Choosing the best African safari from the multitude of amazing sounding trips isn’t an easy thing to do. Africa is a large continent and the possibilities to explore it are endless. This magical continent features a strong hold of safari possibilities on the planet, ranging from the endless savanna grasslands to extensive deserts and zigzag deltas and so, choosing the best safari for you is something very tricky.
However, there is a safari in Africa for everyone regardless of your wallet size or schedule. Whether you are interested in mountain gorilla trekking expeditions in Uganda, Rwanda, the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) or game viewing in the pristine wilderness areas of South Africa, Namibia, Kenya, Tanzania, Africa has you covered. An African safari is by far a lifetime experience and that is why it is essential for you to get it right and return home when filled with lots of memories. When choosing the best African safari, it is important to put into consideration your personal type and destination preferences.
Decide what you need to see on African safari
In order for you to choose the best African safari, first you need know what you would like to see. This will help you know when you should travel and the destination you plan to visit. If your interest is to see mountain gorillas then gorilla trekking safari should be your bucket-list adventure. It should be noted that some wildlife prefer specific habitat and it is where they can be sighted depending on the destination you choose to visit. Mountain gorillas for instance thrive only in Uganda, Rwanda and the DRC. In Uganda, they live in only Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park; in Rwanda in Volcanoes National Park and the Virunga National Park in the DR Congo.
For starters, Africa is known for its big five game (Elephants, Buffaloes, Rhinos, Lions and Leopards). They are the iconic mammals and they can be spotted in Southern and East Africa. The popular places to catch a glimpse at these magnificent mammal species include the Masai Mara National Reserve in Kenya, Serengeti National Park in Tanzania, Kruger National Park in South Africa. In case you need to see the black rhinos then Etosha National Park of Namibia should be a must-visit destination. Hwange National Park in Zimbabwe and Chobe National Park in Botswana are exceptionally popular for their huge concentration of elephants. To witness the great wildebeest migration, Masai Mara National Reserve and Serengeti National Park are the two magical destinations to consider a must-visit on African safari.
Means of transport
Most safaris in Africa are best conducted in a comfortable 4×4 drive safari vehicles. But for those of you who wish to get out of the usual experiences then camping, nature walks/walking safaris are exceptional options to explore and experience what Africa has to offer the world.
You can also enjoy a self drive safari in East Africa and drive your own adventure through the famous national parks of Masai Mara, Serengeti, Tarangire, Amboseli etc. All you need is a good 4×4 car rental for your safari.
South Luangwa National Park in Zambia is famous for its walking safari experience in the Southern Africa. For adrenaline adventures, the source of the Nile at Jinja should be a must-visit. A visit to Africa has now become easier than ever before-we have wide range of rental cars which accommodate traveler’s interest whether you are interested in a car hire with roof top tents or for large groups.
Decide on your preferred level of independence
As well, you need to know if you prefer traveling in a group, part of a private guided tour or as an individual. Each of these has their benefits and setbacks that is why it is essential that you choose the best that suits your personality. Group safaris covers a planned itinerary with set activities designed for each day of your trip. Given the nature of this trip, higher chances are that you will come across strangers and you may make new friends or find yourself out of place. The advantage with it is that you have opportunity to share the cost with possibility to enjoy discounts. Private guided tours are a better alternative for those of you who would like to leave the task of arranging bookings to an agency while also benefiting from the expertise of a knowledgeable guide in the bush. It offers travelers freedom to tailor their travel plans to suit within their travel interests and no need to worry about group dynamics. The disadvantage with private guided tours is that they are costly. Alternatively, you can opt for self-drive safaris that provide you absolute independence on your road trip.
Choose the right season
Choosing the right time to visit Africa for a holiday can save some money on your trip. In case you are interested in bird watching then December-March is preferably the best time to visit Africa. Birding is one astonishing experience offered to visitors on African safari. Africa hosts diversity of bird species including flamingos, shoe bill storks, great blue turacos, bee-eaters, king fishers, fish eagles to mention but a few.