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Africa Safari Tours & Vacations

• Africa Safari Tours & Holidays

Take a walk on the wild side on an African safari.

The word “safari” means “journey” in Swahili. And a safari in Africa is all about the journey. While seeing a leopard munch on a freshly caught gazelle or spying a curious lion cub venture away from its mother’s protective embrace will be highlights of your trip, you’ll discover the journey is as much a part of your trip as the destination.

The road-trip games you play with your new travel mates, the feeling of the wind (and maybe a little dust) in your hair when you’re travelling down long, winding roads, and the young Maasai boy who waved at you as you passed him along the road will stay with you long after you return.

Our African safari tours

Okavango experience, 10 days from 1647.

Tour through Johannesburg, Maun, Chobe, the Okavango Delta and Victoria Falls on a ten...

Explore Southern Africa

18 days from 3452.

Spend some time exploring Botswana, South Africa and Zimbabwe with included safari...

Gorillas & Game Parks

16 days from 4515.

Encounter the wildlife of Kenya and Uganda on this adventure including a gorilla trek...

Cape Town to Vic Falls

22 days from 3055.

Spend three weeks exploring South Africa, Namibia, Botswana and Zimbabwe, from Cape...

East Africa Highlights

10 days from 2952.

Travel through East Africa from Kenya to Tanzania, stopping at the Masai Mara, the...

Tailor-Made trips

Take four or more on an exclusive trip and tailor your itinerary

Kenya Wildlife Safari

8 days from 1437.

Experience Kenyan wildlife on an eight day trip travelling from Nairobi to Lake...

Botswana Highlights

9 days from 2635.

Discover the culture, wildlife and waterways of Botswana on this upgraded adventure...

Road to Zanzibar

12 days from 2593.

Experience the beauty of the Ngorongoro and Serengeti, Usambara Mountains and Zanzibar...

The Masai Heartlands

15 days from 3596.

Uncover Kenya and Tanzania on a 2 week trip with Serengeti safaris, Ngorongoro, Nakuru,...

Serengeti Trail

8 days from 1887.

Roam the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, and Amboseli National Park to spot Africa's Big...

Vic Falls to Kruger

9 days from 1516.

Take on a safari adventure through Hwange National Park, Matobo National Park, Kruger...

Gorillas, Game Parks & Beaches

27 days from 7240.

Go deep in East Africa on this epic trip, including Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania and Zanzibar.

Botswana Adventure

10 days from 4276.

Visit Africa and travel through Botswana, Namibia and Zimbabwe on a tour from Windhoek...

Namibia Discovery

13 days from 3623.

Travel from Cape Town in South Africa to Namibia’s Windhoek through coastlines, sand...

Amazing Southern Africa

22 days from 8556.

Jump onboard an exhilarating journey from Cape Town to Victoria Falls through the...

Vic Falls to Cape Town

22 days from 2595.

Discover the unique and contrasting lands of Zimbabwe, Botswana, Namibia and South...

Remarkable Rwanda & Gorillas of Uganda

9 days from 4429.

Travel through Rwanda and Uganda in search of natural beauty and the gentle mountain...

Garden Route Adventure

14 days from 1664.

See Africa from Durban to Cape Town on a 14-day adventure. Tour Tsitsikamma, Addo...

Best of East Africa

20 days from 3983.

Step out onto the Serengeti and keep your eyes out for rhinos, lions, leopards and a...

Cape Town to Zanzibar

41 days from 5785.

See Africa on this incredible overland adventure from South Africa to Tanzania. Soak up...

Serengeti & Kilimanjaro

15 days from 6084.

Explore the wonders of Tanzania and Kenya, including a trek to the summit of Mt...

Okavango & Beyond

9 days from 2545.

Travel from Zimbabwe to South Africa via Botswana. The Okavango and Beyond trip is the...

Vic Falls to Stone Town

17 days from 2295.

See East Africa in 17 days including Victoria Falls, Matobo, South Luwanga, Lake Malawi...

Southern Africa Adventure

30 days from 4800.

Take a month long southern African adventure from Cape Town into Namibia, Botswana and...

Essential East Africa

10 days from 2105.

Hit the (dirt) road through Kenya and Tanzania. Safari in the Serengeti, Ngorongoro...

Africa Encompassed Northbound

64 days from 12940.

This epic journey with explores Southern Africa in detail including Botswana, Kenya,...

Johannesburg to Kenya

37 days from 7045.

Travel the waterways of Botswana, the beaches of Zanzibar and the savannahs of the...

Cape Town to Kenya

49 days from 8230.

Experience the ultimate African adventure on this epic trip including Kenya, Botswana,...

Kruger & Coast

9 days from 1365.

Explore diverse southern Africa on this nine-day adventure, including Kruger National...

Gorillas to Vic Falls

42 days from 9730.

Explore Kenya, Malawi, Tanzania, Zambia and Zimbabwe on this epic trip that included a...

Safari to Kilimanjaro - Machame Route

16 days from 7205.

Explore the wonders of Tanzania and Kenya including a trek to the summit of Mt...

Africa Encompassed Southbound

63 days from 12860.

Set out on a mighty African adventure through Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Malawi, Zimbabwe...

Vic Falls to Kenya

28 days from 5027.

Discover East African wilderness and the animals that call it home on an adventure...

Zanzibar to Cape Town

40 days from 4860.

Explore Africa on an epic wildlife-rich adventure from Tanzania to South Africa while...

Kenya to Cape Town

48 days from 7187.

Tour Africa's best from Kenya to Cape Town through Tanzania, Zanzibar, Malawi, Zimbabwe...

Stone Town to Nairobi

9 days from 2138.

Explore Tanzania on this trip travelling to Nairobi via the Serengeti and the Usambara...

Stone Town to Vic Falls

16 days from 2096.

Track rhinos on foot and embrace the sights and sounds of Eastern Africa on this unique...

Johannesburg to Gorillas

52 days from 11780.

Experience the waterways of Botswana, the beaches of Zanzibar, the savannahs of the...

Kenya to Vic Falls

27 days from 4722.

Explore the wilds of East Africa on a trip from Nairobi to the Serengeti, Usambara...

Kilimanjaro & Serengeti Adventure

15 days from 6494, beaches, game parks & gorillas, 27 days from 7325.

Spend 27 days exploring the wonders, wildlife and tribal cultures of East Africa to...

Zanzibar to Vic Falls

19 days from 2470.

Explore East Africa from Zanzibar's beaches to the roar of Victoria Falls, seeing...

Johannesburg to Zanzibar

29 days from 4785.

From Johannesburg to Botswana, Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Lake Malawi and...

Zanzibar to Nairobi

12 days from 2508.

Get a true taste of eastern Africa on a 12-day trip to Zanzibar, the Serengeti,...

Vic Falls to Zanzibar

20 days from 2696.

Travel from the thundering Victoria Falls to the spice plantations of Zanzibar via...

Vic Falls to Gorillas

43 days from 9655.

Take an epic trip through eastern Africa, via Victoria Falls, the Serengeti and...

Africa safari h ighlights

Spot the Big 5 in South Africa

Go on safari through Kruger National Park, one of the largest game reserves in Southern Africa . This massive park is one of the premier safari spots in all of Africa and for good reason; it’s home to over 500 bird species, 100 species of reptile and 150 mammal species, including the Big Five and the endangered African wild dog.

Go gorilla trekking in Uganda

Venture deep into the steamy jungles of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest in search of the rare mountain gorilla. With a local guide to lead you, you’ll trek into the forest to spend one unforgettable hour watching and hanging out with a family of gorillas. A close encounter with these gentle giants is an extraordinary African experience that will always stay with you.

Float over the Serengeti

The only thing more magical than witnessing the great wildebeest migration across the Serengeti? Seeing it from the sky in a hot air balloon. As the herds of wildebeest and thousands of other animals travel from Serengeti National Park to the greener pastures of the Masai Mara National Reserve, you can watch their journey and enjoy incredible views from a unique perspective.

Canoe in the Okavango Delta

The Okavango Delta has a unique system of waterways that are home to an immense array of wildlife. The best way to explore it is in a mokoro, a traditional dugout canoe. Visit in May to September, when animals are confined to small islands created by the annual flood, making it easy to spot great herds of elephant and antelope, hippos, crocodiles, lions, cheetahs and more. 

Popular safari destinations

Kruger National Park

Serengeti National Park

The Okavango Delta

Region comparisons

Chobe or Okavango?

Serengeti or Masai Mara?

View our range of gorilla treks

Where we stay on safari.

On our safari trips you’ll stay in billion-star accommodation. That’s our way of saying you’re sleeping under the night sky, camping in the great outdoors. On our Basix and sections of Original trips, you’ll stay in two-person canvas tents that our crew will help you set up. And on our Comfort trips, you’ll be staying in permanent tented camps and lodges (think glamping instead of camping).

Campsite facilities can sometimes be basic, but wherever possible, we make sure there are Western-style toilets and warm water available. But you’ll find it’s worth sacrificing a warm shower or two when you’re waking up to sunrise over the Masai Mara.

How we get around

On our safari trips, your main mode of transport is an overland truck, a purpose-built vehicle made for driving through Africa’s winding, and sometimes bumpy, country roads. While the trucks don’t have air conditioning, they do have sliding windows which let in the breeze and make it even easier to take spectacular snaps of the local wildlife. The trucks are also equipped with power outlets to charge your camera, phone and other devices on the go.

For more info on our overland trucks, see our Africa overland page .

African Safari FAQs

When is the best time to go on safari.

Generally speaking, January, February and June to October are the best times to go on safari in Africa. This is the dry season, so animals tend to come out into more open spaces in search of water, making them easier to spot. However, you’ll be able to spot animals all year round and you’ll enjoy fewer crowds if you travel outside peak season.

Read more about the best time to go on safari .

Where is the best place to go on safari?

The best place to go on safari depends on what kind of animals you’d like to see and what other activities you’d like to do in destination. We offer safaris to some of the best safari destinations in eastern and southern Africa, like Kenya, Tanzania, South Africa, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Namibia and more.

Read more about how to choose your ideal African safari . 

Am I guaranteed to see animals on safari?

While we can’t guarantee you’ll spot the Big 5, you’d have to be profoundly unlucky to see no animals at all. On our trips, you’ll explore some of the best game parks and national reserves in the world. These protected areas are filled with a huge variety of different species and your expert driver and local leader will help you spot animals.

What are the “Big 5”?

The “Big 5” used to refer to the five big game animals that were the most difficult to hunt. Now that most shooting is done on a camera, the Big 5 are the most exciting animals to spot while on safari: the lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant, and Cape buffalo.

What should I pack for safari?

Loose, light clothing in neutral colours is the best attire for a safari (dark colours will get hot in the sun and can attract the Tsetse fly). You’ll also want a sun hat, some good walking shoes, a camera, sunscreen and bug spray. For more details, check out our ultimate Africa packing guide . 

What type of food will be served on safari?

On our Basix trips you’ll have a cook travelling with you while you are on safari who will whip up a variety of local flavours and Western-style dishes. Along your route, your cook will stop to purchase fresh, locally sourced food for your meals. You can expect a variety of things for breakfast like fruit, eggs, toast and cereal; lunch is often sandwiches and salads; and dinner is usually a hearty meal like pasta, curry or a BBQ.

On our Original and Comfort trips there will be more meals at camps and lodges along the way. No matter what you’re craving, you definitely will not be going hungry on safari.

What are the toilets and showers like on safari?

Most of the permanent tented camps will have a private bathroom with flushing toilets and showers with warm water. 

Many of the campsites we stay at have communal facilities with flushing toilets and showers with warm water. However, in some of the more remote areas, there may only be basic facilities (toilets and cold running water). 

Can you accommodate accessibility requirements on your safari tours?

We are committed to making travel accessible to everyone, so we will work with you to assess whether you will be able to complete an existing itinerary, or whether we will be able to make reasonable adjustments to meet your needs before you book. Please see our accessible travel page for more information. 

What is internet and phone access like on safari?

Some of our hotels and campsites will have Wi-Fi, however Internet and phone access may be limited in more remote areas. But you won’t miss it when you’re watching a pride of lions prowl through long grass or enjoying a drink around the campfire with your group. 

Responsible travel

Our stance on Animal Welfare

This world and the animals that call it home are precious, and we believe it’s our responsibility to help preserve them. We do not include or condone any activities that exploit animals on our safari trips, including hunting, feeding or interacting with animals in any way. We believe that wild animals should be observed in the wild, from a respectful distance. 

Some tips for being a wildlife-friendly traveller include never buying animal products, not participating in activities that include contact with the animals, and not including location tags on social media posts (some poachers have gone high-tech and use social media to track rare animals’ locations).

Read more about our Animal Welfare Policy here . 

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• World's Best

The Top 10 African Safari Tours in 2021

Scott Bay is a magazine editor specializing in travel, architecture, and gear. He was previously an assistant editor at Travel + Leisure . His work has also appeared in Wired , Architectural Digest , Wallpaper , Robb Report , Saveur , Daily Beast , and more.

This year's World's Best Awards survey was open for voting January 11 through May 10, 2021, as destinations around the world were lifting COVID-19 restrictions. Survey rules have always allowed readers to reflect on their travel experiences over a three-year period. We hope that this year's honorees will inspire your own travels as you get back out into the world.

A safari tops most of Travel + Leisure readers' bucket lists — a trip that many spend a lifetime daydreaming about , saving for, and eventually splurging on. On this type of adventure, travelers pull out all of the stops and have high expectations. One of the best ways to have that dream trip live up to expectations is to hire one of the best safari outfitters, as voted by the discerning readers of T+L.

Every year for our World's Best Awards survey , T+L asks readers to weigh in on travel experiences around the globe — to share their opinions on the top hotels, resorts, cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. Readers rated tour operators and safari outfitters based on their staff and guides, itineraries and destinations, activities, accommodations, food, and overall value.

The safari companies favored by T+L readers owe much of their success to the talented advisors, who get to know their clients so they can create truly customized trips. "We couldn't have worked with a better group of people," one reader said of No. 5 winner Travel Beyond. "They were friendly, efficient, informative, and made sure our entire trip went smoothly. We never had a care."

Each safari outfitter also displays a deep connection to the national world and conservation efforts . Readers felt that No. 10 andBeyond particularly excelled in this area: "They have an excellent commitment to local communities, protecting wildlife and the environment." Another reader said of No. 9 Wilderness Safaris, "Their commitment to local communities and protecting wildlife is outstanding."

Read on to see the full list of T+L readers' picks for the best safari outfitters — all of which not only make spotting the Big Five easy but also arrange unparalleled perks and accommodations.

1. Micato Safaris

This company has been voted onto T+L's list of the world's best safari outfitters every year since the awards' inception — and for good reason. The family-run business has deep roots in Kenya, and its owners' love for the country (and continent) is evident in the way they operate. Each itinerary, whether private or with a group, is tailored to be the most luxurious, comfortable, and exciting adventure possible. Readers couldn't say enough kind words about their recent trips. "Never met tour guides or staff that were so friendly and knowledgeable about the animals and the locations and the culture," wrote one reader. "They seemed to have a sixth sense for anticipating our needs. It was really something." A few more touted Micato's reputation, with one saying, "Simply the best safari outfitter in Africa. Bar none."

WBA Hall of Fame honoree. Score: 98.88 More information: micato.com

2. Extraordinary Journeys

Score: 98.21 More information: extraordinaryjourneys.com

3. Dazzle Africa

Score: 98.08 More information: dazzleafrica.org

4. Thomson Safaris

Score: 97.73 More information: thomsonsafaris.com

5. Travel Beyond

Score: 96.82 More information: travelbeyond.com

6. Volcanoes Safaris

Score: 95.78 More information: volcanoessafaris.com

7. Alluring Africa

Score: 93.26 More information: alluringafrica.com

8. Rothschild Safaris

Score: 92.81 More information: rothschildsafaris.com

9. Wilderness Safaris

Score: 92.80 More information: wilderness-safaris.com

10. andBeyond

Score: 90.20 More information: andbeyond.com

See all of our readers' favorite hotels, cities, airlines, cruise lines, and more in the World's Best Awards for 2021 .

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Embark on an extraordinary journey with African Travel, where the wilderness of African safaris meets expertly curated luxury experiences. With over four decades of expertise, we meticulously select the finest accommodations and extraordinary experiences to craft unforgettable adventures tailored to your desires. Join us in uncovering the exceptional wonders of Africa on a journey that will forever etch itself into your heart and soul.

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Southern Explorer

Our most popular itinerary combining cape town, safari in greater kruger and victoria falls..

The World's Greatest Show

Explore the best of the serengeti and witness the iconic great migration..

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The ultimate luxury safari experience with botswana, victoria falls and south africa..

We're Africa enthusiasts, passionate about curating authentic adventures while championing wildlife conservation and local communities. "Our team has explored every corner of the continent, and when we say "We Know Africa", you can rely on us to craft the ideal African experience for you." - Sherwin Banda, President

Nothing compares to the magic of an African safari. It offers a rare chance to connect with nature, diverse cultures, and one another. Many describe it as life-changing. Experience the magic of the wild for yourself. Watch and discover what a day on safari looks like.

Our Differences

From a range of luxury accommodations to our VIP airport services, expert local guides, luxury amenities, exclusive private tours, and 24/7 concierge support, our tailor-made experiences deliver an elevated and worry-free journey.

Soar above the savanna on a hot air balloon, sleep under the African stars in a treehouse, learn wildlife photography, and spend a day with an anti-poaching unit. Our safari experts will guide you to discover the perfect experiences for your personalized African journey.

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Our Guests Say...

"Amazing!! Best trip I have ever taken. I was hesitant about embarking on an African Safari, as it was outside my comfort zone. Please, if you're even considering it... DO IT. African Travel selected incredible lodges, National Parks, and ensured that whatever we needed was available." - Denise E.

Crafting your dream safari experience requires meticulous planning, and we're here to make it effortless for you. Start a conversation with us and explore the possibilities.

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Luxury African Safaris

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Why Micato?

Why Safari with Micato

From our 24-hour Concierge Team to paying for a child’s education to no tipping ever, we’ve thought of every luxury.

Micato Fans

Familiar Faces on Safari

Here are just a few of the travellers who have chosen Micato for their luxury safari. We bet these faces will be familiar.

Our Guest Book

Micato Safaris Reviews

We love hearing from our travellers. And here’s a collection of 325-plus Five Star reviews our guests have been kind enough to share online.

Find Your Popcorn

One of the next best things to joining Micato on safari is perusing our treasure trove of captivating, joyful videos.

Recent Press Articles

Travel+Leisure Micato Hits #1 Historic 10th Time

Fortune For African Safari, Choose Micato

Forbes Micato Safari Is A Dream Trip

Elite Traveler Responsible Luxury Travel

The pinto family.

35 Years of Service

AmericaShare

As an African-born company we have a special responsibility to our homeland. Luckily, it’s a joyous, fruitful duty.

Private Safari Villas & Estates

Unabashedly but thoughtfully luxurious, our exclusive-use Private Villas and Estates are enchanting get-aways into Africa’s ancient calm and its unique excitements.

Micato Safaris treat their guests like well-loved, out-of-town relatives. Travel + Leisure Magazine

Our Luxury Safaris

The planet’s greatest game lands, Africa’s warmhearted people, and its mesmerizing landscapes, revealed gracefully, thoughtfully, and joyously by the world’s greatest luxury safari company.

It’s Lonely at the Top

These awards inspire us to work even harder as stewards of Micato’s esteemed reputation and of your safari. Here is a small sampling of our proudest moments.

Travel+Leisure

Unprecedented Ten-Time Winner of Travel+Leisure’s Award for #1 World’s Best Safari Outfitter

Condé Nast Traveler

Unprecedented Five-Time Winner of the Condé Nast Traveler World Savers Award for Education and for Doing It All

National Geographic

National Geographic Traveler and National Geographic Adventure Best Outfitters on Earth

Best VAST (Active) Operator, Best Escorted Tour Operator, Virtuoso Performance Award

India Journeys

Swirlingly colourful, endlessly enchanting India, in the company of a company with deep roots in “the most extraordinary country the sun visits on his rounds.”

The 2023 Micato Hot List

Very Private African Safari Retreats

A Safari Primer: Where to go, What to Expect

BESPOKE LUXURY SAFARIS SINCE 2004

Experience africa’s finest with us, the authority on luxury african travel, the world's best safari company, eyeing a tailor-made africa safari, over 150,000 delighted travellers and counting..., welcome to rhino africa.

At Rhino Africa, we're guided by our love and passion for Africa. And now, our glorious continent is more ready than ever to welcome you with open arms. As the World's Best Safari Company, our African Travel Experts can't wait to start planning your tailor-made luxury safari!

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Kruger national park, sabi sand game reserve, moremi and okavango region, victoria falls, garden route, africa is about who you know.

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Luxury safari travel to Africa that rewilds souls and enhances lives while saving wildlife and wild spaces.

Travel’s ability to transform you is as important as its power to help others – the wildlife, the local communities and the land..

ROAR AFRICA is a luxury African safari company that designs every itinerary exclusively for you, curating transformative experiences carefully chosen for their positive impact on the people, places, and wildlife of our home continent. We create a safe and comfortable space for you to reconnect with yourself and your loved ones. Through the simple and powerful act of traveling with us, you will return home a different person, knowing that you have helped support and sustain the fragile communities and extraordinary wild spaces that remain.

Experience the pristine wilderness of luxury African travel like never before with ROAR AFRICA .

We almost feel it was a dream

“We cannot put into words how fantastic our first time in South Africa and Botswana was. ROAR AFRICA’s curation, access, seamless execution and handheld service that led to us never having to worry about a thing as well as ROAR AFRICA’s guides and their entire Africa-based team made this the most amazing and outstanding trip in our lives.”

Eleven generations can't be wrong

Deborah's deep-rooted lineage goes back eleven generations to when her Huguenot ancestors first arrived on the shores of Cape Town in 1688. Africa is in her DNA. Her heritage allows for unparalleled access, incredible insights and the kind of on-the-ground knowledge only a local can have.

“If African women rise, wildlife will thrive”

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Luxury African travel that protects and preserves. We choose to partner exclusively with people and properties that echo our values.

Why we insist on responsible travel

Sustainable luxury travel in Africa. Become a custodian of the wild, directly helping to solve some of our planet's most critical social, economic and environmental problems.

We offer intimate and trusted access

Our commitment to conservation, roar africa’s upcoming and unforgettable journeys.

Explore our specialist luxury African safari experiences and see which unique trip speaks to you. To design an entirely bespoke safari experience for yourself or your family, contact one of our ultra-luxe African travel experts at  [email protected]  to help seamlessly curate your trip of a lifetime.

2024 Sold Out. 2025 Dates Available

Embark on the greatest safari on earth.

This epic journey explores four of Africa’s most iconic wildlife destinations - Zimbabwe, Botswana, Kenya and Rwanda - across 12 days in unbridled luxury aboard the Emirates Executive Private Jet. Led by ROAR AFRICA founder Deborah Calmeyer and our hand-picked guides in August 2025, there is no trip in the world like this one!

Return to the Wild with David Whyte

Taking place June 12-17, 2024, our second immersive safari retreat, co-hosted by ROAR AFRICA founder Deborah Calmeyer and world-renowned poet, philosopher, and zoologist David Whyte, returns us to the sacred foothills of Mount Kenya. This extraordinary trip is imbued with wildlife, well-being with the world’s best bodyworkers, and the wisdom of a poet who can translate the experience of finding our roots in nature into words.

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Join our women’s empowerment retreat.

Be an agent of change and forge connections with the female powerhouses at the forefront of women’s empowerment, education and entrepreneurship on ROAR AFRICA’s fifth annual Women’s Empowerment Retreat in Botswana’s Okavango Delta. Over five days, we’ll enjoy an exhilarating safari while learning from a roster of pioneering speakers at the forefront of Botswana’s mission to empower women and protect wild spaces.

Our Luxury Safari Destinations

“There is a language going on out there, the roars, snorts, trumpets, squeals, whoops and chirps that have meaning derived over eons of expression. We have yet to become fluent in the language – and music – of the wild.” - Boyd Norton

Africa luxury travel tailored to your desires. Whether you want to experience the sheer magic of a luxury safari in Kenya, track gorillas in Rwanda or immerse yourself in the rich culture and culinary excellence of South Africa, we curate extraordinary experiences in the destination of your dreams.

Every country offers unique and inspiring encounters with wildlife, nature and local culture. Explore our destinations in more detail and discover your ideal African luxury travel experience.

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Africa Adventure Consultants

Award-winning luxury african safaris.

Named by Travel + Leisure as one of the top 10 safari outfitters in the world in 2023, Africa Adventure Consultants provides the best African safari adventures for individuals, couples, families and large groups.

Ready to create the perfect once-in-a-lifetime, custom luxury African safari vacation? Our award-winning safari adventures are available throughout all of East and Southern Africa, including popular destinations such as Tanzania , Kenya , South Africa and Botswana .

Our staff of safari specialists has more than 100 combined years in the travel industry and we visit Africa regularly to ensure the quality of our African safari vacations exceed expectations. We are ready to turn your dreams into a one-of-a-kind luxury African safari vacation!

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Big 5 safaris, custom safaris, family safaris, why choose africa adventure consultants, we are a denver-based safari company with consultants who organize exclusive, custom, award-winning safari adventures throughout east and southern africa..

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African Safari Packages

Escape the every day with our vacation deals in the dusty African haze, admiring wondrous animals freely roaming in their natural habitat. Our best African safari adventure packages put you centre stage in your own Attenborough documentary.

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Best african safari tours based on 7,919 reviews.

• Christmas & New Year

Big Five Luxury Safari in Tanzania **Sustainable Approach to Travel

Our safari trip was beyond expectations, witnessing the great migration and many wonderful viewings of wildlife. Our driver and guide Issa was exceptional in his professionalism and attention to our needs, becoming a friend during our time together. The ballon ride was a wonderful experience! All contact with World Adventure Tours has been courteous, professional and timely. Thank you Joyce!

Premium Kenya & Southern Africa Highlights

• In-depth Cultural

Victoria Falls & Serengeti Overland: Lakes & Landos

Cape Town to the Serengeti: Deserts & Wilderness

Enjoyed the trip, saw lots of different animals, history and culture. Spent a lot of the time driving but the variety of game drives and optional activities created a good balance. The 2 groups I was a part of were great people and good company. The meals however were poor, felt our guide didn't try his best, majority of meals were cheap and our meal allowances were equivalent to $2-3 when given to eat on our long drives. He definitely could of done better with options especially after several comments and suggestions from our group. I didn't feel the food we got was anywhere the price I paid for the trip. Breakfasts consisted of cornflakes, weetabix, fruit and occasional yoghurt which was hidden and rationed along with museli. There were some days closer to the end where we got eggs, sausage and pancakes. Some individuals didn't even eat much overall because there wasn't much selection. Lunches consisted of processed meat sandwiches, apples and bananas for the most part. Dinners were rice, pasta, some vegetables and bread. The meat options were fine and more catered to I found. Unfortunately I felt that our guide wasn't organized with activities either, left everything to the last minute. He became more involved and active on the 2nd half of our journey with the group, for the first half he was a little reserved. Our driver was amazing and very accommodating and friendly. I would definetely do another G trip but would like to have a more outgoing and accommodating guide.

Kenya Wildlife Safari

This trip far exceeded my expectations, especially since this was my very first time going with a tour. We had an amazing group who made this experience all the more fun. Our driver, cook, and guide was so welcoming and we never once felt like we were in any kind of danger. Our guide, Martin, was always honest with us and made sure we weren't taken advantage of by local merchants. This was really a once in a lifetime experience and the people of Kenya were all wonderful, especially the local tribes who welcome us with open hands and always went out of their way to get everyone involved and taught us so much about their way of life, their culture, and traditions. The itinerary is pretty spot on and there weren't any ugly surprises, only wonderful ones. I would recommend everyone to thoroughly read through it and make sure you bring the right equipment as some people in our group were caught off guard with the storage size and night weather (their sleeping bag didn't hold up to the cold weather). We were able to see so many wild life on our trip, even driving on the highway we saw zebras just walking pass the street. Giraffes, monkeys, and hyenas (we always heard them at night) were also a regular occurrence! On our safari's we were able to see 4/5 big five (+cheetah!) and all of the ugly five. Really just an amazing experience that people of all ages can appreciate!

14-day Kruger to the Delta, Chobe & Victoria Falls (Accommodated)

Overall this tour was amazing! There are some incredible game drives and fun places to say. A few of the excursions are a bit mediocre and the days on the bus can be very long. It was 100% worth it though. I had a once in a lifetime adventure and will never forget this trip.

8 days: Best of Zambia, Botswana (Chobe) and Zimbabwe (Hwange) Wildlife Safari Tour

We enjoyed the experience. The only negative place was the lodge in Hwange, totally substandard, we were supposed to be there 2 nights but moved out after the first night. Must mention Mark, Fines, Peace and the other 2 guides that went over and above their duties to satisfy our needs.

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

12-day Delta, Chobe & Victoria Falls (Accommodated)

With much sadness we have just finished our 12 day Delta Chobe Waterways tour in South Africa, Zimbabwe and Botswana. The trip was our belated honeymoon and we couldn't have picked a better option. The places we visited and people we met were fascinating, beautiful, friendly and unforgetable. The constant throughout our trip however was our wonderful guide Simon Tawanira. From the very start he was welcoming, helpful and made the trip entirely worry-free. He generously shared so much information about the countries we visited and animals we were fortunate enough to see. We shared many stories and laughs. We will very much miss our fabulous guide and are a little concerned about how we will organise ourselves without him! This was always going to be an amazing trip but Simon made it truly memorable. Any one lucky enough to book a trip with him with have a fantastic time and learn so much. Thank you.

• Gorilla Trekking

The Absolute Safari

I did the Absolute Safari from Nairobi to Cape Town with Absolute Africa. It was a very long trip but the whole time I knew I did not want to leave. Travelling with Absolute Africa becomes like a lifestyle- you camp, cook, wash and clean as a team. I was fortunate because I was with a great bunch of people and a very helpful and kind tour guide. I really enjoyed my trip with Absolute. I would not recommend Absolute Africa if you are looking for comfortable and easy travelling as there are some challenging days. My highlights on the trip were, in no particular order, the Serengeti, Lake Malawi, Zanzibar, Ngorogoro Crater, Matobo National Park, Vic Falls and the Deadvlei. I can also honestly say that the people on my trip and my tour guide were a highlight too. I will never forget my experiences in Africa, and it was difficult for me to leave. I would recommend Absolute Africa for budget travellers and I would highly recommend Manache Nicklaa as a tour guide. Manache was always very professional and friendly. He will talk to anyone and he always did his best to help anyone who needed it. Manache has a very friendly persona and you can have a laugh with him too. He is very warm and just makes you feel safe and welcome!

Premium East Africa in Depth

East Africa Safari & Coast

Excellent tour! Thank you Zach and crew for taking care of us! Will cherish this trip for years to come!

Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Tarangire (with Materuni waterfalls, coffee tour) - 6 Days

Highly professional all around We travelled as a couple with Serengeti African Tours and received excellent service from start to end. We did a 7 day safari plus Zanzibar as an add on. With an extremely professional and skilled guide, a highly organised booking team and an amazing selection of lodges/tented camps to stay in we had an all around amazing trip. The quality of the food, the staff and the accommodation was 5 star all around. Would highly recommend anyone to do a private safari with this company, you will be looked after from start to end. The small extras including asking what kind of drinks we would like in the vehicle and the gift of a wine for a special celebration was also a really lovely touch. Great value for money with the amount of food, the private tour and types of accommodation. Luxury and mid range available

Independent South Africa, Zimbabwe & Botswana

6 Days Kenya Budget Tours (with FREE NIGHT at Nairobi Hotel)

Very well managed and laid out tour. Saw many animal up close and all of the Big 5. Guides were spectacular as well. Food was topical and variety was present. Weather was great.

10 Days Uganda's Gorillas Encounter, Wildlife & Kigali City Tour ( Private tour)

We had the time of our lives! Everything was perfect organized. Many thanks to Mukisa Safaris!

African Safari Tour Reviews

Our guide Muddy was excellent. He knew where to find his animals and he was patient and accommodating. Thank you Muddy for an amazing safari experience. The safari lodge was great but the hotels were average. Knowing that we cannot drink out of the tap, I don't appreciate having to pay extra for drinking water at the hotels. Food was one item that they can improve on, especially the boxed lunch. The overall experience was great....we saw all of the big 5 plus more. I would recommend this tour....just be realistic with the accommodations and the food.

Everything was Amazing

A bit late with the review... The trip was November 2019 and it was the best trip ever!!! Simon best guide, stunning places, welcoming locals and amazing experiences! the flight over the Okavango Delta is highly recommended.

Safari Tours

• Wildlife (852)
• Big Five (298)
• Gorilla Trekking (145)
• Great Migration (138)
• Flying Safari (11)
• Elephant (5)

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Featuring Great Plains Conservation

Visit Dereck & Beverly Joubert’s stunning safari camps and conservation initiatives.

Featuring African Bush Camps

Learn more about our partner, African Bush Camps in Botswana, Zambia and Zimbabwe

African Safari Inspired by You

Handcrafted, luxury Africa vacations. Inspired by you, designed by our experts.

Discover the ultimate trip to Africa…

…inspired by you and designed by our team of passionate luxury safari experts . We delight in sharing our love of Africa through perfectly tailored, transformative journeys to earth’s purest, wildest, and most spectacular destinations.

Our Africa safari vacations are all about discovery. Before we can help you discover Africa, we must discover you —your personality, your passions, your inspiration. Then, through our firsthand knowledge of Africa’s hidden gems and close relationships with our partners on the ground, we’ll arrange your life-changing safari experience.

The result? A trip to Africa that fits perfectly with your idea of comfort, luxury, and adventure—plus some unique surprises that will make you fall head-over-heels in love with this incredible part of the world.

Looking for a private experience in Africa ? We have cultivated this list of off the beaten path experiences you and your partner or family can enjoy in Africa. From private safari adventures to private houses, let the experts at Africa Endeavours find the once-in-a-lifetime vacation for you.

What type of experience are you interested in?

Africa Cruises

Family Travel

Food and Wine

Romantic Getaways

Islands and Beaches

Gorilla Trekking Africa

Great Migration Safari

Safaris in Africa

A Team of Travel Experts

Our team consists of experienced travel experts who are passionate about good, old-fashioned service and about exploring the world’s exotic destinations. We travel overseas every year to ensure you have the most up-to-date and unbiased information.

Featured Trips

Africa Family Vacations: Namibia Highlights Package

Tour Namibia’s top attractions with a private guide. Explore ancient deserts and towering sand dunes; go on safari in the famous Etosha National Park; and enjoy family adventures like sandboarding, sea kayaking, and hot air ballooning!

East African Safari: Kenya and Tanzania Luxury Tour

This luxurious Great Migration safari takes you to the top highlights and hidden gems of Kenya and Tanzania. Enjoy unbelievable wildlife sightings in the Masai Mara, Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, and beyond while staying in Africa’s best 5-star safari lodges!

Namibia Highlights Vacation

Discover the scenic highlights of Namibia on this incredible vacation! Explore red sand dunes, purple mountains, and ancient rock carvings; track cheetahs on foot and see rare desert-adapted elephants; and see an aerial view of the desert on a scenic flight.

US: 303.756.2525 | 800.405.9463 | AUS: +61.7.5455.4243

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US: 303.756.2525 | 800.405.9463 AUS: +61.7.5455.4243

With 30 years of experience in creating luxury bespoke safaris, Rothschild Safaris is the leading expert in handcrafted travel throughout Africa & beyond.

Find Your Trip of a Lifetime

Rothschild safaris – since 1998 –, celebrating 25 years of luxury safaris.

Our decades of personal experience, valuable local insights, and the comfort of knowing our Travel Designers are originally from Africa, bring our travelers back again and again for more custom, highly curated travel experiences. Discover for yourself. Get started planning today!

Destinations

Choose your dates, choose your travel partners, choose your comfort level. We do the rest. Let’s start planning your journey.

East & North Africa

South & central america, australia & new zealand, get in touch with us, first trip to africa, “ the safari you put together for us was magnificent, magical..

Cottars was our last camp. Upon arrival, not an animal was seen on the ride from air strip to camp. Our last day, driving back to the air strip, animals were gathered on both sides of the road as if to say goodbye. I cried. I don’t know if we’ll ever be able to return as much as I’d love to, but how overwhelmingly grateful I am to know the feeling of being so affected, so privileged to have been in their midst. Looking out over that vast savannah day after day, I have never felt such serenity and peace.”

LAURIE KNIGHTS DANKO

Still in shock and awe regarding our experience.

Wow, wow, wow!! We are back in LA now, recovering from jet lag and still in shock and awe regarding our experience. From the moment we landed in South Africa to the moment we touched down in LA, our experience was seamless and amazing. Thank you for making our journey so memorable. We are very grateful for your professionalism and perfect execution of a rather complex itinerary and are singing your praises to all of our friends!!

AMY LUNDBERG

Rothschild listened ….really listened to what we wanted to experience..

Choosing a safari expert is never easy given the choice and lists upon lists of “top suppliers”….but we made the BEST choice for us….why….because above all, Rothschild listened ….really listened to what we wanted to experience. This was a trip for four great friends gathering in Tanzania from all over the world and we loved every minute….

DAWN JACOBS

The whole team was remarkable for their prompt and friendly responses..

It was the most exciting, scenic, inspiring trip we’ve ever taken. To say it was a trip of a lifetime doesn’t begin to capture our experience. Pam Langhoff and the Rothschild team did an outstanding job of helping us plan this trip. Pam really listened to our concerns and opinions and was so helpful as we sorted out what sort of experience we were seeking. She had endless patience for our constant emails and frequent phone calls. Not a hitch anywhere along the way! 

Mary & Rob Johannigman (and family)

Traveling to Africa for the first time, researching where you want to go and what you want to do can be a daunting task.

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VENUE PROFILE Ol Jogi, Kenya

There are many properties throughout Africa that have utilized tourism to support conservation initiatives, but at Ol Jogi, the protection of land and wildlife has always been the primary goal.

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Pam Langhoff

Viji Krishna

Nicky Stroebel

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Meaghan Richards

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Kendall Winer

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Aimee Olson

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Meet our award-winning team of consultants. We know finding experienced experts is not an easy task. So, congratulations on finding us! Be it via searching the web, a referral or your local travel agent, we have no doubt you will find us the most knowledgeable in the travel industry. Born and bred in South Africa, as most of us are, you will gain from our local insider experiences, little tips and first hand guidance.

Call us with any questions: US: 303.756.2525 | 800.405.9463 AUS: +61.7.5455.4243

Africa is Waiting…

At Ubuntu Travel, we care about your whole journey. From the moment you speak to our Travel Specialists to your return back home, we are dedicated to making every detail of your safari in Africa absolutely flawless. 

We focus on combining breathtaking wildlife experiences with luxury accommodations, exclusive tours and authentic interactions that will compliment your interests, creating unforgettable and treasured memories. 

Through conservation and social development initiatives, your uniquely designed luxury safari will help to positively impact the destinations you visit; both for the wildlife and the local communities who live in and around these last remaining wilderness areas.

If you’re planning your first visit to Africa, or your fifth, we’ll create the trip of a lifetime for you and your loved ones. Allow us to dream up your next adventure, so you may find yourself surrounded by the splendor of Africa in the months to come.

Why Ubuntu Travel?

Bespoke Itineraries

We design adventures from the ground up around your goals and needs so you can experience Africa just as you’ve always dreamed.

Unique Experiences

With deep roots in Africa, we offer exclusive, unique opportunities to get involved with conservation efforts and immerse yourself within unfamiliar cultures.

Responsible Travel

We partner with local communities throughout Africa to take every measure necessary to ensure we affect positive change and enrich lives throughout every journey.

Destinations to Explore

South Africa

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Testimonials

Leah worked with us for over a month building the perfect 2 week honeymoon for us. She helped us decide on what area/countries of Africa were best for what we were looking for. Then, based on our budget, wish list of activities, and dates she gave us options on accommodations, schedules and activities and constantly reworked the itinerary until we were ecstatic about it. They respond very quickly to any email, call or whatsapp and were always there to answer our questions. They helped us with travel documents, covid tests, and airline flights. They even sent us Ubuntu Travel luggage that was perfect for the bush planes luggage requirements. Once we were in Africa, we never worried about anything at all - there was always a private car transfer, private guide, or someone to escort us. We were pampered and surprised with romantic dinners and champagne three times ! We were SO impressed and happy with everything they booked for us, and the entire process was COMPLETELY stress free. The trip was the trip of a lifetime - all thanks to Ubuntu ! We’ve already recommended them to so many of our friends !  

Thank you to the entire team at Ubuntu Travel for listening to our desires, asking questions and then curating the perfect trip to Africa! If you are looking for a team to help you make your African dream trip come true, I highly recommend Ubuntu Travel! They were very easy to work with, detail oriented, communicative and professional. My husband and I had dreamt of taking our 3 adult children to Africa and Ubuntu Travel made this dream happen, even with COVID. Ubuntu's ability to navigate us through all the challenges/restrictions that came with COVID was above and beyond. We could not have done this on our own. Africa is a magical place and the Ubuntu's teams personal love for the Bush and extensive knowledge of Africa made our trip especially memorable. I highly suggest you trust them and let them do the planning you won't be disappointed. Don't wait book your safari now, Africa is incredibly special. Many thanks to the Ubuntu Travel team until we meet again!

I cannot recommend Ubuntu Travel enough! My husband and I used them to plan our honeymoon November 2021 and thought it was the best decision we made for our travels. Ubuntu was perfect for us because they made planning extremely easy and had excellent customer service. We had never traveled to Africa before and were planning our honeymoon during COVID so it is easy to get overwhelmed with all the travel requirements and options available. Ubuntu Travel curated the perfect itinerary for us based on our preferences over a few meetings and were always available for any questions we had. They also handled all of our transportation, activities, and COVID tests when we arrived in Africa which was very convenient. During the honeymoon they went above and beyond to check in on us to make sure all of our travels were running smoothly. The only thing we had to worry about was booking our flights there and back home! Thanks to Ubuntu Travel we had the honeymoon of our dreams and cannot wait to visit Africa again (and would 100% book through Ubuntu Travel again!).

We had the most incredible trip to Kenya that was organized by Kyle and Jenna at Ubuntu Travel. Everything from beginning to end was seamless. We started off our trip at Giraffe Manor which had been on our bucket list forever and it totally lived up to expectations. The accommodation, food and service were impeccable. The experience with the giraffes was incredible. My adult kids cannot stop talking about how special that experience was. We then moved on to the Masai Mara where we spent two days at Sanctuary Olanana and three days at andbeyond Bateleur. Both camps in every way were amazing. Traveling during COVID could be challenging but Ubuntu Travel were so thorough in their planning that our trip went off without a hitch. I would highly recommend Ubuntu Travel for travel to Africa, and am so thankful that I used them to create for my family and I a Dream vacation.

"This was a dream vacation the lodges were beautiful the food fabulous people amazing animals fantastic everything was perfect from start to finish arrangements from start to finish were impeccable."

Plan a Trip

Reach out and let’s start talking. We’ll listen and begin to tailor an experiential, private, luxury vacation based on exactly how you want to experience Africa. From adventure to relaxation—and everything in between—let us handle every detail of your unforgettable journey.

What does a safari agency do?

We customize journeys for individuals and groups of all sizes, specializing in luxury safaris in Southern and East Africa. We work closely with our clients to design itineraries that fit their specific travel goals with the sole focus of delivering bucket list adventures and experiences.

How far in advance should I book a safari?

We recommend booking travel anywhere from six months to a year in advance, to be sure that you are able to secure your preferred accommodations and travel routes, as most lodges have limited accommodations and rooms fill up well in advance. If you are sure of your future travel plans, we can book over a year in advance, however, your international flights will need to be booked at a separate time, as those schedules are only released 11 months in advance. That being said, we are also able to book last minute travel, pending flight and lodge availability, and have done so on many occasions.

How safe is a safari?

Very safe! Safari guides and staff are highly trained to keep guests safe during their safari experiences. Understanding and recognizing animal behaviors is a key part of ranger training, teaching guides to respect the space of wild animals and provide a safe environment for both the guests and the wildlife.

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Luxury Africa Safaris made for you

Explore one of the oldest and largest deserts

Cruise the incredible Okavango Delta

Trek into the forest to meet mountain gorillas

Tanzania and Kenya

See the Great Wildebeest Migration

Marvel at the majestic Victoria Falls

South Africa

Drink in great views and great wines

Set off on a private safari with the experts

Jacada specialises in crafting bespoke luxury safaris to Africa. Our experts have decades of combined experience, and have all lived and travelled extensively across the continent. We’ve tracked chimps in Mahale Mountains National Park, spent months following the Great Migration, stayed at the most incredible camps, sipped South Africa’s finest Chenin Blanc and summited Mount Kenya (almost more times than we can count). We’re on the ground regularly to visit new properties, review exclusive activities and follow meaningful conservation initiatives.

Our experience allows us to design an itinerary that’s perfect for you, combining the best places to stay with tours led by the most knowledgeable and engaging local guides.

No two journeys planned with Jacada are alike. Set off on an African safari in Botswana , Kenya , South Africa , Rwanda , Tanzania , Namibia , Mozambique , Uganda , Zambia or Zimbabwe , head for the white-sand beaches and dive sites of Mauritius , the Seychelles and Zanzibar , or combine ancient medinas with rugged mountains in Morocco .

Whatever you want your trip to include, we’ll create a bespoke journey just for you. We look after all the details so you can enjoy the wildlife, landscapes and warm authenticity of Africa in the knowledge that everything else is being taken care of. We’ll recommend the best lodges, camps and hotels, organise private tours and experiences, and arrange local guides who share your passions and interests.

As well as benefiting from the expertise of our travel designers, you’ll have the support of a personal concierge based in Africa. They’re on hand to share true local insight and help you with everything from deciding what to pack to making restaurant reservations.

Follow the majestic Great Migration and its dramatic river crossings in Kenya or Tanzania by staying at a mobile camp.

Visit the colossal Victoria Falls straddling the border between Zimbabwe and Zambia .

Go on a water safari in Botswana’ s incredible Okavango Delta.

Encounter mountain gorillas in Rwanda’ s Volcanoes National Park

Tour the historic wine estates of South Africa

Watch the sunrise from the summit of the dunes of Sossusvlei in Nambia

Explore Morocco’ s great Sahara , the world’s largest hot desert

Jody van Merode

Travel Designer

For centuries, Africa has attracted travellers from around the world. Yet to this day, the continent still holds areas that are rarely visited. We are proud to curate the most unforgettable experiences, know the most knowledgeable guides and support wide-reaching conservation projects. From the dramatic landscapes of Namibia, to rarely visited regions of Rwanda and the Eden of Africa, the Okavango Delta in Botswana, we specialise in arranging adventures that are simply one of a kind.

Luxury accommodation in Africa

Mombo Concession - Okavango

Mara Conservancies

Volcanoes National Park

Serengeti National Park

Victoria Falls

Trip inspiration

15 Day trip

11 Day trip

10 Day trip

Whatever you want from your African adventure, our team of expert travel designers are ready to help.

Where to go

Botswana is one of the best African safari destinations for adventure travellers. The landlocked country offers endless opportunities to experience wildlife like never before. You can go on a mobile safari expedition and discover the most untouched parts of Botswana as you follow the game. You can also take a helicopter ride and marvel at the beauty of the Okavango Delta from above.

Zimbabwe enthrals with incredible safari experiences. Hwange National Park is one of the best places in the world for viewing large herds of elephant while Zimbabwe’s Mana Pools is a UNESCO-protected national park filled with wildlife, including some of the best predator-spotting opportunities.

Rwanda is among Africa’s most magical destinations – and one of the few places in the world where you can encounter mountain gorillas. These giant primates can be found in Volcanoes National Park. In Akagera National Park you can see lions, leopards, giraffes and more.

One of Africa’s best known safari destinations, Tanzania is filled with a breathtaking array of wildlife across its multiple natural reserves such as Singita Grumeti. The East African country also offers unparalleled wildlife experiences in Serengeti National Park during the Great Migration.

South Africa is home to one of the oldest and most impressive national parks in the world. Kruger National Park is where you can spot the Big Five and many other species of African wildlife. South Africa is also one of the best safari destinations for families and first-timers.

A gateway to Africa, Morocco offers a myriad of unforgettable travel experiences. Set off on adventures of all kinds exploring vibrant medinas in Fes, buzzing bazaars in Marrakesh, breathtaking mountains in the High Atlas and the awe-inspiring desert landscapes of the Sahara.

Namibia is filled with innumerable sights. Its otherworldly landscapes consist of sweeping dunes, dramatic views and unspoiled nature. Home to a rich population of cheetahs, Namibia offers matchless wildlife viewing. It is also a destination that is great to visit all year round.

Kenya is one of the best safari destinations in the world. It is home to the world-renowned Maasai Mara National Park where the Big Five and other animal species roam freely. It’s also where you can see the magnificent Great Migration and its dramatic river crossings.

The diverse African nation of Zambia is home to the powerful Zambezi River and Victoria Falls. Take a helicopter ride above the waterfall or opt for an adventurous dip into the Devil’s Pool. Zambia also offers incredible safari experiences. Kafue National Park, one of the biggest in the world, offers remarkable game viewing opportunities, with big concentrations of predators and other wildlife species.

Uganda is made up of dense forests, pristine landscapes and abundant wildlife. Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is where you can get up close to endangered mountain gorillas, and in Queen Elizabeth National Park you can spot tree-climbing lions. Uganda hosts the highest concentration of primates on Earth.

Known for wide, long stretches of coastline, Mozambique is nothing short of mesmerising. It offers turquoise waters abounding in sea life and a fascinating mix of cultures. Mozambique has a more authentic feel than many other Indian ocean retreats, with a more relaxed, uncomplicated luxury and authentic experience than one finds elsewhere.

With everything from white-sand beaches to epic waterfalls and hiking trails, Mauritius is a destination that keeps on giving. It is also an island brimming with a medley of culture. Delve into the country’s history and local traditions, discover the diverse cuisines and explore its laid back coastal villages.

The Seychelles

There is no beach destination more pristine than the Seychelles; the ultimate island escape or an idyllic finale to your safari. This nation archipelago of 115 islands has five marine national parks, abundant biodiversity in its land and marine wildlife, spectacular coral reefs for diving and snorkelling, and is one of the world leaders in sustainable tourism matched with unparalleled glamour and luxury.

The African island of Zanzibar, paired with its Arabian history, makes for an excellent safari add-on. With intriguing architecture evident in the main town, Stone Town, you will be able to experience a mix of culture and landscape with pristine beaches and crystal clear waters.

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12 Top African Safari Tours

Cross this must-do activity off your bucket list.

Courtesy of Micato Safaris

Spot the big five on your safari adventure.

Safari tours in Africa are just as diverse as the continent itself, though these types of trips typically require a large sum of money. Whether you want to spend a few days gorilla trekking in Uganda or a couple weeks spotting the "big five" – lions, leopards, African elephants, rhinos and Cape buffalos – in South Africa, you'll find an array of tours to best suit your needs. To help you narrow down your options, U.S. News compiled a list of 12 can't-miss African safari tours. Read on to find your once-in-a-lifetime trip.

Note: Some of the African countries in this article may require travelers to get an entry visa and certain vaccinations in order to visit. Jump to the list of visa and vaccination requirements by country at the bottom of this page for more information.

&Beyond

Courtesy of &Beyond

Visitors who don't want to sacrifice creature comforts while on safari will appreciate &Beyond's offerings. During the tour operator's 10-day Kings of the Jungle safari – which starts at $11,340 per person – travelers will see breathtaking natural wonders like the Ngorongoro Crater and the Maasai Mara savanna. But the highlight of this journey is its four-night stay at Tanzania's Serengeti National Park . After watching animals like wildebeest and zebras partake in the great migration while also spotting lions, giraffes and more, vacationers retreat to high-end tents and lodges with private bathrooms.

[See more of Serengeti National Park: Things to Do | Hotels | When to Visit | Photos ]

Wilderness Safaris

Courtesy of Wilderness Safaris

For some of Africa's most jaw-dropping scenery, opt for the seven-night Namibian Adventure Safari tour offered by Wilderness Safaris. This weeklong trip features visits to the Namib Desert's dune-filled Sossusvlei region (which you may recognize from the film "Mad Max: Fury Road") and the mountainous Palmwag Concession – a protected area with springboks, giraffes, black rhinos and more. The package's per person fee starts at $6,725, which covers most meals, park entrance fees, and transfers from Namibia's capital Windhoek and between the safari destinations. It also covers your stay at properties like the fully solar-powered Hoanib Skeleton Coast Camp and the five-star Little Kulala lodge amid the stunning desert.

Wild Rwanda Safaris

Courtesy of Wild Rwanda Safaris)

Adventurous travelers sticking to a more conservative budget should consider Wild Rwanda Safaris' Bwindi Gorilla Safari. The three-day package features a full day in southwestern Uganda's Bwindi Impenetrable National Park (a haven for silverback gorillas) and an adjacent Batwa Pygmy community. Wild Rwanda Safaris allows guests to choose between midrange, luxury and super luxury accommodation, which can help keep costs down if necessary. The company's packages include the $700 permit required to visit the gorilla park. The round-trip journey by safari vehicle to and from Kigali, Rwanda, and English-speaking guide services are also covered in all rates. The tour can begin from Kampala, Uganda, as well, although you'll spend longer on the road to the park.

Nomad Tanzania

Courtesy of nomad-tanzania.com

Sign up for Nomad Tanzania's Southern Tanzania safari and you're bound to get an up-close look at Tanzania's diverse wildlife. Offering eight days of activities, including game drives and boat trips in Ruaha National Park and Nyerere National Park, this safari gives you prime opportunities to spot lions, cheetahs, leopards and elephants, among other species. What's more, lodging at the company's campsites, select meals, and flights to and from Dar es Salaam are factored into the package's prices. Expect to pay a minimum of $5,700 per person; prices vary depending on the time of year, and the tour isn't offered in April and May.

Micato Safaris

If you want to explore multiple destinations while on safari with plenty of comfort (but a price tag to match), book the 15-day Micato Grand Safari. This outing by Micato Safaris starts with a two-day visit to Nairobi, Kenya, before continuing to the Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, Maasai Mara National Reserve, and the Amboseli and Serengeti national parks for wildlife-viewing excursions. During your trip, you'll see Mount Kilimanjaro as zebras, gazelles and more roam in the foreground. The package costs at least $22,450 per person (based on double occupancy rates) and includes a hot air balloon ride, a camel tour led by members of the Samburu tribe, and lodging at upscale properties like Serengeti's Four Seasons outpost. The company also offers various extensions allowing you to explore other parts of Africa, from the island paradise of Zanzibar to the deserts of Namibia.

Rothschild Safaris

Courtesy of Rothschild Safaris

If your ideal safari vacation consists of customizing your trip from start to finish, consider an outing with Rothschild Safaris. The company offers itineraries in locales like Zambia and Madagascar , but if you're hoping to catch a glimpse of the big five animals, the Essence of Tanzania safari is a good bet. This nine-day experience, which embarks from Arusha and returns there by plane, includes game-viewing drives in Tarangire National Park and accommodations like canvas tents and farmhouse lodges. Elephants, zebras and lions are just some of the animals you may spot during your journey. You'll also have the opportunity to go on a nighttime safari to spot nocturnal wildlife.

Lion World Travel

Courtesy of Lion World Travel

As the trip name implies, Lion World Travel's 10-day Best of Cape Town & Botswana vacation package combines sightseeing in Cape Town, South Africa , with a classic safari in Botswana. During the latter half of the itinerary, visitors will explore Botswana's Okavango Delta (home to cheetahs, crocodiles, hippos and more) and Chobe National Park, which is believed to have Africa's largest elephant population. Prices start at $4,299 per person and cover game drives; many of your meals; and stays at luxury hotels, camps and lodges. You'll need to pay an extra charge for the flights within the tour (Cape Town to Botswana as well as Botswana to Johannesburg ).

[See more of Cape Town: Things to Do | Hotels | When to Visit | Photos ]

Bearded Heron Safaris

Neil Heron | Courtesy of Bearded Heron Safaris

Travelers keen on seeing South Africa's Kruger National Park through the eyes of a local naturalist will appreciate the 15-day safari with Bearded Heron Safaris. Led by Neil Heron, a nature guide and wildlife photographer and writer, Bearded Heron Safaris' longest option features small game drives that may include lion, rhino, zebra and leopard sightings throughout all corners of Kruger. Rates are inclusive of in-park cottage accommodations and all breakfasts, dinners, snacks and drinks. Flights and park fees are not included. For a 15-day safari, expect to pay 76,900 South African rand (about $4,500) per person.

[See more of Kruger National Park: Things to Do | Hotels | When to Visit | Photos ]

Discover Africa

Getty Images

For an inside-out trip through the natural wonders of Botswana, Discover Africa's nine-day Epic Botswana Adventure is a formidable option. You'll start out at a riverside lodge on the Chobe River – a great location for elephant spotting – before moving onto the marshy Okavango Delta, a wildlife-rich area where you can spot a huge range of animals from leopards to rhinos. The safari ends at the Makgadikgadi Pans National Park, a good place to admire wildlife like zebras and buffalo on the savanna as well as salt pans from a former lake. You'll stay in upscale lodges and campsites within close reach of the wilderness. All meals and transport along the tour are included in the price tag (which starts at $4,800 per person), but international flights are excluded.

Wild Wings Safaris

If you're looking to have a broader experience that mixes in some history and beach time, consider Wild Wings Safaris' eight-day Battlefields, Bush and Beach Safari. You'll start off visiting some of South Africa's historic sites from the Boer wars, before moving on to the Phinda Private Game Reserve, which doesn't allow day visitors, so you should be able to look out for the big five without too many crowds. The tour wraps up at Thonga Beach Lodge, where you can snorkel or scuba dive near coral reefs in the Indian Ocean. As far as safaris go, this one is an affordable option, starting at about $2,795 per person with all meals included as well as a rental car; for the cheapest price, you will need to drive yourself between the destinations, but it's possible to pay an additional fee for a driver to guide you instead.

Cuckoo Safaris

This tour company kicks off its tours from the majestic Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe, with a host of safaris that range from two days to nine, across Zimbabwe, Zambia and Botswana, including some family-friendly choices. For an affordable option, there's the four-day Discover Victoria Falls, Chobe and Hwange Park safari, which will take you on two full-day tours to Chobe National Park (across the border in Botswana) and to Hwange, Zimbabwe's largest national park, where you should keep your eyes peeled for lions, elephants and more. This safari also includes a sunset cruise on the Zambezi River. The price starts at $900 per person, which includes the tours plus breakfast, lunch and lodging in Victoria Falls; travelers will need to pay for entrance fees to the parks and dinner.

Compass Odyssey

Courtesy of Compass Odyssey

Explore the savanna and deserts of southwest Africa with Compass Odyssey's eight-day Namibia Wildlife Safari. You'll visit a community-based conservation area in Damaraland – known for its desert-adapted elephants, oryx, giraffes and other wildlife – while staying in the rustic-chic Doro Nawas Camp. You'll also spend two days in Etosha National Park, seeking wildlife at the park's bustling waterholes by day and embarking on an evening game drive as well. Starting at $3,750 per person, the tour includes most meals and all park entry fees, but not flights; the company does allow the tour to be customized on request.

Vaccination and visa requirements for African countries

Some popular safari destinations may require you to have received certain vaccinations in order to enter the country as a tourist. Inoculation requirements can include vaccination against COVID-19 and yellow fever, and you'll need to get these vaccines before departing on your trip. Be sure to bring proof of vaccinations with you. If you are transiting through another country en route to your safari tour, you must check that you also meet immunization requirements for the stopover location.

Note that, outside of what's required, there are a number of other vaccinations that are recommended, so ensure you're up to date and fully protected before you travel. In addition, many safari locations are prone to malaria; you should consult with your doctor to see if you need to bring anti-malaria medication on your trip.

Safari countries have varying visa requirements for travelers from the U.S. – these are detailed below. Depending on your itinerary, you may need a single- or multiple-entry visa, and some visas require you to apply in advance of traveling and/or have a certain number of blank pages in your passport. Regardless of your destination, your passport should be valid for at least six months before you leave for your trip.

Here are the vaccine and visa requirements for major safari destinations as of November 2022:

Botswana: If you have recently visited a country where yellow fever is common, you will need to be vaccinated against this illness. This does not include the U.S. but does include a number of countries in Africa, Central and South America. Consult the World Health Organization's website for a list of countries with risk of yellow fever transmission, including Kenya and Uganda.

U.S. citizens and nationals can stay in Botswana for 90 days without a visa.

Kenya: Travelers to Kenya must have been vaccinated against COVID-19 with the last shot administered more than 14 days before arrival in the country. Unvaccinated visitors can enter with a negative PCR test, conducted no more than 72 hours before departure. Proof of COVID-19 tests or vaccines must be uploaded to an online system called Panabios. Kenya is a country where you'll be at risk of yellow fever transmission; it also requires those traveling from other places with yellow fever or cholera outbreaks to be vaccinated against these illnesses. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that you protect yourself against yellow fever before your trip here.

Americans need an e-visa to enter Kenya. You should apply online at the eVisa government website no more than eight weeks before your trip, as visas are not available upon arrival in Kenya. See more on the U.S. Department of State's website .

Namibia: Those traveling from a country where yellow fever is common need to be vaccinated against it. No visa is required as long as you're staying for 90 days or less.

Rwanda: If you're coming from a country where yellow fever is endemic, a yellow fever vaccination is required before departure.

U.S. citizens and nationals can be issued a 30-day visitor visa on arrival in Rwanda or through the Rwandan Embassy in Washington, D.C. A single-entry visa costs $50, and it's recommended you bring sufficient cash in U.S. dollars to pay for this (although credit card payment may be accepted at Kigali International Airport). Consult the State Department website for more information.

South Africa: A yellow fever vaccination is required if you're traveling from a country with a risk of transmission. No visa is required for stays of 90 days or less.

Tanzania: Travelers must be able to present proof of COVID-19 vaccination with a QR code to enter Tanzania. Unvaccinated travelers must take a PCR test no more than 72 hours before departure, and the test results should be accessible by QR code. Yellow fever vaccines are mandatory if you're traveling from a location where yellow fever is present – including if you spend more than 12 hours in transit in such a country.

Visas are required for tourism in Tanzania. You can apply for a single-entry, 90-day visa online for $50 – and be sure to print a copy of the approval to bring with you. The processing period takes up to 10 days. You can also obtain a visa on arrival for a $100 fee; it's recommended you bring cash to cover this. Find more Tanzanian visa information on the State Department website .

Uganda: To enter Uganda, you must either be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 or present a negative test taken no more than 72 hours before departure. Like Kenya, Uganda is a country with risk of yellow fever transmission. All visitors must show proof of vaccination against yellow fever to enter Uganda, regardless of where you're traveling from.

American visitors to Uganda must apply online for an electronic visa before departure; arriving in Uganda without completing this process could result in your detainment. Visit the State Department website to learn more.

Zambia: Visitors who are fully vaccinated against COVID-19 must show proof of vaccination but do not need a test to enter Zambia; unvaccinated travelers must undergo a PCR test no more than 72 hours before departure. Yellow fever vaccines are only required if you're coming from an area considered at risk.

Visas are required to visit Zambia, but these can be obtained online before your departure or at a port of entry. Check the State Department website for more details.

Zimbabwe: To enter Zimbabwe, travelers must either be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 or must take a negative PCR test no more than 48 hours before your departure. As with other countries on this list, visitors from countries with yellow fever outbreaks also require a vaccine against this illness.

U.S. visitors can obtain a 30-day, single-entry visa upon arrival in Zimbabwe for $30. If you're taking a tour that requires you to leave and reenter Zimbabwe, be sure to get a double-entry visa for $45. You can learn more from the State Department website .

You might also be interested in:

• The Top Passport Wallets (That Also Hold Vaccine Cards)
• The Best COVID-19 Travel Insurance Options
• The Best International Travel Insurance Plans
• The Best Zoos in the U.S.
• The World's Best Places to Visit

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World's Best Places To Visit

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I went on a budget and a luxury safari in Africa. Here's how they compare — and the one thing you really need to look for when booking.

Posted: March 14, 2024 | Last updated: March 14, 2024

• I have been on two glamping safari trips in Africa on two very different budgets.
• My all-inclusive stay was great but my cheaper glamping experience was fine, too. 
• Private game reserves are actually the most important thing to splurge on, not accommodations. 

I've been on two African safari trips . Both involved glamping but on completely different budgets.

My first more affordable trip, a lodge in South Africa with separate safari excursions, cost me about $1,100. My second, an all-inclusive lodge in Tanzania, cost me about $4,000 after a 50% off deal.

Here's how the two compare and what I think you should look for before you plan an African safari .

My affordable safari experience was at Jackalberry Ridge, where some tents cost $80 a night.

The first time I went on a safari, I went to Kruger National Park in South Africa. I didn't book a tour package, instead opting to stay at affordable lodging and book safari day trips to the park.

I stayed five nights near Kruger and one night in Johannesburg before my flight home. I spent around $1,100 for lodging, safari tours, a rental car, and food (not including flights).

After landing in Johannesburg, I rented a car ($130 for five days) to drive to my lodging in Marloth Park, a town bordering the edge of Kruger National Park.

I was staying at Jackalberry Ridge , a self-catering accommodation with no on-site restaurant, no room service, and limited housekeeping.

The one-bedroom tents at Jackalberry Ridge go for as low as $80 a night, and two-bedroom tents go for $135.

When I checked in late, there was no one at the reception desk — just an envelope with my name on it containing my keys and a map.

My main tent felt pretty spacious, with a king bed and a living-room area.

I had booked a two-bedroom unit (two tents), but my friend couldn't come at the last minute. Since I couldn't change the reservation, I still stayed in the two-bedroom unit and my friend paid her share.

The campsite came with a small pool to dip in, but it was covered as the weather was pretty cold.

Each unit had a private bathroom and kitchen in a building separate from the tents, so I needed to leave my tent to use the bathroom at night.

The bathroom was standard, with a tub, shower, and toilet.

This is glamping, so I had access to running water and a flushing toilet. I had hot water, but I found it went from scalding hot to cold in a few seconds.

I ended up taking quick showers and just washing my hair with cold water, which wasn't ideal since it was a little chilly in the morning.

It's also worth noting that Jackalberry Ridge was renovated recently, so the issue I had with hot water may have been fixed now.

I also had access to a kitchen in the same building as the bathroom.

The kitchen was well-equipped with things like pots, a microwave, and a sink, so I could cook meals or heat up leftovers.

I signed up for a couple of day safaris and did one at night.

Although I had a rental car and could've done a self-drive safari around Kruger, I didn't trust myself to spot animals while focusing on the roads.

Instead, I signed up for a couple of day safaris and one night safari. The safari tour prices often don't include the park entrance fee (about $25 per person per day), which I paid when I got to the entrance.

My three safari trips and park fees came to around $280.

I got to see zebras, giraffes, and more.

I saw a lot on the safari, including zebras, impalas, kudus, and giraffes. I saw lions and a leopard, although only from afar with binoculars. I even got a glimpse of the elusive rhinoceros.

I also spent one day taking another popular day trip in the area, the Panorama Route. This scenic road goes past Lisbon Falls and the beautiful Blyde River Canyon. The guided tour was $110.

As far as my very first safari trip goes, it was great. I got to see the Big Five , even though some of them were pretty far away.

For my next safari trip, I leveled up.

I saw a Travelzoo deal for an all-inclusive safari at Taasa Lodge , a five-star luxury safari in Tanzania.

The deal was $6,000 for two people for a whole week — the lodge is usually $12,950 for two for seven nights. It was still a splurge, but I'd be saving more than 50% on a bucket-list experience.

The package came with seven nights of lodging, two safari activities a day, three daily meals, and drinks.

Still, we spent more than the original advertised price. There are obligatory "daily government park fees" and "daily concession fees" that added about $893 per person to our bill.

We also had to take a regional flight to get to Taasa, which was more expensive than my rental car in South Africa.

To redeem the Travelzoo deal, we had to complete our booking through a specific travel agency.

We ended up opting for an all-inclusive add-on package which includes the $893 fees above, domestic airfares from Arusha to Taasa (which would already cost around $600), and our agency arranging our Tanzanian tourist visa and airport transfers. The add-on also included extra activities at the resort (more on that later).

Overall, we paid $1,715 per person on top of the $3,000 each for the lodge stay.

I hadn't anticipated paying so many extras, but it was nice to have someone take care of the logistics of getting to the resort.

My tent was luxurious and equipped with a comfortable king bed and a large living room.

When I arrived at the lodge, the staff greeted me with a glass of juice and a wet towel to refresh myself.

My tent was quite spacious. I especially liked that it had a desk and plenty of outlets I could use to charge my electronics. Our bathroom was behind our bed, and I was glad it was inside the tent this time.

We also got a butler who kept track of our schedules and made sure we had what we needed.

The bathroom felt spacious, with two sinks and a shower.

The shower's hot water was great and we had double sinks we could get ready at.

Another perk of the lodge is that we could have staff do our laundry every day, which meant we could pack less clothing.

There's a main lodge with a communal living room, dining area, and bar.

We got breakfast at the buffet in the main lodge unless we were going on a morning safari.

Most people ate dinner in the dining room, but we could've requested to have food brought to our tent.

We also passed a small pool next to the main lodge.

The pool was on the small side, but certainly had great views.

I didn't end up using it as my afternoons were filled with safari, and the mornings and evenings were chilly.

On the mornings with an early safari, we had a simple breakfast next to our Land Cruiser.

Safari breakfasts consisted of hard-boiled eggs, yogurt, doughnuts, bacon and sausage, fruits, and orange juice. Staff also made French-press coffee, which we could spike with cream liqueur.

Our Land Cruiser had a cooler of beers and sodas in the back, too.

At the private game reserve, we got pretty close to wildlife.

Taasa is located inside a private game reserve, which means staff can pretty much drive anywhere within it. This was a huge leg up from my day trips in Kruger National Park on my last safari.

Inside national parks like Kruger or Serengeti, you're only allowed to drive on designated roads for safety reasons (both for the tourists and the animals).

But in a private reserve, guides can drive offroad. Plus, the guides communicate with each other when they find something special.

We saw a bunch of animals in the private reserve and Serengeti.

We also left the reserve to spend a couple of days going into Serengeti National Park, as there were things you could only find there instead of within the private reserve.

For example, I'd planned my trip to take place during the Great Migration, and I wanted to see wildebeests crossing the Mara River.

We also went to Serengeti to find rhinoceros and hippopotamus.

Every dinner at the resort consisted of three courses: soup, an entrée, and a dessert.

The main course was usually some type of Western food, and there was always a vegetarian option.

It would've been nice to be offered more typical Tanzanian dishes, though. For me, part of the fun of traveling is learning about different countries' cuisines.

I also had access to an open bar in the main lodge. Staff could make simple cocktails, and there was lots of beer and wine. The drinks were all included with the price of the stay (except for fancy Champagnes and select wines).

One morning, we had a special breakfast on the plains.

On one day of the trip, we had a special bush breakfast. It was one of the extra activities we got with that special add-on package.

Instead of our usual safari breakfast, we had freshly prepared omelets in the wild.

We also got another special treat in the bush that morning — a toilet!

When you're offroading looking for wild animals, you can end up pretty far from a proper toilet.

On most safari days, the car stops (when guides think it's safe), and people go behind the car to do their business.

This was the only time we had this portable toilet while out on a safari. On my budget safari day trips at Kruger, we'd have to wait until we reached a rest-stop facility.

Again, we spent a lot of time watching lions.

After breakfast, we were back in safari mode.

We found a family of lions, and as we were in the private reserve, we were able to stay and watch the cubs play for quite a while.

At Kruger, when lions are spotted, traffic starts backing up on the road as all the safari cruisers stop to look, so you can't stay too long.

Here, we knew no one else would be coming.

On a different morning, our guide got a tip that another car had found a leopard sleeping.

The communication between guides in the private reserve paid off when one spotted a sleeping leopard.

When our group arrived, the leopard was napping on the tree next to his catch. Eventually, it came down, and we got a better look.

Our trip ended with a great happy hour and outdoor dinner.

Other activities that were part of our add-on package included a visit to a Maasai village in Kenya and a special happy hour and barbecue dinner.

And, for our journey home, the travel agency took care of everything, including transfers, until we boarded our international flight.

My big takeaway is that it's really worth paying to be inside a private reserve.

In my opinion, the difference between these two safari trips that's the most worth paying for is being in a private reserve.

After all, the main reason I fly to Africa is for the safari, not the glamping.

I much preferred my lodging at Taasa, mostly because of the bathroom. But if I hadn't had the 50% off deal, I'm not sure the full price would've been worth it.

Still, it was a wonderful experience, and if I had more money, I may feel differently. Even so, the budget glamping was pretty comfortable and just fine for a week.

But again, as far as the safari experience goes, the private reserve is hard to beat. Being able to go offroading and get closer to the animals is quite the experience.

And if luxurious lodges are out of the question, private reserves can also be visited more affordably. Some lodges inside private reserves, like Shindzela or Rhino River Lodge, can cost around $250 per person per night.

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