research, trust and adaptability: the keys to an unforgettable safari
Oh, how much we’ve learned since embarking on our first adventure to Africa back in 1999! Every trip has been a lesson, every sighting an opportunity to understand the wild in a deeper way. But one of the most valuable lessons we’ve learned is multi-faceted—it’s about research, trust, and flexibility. These three elements can make or break a safari experience.
Do Your Research
When we first started traveling to Africa, we relied heavily on recommendations from the travel agency we used at the time. They were “Africa Safari Specialists”. However we quickly learned that our idea of an ideal safari experience would not necessarily be the same as our agents… and not everyone is flexible on their approach. After a rather disastrous vacation where we were in the wrong areas for the season, we realized that doing our own in-depth research was going to be a necessity for us. We did switch up our agents a few times over the years, some were better listeners and more flexible than others, but none were a perfect fit. A safari is not a one-size-fits-all experience, and the more you understand about the seasons, the wildlife movements, and the quality of guiding in each region, the better you can craft an itinerary that delivers the magic you’re dreaming of.
Find the Right Resources and Trust Them
Not all advice is created equal. Over the years, we’ve learned to identify and trust the voices that come from real, firsthand experience—guides, camp managers, and safari specialists who have spent years in the field, watching how the bush evolves with the seasons and over time.
News flash: Not everything you read online is accurate or up to date. Some information that was reliable a few years ago may now be outdated or irrelevant. That’s why it’s crucial to seek out knowledgeable experts who are actively engaged in the safari world.
The right people won’t just rattle off generic recommendations—they’ll take the time to understand your priorities, explain when and where specific areas are at their peak, and adjust your itinerary to maximize your experience. Finding and trusting these experts can mean the difference between an average safari and an extraordinary one.
Your Favorite Destination Won’t Always Be the Best Choice
It’s natural to develop a love for certain parks, reserves, or camps. We certainly have our favorites! But one of the hardest lessons we’ve learned is that a beloved safari destination isn’t necessarily the best choice year-round. Wildlife movements shift, water sources dry up or fill, and some places that are magical in one season can be frustratingly inappropriate in another.
For example, we adore the Serengeti, but even within that vast ecosystem, different areas shine at different times of the year. A camp that offered phenomenal game viewing in February might appear empty in October. The Okavango Delta in Botswana transforms completely between the dry and wet seasons. Understanding these dynamics—and being willing to adjust our plans accordingly—has led to some of our most rewarding trips.
Flexibility Leads to the Best Experiences
The best safaris happen when you’re open to all the possibilities. Maybe that means switching destinations based on migration patterns, trusting your guide when they suggest an unplanned detour, or even altering your itinerary to take advantage of a rare wildlife event. Some of our most memorable sightings happened because we stayed flexible and followed the advice of those who know the bush best.
The Bottom Line? Research, Trust, and Adaptability Win Every Time
If there’s one takeaway from our years of safari experience, it’s this: A great safari isn’t about sticking to a rigid plan—it’s about understanding when, where, and how to find the best wildlife experiences, and trusting the right people to guide you there.
