Discover Africa

Find your perfect accommodation in Africa.

Get inspired and find the perfect safari destinations, best reserves and most beautiful accommodation for your unforgettable safari.

safarica.com supports you online with good planning for your perfect safari - from a short stay to a big trip.

With our integrated real-time booking system with availability query, you get immediate certainty and can book directly.

Simply plan your unforgettable trip to Africa yourself.

The new safarica.com trip planner allows you to plan your entire trip from arrival to departure - based on sample itineraries or completely individually.

safarica travel-planer

Save now: 31 the latest offers

5 Crown Guest House

Are you a business traveler, student, in-between h

5 Crown Guest House

MONTH - TO - MONTH ACCOMMODATION

Old Mill Lodge, Working Ostrich Farm & Restaurant

Last minute Room only

Old Mill Lodge, Working Ostrich Farm & Restaurant

Shikwari Nature Reserve

Book 2 nights midweek (Mon - Thurs) Receive a 12%

Shikwari Nature Reserve

4 Nights Boat & Kruger Safaris (2024)

Golfer’s

Stay in one of our well appointed self catering un

Long Term Accommodation

Bentley on the Beach

Phone us if you need a room at the last minute and

Bentley on the Beach

LAST Minute Craze!

Bethesda Mountain Lodge

Book your 2 day stay and pay 15% LESS!!

Bethesda Mountain Lodge

Pensioners Discount

Sea View - Zum Sperrbebiet

Book 3 nights and get 50% off for the 3rd night

Sea View - Zum Sperrbebiet

Summer Special

39 Ridge Estate

Book for a week and get a special rate!

39 Ridge Estate

SADC Sep/Oct 2023

Suites on 74

Book for 5 days or more and qualify for the Long S

Suites on 74

Long Stay Special

Otium Oasis Glamping & Camping

Spring time Special with 35% off bookable between

Otium Oasis Glamping & Camping

Weekend Horse Riding Farm Stay

Marion Lodge

BOOK AND STAY ON ANY DAY BETWEEN SUNDAY AND WEDNES

Marion Lodge

NEW WEEK SPECIAL

Meerhof Lodge

Two nights stay in our Bayview Rooms *Breakfast fo

Meerhof Lodge

Birthday Package!!!

Suma's Rest

Discover the tranquil charm of Sumas Rest, nestled

Suma's Rest

Citrus Haven Escape: 30% Off Your Stay!

THE FARMHOUSE BOUTIQUE GUESTHOUSE

Book your stay with us before proceeding to Etosha

THE FARMHOUSE BOUTIQUE GUESTHOUSE

ENJOY STAY AT THE FARMHOUSE 2024

The View

book 3 days and get 20% discount

3 day special

South Africa

South Africa

The Rebublic of South Africa is a 1220000 km² state at the southern tip of Afri...

Namibia

The Rebublic of Namibia is a 824292 km² state in south-western Africa on the At...

Kenya

The Rebublic of Kenya is a 582646 km² state in eastern Africa on the Indian Oce...

Tanzania

The United Rebublic of Tanzania is a 945087 km² state in eastern Africa on the ...

The perfect safari destinations

Africa is huge, offers unique landscapes and breathtaking wildlife. Every country is different and has its own charm. Find the perfect country for a safari in Africa with safarica.com.

Most Popular Safari Reserves

Africa offers plenty of opportunities for a wide variety of safari experiences in the numerous national parks and private game reserves. Find the most popular safari destinations in Africa with safarica.com.

Kruger

The park is the largest and best known in southern

Nairobi

Nairobi National Park is only about 7 km from the

Casela Nature Park

Casela Nature Park

Pilanesberg

Pilanesberg

The park is located about 150 kilometres northwest

Mikumi

The park is located in central Tanzania about 280

Addo Elephant

Addo Elephant

The Addo area stretches from the Karoo Desert in t

Tsavo East

Tsavo East and Tsavo West together form one of the

Lake Nakuru

Lake Nakuru

The national park is located about 160 km northwes

Aquila Private Game Reserve

Aquila Private Game Reserve

Augrabies Falls

Augrabies Falls

The park is located 120 km west of Upington and st

Golden Gate Highlands

Golden Gate Highlands

The park is situated on the border with Lesotho an

Etosha

The unique Etosha Park is situated in the northern

Amboseli

Amboseli is located in Kenya's southwest and borde

Hluhluwe-Imfolozi

Hluhluwe-Imfolozi

Hluhluwe-iMfolozi National Park is located 280 km

Black River Gorges

Black River Gorges

A selection of safari lodges.

With well over 1560 accommodations in 11 countries, safarica.com is one of the leading brokers for safaris in Africa. Here you will find a selection of excellent accommodation so that you don't lose track of everything.

lodge

Botlierskop Private Game Reserve

lodge

Kalahari Anib Lodge, Gondwana Collection Namibia

lodge

Dans country hotel

lodge

River Crossing Lodge

lodge

Hornbill Lodge and Legends Restaurant

lodge

Emdoneni Lodge with Cheetah Project

lodge

Hakunamatata Lodge And Health Spa

lodge

Gwahumbe Game and Spa

lodge

Kosi Bay Lodge

lodge

Sabie River Bush Lodge

lodge

Crystal Lagoon Lodge

lodge

Reef Resort

lodge

Mjejane River Lodge

lodge

Acacia Lodge

Do you still not know where the journey is going?

We'll help you discover the wild side of Africa.

Newsletter subscribe to.

Just sign up for our newsletter - we'll send you the best deals on safaris in Africa.

  • Special offers
  • Exclusive content
  • Exciting tips

Angebot

We love Africa.

safarica.com is a source of inspiration, planning aid and booking platform all in one. Here you can find the perfect accommodation for your unforgettable safari in Africa.

Why book through us?

There are many reasons why you should book your next trip through safarica.com. Discover how we will make your safari in Africa unforgettable.

How would you like to share ?

Login or register, welcome to safarica.com.

Africa safari tours

Intrepid travellers in safe viewing jeeps watch wildebeest cross the road in Ngorongoro Crater

Take a walk on the wild side on an African safari.

The word “safari” means “journey” in Swahili. And a safari in  Africa  is all about the journey. While seeing a leopard munch on a freshly caught gazelle or spying a curious lion cub venture away from its mother’s protective embrace will be highlights of your trip, you’ll discover the journey is as much a part of your trip as the destination.

The road-trip games you play with your new travel mates, the feeling of the wind (and maybe a little dust) in your hair when you’re traveling down long, winding roads, and the young Maasai boy who waved at you as you passed him along the road will stay with you long after you return.

Let's create an exclusive trip for your group.

Go on safari through Kruger National Park, one of the largest game reserves in  Southern Africa . This massive park is one of the premier safari spots in all of Africa and for good reason; it’s home to over 500 bird species, 100 species of reptile and 150 mammal species, including the Big Five and the endangered African wild dog.

Venture deep into the steamy jungles of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest in search of the rare mountain gorilla. With a local guide to lead you, you’ll trek into the forest to spend one unforgettable hour watching and hanging out with a family of gorillas. A close encounter with these gentle giants is an extraordinary African experience that will always stay with you.

The only thing more magical than witnessing the great wildebeest migration across the Serengeti? Seeing it from the sky in a hot air balloon. As the herds of wildebeest and thousands of other animals travel from Serengeti National Park to the greener pastures of the Masai Mara National Reserve, you can watch their journey and enjoy incredible views from a unique perspective.

The Okavango Delta has a unique system of waterways that are home to an immense array of wildlife. The best way to explore it is in a mokoro, a traditional dugout canoe. Visit in May to September, when animals are confined to small islands created by the annual flood, making it easy to spot great herds of elephant and antelope, hippos, crocodiles, lions, cheetahs and more. 

Filter by rating

Vic Falls to Kruger

Premium Rwanda & Gorillas of Uganda

Premium Kenya

Essential East Africa

On our safari trips you’ll stay in billion-star accommodation. That’s our way of saying you’re sleeping under the night sky, camping in the great outdoors. On our Basix and sections of Original trips, you’ll stay in two-person canvas tents that our crew will help you set up. And on our Comfort trips, you’ll be staying in permanent tented camps and lodges (think glamping instead of camping).

Campsite facilities can sometimes be basic, but wherever possible, we make sure there are Western-style toilets and warm water available. But you’ll find it’s worth sacrificing a warm shower or two when you’re waking up to sunrise over the Masai Mara.

On our safari trips, your main mode of transport is an overland truck, a purpose-built vehicle made for driving through Africa’s winding, and sometimes bumpy, country roads. While the trucks don’t have air conditioning, they do have sliding windows which let in the breeze and make it even easier to take spectacular snaps of the local wildlife. The trucks are also equipped with power outlets to charge your camera, phone and other devices on the go.

For more info on our overland trucks, see our  Africa overland page .

When is the best time to go on safari?

Generally speaking, January, February and June to October are the best times to go on safari in Africa. This is the dry season, so animals tend to come out into more open spaces in search of water, making them easier to spot. However, you’ll be able to spot animals all year round and you’ll enjoy fewer crowds if you travel outside peak season.

Read more about the best time to go on safari .

Where is the best place to go on safari?

The best place to go on safari depends on what kind of animals you’d like to see and what other activities you’d like to do in destination. We offer safaris to some of the best safari destinations in eastern and southern Africa, like Kenya, Tanzania, South Africa, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Namibia and more.

Read more about how to choose your ideal African safari . 

Am I guaranteed to see animals on safari?

While we can’t guarantee you’ll spot the Big 5, you’d have to be profoundly unlucky to see no animals at all. On our trips, you’ll explore some of the best game parks and national reserves in the world. These protected areas are filled with a huge variety of different species and your expert driver and local leader will help you spot animals.

What are the “Big 5”?

The “Big 5” used to refer to the five big game animals that were the most difficult to hunt. Now that most shooting is done on a camera, the Big 5 are the most exciting animals to spot while on safari: the lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant, and Cape buffalo.

What should I pack for safari?

Loose, light clothing in neutral colours is the best attire for a safari (dark colours will get hot in the sun and can attract the Tsetse fly). You’ll also want a sun hat, some good walking shoes, a camera, sunscreen and bug spray. For more details, check out our  ultimate Africa packing guide . 

What type of food will be served on safari?

On our Basix trips, you’ll have a cook traveling with you while you are on safari who will whip up a variety of local flavors and Western-style dishes. Along your route, your cook will stop to purchase fresh, locally sourced food for your meals. You can expect a variety of things for breakfast like fruit, eggs, toast and cereal; lunch is often sandwiches and salads; and dinner is usually a hearty meal like pasta, curry or a BBQ.

On our Original and Comfort trips there will be more meals at camps and lodges along the way. No matter what you’re craving, you definitely will not be going hungry on safari.

What are the toilets and showers like on safari?

Most of the permanent tented camps will have a private bathroom with flushing toilets and showers with warm water. 

Many of the campsites we stay at have communal facilities with flushing toilets and showers with warm water. However, in some of the more remote areas, there may only be basic facilities (toilets and cold running water). 

Can you accommodate accessibility requirements on your safari tours?

We are committed to making travel accessible to everyone, so we will work with you to assess whether you will be able to complete an existing itinerary, or whether we will be able to make reasonable adjustments to meet your needs before you book. Please see our  accessible travel page  for more information. 

What is internet and phone access like on safari?

Some of our hotels and campsites will have Wi-Fi, however Internet and phone access may be limited in more remote areas. But you won’t miss it when you’re watching a pride of lions prowl through long grass or enjoying a drink around the campfire with your group. 

This world and the animals that call it home are precious, and we believe it’s our responsibility to help preserve them. We do not include or condone any activities that exploit animals on our safari trips, including hunting, feeding or interacting with animals in any way. We believe that wild animals should be observed in the wild, from a respectful distance. 

Some tips for being a wildlife-friendly traveler include never buying animal products, not participating in activities that include contact with the animals, and not including location tags on social media posts (some poachers have gone high-tech and use social media to track rare animals’ locations).

Read more about our  Animal Welfare Policy here . 

Best places to travel in February

Serengeti or Masai Mara? Which national park should you visit?

Chobe vs Okavango: Which one should you choose?

Tanzania or South Africa? Which safari destination is best?

17 photos of what it’s really like on a Kenya safari

20 photos that will make you want to book a trip to Botswana immediately

5 reasons why your next family holiday should be to Botswana

7 things you need to know about an adventure in Namibia, according to a local leader

National Geographic content straight to your inbox—sign up for our popular newsletters here

Safari experience in a lodge, tented camp

Everything you need to know before booking your first African safari

​For many, a safari represents the optimal escape and lifelong travel dream. If you’re going to invest in turning this dream into reality, there are some things worth considering. Plus, we recommend five incredible wildlife itineraries for 2023.

From the first waft of dewy morning air to the gentle owl hoots that drift into camp after dark, there’s a satisfying natural rhythm to a day on safari in Africa. Even if you’re not normally an early riser, you’ll quickly fall into the routine of pre-dawn starts, lazy lunchtimes, active afternoons and mellow evenings, making the most of the best hours both for wildlife-watching and for chilling out. Deep at night, if you’re lucky, you may hear the distant whoop of a hyena, the rasping call of a leopard or the bassy roar of a lion.

But more often than not, you’ll sleep soundly, drunk on fresh air. Soon after you wake, you’ll head out into the wild, eager to discover what the day will deliver. Perhaps you’ll find yourself inching up on some rhinos, watching boisterous elephants bathe in a waterhole or spotting the youngest, cutest members of a mighty big cat dynasty.

If this sounds like the kind of escape you’ve been craving, but you’re puzzling over possible itineraries, what’s the best way to choose?

Green means go

While every luxury safari offers unforgettable wildlife encounters, there are plenty of options to consider. High-end African trips and settings vary hugely in their atmosphere and style.

Some itineraries, for example, are much greener than others. If you’re passionate about nature, you’ll want to make ethical choices, mindful of climate change and biodiversity, perhaps by minimising your time in the air. While every long-haul trip has a high carbon footprint, you can limit your safari’s impact by choosing a destination near an international airport and sharing a vehicle rather than continuing by taking domestic flights.

With superb wildlife-watching opportunities within driving distance, Nairobi makes an excellent starting point for a low-airmiles luxury safari. “You could head for the stunning mountains and waterfalls of the Aberdare range, where lions hunt giant forest hogs”, says Kenya specialist Richard Trillo of Expert Africa. “The tree-dotted plains of the Maasai Mara, which host East Africa’s annual Great Migration, are also within reach,” Richard adds.

There are other ways to dial down the net impact of your trip without compromising on quality, however. While carbon offset schemes can help compensate for your emissions, for a more targeted approach, you could book your trip through a specialist safari operator that has established working partnerships with African conservation charities.  

“We’re proud to support South Africa’s all-female Black Mamba Anti-Poaching Unit, and Greenpop, a non-profit Sub-Saharan forest restoration and urban greening organisation,” says Marcelo Novais of luxury operator Ker and Downey Africa.  

“We give all our clients the opportunity to donate to these worthy causes, since leaving a positive legacy is one of our core values,” he adds. Other deserving organisations include African Parks, the African Wildlife Foundation, Tusk and the World Land Trust.  

Another effective way of maximising the benefits of your trip is to choose lodges that go the extra mile in their vicinity, doing more for environmental protection, community partnerships and rural development than   merely covering park fees and basic wages. In Tanzania, the Elewana Arusha Coffee Lodge invites guests to visit the craft project they support, Shanga, where locals with disabilities upcycle glass, textiles and fishing wire into cute elephant cushions, jewellery and clothing.

When it comes to shortlisting properties, membership of Ecotourism Kenya, Responsible Tourism Tanzania, Fair Trade Tourism and the Global Sustainable Tourism Council are generally useful indicators.

Settling in

Once you’ve arrived in the bush, what will your surroundings feel like? Anyone who’s cautious about camping in the wilderness will be relieved to discover that most top-end operators put their guests at ease by focusing on creature comforts: cool drinks, gourmet dining, indulgently appointed private bathrooms and sumptuous beds, for example. As a rule, their staff — from the head guide to the housekeepers — are superb at their jobs.  

That said, there are significant differences between, on the one hand, intimate, minimalist camps with just a handful of canvas tents and, at the other extreme, sizeable lodges featuring swimming pools, gyms and perhaps even a spa, photography hide, editing suite, research centre, library and observatory. It’s a matter of weighing up how close to nature you’d like to feel — hearing all those thrilling sounds in the night, for example — against the range of facilities and creature comforts you’d like to enjoy.

When deciding, honest opinions from people who know the properties well can be invaluable. “Our safari specialists always have detailed conversations with our clients to understand their preferences and offer advice”, says Liberty Gilmour of Audley Travel. “Conventional aircon, for example, is rarely essential: Zambia in May and high-altitude destinations such as Ngorongoro can be quite cool, particularly at night. If it’s hot, natural ventilation may be sufficient, but many camps also have solar-powered cooling systems.”

Whether opulent, nostalgic or quirky, surroundings that suit your aesthetic aspirations can elevate your experience. The family heirlooms that decorate Camp Jabulani in South Africa’s Kapama Reserve, for example, create a uniquely cosy atmosphere, while Xigera Safari Lodge in Botswana’s Okavango Delta is so proud of its collection of original pieces by contemporary African artists and artisans that staff offer art and design tours of the premises. To strike a contemporary note, Loisaba Lodo Springs in Kenya’s Loisaba Conservancy has rooms dotted with hand-stitched West African textiles and elegant upcycled Edwardian furniture.

Expedition Camp for exploring the local wildlife

Peaceful days

Almost every safari programme revolves around guided excursions called game drives, a name dating back to the days of Big Five hunting trips, but the style of the vehicles you ride in isn’t discussed as much as perhaps it should be. While some outfits settle for basic open-sided 4x4s, others invest in supremely comfortable, easy-access vehicles with charging points, dustproof storage space and a fridge. If you’re a keen photographer, top quality private vehicles are a must. Electric safari vehicles offer a particularly smooth ride; while still rare, they’re the future, and are starting to catch on.

Ila Safari Lodge in Zambia’s Kafue National Park offers the rare luxury of total peace and quiet. Founder Vincent Kouwenhoven, who has pioneered electric transport at Ila and its sister lodges in Zambia and Malawi, explains: “Our love for Africa led us to develop technologies that enable guests to experience the bush in near-silent, pollution-free vehicles, charged by our own solar panels. It’s an ecologically conscious way to watch wildlife and very calming, too. Instead of the engine, you hear birdsong.”

Some safaris also promise near-solitude in a vast natural landscape — an intoxicating feeling. One way to dodge the crowds is to travel during low season, the dates of which vary from location to location; alternatively, you could choose private reserves where the only vehicles you’ll see will be those of your fellow guests. As well as providing daytime activities, guides may offer night drives, using spotlights to search for nocturnal activity, such as birds roosting or lions stalking their prey.

For the ultimate in exclusivity, it’s possible to book an entire camp or lodge, with the staff handcrafting everything to your precise specifications, from wake-up times to the cocktails and canapes. According to Ash Jarvis of Best of South Africa Travel, exclusive-use properties work particularly well for mixed-generation families: “With their private game drives, multiple living areas, private pool and the undivided attention of the whole staff, including the chefs (fussy eaters welcome), they eliminate stress and ensure that nobody has to compromise. That’s what good family holidays are all about.”

The ultimate adventure

If serenity is your scene, you may be dreaming of floating over herds of zebras and wildebeest in a hot-air balloon, or wandering across the savannah on a bushwalk or cycle ride. The most interesting safaris offer a mixed programme of imaginative guided activities such as these, enlivening the days with little surprises: picnics in beauty spots, perhaps, or lantern-lit barbecues.  

The possibilities depend, to a large extent, on your choice of location. In Kenya’s northern conservancies, for example, you could explore the semi-desert by camel, while in Rwanda or Uganda, the activity you probably won’t want to miss is venturing into the depths of the rainforest on foot for a precious one-hour audience with mountain gorillas.

On a gorilla trek, you’ll be guided by rangers at the top of their game — a hallmark of an excellent safari. A knowledgeable, communicative guide can transform any trip, keeping you safe, entertained and intrigued.

“The inside track is what you really want, whether that’s in guiding, photography or conservation”, says Will Bolsover of Natural World Safaris. “In-depth knowledge leads you beneath the surface, for true insights into how conservation works, how wildlife benefits and how you can contribute.”

Since quality time with experts is one of the ultimate luxuries you can enjoy on safari, some top-end safaris, particularly in Kenya and South Africa, include a philanthropic element, whereby in exchange for a substantial donation to a conservation fund, you gain access to specialists in the field, perhaps even helping collar predators or collecting DNA samples from juvenile rhinos. Conservation safari companies such as Great Plains and AWF Safaris can assist with this. There’s no better way to start unlocking the mysteries of the African wilderness.

A lioness is observed by a group on a game drive

Five luxury safari trips in Africa to try in 2023 and beyond  

1. low-carbon luxury in kenya.

After a night at Nairobi’s fabled Giraffe Manor, travel overland to Solio Lodge in the Central Highlands to explore Kenya’s oldest rhino conservation sanctuary, then continue to Sala’s Camp, in one of the least-visited corners of the Maasai Mara. Eight days from £8,400 with Expert Africa. expertafrica.com

2. Take to the skies in Tanzania

Flip from park to park in style on a SkySafari, travelling by private plane and touching down at luxurious Elewana Collection properties. This classic circuit takes in Arusha, Tarangire, Ngorongoro and the Serengeti, for blockbuster wildlife-watching. Ten days from £8,300 with Sky Safari. skysafari.com

3. Family adventures in South Africa

South Africa has a host of prospects to suit muti-generational families. Delightful safari properties such as Morukuru River House team well with Cape Town, the Cape Winelands and the Garden Route. Fourteen days from £4,500 with Best of South Africa Travel. bestofsouthafricatravel.com

4. Clock the Big Five in the safari heartlands

To experience some of southern Africa’s most exclusive wilderness retreats, string together Bushmans Kloof in South Africa’s Cederberg region, Sossusvlei Desert Lodge in Namibia, DumaTau in Linyanti and Xigera in the Okavango Delta. Twelve days from £24,797 with Beyond Green. staybeyondgreen.com

5. Meet mountain gorillas in Rwanda

Nothing can prepare you for the surge of emotions you’ll feel when, after an exhilarating trek, you first encounter a family of gorillas in the rainforest. Combine your hike with game drives in Rwanda’s Big Five national park, Akagera. Eight days from £7,493 with Jacada Travel. jacadatravel.com  

Published in the 2022 edition of National Geographic Traveller (UK) The Luxury Collection

Follow us on social media

Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

Related Topics

  • ADVENTURE TRAVEL

You May Also Like

booking safari

Affordable gorilla encounters in Uganda's Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

booking safari

How I got the shot: Ben Pipe on coming face to face with a lion

Become a subscriber and support our award-winning editorial features, videos, photography, and more—for as little as $2/mo.

booking safari

Free roam safari: a self-guided campervanning trip through South Africa & Eswatini

booking safari

5 game drive alternatives, from cycling to horse-riding

booking safari

Are South Africa’s captive lions inbred?

booking safari

Who buys lion bones? Inside South Africa’s skeleton trade

booking safari

4 incredible places in urgent need of conservation

  • Environment
  • Paid Content

History & Culture

  • History & Culture
  • Terms of Use
  • Privacy Policy
  • Your US State Privacy Rights
  • Children's Online Privacy Policy
  • Interest-Based Ads
  • About Nielsen Measurement
  • Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information
  • Nat Geo Home
  • Attend a Live Event
  • Book a Trip
  • Inspire Your Kids
  • Shop Nat Geo
  • Visit the D.C. Museum
  • Learn About Our Impact
  • Support Our Mission
  • Advertise With Us
  • Customer Service
  • Renew Subscription
  • Manage Your Subscription
  • Work at Nat Geo
  • Sign Up for Our Newsletters
  • Contribute to Protect the Planet

Copyright © 1996-2015 National Geographic Society Copyright © 2015-2024 National Geographic Partners, LLC. All rights reserved

booking safari

The Ultimate Guide to Booking An African Safari

  • March 15, 2019
  • September 23, 2020
  • International Parks , South Africa

So many people have told us that booking an African safari is top on their travel bucket list since our February 2019 trip. Who doesn’t dream of long sunny days in a Jeep and up-close encounters with lions and elephants? But one thing we also have heard is how stressful booking an African safari is (and how it’s getting in the way of those BIG vacation dreams!)

If that sounds like you, then you’ve come to the right place. Today we’re sharing our “Ultimate Guide to Booking an African Safari” to help get those planning juices flowing towards the trip of a lifetime.

We want to share our experience booking two different types of safaris in South Africa and the list of questions we asked to make sure we got the exact safari experience we were looking for.

So. Let’s get started.

Male Lion - Kambaku Safari Lodge

Questions to Ask Before Booking an African Safari

Like any trip we plan, we started booking our safari by spending a few minutes brainstorming the answers to these questions. It helped guide our safari search and narrow down the choices to our perfect safari.

What animals do you want to see on safari?

Always dream of seeing giraffes wandering the open plains? Get up close with a meerkat? One of the first questions you should ask yourself as you start the planning process is what types of animals you’d like the chance to see. Not all of the famous African wildlife live in all areas. While there are no guarantees (it’s wildlife after all) you’ll see a certain animal on safari, you need to travel where those animals live.

Our best example is a black rhinoceros. Let’s say not only is it your dream to go on safari, but it’s also your dream to see a black rhino. Black rhinos are extremely rare and endangered. If your heart is set on seeing one, it only makes sense to book your safari where the best chances are of seeing a rhino. It would be devastating to show up for your trip of a lifetime in Kenya, only to find out you should have booked in South Africa (where 40% of the world’s black rhinos currently live).

Spend a few minutes jotting down the types of animals you want the best chance of seeing on safari.

Giraffe - Kruger National Park

How much time do you have?

Safari’s come in all shapes and sizes. There are options to book as short as a 2-hour night drive and options to book for 10 days or longer. While we recommend at minimum 3 days, we know that might not be in the cards for everyone. We found 4-5 days to be a sweet-spot, allowing for best chances of seeing more wildlife and giving us a few extra days for less-than-perfect weather.

It’s also good to note that for most Americans, booking an African safari means booking at least a 7 hour time change. When you’re setting out your travel days, make sure you consider your own tolerance for jet lag and how much time you’ll need on the ground to adjust before hopping in an open-air safari vehicle.

Grab a calendar. Mark out when you’d like to go on safari and how many days you think would be the best fit for you and your group.

Male Elephant - Kruger National Park

How do you want to see the animals ?

It may sound like an odd question, but there are lots of different options for having a unique and personalized wildlife experience on safari. It’s important to spend some time imagining what your perfect safari looks like to help narrow down the options. Here are some questions to get the conversation started:

  • Answer the question: “When I think about an African safari, these three words come to mind: __________, ___________, and ____________.
  • Do you want to see animals as close as possible, or would you prefer to keep a bit of distance?
  • Would you rather see animals during the day or at night?
  • Is it your dream to drive alone through the bush, seeking solitude and the chance to spot wildlife on your own? Or would you prefer to be with a guide and a group of others to enjoy the sights with?
  • Would you like to drive in an open vehicle to see wildlife, or be able to view from a comfortable platform?

Ask everyone in your group to brainstorm how they imagine seeing animals on safari. Decide which 2-3 features are your biggest priority. Keep them handy as you research choices.

booking safari

Where do you want to eat and sleep?

Another big thing that can separate safari experiences is meals and lodging options. Booking an African safari is a lot like buying a car (only you have to choose it from a different continent with just Trip Advisor and a 2″ photo on Google images). Either way you can choose the very basic model, or you can order up all the bells and whistles you can possibly imagine.

Have a firm list of what amenities are necessary for your group and what you could live without before you get a sales pitch from a safari booking agent. It is the best way to make sure you purchase exactly what you expect and are comfortable while you stay. Use these questions to brainstorm your list:

  • Do you need a private bathroom or is a private bedroom with a shared ‘dormitory’-style bathroom okay?
  • Does your group need access to wi-fi or cell phone service at all times or is community wi-fi suitable?
  • Will you need accommodations for kids? For mobility needs? For other health issues?
  • How much time do you want to travel to see animals each day? Would you rather stay in the park or reserve (most times with fewer amenities), or prefer to have nicer accommodations but drive a bit longer each day?
  • Would you like a full menu and/or a full bar at the end of the day? Do you have dietary restrictions that need to be accommodated?
  • Would you prefer the option to prep your own meals or grab food on the go rather than have a sit-down meal?
  • Do you want a more rustic experience like the option to sleep out in the bush in tree house or tent style accommodations? Do you want a more traditional hotel experience? A combination of both?

Divide a sheet of paper into 3 columns. Label 1 column “Non-negotiable”, label 1 column, “Nice to Have”, and label the last column “Not For Us.” In the non-negotiables, list the 2-3 amenities that you must have when booking. In the “nice to have” column, jot down a few things that would be worth paying $50-100 more, but maybe not essential for you to have. In the final column, write down some things that you’re not interested in paying for or amenities that won’t meet your needs. Have this ready for your safari booking agent.

Ultimate Guide to booking an African Safari

Types of African Safaris

Once you have some information about your needs and wants, it’s time to match those with safari options. By now, you should have an idea where in Africa you’d like to travel to and what type of experience you’re lookign for.

While there are lots of different ways to sort out safari options, we’re going to talk about 3 main ways to think about booking an African safari:

Self-Guided Safari

Lots of people are surprised to learn you don’t need to use a guide or a safari booking service to go on an African safari. If you’re looking for the lowest cost option, a few days of self-guided safari may be the best choice.

For the cost of an airplane ticket and a rental car, you and your group can pay the entrance fee to the national park or game reserve and drive yourself.

Pros: By cutting out a booking agency and the guiding fees, it’s the most affordable safari option. It also offers the most control over meals and sleeping since you can pick and choose your accomodations rather than purchasing a ‘package’. Best perk, you get to decide how long you stay at animal sightings and which animals you look for.

Cons: You’re on your own to spot wildlife. Guides connect with each other via radio and face-to-face communication about where to see certain animals. You could be driving past wildlife because you’re less familiar with the habitat and behavior. There’s also no support on the ground if you have an emergency.

booking safari

Guided, Rustic Safari in a National Park

The next big category you’ll find when booking an African safari is a guided tour with more rustic accommodations. These are frequently found in protected, undeveloped wilderness areas like Kruger National Park. Similar to the national parks in the United States, regulations prevent many safari areas in Africa from the development of large, commercial operations like lodges and hotels.

During our South African safari, we stayed at the Skukuza Rest Camp inside Kruger National Park. We stayed in a clean, straw-thatched concrete bungalow with electricity, air conditioning, and a private bathroom. Skukuza also has options for canvas tents with shared bathrooms or luxury bungalows with television and wi-fi.

Our safari guide prepped all meals for us, a delicious homecooked South African experience. Stir fry and ostrich steaks were on the menu, served family style with lots of great conversation about the life of a safari guide.

While on our 3 days of safari, we had some great wildlife sightings and were fortunate to be in a private vehicle without the cost of a private safari. It gave us some flexibility to choose which animals we wanted to see, but also gave us our guide’s expertise to go on. While regulations will be different in each area, because we were on protected wilderness land, there are more regulations about how close you can approach the wildlife and when you can and can’t view the wildlife.

Pros: Most affordable way to have a guided safari experience. An experienced guide who knows the wildlife patterns and park regulations. A good option for families or budget-travelers.

Cons: Fewer amenities at the camp and more ‘rustic’ accommodations (Note: these were great for us – but we’re used to camping and backpacking!) Park regulations meant we were restricted to daytime wildlife viewing and to viewing whatever we could see from the road.

booking safari

Guided, Luxury Safari at a Private Game Lodge

One final option for booking an African safari is a guided safari at a private game lodge. While there are a range of prices and options for private game lodges in Africa, these most often fall in the ‘luxury’ option as compared to guided safari in protected wilderness areas like national parks.

The best part about private game lodge experiences are the amenities. If you look forward to a world-class dining experience and pristine spa-like bedroom at the end of a day of wildlife watching, then this is by far the best option for your safari experience. Many private game lodges offer luxury hotel amenities like turn-down service, in-room massages, gyms, and customized trip experiences.

We stayed at Kambaku Safari Lodge on the Timbavati Game Reserve bordering Kruger National Park in South Africa. It was an incredible experience, with some outstanding staff. A family-focused safari lodge, we had two full days of wildlife viewing and relaxing by the pool.

Private game lodges also manage wildlife in different ways than the national parks do, meaning in many cases you can approach the animals closer in the safari vehicle, stay longer at wildlife viewing spots, and go on walking safaris or night game drives.

All of these ‘extras’ come at a cost though. Safaris at private game lodges can be more expensive. Tips and gratuities also add up when it’s not just the safari guide in charge of your care. In some cases, it’s nearly double or triple the cost of a self-guided or guided rustic safari.

Pros: More amenities and custom options to choose from. Ability to see the wildlife close up, night drives, or walking safaris. World-class drinks, dining, and sleeping accomodations .

Cons: More expensive than other choices, private game reserves may have less wildlife than the larger wilderness areas,

When you’ve decided on the type of safari you’re interested in booking, it’s time to start your online searching. We used a private safari booking agency (Wild Wings Safaris) that booked us at Skukuza and Kambaku Safari Lodge. By choosing some time in both a guided rustic and luxury lodge, we had a chance to experience both and still meet our budget. Trip Advisor continues to be one of the best ways to review safari booking agents online.

booking safari

Other Safari Tips

Choose your season carefully.

While the time of year you visit on safari may depend on your personal vacation time, choosing the time you go on safari can make a difference in how you’ll see wildlife. During the summer months in Africa (mid-October to mid-February) the grasses and vegetation in safari areas are much taller and overgrown. Ample rains also mean that animals can find water in lots of different areas and don’t need to congregate. This can mean fewer chances of seeing wildlife than in winter months or longer periods of driving to spot wildlife.

The winter months are much drier, meaning that most of the ground vegetation that camouflages animals disappears. Animals are easier to spot and they frequently can be found near constant water sources. While it means you’ll likely see more wildlife and they’ll be easier to spot, the backgrounds are less ‘lush’ in photographs and you’ll often spot things at a greater distance away.

booking safari

Buy or Rent Good Camera Equipment

An African safari is not the time to use your cell phone camera or a cheap point and shoot camera. It IS the time to buy, rent or borrow some higher end camera equipment including a telephoto lens. Trust us (and the photos in this post) that you will want to do some research on basic wildlife photography and get good equipment before you go.

Remember, for most of us booking an African safari is a once in a lifetime experience. Don’t come home without the photos to prove it.

To see all of our photos from Africa, check out our Facebook and Instagram pages: @parkchasers

booking safari

Ask Questions. Then Ask More.

We had a ton of questions before, during, and after booking our African safari. In every case people were happy to answer our questions. From malaria pills to what type of shoes to pack, we were able to get as much help as we needed to have a good experience.

Ask questions before you book. Then ask more after you book. It’s the only way to make sure you have the ‘bucket list’ trip you always imagined!

Share this:

  • Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on LinkedIn (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Tumblr (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Pocket (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Reddit (Opens in new window)
  • Click to email a link to a friend (Opens in new window)
  • Click to print (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on WhatsApp (Opens in new window)

Picture of THE PARK CHASERS

THE PARK CHASERS

Greg & Amy Chasing a visit to all 400+ units in the NPS Current Count: 130/423 Next Stop: @hawaiivolcanoes

WHERE WE ARE NOW

  • Kruger National Park , safari , South Africa , South Africa National Parks

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

You May Also Like

booking safari

3 Easy Day Hikes in Colorado National Monument

Since the monument was established in 1911, hikers have enjoyed the stunning scenery in Colorado National Monument.  While many of the parks 40+ miles of

All About Colorado National Monument

All About Colorado National Monument

Sometimes our favorite national park units aren’t the end destinations but the parks we find on the way.  Colorado National Monument (Park #95 of 423)

Least Visited National parks in 2021

The Least Visited National Parks in 2021

Even though more than 297 million people visited a national park last year, there are still some places you can find wilderness, quiet, and solitude

Start Park Chasing Today

booking safari

Sub regions inside

Broader region.

AndBeyond Kichwa Tembo Tented Camp

The Masai Mara National Park is one of the world’s greatest safari destinations, featuring vast African savannah plains, breathtaking landscapes, and an abundance of incredible wildlife. The park shares unfenced borders with the Serengeti National Park in Tanzania allowing for the seamless migration of wildlife. Offering unrivalled views of the world’s greatest migration - a wildlife spectacle of over 1.5 million wildebeest moving in a circular direction between Kenya and Tanzania in search of fresh grasslands, creating a dramatic sight as herds attempt to get across the crocodile-infested waters. Visitors also have the rare opportunity of interacting with the Maasai people, learning about their century-old traditions and bush survival skills.

Beyond the migration, enjoy year-round thrilling experiences with game drives and hot air balloon safaris. Each year visitors flock to the reserve to witness the great migration which occurs annually from July through to November.

booking safari

Customer Testimonials

Trustpilot Logo

Sep 13, 2024
Jayson is polite and knowledgeable…Highly recommend
Jayson was a polite and knowledgeable person. He was never 'pushy' and gave us a lot of options. He was very understanding when we had to 'delay' our plans due to an aging mother-in-laws health and wellbeing. We have every intention of pursuing our dream of visiting Africa in the 2025/26 season and we will certainly be in-touch with Jayson. Many thanks to Jayson
Sep 12, 2024
making it very difficult to get…
making it very difficult to get included transfer from Ulusaba lodge to Skukuza airport. the Lodge includes this Transfer, but Jayson said I have to contact the Lodge directly to set it up. He will not set it up for me.
Jayson was very professional helpful…
Jayson was very professional helpful and patient with me. I would recommend him Anytime. Too bad the Ngorongoro crater lodge will be closed during our visit
Sep 11, 2024
SANPARKS booking.
Very prompt and efficient response and service.
Fadiel did a great job
Fadiel did a great job helping us plan and customize our trip. His follow up was timely and consistent.
Sep 10, 2024
Quick reactions to requests
Quick reactions to requests. Very efficient.
Sep 9, 2024
First Time Safari
Mel provided an amazing itinerary and took our feedback and adjusted accordingly. She was very helpful and would strongly recommend her to anyone new to the process.
It was a great experience dealing with…
It was a great experience dealing with Shann. She was most accommodating and patient. We managed to sort things out very eventually. The only sore point I have is the 2 % surcharge for the card handling fee, which I find too excessive. Otherwise, I am pleased with everything.
Sep 8, 2024
Keith went above and beyond…
Keith went above and beyond expectations arranging our holiday safari travels (for one vegan and one mobility-impaired traveller, no less:-). Safari.com is lucky to have Keith on board. He helped us feel confident in our choices, keeping us up to date with options, and finessing holiday scheduling issues with aplomb.

Protect Your Trip »

12 once-in-a-lifetime african safari vacations.

Cross this must-do activity off your bucket list.

booking safari

Top African Safari Vacations

Lewa Safari Camp animal sightings with Expert Africa.

Courtesy of Expert Africa

Safari vacations in Africa are just as diverse as the continent itself, though these types of trips typically require a large sum of money. Whether you want to spend a few days gorilla trekking in Uganda or a couple weeks spotting the "big five" – lions, leopards, African elephants, rhinos and Cape buffalos – in South Africa, you'll find an array of experiences to suit your needs. To help you narrow down your options, U.S. News compiled a list of 12 can't-miss African safari tours. Read on to find your once-in-a-lifetime trip.

Note: Some of the African countries visited by tours in this article may require travelers to get an entry visa and certain vaccinations (particularly yellow fever) in order to visit. Jump to the list of visa and vaccination requirements by country for more information.

&Beyond: Kings of the Jungle Tour

Seeing a lion on an &Beyond safari.

Courtesy of &Beyond

Length: 10 days Starting price: $14,265

Visitors who don't want to sacrifice creature comforts while on safari will appreciate &Beyond's diverse offerings across numerous African destinations. For a classic safari, consider the tour operator's 10-day Kings of the Jungle tour, where travelers will see breathtaking natural wonders like Ngorongo Crater and the Maasai Mara savannah with its elephants and cheetahs. Arguably, the highlight of this journey is its four-night stay at Tanzania's Serengeti National Park .

After watching animals like wildebeest and zebras partake in the great migration while also spotting lions, giraffes and more, vacationers retreat to high-end tents and lodges with private bathrooms. Prices start at $14,265 per person, but are higher around the peak season of June to October.

Wild Rwanda Safaris: Bwindi Gorilla Safari

Gorilla as seen on a safari with Wild Rwanda Safaris.

Courtesy of Wild Rwanda Safaris

Length: Three days Starting price: $1,450 for two people with lowest-cost lodging

Adventurous travelers sticking to a more conservative budget should consider Wild Rwanda Safaris' Bwindi Gorilla Safari. The three-day package features a full day in southwestern Uganda's Bwindi Impenetrable National Park (a haven for gorillas) and adjacent Batwa Pygmy communities. Wild Rwanda Safaris offers a choice of midrange, luxury and super luxury accommodations, allowing you to keep costs down if necessary.

The company's packages include the $700 permit required to visit the gorilla park. The round-trip journey by safari vehicle to and from Kigali, Rwanda, as well as English-speaking guides are covered in all rates. The tour can begin from Kampala, Uganda, as well, although you'll spend a lot longer on the road to the park. Contact the safari company for pricing information.

Nomad Tanzania: Southern Tanzania

Lodge room with Nomad Tanzania.

Courtesy of nomad-tanzania.com

Length: Eight days Starting price: $6,055

Sign up for Nomad Tanzania's Southern Tanzania safari and you're bound to get an up-close look at Tanzania's diverse wildlife. Offering eight days of activities, including game drives and boat trips in Ruaha National Park and Nyerere National Park, this safari gives you prime opportunities to spot lions, cheetahs, leopards and elephants, among other species.

You'll get around the parks with the company's custom-built vehicles, ideal for catching a glimpse of that spectacular wildlife. What's more, the package rates include lodging at the company's campsites; select meals; and the short, scenic flights to and from Dar es Salaam as well as to the parks. Prices are only available upon contacting the company; they vary depending on the time of year, and the tour isn't offered in April and May.

Micato Safaris: The Micato Grand Safari

Hot air balloons with Micato Safaris.

Courtesy of Micato Safaris

Length: 15 days Starting price: $29,500

If you want to explore multiple destinations while on safari with plenty of comfort (but a price tag to match), book the 15-day Micato Grand Safari. This extraordinarily thorough itinerary from Micato Safaris starts with a two-day visit to bustling Nairobi, Kenya, before continuing to the Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, Maasai Mara National Reserve, and the Amboseli and Serengeti national parks. You'll be treated to wildlife-viewing excursions that just might check every animal off your bucket list, from lions and cheetahs to rhinos, hippos and more. During your trip, you'll get to see Mount Kilimanjaro as zebras, gazelles and more roam in the foreground.

The package costs at least $29,500 per person (based on double occupancy rates) and includes activities like a sunrise hot air balloon ride and a camel tour led by members of the Samburu tribe. Lodging at upscale properties like the Serengeti's Four Seasons Safari Lodge and glamorous safari camps with en suite bathrooms is also included. The company also offers various extensions allowing you to explore other parts of Africa, from the island paradise of Zanzibar to the deserts of Namibia.

Rothschild Safaris: Essence of Tanzania

Seeing elephants with Rothschild Safaris.

Courtesy of Rothschild Safaris

Length: Nine days Starting price: Contact company for pricing details.

If your ideal safari vacation consists of customizing your trip from start to finish, consider an outing with Rothschild Safaris. The company offers itineraries in locales like Zambia and Ethiopia, but if you're hoping to catch a glimpse of the "big five" animals, the Essence of Tanzania safari is a good bet.

This nine-day experience, which embarks from Arusha, Tanzania, and returns there by plane, includes game-viewing drives spotting animals like ostriches, zebras and impalas in Tarangire National Park, plus accommodations like luxurious tents and farmhouse lodges. You'll also have the opportunity to go on a nighttime safari to spot nocturnal wildlife. If you time your safari right, you may also be able to see the famed wildebeest migration, when more than a million animals move between the Maasai Mara Reserve in Kenya and Tanzania's Serengeti plains.

Tips on Trips and Expert Picks Newsletter

Travel tips, vacation ideas and more to make your next vacation stellar.

Sign up to receive the latest updates from U.S News & World Report and our trusted partners and sponsors. By clicking submit, you are agreeing to our Terms and Conditions & Privacy Policy .

Lion World Travel: The Best of Cape Town & Botswana

Pool at lodge with Lion World Travel.

Courtesy of Lion World Travel

Length: 10 days Starting price: $4,899

As the trip name implies, the 10-day Best of Cape Town & Botswana vacation package from longtime safari operator Lion World Travel combines a few days of sightseeing in Cape Town, South Africa – where you'll visit the iconic Table Mountain and the Cape Peninsula – with a classic safari in Botswana. During the latter half of the itinerary, visitors will explore Botswana's Okavango Delta, home to cheetahs, crocodiles, hippos and more; you'll have the option of a helicopter flight to spot wildlife from above for an extra fee. Then, you'll visit Chobe National Park, which is believed to have the world's largest African elephant population.

Prices start at $4,899 per person based on double occupancy. Rates cover game drives; many of your meals; and stays in a four-star hotel in Cape Town as well as luxury tents in Botswana. You'll need to pay an extra charge for the flights within the tour (from Cape Town to Botswana and from Botswana to Johannesburg ).

Discover Africa: Botswana – Chobe, Okavango & Makgadikgadi

Two adult elephants as seen on a safari.

Matthys Van Aswegen | Courtesy of Discover Africa

Length: Nine days Starting price: $4,800

For an inside-out trip through the natural wonders of Botswana, Discover Africa's nine-day trip through the country's sprawling game reserves and national parks is a formidable option. You'll start out at a riverside lodge on the Chobe River – a great location for spotting elephants – before moving on to the marshy Okavango Delta, a wildlife-rich area where you can spot a huge range of animals like leopards, rhinos, hippos and more. The safari ends at the Makgadikgadi Pans National Park, a good place to admire wildlife such as zebras and buffalo on the savannah as well as the ethereal white salt pans from a former lake.

You'll stay in upscale lodges and camps within close reach of the wilderness. All meals and transport along the tour are included in the price tag (which starts at $4,800 per person and varies by time of year), but international flights to get to Botswana are excluded.

Wild Wings Safaris: 8 Day Battlefields, Bush & Beach Safari

Family kayaking on Lake Sibaya with Wild Wings Safaris.

Onne Vegter | Courtesy of Wild Wings Safaris

Length: Eight days Starting price: About $4,160 for self-drive option

If you're looking to have a broader experience that mixes in some local history and beach time, consider Wild Wings Safaris' eight-day Battlefields, Bush & Beach Safari. With an itinerary focused on the east of South Africa, you'll start off visiting some of the country's historic sites from the Boer wars, including locations where local Zulu warriors defeated the British, before moving on to Phinda Private Game Reserve. This park doesn't allow day visitors, so you should be able to look out for the "big five" without too many crowds.

The tour wraps up at Thonga Beach Lodge, where you can snorkel or scuba dive near coral reefs in the Indian Ocean. Kayaking and walks through coastal forests are other activities on offer here. As far as safaris go, this one is a somewhat more affordable option, starting at about $4,160 per person with all meals included as well as a rental car; for the cheapest price, you will need to drive yourself between the destinations, but it's possible to pay an additional fee for a driver to guide you instead.

Cuckoo Safaris: 4-Day Discover Victoria Falls, Chobe National Park and Hwange National Park

Aerial of Victoria Falls with a large rainbow over the falls.

Getty Images

Length: Four days Starting price: $1,015

This tour company kicks off many of its tours from the majestic Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe, with a host of safaris that range from three to nine days, across Zimbabwe, Zambia and Botswana, including some family-friendly choices. For an affordable option, consider the four-day Discover Victoria Falls, Chobe National Park and Hwange National Park safari. It will take you on two full-day tours to Chobe National Park in Botswana and Hwange, Zimbabwe's largest national park, where you should keep your eyes peeled for lions, elephants and more, while also visiting rural villages. This safari includes a wildlife spotting boat cruise on the Chobe River as well.

The price starts at $1,015 per person, which includes the tours plus breakfast, lunch and well-rated lodging in Victoria Falls. Travelers will need to pay for their own travel to Victoria Falls. Dinners aren't included, although you'll be staying in the town of Victoria Falls, with access to restaurants.

Compass Odyssey: 8-Day Namibia Wildlife Safari

Seeing elephants in a field at sunset on a Compass Odyssey safari.

Courtesy of Compass Odyssey

Length: Eight days Starting price: Contact company for pricing details.

Explore the savannah and deserts of southwest Africa with Compass Odyssey's eight-day Namibia Wildlife Safari. You'll visit a community-based conservation area in Damaraland – known for its desert-adapted elephants, oryx, giraffes and other wildlife – while staying in the rustic-chic Doro Nawas Camp. Travelers will also spend two days in Etosha National Park, seeking wildlife like giraffes, zebras and elephants at the park's bustling waterholes by day and embarking on an evening game drive with a knowledgeable ranger as well.

The company provides prices on request. The tour includes most meals and all park entry fees, but not flights or the optional "Cheetah Walk." Compass Odyssey allows the tour to be customized on request.

Expert Africa: Big Cat Fly-in Safari

Lewa Safari Camp animal sightings with Expert Africa.

Length: Nine days Starting price: $5,010

Expert Africa offers safaris and other tours in a host of African countries. For a relatively classic tour, consider the Big Cat Fly-in Safari. It offers two different looks at Kenya's stellar wildlife. Firstly, you'll fly north for four nights at the Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, a sanctuary that channels all its profits into protecting the wildlife in its roughly 100-square-mile reserve. You'll stay in classic tented rooms and enjoy three-course dinners, with the option of going on horse- or camelback safaris for an extra fee.

Despite the tour name, you're most likely to see elephants, giraffes, zebras and rhinos here. In fact, you're more likely to see big cats at the tour's second stop, when you fly south to the Maasai Mara National Reserve. The tour company reports a high success rate for travelers spotting lions (and a decent chance of spotting leopards or cheetahs too). Here, you'll spend four days in upscale tents and have the option of soaring over the plains in a hot air balloon. The tour starts at $5,010 for eight nights, with all transport within Kenya included – although Expert Africa customizes most of its tours, so you can likely adjust your safari to your preferences.

Volcanoes Safari: 7 Day Gorilla and Chimpanzee Safari

The Deluxe Room at Bwindi Lodge from Volcanoes Safaris.

Courtesy of Volcanoes Safaris

Length: Seven days Starting price: $8,430

If you're looking to spot some great apes, Volcanoes Safari focuses exclusively on primate tours within Rwanda and Uganda – and with partnerships with the Jane Goodall Institute and Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund, they're responsible too. One of its signature tours, this seven-day itinerary kicks off in Uganda, taking travelers to the famed Kyambura Gorge to spot chimpanzee communities, as well as on a trek through the Bwindi Forest to look for gorillas.

But it's not all about monkeys: The tour also includes chances to see lions on the Ugandan plains and to meet locals engaging in cooperative work raising bees and roasting coffee. Along the way, guests stay in stylish lodges with views of Uganda's mountains and forests. The tour starts at $8,430 per person based on double occupancy in the low season, with all meals included.

Vaccination and visa requirements for African countries

Some popular safari destinations may require you to have received certain vaccinations in order to enter the country as a tourist. Although COVID-19 vaccination requirements no longer exist, it's not uncommon for countries to require you to be vaccinated against illnesses such as yellow fever before departing on your trip. Be sure to bring proof of vaccinations with you. If you are transiting through another country en route to your safari tour, you must check that you also meet immunization requirements for the stopover location.

For many destinations, there are a number of other vaccinations that aren't mandatory but are still recommended, such as for cholera or rabies. Consult with a doctor and ensure you're up to date and fully protected before you travel. In addition, many safari locations are prone to malaria; you should consult with your doctor about potentially bringing anti-malaria medication on your trip.

Safari countries have varying visa requirements for travelers from the U.S. – these are detailed below. Depending on your itinerary, you may need a single- or multiple-entry visa, and some visas require you to apply in advance of traveling and/or have a certain number of blank pages in your passport. Regardless of destination, your passport should be valid for at least six months before you leave for your trip.

Here are the vaccine and visa requirements for major safari destinations as of July 2024:

Botswana: If you have recently visited or transited through a country where yellow fever is common, you will need to be vaccinated against this illness. This does not include the U.S. but does include a number of countries in Africa as well as Central and South America. Consult the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's list of countries with risk of yellow fever transmission, including Kenya and Uganda.

U.S. citizens and nationals can stay in Botswana for 90 days per year without a visa.

Kenya: Kenya is a country where you'll be at risk of yellow fever transmission; it also requires those traveling from other places where yellow fever is endemic to be vaccinated against it. The CDC recommends that you protect yourself against yellow fever before your trip here.

Americans need an eVisa to enter Kenya. You should apply online at the eVisa government website no less than two weeks before your trip, as visas are not available upon arrival in Kenya. See more on the U.S. Department of State's website .

Namibia: Those traveling from a country where yellow fever is common need to be vaccinated against it. No visa is required as long as you're staying for 90 days or less per year.

Rwanda: If you're coming from a country where yellow fever is endemic, a yellow fever vaccination is required before departure.

U.S. citizens and nationals can be issued a 30-day visitor visa on arrival in Rwanda or through the Rwandan Embassy in Washington, D.C. A single-entry visa costs $50 for a single entry or $70 for multiple entries, and it's recommended you bring sufficient cash in U.S. dollars to pay for this (although credit card payment may be accepted at Kigali International Airport). Consult the State Department website for more information.

South Africa: A yellow fever vaccination is required if you're traveling from a country with a risk of transmission, including transits of 12 hours or longer in such countries. No visa is required for stays of 90 days or less.

Tanzania: Yellow fever vaccines are mandatory if you're traveling from a location where yellow fever is present – including if you spend more than 12 hours in transit in such a country. The vaccine should be administered 10 days or more before arrival

Visas are required for tourism in Tanzania. You can apply for a single-entry, 90-day visa online for $50 or a multiple-entry, one-year visa for $100. Be sure to print a copy of the approval (called a "grant notice") to bring with you. The processing period takes up to 10 days. You can also obtain a single-entry visa on arrival in most cases, although the Tanzanian government still recommends the advance online application. Find more Tanzanian visa information on the State Department website .

Uganda: Like Kenya, Uganda is a country with risk of yellow fever transmission. All visitors must show proof of vaccination against yellow fever to enter Uganda, regardless of where you're traveling from.

American visitors to Uganda must apply online for an electronic visa before departure. The processing time is around seven days, but the Ugandan government recommends applying 30 days before you travel; arriving in Uganda without completing this process could result in your detainment. A single-entry visa costs $50. Visit the State Department website to learn more.

Zambia: Yellow fever vaccines are only required if you're coming from an area considered at risk, including long transits (12 hours or more) through such countries. Visas are not required for U.S. citizens visiting Zambia. Check the State Department website for more details.

Zimbabwe: As with other countries on this list, visitors from countries with yellow fever outbreaks require a vaccine against this illness. This includes long transit stopovers of 12 hours or more.

U.S. visitors can obtain a 30-day, single-entry visa upon arrival in Zimbabwe for $30. If you're taking a tour that requires you to leave and reenter Zimbabwe, be sure to get a double-entry visa for $45. You can learn more from the State Department website .

You might also be interested in:

  • The Best Zoos in the U.S.
  • The Best Glamping Resorts in the U.S.
  • The Best Treehouse Hotels in the World
  • The Best Carry-on Luggage
  • The Best Travel Insurance

The 21 Most Beautiful Waterfalls

Beautiful waterfalls

Tags: Travel , Vacation Ideas

World's Best Places To Visit

  • # 1 South Island, New Zealand
  • # 4 Bora Bora

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

You May Also Like

The best nyc food tours.

Ann Henson Sept. 12, 2024

booking safari

Top Indoor Water Park Resorts

Holly Johnson and Amanda Norcross Sept. 11, 2024

booking safari

The Best Tower of London Tours

Laura French Sept. 11, 2024

booking safari

Romantic Getaways in Florida

Alissa Grisler and Gwen Pratesi Sept. 9, 2024

booking safari

The Best Weekend Getaways From NYC

Alissa Grisler and Jessica Colley Clarke Sept. 5, 2024

booking safari

The Best Beach Resorts in the World

Sept. 5, 2024

booking safari

The Best Rome Food Tours

Laura Itzkowitz Sept. 4, 2024

booking safari

Top Things to Do in Hershey, PA

Amanda Norcross Aug. 30, 2024

booking safari

The Best College Town Hotels

Rachael Hood Aug. 29, 2024

booking safari

Fun Fall Weekend Getaways

Aug. 29, 2024

booking safari

logo

  • History of the Park
  • Wildlife Animals

Safari Timing

Safari Zones

Safari Booking

How to Reach

  • Travel by Road
  • Travel by Air
  • Travel by Train

Best Time to Visit

  • Hotel Jungle Retreat
  • Hotel Ananta Palace
  • Hotel Green View
  • Hotel Ranthambore Paradise
  • Om Rudrapriya Holiday Resort
  • Raj Palace Resort
  • Hotel Rajputana Heritage
  • Vatika Resort
  • WelcomHeritage Mount Valley Resort
  • Heritage Haveli Ranthambore
  • Tiger Den Resort
  • Tiger Moon Resort
  • The Tigress Resort Ranthambore
  • Puratan Qila
  • Jungle Vilas
  • Oberoi Vanya Vilas
  • Aman- I- Khas
  • Wildlife Packages

images

Ranthambore Safari

Jeep & Canter Safari Safari Booking

  • Wildlife Tour Packages
  • Travel Information

The jungle safari at Ranthambore National Park happens twice a day, every day, between the months of October and June and is a popular tourist attraction in Rajasthan. The wildlife safari is only permitted during the months of October-June and is not available on Wednesdays, as the park remains closed. Bookings for the Ranthambore safaris are handled by the Forest Department and are offered in two formats: Jeep Safari and Canter Safari. The Jeep Safari can accommodate up to 6 people, while the Canter Safari can hold up to 20 people at a time.

Although the Ranthambore’s Jeep Safari is slightly more expensive than the Canter, it is recommended by visitors who have experienced the wildlife of the park because it allows for more flexibility in movement and can access areas the Canter cannot.

The Safari lasts approximately 3 and a half hours and occurs twice a day: once in the morning and once in the evening. Since these safaris are very popular, it’s advisable to book well in advance. The park also reserves a certain number of seats every morning for slots in the evening of that day and the following morning. You can book the seats for your safari online.

A Brief Insight into Ranthambore Tiger Reserve

Ranthambore National Park is among the foremost tiger reserves in the world that shelters the Bengal Tiger species. It is a favorite destination for photographers and wildlife enthusiasts. Located in Sawai Madhopur, in the northern Indian state of Rajasthan, Ranthambore Tiger Reserve has emerged as a renowned destination for wildlife tourism in India. Uniquely, the tigers here are active during the day, unlike most tigers that are typically nocturnal.

Given the substantial number of tigers that roam freely within the park, there’s a good chance of spotting one during a visit. These majestic creatures exist nonchalantly in the reserve, so if you’re keen on a close encounter, allowing you to observe them in all their grandeur, then a jungle safari is the way to go. Ranthambore National Park offers safaris for visitors eager to see the tigers in their natural habitat. In addition to the tigers, one might also encounter other wildlife such as leopards, hyenas, wild cats, reptiles, and a variety of birds that call Ranthambore home.

Need assistance with Ranthambore Safari bookings? Call or WhatsApp at +91-9212777225.

Best of Ranthambore’s Safari Zones

Ranthambore National Park is divided into ‘core areas’ and ‘buffer zones’. The ‘core areas’ are regions where tigers roam freely. To protect and support their habitat, deforestation and other commercial activities are prohibited in these areas. In contrast, ‘buffer zones’ are areas of the reserve where the land can be used by local people for farming or other purposes while still being managed for conservation by the government.

For visitor convenience, Ranthambore National Park is segmented into 10 zones for tiger sightings. Zones 1-5 constitute the core areas, while zones 6-10 are part of the buffer zone. Zones 3, 4, and 5 are particularly popular and preferred by many visitors. During the summer, tigers are more easily sighted in these zones due to the presence of lakes and other water bodies. These sites attract tigers and other animals looking to quench their thirst in the hot season.

Wildlife That Can Be Spotted During Ranthambore Jungle Safari

Being a tiger reserve, Ranthambore National Park has a large number of Tigers in its habitat. It also has other big cats such as-

  • Fishing Cat

Apart from the wild cats, the park has other wild animals as well, such as:

  • Indian Wild Boar
  • Hanuman Langurs
  • Sambar Deer
  • Spotted Deer
  • Indian Gazelle
  • Blue Bull or Nilgai

Ranthambore also has abundant reptile species as well, like:

  • Desert Monitor Lizards
  • Banded Kraits
  • Indian Pythons
  • Indian Flap Shelled Turtle
  • Russell’s Viper
  • Snub Nosed Marsh Crocodiles

The bird enthusiasts can indulge in a wholesome bird watching experience due to the variety of birds that are found here. Some of them include:

  • Woodpeckers
  • Greylag Goose
  • Asian Palm Swift

Ranthambore Safari Timings

Safari timings in the Ranthambore tiger reserve vary by season, so it’s best to confirm them before your visit-

Best Time for Ranthambore’s Jungle Safari

The best time to visit Ranthambore National Park is during the months of October to March since the weather is pleasant to travel. But it is during the months of April to June that you can see tigers more since they can be seen near the lakes and other water bodies to quench their thirst during the hot summer season.

  • Advance Booking: Ensure you book your Ranthambore safari well in advance. Due to its popularity, failing to do so might result in not getting your preferred zone, vehicle, or even a seat.
  • Multiple Safaris: Consider taking multiple safaris. This increases your chances of sighting a tiger, as sightings are influenced by both seasons and tiger movements.
  • Hydration: Bring plenty of water. A safari typically lasts around 3 and a half hours.
  • Binoculars: Given that animals might be distant, carrying binoculars can enhance your viewing experience.
  • Clothing: Opt for earthy-toned clothes like brown, green, and beige. These help you blend in with the surroundings. Avoid bright colors like red, which might make animals cautious and deter them from approaching.

Dos and Don’ts During the Safari

  • Protection: Carry sun hats, scarfs, and masks. The park’s climate is dry, and there can be considerable dust.
  • Behavior: Stay composed and calm. Always listen to your guide.
  • Feeding: Never feed the animals. They have ample food, and feeding them can be dangerous given their wild nature.
  • Littering: Avoid littering during your safari. Instead, dispose of waste at designated spots.
  • Vehicle Safety: Do not disembark from your vehicle and always remain seated.
  • Noise: Refrain from making loud noises or sounds. This could deter animals and hinder sightings.
  • Substances: Smoking and alcohol consumption are prohibited within the park’s premises.

Ranthambore Best Sellers

images

9 Nights - 10 Days

Tiger Special Tour

images

6 Nights - 7 Days

Tiger & Leopard Safari at Rant...

images

8 Nights - 9 Days

Taj Mahal Tour With Tigers & E...

images

12 Nights - 13 Days

Ranthambore Tour with Golden Triang...

images

5 Nights - 6 Days

Ranthambore with Udaipur Tour

Travel information guide.

images

Photography

images

Canter Safari

images

Gypsy Safari

images

Frequently Asked Questions about Ranthambore Safari

Q. what is the duration of a wildlife safari in ranthambore park.

The duration of one safari lasts for 3 hours in Ranthambore National Park.

Q. Will I get an exclusive or shared Jeep Safari?

The jeep requirement for the wildlife safari totally depends on client’s requirement. One can either book the entire 6-seater jeep or choose to opt for sharing jeep safari. 

Q. Apart from the safari, what else is there to do at the Park?

Besides wildlife safari in Ranthambore National Park, you can visit the other nearby tourist attractions like Ranthambore Fort, Jogi Mahal, Village Women Craft, Ranthambore School of Art and more. 

Q. Am I allowed to bring my pet with me on the safari?

No, you are not allowed to bring your pet on the safari in the Park. 

Q. How can I book my Safari online?

You can book the safari for Ranthambore Park by visiting our website. Fill up the mandatory form and your preferences. Once you are done with filling up the form, our tour expert will get back to you with the necessary information related to the safari in Ranthambore National Park. 

Q. Could you please explain what do you mean by ‘naturalist at the time of the safari?’

By the term ‘naturalist at the time of the safari’ we mean a wildlife expert who would guide you about the flora, fauna and avifauna at the time of the safari.

Q. Are tourists allowed to bring food inside the park to feed the wild animals?

No, tourists are not allowed to bring food inside the Ranthambore National Park to feed the wild animals. 

Q. Is it safe to take the Ranthambore Tiger Safari?

Yes, it is absolutely safe to take the Ranthambore Tiger Safari along with our tour representative who will guide you throughout the trip. 

Q. Are drinks provided during the safari in the vehicle?

No, drinks are not provided during the safari in the vehicle but you can carry your own water bottle. 

Q. Are we allowed to walk around the National Park?

No, you are not allowed to walk around the Ranthambore National Park. 

Q. Will I face any danger during the safari in Ranthambore?

No, as it will be a guided tour you will not face any danger during the safari in Ranthambore. 

Q. What is the location to arrive for the safari at Ranthambore Park?

If you haven’t booked hotel with us and is at Ranthambore for a day-trip, you can arrive at the Welcome Heritage Mount Valley Resort for the safari. However, if you have booked your stay at one of the hotels provided in our package, you will get the pickup service from the hotel for the respective safari zone gate.

Q. Can we get pick up service from our hotel in Sawai Madhopur?

No, we don’t provide pick up services from the hotel in Sawai Madhopur. Our pick up services are only available for the nearby hotels of Ranthambore.

Q. We are traveling with kids of this age (2,3,4). Do you have any age restrictions?

No, there is no age restrictions and you can freely travel to the Ranthambore tiger reserve with your kids of the age 2,3, and 4.

Best Nearby Places to Visit

  • Delhi Travel Guide
  • Agra Travel Guide
  • Jaipur Travel Guide
  • Sawai Madhopur Travel Guide
  • Bharatpur Travel Guide
  • Bundi Travel Guide
  • Chittorgarh Travel Guide

From Our Blog

images

10 Sep, 2024

Tigress sidhhi spotted with newborn cubs weeks bef.

images

08 Aug, 2024

7 best jungle safaris in india.

images

24 Jul, 2024

Why we celebrate international tiger day: explorin.

images

22 Jul, 2024

Ranthambore national park & udaipur will be connec.

News

Tour Packages

Career

Hotels & Resorts

our-business-icon

Weekend Packages

get-in-touch

Wildlife Safari

phone

Plan Your trip

booking safari

Enquiry Form

booking safari

Safari Hostel

About safari hostel.

  • Hostel Room An affordable stay with shared facilities

Latest deals for Safari Hostel

Reviews of safari hostel.

All reviews are collected from real users with a verified booking made with KAYAK or one of our trusted external partners.

Learn how KAYAK collects reviews.

  • Very near centre of Moscow. (in 3 reviews)
  • Breakfast was very good. (in 21 reviews)
  • Kitchen and common area was nice. (in 5 reviews)
  • Everything is good(eccept thief). (in 1 review)
  • Slippers for inside are provided and tea and coffee. (in 2 reviews)
  • 15 minutes to Kremlin. (in 1 review)

What's nearby

  • Bolshoi Theatre 0.6 km
  • State Historical Museum 1.1 km
  • Red Square 1.2 km
  • GUM Shopping Centre 1.2 km
  • Lenin's Mausoleum 1.3 km
  • Tchaikovsky Concert Hall 1.4 km
  • St. Basil's Cathedral 1.5 km
  • Moscow Kremlin 1.6 km
  • Patriarch's Pond 1.6 km
  • Cathedral of Christ the Saviour 2.5 km
  • Moscow Zoo 2.6 km
  • State Tretyakov Gallery 2.7 km

When to book a room at Safari Hostel

Faqs when booking at safari hostel, where is safari hostel located.

Safari Hostel is located at Petrovka Street 26 Bld. 8 in Tverskoy District, 2.5 km from the centre of Moscow. Bolshoi Theatre is the closest landmark to Safari Hostel.

When is check-in time and check-out time at Safari Hostel?

Check-in time is 14:00 and check-out time is 12:00 at Safari Hostel.

How far is Safari Hostel from the airport?

Safari Hostel is 25.6 km from Moscow Sheremetyevo.

How does KAYAK find such great Safari Hostel hotel deals?

KAYAK scours the web for all room deals available at Safari Hostel in Moscow and lets you compare them to find the best rate for your stay. Many different travel sites will offer discounts or deals at different times for rooms at Safari Hostel and KAYAK will provide you with prices from a huge range of travel sites. That means that you can always find a great deal for Safari Hostel.

Nearby hotels and places to stay

Most recommended, good to know.

Safari Hostel

About safari hostel.

  • Hostel Room An affordable stay with shared facilities

Latest deals for Safari Hostel

Reviews of safari hostel.

All reviews are collected from real users with a verified booking made with KAYAK or one of our trusted external partners.

Learn how KAYAK collects reviews.

  • Very near centre of Moscow. (in 3 reviews)
  • Breakfast was very good. (in 21 reviews)
  • Kitchen and common area was nice. (in 5 reviews)
  • Everything is good(eccept thief). (in 1 review)
  • Slippers for inside are provided and tea and coffee. (in 2 reviews)
  • 15 minutes to Kremlin. (in 1 review)

What's nearby

  • Bolshoi Theatre 0.6 km
  • State Historical Museum 1.1 km
  • Red Square 1.2 km
  • GUM Shopping Centre 1.2 km
  • Lenin's Mausoleum 1.3 km
  • Tchaikovsky Concert Hall 1.4 km
  • St. Basil's Cathedral 1.5 km
  • Moscow Kremlin 1.6 km
  • Patriarch's Pond 1.6 km
  • Cathedral of Christ the Saviour 2.5 km
  • Moscow Zoo 2.6 km
  • State Tretyakov Gallery 2.7 km

When to book a room at Safari Hostel

Faqs when booking at safari hostel, where is safari hostel located.

Safari Hostel is located at Petrovka Street 26 Bld. 8 in Tverskoy District, 2.5 km from the centre of Moscow. Bolshoi Theatre is the closest landmark to Safari Hostel.

When is check-in time and check-out time at Safari Hostel?

Check-in time is 14:00 and check-out time is 12:00 at Safari Hostel.

How far is Safari Hostel from the airport?

Safari Hostel is 25.6 km from Moscow Sheremetyevo.

How does KAYAK find such great Safari Hostel hotel deals?

KAYAK scours the web for all room deals available at Safari Hostel in Moscow and lets you compare them to find the best rate for your stay. Many different travel sites will offer discounts or deals at different times for rooms at Safari Hostel and KAYAK will provide you with prices from a huge range of travel sites. That means that you can always find a great deal for Safari Hostel.

Nearby hotels and places to stay

Most recommended, good to know.

  • Hotel reviews homepage →
  • Russia hotel reviews →
  • Moscow region B&B and inn reviews →
  • Moscow B&B and inn reviews →
  • Reviews of Villa Kadashi Boutique Hotel

Reviews of Villa Kadashi Boutique Hotel 4 stars

2-y Kadashevskiy per. 16, Bldg.1, Yakimanka, 115035 Moscow, Russia

#4 of 55 B&Bs and Inns in Moscow

Review score

Based on 12 hotel reviews

Score breakdown

Cleanliness

Value for money

100% verified reviews

Real guests. Real stays. Real opinions.

How guest reviews work

Each review score is between 1-10. To get the overall score that you see, we add up all the review scores we’ve received and divide that total by the number of review scores we’ve received. We are currently testing a weighted review system in Malta and Iceland (excluding hotel and vacation rental chains). For properties in these countries, the more recent the review, the bigger the impact on the total review score calculation. In addition, guests can give separate ‘subscores’ in crucial areas, such as location, cleanliness, staff, comfort, facilities, value for money and free Wi-Fi. Note that guests submit their subscores and their overall scores independently, so there’s no direct link between them.

You can review an Accommodation that you booked through our Platform if you stayed there or if you arrived at the property but didn’t actually stay there. To edit a review you’ve already submitted, please contact our Customer Service team.

We have people and automated systems that specialise in detecting fake reviews submitted to our Platform. If we find any, we delete them and, if necessary, take action against whoever is responsible.

Anyone else who spots something suspicious can always report it to our Customer Service team, so our Fraud team can investigate.

Ideally, we would publish every review we receive, whether positive or negative. However, we won’t display any review that includes or refers to (among other things):

  • Politically sensitive comments
  • Promotional content
  • Illegal activities
  • Personal or sensitive information (e.g. emails, phone numbers or credit card info)
  • Swear words, sexual references, hate speech, discriminatory remarks, threats, or references to violence
  • Spam and fake content
  • Animal cruelty
  • Impersonation (e.g. if the writer is claiming to be someone else)
  • Any violation of our review guidelines.

To make sure reviews are relevant, we may only accept reviews that are submitted within 3 months of checking out, and we may stop showing reviews once they’re 36 months old – or if the Accommodation has a change of ownership.

An Accommodation may choose to reply to a review.

When you see multiple reviews, the most recent ones will be at the top, subject to a few other factors (what language a review is in, whether it’s just a rating or contains comments as well, etc.). If you like, you can sort and/or filter them (by time of year, review score, etc.).

We sometimes show external review scores from other well-known travel websites. We make it clear when we’ve done this.

Guidelines and standards for Reviews

These guidelines and standards aim to keep the content on Booking.com relevant and family-friendly without limiting expression of strong opinions. They are also applicable regardless of the sentiment of the comment.

Contributions should be travel related. The most helpful contributions are detailed and help others make better decisions. Please don’t include personal, political, ethical, or religious commentary. Promotional content will be removed and issues concerning Booking.com’s services should be routed to our Customer Service or Accommodation Service teams.

Contributions should be appropriate for a global audience. Please avoid using profanity or attempts to approximate profanity with creative spelling, in any language. Comments and media that include 'hate speech', discriminatory remarks, threats, sexually explicit remarks, violence, and the promotion of illegal activity are not permitted.

All content should be genuine and unique to the guest. Reviews are most valuable when they are original and unbiased. Your contribution should be yours. Booking.com property partners should not post on behalf of guests or offer incentives in exchange for reviews. Attempts to bring down the rating of a competitor by submitting a negative review will not be tolerated.

Respect the privacy of others. Booking.com will make an effort to obscure email addresses, telephone numbers, website addresses, social media accounts, and similar details.

The opinions expressed in contributions are those of Booking.com customers and properties and not of Booking.com. Booking.com does not accept responsibility or liability for any reviews or responses. Booking.com is a distributor (without any obligation to verify) and not a publisher of these comments and responses.

By default, reviews are sorted based on the date of the review and on additional criteria to display the most relevant reviews, including but not limited to: your language, reviews with text, and non-anonymous reviews. Additional sorting options may be available (by type of traveller, by score, etc.).

Translations disclaimer

This service may contain translations powered by Google. Google disclaims all warranties related to the translations, express or implied, including any warranties of accuracy, reliability, and any implied warranties of merchantability, fitness for a particular purpose and non-infringement.

Showing 1 – 12

Reviewed: 8 January 2022

  • • Leisure trip
  • • Couple
  • • Deluxe Double Room
  • • Stayed 5 nights
  • • Submitted via mobile

Staff could be more professional.

Great location

Stayed in January 2022

Reviewed: 17 December 2021

  • • Junior Suite Double Room
  • • Stayed 1 night

There was no buffet breakfast but there is a wide choice from the menu. The breakfast dishes from the menu were quickly prepared and very tasty as well.

The hotel is in a beautiful, quiet location but still very close to all the tourist sites. The spacious room was amazing with a view of the nearby church.

Stayed in December 2021

Reviewed: 30 November 2021

  • • Business trip

position, service, staff

Stayed in November 2021

Reviewed: 14 September 2021

  • • Superior Double Room

There was no odor in the room.

Location is great. Overall impression is really good. A huge bathroom was great!

Stayed in September 2021

Reviewed: 13 November 2021

Super overpriced. It’s cold in the room. Rooms are small. No bathtub, at least you would expect to see it for such a price.

Clean rooms.

Reviewed: 28 February 2022

  • • Solo traveller
  • • Stayed 4 nights

There are no comments available for this review

Stayed in February 2022

Reviewed: 10 February 2022

Reviewed: 5 January 2022

  • • Family with young children
  • • Stayed 7 nights

Reviewed: 18 December 2021

Reviewed: 27 September 2021

  • • Stayed 2 nights

Reviewed: 26 January 2022

  • Moscow region hotel reviews

List your property

  • Mobile version
  • Your account
  • Make changes to your booking online
  • Customer Service help
  • Booking.com for Business
  • Places of interest
  • Guest Houses
  • Unique places to stay
  • Discover monthly stays
  • Travel articles
  • Seasonal and holiday deals
  • Traveller Review Awards
  • Flight finder
  • Restaurant reservations
  • Booking.com for Travel Agents
  • Coronavirus (COVID-19) FAQs
  • About Booking.com
  • Partner help
  • Sustainability
  • Press centre
  • Safety resource centre
  • Investor relations
  • Terms & Conditions
  • Partner dispute
  • How we work
  • Privacy & Cookie Statement
  • Cookie Settings Manage cookie settings
  • Modern Slavery Statement
  • Human Rights Statement
  • Corporate contact
  • Content guidelines and reporting

Booking.com is part of Booking Holdings Inc., the world leader in online travel and related services.

Verified reviews from real guests.

We have more than 70 million property reviews, and they're all from real, verified guests .

How does it work?

It starts with a booking.

The only way to leave a review is to first make a booking. That's how we know our reviews come from real guests who have stayed at the property.

Followed by a trip

When guests stay at the property they check out how quiet the room is, how friendly the staff are and more.

And finally, a review

After their trip, guests tell us about their stay. We check for naughty words and verify the authenticity of all guest reviews before adding them to our site.

If you booked through us and want to leave a review, please sign in first.

booking safari

COMMENTS

  1. SafariBookings: Compare 11,632 African Safari Holidays

    7-Day Amazing Northern Tanzania Circuit Safari. Our 26 award-winning experts contribute to our detailed travel guides and have written more than 1,000 expert reviews. Compare 10,788 African safari holidays offered by top-rated tour operators. Find the best deals using the largest marketplace for African safaris!

  2. African Safari

    Compare 11,851 African safaris and tours offered by specialized safari tour operators. Find the best deals using the largest marketplace for African safaris! Menu. Safaris & Tours. Botswana (619) ... The agent to book a resort for guests. 3/5. Overall, a 3-star experience with a 5-star cost. • The toilet in the room doesn't flush well.

  3. BookAllSafaris

    3 Days Classic Big Five Safari in Balule Nature Reserve and Kruger National Park, South Africa. Airport transfer included. 1 person 3 days • Available all year. from. US$ 924. Namibia.

  4. Best African Safari Tours, Packages & Tailored Itineraries

    [email protected]. Go2Africa House, 12A Portswood Road. V&A Waterfront, Cape Town 8001, South Africa. Africa tour and safari packages for luxury, Big 5, family and honeymoon vacations. Everything you need to know about African safaris, from the experts.

  5. African. Safari. Experts. We'll Show You Africa

    Collectively, we spend more than 365 days a year on safari to ensure you get the best, unbiased advice. We won't show you the world; we'll show you Africa, better than anyone else. Based in Cape Town, South Africa. 3000+ safari partners across Africa. Assistance & local know-how whenever you need it.

  6. Tanzania Safari

    Compare 5,736 Tanzania safari tours offered by 345 reputable tour operators. Find the best deals using the largest marketplace for African safaris! Menu. Safaris & Tours. Botswana ... The best way to see the parks is on a bespoke safari for two or four people who book together as a family or group of friends, though that obviously comes at a price.

  7. African Safari Experts

    We guarantee that our luxury safari packages are priced the same as booking directly with the lodges and camps. You benefit from our expert planning and personalized service without paying extra. Our suppliers pay us a commission for handling the complex logistics involved in a safari itinerary because they value the seamless experience we provide.

  8. Find your perfect safari accommodation.

    Inspire and find the perfect safari destinations, best reserves and most beautiful accommodation for your unforgettable safari. Unique filter options. ... Book. With our integrated real-time booking system with availability query, you get immediate certainty and can book directly.

  9. Best Africa Safari Tours & Vacations 2024/2025

    Go on safari through Kruger National Park, one of the largest game reserves in Southern Africa. This massive park is one of the premier safari spots in all of Africa and for good reason; it's home to over 500 bird species, 100 species of reptile and 150 mammal species, including the Big Five and the endangered African wild dog. View trip.

  10. Tanzania Safaris

    10 Day Bush and Beach Safari. A professional driver/guide. 2 nights at Mount Meru Hotel in Arusha. 1 night at Eileen's Trees Inn in Karatu. 2 nights at Serengeti Kati Kati Camp. 1 night at Rhino Lodge Ngorongoro Crater. View safari to see all inclusions.. $ 530 USD. Per person per night.

  11. Everything you need to know before booking your first African safari

    For many, a safari represents the optimal escape and lifelong travel dream. If you're going to invest in turning this dream into reality, there are some things worth considering. Plus, we ...

  12. The Ultimate Guide to Booking An African Safari

    One final option for booking an African safari is a guided safari at a private game lodge. While there are a range of prices and options for private game lodges in Africa, these most often fall in the 'luxury' option as compared to guided safari in protected wilderness areas like national parks.

  13. Top 5 Tips for Booking Your African Safari

    Full travel booking service - it's in your best interest to work with a full-service partner, an agent that takes care of every detail from your flights, activities, accommodation, transfers… everything. 24/7 on-safari support - an important advantage of booking through a credible agent who is based in Africa.

  14. All-inclusive Tanzania Safari

    7-Day Luxury All-Inclusive Epic Safari. $3,550 to $3,867 pp (USD) Tanzania: Private tour Luxury Lodge & Tented Camp. You Visit: Arusha (Start), Tarangire NP, Lake Manyara NP, Serengeti NP, Ngorongoro Crater, Arusha (End) Lion King Adventures. 5.0 /5 - 1,131 Reviews.

  15. Safari Planning Tips: What You Need to Know to Travel to Africa

    Booking an all-inclusive safari camp is the best way to go about booking a safari, in my opinion. There are very few, if any, food and drink options outside of these resorts because the Masai Mara is an extremely wild place! The native people, the Masai, are a very traditional community, meaning food and drink service is done almost exclusively ...

  16. Masai Mara

    The Masai Mara National Park is one of the world's greatest safari destinations, featuring vast African savannah plains, breathtaking landscapes, and an abundance of incredible wildlife. ... Tanya Lomas was very efficient and it was a pleasure booking through her. Astrid Brandt/C Brandt, ZA. Sep 3, 2024. Knowledgable and responsive.

  17. 12 Once-in-a-Lifetime African Safari Vacations

    Wild Rwanda Safaris: Bwindi Gorilla Safari. Courtesy of Wild Rwanda Safaris. Length: Three days. Starting price: $1,450 for two people with lowest-cost lodging. Adventurous travelers sticking to a ...

  18. Ranthambore Safari & Booking Information

    The wildlife safari is only permitted during the months of October-June and is not available on Wednesdays, as the park remains closed. Bookings for the Ranthambore safaris are handled by the Forest Department and are offered in two formats: Jeep Safari and Canter Safari. The Jeep Safari can accommodate up to 6 people, while the Canter Safari ...

  19. Booking.com

    Explore the world with Booking.com. Big savings on homes, hotels, flights, car rentals, taxis, and attractions - build your perfect trip on any budget. Whether you're looking for hotels, homes, or vacation rentals, you'll always find the guaranteed best price. Browse our 2,563,380 accommodations in over 85,000 destinations.

  20. 1,099 South Africa Safari Tours (Offered by 67 Tour Operators)

    5-Day Tremisana Lodge Kruger Park Safari. $1,078 to $1,120 pp (USD) South Africa: Shared tour (max 9 people per vehicle) Mid-range Lodge. You Visit: Johannesburg (Start), Balule NR (Greater Kruger), Greater Kruger, Kruger NP, Blyde River Canyon (Panorama Route), Johannesburg (End) Viva Safaris. 4.9 /5 - 287 Reviews.

  21. The 30 best safari holidays

    How to do it: Newmarket Holidays (0330 341 1927) offers the 10-day On Safari in Botswana trip from £3,420pp, including flights, half-board accommodation, game drives and river cruise. Back to the top

  22. Safari Hostel . Moscow Hotel Deals & Reviews

    Compare prices and find the best deal for the Safari Hostel in Moscow (Moscow) on KAYAK. Rates from $15.

  23. Safari Hostel . Moscow Hotel Deals & Reviews

    Safari Hostel is located at Petrovka Street 26 Bld. 8 in Tverskoy District, 2.5 km from the centre of Moscow. Bolshoi Theatre is the closest landmark to Safari Hostel. When is check-in time and check-out time at Safari Hostel? Check-in time is 14:00 and check-out time is 12:00 at Safari Hostel. How far is Safari Hostel from the airport?

  24. 308 Verified Reviews of Villa Kadashi Boutique Hotel

    Read 308 verified reviews from real guests of Villa Kadashi Boutique Hotel in Moscow, rated 9.3 out of 10 by Booking.com guests. Skip to main content. GBP Choose your currency. Your current currency is Pound sterling Choose your language. Your current language is English (UK) Select your language