For solo travellers, the advantage of staying loyal to one company will often be single-supplement waivers.
Park ranger watching hippos in the Akagera national parkGetty Images
Take a deeper dive into one safari destination
Staying longer in a destination instead of transferring to a new property every two or three days can also help save on expensive inter-camp travel (bonus, it’s also a more sustainable way to travel, lightening your carbon footprint). As lovely as a safari and beach break sounds, the more transfers and flights involved in your itinerary, the higher the cost will be.
“Staying in one country or region can soften the sticker shock. For example, I will sometimes keep clients in Kenya for an entire trip, starting in Nairobi, then moving on to a few nights in Northern Kenya, a few nights in the Mara, and ending at Diani Beach for some downtime before the flight home. Guests get to experience different landscapes, wildlife sightings and cultural interactions without long flights and complicated logistics,” says Figueiredo.
Don’t avoid all-inclusive
On safari, the advantages of an all-inclusive package add up to genuine value for money. At face value rates at safari camps and lodges can seem expensive, but there are no hidden costs or extras. Accommodation, generous meals, most drinks, those all-important game drives and other activities, like walks, are included.
Consider splurging when it’s worth it
It’s worth spending extra if the tradeoff is a luxury of space, exclusivity at animal sightings, and more privacy in camp. Paying more for exclusive access to a privately protected area, like a private game reserve, is worth it, especially if you can only travel at peak times. Vehicle numbers are limited, so you’ll see fewer people and have more animal sightings to yourself. There are often more activities on offer, too, such as night drives and walking safaris (activities that are restricted at camps located in national parks). Ask about the ratio of beds to hectares within the conservation area you’re visiting, and the number of guests sharing a vehicle.
