Which African Safari holidays are best for me?
Holidays to Africa offer a vast choice of safari destinations, from the wide open plains of East Africa, renowned for their easy game viewing (especially the Masai Mara in Kenya & the Serengeti in Tanzania) to the bushveld of South Africa and Botswana, with their more diverse species. Namibia & the arid Kalahari offer a completely different game viewing experience.
For most people, the time of year you are planning to travel will have the greatest influence on the African safari holidays we recommend, as this is a vast continent with many different weather patterns. Generally try and avoid the rainy season in the country you are visiting, as the animals take shelter and are much less likely to be seen. As there is plenty of ground water, they also do not need to search out the waterholes. Gravel roads can also be extremely slippery in the rain. The dry season is generally best for game viewing, as the grasses are also lower at that time of year, making game viewing easier.
The next most important consideration is the type of animals you wish to see. Most first-time African safari holidays are to South Africa, Kenya or Tanzania, as these countries offer a classic safari experience, with excellent Big Five game viewing all year round. They also offer a wide range of accommodation options at different price points.
But if its elephants you particularly wish to see, head for Chobe in Botswana or Amboseli in Kenya. For lions visit the Masai Mara in Kenya, the Serengeti in Tanzania, or the Kruger National Park or Madikwe Game Reserve both in South Africa, To see rhino head to Hluhluwe, also in South Africa, and for leopard go to South Luangwa in Zambia, or the Sabi region of the Kruger National Park. For gorillas, chimps and other primates, head for Uganda or Rwanda and for lemurs you must travel to Madagascar. Cheetah like the vast open plains of Namibia.
Budget is another important consideration for most people, with Botswana and Tanzania tending to be the most expensive destinations for an African safari, whilst South Africa and Kenya tend to have the most affordable options. Kenya is also particularly child friendly on holidays to Africa, with many family room options.
If you have health issues and do not wish to take malaria tablets on holidays to Africa, then South Africa is the destination for you - as it has several outstanding malaria-free game reserves including Madikwe, Hluhluwe, Nambiti Hills, Kgalagadi, Shamwari, Amakhala and Kariega.
Please do contact us to discuss your requirements and we will be happy to advise on the best African safari holidays options for you.