African safari planning is a lot easier when you can compare destinations, camps, operators, and practical details all in one place.
African Safari Journals brings together traveller trip reports, plus planning guides and “best of” shortcuts to help you choose confidently and avoid expensive mistakes.
Use the sections below to jump straight to what you’re figuring out right now — where to go, where to stay, which company to use, what to pack and how to take better wildlife photographs and videos.
About This Website (And Me)
I've been on 150+ safaris (including self drives) for over 45 years now, read through thousands of trip reports, and been involved in some part of the safari industry for over two decades to build this resource.
My goal is simple: help you sort through the noise and plan a safari you’ll genuinely love.
Explore The Main Topics
1) Where And When To Go
Not sure which country or park fits your budget and “must-see” wildlife? Start here for destination ideas, seasonal highlights, and the best safari styles for different goals.
2) Where To Stay
Lodges, tented camps, mobile camps, resorts, self-catering, park rest camps — choose the right comfort level and location so your days on safari actually match what you’re imagining.
3) Which Company (Operators & Tour Providers)
Find reputable operators, compare what they include, and learn what to ask before you pay a deposit — especially if you’re juggling multiple quotes and itineraries.
4) Safari Reviews (Trip Reports By Country)
Read first-hand safari experiences from past travellers — what they saw, where they stayed, how the guiding was, what surprised them, and what they’d do differently next time.
Tanzania / Kenya / South Africa / Namibia / Botswana / Zambia / Uganda / Rwanda / Zimbabwe / Swaziland
5) Packing & Clothing
Exactly what to pack, what to wear, and what people wish they’d brought (or left at home). Practical, field-tested, and easy to copy.
Packing List / Best Safari Clothing
6) Wildlife Photography
Take better safari photos with the camera/phone you already have — plus simple ways to handle motion, low light, and long distances.
NEXT STEP (ONE CLEAR PLACE TO START)
If you’re not sure where to begin, start with: Where and When to Go — it’ll make every other decision (operators, camps, budgets, packing) much simpler.


