The Other Spot

Three Common Questions

The following are the three most common questions that arise and that need to be answered before embarking on a trip to any part of Africa:

1. What is the best time of year to go on safari? You can travel to Africa at any time of the year; there will always be somewhere where the game viewing is good. The high season is generally considered to be July, August and September, but this certainly does not mean that this is always the best time to visit a particular area. Certain events, like the annual wildebeest migration, may dictate when you should visit a particular area or, in areas like the Luangwa valley, the safari season may only start in May and end in November.

2. How much will a safari cost? This is almost impossible to predict. One thing that must be said about a safari to Africa – it is certainly not the cheapest holiday around! You will need to budget from around US$350 to $650 (and upwards) per person per day as a minimum (but this does include all your transfer costs, accommodation, meals, park fees and activities).

3. Why use an African travel specialist? A very simple answer: experience. There is no way in this world you can experience all the flavours a continent like Africa has to offer if you try to do it all by yourself. Thus, it’s a very good idea to get a specialist.

African Safari Experts

If you are planning to go to Africa, the first thing you will need (apart from the tips and advice given above) is a reliable tour operator. African Encounter is a small, dedicated team – they like to think of themselves as the Africa safari experts! They are passionate about Africa and dedicated to making your safari to Africa an experience like no other. They have lived and travelled in Africa for many years and have been planning safari itineraries since 1994. For many years they ran their own safari operation in Mana Pools, Zimbabwe and understand what makes a good safari operator (and what does not). They have maintained a great many contacts throughout the industry and have associate offices in nearly every country they send their clients. You are always assured of a local contact and a smiling face when you arrive in Africa and wherever your itinerary takes you. They can plan your safari itinerary with as much care, thought and attention as if it were their own. To know more about African Encounter and the destinations and safaris they are offering, please log on to their website at www.africanencounter.com.