First Time Safari in Africa: Complete Planning Guide

Travel Tips, Wildlife
October 23, 2025

You’ve dreamed about it for years. You’ve watched countless nature documentaries. You’ve imagined yourself in an open safari vehicle, surrounded by golden savannah, watching a pride of lions bask in the African sun. Now you’re finally ready to turn that dream into reality—but where do you even start?

Planning your first African safari can feel overwhelming. Which country should you visit? What’s the best time to go? How much will it really cost? What should you pack? Is it safe? Will you actually see the Big Five?

After leading safaris across East Africa for over a decade, I can tell you this: your first safari will likely be one of the most transformative travel experiences of your life. But it requires proper planning to ensure everything goes smoothly and you make the most of this once-in-a-lifetime adventure.

This comprehensive guide answers every question first-time safari-goers ask, from the very beginning stages of planning through your actual time in the bush. By the end, you’ll feel confident and excited to book your dream African safari.

Quick Answer: For first-time safari-goers, we recommend Kenya’s Masai Mara or Tanzania’s Serengeti (July-October for the Great Migration), or South Africa’s Kruger National Park (year-round excellent wildlife viewing with the easiest logistics). Plan for 7-10 days minimum, budget $2,500-$5,000 per person for a mid-range experience, and book 6-12 months in advance, especially for peak season travel.

What Is an African Safari, Really?

Before we dive into the logistics, let’s clarify what a safari actually entails. The word “safari” comes from the Swahili word meaning “journey” or “expedition,” and that’s exactly what it is—a journey into Africa’s wild spaces to observe animals in their natural habitat.

What a Modern Safari Looks Like

Contrary to what you might imagine from old movies, modern safaris are not about camping in tents you pitch yourself or roughing it with minimal amenities (unless that’s specifically what you choose). Most safaris today involve:

Game Drives: The primary activity on most safaris. You’ll travel in specially designed 4×4 safari vehicles (typically Toyota Land Cruisers or Land Rovers) with open sides or pop-up roofs for optimal viewing and photography. These drives typically last 3-4 hours and happen twice daily—early morning (around 6:00 AM) and late afternoon (around 4:00 PM).

Comfortable Accommodation: From luxury tented camps with en-suite bathrooms and gourmet meals to mid-range lodges with swimming pools, modern safari accommodations range from comfortable to absolutely luxurious.

Expert Guides: Your safari guide is key to your experience. These highly trained professionals know animal behaviour, can track wildlife, identify bird species, and ensure your safety while making sure you don’t miss any action.

All-Inclusive Experiences: Most safari packages include all meals, accommodations, game drives, park fees, and transfers. You typically only pay extra for drinks (sometimes), tips, and personal purchases.

What Makes African Safaris Special?

Unlike visiting a zoo or wildlife park, on safari you’re entering the animals’ world—not the other way around. You’re a guest in their home. The unpredictability is part of the magic. You might witness a dramatic lion hunt, stumble upon a leopard lounging in a tree, or watch thousands of wildebeest crossing a crocodile-infested river.

Every safari is different. Even on the same game drive routes, you’ll see different animals, behaviors, and moments. That’s what makes it so addictive—many people return for their second, third, and tenth safaris because no two experiences are ever the same.

See stories and reviews from TripAdvisor

Best Countries for First-Time Safari-Goers

Africa has over 150 game parks and reserves, but some destinations are better suited for first-timers than others. Here are the top choices based on wildlife abundance, accessibility, infrastructure, and overall experience.

Kenya: The Classic Safari Destination

Best For: First-timers wanting guaranteed wildlife, Great Migration viewing (July-October), easier logistics

Top Parks:

Masai Mara National Reserve: Home to the Big Five, famous for wildebeest migration and Mara River crossings
Amboseli National Park: Large elephant herds with Mount Kilimanjaro backdrop
Samburu National Reserve: Unique northern species like Grevy’s zebras, reticulated giraffes, and gerenuk

Why Kenya for First-Timers:

Excellent infrastructure and well-developed tourism industry
Shorter travel distances between parks
Multiple accommodation options for every budget
Easy access from Nairobi (5-6 hour drive or 45-minute flight to Masai Mara)
High wildlife density means guaranteed sightings
English widely spoken

Typical Costs: $250-600 per person per day (all-inclusive)

Best Time: July-October for migration, January-March for fewer crowds and lower prices

OUR COLLECTION OF KENYA SAFARIS

Tanzania: The Serengeti and Beyond

Best For: Those wanting vast wilderness, year-round migration experiences, combining with Zanzibar

Top Parks:

Serengeti National Park: Endless plains, incredible year-round wildlife, multiple migration events
Ngorongoro Crater: World’s largest intact volcanic caldera, highest concentration of wildlife
Tarangire National Park: Massive elephant populations and ancient baobab trees

Why Tanzania for First-Timers:

Serengeti offers the most authentic “Out of Africa” experience
Less crowded than Kenya’s Masai Mara
Spectacular calving season (January-March)
Easy combination with Zanzibar beaches
Ngorongoro Crater is unmissable

Typical Costs: $300-700 per person per day (all-inclusive)

Best Time: December-March for calving, June-October for northern Serengeti migration

OUR COLLECTION OF TANZANIA SAFARIS

South Africa: The Easiest Entry Point

Best For: First-timers wanting malaria-free options, self-drive possibilities, combining safari with wine/beaches

Top Parks:

Kruger National Park: One of Africa’s largest game reserves, excellent Big Five viewing
Sabi Sands Private Reserve: Adjacent to Kruger, offers exclusive, luxury experiences
Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park: KwaZulu-Natal, excellent rhino viewing

Why South Africa for First-Timers:

Most accessible African safari destination
Excellent infrastructure and roads
Malaria-free areas available (some parts of Kruger)
Self-drive safari options for budget travelers
Can combine with Cape Town, Garden Route, wine regions
First-world amenities and medical facilities

Typical Costs: $200-500 per person per day (budget camping to luxury lodges)

Best Time: May-September for dry season game viewing

Contact our Safari Experts to plan your South Africa Safari

Botswana: For the Adventurous First-Timer

Best For: Those wanting exclusive, uncrowded, water-based safaris

Top Parks:

Chobe National Park: World’s largest elephant concentration
Okavango Delta: Unique water-based safari with mokoro (dugout canoe) experiences
Makgadikgadi Pans: Otherworldly landscapes and zebra migration

Why Botswana:

Low-volume, high-cost model means fewer tourists
Unique water-based safari experiences
Incredibly pristine wilderness
Excellent for photographers wanting uncrowded shots

Typical Costs: $500-1,200 per person per day (generally more expensive)

Best Time: May-October for dry season, July-October for Chobe elephants

Contact our Safari Experts to plan your Botswana Safari

Namibia: For Self-Drive Enthusiasts

Best For: Adventurous travelers wanting dramatic desert landscapes, self-drive flexibility

Top Parks:

Etosha National Park: Excellent self-drive wildlife viewing around waterholes
Sossusvlei: Towering red sand dunes and desert-adapted wildlife

Why Namibia:

Easiest country for self-drive safaris
Excellent roads and infrastructure
Unique desert landscapes
More affordable than other destinations
Very safe for tourists

Typical Costs: $150-400 per person per day

Best Time: May-October

OUR COLLECTION OF NAMIBIA SAFARIS

Our Top Recommendation for First-Timers

If you’re visiting July-October and want to see the Great Migration: Kenya’s Masai Mara (easier access, shorter trip possible)

If you’re visiting January-March or want less crowds: Tanzania’s Serengeti + Ngorongoro (spectacular calving season)

If you want the easiest logistics and malaria-free options: South Africa’s Kruger (can self-drive, excellent infrastructure)

If you want to experience two countries: Combined Kenya-Tanzania safari (12-14 days, see multiple parks and ecosystems)

When Is the Best Time to Go on Safari?

This is one of the most important decisions you’ll make, as timing dramatically affects your experience, costs, and what wildlife you’ll see.

Understanding African Seasons

Africa’s seasons are opposite to North America and Europe. When it’s winter in the Northern Hemisphere, it’s summer in sub-Saharan Africa (and vice versa). However, “seasons” in tropical Africa are better defined by rainfall than temperature:

Dry Season (Winter): June-October in East and Southern Africa

Advantages: Best wildlife viewing (animals concentrate around water), pleasant temperatures, clear skies, minimal rain, easier roads
Disadvantages: Peak tourist season (higher prices, more crowds), dusty conditions, hot midday temperatures

Wet Season (Summer): November-May in East and Southern Africa

Advantages: Lower prices (30-50% off), fewer tourists, lush green landscapes, baby animals (December-March), excellent birding, dramatic skies for photography
Disadvantages: Afternoon rain showers, some roads difficult to navigate, taller grass (harder to spot predators), some camps closed

Month-by-Month Safari Planning

January-March: The Calving Season

Best for: Tanzania’s Serengeti southern plains, Kenya’s Masai Mara (resident wildlife)
Why go: Approximately 500,000 wildebeest calves born (February-March), incredible predator action, fewer tourists than peak season
Weather: Short dry season in East Africa, warm temperatures, occasional afternoon showers
Costs: Medium-high
Verdict: One of the absolute best times for safari—dramatic wildlife action without peak crowds

April-May: The Long Rains

Best for: Budget travelers, photographers who love dramatic skies
Why consider: Lowest prices of the year (40-50% off), virtually empty parks, incredibly lush landscapes
Why avoid: Heavy afternoon rains, some roads impassable, taller grass makes predator spotting harder, some camps close
Costs: Lowest
Verdict: Only for flexible, adventurous travelers who prioritize budget and don’t mind rain

June: Transition Month

Best for: Western Serengeti (Grumeti River crossings), shoulder season deals
Why go: Migration moving north, great weather beginning, fewer crowds than July-October, still reasonable prices
Costs: Medium
Verdict: Underrated sweet spot—good value with improving conditions

July-October: Peak Dry Season

Best for: Great Migration in Masai Mara/Northern Serengeti, guaranteed wildlife viewing, first-timers
Why go: Peak migration months with dramatic Mara River crossings, excellent weather, best game viewing conditions, animals concentrated at water sources
Why reconsider: Most expensive season, highest crowds (especially August-September), hot and dusty, book 6-12 months advance
Costs: Highest (peak season rates)
Verdict: Peak season for good reason—spectacular wildlife action, but expect company and higher prices

November: Short Rains

Best for: Budget travelers, those wanting fewer crowds
Why go: Migration returning to Tanzania, shoulder season prices, usually just brief afternoon showers
Costs: Medium
Verdict: Solid option if you’re flexible and don’t mind occasional rain

December: Festive Season

Best for: Families on school holidays, combining safari with beach
Why go: Good weather resuming, migration in southern Serengeti, festive atmosphere in camps
Costs: High (holiday premium)
Verdict: Excellent wildlife viewing, but prepare for holiday price premiums

Best Time Based on Your Priorities

Best wildlife viewing overall: July-October (dry season)
Best for Great Migration river crossings: Late July-September (Masai Mara)
Best for wildebeest calving season: January-March (Southern Serengeti)
Best for avoiding crowds: April-June, November
Best for photography: January-March (green season with babies), or June (post-rain clarity)
Best for budget: April-May (green season discounts)
Best weather (least rain): June-October
Best for birding: November-April (migratory birds present)

How Much Does a Safari Cost?

Let’s be honest: safaris are expensive. But understanding what you’re paying for and where costs come from helps you budget appropriately and find the best value.

Cost Breakdown by Safari Category

MID-RANGE SAFARIS: $300-500 per person per day

What you get:

Comfortable tented camps or lodges
Smaller vehicles (typically 4-6 people)
Quality meals (often à la carte options)
Experienced guides
Better positioned camps
Some extras (sundowner drinks, bush walks)

What's typically NOT included:

Alcoholic beverages (sometimes)
Laundry
Tips
Premium activities (hot air balloons, night drives)

Best for: Most first-time safari-goers wanting comfort without luxury prices

LUXURY SAFARIS: $600-1,200 per person per day

What you get:

High-end tented camps or exclusive lodges
Private or semi-private vehicles
Gourmet meals and premium drinks included
Top-tier guides
Best locations (often private conservancies)
Swimming pools, spa services
Extras: sundowners, bush dinners, walking safaris
Fewer guests (more exclusive)

What's typically NOT included:

Premium champagne/wines (sometimes)
Tips (though sometimes included)
Helicopter transfers

Best for: Ultra-high-net-worth travelers, once-in-a-lifetime celebrations

What's Included in "All-Inclusive" Safari Packages?

Most safari packages advertise as “all-inclusive,” but understanding exactly what that means prevents surprises:

Typically Included:

✅ All meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
✅ Game drives in 4×4 safari vehicles
✅ Services of professional driver-guide
✅ Park entrance fees and conservation fees
✅ Airport/airstrip transfers
✅ Drinking water on game drives
✅ Tea/coffee throughout the day

Often INCLUDED (check your package):

✅ Some alcoholic beverages (house wines/beers)
✅ Soft drinks
✅ Laundry service (luxury camps)
✅ Walking safaris (where permitted)

Other Costs to Budget for

Beyond the safari package price, budget for these additional expenses:

International Flights
Visa Fees
Vaccinations
Travel Insurance
Tips: Budget $15-25 per person per day (guides, trackers, camp staff)
Additional Activities:
- Hot air balloon safari: $450-600 per person
- Cultural village visits: $20-50 per person
- Night game drives: $50-100 per person
Souvenirs and Shopping: $50-200+
Pre/Post Safari Hotel Nights: $100-300 per night in Nairobi/Arusha

Money-Saving Safari Tips

If you’re on a tighter budget, here’s how to make safaris more affordable:

Travel during shoulder or green season (April-June, November) for 30-50% discounts
Book a group tour instead of private (can save 40-60%)
Choose Kenya over Tanzania (generally 15-25% cheaper)
Stay just outside park boundaries (conservancy lodges often better value)
Self-drive in South Africa or Namibia (huge savings on guide/vehicle costs)
Combine with friends to share private vehicle costs
Book directly with lodges (avoid tour operator markup)
Limit internal flights (drive when possible)
Shorter safari, longer beach stay (beaches are much more affordable)
Book well in advance (early bird discounts of 10-20%)

How Long Should Your First Safari Be?

This depends on your available time, budget, and how many destinations you want to experience. Here’s what different durations offer:

3-4 Days: The Minimum Safari

Best for: Time-limited travelers, adding safari to business trip, tight budgets

What you can do:

Single park experience (Masai Mara or northern Serengeti)
6-8 game drives total
Good chances of seeing most of the Big Five

Pros

More affordable
Less time off work
Still magical and memorable

Cons

Rushed feeling
Weather/luck factors have bigger impact
Less time to relax
Can’t visit multiple parks

5-7 Days: The Sweet Spot

Best for: Most first-timers, standard vacation time, single-country experience

What you can do:

1-2 parks thoroughly explored
10-14 game drives
Excellent Big Five viewing chances
Time to relax and enjoy the safari rhythm
Possible to combine two parks (e.g., Masai Mara + Amboseli)

Pros

Enough time for comprehensive experience
Multiple chances to see specific animals
Can experience different ecosystems
Don’t feel rushed
Reasonable cost

Cons

May want more time once there
Still challenging to visit 3+ park

Our verdict: Perfect duration for most first-timers. Long enough to feel satisfied, short enough to fit normal vacation time.

8-10 Days: The Optimal Experience

Best for: Serious wildlife enthusiasts, multi-park exploration, combining countries

What you can do:

2-3 parks comprehensively
16-20 game drives
Virtual guarantee of seeing everything you hoped for
Relaxed pace with downtime
Combine safari with beach extension
Experience two countries (Kenya + Tanzania)

Pros

Deeply satisfying experience
See diverse ecosystems and wildlife
Time to truly unwind and absorb
Weather/timing factors matter less
Can witness different migration events

Cons

Higher total cost
Requires more vacation time
May feel long for some people

Our verdict: If you have the time and budget, this is ideal. You’ll see incredible diversity without feeling rushed.

First-Timer Duration Recommendations

Minimum viable safari: 4 days (single park)
Recommended minimum: 6-7 days (allows 2 parks or thorough single-park experience)
Optimal for first-timers: 8-10 days (multiple parks, relaxed pace)
Ultimate experience: 12-14 days (safari + beach, multiple countries)

Important consideration: Remember you’ll be waking up at 5:30-6:00 AM for morning game drives and returning from evening drives around 7:30-8:00 PM. While exhilarating, it’s also tiring. Most people find 10-12 days to be the maximum before they’re ready for the comforts of home or a beach resort.

What Will You Actually See? (Managing Expectations)

Let’s set realistic expectations about wildlife viewing on your first safari.

The Big Five: Will You See Them All?

The “Big Five” (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino) were named by big game hunters for being the most dangerous and difficult animals to hunt on foot. Today, they represent safari’s ultimate checklist.

Your chances of seeing each on a 7-day safari:

Lions: 95%+ chance

The most commonly seen big predator
Social animals often found in prides
Usually spotted lounging in shade or on rocks
Best sightings: Masai Mara, Serengeti, Kruger

Elephants: 95%+ chance

Abundant in most major parks
Often in family herds
Impossible to miss in parks like Amboseli, Chobe, Tarangire
Most sightings: Near water sources and riverine forests

Buffalo: 90%+ chance

Large herds common in most parks
Often seen near water
During migration season, thousands visible

Leopards: 60-75% chance

More elusive and solitary
Often rest in trees during the day
Require skilled guides and patience
Best sightings: Private conservancies, Sabi Sands, South Luangwa

Rhinos: 40-70% chance (varies greatly by destination)

Most endangered of the Big Five
Black rhinos very rare in Kenya/Tanzania
Better odds: Ngorongoro Crater, Ol Pejeta Conservancy, Kruger, Hluhluwe-iMfolozi
If rhinos are priority, plan specifically around this

Beyond the Big Five: Other Wildlife You’ll See

A common mistake first-timers make is obsessing over the Big Five and missing the incredible diversity of other wildlife:

Predators:

Cheetahs (excellent chances in Mara/Serengeti)
Hyenas (almost guaranteed)
Jackals
Wild dogs (rare but possible in Serengeti, Botswana)

Herbivores:

Giraffes (virtually guaranteed)
Zebras (everywhere in massive numbers)
Wildebeest (especially during migration)
Hippos (common near rivers)
Warthogs
Various antelope species (impalas, gazelles, topi, hartebeest, waterbuck)

Primates:

Baboons (very common)
Vervet monkeys
Colobus monkeys (in forested areas)

Birds:

500-700 species depending on park
Secretary birds, eagles, vultures, hornbills, bee-eaters
Flamingos (Lake Nakuru, Lake Natron)

The Reality of Game Viewing

Here’s what safari companies won’t always tell you, but I will:

You won’t see action-packed wildlife every second: Game drives involve a lot of driving and searching. You might spend 30-45 minutes without seeing major wildlife, then suddenly encounter a pride of lions. The searching is part of the experience—enjoy the landscapes, bird life, and anticipation.

You can’t predict or control what you’ll see: Wildlife viewing is never guaranteed. Animals are wild and move according to their own needs, not tourist schedules. Even in the best parks during peak season, you might miss seeing certain animals.

Some days will be better than others: You might have an incredible morning with multiple big cat sightings, then a quieter afternoon drive. Or vice versa. That’s the nature of wildlife—it’s unpredictable, and that’s what makes it magical.

Weather affects visibility: Rain, tall grass, and heat (which makes animals seek shade) all impact viewing. This is why dry season (June-October) is considered best for game viewing—animals concentrate at water sources and grass is shorter.

Timing matters: Early mornings (6:00-10:00 AM) and late afternoons (4:00-7:00 PM) offer the best wildlife activity. Midday is typically quiet as animals rest in shade to escape the heat. Plan rest/relaxation time during midday hours.

Don’t compare your safari to others: Someone might see a leopard kill on their first game drive, while you don’t see a leopard until day five. Someone else might witness the Great Migration river crossing, while you see thousands of wildebeest but no crossings. Every safari is different—embrace YOUR unique experience.

What to Expect on a Typical Safari Day

Let me walk you through a standard day on safari so you know exactly what to expect.

5:30 AM – Early Morning Wake-Up Call

Your tent/room steward will gently wake you (usually with a knock and “Jambo” greeting) or bring early morning tea/coffee to your room. Yes, this is early—but trust me, it’s worth it. This is prime wildlife viewing time.

What to do:

Get dressed in layers (it’s cold at dawn)
Use the bathroom
Grab your camera, binoculars, and sunglasses
Apply sunscreen and insect repellent

6:00 AM – Breakfast (Light/Continental)

Most camps offer a quick continental breakfast before the morning drive: fresh fruit, pastries, yogurt, coffee, tea, juice. Some guests skip this and just have coffee, preferring to get out sooner.

6:15-6:30 AM – Morning Game Drive Departs

You’ll board your safari vehicle with your guide and typically 2-6 other guests (depending on vehicle capacity and booking type). The guide will introduce the day’s plan and head out in search of wildlife.

What happens:

Drive slowly through the park/reserve
Guide looks for fresh tracks and signs
Stop frequently for animal sightings
Guide shares information about behavior, ecology, tracking
Opportunities for photography
Toilet breaks if needed (designated areas)

What you might see: Predators returning from night hunts, animals becoming active after the cool night, stunning sunrise, incredible morning light for photography, fresh tracks

9:30-10:00 AM – Mid-Morning Break

Depending on wildlife activity, your guide might stop at a scenic spot for a “bush breakfast” or coffee break. Some lodges send out a full breakfast setup in the bush, while others simply offer coffee/tea and snacks.

This is a great time to:

Stretch your legs
Use portable facilities if available
Have snacks
Chat with your guide about the morning’s sightings
Download photos from your camera

10:30 AM-12:00 PM – Return to Camp

You’ll typically return to camp/lodge mid-to-late morning as the day heats up and animals seek shade.

12:30 PM – Lunch

A substantial meal—usually three courses or a buffet. Sample menus might include salads, grilled meats, pasta dishes, vegetarian options, and desserts. Lunches are leisurely affairs designed for relaxation.

1:00 PM – 4:00 PM – Midday Rest Time

This is YOUR time. Animals rest during the hottest part of the day, and you should too. Most guests use this time to:

Nap in their tent/room
Swim in the pool
Read on their veranda
Review and edit photos
Write in journals
Get a massage (at luxury camps)
Watch animals at nearby waterholes from the lodge
Catch up on emails if Wi-Fi available

Important: Don’t feel guilty about resting! Safari days are early and long. You need this downtime, and you’ll enjoy evening drives more if you’re refreshed.

3:30-4:00 PM – Afternoon Tea

Light snacks before the evening game drive: tea, coffee, cookies, cakes, savory snacks.

4:00-4:30 PM – Evening Game Drive Departs

Similar to the morning drive but in reverse—you’ll search for wildlife as animals become active again in the cooler temperatures.

What you might see:

Predators waking up and preparing to hunt
Herbivores emerging to feed
Spectacular golden hour light for photography
Increased animal activity as temperatures drop

6:30-7:00 PM – Sundowner Stop

One of safari’s most magical moments: your guide will stop at a scenic viewpoint as the sun sets. Camp staff will have set up drinks and snacks (gin and tonics are traditional). You’ll sip cocktails while watching the sun disappear over the African landscape.

This is the perfect time for:

Taking in the moment
Toasting to the day’s adventures
Watching the sky change colors
Relaxing before dinner

7:00-8:00 PM – Return to Camp (Night Drive Optional)

If you’re in a national park, you must return to camp by sunset (usually around 6:30-7:00 PM depending on season). If you’re in a private conservancy, your guide might continue with spotlights to find nocturnal animals.

8:00-8:30 PM – Freshen Up

Quick time to shower, change for dinner, and relax.

8:30-9:30 PM – Dinner

Dinner is typically a social, leisurely affair. You’ll often eat together with other guests (unless you’ve booked a private camp), sharing stories of the day’s sightings. Dinners are usually 3-4 courses and can be served:

In the main dining area
Under the stars (bush dinner)
Around a campfire (boma dinner)
In private on your veranda (honeymoon/special request)

Sample menu: Soup or salad starter, roasted meats or fish with vegetables and starches, dessert, cheese board, coffee/tea

10:00 PM – Evening Wind-Down

After dinner, many camps gather around the fire for drinks and conversation. Guides often share stories about wildlife encounters and African bush life.

Bedtime: Most guests turn in around 10:00-11:00 PM since wake-up calls come early.

Security note: Most camps have staff who will escort you to your tent at night with flashlights, as wildlife sometimes passes through camps. Never walk alone in the dark

Essential Vaccinations and Health Requirements

Let’s address the medical and health preparation you need for your safari.

Required Vaccinations

Yellow Fever:

Required if: Traveling from or through yellow fever endemic countries (most of South America, parts of Africa)
Not required if: Traveling directly from North America, Europe, Australia, or Asia
Where required: Kenya and Tanzania require proof if coming from endemic areas
Cost: $150-250
When to get it: At least 10 days before travel (certificate valid for life)
Our advice: Even if not required, consider it if traveling to multiple African countries

Strongly Recommended Vaccinations

Hepatitis A:

Recommended for all travelers
Transmitted through contaminated food/water
Two-dose series (second dose 6-12 months after first)
Cost: $60-100 per dose

Typhoid:

Recommended for most travelers
Transmitted through contaminated food/water
Oral vaccine or injection available
Cost: $80-120

Hepatitis B:

Recommended for longer stays or if medical treatment might be needed
Three-dose series
Cost: $50-100 per dose

Routine Vaccinations (ensure you’re current):

Tetanus/Diphtheria/Pertussis (Tdap)
Measles/Mumps/Rubella (MMR)
Chickenpox (Varicella)
Polio
Influenza

Malaria Prevention

Most safari destinations in East Africa are in malaria zones. Prevention is critical.

Malaria Prophylaxis Options:

Malarone (Atovaquone/Proguanil):

Most popular with travelers
Take 1-2 days before, during, and 7 days after travel
Fewer side effects than alternatives
Cost: $100-150 for 3-week supply

Doxycycline:

Budget-friendly option
Take daily starting 1-2 days before through 4 weeks after
Can cause sun sensitivity
Cost: $20-40

Mefloquine (Lariam):

Weekly dosing
Longer history of use
More side effects reported
Cost: $50-100

Malaria-Free Safari Options: If you prefer to avoid malaria medication:

South Africa: Madikwe, Pilanesberg (malaria-free)
South Africa: Parts of Eastern Cape
Namibia: Most areas low-risk
Botswana: Winter months (May-September) lower risk

Our recommendation: Take malaria prophylaxis. Malaria is serious, and prevention is straightforward with modern medications.

Additional Health Precautions

Insect Repellent:

DEET-based (30-50% concentration)
Apply to exposed skin, especially dawn and dusk
Permethrin spray for clothing

Sun Protection:

High SPF sunscreen (50+)
Wide-brimmed hat
Sunglasses
Lip balm with SPF

Traveler’s Diarrhea:

Pack Imodium and/or antibiotics (prescribed by doctor)
Drink only bottled or purified water
Avoid raw vegetables in questionable establishments
Lodge/camp food is generally safe

Motion Sickness:

Safari roads can be bumpy
Bring medication if prone to motion sickness
Sit in front seats if possible

Travel Insurance

Essential coverage includes:

Medical evacuation (critical in remote areas)
Trip cancellation/interruption
Medical expenses
Lost/damaged luggage
24/7 emergency assistance

Recommended providers:

World Nomads
Travel Guard
Allianz
IMG Global

Cost: $100-300 for comprehensive coverage

Pro tip: Ensure your policy covers adventure activities and safari-related incidents.

Pre-Travel Medical Consultation

Schedule an appointment with a travel medicine clinic 4-6 weeks before departure. They’ll:

Review your medical history
Recommend appropriate vaccinations
Prescribe malaria prophylaxis
Provide country-specific health advice
Give you vaccination certificates

Find a clinic: CDC’s travel clinic locator or International Society of Travel Medicine (ISTM)

What to Pack in Your Medical Kit

Prescribed malaria prophylaxis
General pain relievers (ibuprofen, acetaminophen)
Anti-diarrheal medication
Antihistamines for allergies
Band-aids and antiseptic cream
Motion sickness medication
Any personal prescription medications (bring extras)
Insect repellent
Sunscreen
Hand sanitizer
Electrolyte packets (for dehydration)

Medical Facilities in Safari Destinations

Kenya/Tanzania:

Nairobi and Arusha have good private hospitals
Remote areas have limited facilities
Medical evacuation insurance is crucial
Flying Doctors service available (membership recommended)

South Africa:

Excellent medical facilities comparable to Western standards
Private hospitals in all major cities
Less concern about emergency care

Botswana/Namibia:

Good facilities in capitals
Remote areas require evacuation for serious issues

What to Pack for Your First Safari

Packing for safari is different from typical vacations. Here’s everything you need to know.

The Golden Rules of Safari Packing

Pack light: Most fly-in safaris have 15 kg (33 lb) limits in soft-sided bags
Neutral colors: Khaki, beige, olive, brown (avoid bright colors and black/navy which attract tsetse flies)
Layers: Mornings are cold (10-15°C/50-59°F), afternoons hot (25-30°C/77-86°F)
Think practical, not fashionable

Essential Clothing

Tops:

3-4 neutral-colored t-shirts/short-sleeve shirts
2 long-sleeve shirts (sun/insect protection)
1 fleece jacket or sweater
1 windbreaker or light rain jacket
1 warm jacket for early morning drives

Bottoms:

2-3 pairs comfortable pants (zip-off safari pants ideal)
1-2 pairs shorts
1 pair warmer pants/jeans for cold mornings

Footwear:

Comfortable closed-toe shoes for game drives (sneakers/hiking shoes)
Sandals for camp
One pair lightweight hiking boots (if doing walking safaris)

Accessories:

Wide-brimmed hat or baseball cap
Sunglasses (polarized recommended)
Lightweight scarf/buff (dust protection)
Warm beanie for cold mornings

Undergarments/Sleepwear:

5-7 pairs underwear
3-4 pairs socks
Sports bra for bumpy roads
Comfortable sleepwear

Note: Most lodges offer complimentary laundry service, so you can pack less and have clothes washed.

Toiletries & Personal Items

Basics:

Toothbrush/toothpaste
Deodorant
Shampoo/conditioner (many lodges provide)
Soap/body wash (many lodges provide)
Razor/shaving cream
Feminine hygiene products
Glasses/contact lenses + solutions
Prescription medications

Sun & Insect Protection:

Sunscreen (SPF 50+, reef-safe recommended)
After-sun lotion/aloe vera
Insect repellent (DEET 30-50%)
Permethrin spray for clothing
Lip balm with SPF

Optional but Nice:

Moisturizer (dry climate)
Face wipes/cleansing towelettes
Hand sanitizer
Baby powder (prevents chafing on bumpy drives)
Tissues/wet wipes

Documents & Money

Essential Documents:

Passport (valid 6+ months beyond travel)
Visa confirmation (e-Visa printout)
Travel insurance documents
Vaccination certificate (especially yellow fever if required)
Flight confirmations
Safari booking confirmations
Emergency contact information
Copies of all documents (keep separate from originals)

Money:

US dollars (crisp, new bills for visa/tips/purchases)
Credit card (Visa/Mastercard widely accepted)
Small amount of local currency for tips
Money belt or secure pouch

How much cash: $500-800 USD for tips, souvenirs, and incidentals on a week-long safari

Health & Safety Items

Malaria prophylaxis
Basic first aid kit
Pain relievers
Anti-diarrheal medication
Antihistamines
Motion sickness pills
Hand sanitizer
Face masks (some lodges still require)
Prescription glasses/contacts backup

Optional But Recommended

Journal and pen
Field guide books (birds, mammals)
Dry bag for dusty/rainy conditions
Ziplock bags (protect electronics from dust)
Earplugs (for early wake-ups if light sleeper)
Eye mask
Reusable water bottle
Snacks (granola bars, nuts)
Duct tape (fixes everything)
Small daypack for day trips

Ready to Book Your Dream Safari?

African Trails Expeditions specializes in creating personalized safari experiences that match your budget, timeframe, and interests

Why Book with African Trails Expeditions?

✓ Expert Local Knowledge: Our guides have decades of combined experience in both Kenya and Tanzania
✓ Flexible Itineraries: We customize every safari to your specific interests and budget
✓ Small Group Guarantee: Maximum 6 guests per vehicle for optimal viewing
✓ Exclusive Partnerships: Access to premium lodges and conservancy camps
✓ 24/7 Support: On-ground assistance throughout your journey
✓ Sustainable Tourism: We support local communities and conservation efforts