Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions About Planning a Safari
When is the best time of year to go on safari?
It depends on the destination and what you most want to experience.
Southern Africa (Botswana, South Africa, Zimbabwe): The dry season (May to October) is ideal for wildlife viewing.
East Africa (Kenya, Tanzania): For the Great Migration, aim for July to October.
Green Season (November to March): Offers lush landscapes, exceptional birdlife, fewer tourists, and better rates.
How much does a safari cost?
Safari pricing varies based on country, style, and season:
• Classic safari camps: from US$700–1,200 per person per day
• Luxury safaris: from US$1,500–2,000+ per person per day
• Ultra-luxury or specialist safaris: US$3,000+ per day
• Mobile safaris: offer excellent value with full-service experiences in more rustic settings
Is it better to book in advance?
Yes. For peak seasons or exclusive lodges, book 12–18 months in advance. That said, we can sometimes build outstanding safaris with less notice.
Is a safari safe?
Yes — when booked with a trusted operator and you follow your guide’s instructions. All our guides are professionally trained. We also monitor your trip in real time through our Safari Sentinel service.
We only recommend experiences and lodges we’d be happy for our own adult children to undertake as solo travellers.
What’s it like on a mobile safari?
Mobile safaris offer comfort, immersion, and flexibility. A typical day includes:
• Early wake-up, coffee and sunrise game drive
• Bush breakfast and midday rest
• Afternoon tea and evening game drive with sundowners
• Dinner and conversation around the fire
Spacious tents include real beds, private bucket showers, and en-suite toilets.
Do I have to help with camp chores?
No. Everything is taken care of — unless you’d like to join in!
How do I stay safe in cities and towns?
• Don’t display valuables
• Use a zipped daypack or crossbody bag
• Stick with pre-arranged transfers
• Lock vehicle doors and keep windows up at stops
• Be respectful and avoid confrontational behaviour with officials
Is there mobile reception or Wi-Fi?
Cities and towns have good coverage. Remote safari camps may have no reception and slow or no Wi-Fi.
• Use local SIM or data SIM
• Use WhatsApp for calls and messages
• Turn off international roaming unless prearranged
• Use a VPN when accessing personal accounts on public networks
How do I prepare for medical needs and vaccinations?
• Consult a travel doctor 6 months before departure
• Consider vaccines: Yellow Fever (if required), Hepatitis A/B, Typhoid, Polio, Tetanus, COVID-19
• Malaria prophylaxis may be required (e.g., Malarone or Doxycycline)
• Avoid Lariam and chloroquine
• Travel insurance with medical evacuation is essential
What should I pack for a safari?
• Neutral, breathable clothing (khaki, beige, green)
• Layers for warm days and chilly mornings
• Closed shoes or boots (required for walking safaris)
• Sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, insect repellent
• Camera, binoculars, power bank
• Duffel bag (not hard-shell luggage)
Is there a dress code at safari lodges?
Not at all. Lodges are casual and comfort is key. In cities, smart-casual is suitable for evenings out.
Dinner on a Rovos train is an elegant affair and "formal" attire is expected.
What are the luggage limits?
• Commercial flights: ~20kg checked + 7kg carry-on
• Safari flights: 15kg total in soft-sided bags only
• Hard-shell cases may be refused on charter/safari flights
• Luggage storage can be arranged if needed
Is laundry available on safari?
Yes — typically available at lodges for stays of two nights or more. One-night stops do not offer laundry services.
Do I need a visa?
• South Africa: Visa-free for AU/UK/NZ/USA
• Botswana: Visa-free for most Western travellers
• Kenya: eTA required for most Western travellers
• Namibia: Visa on arrival or eVisa required for most Western travellers
• Tanzania: eVisa required for most Western travellers
• Uganda: Visa required for most Western travellers
• Zambia: Visa not required for most Western travellers
• Zimbabwe: Visa on arrival or eVisa required
Ensure your passport is valid for 6 months beyond your return and has two blank facing pages per country.
How much should I tip?
• Guides: US$10–$20 per person/day
• Lodge staff: US$10–$15 per person/day (via tip box)
• Porters/drivers: US$1–$2 per bag/service
• Restaurants: 10–15%
Carry small USD notes or local currency for tipping.
Can I add other destinations to my safari?
Yes. Many guests combine safaris with Cape Town, Victoria Falls, Zanzibar, wine country, cultural stops, or a beach break. Just ask!
Can I make this a private safari just for me and my friends?
Yes — subject to availability. Private departures are popular for families and groups of friends. Early enquiries are best.
How do I book?
Contact us through our Contact Page or email [email protected].
We’ll guide you through itinerary options, then connect you with our trusted agent to confirm your trip.
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