Planning an African Safari?[everything you need to know]

African Safari

An African safari adventure is an exhilarating safari experience. Picture yourself traversing vast savannahs, lush forests, and sprawling plains teeming with iconic wildlife. From the majestic elephants roaming freely to the graceful giraffes gracefully grazing, every moment is filled with awe-inspiring encounters.

As the sun rises over the horizon, casting a golden hue across the landscape, you set out on a game drive with expert guides who navigate the terrain with ease. With binoculars in hand and cameras ready, you eagerly anticipate sightings of the Big Five – lions, leopards, elephants, rhinoceroses, and buffaloes – as they roam in their natural habitat.

Throughout the day, you immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of the African wilderness, marveling at the diversity of flora and fauna that surrounds you. From the vibrant birdlife to the elusive big cats lurking in the shadows, each moment is filled with excitement and wonder.

In the evenings, you retreat to luxurious lodges or tented camps nestled in the heart of nature, where you’re greeted with warm hospitality and indulgent comforts. Gather around the campfire under a blanket of stars, swapping stories of the day’s adventures with fellow travelers as the sounds of the wild serenade you.

But the magic of an African safari extends beyond the wildlife encounters; it’s a journey of self-discovery and connection to the natural world. It’s about witnessing the untamed beauty of Africa unfold before your eyes and forging memories that will last a lifetime.

So, whether you’re a seasoned traveler or embarking on your first safari, let the spirit of Africa captivate your soul as you embark on an unforgettable safari adventure.

Here is everything you need to know!

Packing / Luggage Allowances

If you plan to fly in small planes around Kampala, Nairobi, and Arusha during your safari, you will be limited to carrying a maximum of 15 kilograms (33 pounds), which includes both checked and carry-on bags. It’s essential to pack accordingly, especially for air travel. Should you exceed this weight limit, please speak with our representative, who will endeavor to arrange secure storage for your extra luggage at your hotel, depending on your itinerary. Make sure to attach the safari luggage tags we’ve provided to your bags; these tags help your driver guide identify your luggage.

In most countries, the average distance a minibus or a 4×4 vehicle will cover to reach the farthest game park from the capital is approximately 600 kilometers. At times, the roads can be dusty, rough, and exhausting to traverse. However, our skilled drivers/guides are trained to prioritize your safety and comfort throughout the journey. They adhere to strict instructions not to hasten their travels. While air transport to specific destinations may be pricier, it is often recommended for a much more comfortable experience.

African Safari Vehicles

Our vehicles undergo rigorous maintenance to ensure top-notch quality and are outfitted with modern communication tools (such as UHF or VHF radios or mobile phones) connected to our main offices or ranger posts/lodges around the clock. Specifically tailored for safaris, each vehicle features a roof hatch for optimal wildlife viewing and a cushioned suspension system to minimize discomfort on uneven terrain.

Game Drives

Once inside the park or private ranch/reserve, you’ll have the chance to embark on early morning, mid-morning, or evening game drives, depending on the park’s schedule and the number of drives included in your safari package. In certain areas, usually just outside the parks, you might also get the opportunity for night drives and guided bush walks. If your itinerary allows, you’ll typically start your morning game drive by 6:30 am to take advantage of the stunning early morning light, perfect for photography. Predators are particularly active during this time, making it likely to witness them in action as they plan their morning hunt. Following a 2-3 hour game drive led by our experienced driver/guide, you’ll return to your lodge for breakfast, which may be followed by a mid-morning game drive with a picnic lunch, or you can choose to relax by the pool or join guided walks until the evening game drive. It’s important to be punctual for game drives to avoid inconveniencing other guests.

Special Needs

It would be beneficial for us to be informed of any unique health conditions, disabilities, or specific dietary preferences that were not disclosed at the time of booking your tour. This allows us to make every effort to accommodate these requirements, although we cannot guarantee that we will always be able to do so.

Food

The meals served in restaurants, hotels, lodges, and camps are typically well-prepared and safe for consumption. Luxury properties especially offer exceptional cuisine of high quality. African food is renowned for its deliciousness, diversity, and abundance. Across different countries, you’ll find a wide variety of fruits, while fresh vegetables are equally plentiful. Main dishes often showcase local, continental, and international flavors from around the world. The accommodations you’ll stay in are known for their excellent food standards. However, changes in climate and the act of traveling may occasionally lead to minor stomach discomfort. It’s advisable to eat in moderation, avoid consuming food from cold buffet tables left out in the mid-day sun, and consider fasting for a day while staying hydrated with bottled water if you do feel unwell. These are sensible precautions to take.

We strongly advise sticking to bottled water, peeling your fruit before consumption, and refraining from eating street food.

Meal arrangements typically include bed and breakfast in major cities by default, unless specified otherwise, while full board is provided during safaris. Lodges and camps typically offer substantial English-style breakfasts along with lunch and dinner buffets to ensure guests are well-fed throughout their stay. Particularly in luxury accommodations, you can expect creative cuisine crafted from fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

Weather

In many regions of Africa, temperatures drop significantly during the night, making it advisable to have a warm sweater on hand. Additionally, it’s not unusual to find cozy log fires in many places. While rain can occur unexpectedly due to shifting weather patterns, it typically shouldn’t significantly disrupt your plans.

Electricity

Many hotels and lodges situated outside major cities produce their electricity. However, it’s wise to carry a compact, lightweight flashlight as some generators may operate only for brief periods, typically during the early morning and again in the evening, from 6:30 PM to 10:30 PM. The electrical voltage generally ranges from 220 to 240 volts AC, compatible with most appliances except those made in the USA and Canada. It’s recommended to have an international electric plug adapter on hand at all times.

Internet & Phone Connectivity

Internet access is reliable in major cities, with most hotels offering Wi-Fi and internet cafes available in all major towns. Mobile phone network coverage is generally excellent throughout the country, making it convenient for travelers. If you don’t have a roaming plan, you can easily obtain a SIM card at a reasonable price in various locations across Africa.

Currency

Credit cards are widely accepted by shops, restaurants, and hotels in most areas, though American Express may not be as commonly used. Some establishments might impose an additional fee for card transactions. Market traders and government institutions typically do not accept credit cards, so it’s advisable for visitors to carry both local and foreign currency notes at all times. Payment for petrol/diesel in Africa is generally limited to cash. It’s essential to have the necessary information readily available for reporting lost or stolen cards.

In certain African countries such as Kenya, Tanzania, South Africa, and Mauritius, it’s recommended to carry more traveler’s cheques than cash. US Dollars and Pound sterling notes, as well as traveler’s cheques from American Express, Thomas Cook, Visa, or Citibank, are widely accepted and easier to replace if lost or stolen. However, Euro cheques and other currencies may not be as readily accepted in shops and hotels. Currency exchange services are available at airports, hotels, or banks. It’s advisable to keep cash securely stored either on your person or in a locked safe.

Exchanging money on the street is discouraged due to the prevalence of black-market transactions, where individuals may offer inflated rates for foreign currency, which is illegal. Instead, hotels, camps, and lodges can provide currency exchange services, albeit sometimes at slightly lower rates. Defacing local currency or images of the country’s president is illegal in many African nations.

Additionally, US Dollar bills older than 10 years from the current year may not be accepted.

Are there any inconveniences that I should be aware of?

You should be aware that:

Traveling on many African roads can be rough and dusty, which may lead to vehicle breakdowns. At Africa Moja Safaris, we utilize newer vehicles, but in the event of a breakdown, we swiftly replace the vehicle to ensure your safari continues without inconvenience.

Occasionally, game drives may be affected by rain, causing vehicles to become stuck in mud. In such situations, we appreciate your patience and assistance, as the driver may need help, especially if there’s no radio signal to request assistance. However, passing vehicles may offer assistance.

If you have severe back problems, road travel may be uncomfortable, and we recommend considering air transport for your safari. Bringing a blow-up or soft pillow can provide added comfort during the journey.

Upon arrival at your hotel, you may arrive early and not receive room keys until check-in time. To ensure early check-in, booking the room for the night before is an option, albeit at an additional cost.

During prolonged dry seasons, power outages and water shortages may occur intermittently. The accommodations we select are prepared for such situations, often equipped with generators and large water tanks to minimize inconvenience for guests. Some camps may intentionally use lamps and candles to enhance the wilderness experience. Air-conditioning operation, if available, may be subject to management discretion and energy-saving regulations.

While beach vendors or hawkers may try to engage you, we recommend ignoring them and exploring local markets and shops instead.

At times, service in hotels may seem slow. We encourage patience and urge you not to let it detract from your holiday enjoyment.

Are there any guidelines or rules I should know about?

Will I have the opportunity to stroll among the animals?

No, not quite. There are some instances where walking in the parks is permitted, but it’s typically restricted. However, these walks won’t include encounters with animals. While some lodges may have monkeys, baboons, or hyrax residing nearby, it’s important to remember that these are still wild animals and should be respected from a distance.

Feeding / Noise / Touching

Feeding any wildlife is strictly prohibited as it disrupts their natural feeding behaviors. Unfortunately, some lodges overlook this rule with their guests. Additionally, feeding smaller animals can be hazardous as they may become aggressive and bite. When near wildlife, conversations should be kept at a low volume to avoid disturbing the animals and fellow travelers. Playing loud music is discouraged. It is strictly prohibited to touch or provoke any wildlife, as all animals are wild and potentially dangerous. Guests must adhere to the instructions provided by drivers or guides at all times. Walking within game parks and private reserves is not allowed without the accompaniment of qualified guides. In lodges without fencing, guests must strictly follow the walking rules set by the lodge.

Conservation

In numerous regions across Africa, purchasing wildlife products is against the law. To contribute to the preservation of wildlife and marine ecosystems, it’s important to refrain from buying any wildlife or sea products.

Additionally, some lodges and hotels may request that guests sign an indemnity form for certain activities such as walking, horseback riding, camel riding, and similar adventures.

Photography

It’s considered courteous to seek permission before photographing individuals. Occasionally, the subject may request payment for being photographed—should this occur, it’s advisable to negotiate the amount beforehand.

Regarding interactions with locals, Africans typically display politeness and respect towards travelers, and it’s encouraged to reciprocate this courtesy. Avoid humiliating them if they’re unsure how to handle a request that may seem unfamiliar. Should any issues arise, don’t hesitate to speak with a senior manager. Additionally, dress modestly and respectfully, as nude bathing is prohibited in many countries.

Tipping

While tipping is commonly anticipated, it remains entirely optional and is seen as a gesture of gratitude for the services provided. It’s encouraged to tip generously, considering that the local people often live in conditions of extreme poverty compared to Western standards.

Will there be any additional costs to my Tour?

We have endeavored to cover all expenses in our scheduled departures, including meals, transportation, transfers, and game park fees. However, in certain instances, lunch or dinner may not be included to encourage travelers to explore and enjoy the local cuisine. Additional costs to consider are optional excursions such as balloon rides and visits to local villages for cultural experiences, as well as expenses for medication and personal items. Tips for your driver/guide are discretionary, typically ranging from $5 to $10 per day per person, while tips for hotel staff are generally around $5 per day. Any additional tips beyond what is included will be entirely up to your discretion.

Health Precaution

We recommend that all clients carry their first aid kit. Please be aware that our drivers have been instructed not to administer any first aid or medications unless it is a life-threatening situation, as past instances of their assistance have resulted in opportunistic litigation. Additionally, all travelers need to practice safe sex due to the AIDS epidemic in Africa. AIDS cannot be transmitted through casual contact; it is only transmitted through sexual contact, blood/fluid transfusion, or the use of contaminated needles and razors. It’s crucial to promptly clean and cover cuts and grazes. Moreover, be cautious of seemingly “friendly” pets and wildlife, as they could potentially be rabid. In the event of a bite, we recommend that our clients seek rabies inoculation within 24 hours. Furthermore, it’s essential to protect yourself from the intense African sun, which can cause severe sunburns rapidly. Please use protective creams and drink plenty of non-alcoholic beverages, which are provided in our safari vehicles.

While in Africa, most cities have medical facilities that meet international standards and are utilized by diplomats. In the event of an emergency, we will always recommend the best institution to our clients. We advise all clients to obtain Emergency Evacuation coverage from their insurance company and Africa Air Rescue (AAR) coverage.

Security

In general, tourists visiting Africa are likely to encounter safer conditions compared to cities like Rio or New York. The safest environments are typically game parks and rural areas. There have been very few threatening incidents reported in these areas. However, in the rare event of such incidents, the government and wildlife departments typically enhance security measures in the affected regions. Our vehicles are equipped with radios or mobile phones to maintain constant communication with the head office or park rangers.

While staying in tourist lodges or camps, it’s important to ensure that your cash and valuables are not left unattended. Utilize the provided safes or secure them in your bag with a reliable lock. Conversely, items like cameras, binoculars, and safari accessories are generally safe to keep inside your room. Before leaving the camps, ensure that all your belongings are accounted for. Any missing items should be reported to the camp manager and your driver/guide for further action. Additionally, it’s advisable to have sufficient theft insurance coverage for your trip.

Valuables

It’s advisable to refrain from wearing expensive and bulky jewelry in urban areas as it can attract unnecessary attention.

Major cities, like those around the world, often experience higher crime rates. Therefore, we recommend taking the following precautions:

  • Avoid known trouble spots within the city.
  • Opt for guided tours and excursions sanctioned by our staff whenever possible.
  • Refrain from traveling long distances alone at night and only use taxis arranged by your hotel.
  • Minimize the amount of cash and valuables you carry while walking in public.
  • Avoid displaying valuable jewelry in public settings.
  • Utilize the hotel safe and ensure you receive a receipt.
  • Seek advice from your guide, hotel staff, or locals before embarking on any independent outings.
  • If confronted by a threat, do not resist and comply with the attacker’s demands.

Despite these precautions, don’t hesitate to explore the cities. Despite the challenges faced by Africans, they are inherently friendly and welcoming, enjoying interactions with visitors. We encourage you to engage with the local community and strike up conversations with them.

Plan your Luxury African Safari

Planning a safari differs significantly from organizing typical travels you may have experienced before. The preparation and anticipation leading up to the trip can be just as thrilling as the safari itself! Below, we outline the key questions you should consider when embarking on the planning process. We recommend taking some time to review these questions and reflect on your responses. Once you have a clearer understanding of your preferences, we can discuss how to align your interests and needs with the destinations, accommodations, tours, and activities that best match your criteria. Therefore, the approach is to methodically plan your customized “dream trip to Africa.” Once you’ve defined the type of safari or tour you desire, navigate to the ‘Book your Adventure’ section for a personalized selection of trips. We eagerly anticipate collaborating with you throughout this exploratory and informative journey to help you determine the ideal safari adventure!

Where Should I Go on Safari?

Africa Moja Safaris provides safaris to all three of these regions. To gain insight into the distinctions among these regions, click on one of the following links for further details: * East Africa * Southern Africa * Indian Ocean Islands

When Is a Good Time of Year to Go?

You’ll encounter various opinions regarding the timing of your trip, but it’s worth noting that people visit destinations on this website year-round. Each season offers its advantages, so if you have fixed travel dates, chances are you’ll still have a fantastic trip regardless of when you go. Understanding seasonal trends and their impact on your trip is important, but keep in mind that weather can be unpredictable. It’s entirely possible to experience days without rain during the peak of the rainy season or encounter thundershowers in the middle of the dry season.

Drier seasons are preferred for game viewing. The dry weather ensures more reliable road conditions and milder daytime temperatures during the winter months. With fewer water sources available, wildlife tends to gather around these limited sources, and sparser foliage makes animals easier to spot. However, it’s important to note that during these prime game viewing conditions, properties experience their highest occupancy, and game reserves and parks see increased traffic.

For smaller, more intimate safari camps and lodges, booking well in advance is essential, especially for travel between June and October.

East Africa

The long rainy season spans from early April to early June, while the short rainy season occurs from late October to December. Traveling during these rainy seasons often comes at a lower cost. In contrast, the dry seasons offer excellent visibility and more reliable road conditions, with wildlife typically congregating around the limited water sources, making them easier to spot. July and August tend to be exceptionally busy in East Africa due to comfortable temperatures and global travel trends, so booking well in advance is advisable. December experiences heightened local tourism, leading to holiday surcharges and limited availability. In the Masai Mara and Serengeti, the movements of migrating wildebeests influence the desirability of specific areas at certain times, potentially affecting your itinerary, choices, or expenses.

Southern Africa

The rainy season in the safari regions typically lasts from late November to mid-April, characterized mainly by afternoon thunderstorms. However, during this time, the southern Cape and coastline of South Africa enjoy summer weather and are delightful places to visit. Conversely, during the winter months from June to August, this area can be cold and rainy. High season rates for safari regions often come into effect in July. This makes it possible to save money by traveling before that during the shoulder season. May and June are particularly pleasant months for travel. However, December experiences heavy local tourism due to summer school vacations and holiday traffic. This leads to holiday surcharges, crowded beaches, and limited availability. Given the smaller size of safari camps and lodges in southern Africa. It’s crucial to book well in advance, especially for travel between June and September.

Indian Ocean Islands

Typically, the weather in this region mirrors that of southern Africa, where summer rains occur from November to April, occasionally accompanied by cyclones. The dry season from May to October is considered optimal for travel.

What Kinds of Activities Are Available?

An African Safari typically requires two skills that most travelers have already honed: eating and sitting in a moving vehicle. However, if this seems too passive for your taste, you might want to consider adding one or more of the distinctive safari adventures and outdoor activities highlighted in the “WHAT TO DO” section.

What Is My Budget?

Choosing a trip based on cost is a pivotal consideration. While some travelers may not be constrained by financial concerns, the majority of our clients prefer to adhere to a budget and have a specific price range in mind. This aspect plays a crucial role in helping us tailor the safari experience to your needs. The saying “You get what you pay for” holds when planning a safari, as there are diverse options available catering to different budgets. However, there are significant disparities in accommodations, services, transportation, and food quality among them. Before planning your safari, it’s essential to evaluate how much of a rugged experience you’re comfortable with. whether you’re opting for an organized tour or a custom-designed itinerary for you and your family. A seasoned and reputable specialty tour operator will have insights into reputable safaris, prevailing prices, and prevailing conditions in Africa that may impact your trip. Below are factors that influence the cost of a trip:

Level of Luxury

Generally, the more luxurious the safari experience, the higher the cost. High-end safari camps range from $300 to $800 per person per night. This excludes transfers between regions or camps, which are often conducted by air. However, most safari camp and lodge rates typically cover meals, game drives, and many other wildlife-viewing activities. Occasionally, drinks and laundry services may be included in the rate. When you factor in the added value of these inclusions relative to the average price of a 4–5-star hotel (which usually only covers the room), a safari becomes quite a cost-effective option.

It’s important to budget for tips and souvenirs when planning your spending money. Fluctuations in exchange rates and fuel prices, as well as changes in government fees such as visa fees, park fees, tourism levies, or sales taxes, can impact the final cost of your safari.

It’s crucial to assess what you can realistically afford and remember that. As with many things, you generally get what you pay for when it comes to safaris. It’s a misconception to assume that accommodations and services in Africa are cheap simply because many regions are considered “third world”. At Africa Moja Safaris, we are meticulous about the quality of service and accommodations we provide. We are particularly selective about the guides and facilities we utilize, as they not only influence the success of your wildlife encounters but also contribute significantly to the overall value and quality of your safari experience—and ultimately, your lasting memories of Africa!

Length of Trip

Using the per-day-per-person budget as a guideline is a practical approach to determining the duration of your travels. Simply reducing the length of your trip by a few days can often lead to significant cost savings. Minimizing movement between locations can help avoid expensive transfers or regional flights. This contributes to a more relaxed and immersive experience. Typically, staying at a camp or lodge for three nights provides ample opportunity to explore the area thoroughly. And also engage in available activities at a leisurely pace. Conversely, frequent location changes may result in missing out on the essence of what drew you to Africa in the first place.

However, it’s important to recognize that the time and expense involved in traveling to Africa are substantial. Therefore, we encourage you to spend as much time as possible in this extraordinary part of the world. Hastening your trip solely to save money is seldom worthwhile. While many visitors find themselves returning to Africa repeatedly, it’s worth noting that Africa remains a distant and remote destination for many. This might be one of your few, if not your only opportunity, to embark on a safari adventure!

Selection of Camps, Lodges and Hotels

At Africa Moja Safaris, we prioritize complete independence and impartiality in our selection and recommendation of safari camps, lodges, and hotels for our clients. This approach grants us the flexibility to combine different areas, properties, and activities that we believe will best suit your needs. We do this without being restricted by the limitations or additional costs associated with inbound operators or destination managers. We have established a strong reputation and excellent relationships with properties and ground handlers throughout East and Southern Africa. As our client, you benefit from various advantages, including preferred rates, combination packages, incentive fares, and VIP treatment. Let us propose the perfect combination of properties, venues, activities, and destinations for your trip to ensure not only an exceptional safari experience tailored to your interests and preferences but also the best possible value for the money invested in this dream journey!

Activities

The safari segment of your journey typically constitutes the largest expense. Safari camps typically offer all-inclusive packages, covering accommodations, meals, guides, game activities, and park entry fees. Staying at a hotel or beach resort is often more economical than a safari camp, as you pay for meals, tours, and activities individually, as you desire during your stay. Combining a safari with a few days at the beach or a self-drive tour along the Garden Route in Cape Town, South Africa, for example, can help reduce overall trip costs.

Seasonal variations significantly impact safari costs, with high-season rates differing substantially from low-season rates for the same camps and lodges. High-season rates reflect peak demand, often coinciding with optimal game viewing periods, leading to limited availability and higher prices. However, if prime game viewing isn’t crucial and you’re flexible with travel dates. You can still enjoy a fantastic safari experience at a considerably lower cost during the low or “green” seasons. An added benefit is that areas are typically less crowded during these times, making it easier to secure accommodations.

What Is My Travel Style?

This aspect may be the most abstract of all considerations, yet it’s often the most enjoyable to explore. For instance, do you prefer the “cruise ship style,” where you unpack once and let others handle the logistics? This offers minimal involvement in your experiences. Or are you someone who prefers a more hands-on approach, actively engaging in the planning and execution of your safari adventures?

Luxury, Moderate, or Rustic?

It’s essential to consider the level of accommodation you expect while on safari. Are you seeking luxurious comfort, basic 2-man dome tents, or something in between? While this decision largely hinges on personal preference and budget constraints. We prefer to craft itineraries with consistent accommodation standards throughout. While it’s possible to combine different levels of accommodation during your trip. We emphasize the importance of having appropriate expectations for each destination you visit.

One of the most significant distinctions between safaris lies in the level of luxury, which naturally correlates with the price. High-end safaris typically involve transportation via small planes accompanied by a guide, leading to upscale lodges with all modern comforts. These accommodations often feature dining and lounging areas, along with a bar in a central building exuding an African ambiance. Guests will be typically housed in private bungalows or permanent tented suites, complete with en-suite facilities and thatched roofs.

Mid-range safaris offer similar amenities, though transportation may be via minivan (in East Africa) instead of planes, and transfers may lack a dedicated guide. Lodging options might include larger lodges with more guests and reduced personalized service, or slightly less opulent accommodations.

Budget or rustic safaris offer a more stripped-down experience, with transportation by bus, minivan, or open truck. Service tends to be more self-reliant. Accommodations range from permanent tent campsites with basic facilities to pitching tents yourself and sleeping on the ground. While the meals may not be gourmet. Camping in the bush provides an authentic African safari experience, with opportunities to mingle with fellow budget travelers from around the globe. However, it’s crucial to ensure that camping aligns with your preferences if opting for a budget safari.

Who is Travelling?

Consideration should be given to the age range and composition of your group. Certain safari camps may have age restrictions, such as not permitting children under 12 years old. While some mobile camping safaris may have age limits, excluding guests over 65 years old. Families have distinct needs compared to honeymooning couples. Some safaris are designed to accommodate children.

it’s important to remember that a certain level of quietness, focus, patience, and stillness is required. If you’re traveling for business, this may influence our recommendations for your safari. Similarly, if you’re traveling alone, certain safari options may be more suitable than others.

Small Group or Independent?

Group trips typically involve a considerable number of participants, with specific age restrictions and fixed departure dates. In contrast, independent travel offers greater flexibility. It enables you to commence your journey whenever you desire and travel for the duration you prefer. Visiting the camps of your choosing. Despite being labeled “independent travel,” assistance is always available upon arrival at the airport. With arrangements made to transfer you to your safari camp or hotel. This means solo travelers can feel at ease, knowing they’ll receive attentive care throughout their journey. Many of our clients opt for a blend of small group and independent travel, enjoying the benefits of both approaches.

Road or Air?

Choosing between traveling by road or air is a significant consideration when planning your trip. Sometimes, the availability of both options may not be possible, thus deciding for you. While air travel is generally pricier. It offers the most efficient mode of transportation, swiftly transferring you between safari camps. And allowing ample time to partake in activities at each location, which is the essence of a safari experience. Typically, the aircraft used are small, so individuals who struggle with small planes should factor this into their trip planning.

On the other hand, traveling by road can be tiring. It involves lengthy journeys on dusty roads in safari vehicles and consuming considerable time. However, overland travel provides the opportunity to observe the countryside and local villages en route to your destinations. This offers a more authentic glimpse into the daily lives of the people in the country you’re visiting. For some travelers, this immersive experience is indispensable.

Guides and Vehicles

We strongly believe that the safari guide plays a crucial role in shaping the overall safari experience. A skilled guide can greatly enhance your journey. At Africa Moja Safaris, we strive to provide the finest guides available. While East Africa is in the process of establishing standardized guide requirements.

Southern Africa has a longstanding reputation for rigorous and extensive guide training.

In East Africa, if you’re traveling by road, it’s common to have the same guide throughout your journey. This continuity allows you to develop a rapport and build upon each day’s experiences. Conversely, when flying or traveling in Southern Africa, you’ll encounter guides from each camp who possess comprehensive knowledge of the areas they traverse daily.

Safari guides often specialize in specific areas or have particular expertise, allowing you to benefit from the diverse knowledge they bring. In Southern Africa, vehicles typically consist of open 4×4 Land Rovers or Land Cruisers, offering excellent visibility. In contrast, most vehicles in East Africa are minivans equipped with an opening roof hatch, providing optimal visibility. However, opting for a 4×4 vehicle in East Africa is also possible, albeit at a higher cost.

Let us plan your trip. Contact us at info@africamojasafaris.com