WHERE SHOULD YOU GO ON YOUR FIRST SAFARI IN AFRICA?

The African continent boasts an incredible choice of destinations home to diverse wildlife, fascinating cultures and astonishing landscapes. With so many options available, there is so much to look forward to on your first African safari. While some national parks and game reserves in Africa are better suited to seasoned safari veterans, others offer the authentic African safari experience for first-time visitors. If you are a first-time visitor, you must be lured and excited for your first-ever African safari. However, you can only enjoy the untamed natural beauty and enthralling magic of the African bushveld when you know what attracts you, your travel preferences, and expectations from your first African safari. Here’s an overview for first-time goers.

Ask yourself the following questions as they will help you decide where you should go for your first African safari!

Which animals and type of scenery attract you the most?

Game drives, hot air ballons, fly camping, walking expeditions into the wild – which of these attract you the most?

What type of travelers are you?

THE MOST POPULAR PARKS

TOP SAFARI ACTIVITIES

Game drives

You can go on a game drive in the African bush as a part of your safari itinerary. Not only will it give you a safari experience of a lifetime, but it will also give you a chance to see stunning bird and wildlife sightings.

Hot air balloons

Fly high up in the skies above the beautiful African landscape, spotting birds roosting in the treetops and animals from high above the ground. A hot air balloon safari Africa is arguably the best way to explore the expansive and dramatic African landscapes.

Fly camping

Stay out in the bush overnight away from your main camp and enjoy a magical, private and unique experience sleeping in the wilderness, watching the stars above you and hearing the magnificent sounds of the wild surrounding you.

Walking safari

Participate in the world of wildlife and get really close to nature as you choose this exciting activity to walk on slow-paced and guided treks through the bush. An African walking safari is undoubtedly one of life’s most memorable adventures.

WHAT TYPE OF TRAVELER ARE YOU?

Top first-timer picks

HONEYMOON

You will find everything in Africa, from unspoiled natural wonders and a wide variety of wildlife to many breathtaking landscapes and lush tropical rainforests. Maybe this is why Africa is declared one of the best safari and wildlife destinations in the world that offers some of the most exceptional safari and travel adventures.

With luxurious accommodations, privacy, and a once in a lifetime safari experience than anywhere else in the world, Tanzania in Africa should be right on top of your top places to visit for safari in the world. But before you start your journey, you must know which park to visit. In this case, while the Serengeti and Ngorongoro National Park seem like some obvious destinations to visit, you can also consider adding some less popular parks to your travel list.

SENIOR

For seniors, Tanzania safari tours are a chance to fulfill a dream of immersing in the rich cultures of Africa. If you are a senior seeking a memorable African safari experience that combines adventure, comfort, relaxation and cultural enrichment, worry not! The best African safari tour packages by Reality Tours & Safaris offer a great opportunity to explore the beautiful continent of Africa while ensuring top-notch comfort and convenience. Since our tours cater to comfort and accessibility, seniors can enjoy thrilling yet comfortable game drives and hassle-free accommodations amidst nature’s wonders.

FAMILY

Family safari tours offer a combination of opportunities for education and family bonding. In addition to experiencing the thrill of viewing wildlife, including animals like lions, elephants and giraffes in their natural habitat, children and adults can also learn about the environment and wildlife conservation. The best thing is that many African safari tour packages include family-friendly activities and accommodations, ensuring the best experience for all ages. That means an African safari trip is an ideal way to create unforgettable memories with family while exploring nature’s beauty.

SOLO

Safari tours in Africa will allow solo travelers to not only connect with nature but also connect with like-minded people who are on the same adventure as them. Moreover, these tours are a safe and organized way to enjoy the wilderness and the freedom to be alone. The opportunities to meet new people, share experiences and make lifelong friends are also wonderful possibilities solo safaris give. If you want to go on a journey of self discovery in one of the world’s most beautiful landscapes, a solo safari tour is all you need.

TOP FIRST-TIMER PICKS

Whether you are going to witness Ngorongoro Crater’s abundant wildlife, explore Serengeti’s endless golden plains, visit a Maasai village or be a part of the Wildebeest Migration safari in the Masai Mara, a Tanzania trip in Africa is sure to provide you with an adventure of a lifetime. From thrilling and fun game drives through iconic national parks to relaxing and spending quality time after safari on calm and beautiful beaches, check out some of the top first timer picks by Reality Tours & Safaris. Inquire now to learn more about our top African safari tour packages that include more captivating safari destinations. Do you have some specific needs or expectations from your first African safari? Not to worry! Contact us today to request a customized tour and give us a chance to craft the perfect tour based on your specific preferences and needs.

6 Days / 5 Nights Lake Manyara / Serengeti / Ngorongoro / Tarangire

Lake Manyara National Park
Serengeti National Park
Ngorongoro Crater
Tarangire National Park

4 Days / 3 Nights Lake Manyara / Serengeti / Olduvai / Ngorongoro

Lake Manyara National Park
Serengeti National Park
Olduvai Gorge
Ngorongoro Crater

3 Days / 2 Nights Tarangire / Lake Manyara / Ngorongoro Crater

Tarangire National Park
Lake Manyara – Ngorongoro
Ngorongoro – Arusha

5 Days / 4 Nights Manyara / Serengeti / Ngorongoro

Lake Manyara National Park
Serengeti National Park
Ngorongoro Crater

Contact Us

Noemi Casado, Spain

From the moment we booked our safari with Reality Tours, the service was impeccable. The staff were incredibly responsive, answering all our questions and ensuring we were prepared for our adventure in Tanzania. Our guide was not only knowledgeable about the wildlife and ecosystems but also had an infectious enthusiasm that made each day more exciting than the last. The accommodations were comfortable, and the food was delicious and thoughtfully prepared. This trip was a perfect vacation for us.

Suzanne Richard, England

I can’t thank Reality Tours enough for the incredible adventure in Tanzania, everything was perfectly organized. It was our first safari, but it definitely won’t be our last! The attention to detail, the friendly guides, and the breathtaking views made for an unforgettable journey.

Nathan Burke, USA

Reality Tours delivered an exceptional safari experience! Our family had an amazing time on our safari with Reality Tours. The kids loved learning about the animals, and the staff went out of their way to accommodate our needs. A truly special family vacation we’ll always cherish.

Jennifer Riley, USA

Our family had an incredible time with Reality Tours Tanzania! It was our first time in Africa, and we couldn’t have asked for a better introduction to the continent’s beauty. Our guide was patient with our kids, answering their endless questions about the animals and landscapes we encountered. The visit to Tarangire National Park was a highlight for us, with its diverse wildlife and stunning baobab trees. Thank you for an unforgettable experience!

John Mathew, USA

I had an amazing experience with Reality Tours Tanzania! Our safari guide was incredibly knowledgeable about the wildlife and ecosystems, making the whole trip educational as well as exciting. Seeing the Serengeti at sunrise was truly breathtaking, and I’ll never forget the moment we spotted a pride of lions resting in the shade. I highly recommend this tour company for an unforgettable adventure!

What is the perfect safari destination in Africa?

The perfect safari destinations in Africa may depend upon your preferences, but the safari places that stand in the top 5 are Kenya, Kruger National Park, Botswana, Tanzania with 24 national parks, and Serengeti National Park in Tanzania. Serengeti is surrounded by iconic wildlife which includes giant elephants, lions, giraffes, etc. The special attraction to the Serengeti is balloon safaris, it offers a breathtaking high-altitude view of the landscapes. Beyond the wildlife, Serengeti is known for its natural beauty, with amazing sunsets in the evening.

What should I pack for my first African safari?

You have to pack a few essential things that make sure about your comfort, safety, and enjoyment during your safari adventure.

●Carry long-sleeved shirts and pants to protect yourself from sun rays and insects in the forest areas.

●Pack boots along with you that are suitable for walking on safaris.

●UV-protected sunglasses to protect from the sun’s UV rays.

●Carry sunscreen and insect repellent to get rid of sunburns and insect bites.

●Take Binoculars and a camera to view wildlife and capture the moments.

●Carry all your travel documents and copies like passport, visa, travel insurance, cards etc with you.

●Move with a lightweight backpack to carry things during games and drives on safaris.

When is the best time to go on safari in Africa?

The best time to go on safari in Africa depends on your own seasonal preferences, weather changes, and wildlife moments. In general, there are two main safari seasons ie., the dry season (winter) and the wet season (summer). During the dry season, the vegetation will be less, and you can view wildlife clearly and enjoy fresh and pleasant mornings and evenings. This season offers various game viewing opportunities and can watch various migratory birds. During the wet season, there will be large landscapes, so viewing wildlife might be harder. There will be fewer tourists and prices will become low due to the off-season.

What kinds of wildlife are expected to see on African safari?

African safari offers amusing wildlife varieties in the continent’s ecosystems. The iconic wildlife you are expected to see are Lions, buffaloes, leopards, elephants, and rhinoceroses; these are collectively known as Big Five sightings on any African safari. Along with these, you can also watch animals like Giraffes, Zebras, Cheetahs, Hippos, Crocodiles, Birds etc. These are just a few known animals, you can explore incredible wildlife in the African safaris with nature’s wonders.

What are the safety measures to be taken during safari?

Safety is the primary thing you have to take care of during an African safari adventure. The necessary safety measures to consider are:

●Follow the guidelines given by instructors regarding wildlife encounters, camping etc.

●Stay inside vehicles when you are on game drives.

●Maintain a safe distance from the wilderness.

●Be aware of your surroundings when you take a walk in camping.

●Don’t eat food on safaris as animals may attract and attack you. Keep food in a secure place.

Do I need a guide for my safari, or can I go on my own?

You are advised to go along with a guide for your safaris for a safe and memorable adventure. Safari guides are trained professionals and will have knowledge of the wilderness, and ecosystems and handle animal behaviors. They always ensure visitor’s safety and reduce the risk of animal encounters. They also educate visitors about conservation efforts and eco-friendly practices. Guides usually offer cultural insights and make your safari experiences a memorable one. Hence, it is advised to go on a safari with a guide to understand the natural world with safety and amazing experience.

What transportation is used during safari?

Transportation during safaris depends on the location and the type of safari experience. Typically you can experience safaris in Africa with 4 modes of transportation, they are Safari vehicles, Walking safaris, Boat safaris, and Hot air balloons.
●Safari vehicles: Safari vehicles are generally jeeps or closed vans, they are used in game drives. These vehicles offer clear visibility and flexibility.

●Walking safaris: Walking safaris allow you to explore the wildlife on foot along with guides for your safety. It allows us to feel nature very closely.

●Boat safaris: Boat safaris are a unique safari experience to watch wildlife from rivers, and lakes. We can also explore aquatic species, it is also a perfect safari for birdwatching.

●Hot air balloons: Some safari destinations offer hot-air balloon safaris. It is an amazing experience to view the landscape and the wildlife below us. We can watch the sunrise or sunset views.

What is the average time of a safari?

The average duration of a safari generally depends on several factors based on destination and packages. Most of the safari range from a few days or weeks also. In general, there will be 3 kinds of safaris:

●Short safaris: They range from 2 to 5 days and offer a great viewing of wilderness;

●Standard safaris: Standard safaris range from 7 to 10 days and allow you to have a deep connection with nature, giving you more time to experience guided walks, game drives, and cultural experiences

●Sxtended safaris: extended safaris, may last for two weeks or more and offer to explore various destinations and several wildlife reserves. You can spend your time with wildlife and delve peacefully into the safari experience. You can choose your safari duration based on your preferences, budget and availability.

What happens if it rains during my safari?

Rain during safari is actually an amazing experience, but it might be difficult for a few people. You can be well-prepared to handle climate conditions and ensure your safety and comfort. Raining is a natural occurrence, it adds adventure to your trip and provides unique wildlife-viewing opportunities.

What activities are available on safaris?

Safaris offer many activities and provide unique experiences based on your interests and preferences. Some of the common activities available on safaris are Game drives, Walking safaris, Boat safaris, Night drives, Cultural visits, Hot air balloon safaris, Photographic safaris etc. These activities give you experience many adventures and create memorable moments.

Should I book my safari trip in advance or is any spot booking available?

It is advised to book your safari trip in advance. Spot booking might not be available in most of the cases. To experience a smooth and enjoyable experience you can book your safari trip in advance. Make sure you check your availability and plan accordingly.

Do I need to take any medications or vaccinations for my safari trip?

Yes, it is necessary to take medications and vaccinations before going on a safari trip to Africa. Ensure your routine vaccinations like polio are up to date. Take yellow fever vaccination; some countries in Africa require proof of yellow fever vaccination for entry. So check the vaccination requirements for your chosen destinations to avoid disturbances. Malaria is a widespread disease in many safari destinations in Africa, thus it is advised to take antimalarial medication.

How many kinds of safaris are available in African safaris?

You can experience a wide variety of African safaris based on your preferences and interests. The types of safaris available in Africa are:
1.Game Drives: It is a traditional safari experience that involves exploring wildlife in safari vehicles.

2.Walking Safaris: You can explore wildlife on foot and have a close connection to nature.

3.Boat Safaris: This is a unique way to observe wildlife from lakes and rivers and is ideal for birdwatching.

4.Balloon Safaris: Hot air balloon safaris provide you with an amazing view of the landscapes and wildlife.

5.Cultural Safaris: These safaris make you involved in cultural performances and interact with local people, learn about their traditional lifestyles.

6.Photographic Safaris: These are managed by professional photographers who are experts in capturing wildlife.

7.Family Safaris: These are designed for families along with children and offer activities that are kid-friendly.

What kind of safari packages are available in African safari?

African safari packages provide various offers based on your budget and interests. The common types of safari packages available are:
●Classic safari packages: Classic safari packages that include guided walks and cultural visits;

●Luxury safari packages: Luxury safari packages that include accommodations, dining, tented camps, private game drives etc;

●Customized safari packages: Customized safari packages based on your own specifications and interests.

What type of accommodations are available on safari?

Safari accommodations are available from luxurious lodges to tented camps, offering a wide range of options to meet your preferences and travel styles. At Reality Tours and Safaris, the common types of accommodations available on safari are Luxury lodges, Tented camps, Safari lodges, Bush camps, Treehouses etc.

IS THIS YOUR FIRST SAFARI?