We know. The safari world is daunting. So many destinations, so many options. And such a wide variation in pricing. It is difficult to know where to start.

That’s why we believe it’s often easiest to start with a simple (no obligation) phone call to us. You can ask all sorts of questions and bounce ideas around. Obviously, we’re hoping that this website will also help.

Here are a few things to think about as you start:

Where to go?

It’s almost impossible to recommend one wildlife region above another – each has its own unique charms, ‘special’ animals and outstanding guides.

For first-time visitors, we’d probably recommend South Africa, Botswana, Zimbabwe or East Africa.

South Africa offers the broadest range, from the world’s finest lodges in private game reserves, some non-malarial, to more affordable options. It is also a destination where you can combine a safari for a few nights (perhaps in two areas) with some scenic touring around Cape Town and the Western Cape.

Botswana, Zimbabwe and Zambia are principal safari destinations: pristine lands teeming with wildlife amidst beautiful scenery.

In East Africa, Tanzania and Kenya both offer one of the classic safari experiences in Africa – witnessing great herds of game migrating across acacia-studded plains. Combine this with relaxing by the Indian Ocean.

All of our Destinations can be done by a first-time visitor, especially if you have specific interests.

Sample Safaris

If possible, spend some time look at those sections of our website. If possible, look at some of our sample Itineraries. This will give you a sense of costs and specific things that you may like to do.

How long to spend?

Invariably, the cost and time to get to Africa means that it’s best to spend at least 10-12 nights in the country, (or region), you would like to visit. If you only have that time, focus on three (maximum four) different destinations. Leave the rest for another time. And there will be another time!

If possible, we recommend 12-14 nights.

If you are retired, or have more leave, then we highly recommend 2½ to 3 weeks. Given that some lodges and hotels offer long stay offers, you may find that those extra nights don’t add substantially to the cost.

But it also depends on Mode of Travel – see below. A fly-in safari will allow you to see more in a shorter time-frame. In contrast, a self-drive meander through Namibia needs more time to be enjoyable.

Private or Group Travel?

Many people see a group tour advertised and assume that’s the only way to do it. The reality is that probably only 5-15% of safari travel is done as part of a group.

Invariably, we recommend private travel over group travel, especially if you are a party of four or more when the cost differential is marginal.

Why we recommend private touring:

• The itinerary can be tailored to you and your interests
• You can choose which lodges or hotels you want
• There’s some flexibility to change the daily itinerary (within reason)
• You can visit some of the less touristy areas

However – if you are a solo traveller or a couple – then the costs of private touring may be more than you would like to spend. Group travel is one option. But check out Mode of Travel above.