Planning for your Safari
When deciding when is the best time to go to Kilimanjaro Safari, there are several things to consider. Firstly, you want to ensure you are going when the game viewing will be at its best. Secondly, you need to decide how long you plan to stay and what type of activities you plan to do. Thirdly, you must consider the weather conditions and how that may affect the experience you have. Finally, the time of year when prices are the lowest is also important.
Kilimanjaro Safari offers excellent game viewing throughout the year. Depending on the season, certain animals are more active than others, so you may want to take this into account when planning your trip. During the dry season, April through November, the animals are more active and can be easier to spot. December through March may have longer grass and higher humidity, so animals may be harder to come by.
In addition to the seasons and game viewing, the weather also plays a major role in planning an enjoyable safari experience. The daytime temperatures in Kilimanjaro typically range from 16 to 20 degrees Celsius in April and November. By March, temperatures can reach up to the high twenties. June and July tend to be the hottest months with temperatures regularly reaching 35 degrees Celsius. Longer grass from December to March can make driving more difficult.
When you plan your safari, keep in mind that prices are usually cheapest from mid-December to mid-March. This coincides with the wet season so game viewing may be affected. During the dry season, prices tend to be high due to the popularity of the season for game spotting and outdoor activities.
Finding an Accommodation
When searching for the best accommodations for your Safari, be sure to consider your budget and preferred level of luxury. The Kilimanjaro region is full of amazing lodges, tented lodges, and campsites. Many of these offer various levels of luxury such as fine dining, spa treatments and on-site bars and restaurants. Wildlife also makes an appearance close to some of the more luxurious lodges, making it a truly unique and special experience.
If you’re looking for a more affordable option, there are some more basic lodges and camping sites. Most of these offer basic amenities such as hot showers and fresh water. There are also some ‘budget’ lodges, that offer basic and affordable accommodation for those on a tighter budget.
No matter what your budget, and style of lodging, there is something for everyone, and you are sure to find the perfect place for your safari.
Guided vs. Self-Drive Tours
Kilimanjaro Safari offers a variety of guided and self-drive tours. Both tour types can offer very different experiences so it is important to decide which tour suits you best.
Guided tours typically include the expertise of a tour guide who will have a deeper knowledge of the animals and areas you may visit. They will also provide meals and arrange any activities that you may want to participate in. This type of tour is great for those looking for a more personalised and immersive safari experience.
Self-drive tours offer freedom and flexibility to decide where and when to go. This may be more suitable for those with a tight budget, as you can often save on lodging and meal costs. Some tours also offer 4×4 vehicles, so you don’t need to worry if you don’t have your own.
Whichever type of tour you choose, make sure you have a clear idea of the places you plan to visit and when, as certain routes may only be available during certain seasons.
What to Pack
Packing the right gear and equipment can make or break your safari tour.The most important items to always have with you are a brimmed hat, sun-cream, sunglasses, insect repellent, comfortable shoes, and plenty of water. An appropriate amount of warm clothing such as jackets, long pants and scarves is also necessary during the colder months.
Also, camera equipment is very important, especially for self-drive tours, as you will want to make sure you take plenty of pictures of your safari. Binoculars are also helpful for viewing wildlife from a distance.
Having the correct kit is essential for a safe and enjoyable tour.Pack sensibly, and be mindful of how much you carry, as a full pack can make the game drives harder.
Safety First
Safety should always come first when planning a safari adventure. When out on the open roads, it is important to remain vigilant and always drive with caution.Letting others know your route is important, and if going on a 2 or 4-hour game drive, remember to notify the lodge or camp before you leave and when you arrive safely.
It is also important to always stay in your vehicle at all times, except in the designated areas.Do not attempt to feed or touch any of the animals as you could put yourself, the animals and the environment at risk.
Safety rules should be followed to ensure a safe experience and a memorable one.
Safari Costs and Budgeting
The cost of a Kilimanjaro Safari can vary significantly depending on the length of your safari, the type of accommodation, and the number of activities included. Generally, it is best to plan your budget in advance so you can prepare for any additional costs that may occur.
One way to save money when planning your Safari is to book a package deal. A package deal often includes flights, accommodation, meals, an activity or two, and the use of a 4×4 vehicle for game driving. This is a great way to save on individual costs, as well as having your entire trip organised for you in advance.
In addition to finding the right package deal, it is also important to managing your expectations. High end lodges and campsites can be quite expensive and sometimes what you can get out in the wild is nothing close to home. Remember that you are there to experience the wildlife and not merely to have a luxury holiday.
Practical Tips
Before leaving the house, there are some practical tips you should consider. Make sure to inform your bank that you are travelling overseas, to avoid any unpleasant surprises when making a transaction. Be sure to bring enough cash for any essentials, although most lodges and campsites will accept card payments.
Also, make sure you stock up on supplies and medication as you may struggle to find these readily available in the more remote areas.
When looking for somewhere to eat, always choose local restaurants, which can be far more cultural and flavorful than international chains. This is also a great way to support the local community, who you may come to rely on for information and advice when out in the wild.
Finally, always remember to keep your camera handy, as you never know what wildlife may be around the corner!
Understanding the Environment
Kilimanjaro Safari is a unique wildlife adventure, which not only provides opportunities to marvel at the wildlife, but also the chance to explore the beautiful and diverse Kilimanjaro terrain.
In order to appreciate the environment, it is important to understand the sensitivities and the fragility of Kilimanjaro’s eco-system. By respecting the region and its inhabitants, and by keeping your presence limited, we can continue to explore, study, and enjoy its beauty for generations to come.
This means taking any rubbish with you, sticking to designated tracks, avoiding water sources, and not disturbing the wildlife. Remember to respect the rules of the parks and the guidance of the park rangers.
Kilimanjaro Safari is a truly unique experience and an opportunity not to be missed. With careful planning and an understanding of the local environment, travelers are sure to have an amazing adventure.
