Practical tips for a Safari

Want to go on a safari but don't know how to go about it? The Quotatrip team has found the best practical tips for you to organize your safari as well as possible: budget, duration, the best times to go... Here is the essential information you need to know to enjoy your safari with peace of mind.

Duration:

If you want to enjoy your stay and have time to discover the wildlife, we advise you to stay for at least 2 to 3 days. For an even more enriching experience and adventure, we recommend opting for a stay of 5 to 7 days. This way, you can truly appreciate nature in all its splendor and see as many animals as possible. The length of your stay will therefore depend on your desires and your budget.

Budget:

Contrary to popular belief, a safari is an expensive trip, you should count from 200 € per person. This price is explained by several factors. First, park entry is expensive since most are national parks where animals are protected and cared for. Then, park visits are done in 4x4s, you will be accompanied by a guide/driver; if you choose a French-speaking guide, the price may increase. The budget will also depend on your accommodation on site, whether camping or in a lodge.

Pace:

A safari is not a relaxing trip, on the contrary, it is a tiring stay that you are about to undertake. You will have to get up early, the days are long and it can quickly become exhausting. That is why we advise you to end your stay on a relaxing note. Spend a few days on the beautiful paradise beaches that these countries also offer.

The ideal: for a week on site: 5 days of safaris and 2 days of relaxation by the water.

Local agency:

Safaris are very popular activities. We recommend going through local agencies to ensure you don't have any unpleasant surprises upon arrival. Activities on site, such as hot air balloon rides over the parks, are booked months in advance. Note that you will not be able to book this type of activity directly on site. Going through a local agency will allow you to get advice, to experience and approach your stay in the best way possible.

Passport, visa and insurance:

When traveling outside the European Union, a passport becomes essential. If you already have a passport, remember to check its validity date; if you don't have a passport, remember to make an appointment early enough. Reminder: a passport is valid for 10 years for an adult and 5 years for a minor. Be careful, some destinations require that travelers' passports are still valid 6 months after the return date.

A visa is a mandatory document for traveling to certain destinations; it allows you to visit a foreign country for a set period. For some safari destinations such as Tanzania, Kenya, and Uganda, a visa is required. To advise you and help you obtain your visas as quickly and efficiently as possible, we recommend our partner Rapide Visa who will be able to advise you.

To easily and affordably obtain your visa with Rapide Visa click here

To travel with peace of mind, don't forget to take out travel insurance. This way, you are covered in case of problems on site. AXA Insurance offers comprehensive travel insurance (luggage, medical expenses abroad, 24/7 traveler assistance, medical repatriation, etc.) that we recommend.

To insure yourself with AXA Travel Insurance click here

Vaccines and medication:

It is important to check with your doctor beforehand about the vaccines and/or medications to take before or during your stay. Recommendations may change from one country or region to another. Malaria, dengue, chikungunya, yellow fever, hepatitis... you need to be up to date with your vaccines and may need boosters. Remember to check before you leave. For all the necessary health information according to your destination visit the website of the Ministry of Europe and Foreign Affairs.

Currency:

You will be leaving the euro zone, so you need to check with your bank to find out the procedures to follow and the fees that may apply. It is strongly advised to have cash with you. We recommend exchanging your currency in your country of departure, as the fees will be lower than in your destination country. You can exchange your money at exchange offices, at your bank, or on a currency sales website.

Important numbers on site:

Here are the numbers of the French embassies to have with you in case of problems on site.

French Embassy in Kenya: Tel: **+**254 20 760 55 55, French Embassy in Tanzania: Tel: +255 22 219 88 00, French Embassy in Uganda: Tel: +256 414 304 500, French Embassy in South Africa: Tel: **+**27 12 425 1600, French Embassy in Namibia: Tel: **+**264 61 27 67 00

The best times to go:

Some periods are more favorable than others for going on a safari. Depending on the regions or countries, these periods may vary. We have listed for you the best seasons and times to go on safaris in the 5 countries where our local agencies are most present to organize the best safaris for you.

Tanzania:

The best season to go on a safari in Tanzania is between the months of June and August. May is very rainy, so you won't enjoy your safari as much as you would like. Also, if you want to combine a safari and relaxation, the best time to enjoy the idyllic beaches starts in June.

Kenya:

In Kenya, there are only three months to avoid for animal safaris: April, May, June. All other months of the year, you can see wildlife without any problem. However, some periods are more pleasant and recommended. The best time to fully enjoy your safari in Kenya is from December to March. The other months are very rainy, which may affect your stay.

South Africa:

The months of October and November are to be preferred for your safaris in South Africa.

Namibia:

In Namibia, from April to October are the best months to do your safari in the best conditions. Unlike other destinations, in Namibia, you can enjoy the weather throughout these 7 months.

Uganda:

We advise you to go between January and February to fully enjoy safaris in Uganda. The other months are likely to be very rainy and may affect your stay.

Request a free quote from our local agencies!

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