safari help

Hello,
I would like to visit Masai Mara park with my family at the end of September. My husband and I did this about 15 years ago and booked a simple camping safari in Nairobi which was much cheaper than booking ahead. However, as this time we will be traveling with our two kids I'm a little hesitant. Also, we won't have much time. Can anyone give me some advice as to how fast/easy it is to book once you are there? Is the savings signifiant?

Thanks so much!

Surprisingly, perhaps, the best savings are to book with an established tour operator with a good reputation and deep discounts. They will normally be cheaper than booking direct. You certainly don't want to wait until you arrive, as some places will be full. Unless you don't mind where you stay and you're on a low budget, in which case there will always be something and you could book the day before departure.

Good luck, and have a great trip whatever you decide to do!

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As Richard says, most of the places will already be filled up. Plan and book your safari early, you wouldn't want to have your kids in take your kids in not so good accommodations without basic amenities. You should choose child friendly lodges as the kids will not find full-day game drives interesting, there must be activities that they can engage in.

In terms of savings when you book once there, it might not be possible as you will take what will be available then and at the tour operators terms, and most likely more than you would pay now. You have time now to shop and get what you want exactly and at a fair bargain.
You might start by emailing a few tour operators for the quotes and availability. Cheli & peacock, chelipeacock.com and Swift Travel, www.swiftsafari.com being my personal favorites.

Sharon

I think it depends a bit on what time of the year you're thinking of going and what type of properties you want to stay in. If you want to come during the high season, then it's definitely worthwhile to book ahead as your first choice camps may be booked and the best deals may be gone. In the low season, it would be fairly straight forward to book last minute. Although, for a lot of camps, if you book somewhat last minute, usually around one month before arrival, you could score some discounts. Some camps advertise this directly on their website (i.e. Asilia properties) and others will be fairly generous if you email them directly. I had friends come to visit and we booked everything a few weeks in advance. While many camps/lodges didn't offer any discounts, there were a handful that offered them significant discounts off the advertised price. However, even if you get a good deal from a lodge/camp, you will still have to organize getting to the camp, so either you will have to fly, self-drive, or find a tour company that will provide you with transport to the parks.

If you're looking for a tour operator that will organize everything for you (transport and lodging), then I don't think it will make much of a difference when you book. If this is the option you're looking for, I would just recommend contacting many different agencies and see what they can offer you. As Sharon mentioned, Chil & Peacock is amazing, but they also use very expensive camps and lodges. If you're looking for something a bit more budget or mid-range, I would recommend bonfire adventures or African Eden.

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