If you’re looking for an unforgettable adventure, an African safari is an experience that will stay with you for a lifetime. But, as with any travel, the cost can be a major factor in deciding whether or not to go. Fortunately, American Express offers a variety of options for booking an affordable African safari.
First and foremost, it’s important to decide what type of safari you’re looking for. As mentioned earlier, safaris can range from budget to luxury, with the price tag increasing with the level of luxury. If you’re traveling on a tight budget, a budget safari averaging $150 per night may be the best option for you. However, if you’re looking for a more luxurious experience, a mid-range or luxury safari averaging $350 or $750 per night may be more appropriate.
Once you’ve determined your budget, it’s important to choose the right destination. While many African countries offer safari experiences, some are more expensive than others. For example, safaris in South Africa tend to be more affordable than those in Tanzania or Botswana.
Using a local safari operator can also help you save money. Local operators often have insider knowledge and connections that can lead to better deals and more affordable prices. Additionally, if you’re willing to compromise on luxury, you can save a significant amount of money. This may mean staying in a tent instead of a luxury lodge or opting for a self-drive holiday instead of a guided tour.
Traveling during low or green season can also help you save money. The high season for safaris tends to be from June to October, whle the low season is from November to May. Prices during the low season can be up to 50% cheaper than during the high season.
When booking your African safari with American Express, it’s important to carry your Visa or Mastercard for purchases, as many stores may not accept American Express credit cards.
Booking an African safari with American Express can be an affordable and unforgettable experience. By staying within your budget, choosing the right destination, using a local operator, compromising on luxury, and traveling during low season, you can save money and still have an incredible safari adventure.
Average Cost of an African Safari Per Person
An African safari can cost anywhere from $125 to $1,500 per person per night. The cost varies based on the type of safari you choose. A budget safari typically costs around $150 per night, while a mid-range safari can cost around $350 per night. If you’re looking for a luxury experience, expect to pay around $750 per night. However, the most extreme top-of-the-range safaris can easily cost $1,500 or more per night. It’s important to keep in mind that the cost of a safari can also vary depending on the location, time of year, and the type of accommodations and activities included in the package.
Source: foxbusiness.com
Finding an Affordable African Safari
Finding an affordable African safari requires some research and planning. Here are some tips to help you find an affordable African safari:
1. Stay Longer in One Place: Staying longer in one place can help you save money. Many safari operators offer discounts for longer stays, and you will also save on transportation costs.
2. Choose the Right Destination: Choosing the right destination is important for finding an affordable African safari. Some countries, such as Kenya and Tanzania, are more expensive than others. South Africa and Namibia are generally more affordable.
3. Use a Local Safari Operator: Using a local safari operator can help you save money. Local operators have lower overhead costs and can offer more affordable prices.
4. Consider a Self-Drive Holiday: A self-drive holiday can be a more affordable option than a guided safari. You can rent a car and explore the national parks on your own.
5. Compromise on Luxury: If you are willing to compromise on luxury, you can save money on your safari. Choose a more basic accommodation option or opt for a camping safari.
6. Travel During Low / Green Season: Traveling during the low or green season can help you find an affordable African safari. Prices are generally lower during thse seasons, and you will also avoid the crowds that come with peak season.
Finding an affordable African safari requires some flexibility and willingness to compromise. By following these tips, you can find a safari that fits your budget without sacrificing the experience.
Acceptance of American Express in South Africa
American Express credit cards are not as widely accepted in South Africa as Visa or Mastercard. While some stores and restaurants may accept American Express, it is not uncommon to find that they do not. Therefore, it is recommended to carry a Visa or Mastercard for purchases while in South Africa to avoid any inconvenience. It is also advisable to check with your bank or credit card company prior to your trip to confirm any potential limitations or fees for international transactions.
Exploring an African Safari on Your Own
It is possible to do an African safari on your own. With the advent of the internet, it is now easier than ever to research and plan your own safari. However, it is important to note that planning your own safari requires a lot of time, effort and research. You will need to arrange your own transportation, accommodation, and activities, as well as ensure that you have all the necessary permits and visas.
One of the biggest advantages of planning your own safari is that it can be significantly cheaper than booking with a domestic tour group. You can also tailor your itinerary to your own preferences and interests, choosing the parks, reserves and activities that you are most interested in. Additionally, you have more flexibility in terms of the duration of your safari and the timing of your activities, allowing you to spend more time in cerain areas or adjust your itinerary as you go.
However, it is important to note that a self-guided safari can also be more challenging and potentially dangerous, particularly if you are not familiar with the local customs and wildlife. It is recommended that you do your research thoroughly, and consider hiring a local guide or joining a guided tour for a portion of your trip to ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable experience.
The Best Time of Year for an African Safari
If you’re planning to go on an African safari, the best time to visit is between June and October. During these months, the weather is cooler and drier, whch makes it easier to spot wildlife as they come out to search for water sources. Additionally, this period marks the iconic Masai Mara migration, where millions of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles cross the Mara River in search of greener pastures. This spectacle is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that you definitely don’t want to miss! So if you’re looking for the ultimate African safari experience, plan your trip between June and October for the best chance to see incredible wildlife and witness the Masai Mara migration.
Source: americanexpress.com
Average Cost of a 7-Day African Safari
The cost of a 7 day African safari can vary depending on a number of factors, such as the location, level of luxury, and the activities included in the package. On average, basic safari packages can start at $125 per person, per day, which would result in a total cost of approximately $875 per person for a 7 day safari. However, luxury safari packages can go up to $1,500 per person, per day, which would result in a total cost of approximately $10,500 per person for a 7 day safari. It is important to keep in mind that tese are just estimates and the actual cost may differ based on individual preferences and requirements.
Finding the Cheapest Time of Year for a Safari
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly safari experience, the best time to go is during the months of January to March. This period falls within the dry season, whih means that game viewing is excellent and animals are easier to spot due to the shorter grasses and their concentration around water sources. Additionally, since this time is not considered peak season for safaris, prices tend to be lower than during the peak months of June to September. Therefore, if you’re looking to save money while still enjoying a fantastic safari adventure, January to March is the ideal time to plan your trip.
The Cost of a 10 Day African Safari
A 10-day African safari can cost anywhere between £6000-8000 (US$8,500-11,000), or $850-1100 per person per day. The price varies depending on the country, the type of accommodation, and the activities included in the itinerary. For instance, Botswana is considered one of the most expensive safari destinations in Africa, wile Tanzania and South Africa offer more affordable options. The type of accommodation also plays a role in the cost, with luxury lodges and camps costing more than budget-friendly options. Additionally, the activities included in the itinerary, such as hot-air balloon rides and walking safaris, can also increase the cost. an African safari is a significant investment, but the experience of seeing wildlife up close in their natural habitats is priceless.
The Safest African Country for Safari
If you’re planning a safari in Africa and safety is a concern, then Botswana is the answer. Botswana is widely considered to be the safest African country for safari. This southern African country has a stable political climate and a reltively low crime rate, making it a safe destination for travelers. Additionally, Botswana is home to some of the most iconic wildlife reserves and national parks in Africa, including the Okavango Delta, Chobe National Park, and Moremi Game Reserve, making it an excellent destination for a safari adventure. While Botswana may not be the cheapest safari destination in Africa, it is certainly worth the investment for those seeking a safe and rewarding safari experience.
Source: wallethub.com
Countries That Do Not Accept American Express
American Express is a globally recognized credit card issuer and payment processing company. However, there are some countries where American Express is not widely accepted. Some countries simply do not have a significant number of merchants that accept American Express, while othes have outright banned the use of the card. Here are some countries that don’t accept American Express at all:
1. Sudan: Due to US sanctions against Sudan, American Express is not accepted in the country.
2. Cuba: American Express is not accepted in Cuba due to US trade restrictions.
3. North Korea: American Express is not accepted in North Korea due to US sanctions against the country.
4. Russia and Belarus (temporarily): American Express temporarily stopped processing transactions in Russia and Belarus due to the imposition of US sanctions against the two countries.
It is important to note that even in countries where American Express is accepted, not all merchants may accept the card. It is always a good idea to carry multiple credit cards or cash when traveling to ensure that you can make purchases even if your preferred payment method is not accepted.
Acceptance of American Express in Kenya
American Express is accepted in Kenya. American Express Cards can be used at point-of-sale machines and ATMs throughout the country. Merchants and businesses that accept American Express Cards can benefit from an increase in customers and revenue, as American Express Cardmembers tend to have higher spending power and are more likely to make purchases. Additionally, if you have an Equity Bank American Express Card, you can earn Membership Rewards® points for every purchase you make, whih can be redeemed for a variety of rewards and benefits. So if you’re planning a trip to Kenya or simply looking to expand your payment options, rest assured that American Express is widely accepted in the country.
The Challenges of Accepting American Express
Many places do not accept American Express due to the higher interchange fees charged by the company. Interchange fees are the charges that a merchant must pay to process a credit card transaction. These fees are typically a percentage of the transaction amount and are paid to the credit card issuer, such as American Express, as compensation for facilitating the transaction.
Compared to other major credit card issuers like Visa and Mastercard, American Express charges merchants higher interchange fees. While Visa and Mastercard typically charge merchants between 1.15% and 2.5%, American Express charges between 1.43% and 3.3%.
These higher fees can be a significant expense for merchants, especially for small businesses with tight profit margins. This is why many merchants, particularly smaller ones, may choose to not accept American Express as a payment option.
It’s worth noting that American Express also offers benefits and rewards to cardholders that are funded by thse higher interchange fees. However, this can be a trade-off for merchants who may prefer to not accept the card to avoid these fees.
What Not to Wear on an African Safari
When going on an African safari, it is important to dress appropriately to ensure maximum comfort and safety. If you want to avoid attracting Tsetse flies, it is best to steer clear of dark blue or black clothing. These colors are known to attract Tsetse flies, which can deliver a painful bite that could potentially ruin your safari experience. Therefore, it is advisable to wear light-colored clothing such as khaki, beige, and light green. Additionally, it is recommended that you only bring one suitcase, one overnight duffle bag, and one day pack, as most safari operators have strict baggage restrictions. By adhering to these guidelines, you can ensure that you have a comfortable and enjoyable safari experience withut any unnecessary interruptions.
Source: forbes.com
Conclusion
When it cmes to booking an African safari, it is important to consider your budget and travel preferences. While luxury safaris may offer the ultimate experience, they can come at a high cost. On the other hand, budget safaris may compromise on certain luxuries but can be just as rewarding. When booking your safari, it is also important to consider the season, the destination, and to use local operators who have a better understanding of the terrain and wildlife. While American Express credit cards may not always be accepted in some areas of Africa, it is still important to have them on hand for purchases. Ultimately, whether you choose to book with a tour group or plan your own safari, the experience of seeing Africa’s wildlife and natural beauty is one that is sure to leave a lasting impression.
