How to Plan an African Safari
For the wildlife enthusiast, an African safari offers an incredible experience. Imagine sitting in an open vehicle just feet from a lion relaxing in the shade or spotting a towering giraffe grazing on a tree. Depending where you live, it may take a long journey to reach an African safari destination. You'll forget the jet lag once you glimpse the magnificent animals interacting in their own environment.
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Instructions
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Be prepared to spend a lot of money. The best way to experience an African safari is to stay at a private game reserve. Inside the reserve there are small lodges with packages that include room, meals and game drives. Save money by staying at a hotel outside a game reserve, but keep in mind that the hotels can be a long drive from the action. You either need to rent a vehicle or book day tours, which can also be costly. The benefit of staying at a game reserve is that the experienced guides and trackers know exactly where to find the wild beasts you want to see.
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Select a country. The most well-known countries for a safari are South Africa, Kenya, Tanzania and Botswana. Krueger National Park in South Africa is a popular destination for many travelers.
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Research the country's visa requirements. Some countries require visitors to obtain a travel visa. Contact the country's United States embassy well in advance to inquire.
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Find a game lodge. Search the Internet for game lodges or contact a travel agent who specializes in African safaris. Choose a complete package that includes airfare, lodging and ground transportation. Accommodations vary so ask a lot of questions to find a room that fits your comfort level. Get full details on what is included in the price.
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Reserve ground transportation to the game reserve. Book airline tickets into the closest major city. You may need to take another flight to a town close to the game reserve. From there, the options vary based on your destination: rent a car and self drive, arrange to be picked up by a driver or take a small private aircraft if the game reserve has an airstrip.
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Identify any required vaccinations or preventative medications. Contact your physician or the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Malaria is a common disease in Africa, so you may wish to take precautions.
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Pack wisely. Bring the following items on your African safari: comfortable shorts, pants, short sleeve shirts, jacket or sweater, closed in shoes, hat, sun glasses, bug repellent and a camera.
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Tips & Warnings
The typical day at a game lodge starts with a two- to three-hour early morning game drive followed by a hearty breakfast. Set off again in the late afternoon for a few more hours of viewing and then enjoy a "sundowner" (happy hour cocktail) out in the wild before returning to the lodge for dinner.
The meals at the game reserve lodges are typically served communal style, so you won't be ordering from a restaurant menu.
