Discover the richness of Tanzania
Planning an African Safari
Step 1: Where To Go and What To See
Like any other vacation, one of the most important parts of planning is deciding where to go. Africa is a vast continent with diverse wildlife and safari experiences. To help you pick the perfect safari country, consider the following factors:
1. Wildlife Exploration
Determine the specific wildlife you wish to see. Each country offers unique opportunities. Here are some examples:
- Great Wildebeest Migration: Witness this incredible event in Kenya and Tanzania from July to October.
- African Elephants: South Africa and Botswana are known for their large herds of elephants throughout the year.
- Big Five: East Africa and most countries in Southern Africa are abundant in the iconic Big Five animals (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino).
- Gorilla Trekking: If you're interested in encountering mountain gorillas, head to Uganda, Rwanda, or the Congo in Central Africa.
- Chimpanzees: Uganda is also an excellent destination for chimpanzee sightings.
2. Tanzania: A Safari Paradise
Tanzania is renowned for its exceptional safari experiences and diverse wildlife. Here's why Tanzania stands out:
- The Serengeti: This vast national park is home to the Great Wildebeest Migration, one of the most spectacular wildlife events on the planet.
- Mount Kilimanjaro: Tanzania offers the opportunity to combine a safari with a thrilling climb up Africa's highest peak.
- Ngorongoro Crater: This UNESCO World Heritage Site hosts an incredible concentration of wildlife, including the Big Five.
- Selous Game Reserve: One of the largest reserves in Africa, it provides an off-the-beaten-path safari experience with diverse ecosystems.
- Zanzibar: After an exhilarating safari, relax on the beautiful beaches of Zanzibar and explore its rich history and vibrant culture.
Tanzania's commitment to wildlife conservation, its stunning landscapes, and the authentic cultural interactions make it a top choice for safari enthusiasts.
How Early to Book Your Trip?
The ideal booking time for your safari trip can vary depending on various factors. Here are some guidelines to consider:
1. Individual or Couple Travelers
If you are traveling solo or as a couple, and your dates and lodge/camp preferences are flexible, you typically don't need to book a year in advance. One month or a few weeks lead-time is usually sufficient. However, if you have specific locations, lodges, or dates in mind that are non-negotiable, it's advisable to book as early as possible to secure your preferred choices.
Keep in mind that booking too early also carries the risk of uncertainties, as unforeseen circumstances can arise within a long booking period. Assess your priorities and the level of flexibility you require to make an informed decision.
2. Group Travelers
If you are traveling as a group and require multiple rooms, it is wise to book as early as possible. Safari lodges/camps have limited capacity, and popular accommodations tend to fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons. Booking well in advance ensures you secure the desired number of rooms for your group.
The size of the lodge or camp also plays a role in determining how far in advance you should book. Luxury safari camps, for example, have a smaller capacity and may require earlier bookings.
Ultimately, the more time you have to prepare, the better you can manage your expectations and make necessary arrangements. Consider your specific requirements, preferred accommodations, and the popularity of your chosen destination to determine the ideal booking time for your safari trip.
Step 3: When to Go
Consider the Season
Another vital detail in planning is determining when you intend to visit Africa and the corresponding season. This will impact factors such as crowds, prices, and availability of safari accommodations and activities. Here are some points to consider:
- Familiarize yourself with low, mid, and high seasons in your chosen country.
- Peak seasons tend to be more crowded and expensive, with higher chances of fully-booked safaris.
- During the low season, you may find cheaper prices, fewer tourists, and better chances of booking desired accommodations with minimal lead time.
- Consider the animals you want to see and the activities you want to do, as certain seasons may offer better opportunities for specific wildlife sightings or events.
- Game viewing is generally good all-year-round, but it can be particularly rewarding during drier and hotter seasons.
- Birding enthusiasts may prefer wetter months when nesting, breeding, and migration occur.
Other Factors to Consider
Apart from the season, there are other factors to consider when planning your safari. Take into account the following:
- Activities you wish to experience and the purpose of your travel.
- Special considerations for honeymoon or romantic getaways, such as romantic dinners or hot air balloon rides.
- If traveling with kids or elderlies, adapt the itinerary to their needs and preferences.
- Availability of walking safaris or beach trips depending on the destination.
- Determine the ideal safari duration based on your interests and available time.
Best Times to Go for a Safari in Tanzania
Tanzania is known for its incredible wildlife and offers great safari experiences throughout the year. Here are the best times to go for a safari in Tanzania:
- For the Great Wildebeest Migration, the best time is from July to October when millions of wildebeests cross the Mara River.
- The dry season, from June to October, offers excellent game viewing opportunities as animals gather around water sources.
- From December to March, you can witness the calving season in the southern Serengeti, with plenty of predators and newborn wildlife.
- For birdwatching, the wet season from November to April is ideal when migratory birds are present, and landscapes are lush and green.
Keep in mind that specific wildlife sightings and weather patterns can vary, so it's advisable to consult with local experts or tour operators for the most up-to-date information.
Step 4: Set Your Budget
Setting Your Safari Budget
Setting a budget for your safari is an essential step to ensure you make the most of your African experience while staying within your financial means. Consider the following factors when determining your safari budget:
- Decide how much you are willing to spend specifically for the safari portion of your trip.
- Take into account flight costs, which are usually not included in safari packages.
- Research flight fares based on your place of departure and travel dates to get an idea of potential costs.
- Typical safari durations range around 7 days and can be all-inclusive for meals and accommodations (except the last day).
- Prices vary depending on the season, with low season rates starting from around $120 USD per day and high season rates reaching $1000+ USD per day.
Sample Safari Cost in Tanzania
To give you an idea of safari costs in Tanzania, here's a sample 7-day safari package for 2 people during peak season, including meals, accommodations, park fees, VAT, private four-wheel vehicle, professional guide, and driver:
- Budget safari: $2791 per person
- Midrange safari: $3149 per person
- Luxury safari: $3584 per person
Keep in mind that these prices are estimates and can vary depending on the specific safari package you choose.
Extra Safari Costs
Apart from the accommodation costs, the extra costs are as follows, VAT included.
- Park entry fee. The park entry fee (also known as conservation fee): Serengeti ($82.6) per person per day (24 hours), Tarangire/ Arusha/Manyara - $59 per person per day etc
- Concession fee. This is paid when a person spends a night in the lodge/permanent tented camp located within the park. Serengeti ($70.8 per person per day)
- Camp fee, this is paid when a person spends a night in a camp site located with the park Serengeti, Tarangire ($35.4) per person per night
There are other fees/charges applicable in the areas such as Mountain Climbing, Wildlife Management Areas, etc.
- The fee for children is between $17.7 - 23.6 per child per day The age of the child is taken as 5 years - 16 years. Less than 5 years, no charges in the park. More than 16 years, adult. The lodges have each their own definitions of a child, but a 4 year child will pay for accommodation in all accommodations. A two year child will be accommodated free of charge in all accommodations.For budget camping safaris children will not be considered, the babies are too young to sleep in simple camping tents
Other Expenses to Consider
In addition to the safari package cost, there are other expenses you should factor into your budget. These may include:
- Tips for guides, transfer drivers/taxis, and hotel staff.
- Additional expenses for drinks (alcoholic drinks may not be included), visas, medical insurance, travel insurance, vaccinations, and souvenirs.
Based on your budget, you can choose from a range of options, including budget, mid-range, and luxury safari trips. Remember that your budget will impact the type of accommodations, level of service, and overall quality of the tour. While all tour operators offer access to the same destinations and wildlife, the level of comfort and additional amenities may vary.
Step 5: What to Pack on a Safari
Essential Items to Pack
Packing the right items for your safari adventure is crucial to ensure comfort and preparedness. Here are some essential items to pack:
- Lightweight and breathable clothing in neutral colors
- Long-sleeved shirts and pants for sun protection and to ward off mosquitoes
- Comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots
- A hat or cap for sun protection
- A lightweight waterproof jacket or poncho
- A swimsuit (if your itinerary includes swimming)
- Sunglasses and sunscreen with a high SPF
- A reusable water bottle
- A small backpack or daypack for carrying essentials
- Binoculars for wildlife viewing
- A camera or smartphone for capturing memorable moments
- Power adapters and chargers for electronic devices
- Insect repellent and mosquito nets
- Personal medications and a basic first aid kit
Additional Considerations
In addition to the essentials, here are some additional items to consider packing for your safari:
- Adapters for camera lenses and tripod (if you're a photography enthusiast)
- Lightweight and quick-drying towels
- Extra batteries or a power bank for your electronic devices
- Comfortable and moisture-wicking socks
- A wide-brimmed hat for added sun protection
- A bandana or scarf for dust protection
- A journal or notebook for recording your safari experiences
- Ziplock bags to keep your belongings organized and protected
- Travel-sized toiletries and personal care items
- A money belt or neck pouch for keeping valuables secure
Remember to pack light and consider any weight or size restrictions imposed by airlines . Check the specific requirements of your destination and consult with us for any additional recommendations.
Why Safari with Lauwo Adventures?
Planning a safari is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and at Lauwo Adventures, we are dedicated to making it extraordinary. Here's why you should choose us:
- We offer custom itineraries based on your specifications, ensuring that every detail of your safari is tailored to your preferences and travel style.
- Our experienced safari consultants will work closely with you to understand your expectations and design the perfect dream tour that matches your individual needs.
- We have a team of knowledgeable and passionate local guides who will provide you with an authentic and immersive safari experience, sharing their expertise and love for the wildlife and culture of Tanzania.
- As a responsible travel company, we prioritize sustainable and ethical practices. We support local communities, promote conservation efforts, and strive to minimize the environmental impact of our tours.
- We understand that planning a safari can be overwhelming, but we are here to assist you every step of the way. Our dedicated team is ready to answer your questions, provide expert advice, and ensure that your safari exceeds your expectations.
To make sure you have a memorable and exciting adventure, contact us today and let us help you plan the safari of a lifetime!
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