22 Questions That Determine Your Safari Destination
January 22, 2010 by Johan Knols
Filed under Safari options
Africa is massive. And there are almost too many destinations if you want to make a safari. So how do you eventually make a choice about where to go?
Believe me, you are not the only one with this problem. Unless you travel to Africa to visit a relative – and therefore know where you are going without questioning it – it can be a nightmare to decide what the best destination for you would be. I give you some advice about making that choice easier and about keeping your head clear in the process.
Ask yourself questions
Now don’t start with the question: where do I want to go?
No, bring the questions back to yourself and don’t rely immediately on what a friend or the travel agency tells you. Every human is different and therefore you have to answer the following questions with yourself in mind. Off we go….
What kind of budget can I afford?
For the safari part and international flight. Stick to it!
What is my reason for visiting?
Wildlife, culture or scenery or a combination of these.
What kind of scenery would I like to see?
Open savannas or deserts will bring you to different countries.
Am I travelling with children?
Going to a malaria free area would be recommendable.
Are there any special animals I would like to see?
Don’t go to South Africa to see gorillas!
Do I want a lodge or a tented camp?
For the differences see this article.
Do I necessarily want to be inside a national park?
Inside a national park is often more expensive
Do I want a luxury or rustic accommodation?
You trip can be longer if you choose a less luxurious accommodation.
What kind of activities do I want on safari?
Choose between boating, walking, making a balloon ride etc..
Do I want a group safari or a private safari?
If you want to be alone, book a private tour.
Do I mind doing certain things myself?
You don’t mind cooking or pitching a tent yourself.
Do you like to drive or fly between destinations?
Being driven is definitely a cheaper option.
How many days do I want to spend in one spot?
Visiting more places is time consuming and can be tiring.
Do I have any health issues that prevent me from doing something?
Don’t go in the pollen season when you have hay fever.
Do I want privacy or I don’t mind?
How many people can I bear close to me?
Do I want a private guide?
If you are on safari to really learn, go for it.
Do I want a private (game drive) vehicle?
Only if you want to be in charge of where you want to go and when. Also nice with kids.
Do I want a beach extension after my safari?
It can be nice to really be lazy after the bush
Should I drive myself?
Being mobile can be great, but self drives are not recommended everywhere.
How long do I want to watch wildlife?
Some like to watch for ever and others have enough after 3 days.
Do I want my own bathroom and toilet?
On mobile group safaris you often have to share toilet and bathroom.
Do I want an open or closed safari vehicle?
Read this article for more info
Once you have answered all these questions for yourself, it will be a lot easier for your tour-operator or travel agency to help you. If you plan on booking as much as possible via the internet, the answers will be an easy guide for your searches.
I am sure some of you have additional questions that could be useful. Tell us!
Nice article, Johan. Should come in handy for a first time safari goer, as it hits every aspect in planning.
Quick question – why do you say, inside national parks is often more expensive?
Regards
Hari
hi Hari,
It is often (not always of course) more expensive as, first of all, your park entrance fees will get added to your accommodation fee. And secondly, being inside a park means that you don’t first have to drive towards the park before entering and accommodations realize that and can therefore charge more. In other words, your safari experience is of a higher quality.