Planning a safari can be overwhelming. From choosing the perfect destination to booking flights, accommodations and activities, a lot goes into organizing what some consider a once-in-a-lifetime vacation. While many travelers use the Internet or consult with friends for inspiration or planning their regular travels, planning a safari could not be more different. In this blog, we’ll explore why using a tour operator to plan your safari will help you have a seamless travel experience, take away the stress of planning and help you make the most of your safari adventure.
One of the main reasons to use a tour operator like Africa Adventure Consultants is to tap into our wealth of experience and local knowledge. With nearly 200 years of combined experience planning African safaris, we know the best camps and lodges, work with the best guides, know of unique hidden gems and offer activities to please everyone – from young kids to grandparents.
In addition to our own expertise, we work with respected local guides and partners who understand each of our destinations inside and out. This means you can enjoy a more authentic experience, discover off-the-beaten-path wonders and avoid crowded areas that can leave other travelers feeling disappointed. Working with an expert provides a level of insider knowledge that can turn an ordinary trip into an extraordinary one.
Planning a trip can be fun, but it can also be a lot of work. While you might find safari options and packages for sale online, why not choose a safari that is designed just for you? Creating an itinerary that balances the excitement of seeing Africa’s incredible wildlife in its best parks and reserves while staying in accommodations that allow you to maximize your enjoyment of the overall experience is what we are best at. We specialize in creating carefully curated custom itineraries that match your specific interests, budget and travel preferences. Whether you’re looking for a fast-paced adventure or a safari with built-in down time, we will design a personalized itinerary that fits your style.
When planning a safari, the logistics can be daunting for travelers. Choosing a destination, deciding on accommodations (A tented camp? Lodge? Hotel?), booking regional and internal flights, figuring out transportation between destinations and researching activities can take an immense amount of time and leave you frustrated trying to make decisions. Our Journey Specialists will work with you to understand your needs and wants, then take care of every detail for you, allowing you to focus on what really matters – enjoying your safari!
From start to finish, we manage the entire process, ensuring everything runs smoothly. Need a last-minute change or adjustment? We have the experience to handle it with minimal disruption to your plans. We take the stress and guesswork out of travel, so you can simply show up and enjoy.
At AAC, we have special access to exclusive discounts, offers and perks that are unavailable to the general public. Because of our decades-long relationships with camps, lodges and local partners, we can often secure better rates or packages that you wouldn’t find booking on your own. Our returning travelers also enjoy additional discounts and perks.
We are here for you throughout the entire trip process. You will have a dedicated Safari Concierge to answer your questions about visa requirements, flights, entry requirements, packing and more. While you travel, our staff and our partners on the ground are here to help if any issues arise. You will always have a point of contact, ensuring you have a seamless travel experience with minimal stress.
We also offer travel insurance that can help in the event of an emergency. This added layer of security means you can enjoy your trip knowing you have protection against the unexpected before and during your safari.
While booking your own travel might be what you always do or you’ve found a ‘deal’ on a safari online, using a tour operator like AAC offers many advantages that can not only minimize stress but take your experience to the next level. From expert guidance and stress-free planning to exclusive deals and peace of mind, using AAC will ensure you have the trip of a lifetime! Leave the logistics and details to our Journey Specialists and enjoy the expertise, convenience and tailored services we provide.
Contact one of our Journey Specialists to get started and subscribe to our newsletter below for more information and inspiration.
Photos courtesy Charl van Rooy, Leonard von Bibra, Melissa Van Niekerk, David Clode, Colin Watts, Fabiana Rizzi, Sutirta Budiman and Stephanie Ben