Everything You Need to Know About Planning an African Safari
Over the years, we’ve accumulated a vast array of useful information and resources to answer common questions about safaris and enhance your travel experience. We regularly update this section with new content based on questions from our valued guests. You’re invited to browse through the various links below, or you can choose to download our detailed handbook. This guide is specially created to fully prepare you for your exciting journey into the breathtaking landscapes of Africa.
For an exceptional African safari experience, we advise dedicating at least ten days. This duration accounts for a smooth time zone adjustment and minimizes the impact of potential jet lag. To make the most of your adventure, consider including two or more safari destinations in your itinerary, with stays of three to four nights at each. This approach ensures a well-rounded experience with diverse wildlife encounters, allowing you to savor every moment without feeling rushed.
The optimal time for a safari varies based on your destination and desired experiences. In Southern Africa, the dry season, from June to September, is often favored for game viewing. Yet, the shoulder season also holds its own unique charm.
Keep in mind, a safari curated by experts familiar with the region can be extraordinary any time of the year, offering remarkable wildlife sightings and stunning landscapes across the continent each month. Nonetheless, some events, such as the renowned Great Migration crossings, are tied to specific seasons.
Here is a summary of the best times to go on safari in popular safari countries. For more detailed information, click on the country name:
Tanzania: The best time is during the dry season, from late June to October, for wildlife viewing. This period includes the spectacular Great Migration river crossings in the Serengeti. Read more
Kenya: Ideal from July to October, coinciding with the Great Migration in the Maasai Mara. Dry weather during this period makes wildlife easier to spot. Read more
Uganda: For gorilla trekking, the dry seasons from December to February and from June to September are preferable. Wildlife viewing is generally good all year round. Read more
Rwanda: Similar to Uganda, the best times for gorilla trekking are during the dry seasons, from June to September and December to February. Read more
Zimbabwe: Like Zambia, the dry season from May to October is the optimal time for safaris, especially in Hwange National Park. Read more
Zambia: The dry season from May to October is best for wildlife viewing, with many animals congregating around the Luangwa and Zambezi rivers. Read more
South Africa: May to September (dry season) is ideal for game viewing, especially in Kruger National Park. Read more
Botswana: The dry months from May to October offer the best wildlife viewing, especially in the Okavango Delta and Chobe National Park. Read more
Namibia: Wildlife viewing is most rewarding in the dry season, from May to October, particularly in Etosha National Park. Read more
For Optimal Opportunities, Plan Well in Advance: More Time Equals More Choices! For instance, if you’re considering gorilla trekking in Rwanda or Uganda, it’s best to book a year or more in advance. Similarly, if you’re planning a safari during the holiday season and the new year, it’s advisable to make reservations over a year in advance.
When preparing for your African safari, it’s crucial to strike a balance between exciting adventures and peaceful moments of wonder. At BUSH 2 CITY ADVENTURE, our experienced team of travel experts is here to help you with every aspect of your trip, reducing stress and ensuring a seamless experience.
We customize your itinerary to match your specific preferences, whether you prioritize the location, the quality of service, or the overall smoothness of your journey. By understanding your expectations, activity level, family dynamics, and more, we can create the perfect safari plan for you.
To ensure we create an unforgettable and seamless experience, here are the key details we encourage you to share with us:
Travel Dates: Let us know your preferred travel dates, ensuring that we can arrange a safari that suits your schedule.
Duration: Inform us about the length of time you plan to spend on your safari adventure, allowing us to design an itinerary that makes the most of your time.
Budget: Sharing your budget range helps us tailor your safari to your financial comfort, including accommodations, activities, and dining preferences.
Group Size: Tell us the number of individuals in your party, along with any age considerations, so we can plan accordingly.
Interests and Preferences: Your safari dreams are unique, so discuss your interests, be it wildlife encounters, cultural immersion, adventure activities, or a blend of these experiences.
Wildlife Desires: If there are specific animals or regions you’ve been dreaming of, share your wildlife wishes with us to ensure we include them in your itinerary.
Accommodation Tastes: Describe your ideal accommodations – whether you envision luxury lodges, charming tented camps, or budget-friendly options, and any special amenities you desire.
Dietary Needs: Let us know about any dietary restrictions, allergies, or food preferences, so we can ensure your meals are both delicious and safe.
Health Considerations: Share any health concerns or physical limitations that might influence your safari activities or require special arrangements.
Travel Style: Your preferred travel pace matters – whether you prefer a leisurely journey with ample relaxation time or an adventurous, action-packed itinerary.
Special Occasions: If your safari coincides with a special occasion, such as a honeymoon, anniversary, or birthday, tell us about it. We can incorporate celebrations or surprises to make it even more memorable.
Cultural Interests: If cultural experiences are high on your list, let us know, and we can arrange opportunities to engage with local communities, attend cultural events, or participate in traditional ceremonies.
Previous Travel Experience: Sharing your past travel experiences and preferences helps us understand what has delighted you in the past and what you hope to discover on this safari.
Travel Insurance: Ensure you have suitable travel insurance coverage and provide us with details, so we can assist you if the need arises.
Travel Documents: Confirm that your passport is valid and inquire about any necessary visas for your chosen destination.
Selecting your destination is a crucial element when it comes to planning an African safari. Whether you’re drawn to the exclusive private game reserves of South Africa, the awe-inspiring savannah landscapes of Kenya, the serene delta of Botswana, or the hidden treasures of Zimbabwe and Namibia, each African nation offers exceptional and unforgettable experiences waiting to be explored.
For an unforgettable first-time safari that offers outstanding value, consider South Africa and Kenya. These destinations promise a blend of diverse wildlife sightings, cultural experiences, luxurious accommodations, and unique activities such as helicopter safaris, hot air balloon rides, and horseback riding. Both countries are easily accessible, featuring major airports with numerous airlines and direct flights from the USA.
For a serene island escape post-safari, Mozambique, Mauritius, and the Seychelles are perfect choices. These paradisiacal islands offer easy access and boast superb accommodation options, ideal for relaxation and rejuvenation.
When planning your safari, consider not just the wildlife and scenery, but also seasonal variations, accessibility, and transportation. Our experts are here to offer tailored advice, helping you weigh these factors to choose the perfect safari destination for your adventure.
When planning your safari, picking the right place to stay is important. In Africa, there are many options like fancy lodges, tented camps, and private villas. These are great for anyone – whether you’re alone, with your partner, your family, or in a big group. We always choose the best places so you’ll be happy with your stay.
Think about how close you’ll be to wildlife, what kind of services and comforts are offered, how much privacy you’ll have, and if the place cares about the environment. The price usually depends on how easy it is to see wildlife from there. Many lodges look nice online, but to really know which ones are the best, you need advice from experts who know the area well. They can help make sure your safari is amazing.
While traditional game drives are the typical choice for morning and evening activities, we highly recommend adding bush walks to your safari experience. These walks offer a unique and immersive way to get close to wildlife and truly be in the moment.
In our guide, we have sections dedicated to various safari activities and excursions that you should consider including in your itinerary based on your location. These options range from thrilling hot air balloon rides, helicopter tours with open doors (if you prefer), horseback riding, traditional mokoro canoe trips, boat excursions, cultural interactions with local communities, wildlife conservation experiences, and memorable dining adventures. These are the moments that will leave a lasting impression on Africa.
Planning an African safari with Bush 2 City Adventure is stress-free and places you in the capable hands of experienced experts. With decades of experience in Africa, our team knows how to make your journey accessible, extraordinary, and life-changing while respecting your time.
Our priority is your safety and well-being, and we take pride in creating memorable safaris that push boundaries.
Discover our luxury African destinations and experiences at BUSH 2 CITY ADVENTURE.
BUSH 2 CITY ADVENTURE’s luxury African safaris stand out due to their commitment to creating personalized travel experiences that not only offer comfort and style but also benefit local communities and natural environments. The company designs unique trips that focus on sustainability and support for local communities, ensuring that your journey is both enriching and impactful.
Arusha offers a variety of attractions beyond its role as a safari gateway. Some top places to visit include the Arusha National Park, known for its diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes, the Cultural Heritage Centre for a taste of Tanzanian art and culture, and the bustling Maasai Market for unique crafts and souvenirs. Additionally, Mount Meru provides opportunities for hiking and breathtaking views.
You can book a luxury African safari tour with BUSH 2 CITY ADVENTURE by visiting our website or contacting our travel specialists directly. We provide detailed information on our various safari packages and can assist you in customizing your itinerary to match your interests and preferences.
During a 7-day Tanzania safari, you can expect a blend of breathtaking landscapes and wildlife encounters. Your journey will start in Arusha and cover iconic locations like Tarangire National Park and Ngorongoro Crater. You’ll experience game drives, luxury lodgings, and the chance to witness the Great Wildebeest Migration in the Serengeti.
At a luxury lodge in the Serengeti, you can expect plush accommodations with elegant décor, private decks, and possibly even plunge pools or spa services. The lodges typically offer guided safari tours, fine dining experiences, and a high level of service to enhance your overall safari adventure.
Key Preparation and Expert Tips:
Effective planning is crucial, considering unique factors like wildlife etiquette and vaccination requirements. Join us as we explore these planning intricacies and share expert safari tips that B2C ADVENTURE will expertly handle, ensuring a remarkable African journey.
Africa’s captivating natural beauty and thriving wildlife lure adventurers, and your safety is our top priority. When embarking on a safari, you can trust the guidance of our experienced safari guides, carefully chosen to ensure that you respect local customs and wildlife.
Let there be no doubt: an African safari is a secure experience. Whether you’re seeking a classic or luxury adventure, it offers safety and life-changing moments for families, couples, and solo travelers alike. Notably, Rwanda, a destination where you can trek to see wild mountain gorillas, ranks as the world’s second-safest country for solo female travelers.
Safety levels don’t vary significantly among safari destinations, but selecting a reputable luxury travel company like B2C Adventure is essential. We have robust safety measures in place, ensuring your peace of mind and comfort. We exclusively operate in East and Southern African countries that we consider our home, fostering a profound connection and shared experience with our travelers.
Africa’s diversity is truly captivating. When planning a safe safari experience, start by choosing experienced experts and respecting your surroundings. Safety is a top priority on safari, but you’ll be close to untamed wildlife, including some of Africa’s most impressive animals like:
>Hippos
>Buffaloes
>Lions, and
>Elephants.
Remember to follow proper wildlife etiquette and listen to the experienced guides from B2C Adventure. Whether you’re on a walking safari or observing wildlife from a safari vehicle, always stay alert and show respect for the animals. Keeping quiet and calm in their presence ensures your safety and provides incredible up-close encounters.
Interestingly, some might say the most dangerous creature in Africa isn’t the large animals you’d expect, but a tiny insect—the anopheles mosquito, which can transmit malaria. However, the risk of malaria depends on the altitude, and many destinations are malaria-free. If you’re visiting a malaria-prone area, follow the advice and take precautions, such as:
>Using anti-malarial tablets and
>Insect repellent
>Wearing long-sleeved clothing at night, and
>Sleeping under a mosquito net.
Planning an African safari isn’t a one-size-fits-all task. Exploring the cosmopolitan city of Cape Town in South Africa offers a completely different experience compared to embarking on a journey into Tanzania’s Serengeti bush. The logistics for a jungle trek are significantly different from those required for a desert game drive or ascending Mount Kilimanjaro.
When you opt for B2C Adventure, our carefully selected specialist guides and our dedicated on-ground team in Africa are available around the clock to assist you with every aspect of your safari experience. They will help you navigate the logistics for your personalized itinerary, ensuring a seamless and stress-free journey.
However, it’s essential to keep in mind that some general safari tips can be valuable as you plan your unforgettable adventure in Africa.
However, it’s essential to keep in mind that there are some general safari tips that can be valuable as you plan your unforgettable adventure in Africa.
Do You Need a Visa for Your Trip to Africa? Whether you require a visa for your African journey depends on your departure location and your chosen destination. In general, visas are commonly required but relatively easy to obtain. For example, South Africa allows visitors from the United States and Europe to stay for up to 90 days without a visa.
Our team of African specialists is committed to making your safari experience stress-free. We provide comprehensive information well in advance, including visa requirements, passport validity, and other essential documents. Our straightforward instructions will help you through the process with ease.
Like any international travel, it’s important to ensure your travel documents, such as passports, remain valid for the entirety of your journey, typically six months from your departure date from Africa after your safari ends. Additionally, having at least two blank visa pages is recommended.
Here’s a brief summary of passport and visa requirements for some of our popular safari destinations:
TANZANIA VISA REQUIREMENT:
Visas are required to enter Tanzania, and you can apply for a visa online or upon arrival. Bush 2 City Tanzania recommends applying for a tourist visa online before your arrival, as this speeds up the process.
This can be conveniently done online via: https://visa.immigration.go.tz/
Applying upon arrival means waiting while the visa is processed, which could add hours.
Tourist visa fees differ based on your country of origin. Tanzania also distinguishes between single-entry visas, which are available to all other nationalities except citizens of the United States of America, and multi-entry visas, which are mandatory for US citizens even for a single visit. As of 2023, the approximate fees are USD 50 for a single-entry visa and USD 100 for a multi-entry visa.
KENYA VISA REQUIREMENT:
Kenya has recently introduced a new Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system, eliminating the need for visitor visas for all nationalities except Kenyan citizens and East African Community partner states. All travelers, including infants and children, are now required to apply for the ETA online through http://www.etakenya.go.ke before their arrival. The ETA carries a fee of USD $30, payable online via credit card, debit card, or Apple Pay.
To apply for the ETA, travelers must submit the following:
> A valid passport (with a minimum of 6-month validity from the arrival date in Kenya and at least one blank page).
> A passport-style photograph.
> Contact details (home address, email address, and phone number).
> Itinerary details.
> Confirmation of accommodation booking.
Depending on their country of residence and travel history, some travelers may also be required to present a Yellow Fever certificate if arriving from a Yellow Fever endemic country and provide documentation for additional vaccinations.
Travelers can apply for ETAs up to 3 months before their planned arrival in Kenya. After applying, a confirmation will be sent to the provided email address. Once approved, the ETA will also be sent to the same email address.
The standard processing time for ETAs is three working days, and applicants can check the status of their application anytime on the ETA website using the ETA reference number.
The introduction of ETAs replaces all previous visa entry requirements for Kenya. All ongoing e-visa applications will be processed, and travelers with existing e-visas will be allowed entry to Kenya within the 90-day validity period without the need for an additional ETA.
It’s important to note that each ETA is valid for a single trip, and travelers must obtain a new ETA for each visit to Kenya.
Vaccination requirements can vary between countries, so it’s a good idea to consult your doctor about the vaccinations needed for your safari travel. While the specific vaccinations may depend on your travel plans and destination, getting a yellow fever vaccination is generally recommended.
To minimize the risk of mosquito bites, which can transmit diseases like malaria, travelers should take precautions like using mosquito repellent and wearing appropriate clothing. Many parts of Africa are malaria-free, making them great options for family safaris with children. However, for areas with a lower risk of malaria, your doctor can prescribe effective preventive medications to take before your trip. These medications, along with measures like wearing long sleeves and using repellent, can further reduce the risk.
Here are the vaccination requirements for some of our popular safari destinations:
Experiencing genuine African tastes and indulging in local organic cuisine are key and delightful aspects of the safari journey. At B2C Adventure, we are eager to cater to dietary needs and personal meal preferences to ensure an optimal experience. Simply inform your travel consultant of your requirements, and they will ensure that all accommodations and restaurants are properly informed and prepared.
To choose the best luxury safari package in Tanzania, consider factors such as your preferred wildlife destinations, the time of year you plan to travel, and your budget. Look for packages that offer personalized itineraries, luxurious lodgings, and expert guides. Consulting with a travel advisor who specializes in luxury safaris can also help tailor the perfect experience for you.
The highlights of a Zanzibar day tour often include exploring Stone Town’s rich history, participating in a spice tour to experience Zanzibar’s renowned spice trade, and enjoying the beautiful coastline through boat rides, swimming, and snorkeling. Some tours also provide insight into local culture and community life.
On a Serengeti wildlife safari, accommodations are typically of a high standard. In the described safari, you will stay in Luxury (Gold) class hotels, which offer comfort and elegance. These accommodations are selected to enhance your safari experience with quality amenities and services.
The 8-day safari itinerary includes Amboseli National Park in Kenya, known for its elephants and Mt. Kilimanjaro views; Serengeti National Park in Tanzania, famous for its vast open spaces and wildebeest migration; and the Ngorongoro Crater, where you can see a diverse range of wildlife in a stunning natural setting.
The best times for a Big 5 safari in Tanzania are during the dry season, which runs from June to October. During this period, wildlife is easier to spot as animals congregate around water sources and the vegetation is less dense. Additionally, the weather is more favorable for game drives and outdoor activities.
When planning for an African safari, one important aspect to think about is what to wear. Your choice of clothing depends on where you’re going, the time of year, and your personal preferences. The key is to pack comfortable, practical clothes that can be easily carried in soft-sided luggage suitable for the African climate.
Here are some tips:
> Opt for lightweight layers like a fleece, puffer jacket, or vest that are easy to pack.
> Bring sneakers, binoculars, sunscreen, and sunglasses.
> Don’t forget waterproof gear and protective gloves if you’re going gorilla trekking.
> Some lodges provide binoculars, but you might still want to bring your own camera.
While you can bring toiletries and personal items, keep in mind that luxury accommodations offer high-end amenities, just like 5-star hotels. Their teams are ready to assist with any extra items you might need for a comfortable safari.
At B2C ADVENTURE, we understand the importance of getting your safari packing right. Check out our recommended packing list and customize it to fit your specific travel requirements.
Clothing:
• Comfortable walking shoes (sneakers, cross trainers, light hiking shoes)
• Loose, casual clothing in natural tones (khaki, brown, beige, green, olive)
• T-shirts and lightweight tops
• Long-sleeved shirts/blouses
• Shorts
• Convertible long-short pants or lightweight long pants
• Warm fleece or sweater
• Socks and underwear
• Pajamas
• Hat and bandana
• Optional: lightweight jacket or windbreaker
• Consider a sports bra for ladies
Other Items:
• Passport, tickets, itinerary, emergency contacts
• Cash and credit cards
• Small flashlight
• Sunglasses
• Sunscreen and lip balm
• Insect repellent
• Contact lens supplies and spare glasses
• Hand sanitizer, wipes, tissues
• Camera, batteries, charger
• Plug adapter (if necessary)
• Small battery-operated alarm clock or watch
• Entertainment: playing cards, games, reading material
• Journal and pens
• Snacks: nutrition bars, nuts, candy, etc.
• Ziplock bags for toiletries, camera gear, snacks
• Medical kit: meds, bandaids, antibiotics, etc.
• Travel pillow for comfort
• Extra glasses if you wear contacts
• Copy of passport and photo ID
• Hand-held fan (battery-operated)
• Necessary travel documents (e.g., Visa)
• Vaccination certificates if required
Of course, we would be happy to cater to your needs.
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