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In the world of luxury safaris, timing is everything. A trip to witness the spectacular Great Migration across the Serengeti or an unforgettable trek to commune with gorillas in Rwanda is rarely planned on the fly. The average planning window is about 6-months in advance. Yet, the limited availability of premium lodges across Africa’s top safari destinations, especially during peak season, has increased the need to book and plan even further in advance, according to Alice Lombard, Discover Africa’s Head of Sales. South Africa, Botswana, and Tanzania are most popular for U.S. and European travellers, with top-tier luxury safaris for these destinations starting from $3,000 per person per day, depending on the season. “These prices reflect the exceptional quality of accommodations and experiences provided, but with limited supply in luxury tented camps accommodating less than 12 people, for example, advanced booking has become essential, to avoid being disappointed,” states Lombard. Advanced booking is essential with some lodges getting booked out a year at a time, adds Discover Africa Safaris’ head of product, Murielle Vegezzi. READ: Solo Woman Travel Boom: How to Safari Solo in Africa “Giraffe Manor, famous for its ethereal insta posts of Giraffe’s popping in for tea, is another example of where you need to book at least one year in advance,” says Vegezzi. “Getting a gorilla permit in Rwanda can also get tricky during peak season and this needs advanced planning. Availability in the best camps on the Mara River can also be touch-and-go in July and August.” Discover Africa is seeing an average trip length of 14 days or longer being booked, with solo travellers growing by more than 100%, according to the online travel company’s year-to-date bookings data. Couples account for 53% of safaris bookings, while tours for small groups or multi-gen families continue to see an upward trend – adding to the demand for bespoke safari experiences. Vegezzi has also noted a growing preference for more involved experiences across multiple countries, instead of single country trips. “Improved flight connections among African countries, especially Kenya, and flexibility to take longer travel windows has added to the trend,” added Vegezzi. Looking ahead these are Discover Africa’s top-rated Itineraries to book in 2025 – and the reasons why you should book them earlier rather than later.
Trip Details: This 16-day itinerary is the ultimate fly-in safari across five countries including Botswana, Kenya and Tanzania. This safari in Africa ends with an unforgettable gorilla encounter in Rwanda. You’ll enjoy game viewing in customised safari vehicles, glide on the water on board a mokoro, and walk through the forest in search of primates.
Book in early because: This itinerary sees a combination of five counties and requires a good deal of preparation and planning. Book at least one-year in advance, according to available flight booking schedules.
Trip Details: An 8-day trip reminiscent of the golden age of travel. Your journey starts onboard the luxury Rovos Rail departing South Africa’s administrative capital Pretoria to one of Africa’s most incredible natural wonders, Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe. You’ll stay at the charming Victoria Falls Hotel before exploring the serene Okavango Delta and a relaxing stay at the Ker & Downey Shinde camp. This safari promises incredible wildlife encounters and unforgettable memories in the heart of Africa.
Reasons to book far in advance: Your timeless journey on board the Rovos luxury train will need to be tailored to its set departures that are booked up a long time in advance.
Trip Details: Perfect for families of 3 or more, this 9-day Botswana safari covers four stunning areas. Enjoy private game viewing in Makgadikgadi Pans National Park, water activities in the Okavango Delta, big game viewing in Moremi, and witness the large herds of elephants in Chobe National Park.
Reasons to book far in advance: Family safaris require travel booked in advance to ensure private vehicles, guides and family accommodation, which is often limited to 1 or 2 family options per camp.
Trip Details: 7 days exploring Zimbabwe and Botswana. This luxury fly-in safari lets you marvel at Victoria Falls, see Chobe’s massive elephant herds, and explore the marvellous waterways of the Okavango Delta. You’ll have the perfect blend of land-based and water adventures. This Africa safari tour is also a dream for photographers. End your trip with an unforgettable stay at Botswana’s renowned Chief’s Camp.
Reasons to book far in advance: Chiefs is a top-rated camp that gets booked out, and needs advanced preparation.
Trip Details: Experience Zambia’s untamed beauty with a 7-day safari in South Luangwa and the Lower Zambezi. Encounter large herds of elephants, elusive leopards, and a variety of wildlife while enjoying walking and boating safaris away from the crowds. This safari adventure offers luxurious remote camps, exceptional guides, and breathtaking river cruises.
Reasons to book far in advance: Zambia is best visited during the dry season from June to October, when wildlife viewing is at its peak, advance booking is essential due to the limited availability during these prime months.
Trip Details: Known as the Valley of the Leopard, South Luangwa is where Norman Carr pioneered walking safaris and conservation-based tourism in Africa. This 6-day safari of Africa offers an immersive experience in one of the world’s most beautiful wildlife sanctuaries, just an hour’s flight from Lusaka. Stay in the exquisite Time + Tide Nsolo and Kakuli camps, enjoying day and night game drives, bush walks between camps, and cultural visits to local communities for a truly unique and enriching adventure offering the best of Africa.
Reasons to book far in advance: You’ll be staying at one of the one of the most historical camps in Zambia, Time + Tide Nsolo. This barefoot luxury experience at these very small and remote camps, in season, often requires booking a year in advance.
Trip Details: This Luxurious 5-day South African safari package includes two nights in the Timbavati Private Nature Reserve followed by two nights in the Sabi Sands Reserve. The intimate lodges offer spacious luxury with exceptional game-viewing experiences and the potential to spot the rare white lion!
Reasons to book far in advance: This itinerary combines two very popular destinations, which often means booking in advance as space is limited, especially during peak season between November to March.
Trip Details: This luxury safari takes you to two malaria-free areas in South Africa: Madikwe Game Reserve and Marakele National Park. Enjoy breathtaking landscapes and iconic wildlife with seamless fly-in transfers between lodges. With top-notch guides and gourmet dining, it’s perfect for both romantic getaways and family holidays.
Reasons to book far in advance: These lodges offer free transfer flights included in your safari tour, with a limited validity period in 2025.
Trip Details: Discover Zimbabwe beyond Victoria Falls on this 10-day safari. Begin with a stay near the iconic Falls, then fly to Hwange for incredible wildlife experiences, and end at Lake Kariba in Matusadona National Park. Enjoy a variety of activities, excellent food, and top-notch service, with options for fishing.
Reasons to book far in advance: Zimbabwe is the destination to watch, go before the “crowds” and benefit from a great price as this destination is “great value for money”.
Trip Details: Experience the ultimate luxury safari through Kenya and Tanzania on this 17-day journey. Visit Nairobi, Amboseli, Masai Mara, Arusha, Tarangire, Ngorongoro Crater, and the Serengeti. Experience a more immersive safari with leisurely 3-night stays that let you truly savour each location. Enjoy reading on your private terrace, stargazing, and poolside naps with elephants on the horizon. This journey is a treat for all the senses.
Reasons to book far in advance: Longer luxury trips, like this immersive safari, require detailed planning and early booking to ensure a seamless experience. By reserving early, you can enjoy bucket list destinations and their superb camps without rushing.
Trip Details: This 8-day ultra-luxury safari pairs a stay at the renowned Giraffe Manor with six nights at two exclusive Relais & Chateaux camps: Mara Plains Camp in the private Northern Masai Mara conservancy and Mara Nyika Camp in Naboisho Conservancy. Experience a once-in-a-lifetime bucket-list breakfast with the world’s tallest animals and exceptional game viewing year-round. With no fixed schedule or set mealtimes, your safari will be tailored to your preferences and wildlife encounters, ensuring a truly personal and intimate safari experience.
Reasons to book far in advance: Giraffe Manor, with its resident giraffes, makes it one of the most sought-after stays in the world. It requires booking at least one year in advance due to its high demand and exclusive nature.
Trip Details: 7 days in Kenya Experience an authentic safari with no Wi-Fi, fully immersed in nature and wildlife in the Mara North Conservancy. Enjoy exclusive use of a safari vehicle for night drives and walks, embracing the serene, tranquil landscape and disconnecting from technology. This is about more than just spotting big animals-it’s about falling under the spell of the enchanting environment and connecting deeply with the wild.
Reasons to book far in advance: Book early for these remote camps, as they fill up quickly. In popular regions, choosing these special, secluded camps ensures a tranquil safari experience with stunning wildlife and no other vehicles in sight.
Trip Details: A 7-day safari offering a deep connection with nature and the Maasai culture in a raw yet comfortable setting. Explore the lush “Forest of the Lost Child,” guided by local Loita Maasai who share their traditions and the sacred forest’s lore. Then, enjoy exceptional game viewing from a private vehicle at an authentic tented camp on the edge of the Maasai Mara.
Reasons to book far in advance: Booking this camp in advance is key. With unique features like guided tours by the Loita Maasai, early reservations ensure you can fully immerse yourself in this exceptional adventure and secure all necessary details.
Trip Details: Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest peak at 5,895 metres (19,341 feet), offers a trek through five climatic zones, from tropical rainforest to arctic glaciers in Tanzania. This 7-day safari across the Machame Route with a local operator, is available as a private option for 2 people or as part of a set-date group.
Reasons to book far in advance: Booking in advance with eco-sensitive partners, so it’s an exclusive offering. Supporting these responsible operators, over cheaper alternatives, means you contribute towards local communities and environmental preservation.
Trip Details: A 9-day safari during calving season, combining the beauty of Tarangire, Lake Manyara, and the Ngorongoro Crater with the chance to witness the Great Migration in the Southern Serengeti. Ideal from January to March, it features less crowded camps for intimate wildlife viewing and relaxation under the stars.
Reasons to book far in advance: Calving season takes place at the start of the year, and you need to secure small, luxury properties that offer high-end, immersive experiences. Early planning helps guarantee availability at these exclusive, personal retreats.
Trip Details: A 6-day safari to Ruaha National Park in Tanzania, renowned for its stunning scenery and walking safaris, while engaging with the Douglas Bell Eco Research Station’s conservation efforts in the Usangu Wetland. Interact with researchers, track lions, and contribute to global studies, all while enjoying game drives, boat trips, and walks. Finish your adventure with 2 nights of luxury at Jabali Ridge, perched above the Mwagusi River and Ikuka escarpment.
Reasons to book far in advance: Booking in advance allows you to secure your place in exclusive, less-visited areas, with unique opportunities to engage with local conservation efforts. This safari is a purposeful experience beyond traditional game viewing.
Trip Details: This 9-day scheduled safari tour is perfect for small groups, with set departures for a comprehensive safari experience. Travel from Arusha to Lake Manyara, explore the Ngorongoro Crater, and enjoy an extended stay in the Serengeti Plains to witness the Great Migration. Departures are available in March and December, when the migration is in the South, and in July and August, when the herd moves to the North, showcasing dramatic river crossings.
Reasons to book far in advance: If you’re travelling solo or prefer joining a set tour, booking well in advance is crucial due to the limited departures.
Trip Details: This exclusive 9-dayRwanda safari blends adventure, luxury, and wildlife encounters. Start with a night in Kigali, then explore the majestic Virunga Mountains with two nights at Virunga Lodge, featuring an unforgettable gorilla trek. Continue with a serene two-night cruise on Lake Kivu aboard the Mantis Kivu Queen, and finish with two nights at Mantis Kivu Marina Bay for chimpanzee viewing in Nyungwe Forest. Optionally, extend your trip with a safari in Akagera National Park.
Reasons to book far in advance: Rwanda is earning a reputation beyond its spectacular gorilla trekking. Book in advance to fully immerse yourself in Rwanda’s rich experiences rather than just passing through. READ: New Flight Routes to Top Safari Destinations
Trip Details: Explore Namibia’s stunning dunes in Sossusvlei, encounter desert-adapted elephants in Damaraland, and enjoy game viewing near Etosha with this fly-in 7-day safari. Ideal for a short timeframe, this journey blends untamed wilderness, breathtaking landscapes, ancient rock art, and exciting wildlife encounters.
Reasons to book far in advance: Namibia’s high season can book up to a year in advance, so booking early increases your chances of securing your preferred dates and accommodations.
Trip Details: A 7-day safari adventure starting with Rubondo Island in Tanzania’s Lake Victoria. Explore this pristine sub-tropical ecosystem, and encounter wild elephants and chimpanzees. Combine this exclusive experience with a Serengeti safari and optionally extend your trip to Ngorongoro Crater or Rwanda for gorilla trekking.
Reasons to book far in advance: This remote location has limited availability, so booking early will ensure you are among the fortunate few to experience this distinctive safari encounter. Rubondo also closes annually during the rainy season, between April and May. READ: Rwanda Wanderings: Trekking to Mountain Gorillas in the Rain
Trip Details: An 11-day Safari exploring vast, remote landscapes, far removed from the crowds. Enjoy the stunning scenery and diverse wildlife of Southern Tanzania, including the chimpanzees of Mahale. Rich local culture, delicious food, and breathtaking night skies, all add to the experience in areas with limited Wi-Fi for a complete disconnection from daily life.
Reasons to book far in advance: These small, family-owned camps are often highly sought after and tend to book up well in advance.
Trip Details: This 9-day romantic safari in Botswana’s Okavango Delta, sees you encountering wildlife like red lechwe and sitatunga. You’ll indulge in a luxurious 5-night stay off the coast of Mozambique along Benguerra Island, with its indigenous forests, pristine coral reefs, and idyllic beaches.
Reasons to book far in advance: A honeymoon safari and beach combo is a highly sought-after trip that often requires early booking.
Trip Details: This 10-day Impact Safari by African Bush Camps is a private group tour for six people, either family or friends travelling together. It takes you through Botswana, Zambia, and Zimbabwe and offers excellent game viewing and vibrant activities in support of women empowerment projects. Booking this safari contributes $5,000 to the ABC Foundation to fund the training and licensing of one female guide.
Reasons to book far in advance: Special interest and impact safaris require customised arrangement and are best to be booked in advance.
Trip Details: An 8-day safari to remote locations in Kenya beyond mass-tourist attractions. Explore the Samburu region with its large elephant herds, visit a Rhino sanctuary, and end with wildlife-rich game viewing in the Masai Mara, home to the Great Migration and the highest density of predators and plains game globally.
Reasons to book far in advance: Specialised, in-depth travel within a single country requires time to customise, so booking early ensures you get the best experience.
Trip Details: A once-in-a-lifetime trip combining premier safari experiences at Tswalu in the Kalahari, a luxury city stay at Cape Town’s award-winning Silo Hotel, and an extraordinary Antarctic adventure. Enjoy exclusive game viewing in South Africa’s largest private reserve, marvel at the Silo’s stunning design and panoramic views, and experience the awe of reaching the South Pole and encountering emperor penguins.
Reasons to book far in advance: With limited departures in December and January and exclusive options for privatising the trip, booking in advance is essential for securing this once-in-a-lifetime experience accessible to very few. READ: Transformative Journeys: From Africa’s Red Desert to Antarctica’s Crystal Glaciers
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Author: Murielle Vegezzi
Published: 23 September 2024