How to Choose a Safari Lodge

Not all safari lodges or destinations are created equal. Asking the right questions early will help you find the park and property that align with your travel style, comfort level, budget, and expectations. This upfront clarity makes all the difference in ensuring the safari experience you envision for yourself and your travel partners.

Price

Safari lodges range from simple tented camps to ultra-luxury properties, so beginning with a clear budget helps narrow your search and avoid miscommunication.

Many lodges are all-inclusive, which means the higher upfront cost often covers: meals, drinks, game drives, park fees, and sometimes transfers. Always confirm what’s included so you have an accurate sense of the true value.

Lodge size

Smaller lodges often provide a more intimate, personalized experience but may have fewer amenities. Larger lodges tend to offer more facilities like multiple dining venues, spas, and pools, but with a higher guest count.

To determine what’s right for you, ask yourself: How do I want to feel at the lodge? Cozy and remote, like you’re the only guests in the bush? Or social and active?

If you dream of a remote, fully immersive experience, consider a small lodge and skip some of the traditional hotel comforts. Trust me, you’ll be so engaged in wildlife and daily game drives that you won’t miss them.

However, comfort does matter! A tented camp may sound romantic, but it can also mean insects, heat, and no air-conditioning. On the other hand, luxury lodges offer modern comforts, but at a higher price.
Ask yourself: What level of comfort do I truly want on safari and how does that impact my budget

Wildlife experience

Not all parks and seasons offer the same wildlife experience. South Africa, for example, offers frequent sightings of the Big 5, but usually in smaller herds. Destinations like Tanzania or Botswana could offer gigantic herds and experiences like the Great Migration, but may have more time between animal sightings. If babies or specific animals matter, inquire about mating, calving, and migration seasons to ensure you maximize your chances.

Travel logistics

Entrances to some parks like Welgevonden in South Africa are as easy as a three-hour drive from a major airport. Others require an extra charter flight once you land in Africa, which can extend travel time and cost. Their remote locations can also make getting between lodges challenging. Think about how much time and money you want to spend traveling to your lodge and how that could impact your overall budget and the feel of your trip.

Connecting multiple lodges or parks

Just because you’ve arrived in Africa, doesn’t mean destinations are close together. For example, East Africa and Southern Africa is not typically a smooth pairing. Traveling between them can add an entire day of travel in the middle of your trip, possibly with a connection.

East Africa is best paired with an add-on like the Seychelles, while Southern Africa pairs well with Cape Town or the Winelands.

Early mornings are part of the experience. Morning game drives typically leave before sunrise. While you’ll have plenty of downtime between drives, expect early wake-up calls and magical mornings in the bush.

Temperatures can swing dramatically: Safari vehicles are usually open-air, meaning you’re fully exposed to the elements. Early mornings and late afternoons can be quite chilly, even in warm seasons, while midday sun can be intense.

Bring layers, including a jacket and a safari hat.

Safari lodges are remote by design. After your transfer, you’ll spend most of your time between drives on the property, which is why choosing the right lodge is so important. Your research (or your travel advisor) makes all the difference.

There is no nightlife in the bush. Be prepared to settle into your lodge between drives. Bring a great book and take advantage of the amazing opportunity to disconnect while you’re in nature.

Vaccines and health considerations: Some safari regions still recommend or require preventative medications for things like malaria. However, many reserves like Welgevonden in South Africa are malaria-free, which simplifies pre-trip medical planning. Always check health requirements early in your planning process.

Safari packing list

• Clothing and layers: rain coat, sweaters, long pants like khakis, bug spray, bandana or scarf, sun glasses, safari hat (yes, the kind with the string and wide brim), boots, sneakers, long socks.

• Gear: Camera with lenses for distance, chargers and memory cards, binoculars, bug spray, sunscreen, a small daypack for drives or bush walks.

For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our safari page.