Tanzania
Tanzania is home to the Serengeti, the Ngorongoro Crater and the southern wilderness of Ruaha and Nyerere. It's the classic choice for a first safari and for following the Great Migration through most of the year.
Read the Tanzania guide
Safari Hotels
Safari travel guide
From choosing a park to packing your bag, start planning a safari that suits you.
Choose your destination
Kenya
Kenya pioneered the safari. The Maasai Mara hosts the migration from July to October, while private conservancies offer night drives, walking safaris and fewer vehicles at sightings.
Read the Kenya guide
South Africa
South Africa combines superb Big Five viewing in the Greater Kruger with easy logistics, great-value self-drive options and malaria-free reserves that suit families. Pair it with Cape Town or the Winelands.
Read the South Africa guideBefore you book
- Choose a few parks rather than spending every day in transit. Confirm transfer times with your lodge or operator.
- Ask whether meals, game drives, park fees, transfers, and drinks are included in the quoted rate.
- Check child age limits, room arrangements, and activity restrictions if travelling with family.
- For light-aircraft transfers, confirm luggage weight limits and whether soft-sided bags are required.
What to pack
- Light, neutral-coloured clothing, a warm layer for early drives, and a lightweight rain jacket.
- Comfortable closed shoes, a sun hat, sunscreen, and insect repellent.
- Binoculars, a camera, spare batteries, and suitable charging adapters.
- Your prescribed medicines, travel documents, and copies of insurance and booking details.
Documents, health & insurance
Entry requirements depend on your passport and itinerary. Check official immigration guidance before booking and again before departure. Consult a qualified travel-health professional about vaccinations and malaria prevention. Choose insurance that covers your planned activities and medical evacuation.
On safari
Follow your guide’s instructions, keep a respectful distance from wildlife, and stay in the vehicle unless your guide says it is safe to leave. Never feed animals. Ask permission before photographing people and support operators with clear conservation and community policies.