What are the best months for an African safari?

For East African safaris in places like the Serengeti and Masai Mara, plan your trip between June and October. During these dry months, animals gather around water sources, making them easier to spot. If you want to see the Great Migration in Kenya and Tanzania, visit between July and September. The weather is pleasant then too, with average temperatures around 75°F (24°C). Many travelers tell us these months gave them the best wildlife viewing experiences.

When is the best time to book a safari tour?

Book your safari 6-8 months ahead, especially if you're planning to travel during peak season (July to October). This gives you the best choice of accommodations and ensures you don't miss out on popular parks like the Serengeti and Masai Mara. The weather is most reliable during these months, with clear skies and comfortable temperatures between 70-85°F (21-29°C). February and March are also good options if you want to avoid peak season crowds.

What type of accommodation can I expect on a safari tour?

You'll find everything from basic tented camps to high-end lodges. Most places include three meals a day and the basics you need. In the Masai Mara, you might stay at the comfortable Mara Sopa Lodge or the more adventurous Sentrim Tented Lodge. Over in Samburu, popular spots include Sarova Shaba Lodge and Ashnil Samburu Lodge. Budget accommodations are simpler but clean, while luxury lodges offer extras like private decks and premium amenities.

What wildlife can I expect to see on a safari tour?

You'll have good chances to spot the Big Five - lions, elephants, leopards, rhinos, and buffalo. In the Masai Mara and Serengeti, you'll see huge herds of wildebeest during their migration, plus lots of zebras, giraffes, and hundreds of bird species. One happy traveler shared: "We could see all the Big 5 and also other animals that we definitely cannot see in Japan. The wildlife viewing was incredible."

What's the typical daily schedule on a safari tour?

Your day starts early around 6:00 AM with a morning game drive - that's when animals are most active. You'll return to camp for breakfast around 9:30 AM. After lunch and some rest during the hot midday hours, you'll head out again around 3:30 PM for an afternoon drive. In places like the Masai Mara, morning drives are great for seeing predators hunt, while afternoon drives often end with beautiful sunset views. You'll have dinner back at camp after dark.

How long should I plan for a safari tour?

Plan for 7-14 days to really experience the parks without rushing. A two-week trip like G Adventures' Kenya & Tanzania Camping Safari lets you explore several parks including the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, and Masai Mara. If you're short on time, you can still see plenty of wildlife on a 4-5 day trip, like Bamba Travel's Serengeti & Ngorongoro Safari.

How much driving time should I expect on safari tours?

Each day includes about 4-8 hours in the vehicle, split between morning and afternoon game drives. The actual driving varies based on wildlife sightings - you might stop often to watch animals or drive longer to find them. Moving between parks takes extra time - for example, going from the Serengeti to Ngorongoro Crater is about a 3-4 hour drive. The vehicles are designed for safari viewing, but roads can be bumpy.

10 Best Safari Tours & Trips 2026/2027

Taj Mahal, Tiger and Pink City - 6 destinations

View Map

Safari

Taj Mahal, Tiger and Pink City

4.9 (62 reviews)

"My family and I are just enjoying this trip so much. You guys rocked it."
Elizabeth, traveled in May

Duration: 8 days
Destinations: Delhi, Jaipur, Ranthambhore National Park, Fatehpur Sikri,Agra+1 more
Age Range: All Ages Welcome
Country Region: Golden Triangle
Operated in: English, German,Italian,Portuguese,French,Spanish,Chinese,Dutch,Russian+7 more
Operator: Yolo India Tours

26% off

From $859: US$636per person

Price based on Private Double Room

Select Your Favourite Safari

10 best Safari tour packages