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Writer's pictureMelanin Travels Magic

How to Safari Like a Pro: The Complete Guide to Your Dream Wildlife Adventure

Updated: Nov 19





Have you ever dreamt to venture on a safari, but left frustrated on How to Safari Like a Pro? Look no further we have drafted for you The Complete Guide to Your Dream Wildlife Adventure ....


If I tell you what, three years ago when we were starting up our entrepreneurial journey, looking for suppliers for safaris, we were quotes about $5,000 - $7,000, for a one-week safari in Arusha - Tanzania. However, with ardent grounds work, networking, and a persistent endeavour to serve our clients with the best accessibility known, the most informative and the ultimate affordability in tourism, last year we bought our own safari in Tanzania for $1,250. Massive negotiations right? And guess what? We still provide clients a range of hotels and lodges to choose from.

 

Tell you a West African myth: in Bandia reserve, Senegal, 13 years ago, we embarked on a safari with our own driver in a regular second-hand car and we arrived at about 9 am. First dismay, there was no lion in sight! We saw so many giraffes, crocodiles, a rhinos, we however missed the early hippopotamus who only show up graciously at early sunrise hours.

 


 

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Table of Content


 




Google Map of the African continent







These myths are no longer a thing once you tour with Melanin Travels Magic on your African trips. We burst more than the safari myths; we burst budget myths around travel as well.

Come on now, plan your next African trip with us and consider the following safaris to start with.

 



Here are a few different types of safaris you can consider:

 

1. Classic Game Drive Safari:




Typical 4X4 Open roof Safari Car
Typical 4X4 Open roof Safari Car


Typical with open 4x4 safari vehicles and experienced tour guides to tour with, these safaris often happen within the course of a day. This gives you the luxury to experience the varied wildlife and have a feel of the parks and vegetation from a cozy seat.



 

Are you ready to plan your next flight to Africa, If yes we got you! Book your next cheap flight on Expedia now!

 

 


 

Most recommended parks and reserves:





Google map of Arusha, Northern Tanzania




 

I. Serengeti National Park, Tanzania: 




Elephant herd drinking in a muddy pond in Serengeti
Elephant herd drinking in a muddy pond in Serengeti


This Tanzanian park is known for its big-five experience - lion, leopard, elephant, rhino & buffalos. The park is one of the most popular world destinations. It features the annual Great Migration which happens yearly with millions of animal species migrating from part to another in search of fresh grazing.

Think of the movie 'Hatari,' then you are thinking Serengeti already.



 

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II. Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Tanzania:



Ngorongoro Crater,  view from above, Tanzania
Ngorongoro Crater, view from above, Tanzania


Home to the stunning Ngorongoro Crater, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a unique safari experience. The enclosure of the crater houses abundant wildlife, including lions, elephants, zebras, flamingos, and rare black rhinos. Interestingly, about two hundred and twelve kilometers away, mountain Kilimanjaro, the highest in Africa, is just in reach to this area.

 


 

Need inspiration for activities in your next solo trip? Why not check what your destination has to offer and plan according to your budget and your preferences? We got you!


 



III. Tarangire National Park, Tanzania: 



2 zebras hugging  in the savannah
2 zebras hugging in the savannah


The most iconic thing prominent in this part are the baobab trees and vast elephant herds. Tarangire National Park is one of the beautiful destinations Tanzania has to offer. The park is known for its diverse birdlife, and large concentrations of elephants.

 


 

Fancy listening the Podcast version of the article? Check it out below




 


Are you Ready to explore Arusha for your next Safari or adventure Trip to Northern Tanzania? Find out the best hotels for your stay now below.




 

 


 




IV. Lake Manyara National Park, Tanzania: 


Lake Manyara National Park offers tourists a picturesque setting for a safari. The park is famous for its tree-climbing lions, huge family of birds, and a large population of hippos and elephants. Admirably about this place too is the flamingo-filled lake.

 



V. Selous Game Reserve, Tanzania:


This reserve is one of the largest in Africa. Selous offers an untouched wilderness experience. It is known for its abundant wildlife, including elephants, lions, leopards, and a significant population of African wild dogs. Boat safaris along the Rufiji River are also a fun highlight.

 


 

Are you ready to plan your next flight to Africa, If yes we got you! Book your next cheap flight on Expedia now!

 

 




VI. Mikumi Game reserve, Tanzania:




Our Founder Christina experiencing Mikumi Flyin safari, Tanzania
Our Founder Christina experiencing Mikumi Flyin safari, Tanzania


It is one of the largest national parks in the country and offers a diverse array of wildlife and breath-taking landscapes. It thus, features two distinct attractions when visited.


(i) Wildlife: Mikumi is home to lions, elephants, giraffes, zebras, impalas, wildebeest, buffalos, and antelopes of many types. It also boasts of a significant population of hippos and crocodiles in its rivers and waterholes. Bird lovers can enjoy over 400 bird species in this incredible reserve.


(ii) The park is also popular for its scenic Landscapes; thus, affording plant lovers the beautiful hues of nature.



 

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VII. Ruaha National Park, Tanzania: 


Ruaha park is a less crowded park, offering a more secluded and authentic safari experience compared to the rest. It equally has a wide range of cats to enjoy the views.

 


 

Are you ready to plan your next flight to Africa, If yes we got you! Book your next cheap flight on Expedia now!
 
 



VIII. Tsavo, Kenya:


Being the largest national park in Kenya, it is divided into two and has very interesting wildlife such as red elephants, maasai giraffes and other well known safari animals.

 

IX. Masai Mara, Kenya:






Masai Mara is an award-winning safari park, where the great migrations of Buffalos happen each year.

 

 

BEST ESIMS for your Tanzanian Trip:


Avoid expensive roaming fees, use our AIRALO PROMOCODES and keep your coins to make the most of your upcoming trip to Ja.


Fancy  staying in touch with your loved  one while travelling? Why not get an Airalo E-sim card and save on those expensive roaming fees? Story of my life my first time in Japan, I was lost in Tokyo and had turned back on Mobile data for 10 mn to use Google Maps and find my way back to the nearest metro  station.


I was horrified when I was back in London and got an extra £90 charge for this emergency connection in Japan! Be wiser than me, use an Esim service as soon as you land at the airport and turn off your Mobile data and Roaming option on your device then.


Type our Promo code NEWTOAIRALO15   to get 15% Discount of your next purchase as a new customer!


Type our Promo code AIRALOESIM10   to get 10% Discount of your next purchase as an existing customer!



 

 

X. Mole National Park, Ghana:



Our corporate clients ready for a Safari drive at Mole Park, Ghana
Our corporate clients ready for a Safari drive at Mole Park, Ghana



The Mole National park of Ghana is popular for its elephants and its antelopes.





 

XI. Kafue National Park, Zambia:


Surprisingly, Zambia is home to about twenty (20) different parks with a varied range of game to see. The famous Victoria Falls is also accessible to the border with Zimbabwe.

 



 

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2. Walking Safari: 







For those seeking a more immersive experience, walking safaris provide an opportunity to explore the wilderness while slowly taking in the view. Accompanied by knowledgeable guides, you can trek and track wildlife, learn about the flora and fauna, and appreciate the smaller intricacies of the ecosystems.

 

Here are some destinations to find the most unforgettable walking safari experiences:

 

I. South Luangwa National Park, Zambia

II. Kruger National Park, South Africa

III. Tarangire National Park, Tanzania

IV. Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe

V. Mana Pools National Park, Zimbabwe

VI. Nairobi National Park, Kenya

VII. Ankarana, Madagascar

VIII. Fathallah, Senegal (Walking with the Lion experience for the brave ones.)

 

 

These are just a few examples of destinations in Africa where walking safaris are a highlight. It's important to note that walking safaris should always be accompanied by experienced guides for safety reasons and to minimize negative impact on the environment.

 


 

Need inspiration for activities in your next solo trip? Why not check what your destination has to offer and plan according to your budget and your preferences? We got you!



 

3. Photographic Safari:



Pride of Lionesses Resting in the shade in Mikumi National Park
Pride of Lionesses Resting in the shade in Mikumi National Park



Perfect for the photogenics, these safaris prioritize capturing stunning images of wildlife and landscapes. They are led by professional wildlife photographers or guides with extensive knowledge of photography techniques and wildlife behaviour.

 

Here are some destinations that are renowned for their photographic safari experiences:

 

 

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1. Maasai Mara National Reserve, Kenya






 

Are you ready to plan your next flight to Africa, If yes we got you! Book your next cheap flight on Expedia now!

 

 


2. Serengeti National Park, Tanzania






3. Kruger National Park, South Africa

4. Okavango Delta, Botswana

5. Sabi Sand Game Reserve, South Africa

6. Etosha National Park, Namibia

 


 

Need inspiration for activities in your next solo trip? Why not check what your destination has to offer and plan according to your budget and your preferences? We got you!




 


4. Canoe or Boat Safari: 







Explore rivers, lakes, or wetlands in a canoe or boat safari. It allows you to observe wildlife from a different perspective, including birds, hippos, crocodiles, and other aquatic animals.

 


 

Are you ready to plan your next flight to Africa, If yes we got you! Book your next cheap flight on Expedia now!

 

 


I. Blue Lagoon, Zanzibar

 




II. Mnemba Island, Tanzania

 


Mnemba Island , Zanzibar
Mnemba Island , Zanzibar


III. Wasini Island, Kenya, Dolphin watching



Dolphin jumping out of the water in Wasini, Kenya
Dolphin jumping out of the water in Wasini, Kenya


 
Need inspiration for activities in your next solo trip? Why not check what your destination has to offer and plan according to your budget and your preferences? We got you!

 

5. Hot Air Balloon Safari:



Rise above the plains and observe the wildlife from a hot air balloon. This unique experience provides breath-taking views and a sense of tranquillity as you glide over the savannah.

 


Luxor Skyview form a hot air balloon above the fields
Luxor Skyview form a hot air balloon above the fields


I. Serengeti National Park, Tanzania

II. Maasai Mara National Reserve, Kenya

III. Namib Desert, Namibia

IV. Luxor, Egypt



 

BEST ESIMS for your Tanzanian Trip:


Avoid expensive roaming fees, use our AIRALO PROMOCODES and keep your coins to make the most of your upcoming trip to Ja.


Fancy  staying in touch with your loved  one while travelling? Why not get an Airalo E-sim card and save on those expensive roaming fees? Story of my life my first time in Japan, I was lost in Tokyo and had turned back on Mobile data for 10 mn to use Google Maps and find my way back to the nearest metro  station.


I was horrified when I was back in London and got an extra £90 charge for this emergency connection in Japan! Be wiser than me, use an Esim service as soon as you land at the airport and turn off your Mobile data and Roaming option on your device then.


Type our Promo code NEWTOAIRALO15   to get 15% Discount of your next purchase as a new customer!


Type our Promo code AIRALOESIM10   to get 10% Discount of your next purchase as an existing customer!


 

 

 

6. Cultural Safari: 



Young Masai Women selling souvenirs in Serengeti National Park, Tanzania
Young Masai Women selling souvenirs in Serengeti National Park, Tanzania


 

Combine wildlife encounters with cultural experiences by visiting local communities and learning about their traditions, art, and way of life. This type of safari promotes cultural exchange and understanding.

 

As per our knowledge and experience, this type of safari is typical with any of the top ten most visited African countries.

 

I do believe you have a bucket list already. While we handle the networking and fixing you something within your budget, we recommend you start parking your bags towards you next African trip and safari experience. With over

 

I. Maasai Mara National Reserve, Kenya

II. Materuni Coffee farming Village, Tanzania

 


 

Are you ready to plan your next flight to Africa, If yes we got you! Book your next cheap flight on Expedia now!

 

 


7. Horseback safari

 


Group of young travellers riding horses by the beach
Group of young travellers riding horses by the beach


Imagine combining wildlife sighting and horse-riding! Loving it right? We have just discovered this type of safari while meeting up with some African Tourism boards in Zimbabwe and Kenya among other countries.



 

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Places where you can enjoy this type of safaris:


I. Zimbabwe: Ride Zimbabwe (Varden Safaris)

II. Kenya: Offbeat Safaris

III. Botswana:

·      African Horseback Safaris, Macatoo Camp,

·      Delta Trail (Ride Botswana)

·      Horizon Botswana

IV. South Africa:

·      Ant's Nest and Ant's Hill

·      Horizon Horseback Adventures and Safari

V. Tanzania : Zanzibar Horse Safaris

VI. Namibia: Namibia Horse Safari Company

VII. Zambia: Zambian Horseback Safaris

 

 


We hope to have inspired you!



Young women toasting a Glass of Champagne
Young women toasting a Glass of Champagne

Credits : Nadine from the Podcast Thetravelingblackwomen



 
Are you ready to plan your next flight to Africa, If yes we got you! Book your next cheap flight on Expedia now!
 
 

Fancy help with planning your next African cultural and leisure getaway?



Group of 4 friends smiling outside
Group of 4 friends smiling outside



Contact us now to start planning your adventurous & cultural escape to in Africa!

Let Melanin Travels Magic take care of all the details so you can focus on enjoying every moment. 

Reach out today to start your adventure! If you don't know where to start you can always reach out for next African safari travel packages.



Or let us help you with our Private Trip Planning service



Let's Plan your next private trip to Africa



 Want a customised next trip to Africa with our expert recommendations? You will get one-on-one help, tour guides, a full itinerary plan, hotel and flight bookings, a personal driver and more. Fill out the form and share some details on your tentative dates, number of travellers and more and We will reach out to you within 48 hours.




 

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Are you inspired? Why not also read our other articles on Exploring more of Tanzania & Zanzibar and Kenya, what to do on a long layover to plan your next trip well-prepared? We got you!

 


Top Things to Do in Arusha: Your Ultimate Guide to Tanzania's Gems


Top 10 things to do when visiting Tanzania in 2023



Top 10 must-do activities while in Nairobi


Top 10 Waterfalls to hike to when visiting Tanzania in 2023

  

Top 15 things to do in Zanzibar in 2023

 

Free City Tours That Will Electrify Your Next Airport Layover

 

Top 5 Tips from an Experienced Traveller for planning Stress-Free Trips

 


 


Client testimonials we have helped exploring & planning their Safari across Africa




 

Ayoka, Joanna and Friend & Family group trip to Zanzibar & Tanzanian Safari, October- November 2022, Travel planner service







"Good communication with Christina in Zanzibar for 3 weeks crazy prices I recommend we loved our stay"

 

 



 

Giselle and Family, London, UK, group trip to Zanzibar & Tanzanian Safari (Day trip to Migumi), February 2023, Travel planner service

 

 




 

"Christina- Melanin Travels Magic- was fantastic, so glad I found her!


I told Christina what I wanted to do and also asked for her advice. Christina put it all together effortlessly, no hassle, no stress and then sent me my itinerary.

Everything ran smoothly and with a child in tow, that's exactly what I needed!

The guides that Christina organised for me were also very good and on time.

Thank you, Christina, you took the hassle out of travel! I will definitely will book with you again. I have also recommended you to others"

 

 


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