There is nowhere in the world to view large animals quite like Africa. Home to some of the most iconic species on the planet, Africa is on many people’s bucket list. At Gondwana Ecotours we believe this opportunity should be available to as many people as possible, that’s why this article is about how to plan an affordable African Safari.
We’ll start with aspects of your trip that you can think about saving money on:
Locations for African Safaris
Kenya and South Africa might be the most famous countries to go on safari, but they are not necessarily the best. Tanzania is one of the least crowded places to go on safari, and we think it is a fantastic alternative. Tanzania is a safe and politically stable country in eastern Africa and the people there are some of the most friendly and welcoming people you will ever meet.
Welcomed by friendly Maasai people
Since Tanzania is a large country with less tourism, the national parks are quieter and more remote. You may find that this makes for a less “touristy” experience. However since there is less tourism, finding accommodations can be difficult during peak travel times, so you may need to book the trip farther in advance or use a tour company who has reserved places.
Accommodation for African Safaris
Camping in the Serengeti
Your accommodation is another area where you can save money on your Safari trip. Once their game drive is done, most travelers will retreat to a lodge on the edge of the park. However, a more budget-friendly and adventurous option is to set up camp right in the heart of the reserve. Sleeping under the stars, in the wild, is a truly unforgettable experience.
Our Camping Safari is surprisingly affordable and includes staff that set up your tents and cook meals for the group. When you camp with us, we provide all of the equipment and set up camp. All you have to worry about is enjoying the safari, eating dinner, and sitting around a bonfire until you settle in for bed. Each site has flush toilets and showers.
Now we’re going to go over some areas of your safari where you shouldn’t compromise, in order to make sure you have the best experience possible:
Game Drive Views
Zebras in Serengeti National Park
Wildlife viewing is one of the most important and memorable parts of your African safari experience. Elephants, giraffes, hippos, lions, monkeys, wildebeest, zebras, and warthogs are some of the species you will surely encounter! You may see Africa’s Big Five game animals, or even encounter some lesser known, but equally exciting species, such as the ones on our Little Big Five list. A thrilling safari to Africa is truly an unforgettable experience to witness the awe-inspiring spectacle of the Great Migration. Experience nature as you observe thousands of wildebeest and other wildlife journey across the vast plains in search of greener pastures. Find some answers to any Great Migration questions you may have!
On a Gonwana Ecotours African safari, you’re guaranteed a window-seat in a private to our group Toyota Land Cruiser, which means unobstructed views of wildlife from your seat. Your dedicated guide will skillfully navigate the rugged terrain, sharing insights about the flora and fauna that call these vast plains home. As you venture deeper into the heart of the African wilderness, the air is filled with anticipation and excitement as you never know what majestic creature might appear around the next bend. The Land Cruiser’s open design allows you to feel the gentle breeze and hear the rustle of grass as you track elusive predators or witness playful elephant calves frolicking in the mud. Every moment on this African safari is a chance to connect with nature in its purest form, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
Local Guides
Tanzania Tour Guides
Having local, knowledgeable guides take you on your African safari is non-negotiable. Local guides and drivers for all of your game drives and transportation in Tanzania will enrich your experience and make it even more magical. Our expert guides have strong ties to the community and will join us as we mingle with the local Maasai people.
Gondwana Ecotours offers two different small-group safari tours in Africa. They are very similar except for the lodging. Let’s start with the similarities:
They’re both once-in-a-lifetime 10-day safaris in Tanzania. You will visit four different national parks, get to know the local people, and see incredible wildlife. It’s not just the wildlife that’s amazing, the landscapes you’ll experience range from dense jungles to endless grasslands—sights to remember! They are both very special trips full of culture and amazing opportunities for wildlife photography and viewing. Join us as we mingle with local Maasai people, hike through forests to waterfalls, look for endangered black rhinos, and see the biggest concentration of African elephants in the world.
Our Camping Safari includes several nights at comfortable hotels, but the majority is spent at campgrounds inside the national parks. This experience is catered camping — camp staff will pitch the tents, roll out the sleeping bags, cook food, clean up after, and break down camp. The price point is extremely reasonable for a safari and that was our goal — we wanted to offer a more affordable way for people to experience the Serengeti and beyond in Tanzania.
On the more expensive Lodge Safari we stay at beautiful, comfortable lodges and hotels. This safari is more upscale and includes full service stays at private lodges. We can also customize a private trip especially for you and tailor it to fit your exact dates and needs! Contact us for details.
