Planning your safari
Imagine that you are on safari in Africa, the sun is shining on the African bushveld and you are still holding your breath in the anticipation of seeing lion. There is the melodious sound of honking hippo and the drinks are chilled waiting for your sundowner aperitifs. Sounds great, doesn’t it? But how do you plan your own safari?
Putting this in a different perspective. You are hot and tired, you have bounced around in the land rover for over 2 hours (and got the bruises to prove it), you have seen nothing, your nerves are shot to pieces waiting for that elusive animal, you are thirsty, hungry and you have just lost your lens cap to your new camera. Safaris are not for everyone, although I might argue this point…
How about an alternative? Imagine that you are on safari, but this time you are sitting on the decking, in the shade of an acacia tree, overlooking a waterhole. There are comfortable seats for you to lounge on, a table with your book, camera (complete with lens cap), a cool drink (water is beading down the outside) and some snacks are also on the table, you are reading a book when suddenly you see movement from the corner of your eye. The lioness and cubs stealthy approach the water, drink their full and then quietly leave. And all you have had to do is raise your camera and watch.
Advice about creating your safari
There is no need to manically try to fit everything in, rushing around all over the place to tick all those sighting boxes and getting stressed in the process. Sometimes what you are wanting to see may just come to you, so let it happen. Slow down and let Africa weave her magic.
We recommend at least one 3 night stay in a lodge on your holiday, otherwise you will spend all your time travelling and no time simply being. And what is the point on going on holiday when you need another holiday when you get back to recover from the one you have just had?
Of course, a 4×4 safari in a land rover can be extremely exhilarating, I love it and it is an African experience not to be missed. You really do not know what is going to be around the corner, the anticipation is just as exciting as the actual sighting. But it is your choice. And it is your choice how you approach planning your safari.
So how do you choose what is best for you?
9 questions for you to plan your ideal African safari
We love to really listen to every guest so that we can design the ideal safari for you. If you’re not quite sure what you want yet, here are some key questions to get you started…
Where in Africa do you want to go on safari?
By choosing your ideal African safari location, you give us an idea of what type of holiday you are after. If you do not know where you want to go yet, don’t worry, other information will help us with this.
When do you want to go?
The time of year that you travel is important in Africa. When are your intended holiday dates? We can create your safari, ensuring that you get the most out of your African holiday. If you are flexible, then let us know this too.
How long do you want to go for?
How long you want to be away helps us with planning not only your safari but also your destination choice. Some countries can be a short stay destination whereas others are a bit trickier.
Have you been to Africa before?
If you are a first-time visitor or a seasoned Africaphile, let us know so we can suggest the best for you.
What sort of accommodation do you want?
The type of accommodation that you would like to stay in is very important. There are a wide range of places to stay and the choices are endless, some of which are rather quirky! These range from luxury lodges, to stylish tents with outdoor showers, from mobile camps to divine rooms with claw foot baths. Your accommodation could be rooms with decking overlooking waterholes, community stay experiences, sleeping under the stars, or barefoot luxury, the variety is vast. Let us know what type of accommodation you are looking for to we can weave that into your itinerary.
What are your interests and hobbies?
Knowing what you enjoy as a hobby gives us an idea of what you may like to see and do on your African holiday. This enriches your experience and helps us choose the right itinerary for you.
Is it a special occasion?
Why you are going on holiday? Is it your birthday, wedding anniversary or an important occasion for you? Do let us know, so that we can ensure you celebrate in style and make that day special.
Who are you travelling with?
Let us know if you are travelling solo, as a couple, as a family or if you are a group of friends. With this information, we can get the right combination of accommodation and transport.
What is your budget?
And last, but certainly not least, is your budget. Please let us know what your budget is, even if it is a rough idea, so that we can customise your holiday accordingly. We pride ourselves on being able to provide an itinerary that is in the realms of your expectations.
So, get in touch, we’d love to plan and create your ideal safari holiday with you.