When you fly to South Africa, you will probably have a safari tour on top of your wish list. It deserves to be there because it is an eye-opening experience. The wild gives you the real feel of life, making it ideal for adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. You can enjoy the experience alone, with friends, or with your family. The best part is that you can for it into your budget because the choice of accommodation can make a difference to the expense of the trip. A little more work, and you can have the best experience as a first-timer. Here are some tips that can help.
Time it right
The best time to travel to South Africa for a safari depends on your preference. Winter is ideal for wildlife watching because trees and shrubs are leafless during this time of the year. It aids the spotting of animals, and they tend to be out in the open in search of food and water. Remember that South African winter is around June to September, so book accordingly. You may plan a summer trip from December to February if you want to witness the lush greenery rather than the wildlife.
Book a tour with a reputed provider
It is a no-brainer because a reputed tour provider will have the right package that fits your preferences and budget. Check online reviews and recommendations to book an african safari tour with a provider you can rely on. Go through their pricing and packages, and check the destinations they cover. Right now, it is worth checking the safety protocols they follow to keep travelers safe from the pandemic risk. Picking the right package ensures that you cover everything without spending a fortune.
Carry the gear you need
On a safari tour, you will want to capture every moment as a precious memory. Carrying a high-definition camera is perhaps the best piece of advice for first-timers. Don’t rely on your cell phone for photography because it never gets your pictures right. Also, pack a pair of binoculars to see animals and birds from a distance. It is also important to dress right and carry extra clothing to keep warm and protect yourself from rain. Prepare a checklist of gear you need and follow it to ensure you are all set for the trip.
Stay safe and healthy
No one will want to fall sick in the middle of nowhere, so you must focus on health and safety while planning a safari trip. Ensure fitness and health even before embarking, and it matters more when the threat of the virus is still around. Go the extra mile with hydration when you are there. Carry healthy and nutritious snacks like nuts and seeds, wholegrain biscuits, and dried fruits to keep your energy levels up. Pack a first-aid kit with common medications, mosquito repellants, and emergency stuff. Exercise, meditate and catch up on sleep to stay fit and active.
A first-time safari experience can be exciting and daunting at the same time. Follow these tips, and you can have a great time even as a beginner.