Frequently Asked Questions
Planning Your Safari, Made Clear.
From choosing the right season and understanding how private safaris work to packing, payments and what to expect on the ground, here are answers to some of the questions travellers ask us most often.
Before you travel
Useful answers for a smoother journey.
Every safari is different, so some details will depend on your itinerary, destination, season and travel style. These FAQs provide a practical starting point, while your final travel documents should always contain the specific information relevant to your own trip.
Ask us directly.
If your question is specific to your dates, camp, route or personal requirements, contact our team and we can give you a more relevant answer.
Find your answer.
Jump directly to the section most relevant to your question.
Planning Your Safari
How far in advance should I start planning?
Earlier planning usually gives you a wider choice of camps, room types and routing, especially if your dates are fixed or you plan to travel during a popular period.
That said, shorter-notice journeys may still be possible depending on availability. The best approach is to contact us once you have a rough idea of your dates and priorities.
What is the best time of year to go on safari?
There is no single best time for every traveller. The right season depends on the destinations you want to visit, the wildlife experiences you care about most, your preferred landscapes and how busy or quiet you want the journey to feel.
Can you design a fully tailor-made safari?
Yes. Our approach is based around private, tailor-made planning. We shape the route, accommodation, pacing and experiences around your dates, interests, group and travel style rather than asking you to choose from a fixed package.
Can safari be combined with the coast or another destination?
Yes. Safari and beach combinations are especially popular, and your itinerary can also be shaped around multiple regions where routing and travel time make sense.
Booking & Payments
How does the booking process work?
We begin by understanding your dates, interests and preferred style of travel. Once the proposed journey has been refined, you will receive the relevant booking information and payment instructions for your itinerary.
What deposit is required?
Deposit requirements can depend on the specific itinerary and supplier terms. The exact amount and payment schedule should be confirmed in your booking documentation before payment is made.
What is the cancellation policy?
Cancellation terms can vary depending on the timing of cancellation and the conditions applied by the lodges, transport providers and other suppliers included in your itinerary. Refer to the booking terms provided with your trip.
Travel & Documents
Do I need a visa or travel authorisation?
Entry requirements depend on your nationality, passport and destination. Because rules can change, travellers should verify current requirements through the relevant official government or immigration source before departure.
Do I need travel insurance?
Comprehensive travel insurance is strongly recommended for safari travel. Your policy should be suitable for the destinations, activities and arrangements included in your trip, and you should understand the insurer’s terms and exclusions.
What health preparation should I consider?
Health requirements and recommendations vary by destination and individual circumstances. Seek advice from a qualified medical professional or travel health clinic in good time before departure.
What to Expect on Safari
Are wildlife sightings guaranteed?
No. Wildlife is free-ranging and its movement is influenced by weather, water, vegetation and many other natural factors. Good guiding and thoughtful routing improve the experience, but specific sightings or behaviours cannot be guaranteed.
What does a typical safari day look like?
The rhythm varies by destination and camp, but safari days often make use of the cooler morning and later-afternoon periods. Private arrangements may allow more flexibility around departure times, meals and how long you remain at a sighting.
Will we have a private guide and vehicle?
Where your itinerary has been designed as a private safari, the relevant guiding and vehicle arrangements should be stated clearly in your proposal. Some camp-based activities may operate differently, so always check the inclusions for your specific journey.
Packing & Preparation
What should I pack for safari?
Comfortable layers, practical footwear, sun protection and clothing suited to your destinations are a good starting point. Your final packing list should take account of the season, altitude, activities and any luggage restrictions on your itinerary.
Are there luggage restrictions?
Luggage limits may apply, particularly when small aircraft are used. Limits can differ by operator, so the allowance relevant to your journey should be confirmed in your travel documents.
Can I bring camera equipment?
Yes, but photographers carrying larger lenses, multiple bodies or substantial equipment should let us know during planning. This can affect luggage considerations, vehicle configuration and the overall structure of a photography-focused safari.
Families & Private Groups
Is safari suitable for children?
Safari can be a memorable family experience, but the right itinerary depends on the children’s ages, interests and tolerance for driving and early starts. Some properties and activities may also have age policies that need to be considered.
Can you arrange travel for a private group?
Yes. Private groups can be planned around shared interests, preferred accommodation, group size and the pace that works best for everyone travelling together.
Can dietary or accessibility requirements be considered?
Tell us about important requirements as early as possible. We can then check what is practical across the proposed route, accommodation and transport, rather than making assumptions about what each property can provide.