View All African Overland Tours Budget safari options
Why go on a Budget Safari?
- Slow down and get in touch with the nature
- Experience wildlife in their natural environment
- Learn about and engage with local cultures
- Enjoy adventurous outdoor activities
Types of Budget Safaris?
A Safari is an experience in which you view and photograph wildlife in their habitat while in a 4×4 or hiking. Specialist forms of safaris have emerged to cater for a variety of needs and budgets such as migratory safaris, birding, medical safaris, hiking, culinary, horse back and photographic safaris. The most popular safari is staying in a camp or lodge for a few days whereas you also have the opportunity for a longer overland trip that traverses over numerous countries.
Camping Overland Safaris
During a Budget Camping Tour you will stay in large two-man dome canvas tents which are spacious enough for two adults and your luggage. Alternatively opt to have your own tent by including the single supplement which is optional on selected routes.
Tents are easily put up and taken down and rest assured your Tour Leader will show you exactly how to do this. All tents are well-ventilated by means of a tent door and window with mosquito net protection. The tent also includes a fly-sheet for the rain. Sleeping mats are provided which are 5cm in height and made of high density foam covered in pvc. You only need to bring your own sleeping bag, pillow and towel.
The African campsites are basic but comfortable. While most have warm showers and flushing ablutions others may only have natural ablutions.
Accommodated or Comfort Overland Safaris
Our Accommodated safaris are for adventure seekers who want to experience just a bit more comfort while sleeping in a comfortable bed. African lodges and hotels are selected based on their location, service and comfort.
Our accommodation ensures you are as close to nature as on a camping trip however you will enjoy the added comfort of bedded accommodation. All you need to bring is your own towel. The accommodation varies along your tour depending on your route. Some areas have beautiful bungalows or traditional huts and others allow you to experience more comfort in lodges and hotels. When en-suite bathroom facilities are available they do include flushing loo and hot water showers.
Budget Lodge Safaris
Budget Lodge safaris allow travelers to access wildlife over a shorter period of time. Therefore the lodges are closer to the wildlife and allow you more comfort. Most lodges can be accessed by air or by land transfers thus allowing you to maximize your time and experience. Also the quality of lodges vary for budgets and level of comfort.
Mobile Tented Safaris
Mobile tented safaris are designed to allow for less impact on the environment. Tents are set up for your accommodation and then dismantled when you leave to ensure only footprints are left behind. Guides will drive the support vehicles ahead of the travelers and set up the camp. As a result the entire camp is all set up before your arrival.
By the time you arrive all you have to do is unpack, sit back relax and wait for dinner. You will sleep on stretcher beds with a sleeping bag and a pillow provided. You will also have bucket showers with heated water for you to freshen up.
What is a typical day like on a budget Lodge safari or Tented Camp Safari?
Early mornings are frequent so that you can enjoy a hot beverage and a light breakfast before heading out on a game drive. The mornings can be crisp and cold while refreshing, with the reward of watching nature awaken.
The morning game drives can be between 2 to 3 hours long. Allowing you plenty of time to explore the area before returning to the campsite for lunch or enjoying a picnic in the bush. You might go on another game drive in the afternoon or take part in an activity such as canoeing, birdwatching or white water rafting.
Dinner is prepared while you sit back, relax and chat to your fellow companions over sundowners with a crackling fire ready to keep the chill off. Early nights are usually encouraged so that you wake up refreshed and ready for a another adventurous safari.
Tented and Lodge Safaris
When is the best time to go on a safari?
Winter season
The Winter months of June to October offer the best game viewing throughout East and Southern Africa. Typically also ideal for a beach vacation on the East coast of Africa with moderate daily temperatures. Game viewing is also best this time of year when herds of game graze freely on the dry golden stretches of Savannah during the day. At sunset the animals frequent the watering holes and riverbeds to quench their thirst. It is also the best months to see and experience the wildebeest migration in the Masai Mara Game Reserve. The migration is known as one of Africa’s greatest phenomena.
Summer Season
Summer is generally November to March and is known as the green season. This is when the bush transforms with lush green vegetation, set against the dramatic backdrop of dark thunderstorm clouds. It is the ideal playing field for energetic young grazers, with intensified predator action. Also the most popular season for birding enthusiasts with big flocks of migratory birds returning south.
Destinations for African Budget Safaris
Botswana Budget Safaris
South Africa Budget Safaris
Namibia Budget Safaris
Mozambique Budget Safaris
Tanzania Budget Safaris
Kenya Budget Safaris
Zimbabwe Budget Safaris
Uganda Budget Safaris