How to Choose the Perfect Safari: Finding the Right Adventure for You
- The Hummingbird
- Jun 5, 2024
- 6 min read
Deciding to go on a safari is an exciting step towards what’s sure to be a life-changing adventure. But with so many different types of tours and destinations, how do you pick the perfect one for you? Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned traveler, choosing the right safari can feel overwhelming. Do you want to explore the Okavango Delta in Botswana? Walk with lions in Zimbabwe? Or perhaps experience a women-only tour designed for personal growth, like our Bush Divas safari?
Fear not! With a bit of guidance, you’ll find the perfect fit for your style, budget, and goals. Here’s how to make sure your safari adventure ticks all the right boxes.
Step 1: Define Your Travel Style
First things first, think about your travel style. Are you someone who loves a luxury experience with all the bells and whistles? Or do you prefer to rough it a little, seeking out more adventurous, off-the-beaten-path experiences? Here are a few travel styles to consider:
Luxury SafarisIf you’re all about indulging in comfort while still getting up close with wildlife, a luxury safari is the way to go. Picture staying in five-star lodges or glamping in elegant tents, with gourmet meals served under the stars. Many luxury safaris also offer personalized service, private guides, and exclusive access to wildlife reserves. Perfect for those who want an unforgettable experience without sacrificing any creature comforts.
Best Destinations:
Botswana’s Okavango Delta for luxury mokoro (canoe) safaris.
South Africa’s Sabi Sands, where you can find ultra-luxurious game lodges.
Victoria Falls for stunning lodges like Elephant Hills Resort.
Adventure SafarisIf you're someone who thrives on adrenaline and doesn’t mind getting a little dirty, an adventure safari might be more your speed. These types of safaris focus on getting deep into the wilderness, whether it’s a mobile safari where you camp under the stars, or trekking on foot to track animals. Adventure safaris tend to be more rugged and give you the raw, unfiltered experience of the African bush.
Best Destinations:
Zambia for walking safaris in South Luangwa National Park.
Zimbabwe’s Hwange National Park for rugged wilderness safaris.
Botswana’s Khwai Area for adventurous game drives and river safaris.
Cultural Immersion SafarisAre you the type of traveler who loves to learn about local traditions and meet new people? Some safaris go beyond wildlife and offer authentic cultural experiences, like visiting local villages, learning about ancient customs, and participating in traditional ceremonies. These safaris give you a deeper connection to the places and people you encounter.
Best Destinations:
Zimbabwe’s Victoria Falls, where you can meet local artisans and visit Mukuni Village.
Namibia for the opportunity to meet Himba tribespeople.
Zambia, where you can experience local markets and traditional meals.
Women-Only SafarisFor a travel experience designed specifically for women, women-only safaris are growing in popularity. These trips, like our Bush Divas safari, offer a safe and empowering environment for women to connect, share stories, and experience the beauty of Africa’s wilderness. The tours are tailored for personal growth, and often include activities like painting with elephants or dining under the stars with female guides and travelers. It’s a perfect choice if you're looking for a combination of adventure, relaxation, and empowerment.
Best Destinations:
Botswana’s Chobe National Park for unforgettable game drives.
Zambia and Zimbabwe for a combination of wildlife and cultural experiences.
Okavango Delta for an adventurous yet supportive environment.
Step 2: What Kind of Wildlife Do You Want to See?
The type of wildlife you want to experience can play a big role in deciding where you go. Africa’s diverse ecosystems mean different countries and parks specialize in unique wildlife sightings. Ask yourself: What do you really want to see?
The Big Five: If you're after the classic safari experience, complete with sightings of lions, leopards, elephants, buffalo, and rhinos, you’ll want to head to the best spots for Big Five safaris. South Africa’s Kruger National Park is world-famous for its Big Five sightings, but parks in Botswana and Zimbabwe also offer exceptional opportunities.
Best Destinations:
Kruger National Park, South Africa.
Chobe National Park, Botswana.
Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe.
Elephants: Botswana is famous for its huge herds of elephants, especially in Chobe National Park. If you want to see these gentle giants in their natural habitat—playing in rivers, bathing in the mud, and protecting their young—Botswana is a must. You can even visit an elephant orphanage to learn about conservation efforts.
Best Destinations:
Chobe National Park, Botswana.
Amboseli National Park, Kenya (for elephants with Mt. Kilimanjaro as a backdrop).
Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe (visit an elephant sanctuary).
Primates: If you’re more interested in spending time with gorillas and chimpanzees, then East Africa is your dream destination. Rwanda and Uganda are home to some of the last remaining mountain gorillas, and tracking them on foot is one of the most awe-inspiring experiences you can have on safari.
Best Destinations:
Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Uganda (for mountain gorilla tracking).
Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda (for gorilla tracking).
Gombe Stream National Park, Tanzania (for chimpanzee tracking).
Unique or Rare Species: Interested in seeing something a bit more unusual? Namibia’s Skeleton Coast is home to desert-adapted elephants and lions, while Botswana’s Makgadikgadi Salt Pans offer the chance to encounter meerkats. You might also want to visit a white rhino sanctuary in Zambia.
Best Destinations:
Namibia’s Skeleton Coast for desert wildlife.
Botswana’s Makgadikgadi Pans for meerkats.
Zambia’s Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park for white rhinos.
Step 3: Consider Your Fitness Level
Not all safaris are created equal when it comes to physical demands. Some involve long game drives in comfortable vehicles, while others require trekking through the wilderness on foot. Think about your own fitness level and how active you want to be on your safari.
Relaxed Safaris: If you're looking for a more relaxed experience, consider a traditional safari that primarily involves game drives in open vehicles. This allows you to cover a lot of ground while still being close to the action.
Best Destinations:
Chobe National Park, Botswana.
Kruger National Park, South Africa.
Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe.
Active Safaris: For those who prefer a more hands-on adventure, walking safaris or mokoro (canoe) trips are a great way to stay active while experiencing the African wilderness. These safaris require a higher fitness level but reward you with a more intimate connection to the environment.
Best Destinations:
Okavango Delta, Botswana (for mokoro safaris).
South Luangwa National Park, Zambia (for walking safaris).
Mana Pools, Zimbabwe (for active safaris with canoeing and walking).
Step 4: Choose the Right Time of Year
The time of year can make a big difference in your safari experience. Different regions have different peak seasons for wildlife viewing, so it’s important to pick the right season for your specific goals.
Dry Season (June to October): The dry season is generally the best time for wildlife viewing in southern Africa, as animals congregate around waterholes and rivers. This is peak safari season in places like Botswana, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. However, it’s also the busiest time of year, so prices are higher and camps can be crowded.
Best Destinations:
Botswana’s Okavango Delta during the annual flood.
Zimbabwe’s Hwange National Park.
Zambia’s South Luangwa National Park.
Green Season (November to March): The green season, or rainy season, can offer a more affordable and quieter safari experience. While wildlife may be harder to spot (since there’s more water available and animals are more spread out), the landscapes are lush, and there’s plenty of birdlife. It’s also calving season for many animals, meaning you’ll have the chance to see lots of babies!
Best Destinations:
Botswana’s Central Kalahari Game Reserve.
Zambia’s Lower Zambezi National Park.
South Africa’s Kruger National Park.
Best Time for Specific Experiences: If you’re after a specific event or phenomenon, timing is everything. For example, the lunar rainbow at Victoria Falls happens during full moon periods, while the annual zebra migration in Botswana takes place between November and March.
Best Destinations:
Victoria Falls for the lunar rainbow (during the full moon).
Botswana’s Makgadikgadi Pans for the zebra migration.
Kenya’s Maasai Mara for the Great Migration (July to October).
Step 5: Don’t Forget the Extras
Beyond game drives and wildlife spotting, many safaris offer extra activities that can make your experience even more memorable. Whether it’s a hot air balloon ride, a walking tour of local markets, or a chance to paint with elephants, these extras can add another layer of excitement and meaning to your trip.
Hot Air Balloon Rides: See Africa from a whole new perspective with a hot air balloon ride over the Serengeti or the Okavango Delta. There’s nothing quite like floating above the plains at sunrise, watching animals roam freely below.
Best Destinations:
Serengeti National Park, Tanzania.
Okavango Delta, Botswana.
Cultural Tours and Local Markets: Meet local artisans, visit vibrant markets, and immerse yourself in the daily life of the communities living near Africa’s national parks.
Best Destinations:
Zambia’s Livingstone markets.
Victoria Falls town for local crafts.
Namibia for Himba village visits.
Unique Experiences: Looking for something truly unique? Try painting with elephants at a sanctuary in Victoria Falls, or spending the night under the stars in Botswana’s Makgadikgadi Salt Pans.
Best Destinations:
Victoria Falls for elephant experiences.
Botswana’s Makgadikgadi Pans for camping under the stars.
Conclusion: Finding the Perfect Safari for You
Choosing the right safari is all about knowing what kind of experience you want, what wildlife you’re dying to see, and how much adventure you can handle. Whether you're seeking a luxury escape, an off-the-grid adventure, or a women-only empowerment trip like Bush Divas, there's a perfect safari waiting for you.
By defining your travel style, considering the wildlife you want to encounter, and thinking about your fitness level and timing, you’ll be well on your way to planning the African adventure of a lifetime.
So, are you ready to make your dream safari a reality? Africa’s wild heart is calling—it’s time to answer.
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