p.1 #1 · Need Help Planning My First African Safari
Greetings to the knowledgeable and generous FM members who have posted to this thread. I am planning a first time safari for my wife and I and another couple who are close friends. I thought that by reading every post in this thread (which I did and took notes), and then visiting the websites of the recommended tour operators and camps, I could easily plan this trip. Instead, I became overwhelmed with choices, and most of the websites I visited were unhelpful, to say the least. So I'm hoping that if I provide details of what we are looking for, the experienced members of this group can point me in the right direction. So here we go:
The four of us, all in our early 70's, are very much into nature and wild animals. Although I am the only experienced wildlife photographer of our group, the other three will have no issue with waiting for the moment. There will be no "can we go now" issues. I'm interested in going to private game reserves where you can go off road and the number of vehicles at any sighting are limited. I'd like a tour operator that caters to photographers, but do not need a photo instructor or to be provided with camera equipment. Looking for a private vehicle for just the four of us.
My primary interest is the big cats -- cheetahs, lions, leopards -- but also would love to see whatever else is there. Looking to go in dry season, although shoulder seasons are fine too. Not looking for great migration, unless it can be done away from crowds (does not seem likely based on this thread, but I don't know). Was thinking of Kenya or South Africa, but will be guided by your suggestions.
Looking for about 10 days total, including travel from and to USA. Budget is not an issue although not looking for ultra luxury, but will consider it if all else is right.
Based on that info, can you recommend tour operators who can put together an itinerary that includes private reserves, lodgings, a private vehicle and guide, and local flights and transportation? Thank you for any suggestions, your help will be greatly appreciated!!
p.1 #2 · Need Help Planning My First African Safari
Private reserves = just go to the zoo.
You can come on my Tanzania great migration safari and it will probably be the same cost as what you are going to be recommended here for your shoulder season trip and you will have a better experience.
10 days with air travel from the USA is not enough. i would suggest 12-14
p.1 #3 · Need Help Planning My First African Safari
Private reserves = just go to the zoo.
You can come on my Tanzania great migration safari and it will probably be the same cost as what you are going to be recommended here for your shoulder season trip and you will have a better experience.
10 days with air travel from the USA is not enough. i would suggest 12-14
p.1 #4 · Need Help Planning My First African Safari
I've used Singita for my African safaris and have been to several of their locations. They will easily meet all of your criteria and make the arrangements an easy process. Singita will be the ultimate experience and they do have private game reserves.
You can explore their website and contact them to assess if they can achieve your goals.
Andy Biggs organizes custom safaris and he is also an excellent resource to arrange a trip to meet your criteria. He has a website that can enlighten you on his services.
There are certainly other companies and individuals who can assist with your planning based on the vast experience of the members of this forum. You will probably receive their helpful replies in short order.
Enjoy your travels.
p.1 #6 · Need Help Planning My First African Safari
Hi Len,
I agree it can be overwhelming to plan your first safari. I have booked several trips with a good friend based in Cape Town who I would be happy to recommend if you want someone to put together some itineraries for you. For big cats the Sabi Sands in South Africa are great (private, off road, etc.). Kenyan conservancies are good too for the same reason. The critique of both of these locations is they don't feel especially wild. Easy to get to but close to civilization and you'll feel it. In the Mara conservancies it isn't unusual to come across the local Masai grazing their cattle. It kind of takes you out of the moment, if I'm honest. Though the wildlife opportunities are excellent.
Zambia and Botswana are much more wild and remote feeling if that's what you're after. They have the big cats, though with smaller crowds you have to work a bit more for your sightings. I found it more rewarding.
Feel free to shoot me a PM if you'd like contact details for the agent I mentioned. And of course happy to answer any other questions if I can.
p.1 #7 · Need Help Planning My First African Safari
I've only been once, so I don't have a lot of experience to share, but I will recommend Great Plains. We stayed at two of their camps and they were amazing. And definitely look for conservancies, much nicer than the parks. Have fun!
p.1 #8 · Need Help Planning My First African Safari
Thanks all for the helpful replies. Cduff, Great Plains looks like it might be right for me, but the website is short on details re price. Will have to talk to them to find out.
Regards,
Len
