Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
photos or colour illustrations, are also invaluable. These guides also provide import-
ant identification pointers and a distribution map for each species.
Safari Style
While price can be a major determining factor in safari planning, there are other consider-
ations that are just as important.
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Ambience
Will you be staying in or near the park? (If you stay well outside the park,
you'll miss the good early-morning and evening wildlife-viewing hours.) Are the sur-
roundings atmospheric? Will you be in a large lodge or an intimate private camp?
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Equipment
Mediocre vehicles and equipment can significantly detract from the overall
experience. In remote areas, lack of quality equipment or vehicles and appropriate back-
up arrangements can be a safety risk.
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Access & activities
If you don't relish the idea of spending hours on bumpy roads, con-
sider parks and lodges where you can fly in. To get out of the vehicle and into the bush,
target areas offering walking and boat safaris.
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Guides
A good driver/guide can make or break your safari.
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Community commitment
Look for operators that do more than just give lip service to
ecotourism principles, and that have a genuine, long-standing commitment to the com-
munities where they work. In addition to being more culturally responsible, they'll also be
able to give you a more authentic and enjoyable experience.
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Setting the agenda
Some drivers feel that they have to whisk you from one good 'sight-
ing' to the next. If you prefer to stay in one strategic place for a while to experience the
environment and see what comes by, discuss this with your driver. Going off in wild pur-
suit of the Big Five means you'll miss the more subtle aspects of your surroundings.
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Less is more
If you'll be teaming up with others to make a group, find out how many
people will be in your vehicle, and try to meet your travelling companions before setting
off.
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Special interests
If birdwatching or other special interests are important, arrange a
private safari with a specialised operator.
