Taking an African safari is an exciting holiday choice for many people however, given the nature of such an adventure, there is a required amount of due diligence to perform before you actually take off for the wilds of Africa.

I want to briefly highlight some areas of interest in this article which you will be able to expand on further by conducting more research or talking with your travel agent. So what part of Africa do you want to visit?

Botswana Safari

For sheer contrast in landscapes Botswana is the ideal candidate. From the dry arid lands of the Kalahari desert to the rich, life blooming Okavango Delta, Botswana offers many options. Because of it’s tremendous contrast, Botswana is a perfect choice for first time safari seekers. It has a deep history and and the choice of safaris range from mobile to fly ins.

Kruger National Park

Undoubtedly Africa’s best known safari destination, Kruger has been officially in existence since 1926. Set in South Africa and formerly known as Sabie Park before being expanded and re-named more than 80 years ago, Kruger has been a safe haven for many animal species due to the threat of over hunting. Since being opened to visitors, Kruger has drawn visitors to it like a magnet however, there are certain codes of etiquette you’ll need to observe.

Kenya Safari

Kenya has been described as the “grand daddy” of African safari destinations because it is the birthplace of the traditional safari. Like Botswana, it offers plenty of diversity in both landscape and fauna. The Masai people are almost legendary around the world and the safari options are numerous. One of the favoured safari tours is the Gorilla tour. However, think of an animal in Africa and it’s likely to be in Kenya… elephants, lions, giraffes, zebras, cheetahs… all you’ll need is good working camera.

Tanzania Safari

Tanzania would just about be this author’s favorite safari destination. Tanzania is East Africa’s largest country and as a history student, it conjures up images of a rich, exciting and sometimes violent past. What it has to offer both in landscape and fauna is quite staggering… Kilimanjaro, the Serengeti, wildlife and some amazing national parks. In fact, if it’s wildlife you’re interested in then Tanzania is pretty hard to beat.

These are just four areas on the African Safari trail well worth considering however, throw “into the mix” safari destinations in Namibia, Zambia, Mozambique and Zimbabwe plus consider short term safari options to major landmarks and areas and you begin to appreciate that vastness that is Africa.

Are there any dangers? Well sure, but tour operators are extremely over zealous about the safety of tourists that this almost doesn’t become a concern. Preparation for an African Safari is of the utmost importance and not only will you need to do homework on the intended area of visit but there is a little matter of “housekeeping” to perform as well. What to take? Clothing;light or heavy, personal care items, passports, money, sunblock treatments: your tour operator will be able to give you a shortlist to consider before leaving the country. The latter just about becomes the most important part of the trip because if you get it right, then your African safari experience becomes a whole lot more attractive.




By: Dean Caporella

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