Considering a trip to Africa? You’re likely mulling over whether to embark on an adventure alone with a self-drive tour or opt for the expert-led experience of private guided tours. Self-drive allows you set your own pace on these tours. Whether you decide to rise early or sleep in is completely up to you. Additionally, feel free to make spontaneous stops along the way. Any intriguing spots that catch your eye are fair game, such as pubs, scenic overlooks, or anything offbeat and not included in a typical itinerary. This provides you with more freedom while choosing where to stay. With self-drive you can even get last-minute accommodation, which can add an extra special element to your Irish journey. This can compensate for any drawbacks that you may encounter during the self guided trip in Africa.

With guided tours, you’re in good hands on a private guided tour with knowledgeable guides. They provide valuable context to the places you visit that might otherwise go unnoticed on self-drive tours. Taking the stress out of your travel is an integral part of these trips. Accommodation, transportation, and itineraries are all taken care of on guided vacations, allowing you to enjoy exclusive experiences that individual travelers may not have access to

There are several unique benefits to be had from each option. Deep exploration of the area can be done at your own pace. You have the flexibility to create a custom itinerary. Meeting locals up close is another plus. However Professional guides with local knowledge and insights into African history can make your vacation even more memorable. Consider the following ideas before embarking on your African tour.

Advantages of Self Drive

PRIVACY: If you are looking for private time with your family, friends or loved ones, then a Uganda self-drive adventure will do the job. You won’t need to worry about an outsider eavesdropping on your trip conversations or any other intrusion when you decide to drive yourself.

CHEAP: You will cut out driver’s costs when you choose to self drive Uganda giving you a chance to spend that money on other essential trip items. Driver costs include his meals and accommodation meaning you won’t cover that when you do not hire one.

FLEXIBLE: The pre-planned and crated Uganda tour packages limit you to only th destinations in the itinerary contrary to self drive trip that offers you the flexibility to visit any destination of your choice at your own pace and time.

CAR CHOICE: You can easily get any car of your choice when you decide to drive yourself. There are a variety of rental cars available ranging from 4×4, SUVs, sedans, minivans and luxury cars you can choose from.

Advantages of Guided Tour

COMFORT: When you decide to rent a car in Uganda with a driver, rest assured you will enjoy the most comfortable road trip of your life. No need to worry about driving long distances, fixing a mechanical problem, replacing a flat tire, washing the car or any other chore.

SECURITY:  Another advantage of traveling with a local driver is for safety purposes especially if its your first time in Uganda. A driver will help protect you from fraudsters, robbers or any other malicious people who like to take advantage of tourists and foreigners.

DIRECTIONS: You won’t have to worry about getting lost when you travel with a driver, unlike the self-drive option which is not reliable when it comes to routing. A GPS or Google Maps are useful direction gadgets but not as accurate and up-to-date as a driver with vast route and destination experience.

LOCAL INTERACTIONS: There is no better way of sampling the culture and way of life of locals than with a driver. He will help you interact with the locals giving you chance to learn some tribal words, tasting the local dishes, attending a private traditional ceremony among others- things you wouldn’t try out if you were on self drive trip.

In conclusion, a self-drive trip is cheaper, private and more flexible option but traveling with a hired driver is always much safer and comfortable. So, choose wisely when deciding between Africa self drive adventure and guided trip so you can get the best out of your trip.

Nestled in the northern end of Maputaland, lies Tembe Elephant Park, a unique community-run safari lodge co-owned and managed by the Tembe Tribal community.

A wooden “welcome” sign, beaming smiles, attention to detail and personal service fly the flag high for African hospitality.

In Tembe Elephant Park, the ‘Big Five’, the world’s biggest elephants and the friendly Thonga people welcome you!

Established in 1973, the park lies adjacent to Ndumo Game Reserve and is not far from the Mozambique border. The land is a confluence of tropical white sand, raphia palms, African bushveld and grasslands.

Tembe Elephant Park boasts a very diverse landscape, ranging from thick forest to open savanna plains. Not a metre of tar exists in the park, so it is only accessible for 4×4 vehicles ensuring a ‘genuine wild Africa experience’.

Renowned for its large African tuskers (elephants with giant tusks), sand forests and tiny Suni antelope, the park’s webcam videos had piqued our curiosity to find out more about this 30,000-hectare reserve. We were grateful that Tailor Made Safaris had included two nights on our customised itinerary in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa.

This is what Tembe is famous for: these are the three biggest tuskers that roamed the park in recent years, named Isilo, Nduna and Mkadebona. Although they have now died due to natural causes, there are other big tuskers still to be found in Tembe today.

We eagerly stretched our legs after the four and a half hour drive from Durban and were assured that our 4×4 could navigate the sandy road. Those with low lying vehicles parked safely within a fenced area near the gate, and were transported to the camp.

It was apparent that the staff held the arrival and departure of guests in high esteem and we felt like royalty as we were chaperoned up the path to our luxury tent. Neatly secluded and positioned privately from the other tents, our abode was a luxurious haven of privacy with a screened outdoor shower and veranda.

Accommodation in Tembe is in luxury safari tents, each privately set away in the sand forest with en-suite bathroom and outdoor shower.

Very soon we were in the canvas-topped game drive vehicle. A cold front had blown in and we were grateful for the warm rugs and jackets. With cheerful disposition our guide informed us that a pride of lion had a new litter of cubs and had been seen frequently in a certain area.

All members of the ‘Big five’ roam free in Tembe, as well as black rhino and the rare suni antelope.

We headed out to the plains and came across a lone elephant bull meandering across a marsh. Historic tales of the age-old ivory trail cropped up as I marvelled at the weight of the ivory tusks. Further along, on the open plain, a large herd of buffalo lay nestled with their backs to the breeze. A highlight on the night drive back to camp was seeing a owl tucked up on a tree branch.

On game drives you will, of course, find elephants, but also plenty of dung beetles which thrive on the copious amount of elephant dung everywhere. And if you’re really lucky, you may even see the African wild dog!

After dinner, the guests settled in comfortable camps chairs around the open-air fireplace. A myriad of stars twinkled beyond the tree tops and a low hum of African harmony swirled steadily closer. A Tembe choir group moved forward in rhythmic unison and enacted stories of Zulu legend through dance, song and mime. We were captivated. What colour, passion and commitment these young gentlemen expressed of their local tribe.

Tembe Safari Lodge itself is set in a natural environment, giving that lovely ‘sand between your toes’ feeling. In the evenings, a local choir can perform acapella songs and dances.

The next day, after the early morning game drive and breakfast, we made our way back to the tent. My husband is a keen birder and he settled himself on the veranda with bird book and binoculars. Tembe has over 300 species of birds and the surrounding bush certainly emanated a diverse chorus.

I, on the other hand, had decided to indulge in the luxury of an outdoor massage. With delicate and professional service, I was transported into a perfect realm of relaxation.

And should the excitement (or adrenaline!) get the most of you, why not relax by receiving a massage in the bush spa!

“Twinspot!” The exclamation roused me from my slumber as my husband enthused of the tiny bird hopping delicately in a thick bush next to our tent. A flock of crested guinea fowl comically nodded their heads in greeting as they passed by.

All too soon and the cycle of the following night and morning drive had passed. Yet, the warmth and hospitality experienced at Tembe made one feel that it was good to be in Africa!

All in all, Tembe Elephant Park is a must visit for anyone passing through KwaZulu-Natal!

Tembe Elephant Park is featured in Tailor Made Safaris ‘Best of the Elephant Coast Tour’. 

An African safari maybe a once-in-a-lifetime trip and should be on every traveler’s bucket list. Planning your safari can be an enjoyable experience, but there are many factors to consider when planning a safari, especially for first timers. Traveling to Africa is not as straight forward as visiting other parts of the world. Many places are remote with extensive driving routes and require logistical planning with flights and transfers. There are some of the things to help you plan a successful safari to Africa.

Choose your Destination

Like any other vacation, one of the most important parts of planning is deciding where to go. You see, Africa is huge. If you are clueless, your Google search bar would contain something like “where to go on a safari in Africa”

For you to be able to pick the perfect safari country for you, you need to know the wildlife you would want to explore.  If you are hankering to witness the Great Wildebeest Migration, Kenya and Tanzania around July to October is your best bet. For massive herds of African elephants all year round, go to South Africa or Botswana. The “Big Five” are also very abundant around East Africa and most countries in Southern Africa. For gorilla trekking, head on to Uganda, Rwanda and the Congo, all of which you can find in Central Africa. Uganda is also the best place to find chimpanzees if that interests you.

Identify your Preferences

Every traveler or group of travelers naturally have different wants and needs.

Most people who travel with kids or seniors would want to have fewer layovers as possible. So, make sure to check the travel routes available in your country of departure and have a list of your backup airlines, just in case. Also, younger kids and older adults might not want to go on a long Africa road trip. Tell your operator about this and they might arrange a special activity for them or maybe even delight them in a short safari drive. Childminders, or babysitters as popularly known in most countries, are also available upon request.

Another thing you might want to think about is diet. Do you have any special dietary restrictions? Perhaps a gluten-free or vegan diet? If so, you need to specify these with your travel operator so that the respective service providers can be informed.

Choosing you Travel Time

Countries get more crowded; prices get steeper and safaris get fully-booked faster during peak season. This is the opposite during the low season. Cheaper prices, fewer tourists and a relatively higher chance of booking your desired safari accommodation/tour/activity even with minimal lead time.

If you are aiming to see certain animals or witness a particular event, like the Great Migration around July to October, you also need to familiarize yourself with the seasons of your target country and the perfect time to see them. Game viewing is best during the drier and hotter seasons, although it is generally good in most parts of Africa all-year-round. For birding, it is known to be better during wetter months when nesting and breeding take place, and most migrant birds inhabit the area.

Although fairly flexible, each camp and safari tour have age restrictions. Some lodges and safaris don’t even accommodate children below 6 and have limitations for visitors aged 6-12. A number of them also offer childminders aka babysitters for an additional cost.

During heavy rains, many animals disperse and vegetation is lush thereby increasing the chance of an obstructed game viewing. Some roads can also become impassable or extremely muddy so gorilla trekking could be difficult, game drives limited and you wouldn’t possibly want a walking safari by then. Some lodges and camps could be closed, too. That’s why if you come around these months, you have to make sure your desired accommodation is open and available. Another issue with the rainy season is that excellent photo opportunities are rare

Set Your Budget

Setting a budget is not an easy task unless you have extra dollars in the bank. So, if you want to maximize your African experience and at the same time stay on budget, you need to set how much you are willing to spend for the safari alone. Flight costs aren’t inclusive so you also have to consider this one. Of course, fares vary depending on your place of departure and dates of travel. You can check the airlines ahead for an idea or if you’re lucky, you might even score a good deal.

A typical safari is usually all-inclusive for meals, activities, park entry fees where applicable, a tour guide in a language you choose, transportation and accommodation, except the last day of stay.

Based on your budget, you will find a wide array of options that will suit your liking from budget to mid-range to luxury safari trips. Of course, you can’t expect a shoestring budget to get you a luxurious one. But also, you can have enough money to afford a luxury level trip but not necessarily stay in luxury lodges. Instead, you might want to stay longer, visit more attractions or perhaps spend a day or two at the beach.

Besides, all tour operators offer the same destinations and animals. After all, there is only one Maasai Mara, Serengeti, Etosha Park, Volcanoes national park, Bwindi impenetrable national park etc. However, quality of service provided may differ.

Choose your Travel Provider

African safaris are famous for their stunning natural beauty — from the breathtaking landscapes of the Maasai Mara in Kenya to the fascinating wildlife in the Serengeti in Tanzania down to the bewitching beauty of South Africa, it is an adventure of a lifetime. However, many people find themselves trapped in an endless dilemma of which tour operator to go with.

You can save a lot of time from traveling from one place to another and spend more time at parks, reserves and other attractions. With a very experienced guide who is proficient in African history and culture, you will be able to learn more as you travel. Fun facts and background stories will be imparted in the most educational and entertaining ways.

Your utmost comfort and convenience are always guaranteed. Snacks and beverages are provided as well.

How early to Book your Trip?

Some would say that booking it a year early is most ideal. The truth of the matter is, your booking can be from a month to a year depending on the number of travelers, size of the lodge/camp and time of the year you plan to go. If you are going solo or as a couple, probably for an anniversary or a honeymoon, booking a year early is not necessary. One month or even a few weeks lead-time is usually enough unless you have your eyes fixed on a certain location, lodge, and dates, and you regard these specifics as non-negotiable.

Also, you have to note that the more time you have to prepare, the more prepared you’ll be in leveling expectations. However, there is also a downside to booking very early. A year is long and we don’t know what will happen within that period of time. But then again, if you are determined to avoid unnecessary disappointments and you already have your heart set on a certain date, event or lodge, book it as soon as you can.

If you are going as a group, booking as early as possible is wise because you may need several rooms. Safari lodges/camps have a limit to how many people they can cater to. For example, a luxury safari camp can only accommodate around 20 people. This is also the reason why the size of the lodge or camp matters in how far in advance you need to book. Another important detail you need to consider is the date of your visit. During peak seasons, you’ll be surprised how most accommodation is already at capacity about a year in advance.

Book Your Flights & Get Ready

Airfares vary depending on where you are traveling from when you are going to travel and if it is a direct flight or a connecting one. You may also want to consider your travel buddies. If you have kids in tow, you may not want to have a long layover. Also, if you are planning for a multi-country safari, you might want to check if flying to country A and out of country B is more economical than the other way around.

Some travelers prefer booking early (as early as one year in advance). This gives them the advantage of securing seats and accommodation on their desired dates plus it also gives them a significantly higher chance of scoring lower rates on airfare and possibly on other things, too.

In conclusion

It is therefore possible to build the perfect holiday for you based around your interests and requirements. You do not need to choose from a catalogue, or choose from a very limited number of safari options. You can travel for any duration of time, spend as long as you like on safari, be as active or adventurous as you choose, specify particular species you are keen on seeing, vary your accommodation options and combine a wildlife safari with a variety of other activities or attractions. If you are able to communicate your key interests and expectations to us, we can work with you to create your perfect safari experience.

Driving in East African national parks involves adhering to several special requirements to ensure both safety and environmental protection. Most parks require the purchase of entrance permits or fees, which may need to be arranged in advance. A 4×4 car rental is generally essential due to the challenging terrain, especially during the rainy season when roads can become muddy and impassable.

Some parks mandate the presence of a guide or park ranger for safety reasons, particularly in areas with abundant wildlife. It’s crucial to follow strict regulations such as speed limits and maintaining safe distances from animals, while also adhering to environmental guidelines to minimize your impact on the natural habitat. Understanding and complying with these requirements will help ensure a smooth and responsible driving experience in the region’s diverse and often rugged landscapes.

General Regulations

• Park Entry Rules
• Permits and Fees: Most East African national parks require a permit or entrance fee. These can usually be purchased at park gates or through online booking systems. Prices vary based on the park and nationality of the visitor. It’s essential to have proof of payment or a permit on hand.
• Park Gates: Entering and exiting the park is typically done through designated gates. Unauthorized entry or exit points are strictly prohibited to protect both visitors and wildlife.
  • Vehicle Requirements
• Type of Vehicle: Most parks in East Africa require a 4×4 vehicle, especially during the rainy season when roads can be muddy and challenging. A high-clearance vehicle is crucial for navigating rough terrain and river crossings.
• Condition of Vehicle: Ensure that your vehicle is in good condition, with a functional spare tire, jack, and tools for minor repairs. Some parks have mandatory vehicle checks at entry points.
• Driving Restrictions
• Speed Limits: Speed limits are strictly enforced within national parks to minimize wildlife accidents. Typical speed limits are around 40-50 km/h (25-30 mph), but they can vary by park.
• Night Driving: Most parks prohibit driving after dark to reduce the risk of accidents and disturbances to wildlife. Ensure you enter and exit the park during daylight hours.
  
• Specific Park Guidelines

Kenya

• Masai Mara National Reserve: Self-drive vehicles are not allowed inside the Masai Mara. Visitors must hire a safari vehicle with a driver-guide from authorized tour operators. This regulation helps manage the number of vehicles in the park and ensures that visitors have a knowledgeable guide.
• Amboseli National Park: Driving off-road is restricted to protect fragile ecosystems. Vehicles are required to stay on designated tracks. The park is known for its elephants, so be particularly cautious around them.
• Tsavo National Park: Tsavo’s vast size means that driving can be long and tiring. It’s crucial to plan your route and fuel stops carefully. Be prepared for both hot and cold temperatures.

Tanzania

• Serengeti National Park: Similar to Masai Mara, Serengeti has restrictions on off-road driving. Visitors must stick to designated routes, especially during the wildebeest migration season to avoid disturbing the herds.
• Ngorongoro Crater: The crater’s steep slopes and narrow roads require careful driving. Vehicles are not allowed to drive off-road within the crater floor to prevent erosion and protect wildlife.
• Tarangire National Park: Off-road driving is prohibited, but the park’s well-maintained tracks provide excellent wildlife viewing opportunities, particularly during the dry season when animals congregate around water sources.

Uganda

• Bwindi Impenetrable National Park: Known for gorilla trekking, the roads can be very rough. Only authorized vehicles are allowed to transport trekkers to the starting points. Ensure you have a reliable vehicle and a local guide.
• Queen Elizabeth National Park: Off-road driving is prohibited to protect the park’s delicate ecosystem. The park has well-marked roads that provide good wildlife viewing opportunities.
• Kidepo Valley National Park: This remote park requires careful planning. Roads can be rough and challenging, so a high-clearance 4×4 vehicle is essential.

Rwanda

• Volcanoes National Park: Known for mountain gorilla trekking, visitors must follow specific driving routes and guidelines provided by park authorities. Only authorized vehicles can transport trekkers.
• Akagera National Park: Off-road driving is restricted to protect the park’s wildlife and habitats. The park is well-managed, and roads are maintained for safe driving.

Safety and Environmental Concerns

• Wildlife Safety

• Avoiding Wildlife: Maintain a safe distance from all wildlife. Animals can be unpredictable, and approaching too closely can provoke defensive behaviour.
• Emergency Protocols: In case of an encounter with dangerous wildlife, remain calm and follow the instructions provided by park rangers or guides.

• Environmental Preservation

• Littering: Dispose of all waste in designated bins. Littering is strictly prohibited and can harm both wildlife and the environment.
• Driving Etiquette: Stick to marked roads and tracks. Off-road driving can lead to soil erosion and damage to vegetation. Respect Park boundaries and follow all posted signs.

Legal and Insurance Considerations

• Insurance

• Travel Insurance: Ensure your travel insurance covers vehicle damage and medical emergencies. Driving in remote areas can pose additional risks.
• Vehicle Insurance: Verify that your vehicle insurance covers off-road driving and potential damage within national parks. Some parks may have specific insurance requirements.

• Legal Requirements

• Driver’s License: Carry an international driver’s license if required. Some parks may require proof of a valid driving license.
• Documentation: Always have your vehicle registration, insurance documents, and park permits with you while driving in national parks.

Practical Tips

Navigation and Communication

• • Maps and GPS: Use up-to-date maps and GPS for navigation. Park boundaries and road conditions can change, so having the latest information is crucial.
  • Emergency Contacts: Keep a list of emergency contacts, including park rangers and local authorities. Ensure you have a reliable means of communication, such as a mobile phone with good network coverage or a satellite phone in remote areas.

Vehicle Preparation

Fuel: Fuel stations can be scarce in some areas. Plan your fuel stops in advance and keep your tank full, especially before heading into remote parks.

Equipment: Carry essential equipment such as a first-aid kit, extra food and water, and tools for minor repairs.

Cultural Sensitivity

Respect Local Communities: Many parks are located near local communities. Respect cultural practices and traditions, and seek permission before taking photographs of people.

Recent Changes and Updates

Kenya

• Policy Changes: Recent updates include stricter regulations on off-road driving and increased fees for park entry to support conservation efforts.

Tanzania

• Vehicle Restrictions: New rules may limit the types of vehicles allowed in certain parks to reduce environmental impact. Check the latest regulations before your visit.

Uganda

• Road Conditions: Improvements in road conditions and new regulations on vehicle permits have been implemented to enhance visitor experience and safety.

Rwanda

• Conservation Efforts: Increased emphasis on conservation has led to stricter driving guidelines and updated fees to support wildlife protection.

In conclusion, driving in East African national parks requires careful preparation and adherence to specific regulations to ensure a safe and respectful experience. By securing the necessary permits, using a suitable 4×4 vehicle, and following park rules regarding wildlife and environmental impact, you contribute to both your own safety and the conservation efforts of these unique landscapes. Being well-informed about these requirements not only enhances your journey but also helps preserve the natural beauty and biodiversity of the parks for future generations.