How to Book East Africa Safaris

Whether you are a novice or a seasoned traveler, a journey to East Africa or Africa in general begins with booking. Like any traveler, you could be wondering how to book East Africa safaris.
Booking East Africa safaris can be challenging sometimes because you are traveling to new destinations. The way things are done back home can be different from how things are done in Africa.
To start with, you should decide on which region in Africa to visit. At Flawless Adventure Planners, we shall walk you through the essential steps on how to book East Africa safaris.
Africa is composed of regions like East Africa, Central Africa, Southern Africa, Northern Africa, and Western Africa.
The 5 key regions contain Africa’s 54 countries, each having distinct geographical landscapes and cultures.
This guide is essential for all travelers seeking to book East African safaris with Flawless Adventure Planners. Specifically, it focuses on travelers planning to visit Rwanda, Uganda, Tanzania (Zanzibar), and Kenya (including Mombasa).
How to Book East Africa Safaris

Ultimate Step-by-Step Guide on How to Book East Africa Safaris

Select your primary destination.

Choosing the right destination always marks the first steps when booking any African safari. East Africa is composed of multiple countries or destinations.
Ascertaining where you want to have your next holiday is really significant. The choice of destination you make should be informed by what you are interested in doing.
Is it gorilla trekking that your interest is in, or anything else? Here is a breakfast of signature experiences you could be looking at engaging in.
  • Gorilla trekking in Rwanda or Uganda
  • Chimpanzee tracking/trekking in Kibale National Park, Budongo Forest, Kyambura Gorge, or Nyungwe Forest National Park.
  • The Great Wildebeest Migration in Masai Mara, Kenya, or Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park.
  • Big 5 safaris
  • Best places to visit to explore the Big 5 game in East Africa:
  • In Uganda, expect to visit Murchison Falls National Park, Kidepo, and Queen Elizabeth National Park.
  • Rwanda big 5 safaris are enjoyed in Akagera National Park.
  • Kenya –explore Maasai Mara Reserve, Tsavo West and Tsavo East, Lake Nakuru National Park, Amboseli National Park, Ol Pejeta Conservancy, and more.
  • Boat tours
  • Boat safaris in East Africa: Lake Nakuru, Lake Naivasha, Kazinga Channel, Lake Mburo, Murchison Falls, and Lake Ihema in Rwanda.
  • Hiking/mountaineering adventures (Rwenzori Mountains, Kilimanjaro, or Mount Kenya) or Virunga Volcano hikes in Mgahinga or Volcanoes National Park.
  • Is it beach or romantic holidays in Diani, Zanzibar/Mombasa?
  • Or are you interested in cultural immersion in Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania and Rwanda?
East Africa offers plenty of amazing choices for you.
However, the common mistake most visitors make is to pick a destination based on a single striking piece of content they come across or inspirational pictures.
It is always essential to match the destination to your wildlife or adventure priorities. At Flawless Adventure Planners, we even make planning African safaris easier by offering multi-country itineraries.

Know your budget, group size, dates, duration, and general travel parameters.

East Africa safaris differ in terms of budgets but accommodate from budget to super luxury holidaymakers.
Defining your parameters is key when booking East Africa safaris.
This can guide you in determining the kind of itinerary structures and ensure that you embark on a realistic travel plan.
You can easily narrow down what is achievable from the diverse offers you have.

Conduct thorough Research and Request Quotes.

Identifying a reputable safari operator in East Africa is a remarkable step when booking an African safari holiday.
Multiple companies are present, but be aware of some that have not been registered.
As you plan to secure an East Africa slot, first, you should know who to contact and what to ask.
A reputable safari company should have a review(s) on TripAdvisor or Google.
You can also check if the company is registered (licensing) and, additionally, how quickly they respond to inquiries you send.
As you send an inquiry or request quotes, try as much as you can to provide the safari company with details. These can range from exact travel dates, group size, accommodation type, wildlife priorities, and more.
Do not always be quick to decide based on cheap quotes. Know the value you are seeking, and a good reason to book your dream African holiday with us.

Secure Your Safari Booking

After you have finalized the itinerary, you will be requested to deposit to help the company book;
  • Gorilla trekking permits
  • Domestic flights (in case you are on East Africa fly safaris)
  • Transportation and guides
  • Hotel/accommodation bookings
  • Ensure that you deposit the money to the relevant account details provided to you by our expert. Do not deposit money into an account that doesn’t reflect our company name. Note: deposits are significant, especially during the peak seasons when demand is high for permits and accommodation.
  • Book Your International Flights
After your travel dates and gorilla permits have been confirmed, you can also have your flight booked in advance. We can always advise you on relevant arrival and departure plans based on the travel itinerary you book.
Key East African Airports include Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, Kigali International Airport, Entebbe International Airport, and Kilimanjaro Airport.

Get ready for your East Africa safari.

As your actual travel dates get close, you should take a moment to organize your visas, packing list, confirm travel insurance, keep in touch with your safari consultant, and have some cash (including local currency).

Best time to book East Africa safaris

Peak months of the year in East Africa, also regarded as the favorite time to go on a safari, extend from June to October, generally.
July to September is the best period for witnessing the powerful Mara River crossings.
Ensure that you secure a slot in advance, about 9 to 12 months.
The demand for lodges tends to be high during peak months and cuts across gorilla safari destinations and also the Masai Mara or Serengeti where the wildebeest migration occurs.
The best time to witness the calving sessions is December to February, and you can consider visiting the Masai Mara or Serengeti.
The same duration is ideal for gorilla trekking, being the dry months in Bwindi and Mgahinga.

Discover East Africa with Flawless Adventure Planners

Contact our safari consultant team to guide you in securing the right package.
We can craft a unique East African safari package for you.
Our offers are never restrictive, meaning you have plenty of options to pick the best.