How to Choose a Safari

As with all travel experiences, the first step is to decide on your destination. Africa is the second largest continent on the planet and comprises over 50 different countries. There are three main safari regions on the African continent:

Where to go on safari:
We have listed the prime safari destinations in Africa by country, grouped together by region. Within each country, we have identified the top wildlife or scenic areas with a brief description. This will help you decide on the country or countries that will fulfill your safari dreams.

Putting the pieces together:
After each country, there are sample itineraries. These include the order in which to visit the different parks (usually based on the logistics of getting from one park to the next) plus the minimum number of days we feel should be spent to adequately see and explore the wonders of the area.

Ask yourself a few questions:
Since all the safari destinations offer unique and varied experiences, here are a few questions you should ask yourself in order to establish your priorities:

1) How long do I have to travel?
While the average safari is 16-21 days, safaris can be from as few as 7 days to as long as many weeks. Remember, the journey to and from Africa will take at least 3 days of travel.

2) What is my budget?

3) What are my interests?
Do you have special interests in, for example, birding, culture, wildlife or photography?

4) Are there any special activities I would like to incorporate into my safari?
Do you have your heart set on climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro or standing on the rim of Victoria Falls? Do you want to go on a hot air balloon safari? Fish for giant Nile perch? Would you like to explore the bush on a walking safari? Canoe on the Zambezi River?