What You Need to Know Before Booking an African Safari

Dreaming of an African safari? Watching elephants roam the savannah, spotting lions at sunrise, and sleeping under star filled skies is on many Australians’ bucket lists. But planning a safari is very different from booking a typical holiday.

Africa isn’t a “one size fits all” destination, and the difference between a good safari and an extraordinary one often comes down to the details.

Here are 14 essential things you should know before booking a safari in Africa.

1. What You Wear on Safari Matters (More Than You Think)

Safari style isn’t just about looking the part. Neutral colours like khaki, beige, olive, and earthy tones are recommended because they blend into the environment and won’t attract insects.

Avoid dark blue and black, as these colours can attract tsetse flies in certain regions. Bright colours are also discouraged because they can startle wildlife.

When packing for safari, think functional and natural colours rather than fashion.

2. Pack Light (There’s Usually a 15kg Limit)

Many safari itineraries include small bush plane flights between camps and parks, which means luggage restrictions are strict.

Most internal safari flights allow soft luggage only, with a maximum weight of around 15kg.

The good news? Most safari lodges offer same day laundry service, so you can pack fewer clothes than you might expect.

3. Layers Are Essential

Even in warm destinations like Kenya, Tanzania, Botswana or South Africa, mornings can be surprisingly cold.

Safari days typically start before sunrise, when temperatures are at their lowest.

Bring:

• A lightweight jacket

• A scarf or buff

• A windproof layer

You’ll appreciate the extra warmth during those early game drives.

4. Speak to Your Doctor Before Booking

Different African countries have different health requirements and travel recommendations.

Before booking your safari, it’s wise to speak with your doctor or a travel clinic about:

• Vaccinations

• Malaria prevention

• Travel health advice

This ensures you’re fully prepared well before departure.

5. Consider Seeing a Travel Doctor

Your regular GP may not specialise in international travel medicine.

A travel doctor can provide up to date advice on region specific health requirements and seasonal risks.

For example, depending on where and when you travel, malaria medication may or may not be necessary.

A specialist can give you the most accurate guidance.

6. Bring Cash for Tipping

Tipping is customary on safari and appreciated by guides, trackers, and camp staff. However, once you’re deep in the bush, ATMs don’t exist.

Bringing USD cash for tips is generally recommended, although some lodges accept other currencies.

Your safari planner will usually provide tipping guidelines before departure.

7. Don’t Expect Phone Service

One of the beautiful things about safari is disconnecting. Many remote safari camps have limited or no mobile phone reception.

While some lodges offer WiFi in main areas, the experience is really about being present in nature.

For many travellers, this digital detox becomes one of the most memorable parts of the trip.

8. Choose the Right Season (for you!)

Africa isn’t a destination with a single “best time to visit.”

Different experiences happen at different times of year, including:

• The Great Migration in Kenya and Tanzania

• Green season photography

• Predator sightings

• Baby animals

Choosing the right season depends on the experience you want, which is why safari planning is so important.

9. Private Reserves vs National Parks

Not all safari areas operate the same way. Some lodges are located within private reserves, while others sit inside national parks.

Private concessions often allow:

• Off road driving

• Night game drives

• Fewer vehicles at sightings

In national parks, vehicles must stay on designated roads. This can significantly change the safari experience.

10. Not All Safaris Are Created Equal

The lodge or camp you choose has a huge impact on your safari.

Factors that influence the experience include:

• Size of the reserve

• Quality of guides

• Number of vehicles

• Wildlife density

• Camp style

Smaller camps often offer a more intimate and personalised safari.

Working with a safari specialist ensures your itinerary matches the experience you want.

11. Safari Days Start Early

Game drives usually begin before sunrise, when wildlife is most active. This might sound early, but watching the African bush wake up is unforgettable.

The golden light, the sounds of the wilderness, and the chance of seeing predators returning from a hunt make the early start completely worthwhile.

12. Don’t Forget Your Binoculars

While some lodges provide binoculars, having your own pair makes a huge difference.

Recommended sizes include:

• 8x42

• 10x42

These are perfect for spotting distant wildlife and birdlife during game drives.

13. It Will Get Dusty

Safari vehicles are often open sided, which means you’ll experience the bush up close. Dust is part of the adventure.

A light scarf or buff can help protect your face during drives and also keeps you warm on chilly mornings.

14. Planning an African Safari From Australia

Planning a safari from Australia involves many moving parts: flights, regional seasons, wildlife migrations, and lodge availability.

The difference between a good trip and an extraordinary one often comes down to expert planning and choosing the right locations.

At Travel Society, we design tailor made African safaris for travellers, ensuring every itinerary is crafted around your interests, timing, and travel style.

If Africa is on your bucket list, we’d love to help you plan it properly. Get in touch to start designing your dream safari by heading to our contact page.