There’s going on a safari—then there’s going on an African safari in comfort and style. When planning a safari, you first need to decide what you want to see and how you want to see it. For example, do you want to watch animals on horseback, on an elephant trek, a walking tour, from an SUV, etc? Do you want to fly a private jet between destinations or drive? Would you rather see gorillas, the Big Five, or both? When you know these details, choose a well-known, reputable tour operator that offers an all-inclusive experience. This will save you from the risks and stresses of looking for guides, vehicle rentals, food and safe accommodations. Get the most out of the experience by planning to stay at least a week in each park or country. To eliminate the stress that often comes with commercial travel, charter a private jet to Africa to have a comfortable experience from start to finish.
South Africa
Photo from Wikimedia Commons via freestock.ca
South Africa is great to visit all year round, but it’s generally best to go on a safari between June and September, the region’s dry season. The country has a well-organized tourist infrastructure, making it a popular destination. The area’s best-known park is Kruger National Park, as it has the largest conservation area in the world with an impressive variety of animals, including the Big Five. Also available are private conservancies and lodges. Top luxury operators include &Beyond and Cape Insights
Botswana
Photo by Arturo de Frias Marques
As one of the most expensive safari destinations, Botswana is a higher-end tourism destination known for its luxury packages and smaller crowds. The best time of year to go is between January and November. If you love elephants, head to Chobe National Park to see its massive herds. The Moremi Wildlife Reserve has plenty of the Big Five. For more water-loving animals—hippos, crocodiles, giant storks and buffalo—check out the Okavango Delta’s islands and tangled waterways. If you’re an experienced traveler to Africa, make a trip to the western Kalahari with the Bushmen to get back to the roots of humankind. Popular operators include Wilderness Safaris and Ride Botswana with David Foot Safaris.
Uganda
Photo by Fiver Löcker
Central east Africa is the place to go for primates. The best times of year include December through March and June through October. Its thick jungles, which are home to large gorilla populations, are better for seasoned hikers. (Rwanda is good for easier treks and primate viewing.) Some of the top places to see primates include the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Queen Elizabeth National Park and Kibale National Park. Ngamba Island on Lake Victoria is home to the Chimpanzee Sanctuary and Wildlife Conservation Trust, a sanctuary that allows you to see recued primates without exerting yourself. To see the Big Five and other animals, spend some time at the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary. Murchison Falls National Park on the Nile River, Uganda’s largest national park, is home to the country’s largest population of Nile crocodiles, as well as 450 of birds and 76 species of mammals. Top operators in the country include Epic Private Journeys and Ker & Downey.