The Ultimate Guide to Planning Your First African Safari
“For the discerning traveler seeking an unparalleled adventure, an African safari offers a journey into the heart of nature’s most spectacular theater. This comprehensive guide will ensure your inaugural safari experience is nothing short of extraordinary.”
Safari Destinations
Kenya: Home to the iconic Masai Mara & the Great Migration, the beautiful Laikipia Plateau, Amboseli National Park and cultural experiences with Maasai and Samburu tribes
Tanzania: Boasting the endless plains of the Serengeti, the drama-filled Mara River crossings, Ngorongoro Crater, Mount Kilimanjaro
South Africa: Offering diversity: Cape Town, Cape Winelands, Kruger National Park, Sabi Sands, Tswalu Kalahari
Botswana: Featuring the extraordinary Okavango Delta & the Makgadikgadi Salt Pans
Namibia: Showcasing the stark beauty of the Namib Desert, Skeleton Coast and Etosha National Park. Cultural experiences with the nomadic Himba Tribe
Zimbabwe: Home to the elephant-rich Hwange National Park, Victoria Falls and Mana Pool’s picturesque Zambezi River floodplains
Zambia: Providing intimate walking safaris in South Luangwa, Victoria Falls and canoe safaris on the Zambezi River
Uganda & Rwanda: Offering rare gorilla encounters in misty forests
Where to Go
Africa's diverse landscapes offer a myriad of safari experiences:
African Safari Pairings
Pairing safari destinations can enhance your experience by combining unique wildlife, landscapes, and cultural elements while ensuring logistical ease. Here are some of the best safari country pairings based on proximity, travel accessibility, and complementary experiences:
Kenya & Tanzania
The Masai Mara in Kenya and the Serengeti in Tanzania are part of the same ecosystem, making it seamless to witness the Great Migration across both countries. Both offer exceptional Big Five game viewing and iconic “Out of Africa” landscapes.
Kenya/Tanzania & Rwanda/Uganda
Combine gorilla or chimpanzee trekking in Rwanda/Uganda with classic Big Five safaris in the Masai Mara or Serengeti. This pairing offers an unbeatable mix of primate encounters and savannah wildlife.
Tanzania & Zanzibar/Indian Ocean
Combine Tanzania’s iconic safari destinations like Serengeti or Ngorongoro Crater with Zanzibar’s pristine beaches for a bush-and-beach experience.
Botswana & Namibia
Namibia’s serene desert landscapes (like Sossusvlei) contrast beautifully with Botswana’s lush Okavango Delta. Both offer unique safari experiences and are perhaps our favorite pairings.
Botswana & Zimbabwe/ZAMBIA
Botswana’s Okavango Delta offers water-based safaris, while Zimbabwe’s Hwange National Park provides excellent game drives. Victoria Falls, located on the border, is a natural bridge between the them.
Botswana & South Africa
South Africa’s Kruger National Park and Sabi Sands offers luxury lodges and dense wildlife, while Botswana’s Okavango Delta provides a more remote, exclusive safari experience.
When to Go on an african safari:
Choosing the right time for your safari can mean the difference between witnessing the Great Migration and watching paint dry on a jeep. Here's the lowdown:
June to October: This is the dry season and prime time for wildlife viewing. Animals congregate around water sources, making them easier to spot.
December to March: Perfect for bird watching and baby animal sightings. Just be prepared for some afternoon showers. (Although dramatic rain clouds over the savanna makes for gorgeous photos if you ask us!)
However, each region has its nuances:
East Africa (Kenya, Tanzania): July-September or January-March
Southern Africa: May-October
Uganda & Rwanda (for gorilla trekking): June-September or January-February
Pro tip! Consider the shoulder seasons (April-May or November) for a more exclusive experience with fewer visitors.
Timing is Everything
Choosing the right time for your safari can mean the difference between witnessing the Great Migration and watching paint dry on a jeep.
The great safari’s
Logistics
Travel Planning
Timeline
12 months prior:
Call Epic Road to plan your Luxury African Safari
Begin budgeting for exclusive experiences
6 months prior:
Apply for passports and necessary visas. Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your return date
Consult with your physician regarding vaccinations
3 months prior:
Obtain comprehensive travel insurance
Ensure all travel documents are in order
visa Requirements
Research Visa Requirements well in advance. Some countries offer visas on arrival, while others require pre-arranged visas. Consider the East Africa Tourist Visa for seamless travel between Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda.
Travel insurance
Get comprehensive travel insurance that covers:
Medical evacuation
Trip cancellation
Lost luggage
Essential vaccines:
Yellow Fever (required for entry to some countries)
Hepatitis A & B
Typhoid
Tetanus
Meningitis
Rabies (for those planning to befriend every animal they meet)
Malaria prophylaxis. Take anti-malarial medication & pack insect repellent. Mosquitoes in Africa don't mess around.
Health Precautions
Consult with a travel health specialist well in advance.
What to Pack
Packing for a safari is an art form. You want to look good for those Instagram shots, but also blend in with the bush! Curate a wardrobe that balances functionality with comfortability. Here's your safari chic capsule wardrobe:
Safari attire
Neutral-colored clothing (khaki, olive, tan) for optimal wildlife viewing
Layers! African mornings can be chilly, dress for variable temperatures
Lightweight, breathable fabrics (Linen, cotton, cashmere, fine wool)
A quality wide-brimmed hat/cap and polarized sunglasses
A shawl/wrap/scarf/bandana
Comfortable, closed-toe walking shoes for game drives and nature walks
Pack strategically, utilizing free lodge laundry services to minimize luggage!
ESSENTIAL ACCESSORIES
- High-quality binoculars (8x40 or 10x42 recommended)
- Professional-grade camera equipment with extra batteries and memory cards
- Universal adapter
- Portable charging solutions for extended game drives
- Sunscreen and insect repellent
- A versatile daypack for carrying essentials
soft sided
luggage
Always opt for soft-sided luggage to accommodate small aircraft holds
Adhere to strict weight limits for light aircraft transfers (typically 15-20kg)
Conservation efforts (Elephant orphanage, anti-poaching initiatives, rhino tagging, habitat restoration)
Visit local schools and communities
Hot air balloon safaris (The Serengeti, Masai Mara, Namibia)
Exclusive bush dinners under the African stars
Treetop or Starbeds
Helicopter excursions for a bird's-eye view of remote landscapes
Boat or Mokoro Rides
Exclusive Experiences
Elevate your safari with bespoke activities:
Safari Etiquette
Don't Be That Tourist
Patience is key (African time is sometimes more of a suggestion than a rule)
Wildlife has right of way (that includes on airstrips - yes, really)
Dust is inevitable (embrace your new, earthier look)
Listen to your guide. They know the difference between a charging ellie and a playful one.
Stay quiet during game drives. Animals have excellent hearing, and your rendition of "The Circle of Life" isn't helping.
Spread gratitude & positivity :D
You might fall in love (with Africa, an elephant, or that rugged guide - we don't judge)
Don't: Litter!
“Embrace the Adventure
As you set off on your safari journey, remember that half the fun is in the unexpected moments - the sudden appearance of a leopard, the comical antics of meerkats, or the breathtaking African sunset that makes you forget about all trivial flusters.
Sometimes things will go wrong, plans will change, and you might find yourself using a flat tire as a makeshift sundowner table. It’s all part of the charm. So pack your sense of humor along with your khakis, and get ready for the trip of a lifetime. Just don’t be surprised if you come back with more stories than photos - and a burning desire to do it all over again!
Now go forth and SAFARI!”
