I’ll never forget the first time I went on a safari. That was the highlight of my first visit South Africa Honestly, it’s all I really wanted to do when I got here. Since then, I have learned that, of course, there is far more to do in South Africa than safari. After living Cape Town For almost a year I have really come to appreciate the food and wine culture, Hiking on an endless day Offered and weekend escape. But if you’re here as you’re planning your first safari, this is a complete beginner safari guide.
Choose how to book a safari
The first consideration when planning a safari is who you book with. Africa is one of the only continents on the planet and although it is recommended to book with a travel agent, it is necessary. In the past, I have traveled directly with businesses, but this year I chose a full-service agency. Travel to Ubuntu. This way you can visit several different camps from different companies and make a customized trip just for you. They also take care of your internal flights (called bush flights) and advise you on visas, and they can even get a better deal for you on your international flights.
Which country should you choose? You’ll visit
Your next consideration is which country you visit. I have visited most countries when planning a safari, but I would recommend only four favorites. There are several other countries that I absolutely adore not mentioned in this list, but if this is your first safari experience, I would recommend one (or two) listed below.
South Africa
South Africa It is the most popular option for first-time safari visitors. As the country is Africa’s most developed country, it feels like a safe option for Western tourists. That’s not to say that other countries are unsafe, but other countries often change political situations that don’t ensure that. South Africa is one of the most reliable bets in terms of political stability. But it’s not just safety that makes the country most attractive to travelers.
South Africa also has great food and wine, as well as more adventures beyond the typical safari experience. Not only will you challenge South Africa for a safari, you will also experience the fascinating city, explore the mountains and enjoy the world-class food and wine that is on offer.
Cities of Cape Town It is often a huge draw card for travelers, and even a short drive from there. Cape Wine Land. That said, if you want to go on a safari, South Africa is a great option, but you’d love to experience it more!
Botswana
Botswana It’s my personal favorite choice for going on a safari. It is called the last “real safari” because there is little crowd and feels like it’s in the heart of Africa rather than tours.
Plus, there are some amazing natural phenomena to discover. The Okavango Delta flooding is a must-see if you are in the rainy season. plus Meercats in the Kalahari Desert Another great highlight.
Tanzania
East Africa is the place to travel if you are looking for a typical “from Africa” experience. If you have never seen a movie, I highly recommend you see it before your trip! My personal favorite country to visit in East Africa is Tanzaniawe are grateful for the less crowds of Serengeti (as opposed to the next door Masai Mara) and for the addition of tropical paradise. Zanzibar.
If this is your first time visiting East Africa, consider booking one of the many Tanzanian safari tours. This will be a hassle to understand the booking process yourself.
Kenya
That’s not to say I didn’t love Kenya – Because I did it perfectly! However, Kenya is one of the most popular options to go on a safari. This means that many other vehicles often take part in animal sightings. This makes this experience feel a bit more personal, but Masai Mara is still a big draw card.
I know what to expect
Perhaps the best advice I can give you for your first safari is to know what to expect. The packaging side of things is explained in detail below in detail, but this description shares a typical safari experience.
Where in Africa will you land?
When you fly to Africa, you land in the capital before you move to a smaller aircraft. This can still be commercial aircraft, but in many cases it is a bush flight suitable for 2-6 passengers.
If you’re going on a safari South AfricaThe best city to land is Johannesburg. From there you can connect to either Kruger National Park or a nearby reserve.
If you’re going on a safari Botswanayou will probably catch a smaller aircraft on Maun before landing in Johannesburg. From there, catch a bush flight connecting to the safari camp. These flights often have multiple stops along the way, so be prepared for a long day of flight.
If you’re going on a safari Tanzaniathey will likely land in Dar es Salaam. From there you will be boarding a connecting flight to Kilimanjaro or Arusha airport. From there, it will be a short backflight to your safari camp.
If you’re going on a safari Kenyathey will likely land at Nairobi International Airport. From there, the airport needs to be changed as domestic bush flights take off from another airport for about 40-60 minutes (depending on traffic). From Wilson Domestic Airport, you will be taking a bush flight to Masai Mara.
When I arrived at camp
You can be slightly deluged with jet delays so that everything goes out of the way. Don’t worry, it’s completely normal! But don’t let you stop you from embarking on a game drive that night.
Upon arriving at camp, you will meet guides, trackers and some service staff. They will show you to your room and offer tours around the camp so you know where everything is.
Typical safari day
Every day on the safari starts at around 5am and with coffee. Shortly afterwards, when the sun rises, you will be on a safari car. Morning drives last anywhere between 3-5 hours.
After a morning drive, you are brought back to camp for breakfast, giving you more coffee (duh!) and time to relax. We recommend using this time to take a nap, read a book, or reflect your experience in your diary.
Lunch will be served around 1pm. I usually want to take my time to relax in the pool (if any) and put out my yoga mat.
Afternoon game drives depart around Golden Hour and return after dark around 7pm to 8pm. Dinner is then served and you’ll be able to sleep before it starts early the next morning!
I know what to pack
This is one of the most popular questions I get from a first-time safari visitor. It is important to prepare before you travel. It’s important to prepare as you won’t be able to get there or receive Amazon delivery.
Essentials
Bug spray, sunscreen, hats, sunglasses and good walking shoes are a must. You will also need to remember your passport, visas if applicable, travel insurance documents, and airplane tickets. Of course, we cannot forget prescription medications, toiletries and skincare regimes.
Technology to pack for Safari
Going on a safari is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, so you don’t want to forget about your camera! Also, don’t forget to bring extra batteries and chargers. Also, don’t forget if you have binoculars. If you are planning to photograph animals from a vehicle, consider investing in telephoto lenses.
Clothes packed for safari
The trick to packing Safari is to bring in neutral colors (Khaki, Browns, Beige) and remember that you can layer them anytime. It gets hot during the day and cold at night. We also recommend packing two types of shoes. A pair of flip-flops or Birkenstocks with some comfortable closed walking shoes (sneakers).
