The 6 Things You Must Consider When Selecting A Safari Lodge
Speaking from experience, the lodge you pick for your African safari can have a huge impact on your trip.
With so many lodges scattered across Africa, it can be difficult to choose the perfect one.
If you’ve never been on a safari before, now is the time to start planning! And if you’re planning one, here’s what you should keep in mind when selecting a safari lodge:
The Cost
First, you need to work out your budget – Like with most things, you generally get what you pay for.
With budget-friendly lodges, you need to be cautious. Cheaper places may not offer all-inclusive deals, which can lead to unexpected costs for activities and drinks.
Additionally, some of the more budget-conscious choices can be crowded. Whether it’s the lodge itself or the game drives, it’s worth checking how many guests they accommodate. If the lodge’s website specifies group sizes for game drives, that’s a positive sign.
Luxury safari lodges are nothing short of extraordinary. Staying at high-end spots that charge upwards of $1,000 per night should be a high class experience. That said, there are good safari options at a more affordable price.
Wildlife Viewing
When you think of an African safari, the “Big Five” – lion, leopard, elephant, rhinoceros, and buffalo – are top of most people’s list, and for good reason.
Most lodges will state clearly on their websites if they host the “Big Five”. Staying near a river can also enhance your wildlife experience, as these natural features tend to attract a wide variety of animals.
The Aesthetic
Everyone has their own style when it comes to lodge aesthetics. Some prefer a simple, rustic setting, while others opt for something more luxurious.
When browsing through photos online, pay close attention to the main lodge area, as you’ll likely spend most of your time there – It might not be a dealbreaker, but it can make your stay more pleasant if it matches your vibe.
Keep in mind that some places don’t provide Wi-Fi, or even electricity in the rooms. As a result, the communal areas of the lodge often become the main hub for meals, drinks, and relaxation.
The Accommodation
Your budget plays a role here, too. If you’re only staying for a short time and plan to be out on game drives most of the day, it might not make sense to splash out on ultra-luxurious accommodation.
There’s a range of safari accommodations to generally choose from, so it really comes down to your personal preferences.
For example, are you comfortable sleeping in a tent? How do you feel about an outdoor shower? I personally don’t mind being outdoors, but it’s not for everyone – It depends on what you’re looking for in your experience.
Make sure you know how you’ll be living in your lodge, and make sure you’re happy with that over the duration of your trip.
The Service
The internet makes it easy to know what level of service to expect from lodges. I always read reviews of previous guests, whether that be on review websites, or travel blogs.
In my experience, the service at safari lodges tends to be very good, they often provide a VIP experience, ensuring each guest feels truly special, but I usually know it’s going to be like that ahead of going, because I’ve done my research.
I’d urge you to check reviews before deciding on your lodge. You don’t want your once-in-a-lifetime safari trip ruined by poor service.
Conservation Efforts
An African safari has a way of reconnecting you with the natural beauty of the world, and it serves as a reminder of our responsibility to protect it.
The importance of conservation can’t be understated, and lodges have to do their bit.
Have a look into their conservation initiatives. If they aren’t actively contributing to preserving the environment, there’s a chance they could be doing more harm than good.
