How to Plan an African Safari: Frequently Asked Questions

The safari regions of Africa can be found across its diverse countries. Each offers a unique ecosystem, wildlife experience, and distinct character. At Zicasso, we specialize in crafting itineraries that connect these diverse habitats for a comprehensive journey.

• Botswana: Famous for the pristine waterways of the Okavango Delta, which you can explore by dugout canoe, and the elephant-rich Chobe National Park, perfect for a river safari.
• Kenya: The grande dame of East African safaris, known for the Maasai Mara and its role in the Great Migration. From here you can admire views of Mount Kilimanjaro from Amboseli or take a hot-air balloon ride over the plains.
• Tanzania: Home to the vast, wildlife-filled plains of the Serengeti National Park, the unique ecosystem of the Ngorongoro Crater, and the iconic Mount Kilimanjaro.
• South Africa: A diverse destination offering malaria-free options like Madikwe Game Reserve, the famous Kruger National Park, and the exclusive leopard sightings in the adjoining Sabi Sands Private Game Reserve.
• Zambia: The country offers a raw, off-the-beaten-path feel in vast, unspoiled parks like South Luangwa and Kafue, known for incredible walking safaris and diverse wildlife along their rivers.
• Zimbabwe: Home to the crowd-free, Big Five destination of Hwange National Park and the spectacular Victoria Falls, which it shares with Zambia.
• Namibia: A land of dramatic contrasts, from the towering red dunes of Sossusvlei to the unique desert-adapted wildlife of Etosha National Park.
• Rwanda and Uganda: The premier destinations for once-in-a-lifetime gorilla and chimpanzee trekking encounters in their dense, verdant rainforests.

To delve deeper, explore our guide on How to Choose a Safari Destination for Your Trip.

The best time to visit Africa is during the dry season, though the experience changes throughout the year. Choosing the best time to visit the continent is crucial, as its varied climates influence everything from game viewing to natural spectacles.

• Dry Season (June to October): Ideal for a classic safari. The weather is mild, vegetation is sparse, and animals congregate around water sources, making for optimal game viewing. This is also when the Great Migration river crossings typically occur.
• Green Season (November to March): After the rains, the bush becomes lush and vibrant. This period offers phenomenal birdwatching and is the primary birthing season for many species, attracting predators and creating dramatic wildlife scenes.

For a more detailed seasonal breakdown, see our guide on the Best Time to Go on an African Safari.

A typical safari experience blends thrilling activities with luxurious relaxation against the stunning backdrop of the African bush. A safari is an immersive journey into the wild, where days are structured to maximize wildlife sightings.

• A Day on Safari: Expect an early pre-dawn wake-up call, followed by a morning game drive. You'll return to your lodge for a hearty brunch and downtime during the midday heat. An afternoon game drive often concludes with sundowner drinks in a scenic spot, followed by dinner.
• Game Drives: The quintessential safari activity, conducted in 4x4 vehicles with an expert guide.
• Walking Safaris: Many lodges offer guided bush walks to connect with the environment on a deeper level, learning about tracks, plants, and smaller creatures.
• Water-Based Safaris: In destinations like the Okavango Delta, game viewing by motorboat or mokoro offers a fantastic and serene perspective.
• Hot-Air Balloon Safaris: For a breathtaking aerial view, a hot-air balloon ride over the Maasai Mara or Serengeti is an unforgettable experience.

To learn more, our Types of African Safaris: Different Ways to Experience Safari offers greater insight.

The number of days you should spend on safari ranges from four to 10, or even longer, depending on your interests and how many parks or countries you wish to explore.

• Short Safaris (4 to 6 Days): Perfect for focusing on one or two key parks, such as an intensive exploration of the Serengeti or a combination of Kruger and Sabi Sands.
• Classic Safaris (7 to 10 Days): This is the most popular duration, allowing you to explore multiple regions within a country or combine two destinations, such as the Okavango Delta and Chobe, without feeling rushed.
• Extended Journeys (10-plus Days): For a comprehensive experience, a longer trip allows for a multi-country itinerary, combining diverse experiences like gorilla trekking in Rwanda with a classic safari in Kenya or a bush and beach vacation in South Africa and Mozambique.

Your personalized itinerary will be designed to ensure the right amount of time for you. To find out about bush and beach vacations, see our African safari and beach vacation packages.

To ensure you see your favorite animal, spend as much time on safari as you can. Spotting the Big Five may be high on your checklist and your qualified guides will use their expert knowledge to try and fulfill this wish. Spending time at waterholes is sure to enhance your chances of seeing anything from a graceful antelope to an elusive leopard. Remember that the bush is an untamed wilderness and the thrill is in the search and the surprise of what each day reveals.

The difference between a camp and a lodge in Africa revolves around the architecture, with safari accommodations ranging from classic tents to permanent lodgings. The choice often comes down to your preferred style.

• Luxury Lodges: These are permanent structures, featuring spacious rooms or chalets with solid walls, air conditioning, private plunge pools, and large communal areas.
• Tented Camps: Offering an intimate connection to the bush, these camps feature luxurious canvas tents on raised platforms with en-suite bathrooms and private verandas, blending romance with comfort.
• Mobile Camps: Smaller, more intimate camps that move seasonally to follow wildlife migrations, particularly in the Serengeti, offering an exclusive front-row seat to the action.

Be inspired with our Private North Luangwa Mobile Camping Safari.

The food, water, and dietary offerings on your luxury African safari will have you enjoying exceptional cuisine and safe drinking water.

• Gourmet Meals: Enjoy a variety of chef-prepared dishes, from hearty breakfasts to elegant multi-course dinners often served in a traditional boma under the stars.
• Dietary Needs: Inform your Zicasso specialist of any dietary requirements or allergies in advance to ensure all meals are expertly catered for.
• Safe Water: Drink with confidence as all lodges and camps provide complimentary bottled or filtered water.
• Beverage Selection: A range of soft drinks, local beers, and wines are typically included with your stay.

The currency Africa uses varies by country, but the US dollar is widely accepted in many key safari destinations.

• US Dollars: In East African countries Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda, and Uganda, as well as in Zimbabwe and Zambia, the US dollar is widely accepted for tips and tourist activities.
• Local Currency: In South Africa and Namibia, it is best to use the local currency. In South Africa, this is the rand (ZAR), while in Namibia it is the Namibian dollar.
• Credit Cards: Major credit cards are accepted at most lodges, camps, and in larger cities.
• Cash: It is advisable to carry a small amount of cash in dollars or the local currency for tipping and small purchases.

Tipping is customary and greatly appreciated across Africa to acknowledge excellent service. Guidelines can vary by country, but here are some general suggestions.

• General Guideline: For your safari guide, plan for approximately $10 to $15 per person, per day. If you have a separate tracker, $5 to $10 per person, per day is appropriate.
• Lodge Staff: A central tipping box is usually available for communal staff (chefs, housekeeping, waiters). A contribution of $10 to $20 per person, per day is suggested.
• Cash Preferred: It is best to tip in cash. US dollars are widely accepted for tips in most safari countries, though local currency is also welcome.
• Specialist Advice: Your Zicasso safari specialist will provide detailed tipping guidelines specific to your itinerary before you travel.
• Always Discretionary: Tipping is not mandatory and should always reflect your satisfaction with the service you received.

When it comes to voltage and electricity in Africa, charging your essential devices is straightforward at most safari properties, though power sources can vary.

• Standard Voltage: Most of Southern and East Africa operates on a 220-240V supply. Most modern electronics, such as laptops and cameras, are dual-voltage and compatible, but always check your device.
• Plug Types: Plug types vary significantly by country. For example, South Africa uses Type M, while Kenya and Tanzania use Type G, the three-pronged UK plug. A universal travel adapter is essential.
• Constant Power: Most luxury lodges and hotels have a consistent 24/7 power supply from a national grid or powerful generators.
• Limited Power: Some remote or eco-friendly bush camps may have limited generator hours, often turning off power overnight. Charging is typically done in the main area.
• Leave Behind: It is best to check with your lodge before bringing high-wattage items like hair dryers.

English is widely and fluently spoken throughout the safari circuit, so communication is simple.

• Official Language: English is an official or primary language in many safari countries, including Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Botswana, and South Africa.
• Local Languages: You will hear many beautiful local languages. Swahili is the main language in East Africa and you will often be greeted with a friendly, "Jambo!" or, "Karibu!".
• Language of Safari: No matter where you are, everyone speaks the universal language of safari, a Swahili word that means "journey."

You will fly in and out of Africa from one of several major international hubs that serve as gateways to the continent's prime wilderness areas.

• East Africa Hubs: Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) in Nairobi, Kenya, and Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) in Tanzania.
• Southern Africa Hubs: O.R. Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg, South Africa, is the main hub for the entire region. Other key airports include Cape Town (CPT), Victoria Falls (VFA), and Lusaka (LUN).
• Lodge Hops: From these hubs, you will often take chartered light aircraft flights directly to the private airstrips of your safari lodge. Be aware of strict luggage limits on these smaller planes.

Africa’s main safari destinations are safe, with your itinerary designed to ensure you travel securely and comfortably.

• Camp Security: Safari lodges are located in remote, secure areas with highly trained staff and safety protocols.
• Listen Closely: Always adhere to the safety briefings provided by your expert guides, especially regarding wildlife.
• Guided Travel: Traveling with private guides and drivers ensures your safety and provides valuable local insight.

When it comes to health concerns in Africa, ensure a comfortable adventure by taking sensible precautions.

• Malaria: Many premier safari destinations are in malaria-risk areas. Consulting your doctor about a suitable prophylactic is recommended. South Africa also offers numerous world-class, malaria-free safari options.
• Consult Your Doctor: Visit a travel clinic four to six weeks before your trip for personalized advice on vaccinations and health needs.
• Safe Water: All drinking water provided at lodges is either bottled or filtered to international standards and is safe to drink.

For an African safari, pack light and be practical, focusing on layers and neutral colors.

• Soft-Sided Bags: A soft duffel bag is essential due to strict luggage restrictions on light aircraft.
• Layering System: Bring layers, including a warm fleece or jacket for chilly mornings and evenings.
• Neutral Colors: Pack lightweight clothing in earthy tones like khaki, beige, and olive.
• Key Essentials: Don't forget sunglasses, a wide-brimmed hat, high-SPF sunscreen, insect repellent, your camera, and binoculars. Comfortable walking shoes are a must.

Learn more with our guide on What to Pack for an African Safari.

Africa is a great destination for families, providing a fantastic, educational, and bonding experience.

• Malaria-Free Options: South Africa offers a large number of high-quality, malaria-free reserves, making it an ideal choice for families with young children.
• Engaging Activities: Many lodges offer "Junior Ranger" programs with activities like tracking, bushcraft, and learning about local cultures.
• Private Villas: Exclusive-use villas provide multi-generational families with privacy and a dedicated team.

To begin envisioning your adventure, explore our inspiring Family African safaris and tour packages.

Africa is suitable for senior travelers as it has excellent safari infrastructure, luxurious accommodations, and customizable itineraries. This makes it ideal if you are older.

• Leisurely Exploration: A Zicasso safari is designed around your preferred pace, ensuring comfort and avoiding long travel days.
• Comfortable Travel: A well-established network of flights and high-quality lodges makes travel seamless.
• Personalized Trip Design: Your trip is meticulously designed around your mobility and interests.

See our African safaris tours for seniors to find out more.

Africa is arguably one of the most romantic destinations in the world, so, yes, it is suitable for couples and honeymooners. It blends thrilling adventure with unparalleled intimacy.

• Romantic Settings: From secluded tented camps to luxury lodges with private plunge pools, the continent is filled with breathtaking backdrops for romance.
• Exclusive Experiences: Indulge in private dinners under the stars, sleep-outs in star beds, or hot-air balloon rides for two.
• Bush and Beach: Easily combine a Big Five safari with a relaxing escape to a pristine beach in Zanzibar or Mozambique.

Explore our romantic African safaris for couples.

Yes, there are safaris for travelers with mobility challenges. An African safari can be enjoyed by everyone.

• Accessible Lodges: Certain lodges and ground operators are equipped to assist. Your safari expert can work with you to find properties with easy access from communal areas to your room.
• Tailored Experiences: Your itinerary can be designed to minimize long walks and focus on game drives. Some reserves offer closed vehicles or self-drive options, perfect for those wanting to experience wildlife at their own pace.

To find out about what you can expect on a self-drive safari, see our Self-Drive Namibia Wildlife and Culture Safari.

Travel responsibly by embarking on your safari knowing you are making a positive impact by supporting sustainable tourism.

• Eco-Friendly Lodges: Your Zicasso specialist will recommend lodges and camps that are ecologically friendly and committed to conservation.
• Community Support: Your contributions through park fees and stays at responsible lodges help fund conservation efforts and support local communities.
• Sustainable Practices: The focus is on sustainable tourism, from reducing your carbon footprint with eco-friendly vehicles to using reusable water bottles provided by the lodges.

You can find recommended itineraries for your trip by taking a look at our African safari tours and vacation packages. With so many countries, parks, and experiences to choose from, browsing these sample itineraries is a great way to find inspiration. Whether you envision a short adventure or a multi-country combination, our list will help to guide you. Once you have a few ideas, our experts will work with you to customize your perfect getaway.

Embarking on a trip to Africa with Zicasso transforms your aspirations into a meticulously crafted reality. Our approach to travel planning is entirely personalized. By filling out a trip request, you can share your ideas and travel preferences. Our team will match you with top African safari specialists who will use their expertise to curate your dream trip, handling all the logistics with care and personal attention.

Learn more about what you can expect on the continent by having a look at our African safari travel guide. For information on arranging a vacation with us, see our How to Plan Your Zicasso Trip in 4 Easy Steps.