Planning Your African Safari: A Personalized Guide for Your Journey

Embarking on an African safari is one of the most memorable and meaningful travel experiences you can have—and the planning should feel just as exciting. Below is an overview of the first key steps in shaping your ideal safari, along with helpful considerations to guide your decisions. This private page is designed exclusively for you and your family as we begin crafting a seamless, effortless journey.

1. Choosing Your Region: East Africa or Southern Africa?

Africa is vast, diverse, and full of extraordinary landscapes—each region offering a distinct safari experience.

East Africa

East Africa is known for its wide open savannas and dramatic wildlife moments. Highlights include:

• The iconic Serengeti and Maasai Mara

• The Great Migration (if timed correctly)

• Volcano-dotted landscapes and large concentrations of big cats

• Cultural experiences with Maasai and other local communities

Southern Africa

Southern Africa offers a completely different feel—rugged terrain, lush river systems, and a high diversity of safari styles.

• Exceptional private game reserves with luxurious lodges

• High chances of spotting the Big Five

• Water-based safaris in places like the Okavango Delta

• Easy combinations with Cape Town, Victoria Falls, or the Winelands

If you already have a preference for either East or Southern Africa, we will begin with that foundation. If not, we’ll walk you through each option to find the best fit for your interests and travel style.

2. When Would You Like to Travel?

Timing can significantly shape your safari experience. You mentioned May or December as possibilities—both wonderful but very different months.

If you're considering May:

• A shoulder season with fewer crowds and excellent value

• Green, beautiful landscapes following the rains

• Great game viewing in many Southern African reserves

If you're considering December:

• Beginning of the festive season—high demand, so early planning is essential

• Superb summer wildlife viewing in Southern Africa

• Peak season for East Africa’s warm and lush landscapes

Because both months book up far in advance, now is the ideal time to begin planning to ensure availability at the right camps and lodges.

Your chosen time of year may also guide which region makes the most sense—another detail we’ll help you navigate.

3. Would You Like to Include Cape Town?

Adding Cape Town to a safari itinerary is one of the most popular and rewarding combinations.

Why Cape Town is worth considering:

• A vibrant, world-class city with natural beauty at every turn

• Table Mountain, the Cape Peninsula, and incredible coastal scenery

• Exceptional dining (including Michelin-quality restaurants), wine tasting, and cultural sites

• Relaxed pace, walkable neighborhoods, and a sophisticated art and design scene

Many travelers find that pairing a few days in Cape Town with a safari offers the perfect blend of adventure, culture, landscapes, and luxury. If Cape Town appeals to you, we can design a seamless flow from city to bush.

4. How the Planning Process Works

To make your planning as effortless and enjoyable as possible, my partner and I collaborate closely on all safari itineraries.

We would be delighted to schedule a kickoff conversation with you and my safari partner. During this call we will:

• Clarify your preferences, pace, and priorities

• Discuss regions, lodges, and experiences that fit your style

• Outline a draft itinerary

• Begin securing availability at top properties

From there, we handle everything—research, coordination, logistics, transfers, dining suggestions, and more—so the entire process is truly seamless for you.

5. Estimated Budget

Safari pricing varies based on region, lodge category, time of year, and level of exclusivity. For a trip for four adults, a helpful starting guideline is:

Estimated daily budget:

• $750–$1,000+ per person, per day for a safari experience if you want luxury figure $1,500+ per person, per day.

This typically includes:

• All meals

• Twice-daily guided game drives

• Drinks (often including wine and spirits)

• Conservation fees

• Intra-Africa flights between safari camps

Cape Town or other city add-ons are typically priced separately and can be customized comfortably around your preferences.

Once we narrow down the region, dates, and style of lodges, I’ll prepare a detailed and transparent itinerary.

Next Steps

Whenever you're ready, I’ll set up our joint planning call to get everything underway. From that moment on, we take care of every detail, ensuring your safari is perfectly tailored and completely effortless from start to finish.

Amy - I look forward to creating something truly extraordinary for you and your family! See some more inspiration below….