PLANNING THE PERFECT SAFARI MEANS HAVING A VERY GOOD CHECKLIST

03-02-2009

A little planning goes a long way when arranging an African safari.  Africa specialists Aardvark Safaris has produced a ‘how to plan the perfect safari’ checklist, making it easier than ever to experience the African bush.

When to go

January to March:  Spectacular wildlife viewing in Kenya, Tanzania - wildebeest calving in the southern Serengeti - and South Africa. 

April to June:  Wonderfully lush and green in the classic safari destinations of Botswana and Zambia.  The Victoria Falls are at their most spectacular around April/May.

July to September:  Excellent throughout Southern and East Africa.  The wildebeest migration is in full swing in Kenya’s Masai Mara, while the waters of Botswana’s  Okavango Delta are at their peak.  A good time to track mountain gorillas in Uganda and Rwanda.

October to December – Zambia’s peak game viewing season is October with huge numbers of elephant and good chances of leopard sightings. Whale watching season in South Africa and the wildebeest herds are crossing back into Tanzania’s Serengeti.

What to see

The Big Five: lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo and rhino. You can see the Big Five in Kenya, Tanzania, Zambia, Botswana, Namibia and South Africa, but only a few parks and reserves offer all five at the same time.  These include the Serengeti National Park in Tanzania, Masai Mara Game Reserve in Kenya, Kruger National Park in South Africa

 What to do

Traditional game drives are the best way to see the Big Five, usually in a sturdy 4x4 jeep. Other types of game drives include riding on camels, walking on foot, in a boat or canoe, by hot-air balloon and on horseback.

Where to stay

You can choose from classic camps where comfortable tents have proper beds, showers and toilets; thatched-roof lodges with viewing platforms and open air dining, or luxury lodges with private plunge pools and personal butlers.  Your choice will depend on your budget and the type of vacation you want to experience.  Prices range from $350 to $1,400 per person per night.

What To Pack

-Anti-malaria pills

- Sunblock – spf 50

- Sunglasses

- Thick-soled walking boots

- Sandals

- Binoculars, camera and accessories (remember spare batteries)

- Casual lightweight cotton, khaki or neutral-colored clothes

- Sweater, light jacket or windbreaker, just in case it gets cool at night. 

- Swimsuits and shorts and a few T-shirts for lounging by the pool

- Wide brimmed hat; baseball caps won’t do; think Indiana Jones’ hat

To book a safari of a lifetime, Aardvark Safaris (www.aardvarksafaris.com) 1 888 776-0888; info@aardvarksafaris.com.

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