Who Are You? | Safari Advisor

Select Criteria

First Time Safari Traveler

This will be my first safari experience, or my first visit to Africa. I don't know where to begin!
...show more
We know how hard it can be to figure out where to go, what to do, and how much to spend on a safari. That’s why we created Safari Wizard: we want to answer your questions and help you plan your dream vacation.

First you should review the top four things to consider as you plan your trip. For your first safari experience, we recommend going to one of the more popular and populated safari destinations, rather than a remote location. Check out our Where and When to Go? section to learn more about popular destinations and weather conditions. Then read What to Do? for activity ideas. When you’ve gotten a sense of which country to visit and when—and you’re ready to schedule your safari—check out our What Else do I Need to Know? section. We have information on what to pack and what to be prepared for before, during, and after your journey.

Have Fun!!

Budget Traveler

I am looking for a memorable experience but I do not want to break the bank! I have a limited travel budget and am looking for ways to save money on my safari.
...show more
You don’t have to spend a fortune on a safari. Safari Wizard has options for the budget-conscious traveler.

The cost of your safari will largely depend on how comfortably you wish to travel, the quality of your service provider, and your destination. Price can also vary if you’re traveling with a group or on a private tour, but in many cases, a private safari need not cost more than one with a large group.

Budget travelers may want to consider a destination such as Kenya, Botswana, or South Africa. The infrastructure in these countries is very good, which can help you save on transportation costs.

If you are looking for a memorable and cost-effective experience, consider staying at Muweti Bush Lodge in Limpopo, South Africa. The staff is friendly and you will love the owners!

If you are up for an adventure and don’t mind “roughing it,” consider a mobile-tented safari and explore Africa’s wildlife the old-fashioned way: sleep in a tent under the stars, eat delicious food prepared by the guides, and sit by a campfire. Depending on the safari, your camp staff may take care of all the chores, or you may participate in setting up and maintaining the camp. Toilet and shower tents are typically shared by guests. Camping safaris also put travelers incredibly close to animals, all while saving you money.

Luxury Traveler

I want to be pampered on my safari. I am willing to pay for a luxurious experience and need all the amenities I am accustomed to at home. I am wiling to travel to the most remote location if it enhances my experience.
...show more
You will definitely want to experience a high-end game lodge or luxury camping safari.

Most of the luxury lodges on Safari Wizard are located within or on the boundaries of a game reserve, offering magnificent views of the wilderness landscape. Game lodges typically use permanent tents, bungalows or chalets as accommodations, or a mix of all of these. These accommodations are usually built atop hills and near watering holes, offering you breathtaking views of the wildlife in their natural habitat. You will enjoy the highest standard of hospitality and amenities such as king- or queen-sized mosquito-netted beds, air conditioning, en-suite bathrooms with hair dryers, heated swimming pools and jacuzzis, spas and recreational facilities, and excellent dining.

We also recommend trying a luxury camping safari, which combines the true Out of Africa experience of camping in the wild with four- or five-star dining and amenities. Permanently tented campsites are set up before your arrival, equipped with beds, running water and electricity. Campsites are fully staffed with cooks, waiters, cleaners and others to service your every need. Luxury camping safaris are perfect for a small group or couple looking for a private, tailor made experience, complete with personalized service.

Adventure Traveler

I am a thrill-seeker and I want a truly out-of-the-box experience. I am not afraid to try new things and take risks – I love adventure!
...show more
Here are a few ideas for an adventurous traveler like you:

Dive with the great white sharks in South Africa. Ever seen the movie “Jaws?” Get up close and personal with Jaws and his friends while marveling at the deep majestic ocean
Conquer Africa’s peaks – climb Mt. Kilimanjaro in Tanzania. The tallest mountain in Africa, Mt. Kilimanjaro boasts more than 20,000 climbers per year. While you’re in Tanzania, also check out Lake Manyara National Park. Or go off the beaten track and hike through the Ruwenzoris, or Mountains of the Moon (Uganda/Congo), which are the highest mountain chain on the entire African continent!
Raft down the white water rapids on the Zambezi River, below Victoria Falls, in Zambia/Zimbabwe. Hear and feel the churn of the Class 5 rapids and experience one of the most thrilling rides of your life!
Hike through Kruger National Park in South Africa and get up close and personal with Africa’s wildlife with Londolozi. If the weather permits, you can sleep out on an elevated wooden platform and enjoy a unique experience of the bush. Your peaceful rest beneath the stars may only be disturbed by the occasional rumble of the elephants as they pass by or the call of hyenas as they prowl at night!
Go skydiving! Cape Town has very scenic skydiving locations, including a jump over the Atlantic Ocean, with fantastic views of endless seas and beautiful coastline. Hermanus, on the West Coast of South Africa, offers great skydiving and abseiling; you may even spot a whale in season (June to October). Kenya offers unforgettable skydiving over Diani Beach. Enjoy stunning views of the tranquil Indian Ocean as you soar effortlessly through the sky.

Romantic Traveler

I will be traveling with my significant other. We are head over heels in love and want a relaxing, luxurious experience, just for the two of us!
...show more
Did you know you can get married on safari? Africa boasts several luxury lodges fit for weddings, honeymoons and anniversary celebrations. If you are looking for a truly out-of-the-box experience, consider selecting one of these lodges that offer hot-air balloon rides. Soar into the sky – just you and that special someone, guided by an experienced pilot. Time your trip correctly and you can view the spectacular wildebeest migration in the Serengeti or Masai Mara from up above. Upon landing, celebrate your journey and your love with a champagne breakfast in the bush!

For a memorable honeymoon experience, here are a few ideas:

Stay in one of South Africa’s luxury game lodges (don’t forget to ask for the honeymoon suite!) where you can connect with the wilderness and relax, together
Take an adventurous self drive to explore Botswana or Namibia in your own private, fully equipped vehicle
Head straight to the romantic beaches of Zanzibar or Pemba for a week of rest and relaxation

Depending on where you go, you can expect to spend between $2,500 and $7,500 per person per week on your honeymoon, plus airfare.

Family Traveler

I will be traveling with my family and their health and safety is my top priority. I have children and am looking for comfortable accommodations and fun activities we can all enjoy.
...show more
Protect your family’s health by visiting a malaria-free region such as Waterberg or Madikwe Game Reserve in South Africa. Ant's Hill in the magnificent Waterberg region of South Africa is a very family friendly destination. The lodge's facilities are ideal for kids, such as the heated swimming pool, trampoline, sand pits, a volley ball net with a selection of toys and books. Ant's Hill also has a unique policy of allowing children of all ages to join their parents on game viewing activities, so the entire family can share these special encounters with wildlife. Ponies and riding lessons are also available for children.

Nature Lover

I appreciate nature and want to gain insight from an experienced game ranger. Though I value luxury amenities, I am more interested in getting as close to wildlife in their natural habitat as possible.
...show more
Experience the ultimate African adventure on a horseback safari. Canter alongside giraffe or zebra or splash through the flood plains. Ant’s Hill in the malaria-free Waterberg region of South Africa, offers several options for both the professional rider and the absolute beginner. Basic lessons for non-riders are available at both reserves.

Or take a boat, canoe or kayak along Africa’s rivers and lakes. Aside from the magical scenery of the wilderness and spectacular sunsets, canoe safaris allow you to approach big game such as hippo, buffalo and elephant, sometimes even closer than you would in a vehicle. There are several options for viewing game and birds by boat in Botswana, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Malawi, South Africa, Tanzania and Uganda. Check out our recommended game viewing times by country.

Volunteer

I want to donate my time and talents to help improve communities and the natural environment in Africa. I will be available for several days to several weeks. I don’t mind rolling up my sleeves and working hard. I just want to make a difference.
...show more
At times, our partners recruit volunteers to assist them with their eco-tourism, sustainability and community development projects. Responsibilities can range from fundraising, planting trees, assisting with campsite set up/maintenance, and community outreach. You can also volunteer to bring items with you on your safari.

Ant's Hill participates in “Pack for a Purpose”, a program which allows guests to bring items, ranging from bandages to blankets, to the lodge for donation to local community organizations. Londolozi, in South Africa’s Kruger National Park, is another one of our favorite lodges because they share our commitment to sustainability.

Disabled Traveler

I am in a wheelchair and am hesitant to go on safari. Will I be able to participate in activities? Will the lodge have facilities for me?
...show more
Don’t allow a disability to stop you from traveling. Look for a wheelchair accessible campsite or lodge and enjoy all the adventure of an African safari (select Disabled Facilities as one of your Lodge Facilities criteria). We recommend camping out in a destination like Kruger National Park in South Africa for an unforgettable experience. The staff at Sabi Sabi, Dulini, Savute, and Exeter River will ensure that you have a safe and comfortable trip.

Pressed for Time

I only have a few days to travel and I want an efficient, high-quality safari. I will be visiting various destinations and want to minimize my travel time.
...show more
Try a fly-in safari . You will be flown, via helicopter or plane, to or near the reserve of your choice and picked up at the landing strip. At the lodge, enjoy a sumptuous breakfast a two to three hour game drive, and a sumptuous lunch. Fly to your next destination that same afternoon! Fly-in safaris are very popular in Botswana, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Kenya, Namibia and Tanzania.

Check out the Activities and How do I get there? criteria to find a helicopter or airplane safari.

Select Criteria

Our Top 5 Recommendations

Malaria Free Region

Children Welcome

How do I get there?

Safari Type

Game Reserve

Activities

Cost per person per package

Cost per person per night

Location

Special Features

Lodge Facilities

Room Facilities

Animals

Group Size

Lodge Size

Number of days