Planning Your African Safari Trip - Basics
Tips for Planning a Great African Safari Trip
Choosing Areas of Interest and Reason for Travel
Define the purpose of your travel. What is the reason for your trip? Is it a family re-union vacation? Is it a honeymoon? Is this your once-in-a-life time safari? Communicate this clearly to your travel agent or the Safari outfitter who may be helping you with the planning.
Decising the Time to Travel: Time of the year - Time away from home
Needless to say, you need to take time off your work. That is your side of the planning. For the travel agent, hotel or airline, the amount of time you have and the time of the year you choose to travel may have a bearing on pricing of the travel services. Traveling during the off-peak period of the year may cost less in some destinations. Some destinations experience unfriendly climatic conditions during certain times of the year.
Your Budget for the Safari
For all of us, cost is an important factor in our trip decision. Any travel plan must be pegged to some budget. This is the amount of money you are willing to spend or can afford for our trip.
From the cost of the flight tickets to the tip you may wish to give to the waiter. Having a rough idea of how much the budget is will help both you and your outfitter design the right plan. Generally, the cost of your African Travel package, especially if it involves a wildlife safari, will be influenced by many factors. Each African country presents a different way in terms of the costing of the safari - the level of style and luxury hotels, the ambiance, the remoteness of the lodge or camp and the cost of supplies, are some of the factors that contribute to the cost. This is an important factor at the planning stage.
Types of activities include or take part in while on Safari
Hiking, mountain climbing, Hunting, Fishing, Hot Air Balloon rides, Bush walks, Scuba Diving are some of the activities that can make up your African travel itinerary. Note that some activities may be regulated or even be forbidden depending on the destination. For example game hunting is illegal in Kenya. Some destinations may be better equipped for certain types of activities – for example Big Game Fishing in Kenya.
Your Age and level of fitness
Your age is an important factor in ensuring that a perfect travel plan is designed for you. Both your age and level of fitness are important factors in ensuring safety and comfort on your travel. For example at 80 years of age, you may not want climb a high mountain unless you are in exceptional good health ! and at 26 years of age, it would be quiet boring to be limited to monotonous game drives in the parks throughout the day while on Safari!
Special Needs on African Safari
Consider these - Are you traveling during the early stages of pregnancy? Or later stages? Is it safe to take long flight during that period ? Is there someone who is on a wheel- chair? Do you need a baby cot in your hotel room? Is there someone who does not eat meat? Do you need Kosher meals?
Share this information with your agent and they will ensure all is taken into consideration on your travel.
Related Travel planning items
* What Type of Trip Suits You Best?
* Different Travel Activities in Africa
* Packing for Your African Trip
* The Best Time for an African Holiday
* African Travel and Safari Etiquette
* Health Issues for African Travel
* General Travel Tips