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Factors To Consider When Planning An African Safari

By Dorothy Stone


Africa is blessed with a vast population of wildlife that has fascinated travelers for centuries. In the earlier centuries, the continent was a popular destination for hunters who thronged the plains in search in search of game trophies that were hung on walls. Today, this trend has changed because more and more travelers come to the continent in search of memories and photos of spectacular game activity. Many travelers come on an African safari in search of the big five land animals including buffalo, leopards, lions, rhinoceroses and elephants.

However, planning a trip to Africa is nothing like the typical trip to the zoo. The chance to see animals within their natural habitats is an experience like no other. Safaris are physically strenuous and taxing. As most of the popular destinations are in developing African states, a few precautionary measures need to be taken like health and safety precautions. So while preparing for the trip, find good guidebooks, read many reviews on travel websites and blogs, talk to friends who have been to the continent and get a reliable travel guide.

There are different distinct packages available. So consider which one will best suit your needs in terms of what you want to see, cost and services offered. Most are double occupancy but there are also family and single ones available. Luxury safaris are typically very expensive because they include high quality services covering food, drinks, tours and excursions. Some can cost over one thousand dollars per night. Overland or mobile safaris are a cheaper option. They have campsite accommodations and involve travelling in groups while sharing resources. Adventurous persons can choose to drive through the land without a guide. They need to hire a car for the same.

Consider which destination one wants to visit and what game is available there. Popular destinations include Southern and East African countries. Tanzania and Kenya are famous for their rich herds of animals like antelopes and zebras as well as the Wildebeest migration, which is the seventh wonder of the world. Uganda is home to many primates while the Southern part of the continent holds about eighty percent of the total elephant population.

The best time to come to this continent is also dependent on which destination one wants to visit. Summer in Africa is from December to March while winter runs from June to September. It is best to travel during the dry season. Other considerations include the migration patterns of wildlife such as the wildebeest migration in Kenya and Tanzania.

Due to the large number of diseases on the continent, it is highly advised to get vaccination before leaving home, this will protect against contacting dangerous diseases like Hepatitis A or B, typhoid and yellow fever. Malaria is preventable by giving of a treatment and using mosquito repellents and nets.

Beware of fraudsters and conmen who run travel scams. They target unsuspecting tourists and visitors. Make sure to do a thorough background check before paying for anything. Good travel agents are found online as well as their reviews and ratings on sites like Trip Advisor. Ask for refund policies.

Be sure to remain safe during the trip and stay in communication with your family and the embassy. Before and during your trip, check for any updates and travel advisories from the State Department. Get medical cover and travel insurance.




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