African safari travel companies are a great way to experience the beauty and wonder of Africa. They offer a variety of tours and safaris that can be tailored to your interests and budget. Whether you’re looking for a luxury safari or a more budget-friendly option, there’s an African safari travel company that’s right for you.
Editor’s Note: African safari travel companies are an important part of the tourism industry in Africa. They provide employment for local people and help to generate revenue for conservation efforts. By choosing to book your safari with a reputable African safari travel company, you can help to support the local economy and protect the wildlife of Africa.
We’ve done the research and dug into the details, so you don’t have to. Our comprehensive guide to African safari travel companies will help you make the right decision for your next African adventure.
Key Differences
| Feature | Budget | Luxury |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $100-$500 per day | $500-$1,000 per day |
| Accommodations | Tents or basic lodges | Luxury lodges or private villas |
| Food | Basic meals | Gourmet meals |
| Activities | Game drives, walking safaris, cultural visits | Game drives, walking safaris, hot air balloon rides, private dinners |
Main Article Topics
- How to choose the right African safari travel company
- What to expect on an African safari
- Tips for planning your African safari
1. Experience
When choosing an African safari travel company, it’s important to consider their experience and track record. A company that has been in business for a long time is more likely to be reliable and trustworthy. They will also have a better understanding of the African safari industry and be able to provide you with a better experience.
- Length of time in business: A company that has been in business for a long time is more likely to have a good track record and be financially stable.
- Reputation: Read online reviews to see what other travelers have said about the company. A company with a good reputation is more likely to provide you with a positive experience.
- Awards and recognition: A company that has won awards or recognition from reputable organizations is more likely to be a reliable and trustworthy operator.
- Certifications: A company that is certified by a reputable organization, such as the African Travel & Tourism Association (ATTA), is more likely to adhere to high standards of safety and quality.
By considering the experience and track record of an African safari travel company, you can increase your chances of having a positive and memorable safari experience.
2. Reputation
When choosing an African safari travel company, it is important to consider the company’s reputation. This can be done by reading online reviews from other travelers. Reviews can provide valuable insights into the company’s strengths and weaknesses, as well as the overall quality of their safaris.
- Quality of accommodations: Reviews can provide information about the quality of the accommodations on the safari, including the cleanliness, comfort, and amenities.
- Quality of food: Reviews can also provide information about the quality of the food on the safari, including the variety, freshness, and taste.
- Quality of service: Reviews can provide insights into the quality of service provided by the company, including the friendliness, helpfulness, and professionalism of the staff.
- Value for money: Reviews can help you assess whether or not the safari is good value for money, based on the price and the overall experience.
By reading online reviews, you can get a sense of what other travelers have experienced on safaris with the company. This can help you make an informed decision about which company to choose for your own safari.
3. Price
When choosing an African safari travel company, it is important to consider the price of the safari and whether or not there are any hidden costs. The price of a safari can vary depending on a number of factors, including the length of the safari, the time of year, the type of accommodations, and the activities included. It is important to compare prices from different companies before making a decision.
- Length of the safari: The longer the safari, the more it will cost. This is because the company will have to pay for more accommodations, food, and activities.
- Time of year: Safaris are typically more expensive during the dry season (May-October) when the weather is more favorable. During the wet season (November-April), safaris are often less expensive, but the weather can be more unpredictable.
- Type of accommodations: The type of accommodations you choose will also affect the price of the safari. Luxury accommodations, such as private villas and luxury lodges, will be more expensive than basic accommodations, such as tents and campsites.
- Activities included: The activities included in the safari will also affect the price. Safaris that include activities such as game drives, walking safaris, and hot air balloon rides will be more expensive than safaris that only include game drives.
It is also important to be aware of any hidden costs that may not be included in the upfront price of the safari. These costs can include things such as park entrance fees, visa fees, and tips for guides and staff. It is important to factor these costs into your budget when planning your safari.
4. Destinations
When choosing an African safari travel company, it is important to consider the destinations that they offer. Do they go to the destinations that you are interested in? If you are interested in seeing the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino), then you will need to choose a company that offers safaris to national parks and game reserves where these animals are found. If you are interested in a more cultural experience, then you may want to choose a company that offers safaris that include visits to local villages and historical sites.
It is also important to consider the time of year that you are planning to travel. Some destinations are best visited during the dry season (May-October), while others are best visited during the wet season (November-April). Your chosen safari company should be able to advise you on the best time to visit your chosen destination.
By considering the destinations that you are interested in and the time of year that you are planning to travel, you can narrow down your choices and find the perfect African safari travel company for you.
| Destination | Best time to visit | What to see |
|---|---|---|
| Kruger National Park, South Africa | May-October | The Big Five, as well as other animals such as zebras, giraffes, and wildebeest |
| Serengeti National Park, Tanzania | June-October | The Great Migration, as well as other animals such as lions, elephants, and cheetahs |
| Masai Mara National Reserve, Kenya | July-October | The Great Migration, as well as other animals such as lions, elephants, and leopards |
| Etosha National Park, Namibia | May-October | The Big Five, as well as other animals such as zebras, giraffes, and springboks |
| Chobe National Park, Botswana | May-October | The Big Five, as well as other animals such as hippos, crocodiles, and elephants |
5. Accommodations
The type of accommodations included in an African safari can vary depending on the company you choose and the destination you are visiting. However, most companies offer a range of options to suit all budgets and preferences.
Budget-friendly options typically include camping or staying in basic lodges. Camping can be a great way to experience the African wilderness up close and personal, but it is important to note that it can also be uncomfortable and unsafe. Lodges offer a more comfortable experience, but they can be more expensive.
Mid-range options typically include staying in more comfortable lodges or tented camps. These accommodations offer a good balance of comfort and affordability.
Luxury options typically include staying in luxury lodges or private villas. These accommodations offer the highest level of comfort and service, but they can also be very expensive.
No matter what type of accommodation you choose, it is important to make sure that it is comfortable and safe. You will be spending a lot of time in your accommodations, so it is important to make sure that they meet your needs.
Here are some tips for choosing the right accommodations for your African safari:
- Consider your budget. Accommodations can range from budget-friendly to very expensive, so it is important to set a budget before you start shopping.
- Consider your comfort level. If you are not comfortable camping, then you should choose a lodge or tented camp.
- Consider your safety concerns. Make sure that the accommodations you choose are safe and secure.
- Read online reviews. This can be a great way to get feedback from other travelers about the accommodations you are considering.
By following these tips, you can choose the right accommodations for your African safari and ensure that you have a comfortable and safe experience.
| Type of Accommodation | Comfort Level | Safety | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Camping | Low | Low | $ |
| Basic lodges | Medium | Medium | $$ |
| Tented camps | Medium | Medium | $$ |
| Luxury lodges | High | High | $$$ |
| Private villas | High | High | $$$$ |
6. Food
The food served on an African safari can vary depending on the company you choose and the destination you are visiting. However, most companies offer a variety of options to suit all tastes and dietary needs.
Many companies offer traditional African cuisine, which is typically hearty and flavorful. This can include dishes such as stews, curries, and grilled meats. Western cuisine is also often available, as well as vegetarian and vegan options.
If you have any special dietary needs, it is important to inform the company in advance. They will be able to make arrangements to ensure that you have food that meets your needs.
Here are some tips for choosing the right food options for your African safari:
- Consider your dietary needs. If you have any special dietary needs, be sure to inform the company in advance.
- Consider your taste preferences. If you have any strong food preferences, be sure to let the company know.
- Be adventurous. Trying new foods is part of the fun of traveling. Be sure to try some of the local cuisine.
By following these tips, you can choose the right food options for your African safari and ensure that you have a delicious and enjoyable experience.
| Type of Cuisine | Description | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Traditional African Cuisine | Hearty and flavorful dishes | Stews, curries, grilled meats |
| Western Cuisine | Familiar dishes from around the world | Pasta, pizza, burgers |
| Vegetarian Cuisine | Plant-based dishes | Vegetable curries, lentil soups, salads |
| Vegan Cuisine | Plant-based dishes without any animal products | Vegan curries, tofu stir-fries, vegetable salads |
7. Activities
When choosing an African safari travel company, it is important to consider the activities that are included in the safari. Different companies offer different activities, so it is important to choose a company that offers the activities that you are interested in.
One of the most popular activities on an African safari is the game drive. Game drives are typically conducted in open-air vehicles, and they allow you to get up close and personal with the animals. Game drives are a great way to see a variety of animals, including lions, elephants, giraffes, and zebras.
Walking safaris are another popular activity on African safaris. Walking safaris allow you to get even closer to the animals, and they can be a great way to learn about the local ecosystem. Walking safaris are typically led by experienced guides who can help you identify the animals and plants that you see.
In addition to game drives and walking safaris, many African safari travel companies also offer a variety of other activities, such as:
- Hot air balloon rides
- Bush walks
- Cultural visits
- Birdwatching
- Photography safaris
When choosing an African safari travel company, it is important to consider the activities that are included in the safari. Different companies offer different
activities, so it is important to choose a company that offers the activities that you are interested in.
8. Guides
When choosing an African safari travel company, it is important to consider the qualifications of the guides. Experienced and knowledgeable guides can make all the difference in your safari experience. They can help you spot animals, identify plants, and learn about the local culture.
Here are some things to look for when evaluating the qualifications of a safari guide:
- Certification: Look for guides who are certified by a reputable organization, such as the African Safari Guides Association (ASGA). This certification ensures that the guide has met certain standards of training and experience.
- Experience: Ask about the guide’s experience leading safaris. How many years have they been guiding? What types of safaris have they led? The more experience a guide has, the better equipped they will be to handle any situation that may arise.
- Knowledge: A good safari guide will have a deep knowledge of the African bush, its animals, and its plants. They should be able to answer your questions and provide you with interesting information about the wildlife you see.
By choosing an experienced and knowledgeable guide, you can ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable safari experience.
| Certification | Experience | Knowledge |
|---|---|---|
| African Safari Guides Association (ASGA) | 5+ years leading safaris | Deep knowledge of the African bush, its animals, and its plants |
9. Sustainability
Sustainability is an increasingly important consideration for travelers, and African safari travel companies are no exception. Tourists want to know that their travel is not harming the environment or local communities. In fact, many travelers are looking for ways to travel that can benefit local communities and conservation efforts.
There are number of ways that African safari travel companies can demonstrate their commitment to sustainability. These include:
- Using renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind power.
- Reducing their carbon footprint by using fuel-efficient vehicles and reducing waste.
- Supporting local communities by hiring local staff and using local suppliers.
- Educating guests about the importance of conservation and responsible tourism.
- Partnering with conservation organizations to support their work.
By choosing a sustainable African safari travel company, you can help to ensure that your travel has a positive impact on the environment and local communities. Here are a few examples of sustainable African safari travel companies:
- Asilia Africa is a leading sustainable safari company that operates in Tanzania, Kenya, and Zambia. Asilia has a strong commitment to conservation and community development, and they have been recognized for their efforts by the World Travel and Tourism Council.
→ Cause and Effect: Asilia Africa’s commitment to sustainability has led to positive outcomes for the environment and local communities. For example, Asilia has helped to establish a number of community-based conservation projects, which have benefited local people and wildlife.
Wilderness Safaris is another sustainable safari company that operates in Botswana, Namibia, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. Wilderness Safaris has a long history of supporting conservation and community development, and they have been recognized for their efforts by the United Nations Environment Programme.
→ Importance: Wilderness Safaris’ commitment to sustainability is essential for the long-term success of their business. By protecting the environment and supporting local communities, Wilderness Safaris is ensuring that they will have a sustainable future.
Natural Habitat Adventures is a sustainable safari company that operates in Tanzania, Kenya, and Rwanda. Natural Habitat Adventures has a strong focus on education and conservation, and they have been recognized for their efforts by the National Geographic Society.
→ Practical Significance: Natural Habitat Adventures’ commitment to sustainability has had a positive impact on the lives of local people and wildlife. For example, Natural Habitat Adventures has helped to establish a number of schools and health clinics in remote communities.
These are just a few examples of the many sustainable African safari travel companies that are available. By choosing to travel with a sustainable company, you can help to ensure that your travel has a positive impact on the environment and local communities.
| Company | Sustainability Initiatives | Recognition |
|---|---|---|
| Asilia Africa | Renewable energy, community-based conservation projects | World Travel and Tourism Council |
| Wilderness Safaris | Conservation and community development programs | United Nations Environment Programme |
| Natural Habitat Adventures | Education and conservation initiatives | National Geographic Society |
African Safari Travel Companies FAQs
African safari travel companies offer a wide range of tours and safaris to suit every taste and budget. Whether you’re looking for a luxury safari or a more budget-friendly option, there’s an African safari travel company that’s right for you. Here are the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about African safari travel companies:
Question 1: How do I choose the right African safari travel company?
When choosing an African safari travel company, it is important to consider your budget, interests, and travel style. There are many different types of African safari travel companies, so it is important to do your research and find a company that is a good fit for you.
Question 2: What should I expect on an African safari?
An African safari is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that will allow you to see some of the most amazing wildlife on the planet. You can expect to see lions, elephants, giraffes, zebras, and many other animals. You will also have the opportunity to learn about the local culture and history.
Question 3: What are the different types of African safaris?
There are many different types of African safaris, from luxury safaris to budget-friendly options. You can choose from a variety of activities, such as game drives, walking safaris, and cultural visits. You can also choose to stay in a variety of accommodations, from luxury lodges to tented camps.
Question 4: How much does an African safari cost?
The cost of an African safari can vary depending on the type of safari, the length of the safari, and the time of year. However, you can expect to pay anywhere from $100 to $1,000 per day for an African safari.
Question 5: What are the best African safari companies?
There are many great African safari companies to choose from. Some of the most popular companies incl
ude Asilia Africa, Wilderness Safaris, and Natural Habitat Adventures.
Question 6: How do I book an African safari?
You can book an African safari through a travel agent or directly with a safari company. It is important to book your safari in advance, especially if you are traveling during peak season.
Summary: African safari travel companies offer a variety of tours and safaris to suit every taste and budget. When choosing an African safari travel company, it is important to consider your budget, interests, and travel style. There are many different types of African safaris to choose from, so you can find the perfect safari for you.
Transition: Now that you know more about African safari travel companies, you can start planning your dream safari. There are many different companies to choose from, so take your time and find a company that is a good fit for you. With so many amazing things to see and do, an African safari is sure to be an unforgettable experience.
African Safari Travel Company Tips
Planning an African safari is an exciting adventure, but it can also be a bit daunting. With so many different companies to choose from, it can be hard to know where to start. Here are a few tips to help you choose the right African safari travel company for your needs.
Tip 1: Consider your budget. African safaris can range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars per day. It is important to set a budget before you start shopping for a safari company.
Tip 2: Decide what type of safari you want. There are many different types of safaris to choose from, including luxury safaris, budget safaris, and family safaris. Decide what type of safari you are interested in before you start looking for a company.
Tip 3: Do your research. There are many reputable African safari travel companies out there, but there are also a few that are not so reputable. Do your research before you book a safari to make sure you are choosing a company that is reliable and trustworthy.
Tip 4: Read reviews. One of the best ways to learn about a safari company is to read reviews from other travelers. This can give you a good idea of what to expect from the company and whether or not they are a good fit for you.
Tip 5: Ask for recommendations. If you know anyone who has been on an African safari, ask them for recommendations. They can give you valuable insights into different safari companies and help you choose the right one for you.
Summary: By following these tips, you can choose the right African safari travel company for your needs and have a truly unforgettable experience.
Transition: Now that you know how to choose an African safari travel company, it’s time to start planning your dream safari. There are many amazing places to visit in Africa, so take your time and research different destinations to find the perfect one for you.
African Safari Travel Companies
African safari travel companies offer a wide range of tours and safaris to suit every taste and budget. Whether you’re looking for a luxury safari or a more budget-friendly option, there’s an African safari travel company that’s right for you. When choosing an African safari travel company, it is important to consider your budget, interests, and travel style. There are many different types of African safaris to choose from, so you can find the perfect safari for you.
African safaris are an incredible way to experience the beauty and diversity of Africa. They offer the opportunity to see some of the most amazing wildlife on the planet, and to learn about the local culture and history. If you’re planning an African safari, be sure to do your research and choose a reputable safari company. With so many amazing things to see and do, an African safari is sure to be an unforgettable experience.
