Why now

We live in a world preoccupied with work and all experience the stresses of day to day living. We also live in a world becoming increasingly polluted and our light, air and water are more and more spoiled. We are also increasingly subjected to unwanted noise and see our environment littered with rubbish of all kinds.

The East African Parks in particular, but also the other parks we have covered are all very unique wilderness areas. Sadly they are also all changing for a number of reasons, but it is still possible to spend time in these as yet unpolluted areas and get in touch with the natural world and the magnificent animals and birds that they have to offer. Experiencing this still unique environment is something that we all need to do. We owe it to ourselves and our families to get away from the complexities of every day life and experience this aspect of Africa.

To see nature in the raw is something that most people never get to do. It really is an uplifting experience.

Just visiting these magnificent and wonderful parks is the most significant way in which one can assist in maintaining these unique areas, and the rewards to the visitor are immense.

Plan and Research

If you’re planning a trip, do your homework. Find out as much as you can about the places you want to visit, and when it is a good time to go. Africa has many worthwhile places to visit, but you do need to be sure you are going to be there at the best time of year or, alternatively, how to make the most of the time you can be there.

You do want to be as sure as possible that you will be looked after and that you will be able to get as much as possible out of your Safari. Try to go on a customised Safari arranged for a specific event, and consider going with some friends.

Going with someone who has taken people before is so much better, of course. They will have established when it is best to go, what is likely to be seen and where. Speak to people who have been, or ask for reviews. 'Word of mouth' is still the best way to research something like this.

Reliability of facilitator

In almost all cases in East Africa you will be relying on a local company to make the local bookings, provide vehicles, transfers, guides, and to pay all Park fees and other local costs. Safaris generally cover large distances in remote areas and one needs to be as sure as one can be that the vehicles are well maintained and well driven, and that you are going to be well cared for. A failure in any of these aspects can be devastating. You do need to have local Guides who are going to work for you rather than against you. There are some really good companies out there - you just have to find them. There is no shortage of choice but you need to get a good one. Once again, use the local media or, best of all, find someone who has been there already and has experienced such a Safari.

Value for money

Choosing accommodation is another important factor and the choice is substantial, ranging from the most basic to the ultimate in five star luxury, generally priced accordingly. When making your bookings you need to specify exactly what type of accommodation you are looking for. In line with the price of accommodation, there are organised Safari's catering for all sectors of the market. Again, if you can find someone who has been there and knows which type of accommodation is good value for money, it does really help to avoid any pitfalls.

Local knowledge

In Eastern [and Southern] Africa, there are many worthwhile locations to visit but a number of these are best visited at different times of year. It is important to locate a reputable advisor who will be able to guide you. There are a number of Parks throughout the region, but some of them are really only worth visiting at particular times of the year.

Some general tips

• See a 'Travel Doctor' before setting out on a trip of this nature to check health requirements.
• Clothing - it important to find out what is suitable, as well as the daytime and night time temperatures you might experience.
• Any special food requirements need to be taken care of.
• Any other special needs also need to be accommodated.
• Talk to someone who has been to the area or on the trip you are planning.

In conclusion

Travel to East Africa is a reasonably costly experience but the wildlife experience is unparalleled and unforgettable.

If your safari has been properly organized and smoothly run, you will return home with extraordinary images and memories. You will find yourself reflecting, perhaps, on how lucky you have been to have spent time in this amazing part of Africa. Hopefully you will also have left behind some people whose company you have enjoyed, some amazing experiences and your footprints. Most importantly, your visit will have helped to maintain what you have enjoyed, and you may be encouraged to return again, and again.