It depends on the destination and what you want to see. In East Africa, the dry season (June to October) offers the best game viewing, including the Great Migration river crossings. In Southern Africa, May to September is dry, so animals gather around waterholes. The green season (November to April) brings lower prices, fewer crowds, newborn animals and excellent birdwatching.

Prices vary widely by country, season, accommodation and group size. Budget camping safaris start at roughly $150 to $250 per person per day, mid-range lodges and tented camps typically cost $300 to $600, and luxury safaris can exceed $1,000 per person per day. Most packages include accommodation, meals, park fees, game drives and a guide. International flights, visas, tips and travel insurance are usually extra.

Yes, when you travel with a reputable operator and experienced guides. Guides are trained to read animal behavior and keep a safe distance, and safari vehicles and camps are designed with safety in mind. The main rules are to stay inside the vehicle unless your guide says otherwise, never approach wildlife on foot alone, and follow camp safety instructions, especially at night.

Requirements depend on the country you visit and where you’re traveling from. Many safari regions are malaria-risk areas, so anti-malarial medication is often recommended. Some countries also require proof of yellow fever vaccination, depending on your travel history. Consult a travel health clinic 6 to 8 weeks before departure, and check each country’s current entry requirements.

Pack lightweight, neutral-colored clothing in khaki, olive or beige, since bright colors and dark blue or black can attract insects like tsetse flies. Bring layers for cool early mornings, a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, insect repellent, comfortable closed shoes, binoculars and a camera with a zoom lens. Many safari flights have soft-bag luggage limits, so pack light.