What safari is right for me?

When you finally decide to take that African safari, the first question that usually comes to mind is: how do I decide what is the right safari for me? With so many different types of safaris and thousands of camps, lodges and game areas to chose from, how do you determine what safari best fits your needs and goals? The process is actually easier than many travelers think, and we've developed a few simple questions to help match our safari-goers decide what trip is right for them.

Before you begin planning your safari, sit down with your family or fellow travelers down and answer the following questions:

1) What do we want to experience on this trip - wildlife, culture, adventure, luxury? Some of those things? All of them?

2) What type of accommodations do we want to stay in - mobile or fly-camping, lodges, tented camps or luxury villas?

3) Do we want to be more active or do most of our wildlife viewing from a vehicle, versus on foot or in a canoe or boat?

4) Do we want to travel with a small group of like-minded travelers, or do we want to be on our own with a guide?

5) What time of year can we travel?

6) What is our budget?

Some travelers are looking for a truly wild experience and they are willing to push the limits of creature comforts to experience something few others get to. For true adventurers, climbing Kilimanjaro or fly-camping in remote regions can be a dream come true. Tracking mountain gorillas or wild chimpanzees can be one of the most unique and rewarding experiences in Africa.

Other travelers are looking for luxury and a truly intimate experience. There are many camps throughout East and Southern Africa that offer the highest levels of service to a handful of guests each night. While on a luxury safari in Africa, you can enjoy private game drives, spa treatments, private meals in the bush, chartered aircraft and even your own personal tent attendant!

Families have different priorities from other travelers. If you have young children, you might be looking for a family safari that features lodges with a kid's program and swimming pool. With teens, you might want to head out on a walking safari or kayak pristine waters. Guides are always a key player in a successful family safari--an excellent guide will keep children interested and engage adults.

Finally, Africa is arguably one of the most romantic destinations in the world. From wine tasting and spa treatments, to sleeping under the stars and relaxing on the beach, Africa has something for every honeymoon couple or romantic getaway. Personalize your honeymoon in Africa to fit your interests and budget.