Comfort over Budget in a Safari

I get asked this question: "Can I get a quote for a budget safari?" which is quite OK because it is important to work within a budget....and I am happy to share cost options.....but then the budget discussion can get to the point where it makes sense to just not travel in the first place🤷‍♀️. Why do I say so? I am of the mind set that if traveling for leisure, it should be a pleasurable stay. If your stay is leaning towards a downgrade from what you are already used to in your own home, why bother? You will be tconstantly comparing the different amenities (the bed, the bathroom, your room etc) with your own home. Food can be a different experience from what your palate is used to as it could be a cultural experience.

A bed all around the world is plain simple: comfortable or not!

So please do start saving as some times those last minute trips are what bring up some of these discussions. To be honest: comfortable and memorable safaris - can be a costly venture when you add up the park fees, the transport costs, accommodation, excursions and tips - not to mention overhaul flights.....and no it's not a good idea to scrimp on meals by just having one heavy meal in the morning if you are trying to make savings. Going on game drives, hikes and nature walks can work up an appetite so it is strongly advised against cutting down on meals in order to bring down your costs. I can promise you that your most distinct emotion over your trip will be anger accompanying the hunger😡. It wouldn't make that much of a dent in the cost in the first place! The push on budget can override the experience of a comfortable safari.

Also from an economic perspective, be fair to the local people who are going to be part of your itinerary in your experiences at the excursions, offering the transport as these are the likely casualties affected so as to bring down the cost by reducing what they will be paid. Cheaper accommodation can be swapped to bring down the cost but ask what compromises have been made with the substituted accommodation to help in bringing down the cost.

Not sure how to go about making a budget so as to save for your comfortable dream safari, check out this article to give you some tips: https://www.ramseysolutions.com/budgeting/how-to-make-a-budget

The next time you ask your safari planner if they can give you a cheaper quote, also ask what it is they are considering to re-look at in your itinerary so that it does not compromise on your comfortable safari experience.

About the Author

Liz in an open roof top safari vehicle

Liz Waweru is a Safari Planner at her company Exclusive Eco Travels which she has run for 17 years. She is an outdoor enthusiast - having climbed two of Africa's highest mountains - Kilimanjaro and Kenya and loves flowers, going on hikes and nature walks.

She is based in Nairobi, Kenya where she is based with her husband and their two sons. She can be reached on liz@exclusiveecotravels.com, +254 722 332 515. Learn more about Liz and what she does on: www.lizwaweru.com