The idea of standing eyeball-to-eyeball with a 300 pound lion excites you--you're safari bound, or at least you'd like to be.
Don't let your sense of adventure fool you into thinking that proper tour selection and
preparation isn't critical.
While you may be used to traveling
independently, this time a good tour company is a must. There are hundreds of listings
online for travel agencies that offer safari packages. Our safari subject covers many of these.
You can choose to go rugged or upscale, but your security with both animals and
governments requires the help of a professional organization.
The most commonly visited countries are Botswana, Zambia, Zimbabwe and Kenya.
English is the official language of each of these except Kenya, and each has had
a reputation for a few years of stable government, a desire to attract tourism, and
commitment to improving the protection of their wildlife.
Your tour company will be helpful in providing you with instructions on how to pack for
your particular tour, and what documentation you will need, but here are some
general tips that will help you begin preparations, as well as decide if a safari
is your cup of tea.
Packing - You'll need to travel light since most safaris require you to fly at
least part of the trip in a small aircraft. Typical weight limits are 25 pounds and
are strictly enforced. Fortunately the warm weather means you can pack lightweight
clothing. Wrinkle-free cotton clothing is best for daytime, along with good walking/hiking
boots. A sweater or light jacket is needed for evenings and mornings. Camouflage is
often prohibited, but khaki or tan clothes are less conspicuous to animals. Don't forget
to pack warm sleeping clothes.
Weather - The best time to visit southern Africa is from April to October. June and July temperatures
range from 45 degrees at night to 75 degrees during the day. In October and November, temperatures
reach around 100 degrees. It is dry and sunny, so hats, sunglasses and good sunblock are a must.
Hand lotion and eyedrops are also nice to have.
Lodging - A wide variety of lodgings are available. Safari camps are nice because
you stay closer to the sights, yet they include many luxuries. Cooked meals,
hot water, electricity (220 volts) and plumbing are usually available. Many include
extras in the price like horseback riding, games and tours. Typical rates are $200-$400 per person per night.
Airfare - Airfare from the US normally costs around $700 roundtrip but varies depending on airline, time of year, and distance flown. High season can increase the price beyond $1,200 roundtrip.
Documentation - Required documents vary with the country. Your travel agent
will help you with this. All countries require a valid passport. Visas are needed in
many countries. US citizens don't need visas in Botswana and South Africa, but they are needed
in Zambia and Zimbabwe. Visas can often be purchased for less than $30 at the border,
but you should ALWAYS confirm what you will need well before you leave. Once again,
your travel agent or tour company should be helpful, or visit the US State Department site.
Odds & Ends - Here are some additional things to bring: A flashlight; good bug repellant;
earplugs (for sleeping); a small calculator (to figure exchange rates); and a good camera with
a strong lense for closeup shots.
Don't Bring Your Vanity - Don't be afraid to get a little dirty. Don't bring nice
things, like jewelry or valuables--they attract unwanted attention. Forget strong perfumed items as they
attract pests. Old clothes work best, and can even be used as bartering currency with locals.
