Quick Guide to Your Ideal Safari

Every traveller is different, some want to chase lions at sunrise, others prefer long lunches overlooking the delta and many want a combination of the two! If you’re in a hurry to choose and know your instincts for the type of traveller you are, here’s a quickfire guide to help you choose the safari that best fits your interests, travel style, and priorities.

If you want… iconic wildlife and drama

Think of the Great Migration, the Big Five and sweeping savannahs.

Best destinations: Kenya (Masai Mara), Tanzania (Serengeti), South Africa (Sabi Sands).

Best time: June–October for classic dry-season game viewing.

If you want… fewer crowds and authentic wilderness

Private concessions and quiet reserves offer exclusivity and space.

Best destinations: Botswana, Zambia, Namibia.

Best time: May–October for dry-season clarity.

Backyard patio with built-in curved concrete seating around a fire pit, cushions, surrounded by trees and palm trees during twilight, with a house and outdoor seating area in the background.
Outdoor deck at night with seating, lanterns, fire pit, and lit trees in the background.

If you want… family-friendly comfort

Easy logistics, malaria-free parks, and lodges designed for children.

Best destinations: South Africa (Madikwe, Waterberg), Malawi (Lake Malawi), Kenya (Laikipia).

Best time: April–September, avoiding the hottest months.

If you want… romance and seclusion

Remote camps, private dinners, and stargazing from your deck.

Best destinations: Botswana, Tanzania + Zanzibar, Mozambique islands.

Best time: May–October for clear skies and cool evenings.

If you want… walking, canoeing or adventure

Get close to nature on foot or water, guided by experts.

Best destinations: Zambia (South Luangwa, Lower Zambezi), Zimbabwe (Mana Pools), Namibia (desert treks).

Best time: June–October for dry ground and low vegetation.

A kudu zebra standing in a dry, wooded area with green leaves and sparse dry grass.

If you want… to focus on photography

Open terrain, dramatic light, and professional guides.

Best destinations: Kenya, Botswana, Namibia, Zimbabwe.

Best time: May–October for dry air and sharp contrast.

If you want… rare species and unique ecosystems

Lemurs, desert-adapted elephants, whale sharks or shoebills.

Best destinations: Madagascar, Namibia, Malawi, Uganda.

Best time: June–September for best conditions.

If you want… beach and bush in one trip

Combine safari with turquoise water and downtime.

Best destinations: Tanzania + Zanzibar, Kenya + Lamu, Mozambique coast.

Best time: June–October, though tropical beaches are year-round.

Outdoor luxury outdoor living space at sunset with a fire pit surrounded by cushions, a modern house with large glass windows, and trees in the background.

If you want… conservation impact

Travel that gives back — meet rangers and researchers.

Best destinations: Kenya (Lewa, Laikipia), Zambia, Namibia.

Best time: Any time — projects run year-round.

If you want… shorter safaris

Perfect for regional travellers or as an add-on to another destination.

Best destinations: Botswana (Okavango), Zambia (Lower Zambezi), Uganda (Bwindi), Mozambique coast.

Best time: May–October for reliability and flight schedules.

If you want… luxury and design

Private lodges, personal guides, and attention to detail.

Best destinations: Botswana, Namibia, Tanzania, South Africa.

Best time: Year-round — lodges are fully equipped for all seasons.

A monkey is mid-air jumping between tree branches in a clear sky setting.

If you want… value and smaller crowds

Green-season safaris offer exceptional quality and calm.

Best destinations: Zambia (Nov–Apr), Tanzania (Mar–May), South Africa (Jan–Apr).

Best time: Typically November to April — landscapes are lush, rates are lower, and new-born wildlife is abundant.

If you want… a once-in-a-lifetime celebration

Perfect for honeymoons, anniversaries or milestone birthdays.

Best destinations: Botswana (Delta), Kenya (conservancies + coast), South Africa (safari + Winelands).

Best time: May–October for dry weather and easy connections.

If you want… a different perspective

Consider hot-air balloon safaris, horse riding, or mobile tented camps.

Best destinations: Kenya, Tanzania, Botswana, Namibia.

Best time: Dry season for stability and clear air.

Still not sure? Speak to one of our safari designers, we’ll match you to the right destinations and lodges based on how you like to travel.

A lion walking through a shallow body of water surrounded by tall grasses.