I have an immense passion for traveling to various destinations around the globe, but Africa travel has always held a special place in my heart. My journey backpacking through Africa began in 2018, and since then, I have been captivated by its beauty and culture. Africa is a place I constantly find myself drawn back to, as each visit brings new experiences and cherished memories. As a dedicated Africa travel advisor, my goal is to assist individuals in experiencing authentic Africa travel in a safe and ethical manner, while ensuring their journey is filled with fun and adventure.
A common question we receive is: what country offers the best safari opportunities? The brief answer is, your safari adventure will be tailored to meet your expectations. While South Africa, Kenya, Botswana, and Tanzania are all amazing places to visit, they each offer a one-of-a-kind safari experience for travelers.
I would love to share some of my experiences with you from my 14-day African journey to South Africa and Botswana. I am grateful for the opportunity to have visited both countries before. This was my first time experiencing a safari in both countries during one vacation, which allowed me to directly juxtapose and differentiate these unique experiences.
In South Africa, particularly in the Sabi Sands area, most camps feature hard-sided accommodations with air conditioning and, in some cases, a private plunge pool. The rooms are spacious and well-appointed, varying in size from six to twenty rooms.
In Botswana, most camps offer tented accommodations with canvas sides and roofs. It is important to note that many camps do not include air conditioning or swimming pools, allowing guests to enjoy the symphony of nature's sounds, including crickets, frogs, monkeys, and lions. The majority of camps in Botswana have 12 rooms or fewer.
South Africa offers direct flights from the US to Johannesburg and Cape Town. From there, travelers typically fly into Mpumalanga, Hoedspruit, or Skukuza, followed by a transfer to their camp, ranging from a quick 10-minute drive to a scenic 3-hour journey through the beautiful South African landscape.
In Botswana, there are no direct flights from the US, so staying overnight in Johannesburg is likely before continuing to Botswana. After reaching Maun, you'll board a smaller bush plane to an airstrip near your camp. Most airstrips are within a 20-30 minute drive from your camp, ensuring a convenient and efficient journey to your destination.
When visiting South Africa, expect to spend 95% of your time on a game vehicle safari. While some lodges may offer nature walks in between drives, the range of safari activities is somewhat limited.
In contrast, Botswana provides a variety of safari experiences depending on the season. Visitors can enjoy game drives, boat cruises, canoe trips, mokoro rides, and walking safaris in numerous locations.
South Africa offers year-round opportunities for safari adventures, ensuring the chance to witness incredible wildlife. The dry season presents optimal conditions for spotting animals as they are not obscured by tall grasses and foliage.
Botswana is a stunning destination, but it’s preferable to avoid visiting from October to January due to extreme heat. The peak season in Botswana is during June, July, and August, but costs can be higher during this time, sometimes even double at many camps.
Africa is home to magnificent wildlife. Picture yourself in a thrilling safari in the Serengeti or Kruger National Park, spotting lions, elephants, and giraffes in their natural habitat. Experience the Great Migration, a real-life National Geographic moment.
From the golden dunes of the Sahara Desert to the lush forests of the Congo Basin, Africa is a land of contrasts. Stand in awe of Table Mountain in South Africa and the iconic Victoria Falls—both are breathtaking.
Africa is a melting pot of over 3,000 tribes and hundreds of languages. Experience the Maasai traditions in Kenya or explore the pyramids of Egypt. History lovers will enjoy Ethiopia’s rock-hewn churches and the archaeological sites of Luxor.
Consider climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, diving with great white sharks, or hot air ballooning over the Maasai Mara.
Africa is known for its warm hospitality. Enjoy local customs and authentic cuisines like spicy tagine or Nigerian jollof.
Many African tours focus on sustainability and conservation. Support wildlife protection and local communities—it’s travel that makes a difference.
From the majestic Victoria Falls to surreal Seychelles beaches and Namibia's Sossusvlei dunes, Africa invites you to explore its beauty.
Relax on the pristine beaches of Zanzibar or the exclusive island resorts of the Seychelles. Imagine white-water rafting on the Zambezi River or participating in conservation projects, like tracking gorillas in Uganda or Rwanda.
Let’s create an itinerary that turns your travel dreams into reality and unforgettable memories!
Oct. 6, 2024
Oct. 6, 2024
Oct. 6, 2024
Oct. 6, 2024
Oct. 6, 2024