Safari Choices
 

My husband and I are in the process of planning a Safari to Africa (probably in the Autumn of 2007) We have heard great things about both the Kenya/Tanzania Safari's as well as South Africa. This may be a once in a lifetime opportunity.We are looking at a 15 to 17 day Safari with the focus on seeing the most animals as we possibly can. We would certainly appreciate
some advice on whether South Africa or Kenya/Tanzania is the best way to go, as well as any other assistance relative to timing, tours,etc. Thanks so much!

September thru October are excellent for East Africa, especially the Masai Mara in Kenya. This can be combined numerous other stops in Kenya, as well as time in Tanzania... maybe concluding we some R&R on the coast or coastal island.

During this time you can include some cultural activities/visits.

Be aware that these months are high-season in East Africa, so planning at this time is not too early for a year from now.

There are many choices for accommodations, depending on your budget... can be lodges, permanent tent camps, seasonal/mobile tent camping or budget.

As you will notice from many of the postings on this board, most choose to go the independent route of a private safari where you can design your own itenerary - where, for how long, type of accommodations.

And a search on this board will bring up a list of operators and/or outfitters who can design and handle your needs.

If you'd provide this additional information, you'll get ideas and answers.

The East vs. South/Southern Africa decision is a tough one.

I chose South Africa (and Namibia) over East Africa because I was attracted to the option of self-driving in South Africa, with the option of doing other activities on a sort of "a la carte" basis. I also wanted to do a walking safari and found one in South Africa for a price I could afford. I also felt a bit overwhelmed with the number of East Africa options (tours, lodges, etc.).

However, only East Africa has the great wildebeest migration. I'm still going to try to see that before I die.
Each region sounds equally great for different reasons.

Hi, My husband and I just return from a 13 day trip to Tanzania. You might check out the company that we used who come highly recommended by a very wel known travel magazine. The company is www.2afrika.com. We had a fantastic time and saw tons of animals. We picked a trip that did ALL game drives and we never got tired of it because we moved from place to place. Good Luck !!!! Lisa

Lisa, I know a lot of us would welcome the opportunity to read a report on your trip. And, photos would be icing on the cake. We have used same company as you. By chance was Godfrey your guide? Dick