africa bound safaris

Africa Bound Safaris

Similar experiences.

Africa Bound Safaris - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

Africa Bound Safaris

Similar experiences.

Africa Bound Safaris - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024) - Tripadvisor

turning dreams into reality

Embark on your dream safari in the beautiful and remote wilds of botswana.

…from $2,628

…from $3,988

…from $5,190

…from $10,071

…from $18,375

Africa Inbound Safaris is a travel agent based in Maun, Botswana – the gateway to the Okavango Delta in Northern Botswana – we are an up-and-coming, vibrant and highly personalized little Company that offers a wide range of safari options not only in Botswana, but also covering the rest of Southern Africa.

With personal experience in every aspect of the safari industry, we pride ourselves in getting to know our individual clients and their visions of their safari expectations, budget and requirements before investigating the perfect safari for you.

if you could imagine the Garden of Eden,

Botswana would be it..

Botswana is a truly unique destination that boasts an incredibly diverse landscape and wildlife experience, all within one country. The country is home to large tracts of land dedicated to conservation, making it the ultimate wildlife destination. The iconic attractions in Botswana include the Okavango Delta, Moremi Game Reserve, Linyanti Swamps, Savute, and Chobe National Park. There are also other attractions such as the Okavango Panhandle, Tshodilo Hills, Baines Baobabs, Nata, Kubu Island, and various Forest Reserves, which add diversity and culture to the mix. Additionally, Botswana is conveniently located near the legendary Victoria Falls, which is often included in many packages.

The tourism and conservation success of Botswana is due to its high cost, low impact tourism strategy. This strategy allows large tracts of land to remain untouched, while exclusive lodges have private access to the African wilderness. However, there are various other ways to experience the wild in Botswana, including mobile camping safaris, motor boats in the Delta’s waterways, walking safaris, horseback riding, and even safari from the back of an elephant. Visitors can also engage with meerkats and the ancient San culture to truly experience the country’s culture and traditions. With so many diverse and unique experiences available, Botswana is a must-visit destination for those seeking a true African adventure.

You are just 3 steps away from the safari and wildlife

experience of a lifetime

Get in contact to let us know your desired budget and experience

We use our extensive experience and knowledge to tailor make your perfect safari adventure

And then you indulge in the best Africa has to offer…it’s that easy

Mobile Safaris

A mobile safari is essentially a privately guided safari where you will travel as one unit with your Professional Guide in a private safari vehicle with a fully equipped back up crew.

Fishing Trips

Tailor made fishing trips for every angler….

Botswana Fishing Trips offers both lodge and houseboat adventures for the whole family!

“We highly recommend Africa Inbound Safaris – simply the best. They know the African travel industry exceptionally well. We felt safe and well taken care of on the entire trip, including the overland travel.

We got the best value for dollars spent and they perfectly tailored the trip to our budget and interests.”

Laurel Hill-Ward

California, USA

about your host, Mel

Mel Albers has worked in the Safari Industry in Botswana since 1999. Born in Zimbabwe, and having spent her childhood in and around the National Parks in Natal, South Africa – her love of the bush grew from there. She currently lives in Maun, Botswana and is passionate about the Tourism Industry, Eco Tourism and the impact that these two have on Botswana and Southern Africa.

Mel has spent her years in Botswana learning every aspect of the Safari Industry – from the very first stages of the logistics side (purchase, supply and delivery) to the flight scheduling and then on to reservations.

Over the years, Mel has compounded her experience by managing luxury lodges, running mobile safaris and training staff on safari and in lodges for all the most reputable companies in Botswana – she now wants to share that intimate experience in the industry with others, planning in detail the perfect safari for you.

With Mel’s knowledge of the bush, the camps and luxury lodges, and the amount of time spent in these camps and lodges, makes her the perfect person to help you plan the ideal itinerary for your dream safari, to encompass very personal requirements. From the pre-planning stage, right through the duration of the safari.

Her extensive knowledge of the tourism industry in Botswana, and specifically safaris in Northern Botswana, the Okavango Delta and Panhandle, and the Kalahari will ensure that your booking is handled personally and in a tailor made manner. Africa Inbound Safaris will always meet your specific requirements; a mobile safari, lodge experience or a mobile safari and lodge combination experience. If it’s a meerkat experience or walking with elephants, horse riding safaris, boating or traversing the Delta by mokoro (dug out canoe); or simply exploring Africa at it’s finest, Africa Inbound Safaris will make your dreams come true.

Our safaris truly do turn dreams into reality and with over 40 years of combined experience in the safari industry, you are, without a doubt, in the best hands!  Let us share our dreams, experiences and knowledge with you.

Top Safari Tips

Travelling requires careful preparation, including passports, visas, and travel documentation for crossing borders…

Who to fly with in Botswana

These are the most popular and reliable airlines to fly you to your Botswanan safari destination.

The Five Top Safari Clients

We’ve identified 5 client types who seem to have a particular affinity with safaris and Botswana…

Safari Types

While all of our Safaris are tailor made to suit specific client requirements and budget, these are…

Contact &Bookings

Use the details below or the form provided to contact us so we can start building your next big adventure.

We can't wait to hear from you.

+267-71866373

[email protected], www.africainboundsafaris.com.

Email Address

10-Days Tanzania Private Safari

13-day tanzania migration december to march safari.

• 8-Day Tanzania Classic Tour

12-Day Tanzania Bush to Beach Safari

6-day umbwe route, 7-day rongai route, 9-day northern circuit route.

• 8-Day Shira Route
• +255 754 373 948
• [email protected]

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Africa Bound Tours

Your holiday is secured when you book with us, so you can book with confidence knowing you are fully secured. What’s more, we’re here when you need us.

Discover the Heartbeat of Tanzania with Africa Bound Tours

Ever dreamt of locking eyes with a majestic lion, feeling the thrill of a gorilla’s gaze, or being swept away by the sheer magnitude of nature’s greatest migrations? Welcome to Africa Bound Tours, where we turn your wildest dreams into tangible memories.

Tanzania is not just a destination; it’s an experience. From the vast plains of the Serengeti to the shimmering sands of Zanzibar, from the towering heights of Kilimanjaro to the mysterious depths of Lake Tanganyika’s chimp-inhabited forests – every corner tells a story, and we’re here to help you write yours.

Best Tanzania Tours and Safaris

Our Tanzania tours are unforgettable. Naturally, the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater are the main attractions on our Tanzania tours and safaris. We also offer tours to Tanzania’s lesser-known reserves & national parks like Nyerere (formerly Selous), Tarangire, Manyara, Arusha national Park and Ruaha. Zanzibar and other Indian Ocean islands have great beach resorts. We recommend combining a luxury Tanzania safari with a tropical beach vacation.

6-Day Tanzania Adventure Safari

16-Day Kenya And Tanzania Private Safari

15-Day Tanzania And Zanzibar Private Safari – Driving to Serengeti

why should you choose us?

We are providing best and high quality of tanzania tours & safaris.

Over the years, Africa Bound Tours has established an unrivaled reputation among its clients and rivals by offering dependable, secure, thrilling, and enjoyable operations.

Consistency

Giving our visitors consistently excellent service is what consistency is all about. and our commitment to providing those visitors with an exceptional experience never wavers.

Eagle Package

At Africa Bound Tours, we never skimp on safety and we never make compromises. We’ll bring you down the mountain after we’ve brought you up. Safely.

Mount Kilimanjaro Climbing Routes

Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania has seven recognized ascent routes that take climbers to the mountain’s summit. Lemosho, Machame, Marangu, Rongai, Northern Circuit, Shira, and Umbwe are among them. The Mweka route is another route that only involves descents.

7-Day Machame Route

Ready to go we got you, cutomized itineraries.

We work closely with all our clients to design a trip as unique as they are.

Luxury Accommodations

We aim for the highest standard on all our trips. 4.5 and 5 star accommodations are where all our guests stay.

Culinary Excellence

Fine dining featuring the best of African cuisine. We accommodate dietary restrictions.

Private Tour Guide

Experience your vacation from the comfort of a private 4×4 vehicle with your own expert guide/driver.

The Ultimate Tanzanian Adventure

Join us on a journey through Tanzania’s most iconic destinations and experience the magic of Africa like never before.

Satisfied Client Stories

Real people, real feedback, and real results – see what our clients have achieved.

Ready to Embark on a Journey of a Lifetime?

Don’t let life’s greatest adventures remain a dream. Dive into the heart of Tanzania with Africa Bound Tours. Your story awaits, and we’re here to help you pen every exhilarating chapter.

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Take a look at the Activities available.

Our activities.

For those seeking adventure, relaxation and excitement, both East and Southern Africa are brimming with a wide range of exciting opportunities to embark on! We have highlighted some, but not all of the activities on offer whilst on safari with our featured destinations. Do remember that there is an extensive and varied range of activities on offer, so do ask us about what you would particularly like to do when on holiday, and we will gladly enquire for you as there are numerous activities available. Choose your options and let Africabound Adventures combine your selected activities in your itinerary and be prepared to enjoy your once-in-a-lifetime dream safari!

White Water Rafting & Abseiling

Boost your adrenaline levels by abseiling down the Batoka Gorge in Zambia. The rapids of the Zambezi, below the Victoria Falls, offer some of the finest and most exciting rafting waters in the world. The best months are between August and November, when the rapids are at their best. However, both high water and low water rafting are available at other times of the year. Trips start at the Boiling Pot, just below the Falls, and then wind through the spectacular gorges with as many as 21 major rapids.

Gorge Swinging & Bungee Jumping

Throw yourself off the edge of the gorge in a body harness, for a free fall of 50 metres and end with numerous pendulum swings before being lowered to the ground. Not for the fainthearted, the Victoria Falls offers some of the highest and most spectacular bungee jumps on the planet.

Quad Biking

This is a popular adrenaline activity available in South Africa, Zambia, and the region. Hourly, half day or full day rides can be arranged.

Micro-lighting & Helicopter Flights

Enjoy the fantastic views of the Victoria Falls and the surrounding wilderness from a micro-light aircraft. Enjoy the stunning views of the Falls, the Zambezi River, the Batoka Gorge and the Mosi-Oa-Tunya Game Park from the comfort of a modern helicopter.

Desert Safari

Fly over some of the world’s highest sand dunes at Sossusvlei in the Namib Desert while admiring the contours of the dunes. Or you can embark on a guided or self-drive route through Namibia, whilst experiencing the vast and spectacular landscape.

Hot-Air Balloon

Enjoy a thrilling hot-air balloon flight over the plains, soaring gently above wildebeest, elephants and giraffes in Kenya’s Maasai Mara or Tanzania’s Serengeti. Finish this amazing experience with a champagne breakfast.

Jet Boating

Thrilling jet-boat rides through the rapids and gorges of the Zambezi River and the Batoka Gorge in Zambia.

Mountain Trek

Set yourself a challenge and climb the snow-capped peaks of Mount Kenya or a trek up Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania.

Unwind and relax, enjoying lazy days on scenic white sandy beaches in Zanzibar, Mombasa, Cape Town and by Lake Malawi. Explore Cape Town’s beautiful beaches and exciting restaurants framed by Table Mountain. You can also enjoy various water activities including swimming and snorkelling.

Boating and Water Sports

Enjoy boating and water sports in Zambia, Botswana, Malawi and South Africa, to name a few destinations. The lakes and sea are great opportunities for boating, sailing, and other water sports including water-skiing and wind-surfing.

If your passion is fishing, Africa will not fail to delight. Fishing can be enjoyed throughout the year at most of our featured destinations, but the best time is usually between April and November.

Cultural Safaris

The varying traditions in Africa provide a rich cultural tapestry to fascinate you. Africa’s cultural make-up of tribal nations is very diverse and colourful. A number of ceremonies take place throughout the year which reflects this continent’s multi-faceted heritage. Africa’s southern and eastern peoples are sure to enthral you with their culture and warm friendliness. Cultural tours visiting local villages and communities can be arranged at all our destinations.

Horseback Trails and Safaris

Horseback trails are available at some lodges and game ranches. These are led by experienced rider/guides and are a great way of offering prolific bird and game watching opportunities.

Walking Safaris

Zambia is the pioneer of the walking safari in the South Luangwa. This is the best way of getting really close to nature. Escorted by experienced guides, walkers are able to see, feel and hear the wildlife surroundings in the bush. Walking safaris are offered at most of our featured destinations.

Game Drives

These are operated in open vehicles, usually at dawn and dusk. They are accompanied by rangers and trackers who possess a sixth sense of where to seek out the most interesting wildlife. Book your seats for the greatest wildlife spectacle on earth! In Tanzania, the Serengeti is teeming with wildlife and you can view over a million wildebeest migrate across the plains in Kenya, and spot lions and elephants on a game drive in the world-renowned Kruger National Park in South Africa.

Canoe and Boat Safaris

A great alternative to land-based safaris, and no real boating skills are required for canoes. Cruise along the Zambezi River or the Okavango Delta and other waterways, which provide excellent views of wildlife such as buffalo and elephant as they come down to drink at the water’s edge.

River Cruises

Enjoy breakfast, mid-morning, lunch, sunset and dinner cruises, with sumptuous meals and a full bar along the lakes and rivers of Southern and East Africa’s waters.

Bird Watching

Africa is a paradise for bird watching! Southern and east Africa offers the finest bird watching opportunities in the region. Lochnivar National Park in Zambia shelters 428 species in its comparatively small 410sq km and its claim to hold the world record for the diversity of types has not been challenged. The Serengeti also boasts almost 500 different bird species, including; storks, flamingos, vultures, fish eagles, martial and ostriches. All the other National Parks are rich in birdlife.

Flower Lovers

Due to the region’s fertile soil and all-year temperate climates, the southern part of Africa is sure to delight flora enthusiasts. Bougainvillaea, hibiscus, jacaranda and eucalyptus abound, attracting a host of multi-coloured butterflies.

Tour the winelands on the Western Cape and you can stop to sample some of the finest wines that South Africa has to offer. The world-famous vineyard such as the Stellenbosch is one not to miss. You can take a self-drive through the Garden Route to enjoy the spectacular scenery, and visits to golf courses can be arranged from select resorts that offer this facility.

Some of our featured camps and lodges offer their own in-house spa treatments. Ask us for details when selecting your accommodation if you would be interested in spa relaxation.

Photography

Remember, every activity brings with it a photo opportunity, so don’t forget to pack your camera and equipment to capture your special moments on safari! You will be spoilt for choice by arranging your safari holiday with us!

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Bush Bound Africa Safaris

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Bush Bound Africa Safaris offers exceptional, affordable adventure tours in Africa, aiming to be the premier tour operator in the region. Our tours combine authentic bush life with remarkable comfort. From luxurious tented camps to exclusive game drives, every detail enhances your experience. Explore Africa's stunning destinations, including Victoria Falls, Okavango Delta, Masai Mara, Serengeti, and more.

Safaris & Tours 0 – Offered by Bush Bound Africa Safaris

No safaris offered by Bush Bound Africa Safaris on SafariBookings at the moment.

Reviews 8 – About Bush Bound Africa Safaris

Latest user review, for a tour that is unique and satisfies your interests, use bush bound africa safaris.

I had been to Africa before but on this tour I was blown away by the amount of wildlife we saw. Some of that was luck but some of it was that Allen had put together an itinerary that went a bit off the beaten track and not to same places...

Full Review

• All corporate and/or tour info is provided by Bush Bound Africa Safaris , not SafariBookings
• The tours offered by Bush Bound Africa Safaris are subject to their terms & conditions

Africa Safari Trip: A Comprehensive Guide To Crafting Unforgettable Memories

H ave you witnessed a lion’s roar echo across the savanna or watched a herd of elephants lumber by? An Africa safari trip is an otherworldly experience, but where do you even begin? This guide will equip you with all the essentials to plan your unforgettable adventure . Even though it can seem overwhelming at times, if you’re equipped with the right guidance and information, the procedure is rather easy.

To help you plan the perfect safari tour in Africa, in addition to answering the majority of your frequently asked questions, we’re put together some of the greatest tips and useful suggestions.

Choosing the Location of Your African Safari Trip

An Africa safari trip promises an enchanted world of discovery, where each expedition and place holds the potential to reveal a captivating tale. Every area of this enormous continent, from the lush deltas of the south to the brilliant savannahs of the east, offers a different fabric of fauna and culture. This is more than just a journey—it’s an exploration of the core of nature, where opportunity abounds at every turn.

African safaris are unique among travel experiences because of the authentic, natural spectacle of the wild. These excursions aim to fully immerse you in the world of animals, not just observe them. Planning your destination is among the most crucial aspects of preparation for any holiday, including this one. Africa is vast, so it’d be helpful to start with a “where to go on an Africa safari trip” Google search if you have no idea what to do.

To select the ideal safari destination, you must consider the things you wish to see. Are there any specific animals or cultural events you would like to see? Kenya and Tanzania from July to October are your best choices if you’ve always wanted to see the Great Wildebeest Migration. Visit either Botswana or South Africa to see a huge herd of African elephants throughout the year.

In East Africa and the majority of Southern African nations, the “Big Five” are also widely distributed. Travel to Uganda, Rwanda or the Congo for gorilla trekking; these countries are all in Central Africa. If you want to see chimpanzees on your Africa safari tour, Uganda is the ideal place to do it.

Top 5 Choice Destinations for Your Africa Safari Trip

Here are our top five African wildlife safari destinations to help you plan your trip.

Kenya’s Maasai Mara National Reserve

At the Maasai Mara Reserves, the Big Five roam free, and boundless plains extend into the horizon on a wildlife safari. Traveling off-road and appreciating the lack of fences and lodging at any of the Mara conservation areas allows you to experience the breathtaking sight of countless wildebeests roaring across the East African savanna around the Great Migration.

From open safari vehicles, watch as lions hunt their prey with unparalleled subtlety. Elephants socialize within their close-knit groups, and elegant giraffes peruse acacia trees with grace. A fascinating insight into the Maasai people’s dynamic local culture, which is entwined with the land, its profusion of wildlife, and the natural beauties of the wildness itself, is provided by Maasai Mara.

Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park

Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park is home to a large environment that is brimming with life. See the boundless plains packed with antelopes, zebras, and wildebeests as they migrate in a never-ending dance of survival throughout your Africa safari trip. It’s what you anticipate seeing on game drives following your viewing of National Geographic or PBS programs. You might be amazed watching the big cats lounging in the shade following a good hunt, or you might experience the exhilaration of seeing a cheetah racing across the landscape in a flurry of speed.

There are other methods to observe wildlife, such as taking a hot-air balloon flight across the savanna for breath-inspiring, all-encompassing views of this iconic African terrain. Seasonality is essential when thinking about visiting the Serengeti; never schedule an unplanned online vacation.

Zambia’s South Luangwa National Park

You can feel the African wilderness in Zambia, not just see it. In contrast to safaris that are limited to metal enclosures, South Luangwa encourages you to stroll among the animals rather than drive by them. Imagine your heart racing as you make your way through verdant riverine forests full of leopards hiding in their disguises, only to be astounded by vast herds of buffalo crossing wide-open savannas.

As you approach elephants bathing, listen to the Luangwa River’s rushing waters, which will lead you to the echoes of night safaris. You can unwind in the unexpected comfort of fly tents or treehouse retreats when the stars adorn the sky.

South Africa’s Greater Kruger National Park

You can journey across acacia woodlands and tour places with sun-filled savannas along the rushing waters of the Sabi River in South Africa’s Greater Kruger National Park. Hear the echoes of prehistoric existence and see the exhilarating dance of adventures amidst the rare species. Renowned for its almost assured Big Five meetings, you get to experience the exhilarating thrill of seeing elephants trumpeting by a waterhole or lions relaxing in golden light—you don’t have to imagine it.

There is more to Kruger’s artistry than the Big Five. Higher populations of predators and a more varied array of species can be found in the superb private game reserves found in the Greater Kruger National Park. Wander along the river where crocodiles and hippos sunbathe before becoming lost in the rainbow of more than 500 different bird species.

Botswana’s Okavango Delta

Emerald islands emerge from the reflecting waters of the spreading waterways of Botswana’s Okavango Delta, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A mokoro is a native dugout canoe in which you may sail softly and intimately while spotting sleeping hippos afar and thirsty elephants sipping at the riverbanks .

Search among the trees for one of the greatest spots to see leopards or take in the aerial views of storks, eagles, and pelicans.

In such a distant location, the Okavango Delta boasts one of the largest concentrations of upscale safari resorts in Southern Africa, providing you with exclusive access to convenience and uncrowded rivers for a singular embrace of unspoiled wildlife.

Tips For An Outstanding African Safari Adventure

The foundation of a great African safari is effective communication. It makes sure you get the best possible experience out of your trip by bridging the gap between what you expect and the actual conditions of the environment. There are three communication techniques to help you receive the experience you want by interacting with an Africa safari trip guide or travel advisor .

Clearly state your demands and desires. Tell us about your ideal speed, cultural attractions, the wildlife you hope to see, and any unique interests you may have, such as birdwatching or photography. This enables your guide to customize your safari adventures based on your interests and budget. Mention any possible restrictions. Any physical restrictions or sensitivity should be disclosed to your guide to guarantee a fun and safe trip.

Pose inquiries. Never be afraid to ask questions about anything that piques your curiosity, be it local customs or the behavior of animals. Your guide holds a wealth of information that is just waiting to be discovered.

African safaris are an ode to the diversity and grandeur of nature. Every excursion offers a chance for a profound and intimate connection with nature. However, in a world full of breathtaking locations, the real art of travel is in how you take in each one. Each destination has a spirit of its own, and you can make transforming vacation experiences with the correct itinerary in addition to ones that are simply memorable.

Whether you’re traveling to the wild African savannahs or the charming countryside of Tuscany, creating a one-of-a-kind, dreamlike trip requires careful planning and vital information. It all comes down to creating a seamless, stress-free, and uniquely personalized tapestry of memories.

People Also Ask

How far should my Africa safari trip be scheduled? It’s advisable to make reservations eight to twelve months in advance of when you wish to go or depart for your selected African safari location. Enough time guarantees availability and your place at the top of the line for the most desirable experiences that Africa presents. It is always better to schedule your safari trip earlier than undergo a last-minute rush.

When is the ideal time to go on an Africa safari trip? The dry season, which runs from June to October, is the ideal time to go on a safari. Since it’s a warmer period of the year, there’s a greater chance that you’ll spot creatures looking for water. You can also witness the famous Masai Mara migration during these months.

I've been on over 100 safaris across Africa and repeatedly see tourists make 11 big mistakes, from sleeping in to ignoring birds

• I've been on over 100 safaris and often see tourists make the same mistakes time and again.
• Some ignore birds, while others exit the vehicle to get closer to wildlife, which is dangerous.
• Here's my advice on what not to do on safari, plus tips to improve your chances of seeing wildlife.

I'm a travel writer living in Nairobi, and I've been on more than 100 safaris across Africa.

I currently live in Nairobi, Kenya, working as a travel writer and vlogger, and have been to about 15 countries in Africa over the last 10 years.

As part of my travels, I often go on safari where I'm always awed by how large elephants are, the cunning nature of hyenas, the agility of leopards, the social life of lions, and the beauty of lilac-breasted rollers.

I've been on well over 100 safaris for leisure or on assignment as a journalist, in countries like Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia, and my home, Kenya.

On many of those safaris, I've shared vehicles with other tourists, and met travelers from all over the world, from the United States to Russia and Europe. I've also observed some common mistakes that people seem to make when they take this type of trip.

Here are the biggest safari mistakes to avoid, plus my tips for how to maximize your experience.

Most often, I've observed tourists become disappointed when they don't see wildlife.

I've been to most of the wildlife parks in Kenya, like Amboseli , Samburu , Shaba , Tsavo East & West , Meru , and Lake Nakuru National Parks .

I always find the big cats impressive here, such as lionesses chasing a zebra through the plains, or a leopard hauling its prey up a tree as hyenas circle below hoping it falls.

On a recent safari, I observed two-month old lion cubs, still too young to eat meat, lapping up blood from a gazelle that their mother hunted and dragged under the shade of bushes. This sighting was, however, at the end of a three-hour morning game drive.

Whenever I'm sharing a vehicle with other tourists, particularly first timers, I see some becoming impatient after a few hours without such sightings.

It's understandable; you've come to Africa for the safari of a lifetime, and want to see and photograph it all. But as I've learned, you can't set up an appointment with wildlife. Sometimes, a leopard remains elusive. 

I think you'll have a better time if you're able to relax and enjoy the sightings as they come.

In addition to being patient on drives, I don't think visitors communicate what they hope to see to their guide, or make enough attempts.

If there's an animal you really want to see, speak up.

Guides can use their expertise and knowledge of the landscape to drive to the areas where they know that you're more likely to spot the animals that you hope to see.

You should also plan to go on more than one game drive. For a two to three-day trip, I recommend going for both morning and evening drives, every day, to maximize your chances. 

One of the biggest mistakes tourists make is thinking they can get out of the vehicle to take photos with wildlife. It could risk your life.

While on safari, I've seen tourists in other vehicles get out in areas to try and get close to wildlife where park rules prohibit them to do so.

You should always stay in the safari vehicle, and if you need to get out, communicate that to your guide who knows the landscape and will advise if it's safe.

Rather than risk your life, there are other places you can go if you want to get up close with animals.

In Nairobi, I like to spend time with orphaned baby elephants at Sheldrick Wildlife Trust and watch them mud bathe and guzzle milk formula. Another option I recommend is to feed pellets to Rothschild Giraffes at Giraffe Center.

And at Mosi-Oa-Tunya National Park in Zambia, visitors may join rangers to track the endangered southern white rhinos on foot, which will place you within a few feet of the animals.

Not only are experiences like these safe, but they still provide the thrill of an up-close encounter, and proceeds usually go back to the continued protection of the wildlife. 

Often, I meet tourists who only go to the most popular parks, and in the high season. Then, they complain about how crowded it is.

Some of Africa's best-known parks are Serengeti National Park in Tanzania, Maasai Mara Game Reserve in Kenya, and Kruger National Park in South Africa. And I understand the popularity — all of these destinations have an abundance of wildlife and stunning landscapes.

According to Safari Outfitter & Beyond , who I've been with on safari a few times in Serengeti and Maasai Mara, the best time for a Kenyan safari is the high season from June to October, when sparse vegetation and limited water draws wildlife to waterholes making them easier to spot.

But because of this phenomenon, I've always found this time period to be busy and crowded, which can take away from the experience.

In my experience, guides tend to work collaboratively and radio one another whenever there's a sighting, and when word gets out that a coalition of cheetahs were spotted, soon there are 20 cars charging to surround them at the same time. I also find the parks become particularly busy during the annual wildebeest migration season, and lodges get fully booked as tourists travel to witness it.

I've seen first-timers then become frustrated that the experience isn't the remote safari they pictured.

If you prefer less crowds, choose a less popular park, or consider a visit at another time.

I've seen many tourists wrongly assume that Africa is hot all the time, and fail to pack warm clothing.

In my experience, visitors to Africa tend to have the perception that it will be really hot, all the time. I think this is probably because of documentaries and movies they might have watched where people are dressed as such, and that's how the landscape is portrayed.

But I've found that isn't always the case. I've experienced many cold nights in some parks, even if it's not the rainy season when it can be cold and wet.

According to Masai Mara , temperatures in that park can range between 52 and 82-degrees Fahrenheit, and I know it will feel quite cold when it hits that lower end.

I suggest that visitors bring warm clothing to layer like jackets, scarves, and even gloves. Plus, some safari vehicles are open on the sides, and in my experience, this can make it feel really cold when driving fast during the day, too. 

Another big mistake I've witnessed is choosing not to wake up early for game drives.

Guides have explained to me that the best times for game drives are the cooler hours of the day, around sunrise and sunset.

They say this is because it's when the weather is more comfortable for animals. During later parts of the day, guides have said that animals prefer to stay tucked away under the shade to avoid the scorching heat. This means it's less likely you'll see much action if you choose to head out only in the afternoon.

To increase my chances of seeing wildlife, I choose morning drives that require wake-up calls as early as 4:30 a.m. On those drives, I've shared a vehicle with others where I heard them complain that it's too early.

It definitely is, and the roads can be rough, and the drives can be long and tiring, particularly if it's several days back to back. But I know morning is the best time to go if you want to see as many animals as possible.

I've spotted wildlife later in the day, too, but whenever I've come across a pride of lions around midday, for instance, they're usually sleeping.

Discuss with your guide to figure out a schedule that works best for you. If you can wake up early, though, I find the sunrises over the African bush are always so spectacular. Why would you want to miss such beauty?

Ignoring bird life is another commonly-made mistake.

It took me around 30 game drives to finally get into birdwatching.

I started off indifferent, but now I squeal with excitement when I spot a Marshall Eagle with its large wing-span perched atop a tree at Shaba National Reserve in Kenya, or if I've eyed a small gazelle, or a kettle of vultures stealing a zebra carcass from a hyena.

I wish I knew sooner that birds are really cool, and I think many visitors make this same mistake because they become too focused on just large wildlife.

I finally came to this realization thanks to helpful guides I met who helped me learn interesting facts about birds and their social life, and now I'm always left wanting to know more. 

I don't think many people realize that there are many ways to do a safari.

With over 100 safaris under my belt, I've been on so many game drives that I started getting a little jaded about driving around and seeing animals from a land cruiser, every time.

So I decided to switch things up recently, and I don't think many people know there are other ways to see wildlife besides from a car.

I've now been on several hot air balloons, from which I've spotted elephants in Amboseli National Park with Mt. Kilimanjaro's snow-capped peak in the background. And it was from a balloon that I tracked black rhinos through the mud one rainy morning in Borana Conservancy .

I've also enjoyed camel-back safaris, boat cruises, and sunset walking safaris, and recommend working them into your itinerary to experience different perspectives.

Please stop bringing plastic bags and bottles into the parks.

Countries like Kenya and Rwanda have banned single-use plastics including water bottles, straws, disposable cups, and cutlery in protected areas like parks, forests, and beaches.

You're often not even allowed to bring your plastic bag carry-ons through the airports. According to section 144 of Kenya's Environmental Management and Co-Ordination act , if you're caught breaking this law, there are severe fines of one to four years in jail, or a $16,000 fine.

And while I haven't heard of cases of tourists being charged or fined, I still often see them trying to bring these items into the parks, where they're usually confiscated.

I think it's better to just plan ahead and adhere to the law, and also to make more efforts to be respectful of the land to preserve it for generations to come.

I wish lodge guests would be more considerate of others and keep the volume of their music down.

In my experience, many rooms at overnight lodges are located really close to each other.

In a few instances, I've struggled to sleep or relax as guests next to me played really loud music.

I can appreciate a good playlist as much as the next person, but I wish more tourists would be more considerate of other guests.

I find going to the bush to be a time for serenity and disconnecting from the bustle of city life. Returning to blasting music detracts from that feeling, in my opinion.

Instead, turn your music off and take your stay as a chance to listen to the sweet cacophony of nature. And should you strongly desire to still listen to Drake over the hippos grunting in the distance, please just keep your volume at a reasonable level.

Finally, I think too many tourists don't take advantage of the low season when it's much easier to plan a safari on a budget.

In the low season between March and May when there is often heavy rain, the roads get muddy and vegetation grows tall and thick.

In my experience, this draws less tourists, and as a result, lodges tend to reduce rates to attract visitors. I've found you can save a lot of money if you visit then instead of high season.

So if you're looking to go on safari on a budget and don't mind getting wet from time to time, you might want to come during this period, since I've seen firsthand that the wildlife is still visible. I also think it's a unique time since the vegetation is lush and green, the bird life is abundant, and new calves are birthed. 

I've also seen that fewer tourist numbers means less congestion of vehicles in parks for a more isolated experience.

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