African Safari Tours Offer A Unique Experience

Posted by Nick Niesen on October 29th, 2010

If you are considering a trip that will offer adventure beyond your wildest dreams, perhaps an African safari tour is for you. In Swahili, ?safari? means journey, but today the word has become associated with adventure, exploration and amazing sights and sounds. There are a number of African safari tours that you can choose from, and they will vary greatly depending on the level of comfort that you are looking for and the budget that you can afford. Keep in mind that even the most basic African safari tours will cost a hefty amount, so this is not a trip that most folks will generally take on the fly.

It usually requires plenty of time to save and plan to embark on a safari adventure that will be satisfying, educational and comfortable. There are generally four types of safari adventures that you can take: a mobile safari, a permanent tented safari, a lodge tour or a fly-in adventure.

Types of African Safari Tours

Many African safari tours will require you to sleep in a tent of one type or another each night. Some of these tents are permanent fixtures that are set on concrete slabs away from the damp and bugs of the area. These are called permanent tented safaris. Others require you or your safari staff to pitch a tent each night in the spot that you stop.

These are called mobile safaris, and offer many great opportunities to encounter the wildlife of the area. For those who prefer comfort and even luxury with their adventure, the lodge tours will provide shelter at night that ranges from a basic type of motel to luxury accommodation.

These African safari tours tend to run in the much higher price range, but can offer a resort feel out in the middle of the wild. Finally, you can explore the more distant locations by small plane in what is known as a fly-in adventure.

Preparing for your Adventure

No matter what type of African safari tour you choose, you must plan ahead to make the most of your trip. Flying to this country generally requires immunizations and other medical care to prevent illness and injury from occurring on the trip. You will also need to outfit yourself with the proper gear and clothing that will help you to handle the elements as well as the pests and insects of the region.

It is also important to bring plenty of equipment that will aid in your wildlife viewing, such as cameras, binoculars, and perhaps even a laptop to capture pictures and memories in a journal. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for many travelers, so preparation is key in ensuring that your African safari tour is one trip that you will never forget.