There are so many different countries and national parks in Africa, each of them with their numerous rules and regulations. Each country and national park also has its best time to visit. Traveling to an African safari destination is a little different than visiting a city or a beach holiday.
Having sent many people on African safaris, here are a few frequently asked questions by the guests.
1. Which is the best season to do safaris in Africa?
Since Africa is a vast continent, the best time to visit a park, differs from country to country.
Generally, June to October is a good time to visit most national park across Africa.
If you are unsure about when to visit a particular African country or a specific national park, call us or email us and we will help you plan your trip.
2. How much in advance do I need to book my African holiday?
Booking your African holiday at least 3 to 6 months in advance is always a good idea.
A lot of the popular jungle lodges, get sold out very quickly especially during its peak season.
For example: July to September is particular popular for The Great Migration in Tanzania and Kenya and hence booking at the start of the year for these months is essential
If you need help planning your trip, call us or email us and we will help you
3. What vaccinations do I need to get and for which African countries?
– Yellow fever & Polio vaccinations are mainly required for Travel to Kenya & Tanzania
– Countries like South Africa, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Zambia and Namibia do not require you to get vaccinations.
However health and safety rules do keep changing from time to time so call us or email us and we will update you on the vaccinations required.
4. What are the visa requirements?
Some countries like Kenya have a visa on arrival system for Indians whereas some countries like Namibia, South Africa the visas need to be applied for in advance. Countries such as Zimbabwe and Zambia also have the option for applying for the visas online.
However, visa rules change constantly so give us a call and we will help you with your visas.
5. Private game reserves /Concessions/ Conservancies v/s National Parks.
Africa unlike India has many great private game reserves and concessions. Parks in Africa are pretty large so sections of these parks are given to private companies .
Most concessions and private game reserves are game rich and hence it is always a good idea to balance out the trip with a few days in the national park and a few in the private concession / private game reserve.
If you are unsure of park to choose, call us or email us and we will help you plan your trip.
6. How many days will I need for my African holiday?
Anything between 7-10 days is needed if you are visiting one so you can thoroughly explore the country.
Around 12-14 days are approximately required if you choose to do a combination of a few countries.
If you need any help planning your trip, do call us or email us and we will walk you through it.
7. What should I pack for a safari?
Most of the national parks are located further away from a major city even though most of the jungle lodges are well equipped , it is important to be prepared. You must carry the essential things required for a safari holiday, like a hat, a pair of sunglasses, a good pair of binoculars etc. You must also remember to carry all your medication.
Here is a link to a comprehensive SAFARI PACKING CHECK-LIST that you can download and print.
