Why the Best African Safaris Are Planned 12–18 Months Ahead
Planning Africa in 2027 Starts Now There’s a quiet rhythm to how great safaris come together, and it rarely matches the pace of everyday travel planning. While most holidays can be booked a few months out, the lodges, permits and seasons that make Africa extraordinary tend to work on a longer clock. For 2027, that clock has already started ticking. Why July Is When Next Year’s Safari Really Begins Every year, there’s a point where enquiries for the following year’s peak season start landing in earnest, and July tends to be that moment. It’s when camps begin releasing allocations for the year ahead, and when the travellers who’ve done this before quietly get in first. It’s not urgency for its own sake. It’s simply how the industry moves. By the time next year’s dry season or migration window is being widely advertised, the best rooms for it are often already gone. The Camps You Want Only Have a Few Rooms Part of what makes Africa’s finest camps so special is also what makes them hardest to book. Many of the most sought-after properties, particularly in destinations like Botswana, are intentionally small: a handful of suites, a handful of vehicles, a deliberately intimate footprint. That’s the appeal. It’s also the constraint. Gorilla Permits and the Great Migration Don’t Wait Two of Africa’s most bucket-list experiences run on their own strict calendars. Gorilla trekking permits are limited by design, with only a small number issued per day, per park, and they must be secured through a registered operator well ahead of time. Leave it too late and the trek itself isn’t in question, but the date, the family group, or the country might not be yours to choose anymore. The Great Migration is similarly unforgiving. The herds move on their own schedule, and the camps positioned to catch a crossing at its most dramatic hold only a limited number of beds for those exact weeks. Neither of these is a reason to worry. It’s simply a reason to start early. Family Rooms Go First Multi-generational and family safaris have become one of the fastest-growing ways to travel in Africa, and the inventory that supports them (like interconnecting rooms, family suites and larger tents) is often the first to disappear. A lodge might show plenty of availability for two travellers and none at all for a family of five, months before the season even begins. Why One Person Coordinating It All Makes the Difference A journey across several African countries, a few days of safari here, gorilla trekking there, a beach finish somewhere else, involves more moving parts than most travellers realise: internal flights, border logistics, permit timing, and lodge availability that all need to line up. Handled separately, it’s easy for one piece to fall out of step with the rest. Handled by someone with on-the-ground experience who’s coordinating the whole picture from the start, it becomes far simpler. That’s really the value of planning early with the right person alongside you: not just securing a room, but making sure every part of the journey, from the first flight to the final transfer, fits together the way it should. Ready When You Are None of this is about rushing a decision. It’s about giving your journey the best possible foundation while the rooms, permits, and dates you want are still available to choose from. FAQs About Planning an African Safari How far in advance should I book an African safari? For peak-season travel, particularly the Great Migration or gorilla trekking, 12 to 18 months ahead is ideal. Standard safaris generally need 9 to 12 months. Do I need to book gorilla trekking permits early? Yes. Permits are limited per day and must be arranged through a registered operator, so early booking is essential to secure your preferred dates. What’s the best time to plan a Great Migration safari? Planning around 12 months ahead gives you the best chance of securing camps positioned for the migration’s most dramatic moments. Ready to Start Planning your 2027 African journey? Get in Touch
L'art du Safari lent
Africa in Your Golden Years Why Slow Travel Belongs to the Golden Years You’ve earned the best seat in the house – so why not take it? The beauty of travelling in your golden years (or your glorious semi-retirement) is time: time to linger over horizons, to watch light change on a river, to follow a herd not because you must, but because you want to. A slow safari isn’t about ticking off sightings; it’s about letting Africa unfold at a gentler pace – one unhurried dawn, one long sundowner, one velvet night at a time. The Beauty of a Slower Safari Unlike whirlwind itineraries, slow safaris trade “how much can we fit in?” for “how deeply can we experience this?” Think fewer hotel changes and more nights in the same wildlife area; fewer early-morning alarms and more made-to-measure days. Private guides shape each outing around your interests and energy levels. Transfers are streamlined. Comfort isn’t a luxury add-on – it’s the baseline. There’s a quiet magic in this approach. When you aren’t rushing, you notice everything: the soft rumble of elephants before you see them, the way a lilac-breasted roller stitches colour across the sky, the ripple of grass when lions are moving close. Slow travel makes space for chance – those little moments that end up being the big memories. It’s also wonderfully kind to the body. Gentle game drives with stretch breaks. Boat or canoe safaris that let the river do the work. Walks set to your stride, not the clock. Evenings that begin with a proper nap and end under a billion stars. The result? A journey that refreshes rather than depletes, that invites connection – with place, with people, and with each other. Most of all, a slow safari honours why you’re here: to be present. To savour warm bread at breakfast and warm light at dusk. To listen, learn, and let nature set the tempo. In this season of life, the richest luxury isn’t speed – it’s depth. And Africa rewards it, generously. A slow safari isn’t defined by how far you travel – it’s about how deeply you experience each place. Fortunately, Africa is filled with destinations that reward travellers who prefer to linger, each offering its own flavour of calm adventure and gentle wonder. Botswana – Quiet Waters, Endless Skies In Botswana, the safari pace slows naturally. The Okavango Delta glimmers with shifting light and silence; a place best explored by mokoro (dugout canoe) as reed frogs sing and elephants wade nearby. Stay with Golden Africa Safaris, a roving tented camp led by husband-and-wife hosts who curate every detail with care. Days flow gently from game drives to campfire dinners, while the Delta hums softly just beyond the lantern glow. Zimbabwe – Rivers, Rails, and Golden Light For retirees and semi-retirees, Zimbabwe offers a blend of elegance and ease. In Mana Pools, wildlife comes to you – elephants wander right through camp, and canoe safaris along the Zambezi promise gentle excitement. In Hwange National Park, you can trade dusty roads for the Elephant Express, a charming open-sided train that turns travel itself into part of the adventure. Kenya – Connection and Conservation In Kenya, the joy of slow safari lies in its intimacy. Stay at Ithumba Camp in Tsavo East to meet the rescued elephants of the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, or retreat to one of The Wilder Group’s boutique lodges in Laikipia or the Mara, where game drives unfold entirely at your pace. With private vehicles and attentive guides, every sighting feels like it belongs to you alone. Tanzania – Grace and Grandeur Few places feel as timeless as Tanzania’s Serengeti. At Kubu Kubu Tented Lodge, sunrise paints the plains gold as coffee is poured on your veranda; the rhythm of the day is yours to choose. Afterward, retreat to Ngorongoro Farm House, a peaceful hideaway among coffee fields near the crater, where birdsong replaces alarms and evenings are lit by firelight and stars. South Africa – Luxury on the Rails and Beyond If comfort and style top your list, South Africa delivers. Climb aboard Rovos Rail, the continent’s most elegant train, for a slow glide through changing landscapes from Johannesburg to Victoria Falls. Or settle into a coastal retreat along the Garden Route, where cool ocean air promises the perfect soft landing after safari. Each of these journeys has its own tempo – but all share one truth: in slowing down, you see more, feel more, and take home memories that last far longer than a snapshot. The Experiences That Make It Special A slow safari is less about what you see and more about how you feel while seeing it. It’s not about chasing the Big Five in record time – it’s about watching a herd of elephants interact for an hour and realising that’s more moving than ticking five boxes on a list. Here are some of the experiences that make a slow safari truly unforgettable: Sundowners and Starry NightsNo two sunsets in Africa are ever the same. As the day cools, lodges set up small bars in the wilderness so you can toast the light fading behind acacia trees. Later, under the velvet night sky, stories are shared by the fire, and the Southern Cross becomes your evening companion. Canoe and Boat SafarisPerfect for those who prefer their wildlife encounters gentle and rhythmic. Glide (or rather, float) along the Zambezi or through the Okavango Delta’s mirrored channels, where kingfishers flash, hippos snort, and elephants graze on the banks. The water carries you – effortlessly.Luxury Rail JourneysTravel itself becomes part of the adventure on Africa’s grand trains. The Rovos Rail and Elephant Express offer comfort with a dash of nostalgia – fine dining, vintage charm, and landscapes that roll by like living paintings. You can sip your tea as giraffes wander across the horizon.Lingering Meals and Long ConversationsEvery slow safari includes time to savour – home-baked bread at breakfast, al fresco lunches beneath fig trees, dinners by
Luxueux Glamping en Afrique: Combiner confort et aventure
Picture yourself drifting off to sleep under a canopy of stars, serenaded by the symphony of nocturnal wildlife. From the rustling of leaves to the distant roar of lions, the immersive experience of glamping in Africa brings you closer to nature than a traditional lodge ever could—without sacrificing the comforts of high-end travel. Let’s explore some of the finest Africa safari glamping destinations, where luxury meets adventure in the heart of the wild! Why Choose Glamping in Africa? Unlike traditional camping or staying in lodges, glamping in Africa combines the best of both worlds: the thrill of being immersed in nature alongside the luxury of high-end accommodation. Here are a few reasons why glamping in Africa stands out: Immersive Nature Experience: Glamping sites are often situated in remote and pristine locations, offering breathtaking views and the sounds of the bush. Luxury and Comfort: Glamping tents come with plush beds, en-suite bathrooms, and private decks, providing hotel-like comforts in nature. Eco-Friendly Practices: Many glamping operations use sustainable practices, such as solar power and local materials, to minimise environmental impact. Personalised Service: Smaller and more exclusive, glamping camps offer personalised service tailored to your preferences. Privacy and Exclusivity: Fewer guests mean a more intimate and private experience, allowing you to enjoy the solitude and serenity of the wild. Choosing glamping in Africa means embracing the best of adventure and luxury, similar to the experiences offered at some of the top luxury resorts in Africa, creating unforgettable memories in some of the world’s most stunning natural settings. Kenya 1. Governor’s Camp Established in 1972, this historic camp is set in a stunning location along the banks of the Mara River, surrounded by abundant wildlife and pristine savannah. Luxury features: Spacious canvas tents (each with en-suite bathrooms, hot showers, and private verandas) are carefully positioned to ensure privacy and provide stunning views of the river and wildlife. The camp offers gourmet dining experiences, with meals served in an open-air dining area overlooking the Mara River. Credit: Tripadvisor TANZANIA 1. Serengeti Kubu Kubu Camp Located in the central Serengeti, Kubu Kubu Tented Lodge offers an exceptional Africa safari glamping experience amidst one of Africa’s most iconic wildlife reserves. This camp is strategically positioned to offer panoramic views of the Serengeti plains and is ideally situated to witness the Great Migration. Luxury features: The camp features spacious tents equipped with luxurious furnishings, including large beds with high-quality linens and stylish décor that reflects the surrounding landscape. En-suite bathrooms, hot showers, and private verandas ensure guests enjoy ultimate comfort. The lodge offers a refreshing swimming pool, and dining at Kubu Kubu is a gourmet al fresco experience. Credit: Tanganyika Wilderness Camps 2. Tarangire Treetops Set high in the branches of ancient baobab and marula trees, Tarangire Treetops offers an enchanting glamping experience in Tanzania. Located in the private Tarangire Conservation Area amidst the captivating landscape of Tarangire National Park, the elevated treehouses each provide breathtaking views over the surrounding landscape and the distant Rift Valley wall. Luxury features: Each treehouse includes a large, comfortable bed, en-suite bathroom with hot shower, and a private balcony perfect for observing wildlife. The camp offers a stunning infinity pool with panoramic views of the savannah; while delicious meals are served in the dining room or under the stars. Credit: Elewana Collection ZIMBABWE 1. Somalisa African Bush Camp Somalisa African Bush Camp is nestled in the heart of Hwange National Park inside a private concession known for its large elephant herds and diverse wildlife. Here, glamping provides an opportunity to connect with the wild, especially through its renowned sleep-out experience, where guests can spend a night under the stars, surrounded by the sounds of the African bush. Luxury features: The sleep-out platform is located in a secluded area, providing an unobstructed view of the night sky and the chance to observe nocturnal wildlife. Guests are provided with comfortable beds, warm blankets, and mosquito nets, ensuring a safe and cosy night in the open. The experience includes a campfire dinner cooked over an open flame, adding to the authenticity of the adventure. Knowledgeable guides accompany guests, sharing stories and insights about the nocturnal behaviours of the animals and ensuring safety throughout the night. Credit: African Bush Camps 2. Hwange Bomani Tented Camp Located inside a private concession in the southeastern corner of Hwange National Park, Bomani Tented Camp offers an immersive Africa safari glamping experience with spectacular views of the open savannah and the chance to see various wildlife right from your tent. Luxury features: The camp has a mix of spacious canvas tents and thatched chalets, each with en-suite bathrooms, hot showers, and private verandas with views of the plains. The accommodations blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings while a waterhole in front of the camp attracts a wide range of wildlife. Credit: Africa Hidden Gems 3. Nyamatusi Camp Nyamatusi Camp, located on the banks of the Zambezi River, is one of the most luxurious and environmentally friendly camps in Mana Pools National Park. The camp consists of six luxury tents, each offering sweeping views of the Zambezi River. Luxury features: Each tent has a private deck with a plunge pool, ideal for relaxing while observing the river and its wildlife. The open-air dining area pairs fresh cuisine with panoramic views. Besides the game drives and walking safaris, guests can experience canoeing along the Zambezi River and trying their hand at fishing. Credit: Africa Hidden Gems 4. Mana River Camp Mana River Camp, situated along the river, combines rustic charm with luxurious amenities, while its design reflects the natural surroundings with a focus on comfort and eco-friendliness. Luxury features: Each well-appointed tent has an en-suite bathroom and outdoor shower, and includes a private veranda, perfect for watching wildlife and enjoying the tranquil river views. Besides game drives and walking safaris, Mana River Camp also offers photographic safaris and canoeing safaris on the Zambezi River. Credit: Africa Hidden Gems ZAMBIA 1. Kafue Busanga Bush Camp Situated in the remote northern floodplains of Kafue National Park, Busanga
Voyages en Tanzanie
When an opportunity arises to explore some of Tanzania’s most coveted highlights – places that feel like they’ve been plucked straight out of a dream –you don’t hesitate. My journey began with a series of flights, starting from Cape Town, passing through Johannesburg, and making a stopover in Nairobi before reaching Kilimanjaro Airport. Along the way, I reconnected with colleagues and friends, sharing moments of excitement before the trip truly began. Arriving in Nairobi, I spent some time exploring the vibrant city, even managing a visit to the Best Western Meridian Hotel. With its rooftop pool and panoramic views, it promised to be an ideal spot for travellers heading out on safari. Finally, the last leg of the journey brought me to Kilimanjaro Airport, where I was greeted by a familiar face – my guide from a previous Kilimanjaro trek. We were ready to embark on an adventure through some of Tanzania’s most iconic landscapes. ARUSHA AND THE FIRST SAFARI EXPERIENCE Our group gathered at the charming Meru View Lodge, a peaceful retreat nestled at the base of Mount Meru. Among the group were fellow travellers from Germany and South Africa, each as eager as I was to begin our journey. After purchasing a local SIM card to stay connected, we set off on our first safari. Our first stop was Mount Meru Game Lodge & Sanctuary, a hidden gem located in Usa Village, just outside Arusha. Once an animal sanctuary, it’s now a tranquil game lodge where rescued wildlife roams free. The peaceful surroundings offered the perfect start to our adventure, and we were soon immersed in Tanzania’s natural beauty. TARANGIRE NATIONAL PARK: LAND OF THE ELEPHANTS The excitement truly kicked in as we reached Tarangire National Park, a vast landscape famous for its towering baobab trees and herds of elephants. The park unfolded like a scene from a nature documentary, with wildlife appearing at every turn. Elephants, in particular, stole the show, roaming in large groups across the plains. Spending the night in a mobile camp within the park added a touch of magic to the experience – sleeping under the African stars, surrounded by the sounds of the wild. LAKE MANYARA NATIONAL PARK: FLAMINGOS AND TREE-CLIMBING LIONS Next, we ventured to Lake Manyara National Park, a place famed for its tree-climbing lions. While these elusive predators remained hidden, the park offered other wonders: vast flocks of flamingos painted the horizon in pink, while pelicans glided gracefully across the water. The landscape was lush, and the wildlife abundant, making every moment special. Our stay at a rustic adventure camp added an authentic touch to the safari, giving us a true taste of life in the African bush. LAKE NATRON: FLAMINGOS AND A WALK WITH THE MAASAI Leaving the greenery behind, we journeyed to the remote and arid region of Lake Natron. This stark yet striking landscape is known for its flamingo populations and its significance to the local Maasai people. Walking along the lakeshore with a Maasai guide, we learned about the delicate ecosystem and the cultural importance of the area. The day was capped by an awe-inspiring sight: the Great Migration, one of nature’s most dramatic spectacles, unfolding before our eyes. Thousands of wildebeest moved in unison, a sight that left us speechless and in awe of nature’s power. SERENGETI NATIONAL PARK: THE HEART OF THE SAFARI No journey through Tanzania would be complete without visiting the legendary Serengeti National Park. This vast, iconic landscape delivered everything I had dreamed of. Lion prides lounged lazily in the grass, cheetah cubs played under the watchful eye of their mother, and a leopard napped in the branches of a towering acacia tree. The sheer abundance of wildlife was astounding. We spent our nights in luxurious tented camps like Kati Kati and Kubu Kubu, blending the comforts of a hotel with the thrill of being surrounded by the untamed wilderness. The experience was nothing short of magical – falling asleep to the sounds of the African night, knowing that lions, elephants, and giraffes roamed just beyond our camp. https://www.hasslefreeafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/HFA-TravelsThroughTanzania_BlogStory05_V1.mp4 NGORONGORO CRATER: A NATURAL WONDER The final chapter of our safari took us to the breathtaking Ngorongoro Crater. This massive volcanic caldera, teeming with wildlife, is one of the most extraordinary places on earth. As we descended into the crater, it felt like entering another world, where every turn revealed a new wonder. Giraffes and zebras grazed peacefully, and the crater’s unique ecosystem provided a perfect backdrop for our last wildlife encounters. That evening, we stayed at the Old Farmhouse Lodge, a charming retreat where we learned about Tanzania’s coffee production and enjoyed one final evening together, reflecting on the adventure we had shared. REFLECTIONS ON TANZANIA: A JOURNEY TO REMEMBER As the journey came to an end, I found myself looking back on the incredible experiences I had in Tanzania. From the lush landscapes of Tarangire to the vast plains of the Serengeti, from the flamingo-filled shores of Lake Natron to the awe-inspiring Ngorongoro Crater, this adventure had been nothing short of life-changing. Tanzania’s natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and extraordinary wildlife left an indelible mark on my soul. This was more than just a safari – it was a journey of discovery, filled with moments of wonder, awe, and connection to both nature and the people who call this incredible country home. For anyone seeking a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, Tanzania should be at the top of your list. From the Great Migration to the towering baobabs, from Maasai culture to unforgettable wildlife encounters, it’s a destination that will captivate your heart and stay with you forever. Want to book your next Tanzania adventure? Get in Touch
Conquérir Kilimandjaro
From the bustling streets of Dar es Salaam to the summit of Africa’s highest peak – a journey of challenge, beauty, and ultimate triumph. As our plane descended into Julius Nyerere Airport, the city lights of Dar es Salaam shimmered below, twinkling like a starry night. It was hard to believe that just a few hours earlier, we had left behind a freezing Johannesburg. Now, the thick, humid air hit us as we stepped off the plane, a warm welcome to East Africa. The buzzing of large praying mantises around our heads and the unexpected sound of a chicken clucking in the distance were the moments that made it feel like we had truly arrived in Tanzania. Once through the slow process of customs, we were greeted by the friendly staff of our hotel shuttle, ready to take us through the dimly lit streets of Dar es Salaam to the Paradise City Hotel. Even though it was late, the city hummed with life. At the hotel, we found spacious rooms, satellite television, and, most importantly, refreshing air conditioning – a welcome respite from the heat outside. Exhausted after our travels, we settled in for a few hours of rest, knowing our real adventure would begin in the morning. A flight to Kilimanjaro and first glimpse of the mighty mountain After a much-needed sleep and a breakfast served with smiles and a good, strong cup of coffee, we headed back to the airport. Our next destination? Kilimanjaro International Airport. As we flew over the mightyMount Kilimanjaro, its snow-capped peak emerged briefly from the clouds. It was a moment of awe – the mountain seemed both imposing and inviting, a challenge we would soon face head-on. On landing, we were met by our trekking operator, Tanzania Experience, who would guide us both on our Kilimanjaro climb and our safari. The drive to Keys Hotel in Moshi was peaceful, a world away from the bustle of Dar es Salaam. Nestled under lush palm trees with a bright blue swimming pool, the hotel was the perfect place to rest and prepare for the climb ahead. The town itself felt calm and serene, surrounded by coffee plantations and the imposing presence of Kilimanjaro in the distance. As evening fell, we gathered for a pre-trek meeting with Achim, our guide, who brought with him all the gear we had pre-ordered. After a thorough briefing about what to expect on the trek and some last-minute advice on dealing with altitude sickness, we felt both excited and a little anxious about the challenge that lay ahead. After all, Kilimanjaro is no small feat. With hiking boots on and walking sticks in hand, we sat down to a wood-fired pizza, enjoying the anticipation of the adventure that was about to unfold. The climb begins: Hiking to Machame Camp Our journey began early the next morning, greeted by the sound of noisy ibis birds and a steady drizzle of rain. By the time we arrived at Machame Gate, standing at 1490 meters, the rain had set the tone for the day. But with our waterproof gear on and our backpacks loaded, we were ready. Kilimanjaro, hidden by clouds, was still a mystery – yet the excitement of the unknown kept our spirits high. We set off through the rainforest, lush and alive with the calls of monkeys and the rustling of the canopy overhead. The thick green forest seemed to wrap around us as we ascended. The altitude was already making itself known, and as we trekked higher, the climb began to take its toll. Our guide, Gideon, noticed my struggle and kindly took my daypack, offering reassurance that we weren’t far from camp. His calm presence was a comfort, and soon enough, we reached Machame Camp, nestled at 2980 meters. After a challenging day, we were greeted with bowls of warm water to freshen up, followed by a cup of tea and some popcorn. The combination of the mountain air and the East African tradition of tea with popcorn lifted my spirits. Dinner that evening was a surprise – a delicious cucumber soup, beef kebabs, and an avocado cup filled with fruit salad for dessert. It was hard to believe such gourmet meals could be made in these conditions, but the food became a highlight of each day. Shira Camp and the first glance of Kilimanjaro The next morning, we woke to a sight that took our breath away – the snowy peak of Kilimanjaro, finally revealing itself. Its towering presence filled us with both awe and humility. After a hearty breakfast of porridge, coffee, and eggs, we set off again, this time through a landscape that was entirely different from the rainforest of the day before. The trail led us through moss-covered trees, vibrant flowers, and shrubs, with Kilimanjaro watching over us from the distance. By midday, we had reached Shira Camp at 3720 meters, standing high above the clouds. The views were staggering, and we spent the afternoon acclimatizing, hiking to a nearby point at 3900 meters. The altitude was beginning to make itself felt, but the stunning landscape, with its giant Senecio trees and otherworldly atmosphere, kept us going. Lava Tower and Barranco Camp: The challenge intensifies The fourth day on the mountain was one of anticipation. We knew that the next morning would bring the final ascent to the summit. After a steep climb through barren, moon-like terrain, we reached Barafu Camp, the last stop before the summit. At 4640 meters, the air was thin, and the cold was biting. We layered up, trying to get a few hours of rest before the midnight ascent. At 11:30 pm, we were woken for tea and biscuits, our breath visible in the icy air. Headlamps on, we began the final push to Uhuru Peak. Slowly, we snaked our way up the mountain, a trail of lights winding toward the stars. Every step was an effort, but as the sun began to rise, painting the horizon in