-effective option, especially in South Africa’s Kruger National Park, where the roads are in great nick and the infrastructure is top-notch. However, if you’re off to the East African parks like the Masai Mara or Serengeti, you’re better off hiring a pro, local driver-guide. Those roads can be pretty rough, and navigation can be a real challenge for the uninitiated.
About the Author – Harrison K. Irura – Profile
Harrison K. Irura is a total safari enthusiast and has spent over a decade working in the travel industry—he knows his stuff. With a degree from a Kenyan university, Harrison started in Human Resource Management but quickly switched to the travel sector, where his real passion lay. He’s a super knowledgeable and dedicated Travel consultant at AjKenyaSafaris.com.
Harrison is a member of the Kenya Association of Travel Agents (KATA) and is deeply committed to upholding industry best practices. Over the years, he has personally guided and travelled to all of Kenya’s top destinations – from Amboseli National Park to the Masai Mara, Lake Nakuru, Samburu, Ol Pejeta Conservancy, Tsavo and even the sun-kissed beaches of Diani. He’s the man to go to for creating unforgettable safaris in Africa.
