FAQs

1. Why book with Made in Africa Tours and Safaris?

We are a boutique team of safari specialists with first-hand knowledge across Southern Africa. We design trips that fit you, not a template. You get honest advice, careful planning, and support before and during travel so you can relax and enjoy the experience.

2. What happens after I submit an enquiry?

We review your dates, group size and the kind of experience you want. If we need to refine a detail or two, we will ask a couple of quick questions. Then we share tailored itinerary options, explain the trade-offs (season, routing, style, budget) and guide you through next steps. There is no obligation to book.

3. What countries do you specialise in?

We design bespoke safaris across Southern Africa including Botswana, Namibia, South Africa, Zimbabwe, Zambia and Mozambique. We also plan multi-country trips, for example combining the Okavango Delta, Victoria Falls and Cape Town.

4. What does a luxury safari in Southern Africa typically cost?

It depends on destination, season, lodge level, routing, and whether you include charter flights. As a general guide, luxury safaris often start from around USD 1,200 to USD 1,800 per person per night, with exclusive camps and private guiding at the higher end. We will be transparent about what is realistic for your dates and what will make the biggest difference to your experience.

5. How far in advance should I book?

For peak season (June to October) we recommend 9 to 12 months in advance, especially for high-demand areas like the Okavango Delta and Sossusvlei. Shoulder season travel can sometimes be arranged with less notice depending on availability.

6. What level of accommodation do you offer?

We specialise in high-end lodges, private camps and exclusive-use villas in exceptional wildlife areas. We recommend properties based on guiding quality, service, style, and location, from remote tented camps to private villas and island escapes.

7. Have you personally visited the lodges you recommend?

Yes. Our recommendations are based on first-hand experience and ongoing feedback from trusted partners. This helps us match guests to the right camps for the season, the wildlife experience, and the pace you want.

8. How do you choose which lodges to recommend?

We look at location, guiding, consistency of service, privacy, and the overall feel. We do not try to sell every lodge available. We focus on places we trust to deliver an exceptional experience for the right traveller.

9. When is the best time to go on safari in Southern Africa?

It depends on where you are going and what you want to see.

• May to October (dry season) is excellent for game viewing in Botswana, Zambia and Zimbabwe.

• November to March is greener, quieter in many areas, and ideal for birding, and it can be wonderful for photography depending on region.
  We will advise based on your priorities and how seasonal patterns affect each destination.

10. How long should a first safari be?

Most first-time travellers enjoy a minimum of 7 to 10 nights on safari. This gives you time to settle into the rhythm, see different landscapes, and avoid rushing between camps. If you want to add Cape Town or the Winelands, we usually recommend adding three to five nights.

11. Can I customise my itinerary?

Yes. Every trip is tailor-made around your dates, interests, group size, preferred style, and budget. We will suggest the best routing and the right mix of camps, and we will adjust until it feels right.

12. What is the difference between a fly-in safari and a road safari?

A fly-in safari uses light aircraft and typically gives you access to remote camps with minimal travel time. A road safari involves longer transfers and can suit certain regions well, especially where distances are manageable and scenery is part of the appeal. We recommend what fits your itinerary, comfort preferences, and timing.

13. Can you help with flights and logistics?

Yes. We can arrange international and regional flights, charter transfers, meet-and-greet services, and all lodge coordination. We also help with practical details like luggage limits for light aircraft, transfer timing, and contingency planning.

14. Do you offer privately guided or hosted safaris?

Yes. We can arrange private guiding with expert local guides, or hosted safaris with a dedicated safari professional accompanying you throughout. This works well for families, small groups, and travellers who want a seamless experience with added insight.

15. Do you arrange family safaris or honeymoons?

Yes. We plan family safaris, honeymoons, and milestone trips. We recommend lodges with the right setup for your group, whether that is family suites, flexible activities, and private vehicles, or more secluded camps designed for romance and privacy.

16. Is it possible to combine safari and beach in one trip?

Yes. A popular combination is safari followed by a beach stay in Mozambique, or a mix that includes Cape Town and the Winelands. The key is routing and seasonality, and we will advise on the combinations that work well without wasting time in transit.

17. Is it safe to travel in Southern Africa?

Yes. The areas we use are well established for tourism with strong operational standards. We work with reputable partners and provide pre-departure guidance, and we are available if you need support during travel.

18. Do I need travel insurance or vaccinations?

We strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance. Some areas are malaria zones, so malaria prophylaxis may be advised. We provide destination-specific guidance based on your itinerary and season.

19. Do you offer support while we are travelling?

Yes. We provide support throughout your journey and we can assist with changes, disruptions, or anything unexpected. You will have clear contact details and a plan for who to reach if you need help.