The Lowdown on African Safari – Q&A with The Experts
Contributors are not employed, compensated or governed by TD, opinions and statements are from the contributor directly
A safari is often perceived to a ‘once in a lifetime’ holiday. With a huge choice of styles and destinations, safari planning can be a mind boggling experience. To assist in narrowing down on the right experience for you, the safari experts Mahlatini African Travel has answered some of the most common questions.
Q. What animals can I expect to see?
A. The countries of East and Southern Africa offer vastly different terrain and wildlife. The focus for most first time safari goers is usually the Big 5 animals (lion, leopard, elephant, rhino and buffalo) and while they are easier to see in certain parks above others, they are common sightings in most game reserves in Africa. If you are after particular animals or particular experiences it is best to chat to safari experts who will be able to steer you towards the right parks.
Q. When is best to go on a safari?
A. There is no best time to visit Africa as a whole but there are best times to visit particular areas. For a first time safari it is usually advised that you travel in the ‘dry season’ from June to October. With the grasses lower and the animals congregating around water sources you are maximizing your chances of seeing the animals.
Q. How much will a safari holiday cost?
A. This is an impossible question to answer as there is such a wide variety of accommodation options available and seasonal rates to apply. If this is to be a ‘once in a lifetime’ holiday that you should be prepared to pay good money for a decent and memorable safari. It is best to chat to an expert who will assess your budget, suggest the right country and accommodation for you and explain, if necessary, ways to cut costs by travelling outside of the peak season.
Q. What are my accommodation options?
A. There are a number of accommodation options available whilst on safari including large safari lodges with all the bells and whistles and more intimate tented camps which range from the very rustic to the downright luxurious. Often it is budget which determines which option you choose however it is important to know the experiences you get from each.
Q. What clothing should I take with me?
A. Pack neutral coloured clothing as anything too bright and colourful will attract an animal’s attention, white is also out of the question. Choose clothes that are breathable and lightweight with some long sleeved tops and trousers to fend off insects. ‘Must Haves’ include: hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, warm / rain jacket, camera, binoculars and sunglasses.
Q. Should I be worried about animal attacks?
A. As long as you do what the expert guides tell you, you should be fine. The camps and lodges are all very safety conscious.
Q. Should I be concerned about malaria?
A. Your risk of contracting malaria is varied, depending on the season in which you travel and the place you are travelling to. The only place offering malaria free safaris is South Africa. If you are travelling to a malaria area seek the advice of a doctor and do take the necessary anti-malarials.
Q. How do I go about booking my safari?
A. Only book a safari with an expert operator. Do your research on the companies and don’t be afraid to call a few and test their knowledge. You should soon find a company you ‘click’ with and trust who will hopefully provide you with the dream holiday you are after.
Comments are closed.