Going on safari is a magical experience. Imagine riding through the African bush under a pink, early morning or evening sky to catch the Africa Big Five – leopards, lion, rhino, elephant and buffalo. It’s the chance of a lifetime to see majestic animals in their natural habitat, that you would ordinarily only see in photos or captivity.
Planning to go on Safari? Here is what you should know to have the best experience.
The top packing rule is to pack light. You may be constantly travelling between parks and conservation areas. So, you won’t want to be burdened by packing and moving heavy luggage.
Be mindful of the clothing you choose. “The wrong clothes can mean scaring the animals away or getting attacked to tsetse flies,” according to a guide by AmandaWanders.com.
Keep in mind that you will be exposed to outdoor temperatures. Most trips will happen in the early mornings and evenings, as this is when animals are most active. The temperatures can be surprisingly low during these times, greatly contrasting with the heat of midday.
Dress in multiple layers of breathable, light fabrics. Wear long pants. At least one of your layers should have long sleeves. Bring a waterproof rain jacket, especially if you will be on safari during the rainy or shoulder seasons. Your rain jacket can double as an outermost layer for a chilly night.
Here’s a detailed safari clothing guide from AmandaWanders.com.
Choose light earth tone colors – tans, browns, forest greens and similar colors, in solids or minimal patterns.
“A budget safari costs $150 a person per night. A mid-range safari costs $350 and a luxury safari costs $750. Extreme top safaris might potentially cost $1,500 or more per night,” writes Laba Africa Expeditions.
Many factors can impact the cost of your safari including accommodations, location, the season and more. Check out the Safari cost chart by Laba Africa Expeditions, which shows the average cost of Safaris in six African nations by accommodation type, for solo and group travellers.
Lodging may be the biggest price determinant. Safaris that offer luxurious lodges or campgrounds on private conservancies tend to cost the most. Choosing budget camping for lodges without all the trimmings is sure to save you money.
Going on safari during the rainy season or shoulder season may also be less expensive. “In fact, parks such as Lake Manyara National Park are actually at their best during the rainy season,” writes Shadows of Africa. “The additional rainfall attracts hippos, crocodiles, and more to drink at the lake’s edge making it easier than ever to spot wildlife.”
Though the skills of an experienced guide are invaluable, look into self-drive safaris if you would like to save some money. “Many people are stunned to discover that much of southern Africa is less expensive than East Africa because park infrastructure is often superior and self-drive and camping safaris are easier,” writes Laba Africa Expeditions.
Booking travel insurance with emergency medical coverage is a good idea for any trip. But it is essential if you are going on safari. Your government health insurance plan may not fully you cover you during a medical emergency abroad. Journeying outdoors in remote areas can also expose you to more health risks.
Malaria is present throughout much of southern Africa and East Africa, and though the risk of transmission is minimal, it is not zero. Even if you take malaria prophylaxis prescribed by your general practitioner, you should have travel insurance with emergency medical coverage, in case you develop malaria or another condition.
Many safaris also feature trekking, which can lead to injuries such as sprains and cuts that may require treatment, due to rugged terrain.
Allianz Global Assistance offers emergency medical benefits that may help you fill health coverage gaps during your safari. We also offer comprehensive plans that include trip cancellation benefits and coverage for delayed or lost baggage if eligible.
Chobe National Park in Botswana has the world’s largest concentration of elephants. The park also offers great options for river-based Safaris for spotting a plethora of animals on the shores of the Okavango Delta.
Masai Mara National Reserve is one place where you can witness The Great Migration, an incredible natural phenomenon. Every year, “millions of wildebeest and zebras cross the Mara River from the Serengeti in southern Tanzania into Kenya’s Masai Mara National Reserve,” writes Lonely Planet.
Namibia has excellent options for self-driving safaris. “The classic circuit starts in Windhoek, where you’ll rent a fully equipped 4WD camper van or a decent gravel-road car. From there, you’ll head to Sossusvlei in the Namib Desert for incredible vistas, circle up to Swakopmund for coastal adventures and end at Etosha National Park, where elephants, rhinos and giraffes strut their stuff,” writes Lonely Planet.
Kruger National Park in South Africa is a great destination for first-time safari goers. Plenty of touring companies offer a range of Safari options for all budgets and self-driving safaris are possible on the park’s paved roads. You will see the Big Five, giraffes, cheetahs and more!
Serengeti National Park in Tanzania offers big cat sightings year-round on the Seronera River. This huge park – ten times larger than Masai Mara in Kenya – has astounding habitat diversity. You’ll be amazed by the Serengeti’s plains, woodlands and riverine forests.
As a world leader in travel protection, Allianz Global Assistance helps many Canadians and visitors to Canada annually answer the call of adventure with confidence every year. Let us be there for you too.
This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
Travel insurance is underwritten by CUMIS General Insurance Company, a member of The Co-operators Group of Companies, administered by Allianz Global Assistance, which is a registered business name of AZGA Service Canada Inc.
