Inspirations
Kenya, Tanzania, South Africa: between destination, season and type of safari, here are the key steps to prepare your trip well.
A safari takes planning: the choice of destination, season and accommodation completely changes the experience. Here are the key decisions to make before you go.
Quick answer: For a first safari, plan 7 to 10 days between June and October (the dry season in East Africa). Kenya and Tanzania are the benchmarks for wildlife and the great migration; South Africa offers a more accessible entry point that combines easily with Cape Town. Budgets vary enormously by accommodation: from around €150 to over €800 per person per night, depending on the package.
Kenya and Tanzania are famous for the Masai Mara and the Serengeti, the great wildebeest migration and very dense wildlife. South Africa offers more accessible parks, often combined with a beach stay or a stop in Cape Town.
The dry season (June to October) remains the most recommended period: sparser vegetation makes it easier to spot animals, which gather near water sources.
From a fully-equipped lodge to tent camping in the wild, the choice of accommodation strongly affects both budget and the intensity of the experience.
Vaccinations and anti-malaria treatment, binoculars, neutral-coloured clothing, and above all a good local guide: these are the essentials for a successful safari.
Entry requirements, health and safety: check the French foreign ministry’s travel advice before booking.
| Destination | Highlights | Best time | Ideal for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kenya (Masai Mara, Amboseli) | Dense wildlife, Mara River crossings, views of Kilimanjaro from Amboseli | July to October; January-February is also dry | A first safari and the migration |
| Tanzania (Serengeti, Ngorongoro) | Vast landscapes, migration present year-round depending on the area, Ngorongoro Crater | June to October; January to March for calving | A longer, more in-depth safari |
| South Africa (Kruger, private reserves) | Big Five, simple logistics, combinable with Cape Town | May to September | A first safari, families, a range of budgets |
| Style | What it is | Indicative budget per person per night | Ideal for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Camping or mobile safari | Simple tents, 4x4 transfers, maximum immersion | €150 – €250 | Adventurous travelers, tighter budgets |
| Mid-range lodge or camp | Comfortable rooms or tents, meals and guided activities | €250 – €500 | Most first safaris |
| Luxury camp or lodge | Exclusive setting, dedicated guides, small groups | €600 – €1,000+ | Honeymoons, premium experiences |
Orders of magnitude only, varying widely by season, park and what is included (activities, park fees, transfers, drinks). Always ask for a breakdown of what is covered.
1. Underestimating the total budget: Park fees, domestic flights, transfers, drinks and gratuities often add to the displayed rates.
2. Packing in too many stops: Changing lodge every night is tiring and cuts viewing time: plan 2 nights minimum per stop.
3. Choosing the wrong season for your goal: The migration and the rainy season change the experience completely depending on the dates.
4. Neglecting health: Ask a doctor well before departure, notably about antimalarials.
5. Bringing hard suitcases: Bush planes often require soft bags and limited weight.
6. Booking too late in high season: The best lodges from July to October are full months ahead.
From June to October in East Africa (dry season) and May to September in South Africa, when vegetation is thinner and animals gather near water.
Kenya is a great choice for wildlife and the migration, Tanzania for a longer and vaster safari, South Africa for simple logistics and a flexible budget.
7 to 10 days allow 2 or 3 stops with at least 2 nights each, without spending the trip on the road.
It depends on the park, the season and your profile: a doctor or a travel vaccination center will advise you several weeks before departure.
From around €150 to over €800 per person per night depending on the accommodation. Ask for a breakdown of what is included (activities, park fees, transfers, drinks).
We advise against it: dogs are generally banned in parks and reserves, and health risks for the animal are significant.
Editorial transparency
Budgets are estimates, not guaranteed prices. Entry requirements, opening hours, prices, availability and access rules can change, so confirm relevant details with official sources and providers before booking.
Travelling with a dog? Check pet acceptance, fees and restrictions directly with each accommodation, transport provider or attraction. Spotted something that needs correcting or updating? Contact TripCompanion.
I'll help you choose the right destination, the right season and the right kind of trip.
Let's talk about your project