Your Journey, Your Way!

PLAN YOUR TRIP

Your Dream Safari, Made Simple.

We make creating your ultimate African adventure as seamless and exciting as the journey itself.

Craft Your Perfect Journey in 3 Easy Steps

Share Your Vision

Share Your Vision

Your journey begins with a conversation. We take the time to understand your dreams, interests, and travel style. Whether you’re imagining witnessing the Great Migration, relaxing on Zanzibar’s pristine beaches, or experiencing cultural immersion in a Maasai village, we listen to what matters most to you.

Collaborate to Craft Your Custom Journey

Collaborate to Craft Your Custom Journey

Using our expertise and your input, we design an itinerary tailored just for you. Together, we refine every detail—from accommodations and activities to transportation and special requests—until it’s exactly as you imagined. Our goal is to make the process enjoyable and stress free.

Embark on Your Unforgettable Adventure

Embark on Your Unforgettable Adventure

With every detail perfectly planned, you’re ready to embark on a seamless, unforgettable journey. From the moment you arrive to your final farewell, we’re with you every step of the way to ensure everything exceeds your expectations.

Planning Your Perfect Safari

What's on your mind

African Safari FAQs

Embarking on an African safari is an adventure of a lifetime, but it’s natural to have questions about safety, health, costs, and logistics. This guide addresses the most common concerns and provides expert tips on visas, vaccinations, currency, and more—ensuring your safari is as seamless and enjoyable as possible.

Yes, safaris are generally very safe when organized by reputable tour operators like African Lux Safaris. Here’s how safety is prioritized:

  • Professional Guides: Trained guides accompany you on every excursion, ensuring your safety while maximizing wildlife viewing opportunities.
  • Secure Lodges and Camps: Accommodations are designed with safety in mind, often located in protected reserves.
  • Wildlife Encounters: Guides provide clear instructions on how to behave near wildlife to ensure a safe experience.

 

Tip: Always follow your guide’s advice and stay within designated areas.

Staying healthy on safari is simple with a bit of preparation. Protect your health while exploring, speak to your health care provider for personalized health care recommendations:

Here’s what to consider:

  1. Vaccinations:
    • Common recommendations include yellow fever (required for some countries), typhoid, and hepatitis A/B.
    • Check with your doctor at least 6-8 weeks before departure.
  2. Malaria Prevention:
    • Many safari destinations are in malaria-prone areas. Consult your doctor about antimalarial medication and use insect repellent.
    • Wear long sleeves and pants in the evenings.
  3. Food and Water:
    • Drink bottled or filtered water and eat at reputable lodges to avoid stomach issues.
  4. Travel Insurance:
    • Comprehensive insurance covering medical emergencies, evacuation, and trip cancellations is essential, especially when traveling to remote areas.
    • Visit our recommended Travel Insurance options.

Safari costs vary widely based on the level of luxury, duration, and destination. Here’s a breakdown:

  • Value Safaris ($350–$700/day): Comfortable lodges, guided group tours, and basic amenities.
  • Luxury Safaris ($700–$1,500+/day): High-end lodges, private guides, and personalized services.
  • Ultra-Luxury Safaris ($2,000+/day): Exclusive-use camps, private charters, and ultimate privacy and indulgence.

 

African Lux Safaris specializes in luxury and tailor-made experiences, ensuring you get exceptional value for your investment. Check out our guide on How Much Does a Safari Cost.

Before embarking on your safari, ensure your travel documents are in order:

  • Passports: Your passport should be valid for at least six months beyond your departure date.
  • Visas: Many African countries require a visa, which can often be applied for online or upon arrival. Always check the latest requirements for your destination.

Essentials: Bring copies of your passport, visa, emergency contacts, and travel insurance details.

Visa requirements vary by country and your nationality. Here are some general guidelines:

  1. East Africa (Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda & Rwanda):
    • Many travelers can obtain visas on arrival or apply online in advance.
    • Consider an East Africa Tourist Visa for multi-country visits (Kenya, Uganda & Rwanda).
    • Tanzania requires a separate visa.
  2. Southern Africa (South Africa, Botswana, Namibia):
    • Some countries, like South Africa, offer visa-free entry for certain nationalities.
    • Others may require pre-approved visas.

 

Tip: Check your passport validity—most countries require at least six months’ validity from the date of entry.

Vaccination requirements depend on your destination and travel history. Common considerations include:

  • Yellow Fever: Required if you’re traveling from or transiting through a yellow fever zone.
  • Routine Vaccines: Ensure your tetanus, measles, and flu vaccines are up to date.
  • Covid-19: Check current entry requirements for Covid-19 vaccinations or testing.

Consult your healthcare provider or a travel clinic for personalized advice.

The currency depends on your safari destination:

  1. East Africa:
    • Kenya: Kenyan Shilling (KES)
    • Tanzania: Tanzanian Shilling (TZS)
    • US dollars are widely accepted for tipping and payments.
  2. Southern Africa:
    • South Africa: South African Rand (ZAR)
    • Botswana: Botswana Pula (BWP)
    • Namibia: Namibian Dollar (NAD) or South African Rand.

Tip: Carry small denominations of US dollars for tips, but use local currency for most transactions. Contactless payment is becoming more accepted in most locations.

Major international airports in Africa serve as entry points to safari destinations. From there:

  1. East Africa:
    • Fly into Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (Nairobi, Kenya) or Kilimanjaro International Airport (Arusha, Tanzania).
    • Take domestic flights or drive to safari parks.
  2. Southern Africa:
    • Fly into OR Tambo International Airport (Johannesburg, South Africa) or Hosea Kutako International Airport (Windhoek, Namibia).
    • Use charter flights or road transfers to reach lodges.

Tip: African Lux Safaris can provide you guidance and assistance with flights, ensuring a smooth journey.

Refer to our Ultimate Safari Packing Guide for a detailed list. Key items include:

  • Neutral-colored clothing, sturdy footwear, and layers for changing temperatures.
  • Binoculars, a good camera, and sunscreen.
  • A reusable water bottle and insect repellent.

 

Tip: Stick to soft-sided luggage and adhere to weight limits for domestic flights.

Seasonal Highlights

Africa offers incredible wildlife experiences year-round. However, knowing the seasons will enhance your trip:

  • Dry Season (June–October): Perfect for game viewing as animals gather around waterholes. Witness the Great Migration in the Serengeti or enjoy prime wildlife sightings in South Africa’s Kruger National Park.
  • Green Season (November–May): Lush landscapes, fewer crowds, and the chance to see newborn animals. Perfect for birdwatchers and photographers.

 

Climate Tips

  • Coastal regions like Zanzibar are warm and humid.
  • Higher-altitude areas like Ngorongoro Crater or Kenya’s highlands can be chilly, especially at night.

Most lodges serve a mix of local and international cuisine. Breakfast might be served in the bush, providing a unique and immersive experience surrounded by nature. Lunches often consist of light, fresh dishes to keep you energized during the heat of the day, while dinners are frequently enjoyed under the stars, accompanied by the sounds of the wild. 

Lodges typically cater to various dietary preferences with prior notice, ensuring that every traveler has a delightful culinary experience.

Tipping:

    • Tipping is customary and appreciated. Plan for $10-$20 per day for guides and $5-$10 for lodge staff.

 

Cultural Sensitivity:

    • Dress modestly when visiting villages.
    • Learn a few phrases in the local language to connect with communities.
    • Many safaris include opportunities to visit local communities. Always ask permission before taking photos of people.

 

Connectivity:

While Africa’s vast wilderness often offers a digital detox, most lodges provide Wi-Fi in common areas.

    • Wi-Fi is available at most lodges but may be limited and slower in remote areas.
    • Embrace the opportunity to unplug and immerse yourself in nature.

 

Pro Tip: Carry a universal adapter for charging devices as plug types and voltages vary across countries.

Ready to Begin Your African Adventure

Let’s craft the safari of your dreams. Share your vision, and we’ll make it a reality.

Our tailored experiences are designed to give you unforgettable African adventure in Kenya, Tanzania, South Africa, and beyond from luxurious safari tours to relaxing retreats that fit your style and budget. 

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Protect Your Adventure

Traveling to Africa is an investment in unforgettable memories. Protect your trip with reliable travel insurance that ensures you’re covered every step of the way—so you can focus on the adventure, not the risks.