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An African safari is a magical experience and should be on everyone’s bucket list. However, for a first-time safari-goer, the process of booking one can quickly become overwhelming. Unlike most trips, a safari requires careful research and preparation to ensure everything goes smoothly.
Many travelers wonder, “When is the best time to go?” or “How do I find a trustworthy safari operator?” With so much information available, it can be hard to know where to begin. But don’t worry—booking an African safari doesn’t have to be complicated.
In this post, we’ll guide you through how to book an African safari in 7 simple steps, ensuring you’re prepared for the adventure of a lifetime. Whether you dream of seeing the Big Five in Tanzania or trekking through the jungles of Uganda to see mountain gorillas, these steps will help you plan an unforgettable safari experience.

How to Book an African Safari:
1. Choose a Date to Go on Safari
The first step in booking an African safari is selecting your travel dates. While most African safari destinations are accessible year-round, the timing of your trip is important to consider. Factors such as weather, wildlife activity, and budget should all be factored into your decision.
The Dry Season (June to October)
The dry season is the most popular time for safaris. It’s generally from June to October but can vary by region. During this period, wildlife tends to gather in large numbers around watering holes, making animals easier to locate. The sparse vegetation further improves visibility.
However, the dry season also comes with a few downsides. It’s considered the high season, meaning accommodation rates are at their peak, and you’ll need to book your safari well in advance—sometimes up to a year. Keep in mind some months during the dry season can be quite warm and the environment can be dusty.
The Green Season (November to May)
The green season, which runs from November to May, offers a different type of safari experience. Rain transforms the landscape into lush, vibrant greenery, creating stunning scenery. This period is less crowded, and you’re likely to find better deals on flights and accommodations.
One highlight of the green season is the calving season, typically from January to March, when many animals give birth. This also attracts predators, so be aware that you may witness predator-prey interactions. If seeing the Great Wildebeest Migration is on your bucket list, plan to visit the Serengeti between December and March, when the herds are calving in the southern plains.
Key Considerations When Choosing a Date
- Length of Stay: Consider how much time you can dedicate to your safari and whether you’d like to include other activities, such as beach extensions or cultural tours.
- Flexibility: Have a few date options in mind, as your first choice may not be available, especially during high season.
- Budget: The dry season is more expensive, while the green season offers better value.
2. Deciding on Your Safari Destination
Your safari destination will depend on the time of year you plan to travel and the specific wildlife experiences you’re seeking. Seasons can vary between African countries, so it’s important to align your destination with your safari goals. Think about what you hope to see—are there specific parks on your bucket list, or do you have a particular animal experience in mind? Some species are location-specific. Tanzania or South Africa are ideal for the Big Five and Rwanda or Uganda are great for mountain gorillas.
Additionally, consider any nearby attractions. Do you want to relax at the beach before or after your safari? Are you interested in visiting iconic landmarks like Victoria Falls? You may also want to decide whether you prefer a safari-focused trip or a more balanced itinerary with a mix of wildlife and cultural experiences.
Make a list of parks, places, and animals that interest you, and share it with your safari operator. They can offer tailored suggestions and help you choose the perfect destination for your adventure.
3. Set a Budget & Choose a Travel Style
There are many types of safaris available, and what you choose will largely depend on your budget. Safari itineraries and travel styles vary greatly, but most destinations are remote, requiring detailed logistics and planning. It’s important to note that a safari is not an inexpensive experience, and your budget will influence your choice of accommodations, the season you travel, and the level of comfort you can expect.
Types of Safaris:
If you book through a tour operator, safaris generally fall into three categories:
- Budget Safaris: Typically involve camping or stays at budget-friendly lodges.
- Mid-Luxury Safaris: Offer 3- to 4-star accommodations or a mix of budget and luxury lodges. This is a popular option for travelers seeking comfort without the high cost of a luxury safari.
- Luxury Safaris: Feature 4- to 5-star accommodations, with some packages including flights to parks, private guides, and premium services.
Most safari packages are all-inclusive, covering meals, accommodations, guides, park fees, and often airport transfers. Some packages may also include additional activities like walking safaris or cultural visits.
When planning your budget, consider whether you prefer a group safari or a private one. Private safaris provide more flexibility and a personalized experience but are typically more expensive. A mid-luxury 5-day safari starts at approximately $2,300+ per person.
Booking Independently:
For a more budget-friendly option, consider skipping a tour operator and booking directly. While this approach requires more effort, it can save money. Many lodges and camps can be reserved through sites like Booking.com, and you can then contact the lodge or camp directly to arrange game drives or other activities.
Favorite Lodges
Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge
Located above the Ngorongoro Crater in Tanzania, this beautiful mid-luxury lodge offers breathtaking views of the crater floor. The Ngorongoro Crater is one of Africa’s most iconic safari destinations, home to the Big Five. The lodge includes meals and offers a range of activities, making it an excellent choice for your Tanzanian safari.
Four Seasons Safari Lodge Serengeti
For those seeking a luxury experience in Tanzania, the Four Seasons Safari Lodge Serengeti provides unparalleled comfort in the heart of Serengeti National Park. This premium lodge offers top-tier accommodations, exceptional dining, and easy access to one of Africa’s most famous safari destinations.
Located on the banks of the Chobe River in Botswana, Chobe River Lodge offers a serene escape. Known for its proximity to Chobe National Park, the lodge provides incredible wildlife viewing opportunities. The park is known for its large herds of elephants and lion population. Guests can also enjoy river safaris.
4. Choosing the Right Tour Operator
Selecting the right tour operator is a crucial step in how to book an African safari successfully. The right operator can turn your trip into a magical, once-in-a-lifetime experience, while the wrong choice can lead to disappointment. A reputable operator will be ethical, eco-conscious, and committed to following park regulations.
Operators who drive irresponsibly or disturb wildlife can quickly ruin your experience. A good safari operator will listen carefully to your preferences, address any concerns, and provide detailed, tailored suggestions. They should be experienced, knowledgeable about the parks, and fully insured.
How to Research Tour Operators
The best way to begin your search is by asking for recommendations. Reach out to friends, family, or coworkers who have been on safari and inquire about their experiences. Personal referrals can often point you in the right direction. Additionally, read plenty of reviews online—TripAdvisor is an excellent resource for getting insights from other travelers.
For my safari, I chose Gosheni Safaris and had a wonderful experience. They made the entire process straightforward and stress-free, from planning the itinerary to ensuring everything ran smoothly on the ground.
5. Contacting Safari Operators
After thoroughly researching tour operators, narrow your list down to a small handful and draft an inquiry to each. Many operators provide online forms to initiate contact, allowing you to share your preferences and discuss details further. By this stage, you should have a clear idea of what you’re looking for in a safari.
In your inquiry, be specific about your preferences and expectations. Include the following details:
- Destinations or regions you’re interested in
- Specific parks or reserves you’d like to visit
- Your budget range
- Animals you hope to see
- The number of people in your group
- Any special requirements or preferences, such as accommodations, dietary needs, or activities
A reputable safari operator should demonstrate in-depth knowledge of the country and its parks. They should ask relevant questions regarding your inquiry, make tailored recommendations, and provide a detailed itinerary and pricing based on the information you’ve shared. Be cautious of operators who send untimely or overly generic responses, as this may indicate a lack of professionalism or attention to detail. You will want to choose an operator who communicates effectively and provides personalized service.
6. Securing Your African Safari Booking
Once you’ve selected a tour operator and are satisfied with the proposed itinerary, the next step is to secure your safari booking. Start by confirming that there are suitable international and domestic flights available for your proposed travel dates. It’s a good idea to have a few backup options in case flights fill up before your safari is finalized.
To secure your safari, you’ll need to provide the tour operator with a deposit, which is typically required within a few days of booking. The operator will issue an invoice and inform you of the deadline for the remaining balance. Before making your payment, carefully review the company’s policies, including their cancellation terms, to ensure they align with your needs.
For added security, consider using a travel credit card that includes travel insurance. If you don’t have a card with this feature, purchasing a separate travel insurance policy is highly recommended. Safaris can be a significant investment, and having coverage will protect you in case of unexpected changes or emergencies.
7. Booking Flights for Your African Safari
The final step to book your African safari is reserving your flights. Once your safari dates are confirmed, it’s time to secure the international flight you previously researched. Your tour operator will provide guidance on the best airport for your arrival and departure.
In some cases, domestic flights within Africa may not be included in your safari package and will need to be booked independently. Be sure to clarify with your operator whether these are your responsibility and confirm all flight details, including departure times and locations. Keep in mind that flights to remote destinations often have limited schedules and may not operate daily, so plan accordingly.
Have you been on a safari? Do you have any additional tips on how to book an African safari? I’d love to hear them. If you’ve enjoyed this post, please leave a comment or share using the social media buttons below. Ready to start packing for your safari? Continue to my post “Packing for Safari: Everything You Need to Know“.
It is my dream to go on a safari! So many helpful points here, will definitely refer back to this when I start planning!
I can’t recommend it enough. Happy to help you with any planning in the future!
Africa is likely going to be my next travel destination, and everyone I know has recommended Tanzania for a safari. I didn’t know hardly anything about how the safaris worked, other than they are expensive. But looking at everything you got, it definitely looks like it is worth the price tag! Your photos are fantastic as well!
Thank you! If you have the opportunity, do it. It has been my best travel experience to date. I have a couple more posts on it in the works that should be up within the next week or two . :)
Nice Article! Planning ahead is certainly the way forward with holidays, especially popular destinations.