East African Safaris

What our customers ask about East African Safaris

• What is the best time of year to visit East Africa for wildlife viewing?

  East Africa's prime wildlife viewing occurs during the dry seasons from June to October and January to February. These months align with the Great Migration across the Masai Mara and Serengeti where over two million wildebeest move between Tanzania and Kenya. As one TourRadar traveler noted: "We saw the migration in July and it was absolutely breathtaking watching thousands of wildebeest cross the Mara River."

• What types of accommodation options are available on East African safaris?

  The accommodation spectrum in East Africa runs from basic tented camps to high-end lodges. The Masai Mara features properties like the well-appointed Mara Sopa Lodge while more adventurous travelers can opt for simpler setups at places like Chui Camp. In the Serengeti Kisura Serengeti Camp provides comfortable tented rooms and Kankari Lodge near Ngorongoro offers traditional lodge comforts. As one TourRadar traveler noted: "The accommodations were fantastic - we had great experiences in both the luxury lodges and authentic tented camps which gave us the true safari feeling."

• What wildlife can I expect to see during an East Africa safari?

  East Africa's parks and reserves host the complete "Big Five" along with a rich variety of other wildlife. The Serengeti supports more than 3000 lions and Amboseli's plains are known for significant elephant populations. The Mara River attracts hippos and crocodiles while Lake Nakuru draws over 450 bird species. A TourRadar traveler shared: "Our guide took us to all the best lookouts and we saw everything - elephants lions leopards rhinos buffalo hippos and countless other animals. The diversity was incredible."

• How many hours of game drives can I expect per day?

  Daily safari schedules typically include 2-3 game drives. The first starts around 6:30am lasting 2-3 hours followed by a mid-morning drive after breakfast and an afternoon excursion from about 4pm until sunset. Some locations like Serengeti National Park offer full-day drives with packed lunches. As one TourRadar traveler mentioned: "The schedule was perfect with early morning and late afternoon drives when animals are most active plus full-day options to really maximize wildlife viewing."

• What's included in the price of an East Africa safari?

  Standard safari packages cover park fees ($50-100 USD daily) accommodation meals professional guides 4x4 game drives and inter-destination transfers. At destinations like Lake Nakuru and Masai Mara all essential costs including stays at properties like Mara Sopa Lodge come in the base price. Extra activities such as balloon rides ($420-599 USD) or Maasai village visits ($20-30 USD) cost extra. As confirmed by a TourRadar traveler: "The value was excellent with all major expenses covered - lodging meals park fees and expert guides."

• How many people are typically in a safari vehicle?

  Safari vehicles accommodate 4-7 passengers ensuring window seats and clear views for everyone. Higher-end tours often provide more space per person while budget options may fill vehicles to capacity. Most properties including Mara Sopa Lodge and Serengeti Kisura Camp use 4x4s with pop-up roofs for better viewing. A TourRadar traveler noted: "Having just 6 people in our vehicle meant plenty of space for viewing and photography - everyone had great access to windows and the roof hatch."