African Safari Guide: Best Time, Cost, and How to Book the Perfect Adventure
An African safari is one of the most unforgettable trips you can ever take. The chance to see lions, elephants, giraffes, rhinos, and zebras in their natural home is magical. Add breathtaking landscapes, warm hospitality, and unique cultures, and you have a life-changing experience.
But if you are planning your first safari, many questions come up. What is the best country to visit? When should you go? How much will it cost? And which company should you trust? This guide will give you clear answers, using simple language and practical tips. By the end, you will know how to plan the safari of your dreams—and why booking with a trusted company like Pleasant Adventures makes the journey stress-free.
Best Country for an African Safari
Africa is huge, and many countries offer safari experiences. Choosing the right destination depends on what you want to see and how you want to travel.
Kenya
Kenya is the birthplace of the classic safari. It is famous for the Masai Mara National Reserve, home to lions, cheetahs, elephants, and the Great Wildebeest Migration. The migration, where millions of wildebeest and zebras cross the Mara River, is one of the world’s greatest wildlife spectacles. Kenya also has Amboseli, with its stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro, and Tsavo, known for elephants and dramatic landscapes.
Tanzania
Tanzania is another top choice. The Serengeti National Park is legendary for endless plains full of wildlife. Ngorongoro Crater, a natural wonder, offers game viewing like nowhere else. Tanzania is also home to the other half of the Great Migration. If you want long, wild safaris in vast open spaces, Tanzania is a perfect choice.
South Africa
South Africa offers something slightly different. The Kruger National Park is one of the most developed safari parks, with great infrastructure and luxury lodges. It is easier for first-time travelers because roads, lodges, and tours are well organized. You can also combine safari with visits to Cape Town, the Garden Route, or nearby wineries.
Botswana
Botswana is known for exclusivity. The Okavango Delta is a pristine wetland where you can see animals from boats or mokoro canoes. The country focuses on low-impact, luxury tourism. It is more expensive but offers an intimate, crowd-free experience.
Verdict: For most first-time visitors, Kenya and Tanzania are the best choices because of their wildlife, cultural experiences, and range of budget options.
Best Time to Go on Safari
Timing matters. The season you choose affects the cost, the wildlife you see, and the overall experience.
Dry Season (Best for Game Viewing)
The dry season is generally the best time for safaris. During this time, animals gather around water sources, making them easier to spot. Vegetation is thinner, so wildlife is not hidden in tall grass. Days are sunny, and chances of rain are low.
- In East Africa (Kenya and Tanzania), the dry season usually runs from June to October.
- In Southern Africa (South Africa, Botswana), it is also from May to October.
This period is considered high season. Prices for lodges and tours are higher, but game viewing is excellent.
Wet Season (Best for Green Landscapes and Birding)
The wet season brings rain, lush landscapes, and newborn animals. It is also the cheapest time to travel because demand is lower. Bird watching is especially good during this time.
- In East Africa, the short rains are in November to December, while the long rains are in March to May.
- In Southern Africa, rains usually fall from November to April.
Cheapest Time for Safari
If you want to save money, travel during the shoulder season—just before or after the peak dry season. For example, late May or early November in Kenya and Tanzania. Prices are lower, but you still get good wildlife viewing.
Best Months for Kenya and Tanzania
- Kenya: July to October for the migration; January to March for predators.
- Tanzania: June to October for Serengeti safaris; December to March for calving season in the south.
Best Month for Tanzania
If you want the Great Migration river crossings, aim for July to September. For calving season with thousands of newborn wildebeest, choose January or February.
Cost of an African Safari
One of the biggest questions travelers have is: how much does a safari cost? The answer depends on the country, season, length of stay, and level of comfort.
Average Safari Cost
On average, an African safari can cost anywhere between $3,000 to $7,000 per person for a week. This usually includes accommodation, park fees, meals, and game drives. Flights are extra.
10-Day Safari Cost
A 10-day safari can range from $4,000 to $10,000 per person, depending on whether you choose mid-range or luxury lodges. Budget camping options are cheaper. Check out our prices here
Flights from the US
Flights from the United States to Africa can cost between $800 and $1,500 round trip, depending on the city and time of year.
Budgeting for Safari
A good rule is to budget at least $500 to $700 per day for a comfortable safari, including lodging, food, and game drives.
Is a Safari Worth the Money?
Yes. Safaris are not cheap, but they are unique. Unlike a beach holiday, a safari offers something truly special: seeing wild animals in their natural environment. Most travelers say it is worth every penny.
Private vs. Group Safari Costs
- Group safaris are more affordable. You share the vehicle and guide with others.
- Private safaris are more expensive but give you full control over the itinerary and pace.
If you want flexibility and privacy, a private safari is worth the extra cost.
How Many Days Should You Spend on Safari?
The ideal safari length is 7 to 10 days. This gives you time to explore different parks and not feel rushed.
- Short safaris (3–4 days): Perfect for a quick experience, often in one park.
- Medium safaris (5–7 days): Allow visits to two or three parks.
- Long safaris (10+ days): Great for combining Kenya and Tanzania, or adding beach time in Zanzibar.
Best Safari Tours and Companies
Choosing the right safari company is very important. It affects your safety, comfort, and overall experience.
How to Choose a Good Safari Company
- Look for companies with good reviews on Tripadvisor or Google.
- Ask what is included in the price: park fees, meals, guides, and transfers.
- Choose companies that focus on sustainability and conservation.
Best Company to Use for an African Safari
There are many international and local operators. But booking with a local company like Pleasant Adventures has benefits: better prices, insider knowledge, and personal service.
Best Way to Book a Kenya Safari
The best way is to contact a local operator directly. They know the parks, lodges, and routes well. They can also customize trips to fit your budget and preferences.
How to Check if a Safari Company is Legit
- Read recent reviews online.
- Check if they respond quickly and professionally to emails.
- Ask for a clear contract and payment terms.
Safari Packages and Booking Options
Why Choose Pleasant Adventures
Pleasant Adventures is based in Kenya and offers tailor-made safaris across East Africa. They provide:
- Expert local guides.
- Flexible itineraries.
- Affordable packages without hidden costs.
- Support before, during, and after the trip.
By booking directly, you cut out middlemen and get a more personalized experience.
FAQs
What is the Best Safari Tour?
The best safari tour depends on your interests. For the Great Migration, choose the Masai Mara or Serengeti. For elephants, Amboseli or Chobe. For a luxury experience, Botswana’s Okavango Delta is ideal.
What is the Best Time of Year for an African Cruise?
If you want to add a cruise to your trip, the best time is during the dry season, when the weather is calmer. This applies to river cruises or Indian Ocean cruises that combine with safaris.
Conclusion
An African safari is not just a vacation. It is an adventure full of wildlife, culture, and stunning scenery. The best countries to visit are Kenya and Tanzania, with Botswana and South Africa also offering unique experiences. The best time to go depends on whether you prefer the dry season for wildlife or the wet season for lower prices.
Safaris can be expensive, but they are worth it. A budget of $3,000 to $7,000 per person for a week is common. Group tours are cheaper, while private tours offer more flexibility.
When choosing a safari company, always go with one that is trusted and experienced. Pleasant Adventures is a reliable choice, offering tailor-made trips that give you value, comfort, and peace of mind.
Your dream safari is closer than you think. With the right planning and the right company, you can experience Africa’s wild beauty in the best way possible.
Call/WhatsApp: +254 748 057 500
Email: info@pleasantadventure.com
Website: www.pleasantadventure.com