Picture this: the golden sun setting over the African savannah, a cool breeze rustling through the grass, and no soul in sight except for me, my guide, and a family of elephants lazily making their way to a waterhole. This wasn’t just any safari; this was my private safari experience—a dream come true. There were no crowds, no schedules dictated by anyone but myself—just the wild, untamed beauty of Africa, mine to explore at my own pace. Let me take you on this unforgettable journey, where luxury and adventure collide most extraordinarily.
What Are Private Safari Experiences?
If you’re anything like me, you’ve probably dreamt of going on a safari for years. But I didn’t want just any safari; I wanted something special, something personal. That’s where private safari experiences come in. Unlike regular safaris, where you might find yourself packed into a vehicle with a dozen strangers, a private safari is all about exclusivity. It’s just you, your travel companions, and a dedicated team focused solely on making your experience unforgettable.
I quickly learned that private safaris are not just about avoiding the crowds. They’re about creating a personalized adventure that caters to your every whim. Whether you’re an avid photographer wanting to capture the perfect shot or simply looking to soak in the serenity of the bush, a private safari moulds itself to your desires. And let me tell you, it’s worth every penny.
Top Destinations for Private Safari Experiences
Choosing where to go was the most challenging part—Africa is a vast, diverse continent with so many incredible places to explore. I finally settled on a few top destinations that promised the kind of exclusivity I was looking for.
South Africa: Kruger National Park & Sabi Sands
First on my list was South Africa, where the Kruger National Park and the adjacent Sabi Sands Game Reserve offered some of the best private lodges. Imagine staying in a luxury villa with panoramic bush views, sipping your morning coffee as elephants wander by. The game drives here were incredible, with my guide and I deciding how long to spend with a pride of lions or a herd of buffalo.
See the best Luxury Lodges in South Africa
Botswana: Okavango Delta & Moremi Game Reserve
Next, I headed to Botswana, where the Okavango Delta—a vast, lush wetland—delivered a completely different experience. Gliding silently through the water in a mokoro (a traditional dugout canoe) with my guide pointing out tiny frogs and birds, it felt like I was discovering a hidden world. The Moremi Game Reserve, with its remote and wild landscapes, was perfect for those seeking solitude and a deeper connection with nature.
Kenya: Maasai Mara & Laikipia Plateau
Kenya was another highlight, particularly the Maasai Mara, which is famous for the Great Migration. Watching thousands of wildebeest crossing the Mara River in the company of just my guide and the local Maasai was nothing short of magical. The Laikipia Plateau, with its private conservancies, offered a more intimate experience where I could walk with the wildlife and truly feel like a part of the landscape.
Tanzania: Serengeti & Ngorongoro Crater
Finally, Tanzania’s Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater didn’t disappoint. The vast plains of the Serengeti were teeming with life, and my private guide’s knowledge brought every moment to life. In the Ngorongoro Crater, I felt like I had stepped into an ancient world with its dense concentration of wildlife and dramatic landscapes.
What to Expect from a Private Safari Experience
So, what exactly does a private safari entail? Here’s a glimpse into the luxury and freedom you can expect.
Luxury Accommodations
The places I stayed were nothing short of spectacular. From private villas with plunge pools to exclusive lodges deep in the wilderness, each offered comfort and privacy that made it easy to unwind after a day of adventure. The best part? The lodges were as committed to conservation as luxury, ensuring my stay was guilt-free and indulgent.
Tailored Safari Itineraries
One of the biggest perks of a private safari is the flexibility. My days were tailored to my interests, whether that meant spending hours tracking a leopard or simply sitting by a waterhole, watching the wildlife come to me. There were no rushed schedules, no forced activities—just pure, unadulterated exploration.
Personalized Service
The personalized service truly spoiled me. My guide, who quickly became more like a friend, knew exactly when to give me space and when to share his incredible knowledge of the bush. And let’s not forget the chefs who prepared gourmet meals tailored to my preferences, even whipping up a surprise bush dinner under the stars one night.
Unique Wildlife Encounters
Without the distraction of other vehicles or tourists, the wildlife encounters felt more intimate and raw. I’ll never forget the moment when a curious lion cub came right up to our vehicle or the thrill of watching a pack of wild dogs on the hunt—all while knowing that this experience was entirely mine.
The Cost of Private Safari Experiences
Now, let’s talk about the elephant in the room—cost. Yes, private safaris come with a higher price tag, but when I weighed the cost against the value, it was clear that this was an investment in memories that would last a lifetime.
Prices can vary depending on the destination and level of luxury but expect to pay a premium for the exclusivity and personalized service. My safari was definitely on the higher end, but considering my experiences, it was worth every cent.
Destination | Luxury Level | Estimated Cost (per person, per night) |
South Africa (Kruger National Park & Sabi Sands) | High-end Luxury Lodge | $1,000 - $2,500+ |
Botswana (Okavango Delta & Moremi Game Reserve) | Exclusive Camp/Lodge | $1,500 - $3,500+ |
Kenya (Maasai Mara & Laikipia Plateau) | Luxury Tent/Private Conservancy | $800 - $2,000+ |
Tanzania (Serengeti & Ngorongoro Crater) | High-end Lodge/Private Camp | $1,000 - $2,500+ |
Namibia (Skeleton Coast & Etosha National Park) | Remote Luxury Lodge | $1,200 - $3,000+ |
Zambia (South Luangwa & Lower Zambezi) | Exclusive Bush Camp | $800 - $2,000+ |
Note: These prices typically include all meals, guided activities (like game drives and bush walks), and sometimes flights between lodges. However, the cost can fluctuate based on the time of year, the specific lodge or camp, and additional activities you might want to include.
Is a Private Safari Worth the Investment?
Absolutely. The level of attention, the freedom to explore at my own pace, and the sheer luxury made it more than just a vacation—it was a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Budgeting Tips for a Private Safari
If you’re considering a private safari but worried about the cost, there are ways to make it more affordable. Booking during the shoulder season can offer significant savings without compromising on the experience. Also, consider smaller, less well-known reserves, which can provide equally incredible wildlife experiences at a lower cost.
How to Plan Your Private Safari Experience
Planning a private safari might seem daunting, but it’s pretty straightforward once you know what you want.
Choosing the Right Safari Destination (Best African Safari Destinations)
Start by thinking about what kind of experience you want. Do you want to see the Big Five, or are you more interested in birdwatching? Do you prefer the open savannahs of East Africa or the dense bush of Southern Africa? Your answers will help you narrow down your options.
When to Go on Safari
Timing is everything. I chose to travel during the dry season, when the wildlife is concentrated around water sources, making for easier viewing. However, each season offers something unique, so consider what you want to see and plan accordingly.
What to Pack on Safari
Packing for a private safari is all about balancing practicality with a touch of luxury. Lightweight, neutral-coloured clothing, good binoculars, a camera, and plenty of sunscreens are necessary. Don’t forget to pack something special for those evenings when you’ll be dining under the stars.
Safari Booking Tips
Finally, when it comes to booking, I found that working with a reputable safari operator or booking directly with the lodges offered the best experience. They handled all the details, from transfers to activities, leaving me free to enjoy the journey.
If you are looking to book a Safari, Enquire Here and we will help you plan your ultimate trip
Conclusion:
Reflecting on my private safari experience, I realize it was more than just a trip—an adventure that reconnected me with the natural world most intimately and luxuriously. If you’ve ever dreamed of experiencing Africa in your own way, I can’t recommend a private safari enough. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply looking to escape the every day, this journey will stay with you forever. So, why wait? The wild is calling, and it’s time to answer.
Article by Craig Howes, World Safari Influencer of the Year 2020
Ready to plan your own private safari experience? Visit African Safari Mag for more expert insights, destination guides, and all the inspiration you need to embark on the adventure of a lifetime. Don’t just dream it—live it!
