Frequently Asked Questions

It depends on the destination and what you most want to experience.

Southern Africa (Botswana, South Africa, Zimbabwe): The dry season (May to October) is ideal for wildlife viewing.
East Africa (Kenya, Tanzania): For the Great Migration, aim for July to October.
Green Season (November to March): Offers lush landscapes, exceptional birdlife, fewer tourists, and better rates.

Safari pricing varies based on country, style, and season:
• Classic safari camps: from US$700–1,200 per person per day
• Luxury safaris: from US$1,500–2,000+ per person per day
• Ultra-luxury or specialist safaris: US$3,000+ per day
• Mobile safaris: offer excellent value with full-service experiences in more rustic settings

Yes. For peak seasons or exclusive lodges, book 12–18 months in advance. That said, we can sometimes build outstanding safaris with less notice.

Yes — when booked with a trusted operator and you follow your guide’s instructions. All our guides are professionally trained. We also monitor your trip in real time through our Safari Sentinel service.

We only recommend experiences and lodges we’d be happy for our own adult children to undertake as solo travellers.

Mobile safaris offer comfort, immersion, and flexibility. A typical day includes:
• Early wake-up, coffee and sunrise game drive
• Bush breakfast and midday rest
• Afternoon tea and evening game drive with sundowners
• Dinner and conversation around the fire

Spacious tents include real beds, private bucket showers, and en-suite toilets.

Only on low-cost safaris that mention your "Participation" in these chores. Otherwise, everything is taken care of — unless you’d like to join in!

• Don’t display valuables
• Use a zipped daypack or crossbody bag
• Stick with pre-arranged transfers
• Lock vehicle doors and keep windows up at stops
• Be respectful and avoid confrontational behaviour with officials

Cities and towns have good coverage. Remote safari camps may have no reception and slow or no Wi-Fi.

• Use local SIM or data SIM
• Use WhatsApp for calls and messages
• Turn off international roaming unless prearranged
• Use a VPN when accessing personal accounts on public networks

• Consult a travel doctor 6 months before departure
• Consider vaccines: Yellow Fever (if required), Hepatitis A/B, Typhoid, Polio, Tetanus, COVID-19
• Malaria prophylaxis may be required (e.g., Malarone or Doxycycline)
• Avoid Lariam and chloroquine
• Travel insurance with medical evacuation is essential

• Neutral, breathable clothing (khaki, beige, green)
• Layers for warm days and chilly mornings
• Closed shoes or boots (required for walking safaris)
• Sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, insect repellent
• Camera, binoculars, power bank
• Duffel bag (not hard-shell luggage)

Not at all. Lodges are casual and comfort is key. In cities, smart-casual is suitable for evenings out.
Dinner on a Rovos train is an elegant affair and "formal" attire is expected.

• Commercial flights: ~20kg checked + 7kg carry-on
• Safari flights: 15kg total in soft-sided bags only
• Hard-shell cases may be refused on charter/safari flights
• Luggage storage can be arranged if needed

Yes — typically available at lodges for stays of two nights or more. One-night stops do not offer laundry services.

• South Africa: Visa-free for AU/UK/NZ/USA
• Botswana: Visa-free for most Western travellers
• Kenya: eTA required for most Western travellers
• Namibia: Visa on arrival or eVisa required for most Western travellers
• Tanzania: eVisa required for most Western travellers
• Uganda: Visa required for most Western travellers
• Zambia: Visa not required for most Western travellers
• Zimbabwe: Visa on arrival or eVisa required

Ensure your passport is valid for 6 months beyond your return and has two blank facing pages per country.

• Guides: US$10–$20 per person/day
• Lodge staff: US$10–$15 per person/day (via tip box)
• Porters/drivers: US$1–$2 per bag/service
• Restaurants: 10–15%

Carry small USD notes or local currency for tipping.

Yes. Many guests combine safaris with Cape Town, Victoria Falls, Zanzibar, wine country, cultural stops, or a beach break. Just ask!

Yes — subject to availability. Private departures are popular for families and groups of friends. Early enquiries are best.

Contact us through our Contact Page or email [email protected].

We’ll guide you through itinerary options, then design an itinerary just for you, usually at a lower total cost than if you "book on the internet.".

Booking direct might seem cheaper, but it rarely is. We have access to the same rates, often with added value — and you’ll benefit from expert planning, tailored advice, and real-time support from our Safari Sentinel service.

The Big Five — lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, rhino — are all possible to see in key areas. Some parks are better for certain species. Let us know what you’re hoping for, and we’ll tailor accordingly.

Yes. We design safaris with pace and comfort in mind. Many of our guests are in their 70s or 80s. We match you with lodges that offer easy access, attentive service, and gentle activities if preferred.

Absolutely. Solo travellers are welcome at all camps and lodges. Some waive the single supplement in low season. We’ll advise on the most welcoming and well-hosted options for independent travellers.

Yes — but it depends on the destination and the child’s age. Some lodges are family-friendly with kids’ programs, while others have age minimums (often 6–12 years). We’ll help you choose the right experience for your family.

Yes, and most guests do. Some camps offer specialist photographic vehicles and guides. If photography is important to you, let us know so we can recommend the right camps and best season.

Yes. Walking safaris are available in many areas and are led by armed, trained guides. These range from short interpretive walks to multi-day adventures. Minimum age and fitness levels may apply.

Yes. Safari lodges cater to dietary preferences and restrictions with advance notice. We always communicate your needs ahead of time to ensure you’re well looked after.

In safari camps and lodges, drinking water is provided and safe. In some cities or public areas, bottled or filtered water is recommended. We provide clear guidance throughout your trip.

Yes — but power supply varies. Most lodges have charging stations in tents or main areas. Bring a universal adapter, power bank, and spare batteries for cameras. Some mobile camps rely on solar power.

We monitor your itinerary in real time through our Safari Sentinel service. If there’s a disruption, we notify drivers and activate contingency plans to keep your safari on track — without the stress falling on you.

Yes — it’s essential. Your policy should include comprehensive medical coverage, evacuation, and cancellation. We can recommend providers familiar with African travel requirements.

The day you pay your deposit. Travel insurance should be in place before any cancellation penalties apply — which is usually from the moment your booking is confirmed. Early cover can protect you if unexpected events force a change of plans, depending on your policy.

Once you're ready to confirm your booking, we’ll send you an invoice. You contract directly with us and pay us directly — there's no third-party agent involved. Payment is typically made by bank transfer or credit card, and we’ll provide full details at the time of booking.

Most lodges are cashless, but small amounts of cash (USD or local currency) are useful for tipping, markets, and minor expenses. ATMs are available in cities. We’ll advise what’s appropriate per country.

Game drives usually start just after dawn, often with coffee and a snack beforehand. Exact times vary with the season and daylight. Afternoon drives begin mid-afternoon and return after sundown.

Nights and early mornings can be chilly, especially in winter in Southern Africa (June–August). Bring a warm jacket or fleece and long trousers. Many lodges offer hot water bottles and blankets for game drives.

Yes — when done responsibly, travel is a powerful force for good. Tourism creates livelihoods, supports conservation, and helps protect wild places that might otherwise be lost. At Experiential Travel, we only recommend camps and lodges that are deeply committed to their communities and ecosystems. Ethical, conservation-driven employment provides real alternatives to poaching and unsustainable land use — making your safari part of the solution.

We’ll help you travel responsibly: stay in low-impact camps, support local communities, avoid plastics, and follow ethical wildlife practices. Every safari we build is designed with sustainability in mind.

Yes — in Uganda or Rwanda. Gorilla permits are limited and should be booked early. These experiences are physically demanding and incredibly rewarding. Let us know if primate trekking is of interest.

Yes — and many guests do. Popular combinations include Tanzania + Zanzibar, Kenya + Lamu, or safari + Mauritius or the Seychelles. Let us tailor a balance of adventure and relaxation.

Yes. The Indian Ocean offers world-class reefs off the coasts of Zanzibar, Mozambique, and Kenya. We can integrate a marine extension before or after your safari.

Yes, but please let us know in advance. Some camps rely on solar or generator power, so we’ll ensure you're placed where overnight electricity or battery charging is available. A portable battery may be required.

Yes — some lodges offer yoga platforms, massages, and spa treatments. Others provide peaceful spaces perfect for solo practice. Let us know your wellness goals and we’ll suggest the best options.

No — drones are not allowed in national parks or conservancies without special permits, and most lodges prohibit them due to guest privacy and wildlife disturbance. Photography is welcome — just not by drone.

Food is typically excellent — fresh, seasonal, and beautifully presented. Expect three-course dinners, bush breakfasts, and afternoon teas. Most dietary needs are easily accommodated with advance notice.

Most safari regions carry some malaria risk, though actual incidence is low and depends on the season. Preventive medication is usually recommended. We’ll let you know what's advised based on your itinerary and travel season.  There are a few lovely safari areas in South Africa that are Malaria-free.

Not necessarily. Game drives are suitable for all fitness levels. If you’d like walking safaris, gorilla trekking, or active add-ons, we’ll tailor accordingly. Many camps cater beautifully to older guests or those with mobility concerns.

Yes — most camps have a well-stocked bar, including house wines and local spirits. Sundowners are a safari tradition. Just be aware that early mornings and wildlife proximity call for moderation. Premium selections may cost extra.

In many cases, yes. If you’ve travelled with us before or have heard great things about someone specific, we’ll do our best to arrange it — especially on private departures or mobile safaris.

Yes — but it's best done thoughtfully. We recommend supporting vetted community projects through lodges we trust. Let us guide you on what’s genuinely helpful and welcome.

Yes. We pace your itinerary carefully, with downtime between activities. Many guests enjoy reading, napping, or watching wildlife pass by from the deck of their tent or lodge.

We recommend 10–14 days for a balanced safari — with time to explore 2–3 regions without feeling rushed. That includes travel time within Africa and optional time in Cape Town, Victoria Falls, or on the coast.

In major cities, it can be useful for small purchases or tipping. In safari camps, almost everything is included except tips. We’ll advise what’s needed for each country.