FFAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
Whether you are a seasoned explorer or embarking on your very first safari, we are here to curate the right safari experience for each guest. With nearly half a century of expertise and an exclusive focus on Africa, We Know Africa and are ready to answer all your questions. From what to bring to what to expect on safari, please see answers to frequently asked questions about safaris.
ABOUT AFRICAN TRAVEL
We are passionate Africa travel experts with over 300 years of combined experience, having lived and traveled extensively across the continent. From accommodations and flights to curated activities, we handle every detail for a seamless journey. We prioritize personalized service—from a dedicated safari specialist who designs your trip to private tours and 24/7 support while you travel. With our expertise and buying power, you’ll gain exclusive access to Africa’s finest lodges, top hotels, and unforgettable experiences. Our unique MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® experiences enhance your journey with authentic activities while supporting conservation efforts.
We believe that each traveler is unique, and we offer a variety of safaris to suit different travel styles:
- Tailor-made safaris: Custom-built itineraries for a personal journey.
- Escorted vacations: Small-group tours with a travel director ensuring every detail is taken care of.
- Locally hosted journeys: A mix of group activities and independent time led by local guides at each location.
Yes, we cater to families of all sizes, solo travelers (with options for minimal or no single supplement at certain lodges), LGBTQ+ travelers, and custom groups of 10 or more people.
When you book with us, you're backed by over 100 years of experience through our parent company, The Travel Corporation (TTC). Your booking is protected by a $1 million USTOA traveler bond, ensuring financial security. With a 4.9/5 rating on Feefo and the Platinum Trusted Service Award, our exceptional reputation and service guarantee an unforgettable experience.
ABOUT AFRICA
Africa is a year-round destination, with the best time depending on your interests and availability.
- Dry Season (May–October): Ideal for game viewing across most regions.
- Green Season (November–April): Lush landscapes, fewer tourists, better deals, and exceptional birdwatching.
The Great Migration is a cyclical event with wildebeest and zebras crossing the Serengeti-Mara system. It can be witnessed year-round but in different locations. From August to October, the migration moves into Kenya, the rest of the time, it travels through the Serengeti.
All safari destinations offer extraordinary safari experiences. For first-time visitors, our top destinations are South Africa, Kenya, and Tanzania.
- South Africa: Diverse wildlife and experiences.
- Kenya & Tanzania: Best for wildlife viewing and cultural experiences.
- Botswana: Unique water and land safaris with exclusive, luxurious lodges.
- Zambia & Zimbabwe: Off-the-beaten-path parks and Victoria Falls.
- Namibia: Desert safaris with stunning landscapes.
- Rwanda: Known for gorilla trekking, as well as Big 5 safaris.
Yes, popular safari destinations are safe for travelers. Many countries depend on tourism and make visitor safety a top priority. You’ll find warm hospitality and welcoming people throughout your journey. Luxury lodges and camps are typically set in remote private reserves and conservancies, providing a secure and exclusive experience.
In cities, exercise the same caution you would in major destinations like New York or Paris. Avoid displaying money or expensive jewelry, carry minimal cash, and store valuables and passports in hotel safes. Our 24/7 Guest Services team is available to assist with any concerns during your travels.
Africa is home to thousands of languages. English, French, and Swahili are widely spoken in many safari regions, but local dialects may vary by country.
Electricity across Africa is typically 220–240V, compared with 110V in the U.S. Most modern electronic devices (phones, laptops, cameras) can handle both voltages, but you’ll need the correct plug. Different countries—and sometimes even different areas within the same country—use varying plug types. Some luxury lodges may be equipped with U.S.-style plugs, but bringing a universal adapter is recommended to ensure you can charge your devices wherever you go.
GENERAL SAFARI QUESTIONS
Most safari programs are not physically demanding, but walking safaris may require more fitness. Participation in these activities is optional.
Yes, safaris prioritize safety with experienced guides, secure lodges, and well-maintained vehicles. Professional guides are highly trained in animal behavior and know how to navigate wildlife encounters safely. Always follow your guide’s instructions.
Luxury safaris feature opulent lodges and camps in prime locations, mainly on private reserves and conservancies. They offer an all-inclusive experience with all meals, drinks (including alcohol), activities, VIP transfers included. Enjoy exclusive experiences like hot air balloon rides, private tours, wine tastings, and travel between locations by bush plane and chartered flights.
While a daily schedule varies from lodge to lodge and from day to day, a typical day on safari looks something like this:
- Early Morning: Pre-dawn game drive followed by breakfast.
- Late Morning: Relax at the lodge or enjoy a bush walk.
- Midday: Lunch, spa, or siesta.
- Late Afternoon: High-tea, evening game drive with sundowners.
- Evening: Dinner under the stars, followed by stargazing.
The Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, rhino), along with cheetahs, giraffes, zebras, a variety of antelopes and other ungulates, and in certain areas, rare species like pangolins, wild dogs, or aardvark.
PACKING FOR SAFARI
Clothing: Lightweight, breathable layers. Bring a warm jacket and hat for early-morning drives in Southern Africa's winter months.
Footwear: Comfortable, closed-toe shoes for game drives and walking safaris.
Sun Protection: Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat.
Binoculars & Camera
Insect Repellent
Medications
Small Backpack
Flashlight/Headlamp
For more tips, view our suggested packing list
If traveling on small safari planes in Southern or East Africa, luggage is strictly limited due to small cargo holds. On regional commercial flights, the limit is 44 lbs per person, and on bush flights, the limit is 33 lbs—including carry-on bags. Luxury lodges and camps include laundry services, so you can pack light.
Several African countries, including Kenya, Rwanda, and Tanzania, have completely banned single-use plastics, including plastic bags. South Africa, Botswana, and Namibia encourage minimizing plastic bag usage. It's best to pack with reusable bags for your Africa trip.
ACCOMMODATIONS AND EXPERIENCES
From luxury tented camps and exquisite lodges to private villas with butler service, options cater to every taste and comfort level.
Gourmet meals feature local and international flavors. Unique dining options include bush dinners, sundowners, and private meals under the stars.
Luxury lodges and camps are well-equipped to accommodate various dietary needs. Just let us know in advance so we can ensure your requirements are met - from vegan or gluten-free diets to strict kosher or halaal meals.
Most luxury lodges and camps provide purified water through refill stations, allowing guests to top up their bottles as needed. Many lodges also offer high-quality reusable bottles as a keepsake to encourage sustainability. In suites and tents, glass bottles filled with filtered drinking water are replenished daily.
Yes, some lodges are equipped to assist guests with disabilities, including safari vehicles with wheelchair access. We’ll help you find the right accommodations for your family.
Custom 4x4 vehicles are used for optimal game viewing. Southern Africa primarily uses open-sided vehicles. East Africa uses closed vehicles with pop-up roofs for safaris in national parks, but some private conservancies might also offer open-sided vehicles for game drives within the conservancy.
Typically, safaris accommodate 6 passengers per vehicle, but in the low season, private vehicles may be available upon request. To guarantee exclusive use, there is normally an additional fee.
In addition to game drives, you can enjoy walking safaris, cultural visits, birdwatching, hot air balloon rides, stargazing, and water safaris in certain areas. Luxury lodges also offer wellness activities, spa treatments, cooking classes, photography workshops, and more.
Wi-Fi is available in most city hotels and lodges, though remote camps may encourage a digital detox to enhance the wilderness experience.
It’s customary to tip staff on safari at the end of your stay. Tipping at lodges in Africa is typically done in cash and given directly to staff that you interact with (e.g., guide, butler). For the back of the back-of-the-house staff, tip money is placed in a communal tip box. Some lodges allow tips to be added to your bill and paid by credit card, but cash is often preferred. For details, please see our Tipping Guide
BOOKING YOUR SAFARI
Ideally 9-12 months ahead for peak seasons (July-October, December-January) to secure the best lodges and experiences. Shoulder seasons offer more flexibility but still benefit from early booking.
Consult a travel doctor before your trip. Malaria prophylaxis is not required but is recommended in certain areas. There are also malaria-free options. Some areas may require a yellow fever vaccination.
Travel insurance is required for your safety, covering medical emergencies, cancellations, lost luggage, and unforeseen disruptions. We recommend comprehensive coverage that includes medical emergencies, cancellations, and evacuation coverage.
Visa requirements vary by country. Use our entry requirement tool for specific details. Also, make sure that your passport is up-to-date and doesn’t expire for at least months after your return date.
Absolutely! Tailor your safari with your preferred accommodations, private guides, special experiences, and unique activities.
Yes, many travelers pair their safari with beach escapes in Zanzibar, Seychelles, or Mozambique, or add city stays in Cape Town or Nairobi.
We can help book your flights through our partnerships with major airlines. Add flights at the time of booking or later. We can also assist with the travel protection - view our travel protection plans.
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