Frequent asked questions

Safari FAQ

How rugged is a camping safari?
On a camping safari, guests and staff sleep in private tents in designated campsites in or near the national parks. Next African Safaris setup the camp and prepare all meals while you relax, read and eat snacks. Bush camps consist of tents set up around tables and chairs. Whenever possible, Bush ‘s uses more remote campsites to make your camping experience more private. There are toilet and shower facilities at almost all the campsites although the level of cleanliness varies. 

What types of hotels do you use?
A variety of local style accommodations are used including hotels, guesthouses, pensions, hostels, home-stays and of course camping. Most hotels are tourist class, offering clean secure accommodation but with few amenities.

Can I have a single room/tent? Do I have to share?
Single supplements are only available on a few select trips and lodge/tented camp accommodated safaris. On most of our trips if you are traveling alone you will share a room or tent with another same sex solo traveler and will not be charged for, a single supplement.

How Does Next African Safaris Choose Lodges and Tented Camps on Safari?
We organize your holiday or honeymoon specifically to your requirements. With our detailed knowledge of the country and the lodges we will make sure that you visit the area that you want to see and stay in the lodges most suited to you and your budget. We also make sure that you visit the right place at the right time of year and take the right type of transport to get to your destination. We have no affiliation with any of the lodges so are totally objective in our choice. We try to visit all the lodges regularly and we judge them solely on quality of the accommodation, service and value for money. 
Our experienced and professional consultants are committed to matching your every need, rather than simply prescribing set itineraries. 

What to Bring on Safari?
It really depends on what type of safari you have chosen. In any case, the following is recommended: Flashlight; Sunscreen, Lip salve; Sunglasses, Sun hat; Insect repellent; Binoculars; Camera with zoom lenses; Spare film and batteries; Towel, Toiletries; Long sleeved shirt; Long trousers; Warm sweater; Sleeping bag; Small daypack.

Will I get a hot shower every day? 
On some trips yes, but others, especially camping trips, no.

If I arrive a day early, can you help with hotel accommodation?
Yes, we can arrange additional accommodation at the joining hotel if you plan to arrive early.

Is it a guaranteed departure?
Not all departures are guaranteed. However very few trips are cancelled.

How many are booked so far?
Since travelers book from many different countries, exact numbers are not available. We know when the trip is almost full and when completely full.

How much spending money should I bring?
This will depend on the destination and your spending habits. However our trip notes / dossiers will give you an idea of how to budget for additional meals, optional excursions, and extra expenses you might incur on any specific trip.

How much spending money should I bring?
This will depend on the destination and your spending habits. However our trip notes / dossiers will give you an idea of how to budget for additional meals, optional excursions, and extra expenses you might incur on any specific trip.

What are The Big Five?
The Big Five were originally the animals most sought after by hunters. They were the fiercest animals, the animals that hunted the hunters. They include rhino, elephant, lion, leopard and Cape buffalo and today are the animals that tourists most want to see when visiting Tanzania's national parks. You can see all five of these animals during a visit to Northern Tanzania.

What is the Wildebeest Migration?
The wildebeest migration is the annual movement of 1.2 million wildebeest and zebra between Tanzania's Serengeti National Park and Kenya's Maasai Mara National Park. The migration is usually in the Serengeti from late December until late August, making these months the best for wildlife viewing in the Serengeti. The best months to view the migration are generally January through March when the migration is in larger herds. The highlight of the migration occurs during a two week period in February when the wildebeest give birth to 8,000 babies daily.

How close do I get to the Animals?
It is important to follow the park regulations. The guide is not allowed to drive off the tracks to approach animals. Normally, the guide should keep a distance of at least 25 meters from the animals; however, some animals actually come near vehicles or stay close to the tracks. So, you will most likely get up close and personal with the wildlife, sometimes close enough to reach out and touch the animals. As much as it sounds good, it is not a good idea; remember that the parks are not Zoos, animals are not tamed and close encounters can be dangerous! It is much better to stick to your camera!

Do you ever have any last minute specials?
Not usually. Our trips are priced to be as affordable as possible and further discounting is not usually offered. The groups are small and therefore space is limited. We actually have a $50 late booking fee, so book early!

When should I book my trip?
Because our trips book up months in advance, we recommend booking early to avoid disappointment. We will of course make every effort to accommodate last minute bookings.

Can I create a custom itinerary?
Yes. At present we Have Tailor made form in which you can organize your awn next Safari as well as animal safaris and trips to Zanzibar. If you are interested in a variation on these, please  Safari Tailor Made. We will work hard to accommodate your needs.