Safari Planning Guide

A rushed safari is rarely the best safari. Wildlife areas need time. Roads can be long. Internal flights have schedules. Lodges are not just places to sleep; they shape the whole rhythm of the journey.

As a guide:

• 5 to 6 nights can work for a short single-country safari.
• 7 to 9 nights is stronger for a classic safari route.
• 10 to 12 nights works well for safari and beach.
• 12 to 16 nights is better for multi-country journeys or gorilla trekking combinations.

Think About Arrival and First Night

Travellers from Europe and North America often arrive after long flights. The first night should be planned carefully. Sometimes it is better to rest near the arrival city before continuing to the bush. This protects the early safari days from fatigue and missed connections.

Choose Road, Air or a Mix

Road safaris allow you to see more of the country and can reduce costs, but distances can be long. Fly-in safaris save time and often improve comfort, especially for high-end trips or routes with remote camps. Many good itineraries use a mix of both.

Match Accommodation to the Journey

Safari accommodation ranges from comfortable lodges to luxury tented camps and private conservancy stays. The best choice is not always the most expensive. Location, guiding quality, access, rooming, atmosphere and the surrounding wildlife area often matter more than star rating.

For families, check room layouts and child policies. For honeymoons, consider privacy and setting. For photographers, location and guide flexibility matter. For older travellers, access, comfort and transfer times should be considered carefully.

Plan Gorilla Trekking Early

Gorilla trekking in Uganda and Rwanda depends on permit availability. Permits are limited and should be planned early, especially during popular travel periods. The trekking day can be physically demanding, so travellers should be comfortable walking on uneven forest terrain. Porter support is usually recommended.

Add the Coast With Intention

A beach extension works best when it fits the route. Kenya safaris can pair naturally with the Kenya Coast. Tanzania safaris often connect well with Zanzibar. A beach ending after Uganda or Rwanda may also be possible, but usually needs more careful flight planning.

Budget Clearly

Safari costs vary widely because of park fees, transport, guide arrangements, accommodation level, internal flights, season, rooming and group size. A private safari for two people is usually more expensive per person than a small group because vehicle and guide costs are shared by fewer travellers.

A clear quote should show what is included, what is excluded, the payment schedule, cancellation conditions and any non-refundable items.

What to Tell Us When You Enquire

When requesting a quote, include:

• Preferred travel month or dates
• Number of travellers
• Ages of children, if any
• Country or destination interests
• Travel style and comfort level
• Approximate budget range, if available
• Whether you want a beach extension
• Any mobility, dietary, medical or special requirements
• Whether you are booking directly or through a travel advisor

Our Planning Promise

Rift & Tide Africa will help you understand the route, not just the price. We will guide you through the decisions that matter so your safari feels clear, realistic and memorable.

Start Planning Your Safari

Wildlife-filled days followed by Indian Ocean time when the rhythm and logistics make sense.