So you’re pondering a safari. Congratulations — you’ve officially entered your “I need something wild but tasteful” era.
Here’s how to choose your flavour of Africa without needing a PhD in animal tracking or a suitcase full of zip-off trousers.
➡️ Kenya – Doable in 8 days. Think: sweeping savannahs, lion selfies, and… a few dozen other safari vehicles parked next to you doing the same. It’s semi-luxury for about $8k. A gentle, classic “Out of Africa” starter kit.
You’ll likely fly in on a bush plane over an endless patchwork of farms and tin roofs. Surprisingly scenic. Nairobi National Park greets you with rhinos grazing in front of a city skyline — it’s safari meets cityscape, like a nature documentary directed by Wes Anderson.
Also home to the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, where baby elephants in blankets will break your heart and steal your wallet (emotionally speaking).
Family tip: Kenya is kid-friendly — with good family lodges and activities — but children must have a yellow fever vaccine to enter.
➡️ Botswana or Zimbabwe – Now we’re talking real wilderness. Not just “more animals,” but more wild — raw, remote, and filled with characters who’ve survived both lion charges and Land Rover breakdowns in style.
12 days to 3 weeks recommended. You’ll spend about $15k for something “nice-but-not-luxury,” or $8k if you like your wine chilled by the breeze and don’t mind the occasional curious hyena sniffing around camp.
And if you’re a birder (or prefer the more theatrical title “twitcher”), the Caprivi Strip in nearby Namibia offers some truly spectacular hidden gems along the Botswana border — lush, off-the-radar lodges near riverine forests absolutely teeming with birdlife.
Trips here often end in Victoria Falls, or you can pop over on a day trip from Chobe National Park.
➡️ Chobe, Botswana – Glorious, elephant-rich, and easily combined with Vic Falls. But be prepared — you’re not the only one who’s heard it’s great. Think of it as the Times Square of tusks. Still stunning — just bring your patience and a long lens.
➡️ Okavango Delta – Expensive. Worth it. If safaris were dinner parties, this would be the one hosted by David Attenborough. Remote, water-woven, and wildly romantic. You’ll never be the same.
➡️ South Africa – A favourite for many, and for good reason: it’s more affordable, very child-friendly, and easy to navigate — especially for first-timers.
You’ll often stay on game farms, which are privately owned reserves ranging from charming family-run lodges to stylish boutique stays. It’s a bit like staying on a countryside estate… if the backyard includes giraffes. Many of these reserves are fenced (which helps if you’re bringing kids), and sightings are coordinated over radio — not because the animals aren’t there, but because you’re in a much larger landscape than a curated zoo.
This style of safari is comfortable, accessible, and still full of magic — ideal for a 6–10 day itinerary, often with a cherry-on-top visit to Victoria Falls at the end.
Less rustic, more “bush with brunch,” and ideal for those who want a little espresso with their elephants.
➡️ Victoria Falls – A must-see for any itinerary. It’s thunderous, unforgettable, and one of the most iconic waterfalls on the planet.
Family tip: If you’re traveling with kids, strap them in tight — literally. There are no rails between you and the gorge, so bring the pram or the baby carrier. It’s thrilling. It’s epic. It’s mildly terrifying if your toddler likes to sprint.
🍷 Wine? Yes. At all locations. And thankfully, it won’t require selling a kidney.
🍽️ Food? Also yes. If you’re worried about starving in the bush, don’t be — you’ll more likely go home with a suitcase full of laundry and a few extra pounds. Every camp has a chef with an actual relationship to butter and dessert. And trust us: second helpings are considered polite.
Still unsure? That’s what we’re here for — to help you pick the right version of “wild” without accidentally booking yourself into a tent with a monkey named Trevor who eats your sunscreen.
@wildlyyoursafrica | @umdingisafaris
Safaris done with charm, character, and absolutely no zip-off cargo pants.
