Step 1: Where to Go and What to See
Step 2: Consider Travelers and Preferences
Step 3: When to Go
Step 4: Set Your Budget
Step 5: Choose your travel provider
Step 6: Book Your Flights & Get Ready
STEP 1: WHERE TO GO AND WHAT TO SEE
For you to be able to pick the perfect safari country for you, you need to know the wildlife you would want to explore. Is there a particular animal or event you wish to see? If you are hankering to witness the Great Migration in Tanzania, Around July to October are your best bet.
The next big question you will probably have is How early to book your trip? 😆
Some would say that booking it a year early is most ideal. Truth of the matter is, your booking can be from a month to a year (or even more, for some) depending on the number of travelers, size of the lodge/camp and time of the year you plan to go. If you are going solo or as a couple probably for an anniversary or a honeymoon booking a year early is not really necessary. One month or even a few weeks lead-time is usually enough UNLESS you have your eyes fixed on a certain location, lodge and dates, and you regard these specifics as non-negotiable.
Also, you have to note that the more time you have to prepare, the more prepared you’ll be. However, there is also a downside to booking very early. A year is long and we really don’t know what will happen within that span of time. But then again, if you are determined to avoid unnecessary disappointments and you already have your heart set on a certain date, event or lodge, book it A.S.A.P.
If you are going as a group, booking as early as possible is wise because you may need a number of rooms. Safari lodges/camps have a limit to how many people they can cater. For example, a luxury safari camp can only accommodate around 20 people. This is also the reason why the size of the lodge or camp matters in how far in advance you need to book. Another important detail you need to consider is the date of your visit. During peak seasons, you’ll be surprised how most accommodation are already at capacity about a year in advance.
STEP 2: CONSIDER TRAVELERS AND PREFERENCES
Every traveler or group of travelers naturally have different wants and needs.
Are you traveling with kids? How about seniors? Most people who travel with kids or seniors would want to have less layovers as possible. So, make sure to check the travel routes available. Have a list of your backup airlines, just in case. Also, younger kids and older adults might not want to go on a long safari drive. We can arrange a special activity for them or maybe even delight them in a short safari drive. Child minders, or babysitters as popularly known in most countries, are also available upon request.
Another thing you might want to think about is diet. Do you have any special dietary restrictions? Perhaps a gluten-free or vegan diet? If so, you need to specify these with us early.
Lastly, maximize your vacation. Aside from the safari game drives, what activities do you want to do? Depending on the park and destination, here are the most exciting things you must try:
Hot air balloon, Relax on a Beach, Mount Kilimanjaro Hike, Scuba diving, cultural Trips, Moshi Day Trips, Or Night Life and Weekend Clubbing.
STEP 3: WHEN TO GO TO TANZANIA
Another vital detail in planning is when you intend to visit Tanzania. At what time of the year do you plan to go?Does it fall on a low, mid or high season?
When it gets more crowded, prices get steeper and safaris get fully-booked faster during peak season. This is opposite during low season. Cheaper prices, less tourists and a relatively higher chance of booking your desired safari accommodation/tour/activity even with minimal lead time.
If you are aiming to see certain animals or witness a particular event, like the Great Migration around July to October, you also need to familiarize yourself with the seasons of the heard and the perfect time to see them.
Game viewing is best during the drier and hotter seasons, although it is generally good in most parts of Tanzania all year round.
You should also take into account what you wish to experience and of course the purpose of your travel.- Are you on a honeymoon or a romantic getaway?
- If so, what activities do you want to add?
- Perhaps a romantic candlelight dinner by the bush or maybe a hot air balloon ride?
- Are you traveling with kids or elderlies? Because let’s face it, tagging kids along is a game changer.
- Also, elders aren’t so much inclined to long drives and an adventure-packed itinerary like younger travelers.
- How about walking safaris?
- Beach trips?
- How many days do you want to spend on a safari?. All of these should be considered.
Why?
Some activities may not be available in a particular month, week, day or even year. Also some activities may not be as enjoyable for particular age groups.Although fairly flexible, each camp and our safari tour has age restrictions. Some lodges and safaris don’t even accommodate children below 6, and have limitations for visitors aged 6-12. A number of them also offer child minders aka babysitters for an additional cost.
Some activities may not be gratifying or maybe even reasonable during a particular time of the year. During heavy rains, many animals disperse and vegetation is lush thereby increasing the chance of an obstructed game viewing. Some roads can also become impassable or extremely muddy so this could be difficult, game drives limited and you wouldn’t possibly want a walking safari by then. Some lodges and camps could be closed, too.
That’s why if you come around these months, you have to make sure your desired accommodation is open and available. Another issue to rainy season is that excellent photo opportunities are rare.
STEP 4: PLAN AND SET YOUR BUDGET
Flight costs aren’t inclusive so you also have to consider this one. Of course, fares vary depending on your place of departure and dates of travel. You can check the airlines ahead for an idea or if you’re lucky, you might even score a good deal.
Our typical safari package covers 2 up to 8 days and is usually all-inclusive for meals and accommodation, except the last day of stay. Prices can go as low as $ 235 a day during low season and as high as $ 400 plus a day during high season. Also it will depends on the type of accomodation requested.
Example
To give you an idea, our sample 4 day safari in Tanzania (Serengeti National Park, Lake Manyara National Park & Ngorongoro Crater) for 2 people during peak season, all inclusive of meals, accommodation, park fees, VAT, private four-wheel vehicle, professional guide and driver, two nights hotel in Kilimanjaro and airport transfers.
- A budget safari would cost $ 285 per person per day
- A midrange safari would cost $ 350 per person per day
- A luxury safari would cost $ 530 per person per day...not high-end lodges and camps !
Other expenses include:
- Tips for your Guide/Driver: $ 20 per day at your discretion but budget $ 10 - $30
- Additional drinks
- Vaccinations
- Souvenirs
- Flights to and from Tanzania
- Visas, medical insurance and comprehensive travel insurance
Based on your budget, we will find a wide array of options that will suit your taste from budget to mid-range to luxury safari trips.
STEP 5: CHOOSE YOUR TRAVEL PROVIDER
Tanzania is famous for her stunning natural beauty from the breathtaking landscapes of the Serengeti to the fascinating wildlife in the Ngorongoro crater down to the bewitching white sand beaches of Zanzibar, it is definitely an adventure of a lifetime. However, many people find themselves trapped in an endless dilemma:
Should I book with a safari operator?
ADVANTAGES OF CHOOSING BPJ AS YOUR TOUR OPERATOR- You can save a lot of time from traveling from one place to another and spend more time at parks and other attractions.
- Operators like us we are well-prepared and equipped with tools. Plus, we know the areas very well so getting help would be a piece of cake. Besides, all our vehicles are very well-managed and maintained.
- Our Guides and drivers are long-time experts who could bring you to exactly where the big games are. We have access to road blocks, too. Otherwise, we are very knowledgeable on all the road twists, turns and bumps.
- We have a very experienced guides who are proficient in Tanzanian history and culture, you will be able to learn more as you travel. Fun facts and background stories will be imparted in the most educational and entertaining ways.
- Your utmost comfort and convenience are always guaranteed. Snacks and beverages are provided as well.
STEP 6: BOOK YOUR FLIGHT/S & GET READY
Some travelers prefer booking early (as early as one year in advance). This gives them an advantage of securing seats and accommodation on their desired dates PLUS it also gives them a significantly higher chance of scoring lower rates on airfare and possibly on other things, too.
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So now that you have made your research, you are ready to book!
When all is set, what’s next?
- What to pack. Just like any other vacation, you need to pack your essentials. But since Tanzania is not just like any other destination, you might need to add or take out a few stuff in your list. Check them here!
- Medications. Prevention is always better than cure. And because a trip to Africa gives you a higher risk if contracting disease, you may need travel vaccines so make sure to check in reputable sites such as CDCP and WHO.
- Visa. Visa requirements vary per country so check here or through our embassy in your country
- Travel safety & insurance (OPTIONAL)
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